Royal Caribbean Cruise Discounts
From LoveToKnow Cruises
As one of the largest cruise lines in the world, Royal Caribbean Cruise discounts are not too hard to find. Savvy travelers can easily save hundreds of dollars on fabulous cruise vacations by comparing prices and knowing how to find the best deals.
Who Can Get Royal Caribbean Cruise Discounts
There are many different sizes of Royal Caribbean ships sailing dozens of different itineraries throughout the world. Because of that variety, anyone can find great discounts, but the best deals are available to groups, families, and past guests.
Groups
Many corporate groups book cruises with Royal Caribbean because the ships offer an immense variety of cruise activities and destinations to choose from, ensuring that everyone has an enjoyable getaway. Booking blocks of cabins for large numbers of people to take advantage of is a very frugal choice, particularly if the cruise reservations are made far enough in advance to lock in early rates. In addition to discount fares, groups can also enjoy the use of meeting facilities and private events while on board.
Families
Royal Caribbean cruise discounts are perfect for families. This mainstream line is ideal for family cruises because of the wide range of activities and options for all ages:
- Younger kids will enjoy the exclusive children’s programs including games, crafts, and parties.
- Teens will have a blast on the signature rock wall, in-line skating track, miniature golf, internet café, basketball court, pools, and music clubs. Note: Not all features are available on all ships.
- Parents can escape to the adults-only atriums or spa facilities, or arrange a romantic dinner for two at an alternative restaurant.
- Grandparents will enjoy the trivia contests, library, therapy spa treatments, and classic dance music.
The best part is, Royal Caribbean cruise discounts are family-friendly by providing many multi-passenger and adjoining cabins with hefty discounts for third, fourth, and fifth passengers in the same cabin. Senior citizens may also be eligible for additional rate discounts, making these vacations affordable for everyone.
Past Guests
All cruise lines offer special rates for past passengers, and Royal Caribbean is no exception. Unlike lines that require past guests to have taken multiple cruises, however, Royal Caribbean guests can register as past guests after just one sailing, and discount fares may be available to book right on board. Additionally, the cruise line arranges special discounts for past passengers on select sailings (frequently for five-night or longer cruises) throughout the year.
Tips for Finding the Best Discounts
Even passengers who do not qualify for group, family, or past guest fares can find great Royal Caribbean cruise discounts. Tricks for finding the best fares include:
- Be ready to book with one-day internet-only online fares. These heavily discounted rates are often for last minute cruises or popular itineraries, but the deals sell out quickly. Many online travel and cruise brokers offer newsletters and email alerts for discount deals.
- Opt for an interior cabin. While the cabin itself may not have a view, the rates are significantly lower than oceanview or balcony accommodations, and all the amenities are the same. On Royal Caribbean’s Voyager and Freedom class ships, the largest in the fleet, a limited number of interior cabins actually do offer an interior view of the ship’s main promenade, which is not only a fabulous deal but also provides a front row seat for entertaining parades.
- Book with a cruise travel agent for great deals and personalized service. Travel agents often have the discretion to find lower fares for their guests, and may even be able to match or beat rates if the cruise line lowers prices after a reservation has been made.
- Arrange a Cruisetour. These cruise packages not only include a terrific cruise, but also add pre- and post- sailing tours and sightseeing. These are particularly popular in Hawaii and Alaska, giving passengers rare insights into the unique cultures and natural beauty of the destinations.
- Check the official website, www.RoyalCaribbean.com for regular updates. Hot Deals and other cruise specials may not be offered through travel agents.
With so many ways to find great deals, everyone can find the perfect Royal Caribbean vacation, but passengers also need to be aware that not all cruise discounts are as great as they may seem.
Not All Deals are Worthwhile
If the initial fare quoted by a website, travel agent, or special promotion seems too good to be true, passengers should always investigate it carefully to look for added fees or hidden costs. Some items to watch out for include:
- Port Fees and Government Taxes. These surcharges are frequently added after a cruise quote and may run $100-500 per passenger depending on the length of the cruise, the number of ports, and the cruise line’s policies.
- Airfare Charges. Most passengers require airline tickets to reach the port, but booking through the cruise line may not be the most economical option. Always double check airfare against rates unaffiliated with the cruise.
- Tips and Gratuities. Royal Caribbean does not add these fees onto fares for shorter (3-7 day) voyages, but the $10+ charge per passenger per day can quickly add up. Guests do have discretion to adjust most gratuities as the service warrants.
- Added Amenities. Novice passengers are often surprised by what is and isn’t included in a cruise price. Alcoholic drinks, shore tours, spa treatments, and souvenirs are not included and prices can add up quickly, making even the best deal far more expensive than anticipated.
By carefully considering additional costs, passengers can keep a great bargain without restricting their vacation plans.
Royal Caribbean cruise discounts are not hard to find, and with so many choices of ships and itineraries, prospective passengers can find great deals to make their next cruise vacation a bargain as well as a wonderful vacation.
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This page has been accessed 5,693 times. This page was last modified 18:41, 8 December 2007.
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