Too People Who Want To Save Money For A Cruise - But Can't Get Started

So many families and individuals are crying out to recharge their batteries by going on vacation; however, many just don't have the finances to pay for this. If they go on vacation, it will often be a visit to a nearby campground or amusement park or they just go nowhere at all. Vacations like this often take place because individuals impose limits on themselves.

If you have been dreaming about taking an extravagant vacation, like a cruise, it is best not to limit yourself. With the correct mind set, just about anything can be achieved even with a tight budget.

Is your family wanting to go on a cruise ship vacation? You are not going as you feel you just can never afford to. If you feel this way you are urged not to assume it can't be affordable. Thinking this way could prevent you from enjoying the vacation that you want and rightly deserve. To turn a dream into reality and go on a cruise ship vacation with your family, all you will need to do is a little bit of budgeting.

For most individuals, developing a family budget is a small sacrifice, but for others it may be more difficult to achieve. The more money you need to save for a cruise, the harder it may be to save. The number one step in saving money for your cruise ship getaway is to determine where all of your money is
going. This can easily be accomplished by documenting your spending patterns. Everything from the mortgage payment or rent, house insurance, car loan even that magazine you
purchased should be recorded.

After keeping track of your spending habits for a week or a month, you will have to look at your findings. Many individuals are surprised to learn how much money they are wasting on unnecessary purchases. These purchases often include, but are not limited to single serve beverages, cigarettes, magazines, alcohol, and out-of-home dining. To save money for your cruise ship vacation, you will need to cut all of your unnecessary purchases.

Cutting back on unnecessary purchases may sound a simple task, however the truth of the matter is that it often does not work out that way. There are some people who cannot go without their cigarettes or a morning cup or two of coffee. If you are not able to curb your spending habits, you are strongly advised to change them as much as you can. For example, instead of buying a cup of coffee in the morning, you can make your own at home or try tea that you make at the office. Additional lifestyle changes could be made to prevent your habits from diminishing your cruise ship vacation fund.

While saving money for your adventure cruise vacation, you need to ensure that you actually put aside the money. Quite often, many individuals take the money they saved by creating a monthly budget and spend it on something other than what they originally planned. If you find it difficult to not
spend your savings, you may wish to open a savings account at your local bank branch. In addition to earning interest, you are less likely to spend the money because it is safely tucked away.

Cutting back your spending habits is one of the best ways to save the funds to take your dream vacation aboard a cruise ship. While saving money is very important, it is not the only way that you can plan a cruise ship vacation on a budget. There are a large number of online travel websites. These websites may offer you significant deals and savings. Other cruise discounts can be obtained through membership clubs or your local travel agent.

Coming up with the financing required for a cruise ship getaway may seem like a difficult task, but after time it may become a part of your daily routine. Saving money and finding cruise ship discounts are both fantastic ways to obtain the needed financing, but together they can save you even more
money than you ever dreamed possible.

Boat Parts Wish List

Whether your boat is old or new, it's always fun to make improvements, and the possibilities are endless when it comes to boat parts. Boat parts and accessories can range from a new propeller to a spiffy boat cover and everything in between.

Boat parts can be broken down into categories so that wish list will be easier to create. Many boat owners start from the bottom of their boat and work their way up. For example, many start with anchor and docking needs. Is your anchor big enough, or too big? Do you have adequate rope for your docking needs? Moving right along, the cabin is usually the next part of the boat to be addressed. What kind of condition is it in?

Do you need a new coat of paint or varnish? Perhaps new seats, bunks or carpeting are in order, or perhaps a window treatment or two. Pillows, bedding and curtains add a splash of color to cabin interiors, as do carpeting or hardwood floors. The bathroom in the cabin is also a necessary item, but functional can also be attractive, to those with an eye to color and design.

Many boat owners don't like to leave their boat uncovered for long periods of time, as sunshine and harsher weather can cause damage to your boat upholstery. One of the most popular items on any boat parts wish list is a boat cover that will protect boat finishes and wood against inclement weather while dry-docked or floating in a marine slip.

