Cruise questions (points vs. cash)

[goofy4dvc]

We want to take a 7-day Western Cruise in March or April of 2006. I know that if we use points, we can only book within 11 months. If we book cash, how far in advance can or should we book? Thanks for your help. I have many more questions, but will save them for later and probably on the cruise board.

 

[CarolMN]

Originally posted by goofy4dvc
We want to take a 7-day Western Cruise in March or April of 2006. I know that if we use points, we can only book within 11 months. If we book cash, how far in advance can or should we book? Thanks for your help. I have many more questions, but will save them for later and probably on the cruise board.

I think you should ask this question on the cruise board, too. I'm sure there are more people there than here who can advise you on the best timing for booking with cash.

Best wishes -

 

[Sarangel]

If you're booking with cash, I'd recommend booking as far out as possible. That, of course, depends on DCL having released the dates that you want. I'm not sure when the 2006 dates will be released, but you might be able to find a thread about it on the Cruise board.

The reason for booking far in advance is that DCL increases the prices as the ship fills up, therefore, the fewer people who have booked the lower the price for the same category. If you book while on board, you can get a $200 credit & a 10% discount, and they'll move your dates as often as you want until you get the dates that you want (ie. since the 2006 dates aren't open yet, you could book for late 2005 & move them when the 2006 dates open up).

Good luck & come over to the cruise boards you'll find a bunch of information.

Sarangel

 

[poohnpiglet3]

As a cruise veteran now (ok, only one under my belt)... I have to say that I got a wonderful deal booking even later on - I think I booked Feb. 1st or something for the March 5th sailing of the Wonder. It was wonderful - a well needed vacation, and we ended up getting upgraded for free.

Enjoy your vacation - whether you use points or cash. I really think either is a good way to go - selling your points is a hassle to some people. To others it's very much worth it. Your decision.

Good luck! The cruise board on here is fantastic (just like this one!)

Sherri