Voyage Masters links to dozens of pages showing Cruise Discount Packages on 17 of the most popular carriers. Shop by line, theme, ship or cruise destination. Our most popular destinations are Alaska, Bahamas, Bermuda, Caribbean and Baja Mexico.
Popular cruises from the United States include the Caribbean, Mexico, Central and South America, Canada, Alaska, and Florida. Worldwide, 10 million passengers travel annually, and more than 70 million bed-days are available. The Caribbean and the Mediterranean rank as the most popular destinations, but itineraries include all continents and areas not easily accessible by other means of travel. Given the broad appeal and relative high value of ship travel, the industry has had overall passenger occupancies at full capacity in recent years. While the industry average for the duration of an excursion is about 7 days, voyages can last from several hours (e.g., gambling cruises) to several months (e.g., around-the-world and semester-at-sea cruises).
Ships and all ocean-sailing vessels engaged in international commerce show flags of registry, which are required for operation in international waters. They are most often registered in the United Kingdom, Liberia, Panama, Norway, the Netherlands, the Bahamas, and the United States. Flag registry states provide comprehensive maritime expertise and administrative services; require annual safety inspections before issuance of a passenger vessel certificate; and monitor vessel compliance with international and flag state standards.
Booking: Value
* Book your cruise as early as possible for the best value. There are great deals available for the 2010 season. In fact, some people are already taking advantages of significant savings for the 2011 season!
* If you are cruising alone and choose not to share your cabin, anticipate a "single's supplement" charge ranging from 10% to 100% of the per person rate.
* Repositioning voyages can be a great bargain. When a cruise line moves a ship from one region to another between seasons, many lines offer outstanding deals.
* If you're cruising alone, inquire as to if your line has a "guaranteed share rate." This program finds a roommate of the same sex and avoids the addition of a "single's supplement" to your fare.
* Discounted rates are often available during a destination's off-season. If you're flexible, look for cruises during those months.
* A three-or four-day cruise is a quick, inexpensive way to rejuvenate your spirit.
Booking: Accommodations
* If you are concerned about getting seasick, the cabins with the least amount of movement are located in the middle of the ship, both vertically and horizontally.
* Inside cabins, those that do not provide an ocean view, are the least expensive way to cruise.
* Outside cabins typically have a porthole or a window. More lavish outside cabins may have private balconies.
* Cabins located near the ship's laundry, generator, galley or club tend to be a bit noisier than others.
* If you have special needs, be sure that the ship can accommodate your needs before you book.
* Suites usually provide a separate bedroom, a living area, and a bathroom, and are the most expensive. Some come with a private balcony.
* Not all cruise lines have the same definition of a "suite." Some cruise lines consider larger cabins with a curtain dividing the sitting and sleeping areas a "suite." Be sure to investigate what type of "suite" you will be getting before you book.
Booking: Amenities
* If it's imperative you stay wired while onboard, check the ship's facilities before you book. Most cruise ships have an Internet cafe and some even have in-cabin data ports.
* An increasing number of cruises offer accommodations for family reunions, birthdays, anniversaries, business meetings and other special events. If you have reason to celebrate, ask what packaged amenities are available.
* Most cruises offer pre- and post-cruise packages that include accommodations, excursions and transfers. This can be an excellent way to extend your vacation.
Booking: Demographics
* Check the demographics of ships carefully, particularly if you are traveling alone or with children, to be certain you selected the right cruise for you.
* Most cruise lines offer special children's programs and activities. If you have kids, inquire about children's facilities before booking.
* Three-or four-day cruises tend to attract younger passengers, as do cruises on weekends and school breaks.
Booking: Ships
* Smaller ships (accommodating 500 passengers or less) are good for an intimate environment that tends to feature highly personalized service and, often, unique itineraries.
* Medium-size ships (accommodating between 500 and 1,000 passengers) have a fair amount of onboard activity and entertainment without the volume of people on a mega ship.
* Large ships (accommodating over 1,000 passengers) cater to travelers who crave a variety of entertainment options, high-tech facilities and plenty of new friends.
Booking: Itineraries
* If you seek relaxation, consider an itinerary that balances sea days with port days.
Before Your Journey
Pre-departure
* Identification requirements vary with every trip. Be sure to know exactly what type of I.D. you will be required to present before you go.
* Notify the cruise ship of any special dietary restrictions or requests at least 60 days prior to departure.
* Leave copies of your passport, airline tickets, traveler's cheques and credit cards with a family member or a friend back on the mainland.
