25 Cheap Cruise Travel Hacks You NEED for 2024!
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Күн бұрынThese new money-saving cruise hacks will help you save money & cruise more in 2024! Cruise prices have increased, so finding cruise deals & saving money when cruising is more important than ever.
In this video I share 25 genius cruise travel hacks you need in 2024! These cruise hacks will help both first time cruisers & pro cruisers alike!
From cruising with travel points, to saving money on cruise drink packages, I've included some of the best travel hacks that will help you have a better cruise this next year!
Whether you cruise with Carnival, Royal Caribbean, Princess Cruises, Celebrity, MSC, Disney, Holland America, Norwegian Cruise Line or any other popular cruise line, these money saving cruise tips will help you save money on your cruise.
Travel tips & money-saving cruise hacks in a Life Well Cruised cruise vlog.
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*Business inquiries & media: please contact Ilana at lifewellcruised@gmail.com
Please note that I am unable to give personal cruise and travel advice. If you leave a comment I try my best to answer.
ABOUT ME
Hi! I'm Ilana! I live in Montreal, Canada with my husband Frank. We can often be found dreaming about and planning future cruises, ideally to hot and sunny destinations! I believe in having fun, being kind and that you are never too old, or too young, to live the life of your dreams!
Please note that I do not sell cruises on Life Well Cruised. This and all other videos are for entertainment purposes only. I share my own opinions, personal experiences and information with other cruise travellers, which I hope can be helpful. Please contact your travel agent or the cruise line directly for advice and any information specific to your booking.
Some B-Roll footage for this video courtesy of RCCL & NCHC
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Music Credit: Surf Time by Lux-InspiraMusicMusic
@LifeWellCruised 6 ай бұрын
Planning a cruise? Get The Ultimate Cruise Planner. It's a 47 page cruise travel planner with packing checklists, shore excursion planning forms and much more! ($10 off for a limted time). Details here: lifewellcruised.com/ultimate-cruise-planner/
@annetteabbott5612 5 ай бұрын
I love this Planner!! So helpful with everything!!
@LifeWellCruised 5 ай бұрын
@@annetteabbott5612 I’m so glad you like it! Thanks for your purchase ☺️
@JavierBardem09 3 ай бұрын
Thank you so so very much for all your tips. Super helpful 🙏❤👍Have an upcoming Carnival cruise to Half Moon Cay and Nassau, Bahamas. You did mention about driving to the Cruise port and we are doing that and would you recommend the cruise port parking or a private private who offer a cheaper price. "Safe cruise parking" is right near the Miami port. Any idea on this??
@jataenrucker1015 3 ай бұрын
Just ordered! So helpful! Sailing in June
@catieorth7686 6 ай бұрын
One of our little hacks: we only cruise once a year (due to budget and work schedules) but throughout the year, we purchase restaurant gift cards… we buy one per month and put them with our passports…. That way, all of our meals are covered for the road trip to and from port, as well as extras for while we are at the hotel. When cruise time comes, it is wonderful not to have to worry about these things!!!
@LifeWellCruised 6 ай бұрын
So smart 👏
@DrixxMadison 6 ай бұрын
Don't forget you can also save 10% by buying the cruise line's gift card through AARP. (There's no minimum age to be a member 👀).
@barbaraswindlehurst4386 6 ай бұрын
Kroger has gift cards and I have purchased Carnival & Hollland America cards at my local grocers. I purchase the gift card for my upcoming cruise and get gas points so I save money in at least two ways.
@lenaapple1974 5 ай бұрын
That is an awesome hack! :)
@valenciawhitehead9589 5 ай бұрын
Great tip! And around the holidays, many merchants offer bonus cards with the purchase of any card.
@barbaralazier8352 6 ай бұрын
1. I got a pre-paid Visa Conversion card through the bank. I load the amount I have budgeted for the cruise. I can covert it into any currency that I wish. The biggest bonus-there are no foreign transaction fees to pay. 2. I put a fixed amount into my Travel account each month. It is amazing how painless it is and it mounts up fast.
@anitaclue9868 6 ай бұрын
Great plan!
@madgeclarke6128 5 ай бұрын
Wowo thank for the information iam going and a group cruise it my first time
@1hope4beauty 2 ай бұрын
That’s really smart
@marshillmike 6 ай бұрын
A balcony is essential to me and my wife. Warm weather, cold weather, I'm not going to scenic locations and not be able to step outside on my own balcony to enjoy the scenery. That includes Antartica next month.
@rjnolesRU 5 ай бұрын
I totally agree and I always bring a SW radio (I'm a ham and can't bring a transceiver, but I love sampling local and distant radio on the balcony) also I recommend binoculars for the balcony. Happy cruising!
