Airlines collected almost $900 million in baggage fees and $600 million in reservation change fees during the third quarter of 2011, according to a recent Bureau of Transportation report. Excessive charges plus high gas prices and boosting airfare are leading people to seek alternative vacation options this popular travel season. More and more travelers are choosing to cruise instead of fly.
Most Americans live within a six-hour drive of a cruise ship port. And according to a recent social media poll, consumers listed baggage fees and delays as the top reasons they don’t like to fly. So why fly? Why not take a cruise instead?
Airfare is continuously rising, yet cruise fares are constantly dropping — especially if you book late.
“For those of you who are flexible with your travel, it can pay to wait until the last minute,” says Steven Fischer, vice president of cruise development at Travel Holdings, Inc. “That’s when cruise lines need to unload inventory, so stay on top of deals through last minute booking sites like LastMinuteCruises.com and LastMinuteTravel.com. To get a great deal you don’t have to book 6 months in advance.”
The advantages of cruising are many. Foremost, there’s the value for money. All-inclusive meals, transportation, lodging and entertainment often times for less than $50/day per person are one of the major appeals of cruising — especially if you have a big family. A 3-night cruise to the Bahamas from Florida can be found for as low as $219 or 5-nights in the Caribbean for $329.
Sign up for email alerts and follow the bargains posted on LastMinuteCruises.com and LastMinuteTravel.com or you might miss out on a great deal.
“Whether you are traveling with your family, friends or planning a romantic getaway, there is a cruise ship, price point and destination perfect for every traveler,” Fischer says. “Take a much deserved vacation this spring and start it off right with a drink in hand waving bon voyage as you set sail to sea — instead of waiting in the airport bar for your delayed flight that cost you an arm and a leg.”
