Disney Cruise Prices are Expensive

Want to know how Disney Cruise Line get by with charging 10-20 percent more than the more mainstream cruise lines?Here's our take on it...

Alcoholic Drinks

A huge amount of any cruise line profits comes from the sale of alcoholic beverages drinks. Disney cruises tend to have fewer drinking-age passengers so they make up for that with higher cruise prices.

Gambling

Another enormous amount of cruise ship profits come from the on-board casinos. Disney cruises don't have 'em, and that means they must make up for that in their pricing structure as well. 

The Disney Experience

The Disney Cruise Line was just recently named the #1 large cruise ship experience by the readers of Condé Nast Traveler magazine in their "Reader's Cruise Poll."Disney goes above and beyond when it comes to entertaining and pampering their passengers. There is no other cruise line that comes close in our opinion.

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Recommended Reading
Read the Insider's Guide to Disney World - "great place for information on all things Disney including how to get the VIP Disney Cruise experience and how to get free stuff for your kids!" 
       - Last Minute Cruise Specials Blog 

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Previous Post: What To Pack for Cruise Vacation

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Packing for a Cruise

Deciding what to pack for a cruise vacation may seem like a fairly easy task, however you'll need to put some serious thought into what you are going to bring if you want your cruise to be as stress-free as possible.


First of all, you'll definitely want to make sure your travel documentation is all in order. Gather up everything - your cruise line tickets, your airline tickets, your passports, any of your medical prescriptions, all of your insurance papers, and then add any other pertinent documents that you might need as well (passport, power of attorney, etc.).

Secondly, you'll want to plan your clothing selection ahead of time. The type of clothing you'll need to pack depends on what kind of cruise are you going on. If it's highly luxurious where every dinner is a formal affair then men will need suits and ties and ladies will need evening gowns. If it's more of a fun and adventure type cruise, than you'll obviously get by with a lot more casual clothing. Your cruise destination and the time of year you'll be traveling will play a major role as well. A winter cruise in the Baltic Sea for example will require a much different wardrobe than a summer jaunt in the Mediterranean. Even if you booked your cruise for summer, be sure that you pack at least one set of warm clothing. There is always a possibility of inclimate weather and you don't want to spend your cruise wet and shivering!

Make sure to avoid over packing! Airlines now have very strict restrictions on extra or overweight bags and you'll end up paying dearly if you don't stay within their limits. Bring outfits that you can easily mix and match - wear that same blouse with a different skirt or pants and it becomes a whole new outfit. Bring lightweight scarves, hats, and jewelry to accessorize yourself too. By being flexible you can really reduce the amount of clothing you'll need to bring with you. Don't forget that most cruise lines do offer a laundry service in the event you run out of clean clothing.

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Recommended Reading
Read the Intelligent Cruiser eBook - "an absolute treasure chest of cruise savings. We learned so much about cruise ship discounts and as a result were able to get our cruise fare reduced by $400 without any effort at all." 
       - Last Minute Cruise Specials Blog 

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Previous Post: Cruise to Mexico - Finding the Best Available Deals

Mexican Riviera Cruises

Mexico Cruises are currently the fourth most popular cruise destination in the world, however travel agents are now reporting that Mexican Riviera Cruises are quickly climbing the popularity ladder and may soon become the most sought after cruise destination they sell.

When most people imagine Mexico they tend think of the more party associated cities like Acapulco and Cancun. Mexico has a lot more to offer however which explains it's recent boost in popularity .

Mexico is a country that is rich in historical treasures of the Mayan World and the remnants of Spanish colonization. You don't have to be a historian or a Archeologist however to find pleasure in your visit. Just know that while you are enjoying your cruise experience for it's numerous party related excursions, many people are traveling there to see those historical venues.

Along with the rich history, there are pure Mexican experiences like swimming with dolphins, cliff diving in visiting the la quebrada, and taking canopy tours through the rain forest. Mexico is famous for its pristine beaches and warm water that can be enjoyed year round because of Mexico's very temperate climate. The temperature in Mexico ranges between 70 and 80 degrees all year.

A natural benefit of cruising is your ultimate return to the ship and the luxurious air conditioned cabin you get to retire in - and of course evenings of fine dining and entertainment. Which cruise ship to take can be decided by the length of your travel itinerary, your desired ports of call, and the level of luxury you require.

It's best to do some research online but to get in touch with a travel agent to help you decide which cruise line is best.

