Even though taking a cruise is a relatively inexpensive way to travel, there are certain things that one can do to save even more money while cruising.
One way that I save whenever I cruise is to not buy the excursions with the cruise line.
They tend to be much more expensive than purchasing them once you arrive.
For example, you may sign up for parasailing and it may cost you $80 an hour when you sign up with the cruise line.
When you are already there and walk to the parasailing place they may be much more apt to negotiate a price with you.
That is true for tours of the islands etc.
While on a recent Bahamas cruise Norwegian Cruise line wanted $45 for a tour of Nassau.
We were able to get a tour by the locals for just $20 and it was the same exact tour.
Again, the local people are much more apt to negotiate with you once you are there in front of them with cash in hand.
Some ways to save onboard are to drink only the free soft drinks that they offer which is normally, water, tea and juices.
If you're a big soda drinker than you can purchase a soda card and that will give you unlimited soda for one price.
If you like to drink alcohol then look for lounges that are running a daily special.
I saved $5 per drink this way while on a cruise by checking out different lounges and trying their drink of the day.
If you have a certain amount of money to spend on your trip don't go over that amount.
For example, if you're on a 4 day cruise and have $200 to spend, budget $50 a day.
Don't spend $150 in one day and then not have anything for other days of your trip.
By sticking to your budget you not only save money but you may actually come home with more money then you thought.
These tips have helped me to save money while cruising and I hope that they help you too!