What is the most affordable and inclusive cruise you all have been on! Doesn’t need to be kid friendly. I really want to go, but don’t want to spend a fortune as I’m on a budget but this mama needs a well deserved vacation.
I loved Royal Caribbean, and went on several of their cruises. It’s cheaper than paying separately for hotels, food, drink, entertainment and transportation to various ports of call.
Royal Caribbean was elegant and so much was included, so you weren’t being nickel and dimed to death, plus they were spacious so you were never waiting in line for anything. Read carefully what’s included in your fee.
Carnival may offer low prices but they may not include everything or you may have long waits for popular activities or seating. You will need to have money to tip most service people onboard regardless of which cruise line you pick, as they make slave wages.
Windjammer-type cruises on small ships tend to be rockier and full of drunk and horny young people, so if that’s your vibe, great, but if not, skip them. Supposedly you can learn something about sailing them if you want though.
Inside rooms with no windows are cheaper, and the idea is to spend most of your time outside of it anyway. Of course special guided excursions, shopping, are extra. If you want to buy art sold in auctions onboard or spa products it will cost you extra, plus gambling money if there is a casino. Spa services like massages and salon services like hair styling are extra too, but you don’t have to do any of this. Check rates to see if they’re comparable to costs where you live though. They could be cheaper, competitive, or way overpriced. Anyone selling anything will give you the hard sell because they make commissions and they are paid slave wages.
Of course there’s plenty to do for free onboard pretty much all the time, and you’ll want to spend some time just sitting around enjoying the view with a drink in your hand, or napping. You can do whatever you want on your own in the time you’re off the ship. Our nightly shows onboard were fabulous and included in the price.
Alcoholic drinks are usually extra, or you may get a daily allowance or coupons for some. You can bring alcohol on board but have to consume it in your room unless you hide it in a flask or opaque water bottle.
There are themed cruises like ‘80s cruises, lecture cruises, and (generally aging) rock star cruises that might be less expensive but still lots of fun if you have an interest in the theme.
Of course the shorter cruises cost less than the longer ones, and if you don’t have to fly a long distance to a port it’s cheaper. Some hotels will let you keep your car in their lot if you spend the night there before boarding. Your room may be cheaper if you have a roommate/double occupancy.
Whatever you do, have fun. I’m sure you will have a blast!