Boat parts wish lists almost always contain engine parts or electronics. How about that new navigating system that's just become the hottest gadget on the market, or that GPS system that you've been eyeballing for so long? Seats, cushions, even a new steering wheel are boat parts that are always available in local boating parts supply stores. So is safety equipment, an absolute must on any boat, whether it's an aluminum dingy or a sixty-foot yacht.

Life vests, flotation devices and ropes should always be on board when you set out, and within visible and handy reach. Flares are also on the list of necessary boat parts that most captain's have handy, as well as spare engine parts like spark plugs, filters, gaskets, water pumps, alternators and screens. Boat parts can be anything from the starter to the trim and tilt system, and it's the boat owner's responsibility to make sure that all boat parts are maintained in good working order.

Depending on where you take your boat and whether or not it's used for fresh water or sea water recreation or sports, make sure that you have other necessary items that many people wouldn't consider a boat part on board. These items consist of extra clothing, rain gear and foul weather gear, in addition to a good supply of water when away from land more than a few hours. Boat parts such as navigation devices and electronics can make boating trips safer, and always, but always, let someone know where you're going and when you plan to be back.

Where To Find Cheap Cruise Deals

Cheap cruise deals can often be a misleading term for first time cruise enthusiasts. People may be able to cruise cheap but they certainly won't vacation cheaply.

Cheap cruise deals simply means getting a bargain-based price when deals are being offered and being in the right place at the right time to snap one up. There are any number of reasons why prices may be offered at a low price.

- It could be off-season and companies are having more difficulty filling their staterooms.

- It's getting close to departure date and there are staterooms still available.

- Promotional offers being offered at any given time.

What Are The Reasons To Cruise?

The most important aspect of choosing a cruise is getting the best value for your money. Once the deal is booked you should have explored every angle possible to get the best deal. Quite often, people are amazed at exactly what they are getting for their dollar including entertainment, dining and accomodation. This is quite often what the term cheap cruise deal refers to.

Cruising is the best value for money holiday experience on the planet. Better still, ships today are getting bigger and bigger and the amenities are such that there's no need to leave the ship!

Finding Cheap Cruise Deals

Travel consultants should be your first port of call. They are privvy to deals and information which the general public don't have access to. When booking, always explain your circumstances and the criteria you're after. Resist the temptation to be persuaded to switch to something just because it's going at a cheap rate at that time. Remember, you'll be on a ship and probably in a different country so the initial consultation is vital.

If flexibility is a problem then book early. Quite often, discounts are available for early birds however, if you are flexible, then cheap cruise deals are excellent value at the last minute. This is usually about a month before the ship is due to depart. A good way to stay in touch with these late deals is to sign up for travel agency newsletters or alerts.

There is some conjecture whether it's feasible to check with the cruise lines themselves. There is a consensus it's more expensive than booking through a cruise discounter. Maybe so however, staying in touch with cruise lines can be beneficial. They provide excellent information and getting on their mailing lists can only keep you up to date with the latest offerings in the cruise world.

So in a nutshell, finding cheap cruise deals seems to hinge on booking early or having the flexibility to book late.

Tips On - Going on a Gamefishing Charter Boat

Know Before You Go

First, do your research. What you want to catch dictates were you want to go and fish. Once you decide where you want to go, find out what charter boats are in the area. Read magazines, get on line and put some time in to find out all you can about your options. When you have a couple of possibilities, call them up, drop them an email, ask them questions, not just "how much is it?" but "what is the best time to come? What fish are in season? What type of tackle do you have on board and in what classes? Can the weather stop you going out? Do you fish under IGFA Rules? Is the skipper an IGFA Certified Captain? What about beginners? Can you put me in touch with a couple of previous clients? What types of fishing can you offer?

Try to find out if they are a serious charter boat with good equipment, a good crew and they know what they are doing!

