Know BEFORE you GO!
I'm listing a few tips to know before you go on a cruise!
Trip Insurance is offered by the cruise line - and you can save by purchasing on your own through places like (all trip insurance) or (insuremytrip) they offer better rates and you can pick exactly what coverage you need. I Think it's a must if you are traveling during hurricane season (one of the best budget times to go on a cruise). Most health insurance companies will not cover you if your in a different country but travel insurance will. It will be inexpensive for the young and rates will increase the older you get. But worth the peace of mind at any age.
Before you go you should know that passports are strongly recommended they are not always required but in my opinion its another must! It's much better to be prepared than to be sorry later! I haven't found a way to save on a passport but if you need one quickly there are services that you can expedite the process.
When you go ashore don't forget to take the ships phone numbers with you they are usually listed on the daily paper along with port police departments and port agents. This could be very useful in an emergency situation. Its a good idea to take copies of your passports with you too!
Don't forget to travel with a little cash for tipping. In most cases now your tips will be automatically charged to your account on the ship - which will include the waiters/& cabin stewards. Tour operators/bus drivers, room service and porters will all be waiting for tips and its good to keep small bills on hand.