LAST MINUTE CRUISES

Last minute cruises

Your "get up and go" has got up and gone, and you need a vacation. Right now. The best thing about taking a last-minute vacation, is cashing in on the last-minute vacation deals.

Travel agents will tell you that making your cruise ship reservation early can net you big discounts. Most cruise lines offer this incentive to fill the ships with reliable vacationers, and determine if they have enough passengers. On the other hand, last minute cruising can also offer a bunch of discounts.

Last minute cruises can be risky. It's possible that early bird cruisers can fill the ship and leave no space for those hoping for last minute tickets. If you are able to book a last minute deal and you live far away from the airport and seaport, your transportation fares can be very costly. Typically, airline tickets booked last minute tend to be much more expensive than those purchased in advance.

There are other potential problems involved with last minute cruises. You need to be prudent in your research and compare all cruise companies to find the best deals. Some companies offer better departure time deals, intended for cruisers who have no other choice but to book at the last minute. For example, the cruise company can offer increased last minute discounts in order to reach the designated passenger count for each cruise.

If you are thinking about last minute cruises, consider getting a middleman to take care of all the details. Or to save even more money, use the online cruise booking system. Most cruise lines offer this trouble-free booking option that allows you to save time and effort by planning your trip from the comfort of your home or office.

Keep yourself open to flexible cruise plans. It's good to know what you want to do and where you want to go, but don't thumb your nose at one cruise if it doesn't exactly meet your plans. If you find a great deal, grab the opportunity right away. Sometimes the shining stars are hidden inside dark clouds, and it's up to you to find them.

Finding deals on last minute cruises can take solid legwork. But as they say, destiny helps those who help themselves.

Here are some basic tips and strategies to help in your search for last minute cruises:

* Outline places that you'd love to visit. Whenever possible, meet with travel agencies for background knowledge regarding different cruises. Ask around to see if friends, coworkers and associates have any cruise lines they can recommend. You might discover possibilities you'd never even considered, such as an Alaskan cruise.

* Collect cruise brochures and flyers from the travel agencies. Read the material, research each company and compare cruise features. Check out the various ships online, to get background information on atmosphere, amenities, accommodations, on board events and recreation, fares, fees and destinations.

* Determine your budget. Knowing how much money you're willing to spend will help determine what type of cruise you'll be looking for. Cruises can offer a variety of accommodations including cheap, moderate, deluxe and extra-deluxe. Compare all types of cruises so that you'll know what to expect. You'll know which ones you'll find most comfortable, and which will fit your budget.

* Decide how many days you have available for your cruise. Then, find out the duration of the cruises being offered. Travel agencies can usually tell you how long each cruise is. Most trips last five to eighteen days, but some companies offer longer cruises with more things to see and do.

* Last minute cruises are all about fast turnaround time. Use the services of a travel agent to your advantage. Tell the agent about your budget requirements and your personal preferences. Get that person working for you while you take the time to scan brochures and look online to see which cruises are best for you.

* Decide where you'll be departing from, and book your departure points. You'll have clear details and you'll know exactly how much the transportation costs will be.

Last minute cruises can be just the ticket when you need to relax and unwind. Great deals are possible if you're willing to search them out. Do your homework, be a little flexible and it'll be smooth sailing for you.

About the Author:

Nancy Jackson writes for several online magazines, on travel and recreation and outdoor recreation issues.