What is a back-to-back cruise?
Back-to-back cruising is a popular travel trend where individuals or families book two or more cruises on the same ship to extend their vacation at sea. Instead of disembarking after the first cruise, they remain on the ship for the next sailing. If booked early enough, staying in the same stateroom for both cruises is possible, saving time and the hassle of repacking and moving to a different stateroom. If you must change staterooms, your stateroom attendant will transfer your luggage to ensure an efficient and hassle-free experience.
How can this benefit your family?
There are many reasons to consider booking two consecutive cruises. Let’s explore how this can benefit you and your family.
One of the key benefits is saving money. Who doesn't want to SAVE money when cruising? You may wonder how you save money when booking not one but two cruises during the same timeframe. By booking consecutive cruises instead of two cruises at different times, you maximize the cost of your airfare and transfers to your destination. Your family can use the money saved towards purchasing the second cruise. The savings can be substantial!
Another benefit is your family can design itineraries that meet their destination needs by allowing more control over the length of your cruise and exploring multiple destinations. For example, you may want to sail on the Disney Wish, which only offers 3-day and 4-day cruises, but you prefer a 7-day cruise. By booking two consecutive cruises, you will be able to achieve the cruise length that you desire. Another example is if you want to experience an Eastern and Western Caribbean cruise, many cruise lines will alternate these itineraries. Booking a back-to-back cruise would incorporate both itineraries into your vacation.
Let’s REVIEW some IMPORTANT benefits of back-to-back cruising:
-Cost Savings
-Explore Multiple Destinations
-Maximize Your Time
-Flexibility to Design Your Itinerary
-Extend Your Vacation
-Avoid the Hassle of Packing and Unpacking
-Extend Your Time on the Ship
-Have the Ship to Yourself for a Few Hours
-More Time to Rest and Relax
How Easy Is It to Plan A Back-To-Back Cruise?
Very Easy!
There is no specific back-to-back cruise to book. Each cruise gets booked separately. It is best to book early to allow you to book the same stateroom for each cruise. There is no guarantee that you can book the same stateroom, especially as it gets closer to the sailing date.
The best way to book your cruise is to use a travel agent because they will know all the details for logistics, including passport and visa requirements. A travel agent can guide you through the entire planning process, help you find suitable itineraries, and select the best staterooms. They will also be your main point of contact, which is very important to save you time and hassle.
What to Expect When Transitioning Between Two Cruises
Procedures may vary by cruise line, but I will review general information on what to expect.
First, stop by Guest Services at the beginning of your first cruise to confirm you are on their list of consecutive cruisers. You should receive a letter in your stateroom near the end of your first cruise explaining what to do for a smooth transition between the two sailings. Typically, on the transition day, all passengers staying onboard will be directed to meet at a designated location on the ship and be escorted off the ship to clear immigration and will be immediately escorted back on board with expedited check-in.
This benefit will allow returning guests to have the ship to themselves for a few hours before new passengers can board. Limited food and beverage options will be available. This time is an excellent opportunity to use the pool with no crowds. Returning guests can take advantage of extra downtime between cruises to rest and rejuvenate to prepare for the next sailing.
Does back-to-back cruising sound like an exciting adventure you would like to experience? What are you waiting for? To ensure a stress-free planning experience, contact a Me and the Mouse Travel Specialist to help you plan all aspects of your adventure.
