Is $500 too much for a 5 day cruise?

Question

I have the option of paying $500 (without the airfare) for a 5 day carnival cruise to the Caribbean in October. I'm going by myself and will have a room all to myself. I know that airfare will probably cost around $300 for me to get to Miami. Is all this money worth it for me to go down to the Caribbean on a cruise or should I find a cheaper way to get down there and have fun?

Answer 1

There may be cheaper ways but, looks reasonable????

Answer 2

$100/day for a private room with all meals and snacks included sounds like a good deal.  I have never heard of anyone going on a cruise and then saying that they didn't like it.

Answer 3

That's pretty good, if that is the total price [with "single supplement"].  If that's the "per person" price, then you'd be paying almost twice that.  

Mass-market cruises will usually run around $100/person/day.  October is usually a less-expensive month to cruise, as kids are back in school and it's hurricane season, so I would think you might be able to find a lower per-person price.

A cruise is a great value and usually compares favorably to an all-inclusive land-based vacation, except the AI's usually include cheap liquor; drinks, including soda, are never free on the mainstream cruises.  So you should compare the cruise costs [include cost of excursions, drinks, tips of $10/person/day, spa treatments, casino, premium restaurants, bingo, etc] with what you would pay for a comparable [good quality] AI in a package deal.

A cruise gives you a chance to see different islands, but only for a short time.  It's very relaxing, because you unpack once, you can eat practically 24/7 if you want, many activities are included, etc.

Answer 4

i dont think $500 is too much for 5 nights, but i would suggest not taking Carnival (it is not very good compared to the other cruise lines). try royal caribbean- go to cococay in teh bahamas. it is their private island and it is amazing

Answer 5

If you can find a cheaper way, it means more money to use while you are in the Caribbean.

But I must point out, that they are providing you a place to stay and plenty to do while you are on the ship.  And normally a hotel would cost anywhere between $60 (real worthless room) and $200 a night for a great room.

You should be getting a great room and plenty to do on a boat for half the price you would normally get a great hotel room for, and with much less to do unless you pay for that also.

Its a great deal.  But if you can find a cheaper way, then you can do more in the Caribbean because you saved money on the trip there.  Its up to you, but its definitely a good deal.  Its just whether the Caribbean is a better deal or not.

Answer 6

I would say that is a fair price...because when you cruise alone you are charged almost double...the prices are based on double occupancy...what line are you cruising on?  I've been on quite a few cruises, mostly carnival...let me know if you have any other questions...

As for the airfare...I would say that is a fair price as well...due to the gas prices!!  Where are you flying out of?  We are going on a cruise in February 2009 and out flights from Detroit to Jacksonville, Fl are $430!!  It's our wedding cruise...so we had no choice but o buy the flights!!

Answer 7

No, $500 is a good deal.  As for a flight, try this site so you can compare all the flight deals to Miami.  iBtraveling.com  I usually find a good deal there.  

Carnival might have a good flight for you IF you book through them, then they'll make sure they track your flight to make sure you get on board if the plane is late.

If you want to save some money, bring your own snorkel equipment.  Well..you just gotta go snorkeling in the Caribbean.  It's the best.

After you book your cruise, get the lowest cabin with a window...and then two weeks before you set sail, call Carnival and ask for a free upgrade.  They'll move you up a few decks, not that it matters too much, but see what you can get.

Most importantly, have fun!  You'll love Carnival!  They do provide the most fun!