Going on an Alaskan cruise is a dream vacation for many people. The stunning landscapes, the wildlife, and the relaxing atmosphere make it an unforgettable experience. However, it can also be an expensive endeavor. Having done some research and experience with Alaskan cruises, I want to share a few practical tips that can help you save money without compromising on the quality of your trip.
Table of Contents
1. Choose the Right Time to Cruise
The timing of your cruise can make a significant difference in how much you spend. The high season for Alaskan cruises typically runs from June to August, when the weather is best, and the prices are highest. If you want to save money, consider cruising during the shoulder season (May or September). The weather is still quite pleasant, but the prices can be up to 30% lower than during peak season.
Here’s a quick breakdown of the price difference:
| Month | Average Price (Per Person) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| May | $1,200 | Ideal for saving money |
| June-August | $1,600 | Peak season, high prices |
| September | $1,300 | Lower than peak season |
By booking during the shoulder season, you get the best of both worlds: slightly lower prices while still experiencing the beauty of Alaska.
2. Book Early or Last-Minute for the Best Deals
Timing your booking can be just as important as the time of year you go. Booking early often allows you to take advantage of early bird promotions and discounts. On the other hand, if you’re flexible and not too set on specific dates, last-minute deals can also offer substantial savings.
Cruise lines tend to offer significant discounts on unsold cabins closer to the departure date. If you book around 3-6 months in advance, you can find discounts ranging from 10% to 30%, depending on the cruise line and availability.
Here’s an example:
| Booking Time | Average Discount | Example Price (per person) |
|---|---|---|
| Early Booking | 10-20% | $1,400 |
| Last-Minute Booking | 20-30% | $1,120 |
While the last-minute option isn’t for everyone, if you’re flexible with your plans, it can be a great way to save.
3. Consider Inside Cabins Instead of Oceanview or Balcony Rooms
One of the biggest expenses on any cruise is the cabin. While it’s tempting to book a cabin with a balcony or an ocean view, these options can add hundreds or even thousands of dollars to your total cost. I’ve found that opting for an inside cabin is a great way to cut costs without losing out on the cruise experience.
The savings from an inside cabin versus a balcony room can range from $400 to $1,000 depending on the cruise length. If you’re planning to spend most of your time exploring the ship, or on shore excursions, the inside cabin might be all you need.
Here’s a comparison of prices:
| Cabin Type | Average Price (7-night cruise) | Difference in Price |
|---|---|---|
| Inside Cabin | $1,200 | Base Price |
| Oceanview Cabin | $1,500 | +$300 |
| Balcony Cabin | $1,800 | +$600 |
I personally don’t find it necessary to pay extra for a room I’m not going to spend a lot of time in. The savings can be put towards other aspects of the trip, like shore excursions or onboard activities.
4. Use Package Deals for Shore Excursions
Shore excursions are a great way to explore Alaska, but they can be pricey when booked individually. Cruise lines often offer package deals that allow you to book multiple excursions at a discounted rate. For example, booking three or more excursions together could save you 10% to 20% on each one.
Here’s an example of what a shore excursion package might look like:
| Excursion Type | Single Price | Package Price (3+ Excursions) | Savings |
|---|---|---|---|
| Glacier Bay Tour | $200 | $180 | 10% |
| Wildlife Safari | $150 | $130 | 13% |
| Dog Sledding Adventure | $300 | $270 | 10% |
By booking a package, I can ensure that I experience the best of Alaska without paying full price for each individual excursion.
5. Look for Discounts and Special Offers
Many cruise lines offer discounts throughout the year for various reasons. This can include loyalty programs, group discounts, and even special promotions like “kids sail free.” These discounts can add up, especially if you’re traveling as a family or booking for a group.
Cruise lines like Princess, Royal Caribbean, and Holland America offer promotional discounts that can reduce the overall cost by up to 25%. Keep an eye out for deals that include airfare, onboard credits, and drink packages, which can further help with budgeting.
Here’s a quick look at how different discounts can affect your total cost:
| Discount Type | Average Savings | Example Total Price (Per Person) |
|---|---|---|
| Group Discount (5 or more) | 10-15% | $1,400 |
| Loyalty Program | 5-10% | $1,350 |
| Kids Sail Free (Family) | $600-$1,000 | $3,000 (for family of four) |
By staying informed and keeping an eye on discounts, I can significantly reduce the cost of my cruise.
6. Take Advantage of Onboard Spending Credits
Many cruise lines offer onboard credits, which can be used for excursions, dining, or even the spa. These credits are often given as part of a special promotion or for booking early. It’s like getting free money to use on board. For example, a $200 onboard credit can be used for specialty dining or excursions. If you were going to spend that money anyway, why not let the cruise line provide it for you?
| Onboard Credit Offer | Average Credit Amount | Total Cruise Price (with credit) |
|---|---|---|
| Early Booking Deal | $100 | $1,200 |
| Package Deal | $200 | $1,300 |
| Group Discount Offer | $300 | $1,350 |
When I’ve used onboard credits, it feels like getting something for nothing, and it can greatly reduce my overall cruise expenses.
7. Bring Your Own Drinks
Alcohol and specialty beverages are some of the priciest items on cruise ships. While most ships allow you to bring your own wine or champagne onboard (within certain limits), many also allow you to bring a bottle of water or soft drinks. Cruise lines often charge up to $10 for a cocktail, and coffee or soda packages can cost $30-$50 per person for the duration of the cruise.
By bringing my own beverages or taking advantage of free water stations onboard, I can save a considerable amount. For example, a soda package can cost $40 for the week. If you typically spend $5 per soda, that’s 8 sodas – not a lot of value if you’re not drinking them constantly.
8. Avoid Overpriced Specialty Dining
While specialty dining can be a fun treat, the prices often don’t match the quality or quantity of food. I’ve found that the main dining room offers great food, and many ships have no-charge buffets that are satisfying and filling. Many cruise lines also offer themed nights in the main dining area, where you can try different types of cuisine without paying extra.
If you want to try specialty dining, look for deals or promotions where it’s included as part of your booking package. Otherwise, saving your specialty dining funds for a one-time splurge (such as a lobster night) can help stretch your budget.
Conclusion
By being strategic and planning ahead, you can save money on an Alaskan cruise without sacrificing the experience. Choosing the right time to cruise, booking early or last-minute, selecting the right cabin, and taking advantage of discounts and onboard credits can all make a big difference in your total cost. If you approach the cruise with a mindful eye, you’ll find that there are plenty of ways to enjoy the wonders of Alaska without going overboard on spending.