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Recommended Reading
Read the Intelligent Cruiser eBook - "an absolute treasure chest of cruise savings. We learned so much about cruise ship discounts and as a result were able to get our cruise fare reduced by $400 without any effort at all." 
       - Last Minute Cruise Specials Blog 

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Previous Post: How to Choose a Cruise That's Right for You

Choosing a Cruise

So, you have decided to go on a cruise this year! It's an exhilarating vacation for sure, but how do you decide where to go, when to go, and even with whom should you go? There are tons of choices with respect to cruising that can be very confusing. Here are a few insider tips which should help you decide which cruise is the right one for you.

Here are just a few examples of the many types of cruises you can take:

1. Mediterranean Cruises
2. Caribbean Cruises
3. Alaskan Cruises
4. Amazon Cruises
5. Panama Canal Cruises
6. Transatlantic Cruises
7. South Pacific Cruises
8. Hawaiian Island Cruises
9. River Cruises 
10. Polar Cruises (Antarctica Cruises)
11. Russian Waterway Cruises
12. Galapagos Island Cruises
13. New Zealand/Australia Cruises

Each of the above cruises can be very appealing each of the choices is very different. So how do you choose a cruise that's right for you?

1. The first thing you'll want to consider is when you want to go because the time of the year you choose can dictate the type of cruise you'll want to go on. Some cruise lines for example don't offer cruises to the Mediterranean during the winter months, instead transferring their ships to the warmer waters of the Caribbean Sea. Alaskan cruises usually run in limited months as well due to uncertain weather conditions. Ocean crossing cruises (Transatlantic Cruises) are often only available when the seasons change so that cruise lines can reposition their ships to match the peak season tourist demand.

2. The amount of time you can commit to your trip will be a deciding factor when it comes to choosing as well. A typical cruise runs 7-nights, but you can take cruises for as short as 3-4 nights or you can take long cruises - some a month in length or even more. The amount of vacation time you have available may limit you, and taking a cruise for the first time may also be a factor. Limiting your cruise vacation to a shorter cruise may help you decide whether a longer cruise might be in the cards for another time.

3. Choosing a cruise can seem a bit overwhelming, but the main point is to make your cruise selection based on what you want to get out of the experience. If you want a plethora of activity, then you should choose a party cruise line with that outcome in mind. If you want a more relaxed atmosphere however, then you might want to choose more time at sea. If you want to sample world cultures, you should choose a destination-rich type of cruise. Different types of cruises offer different things. Hopefully these suggestions have given you an idea regarding the choices you'll need to make to get the most satisfaction out of your cruise.

Happy cruising!

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Recommended Reading
Read the Intelligent Cruiser eBook - "an absolute treasure chest of cruise savings. We learned so much about cruise ship discounts and as a result were able to get our cruise fare reduced by $400 without any effort at all." 
       - Last Minute Cruise Specials Blog 

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Previous Post: Relaxing and Exhilarating Hawaii Cruises

Hawaii Cruises

If you're thinking about taking a cruise vacation but are not sure where to go, I hope you'll consider a cruose to Hawaii. The islands of Hawaii have it all.. a relaxing tropical climate destinations, secluded and romantic getaways, and exhilarating excursions that are filled with adventure. Hawaii is known for its diverse landscapes and beautiful scenery, so a cruise to Hawaii should satisfy the desire of just about anyone - young or old, adventurous or subdued.

Surrounded by the crystal blue Pacific Ocean, it should come as no surprise that many of the most popular activities on this cruise will take place on the ocean. A Hawaii cruise gives you all of the tropical sun, sand, and ocean views of a Hawaii land vacation, but it offers the added bonus of island hopping - being able to see more than one of the beautiful Hawaiian Islands. When traveling on a Hawaii cruise, you will likely get the benefit of seeing at least four of the major Hawaiian islands in one trip. And taking a Hawaii cruise has lots of other perks as well.

One of the perks of a Hawaiian cruise package includes paying one price and having everything from meals to transportation included in that price. Then you can just kick back and relax without worrying about where to stay or how much things are going tp cost.

When it comes to excursions, there are activities for everyone. If you're daring, you can try snorkeling, scuba diving, or even the Hawaiian originated sport of surfing. While you're on a Hawaii cruise, you'll be able to participate in most of these activities right on the ship. If you're looking for a more peaceful way to spend the day however, then you can pack your beach towel and a bag lunch and just soak up some sun on the deck of your Hawaii cruise ship or on the miles of beautiful white sandy beaches.

