Popular Cruise Ship Travel Options

When you consider a cruise ship vacation, many individuals focus their planning solely on their cruise. For many individuals, this can be a costly mistake. While the cruise itself is important, so is how you plan your vacation.

Unfortunately, some people are unaware that they must make travel arrangements to their cruise’s departure location. They realize it, too late for changes.  Don’t be one of those individuals. When booking a cruise, it’s important to keep a cruise ship’s departure location in mind.  Doing so may prevent unnecessary travel expenses.

Selecting a cruise ship, with a close departure location, is advisable.  Unfortunately though, for many this is impossible as a there are limited number of cruise ship departure ports. If you can’t find a cruise ship departure location within a short distance of your home, consider the cost of travel while booking your reservations.

If you must make travel plans to reach your cruise ship departure location, consider all options.  These options may include driving your own vehicle, renting a car, flying, riding the bus, or taking the train.

If you choose to drive, make sure you factor in the cost of fuel, wear and tear on your car, overnight stops as well as food.  Another thing to consider is the cost of parking while you are on your cruise.  Many lots near the cruise lines can cost $10-20/day.  On the other hand, the greatest advantage of if driving is that your travel will be easy. Just hop into your vehicle and hit the road. Also, if you choose to drive to your destination, it’s often much easier.

The other possibility is to rent a vehicle.  Car rentals are a popular way to reach your designation without an excessive amount of planning. Many rental agencies will pick up and deliver their vehicles – so if you rented a car, drove to the cruise line, contacted the rental agency, they can pick up the vehicle from you, and you could save on the cost of parking and have a hassle free mode of transportation.

Flying is a popular travel method; however, again it can be costly.  If you fly, also factor in the cost of airport parking as well as transportation to and from the airport to the cruise line.  If your cruise ship departure port is only a few hours a way, air travel may not be the best option.

Traveling by bus or train to your cruise ship’s departure location is another acceptable travel option.  Although there is a longer time factor involved, they are both inexpensive ways to travel.  Many people can easily afford a bus or a train ticket.  Aside from excessive stops, it is possible that you may not have access to either.  Bus stations and train stations are only available in limited locations.  You may find it difficult or impossible to find a station that offers service to the location of your choice.

Each of the aforementioned travel methods have their advantages and disadvantages.  To find the perfect method of travel to reach your cruise ship’s departure location, weigh the advantages and disadvantages of each.  Once you have decided which method best fits your needs, you can rest assured knowing that you will make it on time for your cruise ship’s departure.