Traveling by cruise ship is a popular way to see the world. While the pros and cons of cruising are well known among seasoned travelers, there remain some hidden secrets that cruise lines don't always divulge.
Here are seven things cruise lines won't tell you.
1. Crime — Don’t let your guard down while cruising. Crimes ranging from theft and drug use to sexual assault have been reported on cruise ships and the
ports they visit, The Travel Channel reported. Cruise lines generally keep a tight watch on things, but travelers should remain cautious on and off the ship.
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2. Cabins downsides — Choosing a cabin can be difficult. Those near stairwells, elevators, or major destinations can be noisy, The Travel Channel pointed out. Inside cabins don't offer natural light, single cabins are cramped, and those with balconies can be obstructed by girders and often go unused for those who prefer to be out and about. But finding the right fit isn't easy as some cruise ships offer dozens of different categories of staterooms.
3. Illness — Cruise ships can be a hotbed for infectious diseases, such as
norovirus, The Wall Sreet Journal noted. With thousands of people crammed together in a confined space, cruise ships are similar to schools and hospitals when it comes to spreading disease.
4. Left behind — Unless you've booked a cruise-sponsored excursion, cruise ships won't wait for you if you get delayed on shore. You will have to find your own way to catch up with the ship at the next port, which can be costly and stressful. Also, canceling a cruise is difficult, and most cruise lines won't offer any money back if passengers cancel within two weeks of departure, The Wall Street Journal noted.
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5. Charge for extras — Cruise ships charge extra for everything from alcohol and soft drinks to photographs and
onshore excursions, The Huffington Post noted. It's easy to lose track of spending as everything is automatically charged to a credit card.
6. Wave season — The best deals can be found between January and March, when cruise lines offer deep discounts and perks like free drink packages, The Huffington Post reported. But cruising during the off-season can often save you 20 to 30 percent. Most "shoulder seasons" are in the spring and fall.
7. Secret perks — Many travels go unaware of the services
available to them, Cruise Critic noted. Possibilities for pampering include the ability to order more than one entrée, several desserts, or substitute a couple of appetizers for the main dish in the dining room. Some cruise lines also offer such special accommodations as egg crate mattress toppers and alternative pillow types.
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