There are so many things to do on your Hawaii vacation that it is hard to know where to begin. The six main islands offer a diverse selection of activities, so researching and knowing what each island has to offer might help you choose the excursion destination that is best for you.

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Recommended Reading
Read the Intelligent Cruiser eBook - "an absolute treasure chest of cruise savings. We learned so much about cruise ship discounts and as a result were able to get our cruise fare reduced by $400 without any effort at all." 
       - Last Minute Cruise Specials Blog 

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Previous Post: Boston to Bermuda: Sail 7 Nights from $549, 3rd/4th guests from $99!

A Free Cruise?

Here is an extraordinary offer I found today that is too good to be true...

On a select list of 2010 Avalon Waterways European River Cruises, the second traveler's cruise is free for every one person paid in full. Use travelwizard.com and book by May 25, 2010 from the following list: 


A Taste of the Danube River Cruise
14 Days Vienna to Budapest
May 29, 2010 

Blue Danube to the Black Sea River Cruise
14 Days Budapest to Vienna or Vienna to Budapest
July 16, 2010 or July 6, 2010 

Windmills, Vineyards and Paris River Cruise
15 Days Paris to Amsterdam or Paris to Amsterdam
July 31, 2010 or August 9, 2010

Step on a European river cruise and you’ll glide past remarkable scenery, medieval castles, and lush riverbank vineyards. Every gentle bend of the river reveals another breathtaking sight in the heart of Europe!

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Recommended Reading
Read the Intelligent Cruiser eBook - "an absolute treasure chest of cruise savings. We learned so much about cruise ship discounts and as a result were able to get our cruise fare reduced by $400 without any effort at all." 
       - Last Minute Cruise Specials Blog 

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Previous Post: Princess Cruises Authorizes More Ships to Australia

Business is Booming

You can now add Princess Cruises to the list of cruise lines that are increasing their voyages to Australia. The President of Princess Cruises, Alan Buckelew, just announced that the popular cruise company would be sending a fourth cruise ship to the Australia region in late 2011 which continues their multi-year expansion into the region.

In his published statement, Mr. Buckelew said that the 1,950-passenger Sea Princess will be joining the Dawn Princess and Sun Princess in Australian port voyages during the Australian summer of 2011 (winter in North America). The Dawn Princess and Sun Princess are currently sailing out of Australia year-round.

Also in Australia for the 2011-12 season will be the Sapphire Princess.

Find Cruise Deals on 100s of Sites with KAYAK.com and Save on Your Next Cruise!

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Recommended Reading
Read the Intelligent Cruiser eBook - "an absolute treasure chest of cruise savings. We learned so much about cruise ship discounts and as a result were able to get our cruise fare reduced by $400 without any effort at all." 
       - Last Minute Cruise Specials Blog 

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Previous Post: Beware Hidden Cruise Surcharges Fees

A Cruise Specials ALERT
Why a Cruise Specials alert? Because when it comes to cruise prices many cruise liners have become a little more covert in their cruise pricing operations - charging less for the ticket while assessing a number of extra fees and surcharges at embarkation.

Cruise Ship Port Charges
Cruise liners have always had an "advertised" price and a "real" price - the price after they assess the various port charges and taxes. As an example, I recently booked a 5 day cruise for myself in the cheapest available cabin at a price of $420. The port charges however added another $198.77 making the actual cruise $618.77. Holy Shmoly! There's also added expenses for shore excursions, spa treatments, alcoholic drinks, even soft drinks... and tips can easily add another $50 to the total outlay of your cruise.

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Recommended Reading
Read the Intelligent Cruiser eBook - "an absolute treasure chest of cruise savings. We learned so much about cruise ship discounts and as a result were able to get our cruise fare reduced by $400 without any effort at all." 
       - Last Minute Cruise Specials Blog

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Previous Post: The Cruise Ship Embarkation Process

Cruise Ship Boarding Tips
Your cruise vacation dreams are now a reality. You've packed your bags, filled out your cruise documentation, and you're about to start your adventure. But are you really ready to go? Here are some tips about the embarkation process that you'd be wise to take care of before you head out for your cruise vacation:

Travel Documents and a Change of Clothes
Keep all of your travel documents on your person, including tickets for the cruise, travelers vouchers, your passport, and the immigration forms that the cruise line sent you in advance. By travelers vouchers, I mean bus vouchers that your cruise line sent you to get you from the ship from the airport. Also pack a change of clothes in your carry-on luggage in case it gets delayed.

