Taking a cruise is one of the best ways to travel. Not only does it offer great value and easy-to-find great deals, but it is also a very relaxing way to take your vacation since you have everything taken care of, from your accommodation, food and drinks and not forgetting the excursions. If you live in Florida, you are close to the different ports and can easily take advantage of the last-minute deals.

We have compiled a list of the best-kept secrets you might not know about cruising and what we have learnt from the many years of cruising. Here are insider secrets about cruising that we think everyone should know.

Choose The Right Ship

The right ship will determine how successful your trip is going to be. Not all ships are made equal, so make sure you take your time to research the amenities offered on a ship and not the cruise ship in general. If you want to avoid the airfare, look for ports you can drive to. Databases are available to sort the ports, destinations, special interests and travel dates.

Pay Attention To Your Special Interests

If you are looking for a romantic trip or a trip for the whole family, ensuring your chosen cruise will fulfil your particular interests is essential. Cruise lines offer special events for families, singles, music lovers and many more. Carnival, for instance, offers live concerts with a big name on board in classic rock and country music. If that is your jam, that would be the best cruise to book; if it’s not, look for something that matches your vibe.

Book Last Minute

You will get fantastic deals on your last-minute cruise if you can be flexible with your travel plans. One of the best ways to bag a last-minute deal is to find out how close the departure date is. This allows you to book slots which other travellers have cancelled. This is typically 2 to 3 months before departure.

Most cruise lines will often sell the available spaces at a reduced fare. If you have already booked your cruise, this is a good time to check if you can also get a cabin upgrade. This way, you will sleep in a high-end suit without coughing up the cost.

 Look For Special Discounts

It does not hurt to ask for a discount; it will probably be worth your time. Cruise lines work the same as hotels; they have incentives for travellers, teachers, seniors, Florida residents, the military and many others. Most cruise lines are designed to accommodate different types of passengers and love to offer excellent incentives to outmatch their competitors.

 Get Free Light Bites Throughout the Day

The speciality coffee in coffee shops onboard often comes at an extra fee, but the sandwiches, pastries and other foods on the venue are free. The speciality item will have a charge, but the small bitings do not. You can enjoy biting through the day when you need something to nibble on.

Do not forget to check the free offering from the bars. For instance, on board, the Celebrity Cruise Line, the Martini Bar has complementary snacks for passengers who ask.

 Look Past the Buffet On the Embarkation Day

Once most people board the ship on the first day, they head straight to the buffet for lunch and wait for their cabins to open. It is often a mob scene. Many cruise ships have alternative venues open, like the mini buffet in the atrium area and the solarium. Be sure to check for counter services eateries if you want alternative food. You can also ask the crew to suggest where to have a meal in a calmer environment other than the buffet.

 Book For Your Parking Early

It is essential to ensure your parking is safe and secure when going on your cruise. If you plan to drive to Miami to catch the cruise, consider saving and securing parking for your car. We recommend booking your parking space early to avoid inconveniences due to the upcoming spring break.

At Safe Cruise Parking, we ensure your vehicle is safe while on vacation. You can book your slot early to save some cash. Safe Cruise Parking is at 189 NE SECOND STREET, MIAMI, FL 33132.  Check out some directions to get to our lot below.  Check out some directions to get to our lot below.

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