Budgeting Tips for a Cruise to Niue
A small and exclusive destination like Niue has very few ways of getting there: just two flights a week and less than five cruise liners. With that, getting to Niue isn’t cheap but there are certainly ways to make it cheaper. If you want to visit Niue as part of a South Pacific cruise, then this guide will show you how to get a good deal on a cruise to Niue.
Quick Tips to Save Money on a Cruise to Niue
- Get New Zealand Dollars for Niue before your cruise, not on the ship
- Buy souvenirs in Niue, not on the ship, where you’ll get something cheaper and more authentic
- Don’t tip too much onboard, as many cruise ships have gratiuty included in their prices
- Some onboard activities are cheaper on shore days than sea days
For much more tips along with all of the details, see the 10 Ways to Save Money on a Cruise to Niue.
(c) Pxhere.comHow to Save Money on the Cruise Rate
How can you shave the cents of the standard rate of your cruise? Let us share a few ideas with you…
Selecting the Right Time and Place
First, it sometimes pays to be flexible with your cruise dates. Despite cruises being on sale for a whole year before the departure date, some of the best deals can be found in the final weeks leading up to departure. You’ll find some cruise liners drop their prices around the six-weeks mark before the cruise departs. Of course, there are a few disadvantages to this method, including the fact that you might miss your dream sailing if the cruise gets sold out or you might be left with only the least desirable rooms to choose from. Speaking of which…
If you have more of a mantra of being out and about, experiencing more of the ports of call and the public areas of the ship rather than staying in your room, then you will have no problem choosing an interior room. Interior rooms are the cheapest rooms on the ship, which is where you’ll make the biggest saving on your cruise ship rate guaranteed.
The last “place” where you can be saving money on the cruise rate is by choosing the cheapest destination to embark on the ship. For instance, Silversea’s South Pacific Islands Cruise is much cheaper if travelling from Lautoka (Fiji) to Papeete (Tahiti) than the other way round despite it being essentially the same trip but in reverse. Be sure to check all possible routes with your chosen cruise liner for the best deal.
Bargain for a Deal or an Upgrade
It doesn’t hurt to bargain for a better deal or an upgrade, especially if you are booking a cruise through a travel agent. Cruises are travel agent’s most profitable products so they often have a little bit of room to play with upgrades and discounts. Get more tips for negotiating with your travel agent in 10 Things to Ask Your Travel Agent When Booking a Trip to Niue.
(c) niuepocketguide.comHow to Save Money on Cruise Excursions
Paying the cruise rate is just the beginning. There are many other expenses associated with cruise travel including activities both onshore and onboard.
Saving Money on Shore Excursions
Shore excursions are where cruise ships have the biggest markup, where it has been reported that some cruise ships increase activity prices by a whopping 300%. With that in mind, it’s usually much cheaper to book activities independently than through the cruise.
Now, this is the part where we usually recommend you book through Viator or directly through accommodation websites. However, Niue is a bit behind the times with most activity operators only reachable by phone. Some operators you will be able to book tours online include Explore Niue and Niue Orientation Tours. Orientation tours are typically NZ$70, which tends to be much cheaper than what’s available through the cruise.
Free and Cheap Activities in Alofi
Public transport is close to non-existent in Niue, so without a car, you’re options for exploring Niue on-the-cheap is by making the most of the port of call, Alofi. Never fear! Alofi has its own array of free and cheap attractions to explore where no transport is needed.
Free things to do in Alofi include visiting historical sites and whale-watching lookouts, like Tomb Point and Opaahi. Alofi has around six short sea tracks with reef walks, snorkelling spots and stunning coastline. If it’s a Wednesday, check out the Niue Market or the women’s weaving group in Makini Hall, and the list goes on in the 10 Free & Cheap Things to Do in Alofi.
(c) Niue TourismHow to Save Money on Food
While some cruises include meal plans, most have a restaurant or two onboard where you’ll simply pay as you go. Nevertheless, there are always ways to save money on food when on a cruise to Niue.
Look into Food and Beverage Packages
During the booking process of your cruise, you’re likely to find that there are food and beverage packages available. These often act as credit for food and drinks on the ship. Assess your needs first, for instance, are you really going to spend AU$550 on drinks for two people? If you think a food and drinks package is going to save you money, then buy the package on the second, third or fourth night of your cruise. The further through the cruise you go, the more the food and drink packages are discounted.
Eat Onshore
Alofi might only have a small selection of restaurants and cafes, but they are bound to provide something much cheaper than what’s available on board. Take every opportunity to eat onshore during shore days, especially in Niue where we have all of the Top Cheap Eats in Niue listed here. For more restaurant options see The 10 Best Restaurants in Niue.
More About Saving Money on a Cruise to Niue