@PamelaVMason 4 ай бұрын
@@rjnolesRU I brought binoculars on our cruise to Spain and Rome. Lots of beautiful details way way way up in the ceilings and domes of the cathedrals there!
@sonnyc4105 6 ай бұрын
A lot of great ideas. This is for the late night snacker. I bring a plastic tupperware container for cookies and other bakery items from the buffet for late night munching.
@patricianeubert642 4 ай бұрын
Or zip lock plastic bags.
@c4l977 4 ай бұрын
I do the same. I like to get chips from the buffet for when I have a salty craving.
@kittiyasaengduenchai4300 3 ай бұрын
I never go cruise before but is it allow to take food from buffet? .I plan to go on cruise so need lots of info.Thanks
@amycrunk9244 Ай бұрын
Yes you can fix a plate at the buffet and take it to your cabin
@jackiegromacki686 6 ай бұрын
Since you can't bring a heating pad bring hot hands packets. If you need them for cramps.
@lindatonya197 2 ай бұрын
I always take my heating pad for back pain 😮
@joed7125 6 ай бұрын
All good advice, my favorite is "Travel Insurance" ALWAYS, ALWAYS, ALWAYS get travel insurance. Face it, most people could eat the cost of their trip if something unforseen happened. However, it's my understanding that if your from the US your health insurance does not cover you once you leave the US. A sickness or injury abroad could cost thousands and you are at their mercy. The bill has to be paid before you leave. We have witnessed this ourselves once on a cruise. Someone fell hard on the pier, Carnival couldn't help as they have no liability there, they laid there until someone from the port came and got them.Yes other passengers helped as much as they could, but that only goes so far. Travel insurance is super cheap for what it covers. If can afford to cruise, you can afford travel insurance.'
@lauraashlock7053 6 ай бұрын
If you are cruising out of Tampa, FL, there is a free streetcar that runs from downtown hotels to the cruise terminals. We recently saw many people taking advantage of this service in Tampa.
@jodijanz4991 6 ай бұрын
My partner is so picky! We are spending a lot more than we need to on our next cruise because he won't budge on cabin type, etc. So, I make him pay the difference! Lol
@sunseekermama 6 ай бұрын
That sounds reasonable to me😅
@eminiarvii 6 ай бұрын
@@sunseekermamaand reasonable for me too
@afrisbee7695 6 ай бұрын
Where's a SAFE and inexpensive place to park in Fort Lauderdale? Tia
@LifeWellCruised 6 ай бұрын
Haha nothing wrong with that 😉
@sandrawilkinson2557 6 ай бұрын
@@afrisbee7695 when cruising I find a hotel that offers park and cruise. There are some hotels that not only offer free parking, but a shuttle also.
@marthagrant143 6 ай бұрын
We have booked with private shore excursion providers several times, and we have always had excellent experiences. We research carefully looking at reviews on Cruise Critic, Trip Advisor, and other review sites. My rule of thumb has been how far away is the excursion destination, how safe is the destination, etc. Sometimes the private excursion has not been much cheaper, but the group is smaller, making the overall experience more personal and time efficient. I have found that the providers are very cognizant of departure time for the ship, and they get us back with plenty of time to spare. In fact, the one time we got back to the ship late, we were on a ship excursion. Of course, the ship waited for us, but our other travel companions who had been on private excursions were on board watching for us to get back. How funny is that?
@LifeWellCruised 6 ай бұрын
Thanks for sharing your experiences
@samanthahoover2238 6 ай бұрын
I was lookking on line at trip advisor and all the other sites that you mentioned in this comment and am not sure how to book an excursion with them?
@lenaapple1974 5 ай бұрын
Just a note, things happen - so while they may be very wary of ship departure time, as they do want people to come back to them - the ship will NOT wait should something hold you up on a private excursion! But as you said, be mindful of the distance etc too.
@haggiskiwi 6 ай бұрын
#18 GET TRAVEL INSURANCE. GET TRAVEL INSURANCE. GET TRAVEL INSURANCE. We had to cancel a transpacific cruise, travel insurance probably saved us 10s of 1000s of $s.
@blackestabyss 3 ай бұрын
This is how I save money to take on the cruise... in the time leading up to the cruise - when I'm out shopping for groceries, or whatever else I need, every time I check out at a register that gives the choice for "cash back", I get a $20 and stash it away for my trip. It adds up quick!
@amycrunk9244 Ай бұрын
Me too!! I have a pocket I hide it in and start building a stash!!
