With even a short cruise ship holiday costing anything up to £2,000 per person, it’s important to know how to get the best out of your break on the ocean wave. Holiday parking experts Air & Cruise Parking quizzed cruise ship insiders to gather valuable tips on how to maximise your shipboard experience.
Fist off, according to former P&O crew member Natasha, you should be sure to live in the moment – and stay off the internet: “I recommend waiting until you’re at a port to use Wi-Fi at local cafes,” she says. “Cruise Wi-Fi isn’t worth the high cost, especially when free options are available onshore.”
Another everyday expenditure that can be surprisingly expensive on a cruise ship is water. Harry, who has worked for both P&O and Cunard, has a handy tip: “A reusable water bottle can be a lifesaver for your budget. Onboard water is often heavily marked up, so this simple tip can add up to big savings.”
Remaining with the subject of drinking, for further savings, Yasmin Peckel, a cruise expert with Blue Cruise, highlights the advantages of booking a drink package. She explained: “If you plan to enjoy cocktails or coffee regularly, a package can save you considerably.”
She notes that many ships offer unlimited drink packages covering alcoholic beverages, soft drinks, smoothies, and even coffee from onboard chains like Starbucks. Yasmin added: “Booking these packages before you board is often cheaper, so you can relax without worrying about drink costs adding up.”
She adds that when it comes to picking your cabin you should think about opting for quieter cabins that are far from high-traffic areas, such as those near the anchor or entertainment venues. The worst cabins, she says, are in the centre of the ship, but there is one special reason that you might want to book one.
While Harry from P&O advises, “Cabins in the middle of the ship without windows are some of the least desirable,” Yasmin points out that that mid-ship cabins near water level are ideal for passengers prone to seasickness due to their stability.
“Midship cabins near water level offer stability, making them ideal for passengers prone to seasickness,” she says.
For first-time cruisers, Yasmin concludes with a handful of invaluable tips: “Arrive at the embarkation port a day early. Delayed flights are common, and cruise ships rarely wait for late passengers.”
She also recommends booking cruises early for the best rates, but adds that you can also do well by booking late: “Watch for last-minute deals if you’re flexible—they often come with valuable perks like free Wi-Fi or discounted drink packages.”
From long-term to short-term parking, Air & Cruise Parking provides a range of choices, including valet and economy options, ensuring a seamless travel experience.
The platform is designed to simplify the parking process, offering real-time availability and easy booking features. Whether you’re heading on a quick business trip or an extended vacation, Air & Cruise Parking is your go-to resource for hassle-free vacation parking.
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