Why Now Is A Great Time To Book Your 2021 Cruise

Yes, you read the headline correctly. Even though we're still amid a global pandemic, now is a great time to book a cruise for 2021. With news of successful vaccine trials and the forthcoming rollout of vaccination programs, we can all start looking forward to a post-COVID-19 world. We're not out of the woods yet, but life should be returning to some kind of normality during 2021, and that includes being able to travel the world's oceans and rivers on an exciting cruise.

Some cruising operations have already resumed, but the majority are set to return in a phased approach during the coming months. If you're one of the many who are itching to get back out on the water, here in no particular order are the top reasons why now is a great time to book your 2021 cruise

1) Enhanced Safety Measures

Even after the vaccination has been administered far and wide, coronavirus will still be in our midst, just like the flu virus. As a result of the pandemic, cruise lines have upgraded their safety measures so that their ships will be safer than ever before. Among the new ways of ensuring guest and crew safety, which may vary with cruise lines, are:

• Strict pre-boarding screening measures

• Frequent and meticulous handwashing with water and soap or alcohol-based sanitizer

• Physical distancing in all public places

• Mask wearing in public places

• Reduced capacity onshore excursions

• Onboard testing capabilities

• Passengers who test positive while onboard will be isolated and transferred to an onshore facility. The remaining passengers and nonessential crew will be required to go into quarantine.

Rest assured, if you book, you'll be well taken care of when the time comes for you to step onboard.

2) Cheap Cruises and Beefed Up Perks and Promotions

With fleets grounded for much of 2020, cruise lines are looking to secure as much capital as possible. Consequently, they're enticing passengers with a slew of special offers, discounts, perks, and promotions. They include free gratuities, onboard credit to spend on things like spa treatments, free Wi-Fi, and drinks packages. Taking advantage of price promotions and added benefits can save you a considerable sum. Even greater cost savings can be made by booking through Travel Beyond Here with year-round access to prices well below retail value. Members have access to all major cruise lines and can save up to 15%.

3) To Get Ahead Of The Crowds

The pent-up demand will be unleashed at some point, so get ahead of the pack by booking now. Some destinations for 2021 are already filling up, so as soon as you see a deal for a cruise that you like, snap it up.

4) To Enjoy A Better Cabin Selection

Cruise lines will be sailing with fewer passengers, so booking now will give you a better cabin selection. Why not treat yourself to a cabin with a balcony for access to plenty of fresh sea air.

5) Flexible Online Cancellation Policies

To encourage people to book now, many cruise lines have instituted generous cancellation policies. In pre-COVID times you would lose part of your money if you canceled within 90 days of departure. Nowadays, several major operators will let you cancel your cruise a day or two before departure day and offer you a full refund in the form of a future cruise credit.

6) The Crowds Will Be Smaller

For the foreseeable future, cruise lines will be required to stick to social distancing measures, which will mean sailing at reduced capacity. With fewer passengers on board, everything will be less crowded and waiting times for your favorite activities will be shorter.

7) You'll Have Something To Look Forward To

There's no way of sugar-coating it; 2020 has been a grim year for all. And for many, there's a bitterly cold winter ahead. With movement still restricted between countries, people everywhere are desperate to break out of their four walls and explore the world again. We all need upcoming events to look forward to. They help us endure trying times. So, book a cruise, circle the dates on your calendar and start planning for your upcoming adventure. It'll give you a warm, fuzzy feeling every time you think about it.

8) You Really Deserve a Vacation

Let's face it; after the last 12 months, we all need a stressbuster. One of the best ways to relax and forget 2020 is with a blissful vacation to remember. You owe it to yourself to take a nice long break.

Happy Sailing!