I hope this wasnt posted before but afew things to know are:

Watch the cruise rates after you book. If you have paid in full and the price drops on some cruise lines you can get onboard credits or room upgrades sometimes just by calling and letting them know you saw the price drop.

If you go on a the last cruise before a ship changes itineraries. Like for example the last couple of Alaskan cruises before they ship moves to warmer waters or vice versa. Alot of things go on Sale at that time so they can get rid of the merchandise geared towards that cruise and bring in new stuff for the new itinerary. I went on an Alaskan cruise right before the ship moved to Hawaii and I got winter jackets and sweatshirts dirt cheap. Also got candy bars, tote bags and other great items that said Alaska on them for gifts for co workers and friends.

Also watch in ports again in Alaska the season ends in Sept. I got cashmere lined leather gloves that retailed for 200.00 for $20.00 because the shop owner didnt want to pack them up. Also got a great winter coat for $50.00.

To keep drink costs down. You are allowed on most lines to bring a couple of 12 packs of soda, beer and wine on board. Different ships allow different amounts.

Always plan to fly in a day or 2 ahead of your ships departure. I can't tell you how many times I have heard of people missing the boat because they flew in the day the ship left and their flights were delayed or cancelled causing them to miss the boat.

Booking your excursions off the boat is a great way of saving money. But make sure you find out ships time versus port times. The ship usually stays on one time and when you come into port that port may be an hour or two ahead or behind ships time. When the ship says be back by 4pm they mean ship time. I have seen people book excursions or just go to the beach and look at the local time and miss the boat. Also for peace of mind if you book an excursion on the ship if that excursion runs late or your van has a flat or breaks down the ship will wait for you., If you book off ship the ship will not wait if you are late.


Those are what I can think of for now. If you have any questions just ask. I have been on lots of cruises and in fact going on another in April.