@Dave17101 6 ай бұрын
3:50 A tip on refilling your water bottles. Do not refill them directly into the bottle. Use cup or glass and then pour it into you bottle. I cannot tell you how many times I have seen the tops of refillable water bottles hitting the spout where the water comes out. I see people leave bathrooms without washing why would I expect them to wash their water bottles?🤢
@roblampley 5 ай бұрын
We are taking our first cruise in 25 years (anniversary), and I came across this video, specifically the part about checking with the cruise line to ensure you have the best price. I made a phone call and based on that call I will be saving $1,500 and was able to get the drink package, save $400 on excursions, and get 2 specialty meals. So, in all, it saved me upwards of $3,000. Thanks, Ilana, for the great advice. The cruise line said that I could call every day up to 120 days before the cruise and they would adjust the price. After that, they would only adjust one more time inside of the 120 days.
@mariareyes-ku6194 2 ай бұрын
I personally do that for my cruise and for my clients because I am a travel agent. On our last cruise, I checked the pricing on RCCL’s website (my TA access) and found the cabin price went down by over $300. I adjusted the price and they reimbursed that money back. If the price goes down after you do the final payment, they can reimburse it or add it to your cabin as onboard credit.❤
@dstnyEPT 6 ай бұрын
RCL has the "Drink of the Day"--depending on which ship you're on, they can range in $5 each up to about $12 each, but is cheaper than buying a regular-priced drink--and gives you a chance to try a new drink at a discounted price!
@mariareyes-ku6194 2 ай бұрын
I totally agree with this one. If you want to enjoy a drink, get the drink of the day.
@funcatvideos3732 6 ай бұрын
We go on Spring Break each year. Starting in January I label 50 envelopes with the numbers 1 through 50. Each week, I fill a few envelopes with cash according to amount on the envelope. That was I have alittle over $1200 for tipping and the casino. I always have some leftover at the end of the cruise
@LifeWellCruised 6 ай бұрын
Love this!!
@tanikokishimoto1604 6 ай бұрын
One thing about snorkel gear... I wear glasses; buying the eye mask with lenses appropriate to your eyesight is a must if you want to see anything other than blurs. You'd have to do this on your own ahead of time. (I have not taken them on a cruise - but on a vacation in Great Exuma, they performed stellar). No, you don't need prescription level. You just will want to see!
@jodeegu 5 ай бұрын
Excellent advice! My 20 y/o hated snorkeling and refused to go with me. Then she mentioned that she couldn’t see anything anyway. Whoa! I never thought about how nearsighted she is. I bought her a mask with lenses that were right for her prescription and it changed everything. Now she loves snorkeling and is planning to learn to scuba dive.
@allyrooh3628 6 ай бұрын
I bring the crystal light packets and a water bottle and that way I always have flavored water. Three packages are usually included as a perk when I book my cruises but I still take them because I don’t always want soda and I sometimes just wanna make a drink in my room.
@mariareyes-ku6194 2 ай бұрын
I totally recommend that too and we do it when we travel. It saves you on drinks and calories.❤
@cadybh 6 ай бұрын
First cruise departs early next week and I am binge watching your videos to absorb as much as possible. Awesome video as usual, Ilana!
@LifeWellCruised 6 ай бұрын
So exciting!! Have an amazing cruise!!
@dingomom95 6 ай бұрын
@@LifeWellCruised I have to second this statement. I am cruising in 219 days and have binge watching your videos for over 2 months now. Thank you for the information. This cruise is on my bucket list. So excited to cruise.
@shelleyrichards4487 6 ай бұрын
Good job you guys! Her videos are spot on and so very helpful. I also like Sheri with cruise tips TV. Enjoy your trips and you will be hooked cruising after that!
@dingomom95 6 ай бұрын
@@shelleyrichards4487 I can't imagine loving being on the ocean more then when I was in the Navy. I always vowed when I got out I would go on a cruise and not work. I'm looking forward to it.
@tracielang9500 6 ай бұрын
Us too on the 13th
@brettparnell8254 6 ай бұрын
We were on NCL Escape last month. My mom and dad bid $120 CAD pp and were upgraded all the way from a interior to an XL balcony.
@Pavelpetuniablue 4 ай бұрын
Hope you don't mind my ? but where does this bid thing get involved? I've cruised 20 times and have never encountered this. If You're onboard the ship that means you've already paid.
@brettparnell8254 4 ай бұрын
@@Pavelpetuniablue NCL sends out emails to people before their cruise to bid and puts it in the cruiseline app
@lvredgrl5201 2 ай бұрын
@@brettparnell8254Celebrity too.
@michaelheckman9576 6 ай бұрын
Also, sometimes I know just what you’re going to say about a particular topic…. but I listen anyway because it’s just comforting somehow.
