For most of us, it is a little satisfying that a European cruise booked in dollars is frequently less expensive than a land holiday paid in euros. The cost still appears high when you consider countless dollars in cruise ticket and flight charges when you pick up the bill for aboard goods, and when you inquire about the check at that cute onshore cafe.
By renting a cabin on a European sailing, you implicitly commit to spending a particular amount of money. However, you can save some euros by making wise selections before and throughout your trip. Read on to learn the strategies for booking European cruises within your budget.
Plan it at the Right Time.
The variety of cruise lines and European itineraries available creates an equally diverse range of cruise pricing. The lowest fares are typically found during the shoulder seasons of May, October, and November, while prices rise throughout the summer.
If you have a free schedule, sailing during the off-season allows you to conserve earnings while reducing overcrowding. Also, when new itineraries are revealed, cruise lines always drop prices, so making reservations a year or two in advance will save you a lot of money.
Cruise Line Matters
European cruises are port-intensive, with up to six port stops every seven-day itinerary. With a more extended stay on land and fewer hours on board, making the most of your vacation expenditures is essential. Think about a mainstream rather than a premium line for your international cruise. Europe itineraries are typically jam-packed with ports of call so that you will spend less time aboard the ship.
Additionally, prominent cruise lines are starting to assign their latest ships to the Mediterranean rather than the Caribbean, so you won’t have to worry about obsolete facilities or a lack of modern conveniences. You will have to share the ship and ports, but achieving the lowest per-day fees will be worthwhile. Furthermore, when you arrive in port alongside a mega-ship, the benefits of sailing on a smaller, costlier ship are partly diminished.
Find Your Transportation
If you need to travel further afield, most European cities offer excellent public transportation, with trains and buses that will bring you to your destination. It is crucial to consider the number of persons in your group when determining whether to take a private vehicle or public transportation to the cruise port. If you’re traveling with a large group, scheduling a taxi or shuttle to the port may be more cost-effective.
Just remember to get an international driving permit before you travel and that an automatic transmission will cost you more money. These DIY options are generally less expensive than the cruise line’s shore excursions and give you more control over your daily activities.
Keep Airfare Cost Low
Don’t forget that flight is a significant portion of your Europe cruise expense. It’s no secret that flying across the water can be pricey for budget-conscious travelers. Flying a day or two days early into the port city of your cruise will save you money on airfare while also accounting for unanticipated air delays and jet lag.
Also, Transatlantic airfares are steadily rising, so an affordable last-minute cruise deal may become a budget buster when you try to book a trip barely a month in advance. Consider a round-trip cruise (departing and returning from the same port) rather than a one-way voyage to save money on flights. A round-trip ticket is usually less expensive than two one-way tickets, though your cruise operator may provide discounted or complimentary flights with your reservation.
Forgo the balcony Cabin.
You can choose a cheaper inside or outside accommodation over a balcony cabin in Europe. Unlike an Alaska cruise, the ship will not be cruising through spectacular landscapes at all hours. Position yourself promptly on the top decks to view the boat, pull into port, and find a table near the pool if you want outdoor dining.
Wrapping Up
It’s difficult to find European cruises with a lower per-day cost than a Caribbean vacation but don’t let that deter you from investigating all of your money-saving choices. The more intelligently you spend, the more you’ll relish your trip–and the more money you’ll have left over for your future vacation.