If you can, talk to the skipper before you go out. Tell him/her what you would like to catch, your level of experience and if you would prefer calmer waters or are happy to corkscrew all day if the fish are there.

You are out there to have fun, not sit in a corner looking green and feeling miserable. If you start to feel unwell, tell the crew ! Here in Kadavu, we can always move to calmer waters.

A good charter boat will take your wishes into consideration when deciding how and where to fish.

When You Step Aboard

Listen to the safety briefing. It's not just done to fulfil Maritime Safety regulations, it will also give you information about that particular boat, where emergency items are stored, where you can sit and where you should not go or sit during cruising for safety reasons.

Be prepared. Talk to the skipper or deckie. Ask questions like "what do I do when a rod goes off? And how do I do it?" We always establish the experience of our guests and we tell you what to do and show you how to do it. The last thing the deckie or the skipper wants is to lose a fish because of simple confusion on the deck.

I once watched 3 anglers begin, and continue with, a lengthy discussion on who should pick up a screaming rod whilst a nice sailfish of about 100lbs tail walked away from the boat. Despite us backing down, the sail took over 700 yards of 30lb mono and spooled the angler just as he finally reached for the rod.

Don't fiddle with the equipment, even if you are experienced and understand its operation. Lever Drag Gamefishing reels have their drag settings carefully tested and set to a drag setting appropriate to the type of fishing you are doing and the fish you expect to catch. If you accidentally bump a reel setting – tell the crew.

The crew should be more than happy to explain the use of any piece of equipment and why it is set as it is.

On a Game boat, everything has a place. The crew may need to get something quickly so be careful not to move things around. Don't rummage through tackle drawers or pull out equipment and toss it back in a mess. At best, you will annoy the crew (who will have to sort it all out again and at worst, you may get a hook through your hand.

When the deckie takes a leader or gaff in hand, stay well back. Only the angler and the deckie should be at the back of the boat. It you are there too, you are in the way. If you are marlin fishing, this is positively dangerous. Crowding the deckie not only blocks the skipper's view, it endangers the life of both you and the deckie. You and he could be pulled overboard if a hand or foot gets tangled in the leader. If the deckie is tracing a big marlin and you get in the way – it's a tense and potentially dangerous moment. Don't be offended by the stream of loud four letter words directing you to move back.

You will get your chance to take close up pictures when the fish is tagged and under control.

When a fish comes aboard, stand well back and listen to the deckie's instructions. They are for his safety as well as yours. Most lures used have 2 or more hooks. One may be in the fish's mouth, the other may be swinging free – just waiting to catch you.

A colleague of mine got a 10/0 Stainless Steel hook embedded in his calf when a mahi mahi got loose on the deck. Very painful and that was the end of the days fishing.

A good charter boat will do everything it can to ensure you have an action packed, fun filled day of fishing. It is, after all, in their best interests that you go home and tell all your friends how good the fishing was and what fun you had. If you are out there flogging a dead horse (its rare but it does happen)….don't blame the crew….they will be even more frustrated than you are!

Some Do's and Don'ts

Do:

• Take a hat, sunscreen and sunglasses. You will get a lot of glare reflected off the sea, even on cloudy days.
• Take a camera.
• Wear non marking soft soled shoes.
• Ask if you are fishing under IGFA Rules – You just might catch a World Record!
• Ask, if you want to come up and see the bridge.
• Eat your catch – you won't ever eat a fresher tastier fish than one that you just landed.
• Respect the boat. Don't trash it. Rubbish makes its way to the bilge and can block bilge pumps.
• Enjoy the whole day's experience, not just the fishing!

