A Million Ways to Slice a Cruise Fare

Tracking cruise fare pricing is getting a bit comical these days. Every single line has its own promotion offering meaty discounts off the "brochure" fare or free shore excursions or thousands of dollars worth of onboard credits or "free" air or some other perceived perk.

Luxury cruise lines have made a point to announce to the media that they've all enjoyed strong bookings in recent days. As such, some lines like Regent Seven Seas, Oceania, and Silversea are all planning on raising fares in the coming months.

Yet other lines, like SeaDream and Crystal Cruises have released lower fares for select cruises in 2009 and 2010.

So what gives? Is the economy strengthening or are people just getting sick and tired of putting off their vacations? Maybe it's a little bit of both.

The fact of the matter is this: it's nearly impossible to compare some of these cruise deals in an apples to apples fashion. So don't. Select your favorite cruise line or your desired destination or pick a date that you're free to sail and then review your options and pricing.

2009 was the year to get the lowest rate ever for a luxury cruise. In 2010, let's concentrate on committing to the best vacation option for us as individuals. Each cruise line shines in its own special way and we all gravitate to one over another for very personal reasons. For me, I'd happily embark on any cruise ship tomorrow in search of an adventure! Who wants to join me?!

—Andrea M. Rotondo for LuxuryCruiseBible.com