Looking for a great family cruise on a budget

[lordgoldeneyes]

Okay... husband, 16 yr old son, 14 yr old daughter, 11 yr old son, and myself. We've never cruised before (other than the ship my husband was on in the Navy).

We saw a show on the travel channel about cruising and my 16 yr old is very excited about going. (Freedom of the Seas looks amazing but pricey)

We are very budget conscious and want to take in some excursions as well. We need to cruise during the end of May, beginning of June due to school (all 5 of us are full-time students).

Is there a website that offers a side-by-side comparison of all the amenities offered on ships of different cruise lines?

All in all, we can only afford to spend around $3,000 for EVERYTHING. Can anyone help with where I could start looking?

[CaptainEdwardJohnSmith]

Originally Posted by lordgoldeneyes

Okay... husband, 16 yr old son, 14 yr old daughter, 11 yr old son, and myself. We've never cruised before (other than the ship my husband was on in the Navy).

We saw a show on the travel channel about cruising and my 16 yr old is very excited about going. (Freedom of the Seas looks amazing but pricey)

We are very budget conscious and want to take in some excursions as well. We need to cruise during the end of May, beginning of June due to school (all 5 of us are full-time students).

Is there a website that offers a side-by-side comparison of all the amenities offered on ships of different cruise lines?

All in all, we can only afford to spend around $3,000 for EVERYTHING. Can anyone help with where I could start looking?

That's kinda tall order for a family of 5 cruising in late May/early June for $3000 including EVERYTHING! You may be able to get away with a short cruise and NO flying involved. Good luck.

Captain

[Trip]

As the Captain, mentioned, driving to the closest port will really be the only way to fullfill your wishes...

On a quick search, driving to Tampa, this was the least expensive, one that came up:

4 Day WESTERN CARIBBEAN from $409 * Compare


Ship: Carnival Inspiration

Departs: Tampa, FL

Itinerary: Western Caribbean: Tampa, FL ; Cozumel, Mexico ; Tampa, FL

2008 Dates:
May 29
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You must add on port and taxes to every fare..3/4 and 5th in a cabin will be a less p.p.. This is from the site, a cruise travel agent, will really be advantageous to get you what you need. You can compare prices on the site as well.

Since this is a busy time for parents with kids in school, check it out asap.
Good luck!

[LisaK]

at the top of the page go to the banner marked Cruise Shopping, click on cruise bargains that is a great place to start.