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Beware of cruise line add-ons
Saturday, 14 Sep, 2009
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People looking for cheap cruises in the credit crunch are being urged to study the small print to avoid costly add-ons.
The warning comes in the 25th anniversary Berlitz Complete Guide to Cruising and Cruise Ships being published this month.
The 2010 edition of the ‘bible’ of cruising says: “As cruise lines have taken their cue from outfits like Ryanair, which charge supplements for almost everything, the range of add-ons in cruising can take the glow of an apparent give-away price.
“A highly discounted fare may apply only to certain dates and itineraries, while passengers’ preferred cabin grades and location may not be available or they may be limited to first seating at dinner.”
However, the book describes the value of a cruise holiday as never being better due to the economic downturn forcing companies to offer more incentive such as onboard credit, cabin upgrades and other perks in order to “keep afloat”.
The guide, which reviews 271 cruise ships, highlights industry trends such as more multi-generational cruising on board large, resort-style ships, an increase in single parents taking cruises, more child-free ships, more themed dining venues, more healthy eating and spa menus, increased active shore excursions, demand for both longer and shorter ‘get-away’ cruises and more large ships charging for ‘extras’.
The book lists the 12 ships due to enter service next year, ten in 2011 and six due in 2012.
*The Berlitz Guide will be available from September 28 costing £16.99.
by Phil Davies
Phil Davies
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