@richardgotshall2703 6 ай бұрын
On port-intensive cruises, we book an inside cabin since there won’t be much of a chance to watch from a balcony.
@cindydobby6298 6 ай бұрын
My money saving tip is to book an obstructed balcony, usually much less than a regular balcony cabin
@cbradyorganize 4 ай бұрын
We often do this when booking a suite and don't really notice much, if any obstruction.
@iancarbarns 4 ай бұрын
You mean book an OBSTRUCTED balcony?
@mariareyes-ku6194 2 ай бұрын
Obstructed cabins or interior cabins are the less expensive one depending on the cabin category.
@user-iw8wn5le4d 6 ай бұрын
Unlike many others we always take the ships excursions if we can not walk to what we wish to see. We have had two private tours that caused us a lot of stress even though we were able to get back to the ship both times. The difference in price is not worth having that stress on what is suppose to be a relaxing time away from the every day.
@troplightn 5 ай бұрын
I do the same, but have found some of the larger third party excursion companies also have the back in time guarantee. We have done a couple and had good experiences so now I am considering more of them.
@lenaapple1974 5 ай бұрын
@@troplightn I bet those are the same companies that do the actual ship excursions. I am not sure how they would have guarantees since the ship only guarantees ship excursions if not back on time. I think that is the only way around that.
@teresachapman7959 6 ай бұрын
We live in Georgia and always drive to Florida ports when we cruise. We park at the port parking lot for a daily rate. We find it less of a hassle with luggage handling, as well as, cheaper to travel. We always enjoy the road trip to Florida. Thanks for your great advice.
@lenaapple1974 5 ай бұрын
I have to say, I have done a few alternate options for parking. The best one I have found is the premier garages in Miami. Their shuttles are quick and it isn't far. We drop off the bags and everyone else and my husband takes the car to park, and shuttles back so it is faster. I have only done port parking in Ft Lauderdale, WPB and Pt Canaveral. I personally don't mind the increase in price for all the convenience that comes with it! Love the park and sail hotels!
@BeefromSC 6 ай бұрын
I already do several of these tips! I just thought a few days ago to start saving my small bills in my cruise jar for upcoming December cruise to Jamaica!!! I also take a few snacks on the cruise like a snicker bar, M&M’s; I always want to take Skinny Pop Popcorn for my movies on the Lido Deck or the cabin, but packing space!! A few ziplock baggies is also good to grab a few cookies from the buffet area, or your snacks to carry off when walking around the Port areas. Thanks for sharing 🛳️🛳️
@LifeWellCruised 6 ай бұрын
Awesome! Thanks for sharing
@mariannelovespink 6 ай бұрын
My biggest tip for cruising is before you go on a beach, excursion, private island, be sure to hit the buffet line and fill up your backpack with food for the day. Otherwise, you’ll be paying way too much at the concession stand. They don’t search your backpack on the way out, so fill it up, but make sure you eat it all before coming back on because they search on the way back in.
@applesofgold2622 5 ай бұрын
She mentioned in another video not to bring food off the ship because you can get fined.
@kelseyjarman1272 5 ай бұрын
Depending in the port you can't take off food. I have young boys who are always hungry so I'm a snacks person. I had pancakes in our diaper bag in cozumel and we got in trouble in cozumel
@rushkrish123 5 ай бұрын
They allow snacks like cookies or bars as such but the fruits and vegetables of any kind are prohibited.
@sandraridgway1282 4 ай бұрын
Many places you are not allowed to take fruit off the ship. We have seen agents on the pier with dogs, who are sniffing backpacks and bags, and signal when they smell fruit. Fruit carries a risk of introducing invasive pests. I always take cookies though!
@blissfuljoy6049 23 күн бұрын
Wow, pancakes? I wonder if it's because they are not prepackaged. @@kelseyjarman1272
@Nicole44541 6 ай бұрын
Thank you for all the tips!
@loreleilawson5296 6 ай бұрын
Thanks for the great advice!
@daynacartier8641 6 ай бұрын
Omg….you just blew my mind with the Sangria and mimosa suggestions!!!! My husband and I don’t drink much and we would bring bottles of wine, however this is fantastic! It would last longer and who doesn’t love a mimosa in the sunshine ☀️. We will definitely try this on our cruise next month! This Canadian thanks you! 💕 Love you videos 😃
@dawnpowers7626 6 ай бұрын
Book an inside cabin. Works better on a smaller ship because they're the ones with more outside public spaces open to the public.
@Batantinha 6 ай бұрын
Thank you for the amazing tips ! You’re the best 💛
@mommunson 6 ай бұрын
Ty you have gave me so many tips and ideas. I just wanted to thank you.🌹
@user-vl1xs5is5h 5 ай бұрын
Excellent video. Thank you for these savings ideas.
