Cruise Buzz

If you want to whisk your family away on a spontaneous cruise vacation, there’s never been a better time.

Advance planning is often the key to success in cruising: prices and selection are usually best when you book six months or more ahead. But, the uncertain economy has many cruise lines offering very attractive deals on last-minute bookings.

Cruising is always a great vacation value, and that value is growing as many cruise lines discount fares on some sailings. Right now, there are good values available on cruises to the Caribbean, Mexico and Europe. Take care when booking a Mediterranean or Baltic cruise, though, because the necessary airfares may eat up savings from the cruise portion of your vacation. In addition to discounted fares, cruise lines are attracting families with other incentives to sail.

Incentives could include lower required deposits; hundreds of dollars in shipboard credits, which can be used to pay for treats like spa services and beverages on board; free airfare to and from home; two-for-one rates; and children sailing for free with their parents.

Cruise lines report good availability on family accommodations, including triples (a stateroom that sleeps three) and quads (a stateroom that sleeps four). Lower prices might even put a suite within your budget. But, remember that whichever type of stateroom you choose, you and your family will have access to all of the ship’s fabulous dining, entertainment and recreation options.

Also, consider the growing number of homeports in the U.S. and Canada. If you can drive to your ship, you’ll eliminate the cost of airfare. In fact, with all the options available for economical, last-minute family cruise vacations, it’s important to work closely with a cruise expert. This travel professional will help you sift through all of the special offers to find a cruise that will be perfect for you and your family.

Contact Cruise Holidays of Mission Viejo with any questions at 888-203-3012 or email us at cruise@cruisebuzz.net.