Do you book your shore excursion through the cruise line or on your own….

So you have finally decided on that perfect cruise, all booked and paid for. Now, the next thing to do is to research shore excursions! Which I think is the most enjoyable after finding your cruise.

There are so many options for each port of call which can sometimes be a little daunting. The question I hear many times is, “Should I book my excursion through the cruise line or independently?” I really believe this is up to the individual, there are many people that like the security of booking it all through the cruise line and wouldn’t have it any different, but there are more and more people now that are well travelled and believe they can save by booking independently and get exactly what they want.

Points on booking with the cruise line or independently:

• Booking directly with the cruise line is usually more expensive, however you will get peace of mind that the ship will wait for you if you are delayed for any reason. The tour guides will be in touch with the ship so they know your whereabouts.
• The cruise line will also have all the correct insurance cover
• The cruise lines will give you the option to book in advance or onboard the ship. My advice here is that if you see an excursion that is a must for you then definitely pre book so you don’t run the risk of it being sold out before you go. You can wait and book onboard and they will have knowledgeable staff who can give you sound advice on each trip, they will point you in the right direction.
• If you book your shore excursion independently you will certainly save money, the groups will be smaller, you will also find it probably uses the same suppliers as the cruise lines
• I really do think it all depends on the port of call, and whether or not you feel comfortable booking an excursion separate
• If you book an excursion independently then you will need to arrange your own visas (if required), this of course will cost and will take a bit more time. For example if you book an excursion onboard ship for Russia then you will be covered under the ships visa, but if you book your excursion separately then you will need to arrange your own visa or else you will not be able to leave the ship.

Of course as your cruise specialist I can also suggest excursions, give you advice and point you in the right direction.

We have teamed up with a company called Viatour, where they specialise in shore excursions. Their promise is that they have the lowest prices – guaranteed, No fee – can cancel up to 7 days before, No fee – to change your dates, Hand-picked tours and experiences, Unbiased reviews and ratings, Customer care 24/7