What Are The Cheapest Cruise Options If You Live In Lubbock?

Confession: I've never been on a cruise, and I'm not exactly sure I'm a "cruise person." However, my curiosity has lately been piqued, especially as I've embarked on the journey...of getting a passport (might as well use it when I get it right?) Naturally, I looked into what the most affordable cruises would be for someone like me, who is totally landlocked in West Texas.

You (Probably) Gotta Budget For Flying

You can make Galveston in 9ish hours, so technically it is possible to drive directly to a cruise departure point. This would save you a tremendous amount of cash, but also cost you a tremendous amount of time.

Read More: Pontos: The Lightweight Kayak Changing Outdoor Recreation In Texas

The average flight to Galveston, round-trip, is going to run you about $350 per person. If you shop smart and fly at a less in-demand time or day of the week, you can make it to Florida for about the same amount of bucks.

Pick Your Point of Departure

You likely noticed I mentioned Texas and Florida ports already. These are typically the most affordable departure points for cruises. Los Angeles is also an affordable cruise departure option, but if you find a $350 round trip, please tell me about it.

Read More: What To Know About Finding Jobs In Lubbock, Texas

Where To (On The Cheap)?

At least part of the fun of the cruise is the destination. The most affordable of these are typically the Bahamas, the Caribbean, and Baja Mexico (if you choose the LA option). For a trip like these you can expect to book for $300-$400 per person for interior cabins. These cruises are usually 3 to 5 days, making them cheaper than a typical hotel stay. What a deal!

How To Hunt For The Best Deal

Besides driving, you can save by using discount search engines or websites like Costco Travel, which may have member benefits. If you are flexible, look for "last-minute" deals on cruise websites. You can also focus on cruises known for their affordability, like Carnival.