11 Secrets Cruise Lines Don't Want You to Know

Cruises are a great way to visit different ports on one vacation, as well as partake in any onboard fun like rock climbing, or daily trips to a pool or spa. And of course, there is plenty of yummy food and delicious drinks to enjoy.

But there are also a few secrets the cruise lines may not tell you that can bump up your enjoyment on the ship and relieve some money stress . Check out a few tips and tricks that could make your next cruise extra special.

Email newsletters can contain great deals

As soon as you consider leaving land and begin planning your trip, sign up for email newsletters from several cruise lines and read them whenever they show up. You might catch a deal specifically for subscribers, or a quick pick that can save you money if you pounce on it before it expires.

Ships might not wait for you at port

When a cruise ship sails into port, there are plenty of options for you to explore. Perhaps you want to sign up for an excursion organized through the cruise line. Or maybe you want to try something a little different on your own.

Be aware that if you’re part of an organized cruise trip and you’re running late, the ship will wait in port for you. But if you choose to do something on your own instead, you may watch your cruise sail away with you on shore if you don’t make it back in time.

Hidden cruise costs can sink your budget

There are many hidden cruise costs that may surprise you. For example, soda may be a daily expense you didn’t factor into your budget. Excursion costs also can add up. And there may be extra fees for Wi-Fi.

Cruise lines are counting on you having too much fun to notice the bill you're running up until it’s time to get off the ship. So, try and keep track of these things.

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The daily onboard newsletter might contain more savings

Cruise lines may include a newsletter under your door each night about the next day’s activities. Such newsletters often include information about excursions or details about which restaurants will be open and when.

But cruise lines may also include small notes about freebies, special events, or discounted items. Read up on the news and see if you can find out about those little secrets that your fellow passengers may not be paying attention to.

The main dining room isn’t always the best option

One of the common cruise mistakes people make is to head to the main dining room the first night on the ship. But with so many people going in that direction, some of the specialty restaurants on board may be close to empty.

That could give you the perfect chance to get a seat and enjoy a special selection for a quiet dinner. Do this early in the cruise, because if the restaurant is good, word will get around. Then, you might have to fight for a reservation at the same restaurant later in the trip.

Bad behavior can put in you jail

Have fun on your cruise, but be aware that you can have too much fun — and it might cost you. If you do something illegal, the cruise line may throw you in the jail that is on their ship.

When the cruise arrives at the next port, they might hand you over to the authorities. So, try to moderate your fun, or your cruise might be over much sooner than you expect.

You can get a deal on a repositioning trip

Sometimes, cruise lines want to move their ships from one group of ports to another. Perhaps an Alaskan cruise goes south to Hawaii for the winter, or a ship may simply go to a different set of ports to cruise around for a few months. Book one of these repositioning trips and it might save you some cash.

The drink package isn’t always a bargain

Whether you’re a first-time cruiser or a veteran, you might think it’s great to pick up the drink package for your trip. But before you do that, make sure you do some calculations and check with the cruise line on their policies.

Some cruises may include wine at dinner or might allow you to bring a few bottles on the ship that you can open and have your waiter re-cork for your nightly meals. If so, those factors can be an argument against getting the drink package.

You aren’t limited to one menu option

When you go to dinner in the main dining room, you may be given a menu with several items to choose from that night. This might include a few appetizers, main courses, or even some desserts.

But don’t think you have to limit yourself to one of each. If you see two entrees that sound delicious for the night, try both of them. Or get a few desserts to share among your group instead of limiting yourself to just one. Any additional plates you order often are included in your dinner, so why not indulge while on vacation?

Don't stay on the ship too much

Cruise ship companies would love for you to stay on the ship all day drinking and gambling or spending your money away, but don't forget to get off the ship at ports and explore new surroundings.

Sure, your ship might have an exciting casino and drink specials to keep the good times flowing, but visiting new cities is a great chance to make life-long memories. That slot machine will be waiting for you when you leave the port.

Be flexible on your cabin

Being flexible on which cabin you book is a great way to save money. As long as you don't absolutely require a bigger room or a window, booking an inside cabin may be significantly cheaper.

Just remember to know what kind of traveler you are. If you're someone who spends very little time in the room and can sleep pretty much anywhere, feel free to save some money on the cabin.

Bottom line

A cruise can be a fun way to see the world and get away from the daily grind for a few days. And if you know the secrets that the cruise lines may not share, you can increase your holiday fun.

Try to find cruise lines and itineraries that fit your level of fun and head out on the water for a good time. And don't forget to book your voyage using one of the best travel credit cards for more potential savings.

Money tips that can work for everyone

No matter what your bank account balance is, there's always an opportunity to optimize and improve your finances. Here's a quick checklist of things you can look at today.

Focus on paying off your debt. Debt can hold you back from making progress with your overall financial well-being. Aside from cutting expenses, there are tools that can help you pay off debt faster like balance transfer credit cards and debt counseling.

Earning extra income can give you breathing room. If finances are tight, earning some extra money to supplement your income can make a huge difference. A new job is one option to consider, but if you're not ready to make a big change or already retired, a part-time side job could be a better choice.

Cut your expenses. It sounds painful and so not fun, but it doesn't have to be. Take a look at your biggest expenses because that's where you'll probably find the biggest savings. For example, auto insurance rates have been soaring so shopping around for a new insurance company can be the fastest way to cut your bill. Also, look for ways to cut your grocery bill (despite rising inflation).