Cruise passengers urged to read small print to avoid extra costs

There's never been a better time to take a cruise holiday, according to a new guide out this month, but holidaymakers are being warned to study the booking small print to avoid paying for costly add-ons.

For example, cruise companies and travel agencies often sell cruise insurance at inflated premiums.

The new Berlitz Complete Guide to Cruising and Cruise Ships warns potential cruise customers that other supplements are also being loaded on to the basic price.

It says: As cruise lines have taken their cue from outfits like Ryanair which charge supplements for almost everything the range of add-ons in cruising can take the glow of an apparent give-away price.

""A highly discounted fare may apply only to certain dates and itineraries, while passengers' preferred cabin grades and location may not be available or they may be limited to first seating at dinner.""

Passengers must read the small print before they book, says the guide and they should take out any extras they don't want to pay for. They can save money by booking cruise insurance through a third party, rather than pay the higher premiums charged by travel companies.

Customers can compare cruise insurance premiums online, where prices are often much lower than on the high street.

The guide referred to in the travel industry as the 'cruise bible' does admit, however, that cruising has never been better value because the recession has forced cruise lines to offer incentives such as cabin upgrades and cash-back to spend onboard.

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