Just over three years ago, my daughters and I joined my mother and grandmother on an 8-night Mexican Riviera cruise. This one in particular, departed from Los Angeles, with stops in the ports of Cabo San Lucas, Puerto Vallarta, and Mazatlan, before returning a week later.
The trip was through Carnival Cruise Lines, which is not only family-friendly, but nicknamed The Fun Ships. We certainly could see why!
Since that first cruise, my daughters now 10 & 7, are eagerly awaiting their 8th cruise this October (if we can wait that long). All of them have been loyal to Carnival of course. You see, you don’t need to be a millionaire to afford cruising the open seas on one of these massive ships. It’s quite the opposite actually.
Cruising is one of the most affordable ways to vacation, particularly if you live in, or near, one of their many home ports. It is also still one of the safest means of public transportation, despite a handful of incidents reported in the media this past year.
Financially, most cruise lines include lodging, meals, and entertainment. If families were to travel elsewhere and pay for these separately, the cost would nearly be hundreds of dollars more.
Another advantage financially is that by planning your cruise early (either online or through a travel agent), you can make a deposit and spread out payments until the balance is reached in full. Land-based vacations have you practically maxing out your credit card or paying interest on that money long after your suntan has worn off.
Here are some other great things about taking a cruise that you will find both money saving budget friendly! Everything from food to fun are a part of your cruise package!
The options are endless when it comes to meals.
- By booking early, not only can you save on the base fare alone, but you also get to select early, late, or anytime dining. My family enjoys sitting down around 6:00 PM, so we pick the early seating. Those on a different time zone may prefer the latter at 8:00 PM.
- Anytime dining is the more flexible option. I dislike that personally because the social butterfly in me enjoys conversing with other guests who may be seated at our table each night.
- If you don’t choose to partake in the restaurant itself, there’s always the Lido deck full of buffet-style foods. Care to relax inside your cabin? Call and order room service. All of this is included in your cruise rate.
The entertainment on-board is spectacular!
- Hypnotists, comedians, Broadway-style stage shows, piano bars, and game shows are just a few to please nearly everyone. These are often held in the main theater or in a tucked away lounge.
- Some even play out in the sun, by the pool. Soak up the sun and enjoy a show! It’s all part of the excitement on-board a ship.
I can’t conclude this article without mentioning the kids’ club. Mine are at the age where they attend Camp Carnival whenever we cruise. Free babysitting? Try finding that in your land-based travel plans. My kids love playing X-Box, Wii, board games, doing organized events, face painting, sports, and the list goes on and on. I get some “me” time lounging by the pool, working out in the gym, or reading a good book from the library.
If you’ve always thought about cruising, invest some time and research it soon. I know you won’t be disappointed with all there is to do and how truly affordable it can all be.
By Sheila, Free Stuff Finder Contributor