Don't:

• Brag before you go about how many fish you are going to catch. It's bound to blank your day.
• Step on board wearing high heels or shoes that may damage or mark the deck.
• Play with fishing equipment settings. (Even if you do know what you are doing)
• Put a rod butt down on a teak deck – It will damage the teak. All rods go in rod holders.
• Crowd round the deckie with a camera when he is tracing or gaffing a fish. STAY WELL BACK.
• Bring a hand held GPS. If the skipper sees it, you won't be going to any of his secret hot spots.
• Access the foredeck or engine room. They are out of bounds unless the skipper specifically tells you otherwise.
• Litter. Never throw any type of rubbish (including cigarette butts) overboard. Turtles eat butts and die.
• March up to the bridge, plonk yourself down in the deckie's seat and put your feet up on the console. Unless you want a swim.

Crew Talk Jargon Explained:

"Fiddler & Tweaker": Somebody who can't resist playing with reel drag settings or ratchets.

"Nibbler": Somebody who stares at the outrigger tip when you are trolling 16" marlin lures on bent butt 80s and shouts "I think we just got a nibble!"

"Plonker": Somebody who asks if they can bottom fish when you are 7 miles out on the Kadavu Trench in 1,000 fathoms of water. (6,000ft)

(I once had a guy stand up on the transom with the boat cruising at 22kts, wave at one of our resort dive boats following in our wake and decide to dive in. (My deckie Joe managed to grab him before he killed himself) Game boats and large quantities of beer do not mix. If you get drunk aboard one of my vessels, I will consider you a danger to the crew who will have to rescue you when you fall overboard. I will tie you to the game chair and drive home. Just so you know.)

Inflatable Boats Are The Best To Fish A River

If you fish rivers as I do, aren't you always interested in the most efficient way to do it? I am, and have recently found the most efficient way that I've ever found. My favorite river is in the wilderness and walking along it can be just like walking through the woods. That's probably because that's exactly what is happening. I'm walking through the woods to get to the next good stretch of river. Then I stumbled on the most efficient way that I've ever seen to fish wilderness rivers such as the one I like.

It called an inflatable boat. But not the kind of inflatable boat that you may be thinking of. The kinds I like are basically personal pontoon boats. There are different companies that make them, but personal pontoon boats are basically a seat mounted on top of a couple of inflatable pontoons. They are literally a personal boat! And on rivers that are difficult to walk along because of overgrown brush, these "personal boats" are the way to go.

In the past you may have only been able to cover 2-3 miles of river in a trip, with the aid of an inflatable pontoon boat, you can fish three times that amount of water. You'll be able to access areas of the river that you never thought possible. And you'll be able to fish these areas in a way you never thought possible. On the river I prefer to fish, there are a ton of fallen trees that can block an angler's path, especially in the spring. In a boat such as a canoe, traversing fallen tree's is a major pain in the butt. But with my personal pontoon, I simply carry it over any fallen trees. It can easily be picked up with two hands.

The fact that this boat is inflatable is amazingly convenient as well. It can be pulled out of my vehicle and inflated in a matter of minutes! It enables me to spend much more time actually fishing, whereas I used to spend half of my time walking to my fishing area's, rather fishing. Now I spend that time fishing, the way God intended.

It's also quite relaxing to float down your favorite river without a care in the world. And if you feel like stopping to fish an area, you simply stop, pull the boat onto the bank,. And fish the area. I wear my waders the entire time, just as I would if I were walking along the bank. It's a beautiful thing and not only a great and efficient way to fish a river, an inflatable pontoon boat is a wonderful way to enjoy nature as well. You'll be amazed at the amount of water that can be covered in a single fishing trip, and you'll agree that this is the most efficient way to fish a river. Give it a shot and see if you don't agree.

Packing For A Cruise

So you are planning a cruise and if you are like most people you start your packing a month in advance. The big day arrives and you find that you need to rent a U-Haul to get all of your stuff aboard the ship! Too often, first-time cruise goers tend to overpack and spend their entire vacation dealing with luggage stacked around in their cabin. Remember, everything you bring on board has to go somewhere -- and cabins on cruise ships are not exactly the largest spaces known to man.

