Carnival Cruise Line has remained the most popular cruise company in operation because of all passengers are offered. In addition to the incredible shows, dining, programs, and adventures while on the ship, Carnival makes sure that passengers have opportunities onshore that are just as exciting. However, one of the aspects of a Carnival cruise that makes it the number one choice is affordability. Although pricing for cruises are already reasonable, you will discover additional options to save even more.
Because most people are currently trying to stretch the almighty dollar without sacrificing on needed vacation time, it makes perfect sense to learn about additional ways to cut the cost of taking a Carnival cruise. By following a few simple rules, you can enjoy an amazing cruise at a reduced cost but without giving up on any of the fun. Although many other options for cutting costs exist, the following would definitely help.
For one thing, take full advantage of as many freebies onboard the ship as possible. A perfect example is food. Although every Carnival cruise ship has casual and formal dining, the biggest expense is the drinks that go along with the meal. Of course, food onboard the cruise ships is free, the cost of alcoholic beverages is not and considering that drinks can be expensive, it would be worth avoiding cocktails altogether or at minimum, limiting intake.
Another way of saving on the cost of a Carnival cruise is by staying out of the onboard casino. Each ship features a beautifully decorated casino with all the favorite games you would expect to find in Las Vegas to include poker, blackjack, roulette, slots, etc. However, as most people know, gambling is just that “a gamble.” In addition, casinos on any cruise ship are no different from those in Vegas, meaning the house always has the advantage. Therefore, avoid the casino, instead choosing some other type of free activity.
Some of the other tips for saving money with Carnival include the following:
• Having a window that looks out to the water is nice but considering you could be outside on deck day and night, spend less for a basic cabin and enjoy the fresh air and great views outside of the stateroom. The same would be true for a room with a balcony. While nice, you could save serious money and simply enjoy views from the ship’s deck.
• Choose shore excursions carefully, making sure you decide on experiences you really want and would not be rushed through. Then, book your onshore excursions at the same time you book the cruise, which would not only save money but also provide a guarantee.
• Carnival cruises are notorious for their pampering spas. Going overboard with manicures, pedicures, facials, massages would cost a lot of money. Therefore, decide to treat yourself to one spa treatment and leave it at that.
• Instead of paying for some of the group classes such as Pilates, Spinning, and Yoga, you want to take advantage of the free exercise or workout classes offered on Carnival cruises.
• If you plan to take a cruise with children, remember that they stay free as long as they share a stateroom with two paying adults. In addition, Carnival offers a wide variety of free activities and programs so avoid paying.
• Finally, when tempted to purchase a fancy drink while sunbathing on deck, indulging in ice cream while sitting around the pool, or sipping on some type of specialty coffee, think twice in that prices are very high. Again, you could indulge once or twice just to say you experienced everything the Carnival ships have to offer but be careful in that the cost of these extras would add up quickly.