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Cruising is a fantastic way to see the world and enjoy a vacation at sea. For military families, it’s even better when they can save money! Many cruise lines offer special deals just for military personnel. If you serve in the armed forces or are a veteran, here are 10 popular cruise lines that offer military discounts. These discounts can make your dream vacation more affordable and enjoyable.
1. Carnival Cruise Line
Carnival Cruise Line is one of the most well-known cruise companies and a favorite among families. They operate around the globe, offering fun and relaxing cruises. Their military discount applies to especially lower fares for active and retired U.S. military members. The good news doesn’t stop at just the service member; their friends and family can enjoy the discounted rate when they travel together in the same stateroom.
To get the discount, you’ll need to provide proof of military service, such as an ID card or discharge papers. Once verified, you are set for an enjoyable trip filled with onboard activities, entertainment, and great dining options.
2. Royal Caribbean International
Royal Caribbean International is another amazing cruise line that offers military discounts. Known for their innovation, they have cruise ships equipped with rock-climbing walls, surf simulators, and even skydiving experiences! For military veterans and active-duty personnel, they offer special rates on most sailings.
Their military discount includes savings on a range of stateroom categories. Royal Caribbean frequently updates their special offers, so it’s a good idea to check their website often. Make sure to have your necessary documentation ready to claim your discount.
3. Norwegian Cruise Line
Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) offers a unique Freestyle Cruising experience, where there are no fixed dining times or dress codes. It’s perfect for those who love flexibility. They also have a generous military discount for active duty, retired military, veterans, and their spouses.
With Norwegian’s military discount, you can explore great destinations worldwide, including the Caribbean, Europe, and Alaska. Plus, they often run promotions that enable you to combine your military discount with other great deals, like free shore excursions or dining packages. All that’s required is proper military documentation when you book.
4. Princess Cruises
Princess Cruises, famous for their elegant ships and exotic itineraries, also honors military families with special discounts. They have a “Military Benefit Program,” which offers up to $250 onboard spending money for veterans, retired, and active-duty military personnel. This complimentary onboard credit can be used for spa treatments, specialty dining, shore excursions, and more, making your cruise even more enjoyable.
This cruise line has a plethora of voyages ranging from Alaska to the Caribbean to Europe. Claiming the discount is straightforward; just have your military documents ready and reach out to their customer service.
5. MSC Cruises
MSC Cruises, a European-based cruise line that sails globally, also extends military discounts to their guests. They offer year-round military discount rates to active duty and retired military personnel and their families. Special promotions, like kids sailing free and free drink packages, often accompany these military rates, providing even more value.
MSC is known for its luxurious ships and kid-friendly amenities, making it a suitable choice for family vacations. To access the discounts, provide valid military identification when booking your cruise.
6. Disney Cruise Line
Disney Cruise Line is magical for everyone, but especially for military families who can take advantage of amazing discounts. Disney offers special military rates on select sailings, which are typically significantly lower than the standard rates.
These military discounts are available on a limited number of staterooms per sailing, so it’s important to book early. The special rates apply to active and retired military members, including the Coast Guard and National Guard. To qualify, just show your military ID or other proof of service when making your reservation. Your family can then enjoy Disney’s world-class entertainment, character experiences, and family-friendly activities at sea.
7. Celebrity Cruises
Celebrity Cruises is known for its modern luxury and exceptional service, and they extend their hospitality to military families with great discounts. Active duty military and veterans can enjoy lower rates on various itineraries. They also offer perks like onboard credits and special savings on certain sailings.
Celebrity’s fleet of ships offers a premium cruising experience with gourmet dining, cool bars, and relaxing spas. To access their military discount, simply provide proof of your military status when booking. This lets you indulge in a sophisticated cruise vacation without breaking the bank.
8. Holland America Line
Holland America Line offers refined cruising experiences and also recognizes the sacrifices made by military personnel. They extend military discounts to active duty, retired military, and veterans. This can encompass lower fares and promotion-specific benefits such as onboard spending credits.
With a focus on destinations like Alaska, Europe, and Asia, Holland America provides a more traditional cruising experience with modern amenities. Booking with their military discount is simple—present your military ID or other proof of service to take advantage of these savings.
9. Costa Cruises
Costa Cruises, an Italian cruise line, sails to a variety of exciting destinations, offering the charm of European cruising. They offer military discounts which can be used by active service members, veterans, and their families. Costa frequently has special promotions, so you might find additional savings or benefits when you combine the offers.
The process for claiming a military discount with Costa Cruises involves presenting valid military identification at the time of booking. Once verified, your family can enjoy exploring beautiful destinations with a touch of Italian hospitality.
10. Azamara
Azamara focuses on destination immersion, allowing you to spend more time in ports and enjoy culturally rich experiences. They also honor military personnel with special discounts. Active duty, veterans, and retired military members can access these benefits, making luxury cruising more accessible.
Their smaller ships provide an intimate and luxurious experience, with premium dining and unique itineraries. You’ll need to provide proof of military service to secure the discount, adding an extra layer of joy to your exploration of the world’s hidden gems.
Tips for Maximizing Your Military Discount
Book Early
Military discounts are often limited to a certain number of staterooms per sailing. To ensure you get the best rate, try booking as early as possible. Early booking not only secures your discount but also gives you a broader selection of cabins and itineraries.
Verify Eligibility
Each cruise line has slightly different criteria for what qualifies as proof of military service. Make sure you have the correct documents to avoid any hurdles. Military IDs, discharge papers, and other forms of verification are commonly accepted.
Combine Discounts
Many cruise lines allow you to stack your military discount with other ongoing promotions. Keep an eye on additional deals like early booking bonuses, onboard credits, or special holiday offers. Combining these can lead to even more savings and perks.
Use a Travel Agent
Sometimes working with a travel agent who specializes in military travel can help you find the best deals. They often have inside knowledge of upcoming promotions and can navigate the booking process for you. Plus, they can make sure you have all the necessary paperwork in order.
Check the Fine Print
Read the terms and conditions of the military discount and any other promotions you want to use. Sometimes there are blackout dates, specific sailings, or stateroom categories that apply. Knowing these details upfront ensures there are no surprises later.
Look for Last-Minute Deals
If you have a flexible schedule, keep an eye out for last-minute deals. Sometimes cruise lines offer unsold staterooms at significant discounts, and these can include military rates. This might be a gamble, but it can result in incredible savings.
Conclusion
Taking a cruise is already a special experience, but it’s even better when you can do so at a discounted rate as a thank you for your service. By taking advantage of these military discounts offered by popular cruise lines like Carnival, Royal Caribbean, and Disney Cruise Line, you can make your dream vacation more affordable.
Always remember to carry the required military documentation to authenticate your eligibility for these discounts. Planning your holiday early, leveraging travel agents, and staying informed about current promotions can help you receive the best possible deal. So, set sail on your next adventure knowing you’ve saved money while enjoying a world-class cruise experience.
Feel the ocean breeze, dine at exquisite restaurants, and explore new destinations, all while cherishing time with your loved ones. Happy cruising, and thank you for your service!