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Set Sail for Less, Cruise Discounts
Date: May 18, 2006
Author: David Smidt, SeniorDiscounts.com

Taking a cruise is not just for the wealthy anymore. Cruise vacations have become financially affordable and cruise lines recognize seniors as important customers, resulting in promotions and discounts to attract them. A cruise can be a great way to see some new and exotic places, spend some time with a loved one, or to meet new people. Below are some things to look for while booking a cruise, as well as discounts you can expect to find.

Think about what you would like to do on your cruise. Do you want a cruise that offers in-depth sight seeing and education about the locations you are visiting? Or are you looking for a relaxing getaway where you can simply pamper yourself? Would you enjoy an expedition cruise to exotic and rugged places, or a theme cruise with topics that can range from dancing to bridge tournaments? There are also yacht cruises, river cruises, senior cruises or singles cruises. Almost anything you can imagine is available, so spend some time thinking about what you want from your cruise vacation.

Consider also what size ship you would like to go on. There are intimate, small, medium and large cruise ships. Size can affect the social atmosphere as well as the service and convenience. Larger ships tend to have more conveniences and services, while smaller ships may provide a more intimate setting and access to smaller ports and out of the way locations.

Before you book a cruise make sure you ask the correct questions. Find out if formal dress is required for dinners and what other clothes are necessary to bring. Ask about extra costs and tipping. Does it cost extra to do certain activities? Are meals included in the cost of the trip and when are meal times? Check to see if tipping is customary. Whom do you tip and how much? If you need prescription medication, make sure you bring enough for the entire trip and inquire about any regulations you may need to follow.

There are many senior discounts available in the cruise line industry, but they can be difficult to locate and compare to other deals. The senior discounts tend to change often and can have many rules and regulations. Most cruise lines will not advertise the senior specials online, so you must ask a travel agent or reservations department for it. The good news is that many of the cruise lines will offer a senior discount to a companion of any senior traveler, regardless of age.

Some of the Cruise lines that do offer senior discounts are: Carnival, Celebrity, Norwegian, Royal Caribbean, Holland America and Windstar. Discounts can range from $25 to hundreds of dollars depending on the type of cruise. Age requirements usually start around 55 years of age.

Two companies SeniorDiscounts is currently working with are Travel Value Center and Anchors Away Discount Cruise Travel. Both companies are premier cruise agencies offering a multiple number of cruises and senior discounts.

© SeniorDiscounts

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