Just like traveling on a plane, you should realize that your luggage is going to be thrown around, x-rayed and possibly searched. You should never lock your luggage as chances are the lock will be cut off during the inspection process. Also like the airlines, you should pack valuables, jewelry and cash in your carry on. You will not be allowed to take your luggage on board the ship - just a carry on. Your luggage will arrive in your room before sail-away, which might be a few hours after you set foot on the ship. So be prepared to get by for those first few hours.

Remember, you are on a cruise to have fun. The advice given to many is to pack casually, but bring along one piece of formal attire just in case. This doesn't have to be a suit or evening dress, but can be what you might typically wear to work if you work in an office. Speaking for myself, I know I don't want to have to go on a vacation to get dressed up!

On board the ship there will be laundry facilities available, so you should plan on packing light and not bringing a different outfit for each day. Instead, bring clothes that can be mixed and matches to create different outfits. If you feel the need to bring several changes of clothes remember that closet space will be limited. If you are traveling with your family it could be difficult to get large amounts of clothes into the closet on the ship. Plus chances are you are flying to your port of departure and the airlines have strict baggage and weight limits for your luggage. So save yourself the hassle and headache and pack for a good time, not for a 3-year voyage!

Shampoo, toiletries and other items are available on the ship in most cabins at no charge, or can be purchased in on-board convenience stores at reasonable prices. A lesson I learned years ago is it is better to pay a slightly higher price for shampoo and such in the on-board store than to weigh my suitcases down with bottles that will probably spill and get all over everything during the trip to the ship.

If you are in doubt about what to pack, turn to the experts -- your fellow travelers! There are numerous forums and discussion groups online for cruise travelers, many of which offer advice and tips for what to bring depending on the cruise line, the time of year and the paraticular destination.

For a cruise liner full of free tips, resources and valuable information about all types of cruising, check in at http://www.CruiseFolks.com

Cruising Is Popular Honeymoon Choice

Cruises are currently very popular way to go to honeymoon. Not so long ago only handful of couples decided to spend honeymoon on a floating hotel. But lately even though last minute flights to exotic places are cheaper then ever many freshly married couples are choosing to cruise. Because cruise is something about the romance and the luxury of the experience. For most cruisers today, the cruise is no longer about a way to travel in style from one place to another instead, it's all about enjoying your time on the boat itself, living the sea life and relaxing on the ocean waves.

The nice thing about honeymoon cruises is that your holiday starts as soon as you get on the ship: there is no sitting around in departure lounges and on planes. So what can you do once you are on a cruise ship? Modern cruise ships are basically like big, luxurious floating hotels, and are often truly huge, big enough to include a whole town's worth of facilities. You can take a swim, shop and go freshen yourself in the morning after the exhausting night you had with your beloved. Some ships even have ice rink! You can invite your partner to a dinner, first class restaurants also on the ship. The best thing to do, though, is just sit back and relax and enjoy company of your partner. Cruise ships are open at the top so you can enjoy sun whole day. In the evening you have bands playing and a dance floor to move your feet a bit. At this point people are just starting to realize the beauty of honeymoon cruises.

Hawaiian Island Cruise Vacations - Islands in the Sun

Let the lure of lush tropical volcanic islands call you. Imagine your footprints in sand that varies from black to green to golden yellow. Breathe in the salt air as you sit on your own private balcony as the ship slides past the islands at sunset. If your thoughts are starting to drift away, a Hawaiian cruise vacation may be the thing for you.

The Hawaiian Islands consist of eight islands, Hawaii, Maui, Lanai, Molokai, Oahu, Kauai, Nihau and the uninhabited Kahoolawe. There are several uninhabited islands in a smaller chain.

On your Hawaiian cruise you can take in and enjoy all the onboard activities and dine in the wonderful restaurants found on the cruise ship, and then explore and enjoy the wonders of the Hawaiian islands and the Polynesian atmosphere. Water activities such as deep sea fishing, snorkeling, and helicopter tours around the volcanoes are some of the on-shore activities you can enjoy.

