How to get freebies on your next cruise
Everyone likes to get something for nothing. These are a few ways you can score yourself some freebies on your next cruise.
Join the loyalty program
Most cruise lines have a loyalty program that you can join to receive all sorts of privileges – and the more cruises you take the better it gets. There will be a special cocktail party or gathering for members on each cruise with free drinks and snacks. Once you start to cruise regularly, there are all sorts of benefits like cabin upgrades, free internet minutes and priority boarding or spa appointments. It pays to be loyal to the one cruise line as, unlike airline alliances, these points won’t transfer.
Be in it to win it
Whether you’re a font of knowledge for 60s music trivia or a whizz with the bingo cards, there’s a game on the ship for you. Karaoke, sexiest man, best belly flop, scavenger hunts, name that tune, talent quests – the list is almost endless. Ok, the prizes for these games often aren’t much (think pens, mugs and t-shirts) but it’s nice to go home with a free souvenir.
Get with the program
Keep an eye on the daily program for special events where you can nab some freebies. Shopping events or art shows often come with a free glass of champagne and canapés, and you can usually enter free raffles to win a piece of jewellery or a painting. The fitness centre will run free seminars on all aspects of health and wellness, while spas sometimes offer special “ladies parties” where they give out free mini treatments.
Book carefully
Book at the right time and you could score things like a cabin upgrade, free gratuities, onboard spending money and more. You’re most likely to find these specials outside of popular cruise times (like school holidays) but if you’re flexible with your dates then there are bargains to be found. If you book through a specialty cruise travel agents they can also help source some free extras to go with the cruise.
Splash out on a suite
Yes, this will cost more money than a standard stateroom but there are a huge number of complimentary perks that come with it. Butler service, afternoon tea, canapés, fruit baskets, mini bar, laundry and internet access are all included with most suites. Some ships even give suite guests access to exclusive restaurants, lounges or swimming pools that aren’t accessible to the rest of the passengers. Spend a bit more money on the room and reap the benefits.