@beckyshinlever5142 6 ай бұрын
Thank you for all of the information.
@kathleenabell5933 6 ай бұрын
I love the cruise planner!
@gentremblay869 6 ай бұрын
What a great idea for the sangria! Thank you, I will try it during my cruise in Patagonia in March!
@cruisingwithkristie 6 ай бұрын
Love your DIY drinks!❤
@rosshageman951 6 ай бұрын
I agree with the drive to the port idea. We live close enough to Baltimore and drove there for a cruise in 2023. It was great.
@carolgravius9312 6 ай бұрын
I have heard so many tips and tricks through the years but you definitely have the best!! I love the diy beer and wine tips. I will definitely do this on my next cruise. Thank you for the way you present your information. You always get right to it. Congratulations on your success. You deserve it!❤
@heavenranchwy 6 ай бұрын
Love your videos!!
@cindyann9571 6 ай бұрын
Happy New Year🎉 thank you for all the great tips!! I am saving small bills in a jar as we speak for my cruise in March❤
@scottwalker7939 6 ай бұрын
thank you for your videos. wife and I go next week for our first time. I'm sooo excited and nervous all at once..lol
@queen_calixta 3 ай бұрын
we’re about to go on our first cruise and your videos are super helpful. much appreciated 🥰
@dalemills7926 5 ай бұрын
Hi Llana , just got off one this morning ..love your tips ! I love living here in Florida...we too need these tips also
@sarahgilbert2124 6 ай бұрын
Thank you so much for your videos, we are taking first cruise in Jan 2025, so you are very helpful to be prepared a head of time. Thank you again.
@user-wj5nk8zb6b Ай бұрын
Great advice information thank you 👍🇬🇧
@eminiarvii 6 ай бұрын
Hi Illana 1. Took a tour by the company Tours by locals in Curacao It was 9 Hours and included, cultural, sightseeing all over the island, walking tour, beach, stop at a local restaurant for only..ta dah. 120 dollars it was one if the best tours having a tour guide who was born and raised there and saved a bundle of money from what would be offered on ship. 2. I opened a second savings account and put all extra money into it and a regular small draft from my checking to go there…out of site out of mind for my cruise extras. 3. The other recommendation like i did on an ncl cruise is to get a lower grade cabin ( i usually get a balcony) i do not mind interior cabins) and spend some of the money saved for a specialty area. It was the Vibe and i still came out less but still had a quieter more relaxing place because of no balcony. 4. Your planner is in full use for my upcoming 2025 21 day cruise❤🙂🚢. Thx Lynn
@LifeWellCruised 6 ай бұрын
These tips are great! Love the idea of the splurge on Vibe while saving on the cabin 👏
@jamieburton8329 Ай бұрын
Your little helper is just so darling! How sweet you can travel with her. Thank you for another helpful and informative video.
@KLH631 6 ай бұрын
We had two days in port in Bermuda and booked our excursions direct with the company. I saved so much money that way! Definitely brought my own 1st aid kit too.
@jesusxfreak2 5 ай бұрын
If you are an AARP member you can find some of the gift cards for some cruise lines and it may be a discount. We sail Carnival and save $10 per $100 gift card. We buy these before the cruise. And if you are not an AARP member I would still suggest putting money onboard ahead of time that way you're not having to pay for everything all at once.
@daltman23 5 ай бұрын
You can pay for your cruise with these too. And they sell $500 cards as well.
@user-ib4uy4yl6z 6 ай бұрын
Love your tips I would definitely recommend travel insurance
@marshas9255 5 ай бұрын
We just got off the Rotterdam on January 14. As four star HAL mariners, we have been on many of their ships. Even though I generally prefer a smaller ship, the Rotterdam was wonderful. We were in a veranda about four rooms foreword of the foreword elevator on the navigation deck. This allowed us to only climb one flight of stairs to get to the pool, Lido buffet and bar. All of the food is excellent and so is the service. We have three more cruises booked this year, 14, 7, and 51 days. We generally book veranda, however agree that Vista is nice for a group of three and we have a signature suite on Westerdam for that long cruise. Extra space to sit and entertain friends is important as are the double sinks. Thanks for your wonderful presentations. Even with over 100 cruise nights, I always learn something new from your videos. Thanks.
@sunseekermama 6 ай бұрын
I just love your diy sangria idea Ilana! I do use the shareholder perk for sure! I also change my c.c. category to travel right before I pay in full, and use that "cash back reward" to pre-purchase obc.
@stellamullis 6 ай бұрын
I love your hacks!
