The upgrade to a better cabin on a cruise ship is a very rare occasion. Even if you did get one, it is more likely that the upgrade would be to a better cabin, or at a different location, in the same class. Often, the true upgrade to a higher cabin class is a move upwards at a discounted or reduced cost, what is popularly known as an “upsell”. But don’t lose hope; a true upgrade is a possibility. Though you cannot ensure it, you can increase your chances for a cruise cabin upgrade.
Here are 5 ways you can get a cruise ship cabin upgrade.
1. Be the Early Bird
Booking early for a “guarantee” cabin in a particular category well in advance without a specific cabin being assigned puts you in the list of potential upgrades. In case your booked category gets filled up, you have a sporting chance (but no guarantee) to be upgraded to a higher category. It is also possible that a person of higher status or a past-passenger from your category is upgraded while you get his cabin. So do not book a “guarantee” cabin unless you are willing to occupy any cabin in the category.
2. Be a Frequent Cruiser
Your chances of a cabin upgrade are greatly improved if you cruise often by the same line, just like the frequent flyer upgrades in airlines. Loyalty points, however, do not guarantee an automatic upgrade. Don’t be disappointed if you are cruising for the first time; some cruise lines upgrade first timers, too, to ensure their loyalty.
3. Cruise Off-season
You are more likely to get a cabin upgrade during low-demand periods when cabins get un-filled. The off-peak periods are generally just before and after holidays, spring or term breaks, and rough weather season. Winter is off-season for an Alaskan cruise. Sometimes the cruise lines also reduce fares to increase demand, In such cases you may ask the lines or your agents for an upgrade.
4. Book Through a Travel Agent
Your travel agent is the best person to give you a fair chance for an upgrade. Agents often do block bookings of cabins and pass on upgrades. They also know which lines, ships and cruise programs have the best record for an upgrade. Your agent works closely with the cruise lines and gets special discounts and incentives from the cruise lines. Ask your agent for an upgrade or discount. You could be pleasantly surprised.
5. Turn a Disadvantage into an Opportunity
Sometimes problems do occur on board during a cruise which could cause discomfort. Get in touch with the cabin crew and customer service at once if you have a complaint about the cabin. The crew will be more than willing to oblige you with an upgrade, if possible, if the complaint cannot be solved immediately. But please don’t nit-pick or make trivial or frivolous complaints just to try for an upgrade.
A genuine upgrade is a real pleasure indeed. Your cruise turns into a delight with an upgrade in your cabin category. But don’t pull on a long face if you do not get one. You have come to enjoy yourself – cruise away happily!
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