Prudent vacation shoppers will tell you spotting cheap cruise deals is just about as easy as it gets these days and that’s no surprise.

Competition for prime real estate on the high seas has become intense between cruise lines and you’ve only got to look at the number of big, brand new shiny vessels which are either rolling off the assembly lines or in production. And these ships are getting bigger and better.

These cruise liners have to be filled and this is where you, the vacation seeker can take advantage of some great cruise deals. Not only are there more ships but more holiday choices and destinations. However, a cheap cruise doesn’t mean you’ll be treated like a lower class citizen.

What Is A Cheap Cruise?

Taking a cheap cruises doesn't mean you're experience will be a cheap one. In other words, a cheap cruise means you have been able to score a great deal on a more expensive holiday.

The cruise landscape has changed considerably during the past few years with more deals being available to people. The good news is more and more people are experiencing the thrill of a cruise ship holiday because of more ships on the water and the seemingly intense competition between cruise lines to build bigger and better vessels.

When A Cheap Cruise Becomes Expensive

Getting onboard a cruiseliner at a discounted price is the first step in enjoying a cost effective holiday.

The problem is, many first time travelers are excited about scoring a great deal but don't realize in many cases that while they don't "fork out on the swings they'll usually have to pay on the roundabouts."

Here's a shortlist of expenses which could blow out your cheap cruises:

- Organized shore excursions are extremely popular but they do cost extra. Your initial cruise price will most likely not include these excursions.

- On board drinks either alcoholic or soft drinks will cost you extra. If you like to indulge the "amber fluid or hard stuff" then be aware that they will not be free and are expensive. Also be aware especially with slot machines, if you like playing the smaller denomination machines such as one and two cent slots, then they are usually in the minority.

- The on board staff do a fantastic job and deserve a little extra gratuities but there are many travelers from countries where tipping is not part of their culture so this could be a little shock to the system.

- Cruise photographs can be extremely expensive. - Medical services on board are not included as part of your cruise price.

- Services such as hair, beauty and relaxation spa treatments will also be an extra cost in most instances and can turn a cheap cruises into an expensive experience.