@DonLekei 6 ай бұрын
I almost always book my own excursions unless I have a lot of OBC or the port stay is short enough to be a concern. It not only saves money but 4 to 12 people on a trip is so much better than 40+ on a ship excursion. On one cruise we selected a combination that it turned out nobody else chose that day and we ended up with just us a driver and a guide and a tour of the Panama locks and just the two of us visiting an Embari village. It was like being on The Bachelor!
@breannapierce5937 3 ай бұрын
Love your videos !!!!!❤❤
@sassycat0222 6 ай бұрын
My first cruise was september and we had an oceanview cabin. I really enjoyed it. However, we are going to Alaska this September and we splurged on a balcony
@leighmeyer5982 5 ай бұрын
Love these tips! I'm definitely going to try your room-made sangria! On our Celebrity cruise last month, bringing on board two bottles of wine between my husband and me and purchasing the zero proof beverage package absolutely worked. The zero proof still gives you smoothies, fresh juices, specialty coffees, sparkling water. My husband doesn't drink alcohol, and I drink primarily wine and coffee. Two bottles for me for a week was perfect (plus we had included sparkling wine when we upgraded to concierge by bidding.) I still enjoyed a glass of wine at dinner from our sommelier's suggestion that was put on our tab, but we had onboard credit by booking with a travel agent.
@suem5477 5 ай бұрын
Hi! Thanks for your amazing videos. Finally flying to Greece and taking an Aegean cruise in the summer. Starting to prepare now. Looking for any hints, packing tips, etc. 😀
@patti1044 5 ай бұрын
We rarely take a cruise line tour unless it involves travel a distance from the port. We did discover excellent audio tours when we were in Europe last summer - download into your phone. Start at the point that you are given and the tour is at your pace. Last year it was raining in Prague and we could walk at our pace, then stop for a coffee if we wanted. Worked great as well because time was not limited . We also enjoy finding a local food tasting tour if the time works - group has always been small and the tour so interesting.
@pattyfourboysandanlgirl5803 5 ай бұрын
I purchased the Ultimate Cruise Planner for our upcoming cruise on Celebrity's Ascent departing January 14th. It has been an invaluable tool! I definitely took advantage of the holiday sales for excursions!
@jeffdinter600 6 ай бұрын
Yes I use shipmate to track prices for my cruise. And for our 2024 Alaska cruise according to my travel agent, we have saved close to around 6 to $800 that's not too bad
@davidtowne1196 6 ай бұрын
Travel insurance I learned the hard way. Had a 8 day cruise at the end of covid booked on RC. Our early morning flight from Hartford was delayed numerous times due to a tornado watehes up and down the east coast. By the time we got to Miami and to the port (20 minutes late) RC denied us boarding. The ship was still there and hadn't departed.It was the first weekend of spring break. We lost the whole cruse fare. RC did nothing for us. Luckily we found a room to stay in that night and got on a Norwegian cruise for 7 days the following day. Needless to say our $1800 dollar vacation turned into a $4500 dollar vacation because we hadn't gotten travel insurance.
@TravelWithCeleste 6 ай бұрын
So sad.
@lynnleipold2617 6 ай бұрын
Thanks!
@jimwisnieski6355 6 ай бұрын
Wow 🎉❤🚢 you made it to 250K subscribers. Congrats!! Keep up the great videos and you’ll be at 500K in no time. Enjoy your cruise!!
@LifeWellCruised 6 ай бұрын
Awe thanks!! 😊
@karenhall9661 3 ай бұрын
Thank you. I love your videos. I’m a travel advisor and do recommend using a travel advisor. I can save clients money on cruise, even if they are loyalty members. Always get insurance. Excursions on other companies other than cruise itself are usually less expensive and smaller.
@brendawaye7551 6 ай бұрын
We’re a group of 4 from NS Canada and we’re driving to Florida to also save some travel expenses. Also spending time before and after our cruise in Florida.
@CruisingEngineer 6 ай бұрын
To save money on a Disney cruise (that's a whole topic in itself) we use the "Sommelier Bin' in the lounges. The Sommelier Bin are open bottles of wine that have maybe a glass or two still in the bottle. The bartender has access to the bin. You say you want a red, a white, or a champagne and the bartender shows you what is available and you get a glass or maybe more to empty the bottle (just saying on experience) for $10.
@meddyven 6 ай бұрын
This is super clever and perfect, without going overboard on a full bottle.
@CruisingEngineer 6 ай бұрын
@@meddyven Yes, and I've tried new wines and champagnes that I normally would not order because they were very expensive.
@LifeWellCruised 6 ай бұрын
Wow! Love this tip! Thanks for sharing
@keithabuckingham3379 5 ай бұрын
Have used Viator and Shore Excursion group. Both great. Can get Rakuten rebates with Viator.
