If you aren't too picky about where you go, take advantage of cruise lines' last-minute bargains to fill empty berths. Some cruise lines include shore excursions in the overall fare, especially for trips with an educational or adventurous theme. Others charge for escorted tours at ports of call. Cruise lines have gotten more creative with these excursions with soft-adventure day trips to cultural forays. These often include lectures, themed events, special shore excursions.
Cruise lines post special offers and last-minute discounts on their Web sites.
This is a great way to shop around, compare itineraries, check out ships, cuisine, activities and other amenities. Sure, you can find bargain fares on the Web, but a travel agent may do even better. Some ships dazzle passengers with luxurious surroundings and attentive service. Itineraries cruise the waters of the Mediterranean, South America, Amazon River, the Caribbean, New England, Africa and India. Silversea also has special golf and culinary trips, as well as the National Geographic series of adventures.