Standing in Lines is Expected
When you get to the ship, keep a cool head because the embarkation process can be a little chaotic. There are going to be lines, especially at the beginning of the check in process. There will be lots of stressed out people in line so take some deep breaths, relax, and take things in stride. Many of the major cruise lines have loyalty or reward programs and may even have preferred check in areas. Check on this with your travel agent because it can save you lots of time.

Credit Card Required
When checking in, you'll be required to give the cruise line a credit card for incidentals and on board charges. Keep your room card with you because it serves as your on board credit card and also identifies you for getting on and off the cruise ship at ports of call. Here's a good tip. If you get to your ship early enough you'll get two benefits - you'll get to have lunch on board and you'll get the best shot at getting the spa and beauty appointments you want.

Smile for the Camera
Just before getting to the gangway you will likely be stopped to pose for a picture that will be taken to commemorate your trip. The picture will be displayed in the cruise ship's photo gallery in case you decide to purchase it. Get past the photographer and you're on your way. Happy Cruising!

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Recommended Reading
Read the Intelligent Cruiser eBook - "an absolute treasure chest of cruise savings. We learned so much about cruise ship discounts and as a result were able to get our cruise fare reduced by $400 without any effort at all." 
       - Last Minute Cruise Specials Blog
 

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Previous Post: Planning a Cruise Vacation... Where Do I Begin?

Where Do I Begin?
Are you considering a cruise vacation but you really don't know where to start? Have you started shoping for a cruise vacation? Did you do your cruise shopping online? Were you successful in getting the best cruise vacation for your money? Have you booked your cruise or do you have too many questions to make the committment?

How to Shop for Cruises
You can find information about cruise vacations everywhere - from friends, travel agents, newspapers, magazines, and online cruise specialists to name just a few. While cruise information abounds, your best bet is to begin the research process on your own.

Plan Your Destination
Think about where you would like to cruise... Should it be a tropical vacation to escape cold weather, maybe a fascinating Alaskan cruise, perhaps a European cultural cruise, or maybe even a high seas adventure cruise? Search the web and you'll find merchant links, articles about cruises, sample itineraries, etc. which will help you focus your wish list down to one or two options.

Pick Your Itinerary
Once you have decided on your cruise destination, it's time to start defining your itinerary. The nice thing about doing this online is that you will not have a sales agent pushing a particular cruise for commission. You can investigate this yourself, looking for cruise lines that travel to your dream destination.

Choose Your Cruise Line
This question requires you to look inward at your own particular lifestyle. What would you like and expect a cruise vacation to be? Remember that different cruise lines offer different break points on pricing, different levels of luxury, even different styles.The higher priced cruise lines usually offer a higher level of service (cuisine, excursions, and staff members per passenger). That doesn't mean that you should automatically chose a higher priced cruise line however - just something to consider. In fact, you may want a more "freestyling" tupe of cruise that is offered by Norwegian Cruise Lines or Carnival Cruises. Their cruises tend to be more fun and relaxed than the more formal choices like Radisson Seven Seas. Your cruise line choice becomes a matter of personal preference at this point.

Pick Your Stateroom
Choosing your level of stateroom is a matter of taste as well as budget. If you don't plan to spend much time in your room, you might consider an interior room to save some money. "Ocean view" rooms provide passengers with a window to the ocean which can be kind of nice. My preference is a stateroom with a private deck where I can sit in privacy to enjoy the fresh sea air.  I will mention that all staterooms are comfy, and you will surely enjoy your room regardless of choice. 

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Recommended Reading
Read the Intelligent Cruiser eBook - "an absolute treasure chest of cruise savings. We learned so much about cruise ship discounts and as a result were able to get our cruise fare reduced by $400 without any effort at all." 
       - Last Minute Cruise Specials Blog

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Previous Post: Cruise Coupon - Carnival Cruise from $42 Night Plus Free Hotel

Carnival Cruise Coupon (Expires February 21, 2010)
Searching for cruise coupons? With this Carnival Cruise coupon, you can escape the cold and book yourself a "fun ship" cruise for just $42 per night with a free hotel stay included. The deal ends on February 21st so hurry!

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Recommended Reading
Read the Intelligent Cruiser eBook - "an absolute treasure chest of cruise savings. We learned so much about cruise ship discounts and as a result were able to get our cruise fare reduced by $400 without any effort at all." 
       - Last Minute Cruise Specials Blog

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Previous Post: Review of the "Intelligent Cruiser" eBook