@sandramacpherson6896 6 ай бұрын
When I have $1.00 and $5.00 bills I put them away. Depending on how long before I travel I can end up with quite a bit. I do this even when I do not have a trip or cruise planned.
@queetbeet312 6 ай бұрын
I PAID MY MONEY!!!! And i want it back😂. I dig the show everyday ❤
@PeruvianClaudiaNV 6 ай бұрын
great money tip savings for cash port!
@laurenschenck5355 6 ай бұрын
Those drinks sounds delicious llana! 🛳️🛳️🛳️🛳️🛳️🛳️🛳️🛳️🛳️🛳️🛳️🛳️🛳️🛳️🛳️🛳️🛳️🛳️🛳️🛳️🛳️🛳️🛳️🛳️🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉
@jackredmond6023 6 ай бұрын
We love your beautiful Buddy! We used to go to the Art Auction to get free Champagne. The Champagne is not very good, but was worth going for a little while. Of course, don’t buy any items at the auction as that will wipe out all of the savings! 😂
@helciobmello 6 ай бұрын
Nive video as always. Please let me add the following: 1. 3:47 Better to use a glass to refill your bottle 2. If you have to fly or drive to the embarkation port, consider a back-to-back cruise so that the flight/drive cost is diluted among the cruises you take. 3. About the shareholder benefits, you do not have to buy 100 shares on the same day. If you like you can buy some as the price drops until you reach 100. However unless you are familiar with the stocks market you better turn to someone who is just in case. 4. If you are a gambler you can get discounts or even a free cruise at the casino. Even if you do not bet too much you will end up getting offers by e-mail. Cheers!
@LifeWellCruised 6 ай бұрын
Thanks for sharing
@MrWatlow 6 ай бұрын
My wife and I both got offers for a free interior room on Royal Caribbean Casino offers. They allowed us to combine those two interior room offers into one ocean view offer and then they allowed us to add a little extra money to it for a balcony. The amount of money we took to gamble with was $1500. Out of that we only spent $920. And came home with the remainder. When we upgraded the casino offer we added $170 to it to get the balcony; so that along with the port fees that we had to pay the cruise actually cost us $1430. We did some research for the same balcony if we just went to Royal Carribean‘s website to book it, it was $3600. So we saved over 50% by going to the casino and gambling. We are very happy!😁😁😁😁😁
@sandraridgway1282 4 ай бұрын
I have a Royal Caribbean Visa. I charge whatever I can, and pay my bill in full each month. I use my rewards points for onboard credit on Royal and Celebrity, and use the credit for our gratuities. We cruise several times a year, and this has saved me a lot of money.
@joannenelson5764 13 күн бұрын
I love that you let your little Abby be in your video! We are taking our first cruise this October and enjoyed and benefitted from your videos! Thank you for all the tips!
@jasonalexander5249 6 ай бұрын
For driving to the port, I am from Montreal also and am willing to take on the drive for a nice cruise, Cape Liberty is also an interesting option since it’s closer to home and though those itineraries are usually Bermuda and the Bahamas, those cruises are for the ships more than the destinations
@kristenyaworsky6973 5 ай бұрын
Ilana I love your videos! You share such some great cruise information. I have a question please. How do you prove you are a shareholder for a particular cruise line? Also does the shareholder credit apply to just yourself or both you and your husband? Thanks again for your great videos!
@pamelam890 6 ай бұрын
Not cruise related but we will be in Montreal in May celebrating my son's high school graduation. What is the number one thing to do. Love your channel.
@raxterwot7940 6 ай бұрын
We always drive to the cruise ports. Nowadays air travel is so crazy with delays and cancellations. Since we are retired, there's no rush to get to the port and no rush to get home.And we try to plan our routes to stay off interstates, get to see alot more scenery and local flavor...
@kaytomlin5856 Ай бұрын
Our cruise is Aug 27. I know how to pack for Caribbean cruises. Alaska is a first-time, and I'm thankful for all the advice.
@sheltonmcmillian677 3 ай бұрын
I was cruising before specialty dining. It seems like all the Meals on the buffet and in the dining room were much better then.
@ellensaslovsky6838 5 ай бұрын
We have used Viator tour company many times and have found them to be excellent
@michaelheckman9576 6 ай бұрын
Ilana, your dog is sweet. But they are definitely family. So can you give us some ideas about pet sitting / kennels / pet worries, etc. It’s always one of my biggest concerns.
@annaburton768 5 ай бұрын
Using a Southwest travel cc has accrued me many free flights that I have used to get to cruise ports Highly recommend!!
