Experts have flagged a key way cruise passengers can save money while on their voyage, and a clever tip to prevent regrettable splurges.
In post on their blog, travel site AllCruiseHotels.com said planning what you’re going to do about food for however long you’re on board is crucial.
Though cruises can be expensive, some perks are often included with the price, with firms laying on things like complimentary food.
“Most cruise ships nowadays have pretty impressive buffet-style dining venues and even cafes that are already included in your fare,” the website says.
However, it cautions that this “doesn’t mean they will stop trying to lure you into their speciality five-star restaurants, which are not included”.
The website recommends budgeting how much you’re prepared to spend on restaurant food before you even get on the ship.
That way you can limit impulsive purchases and making financial decisions “when you’re starving”.
Meanwhile, another cruise expert revealed cruise passengers often miss out an a massive enhancement of their trip they could get just by asking.
Ships are still carrying fewer passengers than they normally would pre Covid, as the industry pushes to get travellers back out there.
As a result, there are often plenty of rooms are often up for grabs but will remain empty unless the customer plucks up the courage to ask for an upgrade.
Daniella, who has been a cruise director for six years and even lived on ship for nearly a year, told Reader’s Digest: “People are often nervous to ask for an upgrade, but those rooms will just be left empty if they’re not filled by departure time.
“We love making guests happy, and as long as you’re polite and phrase it as a question, not a demand, we’ll do our best!,” she added.
The cruise afficionado recommended holidaymakers find an employee greeting guests and ask them.
“And in case you were wondering, you can ask for an upgrade regardless of how you purchased your tickets”, Daniella said.
A number of cruise lines now offer the passengers the option to bid for an upgrade after booking their cabins, meaning they can upgrade for an additional sum.
This story originally appeared on Express.co.uk