* Some countries require certain immunizations to enter. Discuss your travel plans with a doctor. It may be necessary to bring proof of immunizations with you.
* If you are prone to motion sickness, consult your doctor prior to departure. Motion sickness medications (such as Dramamine and patches) often do well to curb nausea.
* Setting up a web-based e-mail account before you depart (such as Hotmail, Yahoo or AOL) makes it easy to e-mail friends and family while you're abroad.
* Always call to confirm your flight 24 hours prior to departure.
* If you have any ongoing medical conditions, ask your doctor to write up a brief medical history for you to travel with.
* When you receive your cruise documents in the mail, take the time to go over them in detail and verify that all the information is correct.
* Double-check your flight information and airline documents for accuracy.
* Remember, if you book "cruise only", you are responsible for arriving at the port in time for check-in, security and departure.
* If you plan to bring a hair dryer or an electric razor, inquire with your cruise line as to what the cabin voltage will be. You may need an adaptor.
* Leave the ship's contact information with a friend or family member back home. This information can usually be found on the cruise line's web site or by contacting them directly by phone.
* If you book an air/sea package and you miss the ship because of a late or cancelled flight, rest assured that the cruise line will take care of getting you to the next port.
* Check-in and security procedures can be involved. Be sure to arrive at the embarkation area at least two hours prior to sailing. If you board early, there are plenty of activities that begin before the ship leaves port.
* Most lines send an onboard credit card application form with the tickets. To save time, complete the form beforehand and bring it with you when you check in.
* Some lines help you save time by allowing you to complete your immigration and embarkation forms online. Check with your cruise line.
* You'll be given a receipt when you hand over your passport upon boarding. If not, ask for one.
* Don't purchase duty-free alcohol to drink onboard. It is confiscated until the last day of the cruise.
* Reading up on your ports of call (in guidebooks and on the Internet) can greatly enrich your journey. In addition, most ships have a library with information on your destinations.
* Want to learn to scuba dive? Consider doing the class work at a local dive center before you leave and save the open water portion for your trip. This will minimize your time sitting at a desk while on vacation.
Packing
Packing: Clothing
* Most ships have exercise facilities and classes. If you plan on working out, don't forget gym clothes and shoes.
* Some cruises travel through multiple climates. Make sure to pack accordingly.
* Life aboard a cruise ship is generally laid-back and casual. Pack for comfort.
* Footwear should include walking/running shoes and, if you're headed some place warm, sandals.
* Even when cruising warm weather destinations, consider packing a sweater/sweatshirt, water repellant jacket and hat.
* Though most dining areas on larger ships have a dress code, not all do. Options outside of the main dining room, such as a pizzeria or buffet, will generally allow t-shirts, jeans and shorts.
* When the dress code for a dining area is described as "casual," plan to dress in "golf" attire. T-shirts, jeans and shorts are not allowed.
* When the dress code for a dining area is described as "informal," plan to dress "business casual". Women generally wear dresses or pantsuits, while men usually wear lightweight jackets.
* When the dress code for a dining area is described as "formal," women should be prepared to wear cocktail dresses or gowns, while men should consider wearing business suits or tuxedos (though not required).
* Most ships that have formal events offer tuxedo rental onboard, eliminating the hassle of packing one.
* Almost every ship has laundry service (including dry cleaning), but the tab can add up. Consider bringing a small amount of detergent for washing clothes in your own cabin.
* Most ships have powerful air conditioning. A sweater or sweatshirt may come in handy.
Packing: Necessities
* It's easy to forget sunscreen and sunglasses with all the excitement of an upcoming cruise. Be sure to pack them if you're traveling to a sunny destination (including Alaska).
* Bring a camera. Don't forget extra film, memory cards, batteries, charger, etc.
* Never pack your passport, visa, license, medications, cruise documents or airline tickets in checked luggage. Keep such items with you.
* If you take prescription medication, be sure to pack enough for the entire voyage. Ships tend to only stock general medications and ports may not have what you need.
* Pack a written list of your medications, including the name of the drug, dosage and times taken, in case they are lost.
* Items to pack in your carry-on bag include: perishables, liquor, cash, credit/debit cards, jewelry, business documents, travel and health insurance information, laptops, computer disks, cell phones, cameras, binoculars, film, videotapes, CD's and cassette tapes.
* Bring credit cards and travelers cheques instead of large amounts of cash.
Packing: Luggage
* It's wise to use hard-sided luggage. Garment bags with hanger hooks protruding from the top may snag and do damage.
* Put a card with your name and address inside your luggage as well as on the outside.