@lorijennings8628 5 ай бұрын
I just got two rt tickets from chgo to Seattle for July alaska cruise with points from southwest cc. Big savings
@robertk4552 6 ай бұрын
We are a family of 5 and have driven to Florida 3 times for cruises from Austin, TX. 6 days hotel (3 each way), food, plus cruise parking fee was far cheaper than flying 5 of us.
@happycruiser 6 ай бұрын
If you are CDN or US military, active or retired, ensure you get your credits or discounts on various cruise lines. Also see if you can get military discount at hotels. We use Marriott who does great military discounts.
@joedesando4440 6 ай бұрын
WOW, 250K subscribers. Enjoy your cruise, and thank you for all the tips.
@LifeWellCruised 6 ай бұрын
Thank you!!
@januaryliddell808 5 ай бұрын
We are flying from Hawaii, so any money saved is a huge plus. I have repriced a few times and also asked about a military discount. I also use Groupon when we’re porting in the states. Instead of using a shuttle , we use Uber, I find that it’s cheaper to travel this way. Thank you for the DIY Sangria and mimosa. I’ll be trying that this April! I may even practice even before the cruise :-) I signed up for Cruise Watch and Cruise line. If our balcony cabin price drops, I’ll post again. Thank you for creating this video! It was so helpful!
@user-jg5ws9gr8n 4 ай бұрын
Tip Try driving to Hawaii next time
@DRoth2150 6 ай бұрын
Here are two tips of mine: 1. Consider flying in an extra day early. If you can save $100/person on airfare by flying in a day sooner and the extra night in a hotel is $200, you can save money depending on how many people are in your party. A family of 4 could save $200 in this scenario. 2. Leverage a savings account to save and pay for your cruise. Instead of making monthly payments, put money in a higher interest savings account with no minimum deposit. I'm taking this approach for a cruise I have in September. I'll earn over $100 in interest between when I started saving and when I make final payment. That's not life changing but I'd be a fool to leave that on the table.
@LifeWellCruised 6 ай бұрын
Great tips
@Michele11798 6 ай бұрын
@ catie- Me too!! This year I seem to have been gifted at least 5 restaurant gift cards & im saving them for the two cruises we have planned this year
@drfabsoonjd 6 ай бұрын
Thanks! I buy clearance sunscreen with coupons after summer clearance. Saves tons of $$. I also do the same for travel size shampoo etc. I hope to try the shampoo and conditioner bars next time too
@LifeWellCruised 6 ай бұрын
Good tip
@queenscatsandcastles 4 ай бұрын
I save with my direct deposit with a % going directly into an account for my vacations. Also pack clothes that do not wrinkle. Saves time and money. Bring your own first aid kit, over the counter meds, sewing kit, make up, & toiletries. Purchase the photo packages ahead of time. Save 10-20%. Because you will want the professional photos. Bring a travel mug to take on your excursions & for use on the ship!
@debbiehenderson4821 6 ай бұрын
Great video as always! We are going by bus with a group of 26 family & friends on May 18 this year We will celebrate our anniversary as well as my sister & daughters birthdays! We always take an extensive medical kit - most things in my medicine cabinet We will be buying our cards for Deal or No Deal before boarding as we get an extra card for same price! Happy Cruising 🇨🇦🇨🇦🇨🇦💜💜💜💜
@LifeWellCruised 6 ай бұрын
That’s awesome 👏
@cheriedoughan5583 6 ай бұрын
We are Hilton Honors members. We have been able to park our for 14 days for free plus they have shuttles to ship.
@dancehallmango 4 ай бұрын
Which hotel in Miami?
@Puglover130 6 ай бұрын
Wow that shareholder tip is something I never heard about!! And for some the pricing would really make sense. Carnival (so also Princess, holland and Cunard) is cheap as is NCL. However MSC and RC wouldn’t make much sense if you were investing just for the perk. You can get Carnival or NCL (100 shares) for about $1200! Would really work esp if you go on long cruises - $250 credit per cruise!
@barbb 6 ай бұрын
The shareholder perk will depend on how you book the cruise. If you get a deal (ie casino offer) you will not be able to get that perk. FYI
@LisaPinTN 6 ай бұрын
@@barbb I take advantage of free rooms from the casino all the time and have never been refused stock perks for obc on Princess.
@StlDave1 6 ай бұрын
I bring my own snorkeling gear because I have the prescription lens so I can see. 😊
@lorijennings8628 5 ай бұрын
I would love some recommendations for night before cruise hotel suggestions in seattle pier 91 i believe. I prefer airport transportation to hotel and from hotel to port
Life Well Cruised
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Life Well Cruised
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