Cutting Corners: Leave Port Without A Light Wallet

More Americans are setting sail to vacation destinations than ever before.

“We love it; I got hooked the first time,” Cato Larsem told CBS4 Your Money Reporter Gwen Belton.

Larsem said he took his first cruise a year ago and he can’t get enough. Tuesday, he and his friend Siri did some last minute shopping in downtown Miami before they head out on a five day cruise; Larsem said he booked the trip for $600, not including airfare. Coming from Norway, that’s still a great deal.

About 34 million passengers take cruise vacations annually, spending around $64 billion. This year, it’s all about dollars and cents for cruise lovers in these tough times. Some cruise lines are offering trips starting a low as $500 for a seven day trip.

“I really do think it’s a direct result of the economy right now. But more ships are coming out each year and it’s more a demand and supply and cruises have become more affordable,” explained Miami travel expert Lucy Cerullo.

Cerullo and her business partner Karen Segalla at Total Travel Marine have been in business for twenty years, booking flight for marine staff and cruises for passengers. In all their years in business, they say they’ve never seen prices like this.

“An all inclusive vacation that the entire family can enjoy; you can bring your kid, there are activities for the kids,” she said.

There are more options for cruisers then ever before: more destinations, anywhere in the world you want to go, and a larger variety of activities on and off ship.

To find those deals, check the internet, check with and travel agent or you can go directly to the cruise ships websites.

Cato Larsem said the money he saved on the cruise, allows him to do some extra shopping.

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