Going on a cruise in Feb 2011?

[izmeeh]

I've been wanting to go a cruise for a while now, but the prices are too high on days that I'm off. From what I've read, the rule of thumb for a good deal on a cruise is anything less than $50/night/person. I know that vary from ship to ship, but oh well.

 

On expedia and various other websites, I found a Carnival Paradise for $214 ($54/night). This cruise is cheaper on other days but this is the best price for the days I can get off (2/21/11-2/25/11).

 

These are the price for inside cabins:

Interior Upper/Lower

Location:

Deck 7 , Deck 6 , Deck 4

 

$214

 

Interior

Location:

Deck 4

 

$224

 

 

 

 

Interior

Location:

Deck 5 , Deck 4

 

$239

 

Interior

Location:

Deck 6 , Deck 5

 

$244

 

Interior

Location:

Deck 7 , Deck 6

 

$254

 

Porthole

Location:

Deck 7 , Deck 6 , Deck 5 , Deck 4

 

$224

 

These are the prices if I book early. $80 on board credit can be had if I opt for the higher prices.

 

Day 1 Long Beach, California

 

 

-

5:30 PM

 

 

 

Day 2 Avalon, California

 

 

7:30 AM

4:30 PM

 

 

 

Day 3 Ensenada, Mexico

 

 

9:00 AM

10:00 PM

Shore Excursions

 

 

Day 4 At Sea

 

 

-

-

 

 

 

Day 5 Long Beach, California

 

 

8:00 AM

-

 

 

 

What do you think? Should I wait for a last minute deal or should I book this cruise? If this is not a good cruise, please let me know as I don't want my first cruise to be a disappointment. Thank you!

[paul929207]

You may find the prices highter since you are getting into Spring Break time. If you have a narrow window, I would go ahead and book.

[TicTac#2]

Welcome to Cruise Critic, and good job on your first post. Sounds like you are doing your homework on finding a cruise for your time frame and budget.

For inside staterooms the deck may not make much difference, but the location on that deck may come into play. I would look for a location near

midships (can make for a smoother ride). If the higher prices that give you

$80.00 ship credit cost less than $80.00 that is a no brainer, as shore stuff drinks,and tips will be more than that amount. When pricing online, go to the very end to make sure of the bottom line price, which will should include port tax and other fees. Whatever your decision, I hope you enjoy your cruise.