Book by: ASAP
Travel by: August 29–September 6, 2009
The deal
This time of year everyone starts making summer vacation plans, and as a result cruise prices shoot through the roof. Luckily, our editors have hunted down two Caribbean itineraries from Carnival Cruise Lines that are priced up to 76 percent off rack rates.
While the average sale rates on seven-night summer cruises hover around the $750-$800, these island-hopping voyages start at just $439.
This voyage aboard the Carnival Valor will take you off the usual Western Caribbean route and into Central America starting from just $439. The ship embarks from Miami on August 30, and after a day spent at sea it will make its first stop at Grand Cayman.
From there, the ship heads to Roatan, Honduras where passengers can scuba dive and snorkel in bathtub-temperature waters. Next up is Belize City, where jungle adventures like zip lining and tubing await.
The next and last port of call before returning to Miami is Cozumel, Mexico. Optional shore excursions at this port include a visit to the ancient Mayan ruins, glass bottom boat tours, and more.
If you’d rather go the Eastern Caribbean route, take a look at this sailing aboard the Carnival Glory starting from $469, which has been marked down dramatically from its original price of $1,769.
Departing from Port Canaveral on August 29, the first port of call the ship visits is Nassau, in the Bahamas. This popular cruise port offers white-sand beaches, Vegas-style casinos, and crystal-clear waters.
After spending the day at sea the next stop is St. Thomas in the Virgin Islands, an ideal place to pick up some duty-free souvenirs, or take an island tour before sailing on to St. Maarten, the half-Dutch, half-French-owned island. Here passengers can relax on a secluded beach, go horseback riding, or scuba diving before sailing back to Port Canaveral.
The dollars
All quotes are per person and based on double occupancy. Rates cover accommodations, meals and entertainment on the ship. Fees and taxes, as well as shore excursions, personal expenses, alcoholic beverages, and tips are additional.
The catch
You'll be sailing in peak hurricane season.
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