You can explore on your own more cheaply -- especially in ports where you just want to walk around. If you snag a taxi or book a tour locally, be warned that the responsibility is yours. The ship won't wait for you if you're late getting back.

• Don't get taken: Scam artists frequent the piers and touristy areas at ports of call. Be wary of people on the street or in stores offering deals too good to be true, because that's usually what they are.

• Shopping ashore: Before you leave home, decide what expensive items -- like jewelry or crystal -- you might want, and check the price online or in a local store. This will give you an idea whether the prices you see abroad are a good deal.

Be aware that ship-recommended stores usually are required to have a return policy, but may have somewhat higher prices. Other stores at ports of call may have lower prices but no guarantee of quality or return.

•  Shopping on board: Ship stores generally will meet any price ashore if you can prove it, but their stock is often limited. Still, you can sometimes get good bargains on board -- especially on ''sale'' days near the end of the cruise.

• Special services: Some ships charge for exclusive deck spaces, some for ice cream not taken in the dining room, some for onboard tours, some for use of fitness machines. Avoid art auctions.

• Tipping: Don't skimp. Ship service personnel work long hours to make your trip pleasant. Follow the ship-recommended guidelines for tipping -- about $10 per person per day -- or more if you feel you've received extra or superior service. Do not tip bar waiters; their tips are included in the price of drinks.