Just picture it. You save up money to take a cruise for that special occasion of yours, maybe a big birthday or other milestone, and you book the cruise... and then you realize that you didn't factor in the price of shore excursions. Cruises aren't just boat rides; you want to do things at the different port cities you disembark at, but those need to be budgeted in too. Quickly these can eat away at your savings. But there are ways to keep down the cost of these shore excursions, so you can enjoy the cruise as best as possible without making your wallet cry.
However, the cost of these shore excursions can be off-putting, particularly for families, as things like ground transport, entrance fees, and meals quickly add up. Luckily, there are a few ways for frugal travelers to save big on shore excursions, so you can keep an eye on your budget without missing out. Here are a few ways to have a great time in every port without breaking the bank.
Book Independently for Major Savings
Most cruise operators will organize shore excursion packages themselves, and while they can be extremely convenient, this convenience usually comes at a premium. If you have the time to get into the weeds and explore the options yourself, you’ll often find that booking the same tours through local operators or independent companies can save you a lot of money.
Do a little advance research before you pack your bags and find trustworthy local tour companies to take you to the best sights. Remember that booking in advance often unlocks special offers, and you’ll be able to customize your tour experience too!
Join a Group Tour to Split Costs
Independent tours are even cheaper if you go with a group, as you can split the costs with other travelers. It is a great way to save money and has the added bonus of the opportunity to meet and socialize with other travelers. There are plenty of forums online that help you connect with other people before the cruise and organize shore excursions together.
Take Advantage of Free or Low-Cost Attractions
Another benefit of doing your research in advance is it means you can discover the free or less expensive attractions in the destinations you will be visiting. Sure, the most famous sites and experiences might come with a significant cost, but there are often plenty of beautiful beaches, amazing historical sites, or exciting towns to discover that are free or have a minimal entry fee. Walking tours are often a great way to discover the best of a port, as they are usually free with only a tip required for your guide. You could also think about renting a bike to explore further afield.
Negotiate with Local Vendors
If you aren’t all that great with planning but you still want to save a bit of cash, negotiating with local vendors when you arrive at port can still save you money. There are always plenty of local tour operators and guides waiting when a cruise ship arrives, and by talking to them and negotiating carefully, you can often find cheaper experiences than the pre-booked cruise-organized tours. Remember to always be firm but polite in negotiation, ask for discounts or promotions, and confirm exactly what is included in the tour before agreeing on a price!
Keep an Eye Out for Last-Minute Deals
While booking in advance is usually a sensible plan for thrifty travelers, waiting until the last minute can sometimes be a great way to save. If you are happy to be a little flexible, cruise lines and tour operators are often happy to charge less on last-minute excursions or tours in order to sell tickets that otherwise wouldn’t sell out.
While shore excursions can be expensive, there are plenty of ways to save to ensure you don’t miss out on the excitement if you are traveling on a budget. With a little advance research and a few careful tips and tricks, you can experience the best of your destinations without going overboard on price!
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