Cruising on the Cheap

Taking a cruise is one way to see attractions in multiple countries. Here’s how you can save money doing it:

• Take a trip off-season. Cruising Europe in early spring, when the weather is uncertain, or the Caribbean in the middle of summer heat can cost you hundreds of dollars less than cruising during peak season.


• Look for a repositioning cruise. When cruise lines reposition ships from, say, Europe and Alaska to South America and Hawaii, they take passengers with them to offset the costs. While you will spend days over open ocean, you’ll still have access to the benefits of your traveling hotel.


• Bundle up. As with most other types of travel, bundling your cruise, airline and hotel costs may cost less than purchasing them separately.


• Travel last-minute. If you have the freedom to do so, book an unused cabin at the last minute. Better yet, find one that doesn’t require airfare.