The cost of going on a cruise could be higher next year due to a combination of economic factors, according to a leading industry expert.
As the UK emerges from the pandemic and demand for cruise increases, cruise lines will not need to discount as much as previously, while additional costs for fuel, onboard food and drink, company insurance and staffing may be reflected in fares.
Guests may have to pay more while on holiday because of fluctuating exchange rates, and increasing indirect costs for flights and taxis and transfers to ports may also have an impact.
Says Tony Andrews of cruise.co.uk: “With travel continuing to open up, more and more of us are really looking forward to our next cruise. Unfortunately, would-be holidaymakers should be aware that some prices on 2022 getaways, in cruise and across all of travel, are likely to be higher.
“There are so many variables that could push prices up, some of which feel almost inevitable, such as food and insurance hikes, and others which may be announced at short notice, such as fuel rises.
Andrews stressed the need to book early, adding: “If you know where you want to go next year, paying a deposit now will mean you can take advantage of the current fare. Booking everything at once – including flights, transfers, hotel stays and guided tours – is often better value than buying all the elements individually.
“By being savvy and planning next year’s break now, you may well save yourself a tidy sum.”
Top tips for saving money
Book early … If you have your heart set on a specific ship, itinerary or cabin then booking early will give you a higher chance to obtain lower prices. In fact, early bird prices can be up to 50% less.
Book an inside cabin … When planning your cabin, determine how much time you will spend in it. If a sea view isn’t important, as the main purpose of your cabin is to sleep in it, choose an inside cabin or a cabin with an obstructed view, as this will take a considerable amount off the price.
Book a guaranteed cabin … A guaranteed cabin is one that is booked without being specifically allocated. Your cabin will instead be confirmed shortly prior to your cruise and its position and deck number chosen for you. If you’re happy to book on this basis, the majority of cruise lines will offer these cabins at a discounted rate.
Book an older ship … If you’re interested in a particular destination and aren’t too worried about the ship you sail on, consider an older vessel. You’ll find its age is reflected in the price – although you can still take advantage of a comfortable sailing to your chosen holiday location.
Pre-pay your tips … Tips are part of the onboard cruise experience, and pre-paying them can work out slightly cheaper than having them added to an on-board account at the end of your voyage. It’s well worth reviewing this in good time before sailing rather than leaving it until the last-minute.
Buy a beverage package … If you like to relax with a drink or two when on holiday, you can save money by ordering a beverage package if you’re not on an all-inclusive cruise. These packages offer good value for money and have varying levels, so you can order and save based on your preferences.
Travel off-peak … Travellers will find better deals by avoiding peak times – such as summer, school holidays, Christmas and Easter – by sailing in the off-peak ‘shoulder season’ months of February, October and November.
Book a repositioning cruise … A cruise ship will typically stay in one area for a season (say the Mediterranean in the summer), then sail to a different area for another season (say the Caribbean in the winter). When a ship sails from one area to the next in preparation for the new season, these ‘re-positioning’ cruises are still open to book up. They will feature a majority of days on-board the ship rather than calling at different destinations, but are available at a reduced cost.
Book a cruise & tour package … If you’re looking to extend your holiday with a stay on land before or after your cruise, take advantage of a cruise and tour package. Booking everything at once – including flights, transfers, hotel stays and guided tours – is often better value than buying all the elements individually.