I have been asked several times on how to decide whether to book in advance or wait for a deal in the last minute. The answer mostly depends on how flexible you are, how often the particular cruise you want takes place, and how popular it is. Here are some tips on deciding when to go after a last minute deal
Do you need your cabin to be in a specific location?
The longer you wait to book your cruise, the less control you will have on deciding where your cabin is located. Usually, most of the cabins available when booking a last minute cruise are guaranteed cabins. This means, they guarantee the type of room you request or better but you cannot choose the specific room or location, they pick it. So if you tend to get seasick and need a centrally located cabin, then book in advance when you still have a good selection on rooms to choose from. But if you don't mind where your room is, you will have a much better chance in getting a good last minute deal.
Do you need a specific type of room?
When you book a guaranteed room, you may end up with a different type that you requested. For example, you book a guaranteed inside cabin. When the rooms are assigned and there isn't an inside room available, they will put you in an oceanview or, if you're lucky, in a cabin with a balcony. This may be a good thing since they always do the same or better than you booked, never worse. But if you're set on a type, this may not be good for you. Also, keep in mind that some types of cabins sell better on some cruises than others. For example, it is not difficult to grab a good last minute deal on an Alaskan cruise unless you want a balcony or a suite. Balconies are very popular due to the spectacular views and abundance of wildlife sightings you experience on an Alaskan cruise. These sell out first and have the least of being drastically cut in price.
Is the cruise you want common?
If you find that the cruise you want is offered on several other dates you will have a better chance of getting a good last minute cruise deal. You will also have a better chance if other cruise lines are offering a similar cruise at similar dates. Good cruises to try for a last minute deal are the ones in the Caribbean, Mexico, and Alaska. Exceptions to these are cruises that take place during a holiday since less people have to work or go to school during these days.
How flexible are you?
If you can easily change your plans to go in a later week, you will have a better chance at getting a deal. Of course, this is easier if you are not restricted by work and if you live close to where the cruise is leaving from so you don't have to look for a last minute flight. If you live too far to drive to port or take a train, sometimes the cost of a last minute flight outweighs the savings of a last minute cruise. So being able to change your date to be able to get a good price on your cruise and your flight is a big help.
Lizette Bartell
For more cruise planning advice: [http://www.longingforacruise.com]
For my free report on how to plan your best cruise go to: [http://www.planyourbestcruise.com]
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Lizette_A_Bartell
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/6660118
No comments:
Post a Comment