Your cruise is booked—how exciting! Now let’s make sure your hotel plans are just as smooth. I always recommend arriving at least one day early and even staying a day after your cruise to avoid flight delays or tight connections that can derail your trip. But choosing the wrong hotel can turn that buffer time into a headache. Before you book, here are 8 common mistakes I help my clients avoid when picking pre- or post-cruise hotels.
1. Waiting Too Long to Book Your Hotel
I’ve seen it too many times—clients wait until the last minute to book their pre- or post-cruise hotel, only to find limited availability or sky-high prices. Ports like Miami, Fort Lauderdale, and Los Angeles can have tens of thousands of cruisers needing rooms on the same nights, which drives rates up fast. I always recommend booking early, and if flexibility is a concern, go with a refundable rate. It might cost a bit more up front, but it gives you peace of mind—and a better chance at the right hotel.
2. Overpaying for Parking
Being landlocked, most of my clients aren’t close enough to be driving to the port, but for those lucky few, parking can sneak up as one of those hidden costs that quickly add up. I’ve helped many clients save hundreds just by choosing hotels that offer “park and cruise” packages or “park & fly” discounted long-term parking for those who have to fly to the port city. Even a great hotel rate isn’t a deal if you’re paying $50–$75 a night to park. I always look for options where you can safely leave your car without draining your travel budget—so you can put that money toward a cabin upgrade or an unforgettable shore excursion instead.
3. Booking a Hotel Without a Shuttle to the Port
Don’t forget about transport to the ship! I always recommend booking a hotel close to the cruise port, or even better, a hotel with a shuttle to the port to avoid the stress of finding a ride on embarkation day. Make sure the shuttle services your cruise line and fits your schedule. It’s a small cost for peace of mind and hassle-free travel on the big day.
4. Staying Too Far From the Port
It’s tempting to book a hotel far from the port to save money, but I always recommend staying closer to avoid traffic, expensive rideshares, or stress on embarkation day. You don’t want to miss that first cocktail onboard because you’re stuck in traffic. Choose convenience over savings, unless the distance is really worth it.
5. Not Choosing a Refundable Hotel Rate
I know the cruise itself is the bigger expense, but don’t forget about your hotel. Always opt for a refundable hotel rate. A small price difference can give you peace of mind in case you need to cancel or change plans due to unforeseen issues.
6. No Onsite Dining or Nearby Restaurants
Starting your vacation with a great meal is key. Check if the hotel has onsite dining, or if there are good restaurants nearby. You don’t want to be stuck with limited options or a closed restaurant when you’re ready to start your trip.
7. Not Checking Occupancy Rules
If you’re traveling with a group, make sure to check the hotel’s occupancy rules and fees. Some places charge extra for additional guests—even if the room feels spacious. Knowing this up front helps you avoid surprises.
8. Ignoring Resort Fees
Some hotels, especially in popular ports like Miami, add daily resort fees for amenities you might not even use. Make sure to factor these into your budget, especially if you’re only staying one night and won’t be taking advantage of the extra services.
Choosing the right hotel for your pre- or post-cruise stay might seem like a small part of the trip, but it can make all the difference. By avoiding these common mistakes, you can save time, money, and stress, ensuring your cruise experience starts (and ends) on the right note.
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If you have any questions or need help finding the perfect hotel for your next cruise, I’m here to assist. Reach out to me today to get personalized advice, and let’s make sure your entire trip is seamless from start to finish!
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