The island of Maui is 727 square miles of tropical forests, volcanic mountains, and wonderful beaches. Waterfall abound. Visit Haleakala National Park home to the world's largest dormant volcano. The sand around this island is soft and yellow. From December to May the humpback whales migrate past. Golfing, biking, and helicopter tours are very popular. Swimming with dolphins and snorkeling are also fun.

Kauai is known as the "Garden Isle". Abundant rainfall nourishes rain forest and green valleys. The island is actually a volcano that extends three miles about the ocean floor. This island is laid-back; there are small villages and great restaurants. You have seen the terrain of this island if you watched Jurassic Park.

The island of Hawaii has two great areas: the city of Hilo and the Kona Coast. In Hilo the sand turns form green to black to yellow. Hilo is the wettest city in America with ten feet of rain annually, yet maintains an average 70 degrees all year round. There are waterfalls, and an active volcano to see. Surfing is a main attraction.

The Kona Coast has lava rock to white sand beaches. This less touristy area features top-notch dining venues. Stop and get some great coffee. Water sports are popular here on the leeward side of the island. You may want to take a tour of the coffee and chocolate factories, visit botanical gardens or go fishing.

Oahu has the best weather of all the islands. In Honolulu visiting Pearl Harbor and the USS Arizona memorial is a must. Stop by the Polynesian Cultural Center. Surfing is again a popular attraction, along with hiking and shopping.

It is easy to see why the Hawaiian Islands are so popular. They capture what is the best of tropical scenery, they have great activities and excursions you can take part in, and a cruise is a great way to see them all. Just think, you only have to unpack once!

A Fabulous Cruise Deal? How To Find One!

For some people, a cruise is a once-in-a-lifetime vacation. For others, it's an annual event. But whether you're a frequent sailor or a first timer, a cruise deal is a must for those of us on a vacation budget. Avoid going in blindly and picking up any and all cruise brochures from a travel agent and then picking the first itinerary that appeals to you. In your breathless excitement to start packing, you might miss some big savings. No one pays full price if they can help it and everyone looks to score better value for their money. If you were buying a new car, wouldn't you do all you could to negotiate for lower prices and better perks? Of course, and it's the same with a cruise deal.

1. Be a smart shopper.


As with anything, it's buyer beware. Shop around and know what you're getting for your money. You could consult with a travel agent to find a great cruise deal. Or, you could be your own travel agent. Some online companies will have secured a collection of staterooms at a group discount and then can pass along the savings to you. Travel agents can usually add bonuses like free upgrades, free travel insurance, shipboard credits or coupons for on board discounts.

2. Compare, compare, compare.


Allow yourself enough time to analyze the kind of cruise deal that different companies offer in terms of perks and base pricing. Some websites provide a handy price comparison tool that enables you to put various offers side by side and see which represents the best value for you.

3. Take advantage of industry competition.


There are many cruise lines around and each has several ships. With so much business to offer, your vacation dollar is valuable to all of them. Be an opportunist. Put up your hand and say: "I want to buy a cruise" and let them all vie for your attention. Try one of the websites where you can list your requirements. These are then passed on to competing cruise line companies. It's the same as those websites that look for the best price on electrical goods and new or used cars. The result will be a cruise deal that's best for you, based on your criteria.

4. Consider a one-way cruise.


A fabulous cruise deal can be found if you can take advantage of a one-way sailing. When a cruise company dispatches a vessel to a new destination (ending a season or beginning a new one), it's called a "repositioning" sailing. They are often longer than usual; feature fewer ports of call and more days at sea, so a different kind of passenger takes these trips. As such, the rates per day are often cheaper than those of normal sailings.

5. Don't cruise alone.


If you travel alone, the cost of cruising skyrockets. To have a cabin all to yourself, you will be required to pay in the vicinity of one and a half times the regular single fare. So why not take along a companion? And if you bring along nine of your closest friends, you're likely to score group rates on your cruise deal, with a satisfying discount.

You work hard all year to save up for your vacation. Do a little homework and it will pay off. Plus, you'll enjoy your trip so much more if it doesn't put you into debt!