10 simple tips for booking an inexpensive cruise

Although cruises may seem expensive at first, just about everything is included. Check out these ten tips and get the scoop on savings before you embark.

Use your computer to check out specials, even if you end up booking through a travel agent or the cruise company.

• Although online web prices are deeply discounted, if you find a lower Internet rate, some cruise companies will beat or match it.

Call two or three agencies to get their best prices.

• Determine how well the agent takes care of you and seeks to meet your needs and interests.
• One way to check on whether an agency is legitimate is to find out whether it is a member of the Cruise Line International Agency (CLIA) or the Association of Canadian Travel Agents (ACTA).

Cruise lines give big discounts to those who pay well ahead — you may save yourself hundreds of dollars. But prices tend to fluctuate over time, and if the ship has empty staterooms as sailing time approaches, prices drop.

• Booking last-minute can sometimes get you an even better deal.
• Make sure that any savings aren't eaten up by the cost of last-minute airfare.

The prime and highest-priced season tends to be from late December through March.

• Fall is well-priced for cruising, although it is hurricane season.

• Food and entertainment are included but tips are not — and they can add up to over $100 a week for each person.
• Many shore excursions are extra, bumping up the cost, so carefully check what is included.

Don't limit yourself to the planned excursions from the ship.

• Contact the tourist bureaus of the ports you'll be visiting beforehand and see what they can offer you.
• Doing your own land tour can be more fun, better tailored to your interests and a lot cheaper.
• Do consider your personal safety in some locales.

Inside cabins are just as spacious as outside ones and cost about 60 per cent less.

• The only thing you'll miss is the view — while you are sleeping.

Most cruise packages include everything but airfare.

• Many lines will offer you a lower fare with an airline partner, as it may or may not be the best deal.
• One advantage of booking a flight with a cruise line partner is that if the flight is delayed, your booking will be honoured and they will get you to the ship another way.

After checking the bargain travel sites, it might save you money to check each cruise line directly.

• Even if the sites don't book travel, you can get a better idea of the ships and the amenities they offer before you buy.

Cruise line profiles, reviews, bargains and cruise tips are all available online. Compare different cruises to find the best deal.

A cruise is meant to be a time of relaxation, not pricey travel. Know your options and create a vacation you'll remember forever!