According to an annual report compiled by the UK and Ireland cruise industry; British passengers took almost two million cruises in 2017.
This is a new record for the cruising industry with the Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) declaring there were 1,959,000 cruise passengers last year.
With such a range of luxury cruise lines and the accessibility a cruise ship offers holidaymakers, it’s not surprising this figure is on the rise.
However navigating a cruise deal can be a bit of a minefield with so much information to shift through before arrival.
Being a savvy cruiser gives you the edge over first-timers, but this trick, in particular, has the potential to make your money go further.
Dining is one of the most costly aspects of a holiday is, and this is the same with a cruise.
However, Erica Silverstein, Senior Editor at Cruise Critic, revealed there’s a particular trick when it comes to dining that means you can get more for your money.
She explained when eating in the main dining room, “you are not limited to one of each starters, main course and dessert.”
She went on to add: “You can order two entrees or three desserts if you choose.
“You can order two mains or three desserts if you choose.
“You can also order starter-sized portions of a main course or order a few starters for your main meal. It’s a great way to try new foods you’re not sure you’ll like.”
The price of your cabins is another large expensive when booking a cruise with some areas of the ship more costly than others.
Cruise Critic editor, Ashley Kosciolek, told the Express.co.uk: “Cabins fall into different types or categories, and some cruise lines will present as many as 20 or more categories per ship.”
When booking your cruise, its important to chose the one that is right for you and is also in your budget.
One of the most beautiful parts of a cruise is the breathtaking sea views; although the rooms with balconies are more expensive.
However, there is an alternative that still ensures beautiful early morning views.
Kosciolek revealed: “A cheaper alternative are suites that are located at the aft corners of a ship, with balconies that curve around the sides.”
Although further away from the action, these cabins offer more views for less money.
However, if these rooms are still out of your price range, there is a handy trick to ensure you get a sunrise wake up in whatever cabin you choose.
Inside cabins do not have any windows or natural light.
To combat this, some cruise lines have opted for a virtual alternative.
Having rigged cameras to the ship, visitors on some cruise liners can turn on their TV and watch the sun-setting virtually.
Ms Kosciolek explained: “Virtual views are the latest trend for inside cabins that wouldn’t otherwise have a window. Disney and Royal Caribbean, for example, have created ‘magical portholes”’ and ‘virtual balconies’ by using ship-mounted cameras to play real-time images of the sea and port onto high-definition display screens, meant to simulate real cabin windows and add views and light to interior cabins.”
