Gary Bembridge author of "The Cruise Traveler's Handbook" provides another 60-Second Cruise Tip. For more visit http://www.60secondcruisetips.com and subscribe free to the podcast on iTunes, Stitcher Radio and TuneIn Radio

Shareholder benefitsIf you own shares in a cruise line you may be able to get on-board benefits when you sail with them. Stock exchange listed companies, like Carnival, Royal Caribbean and Norwegian, offer these perks. In order to receive them you have to own a minimum number of shares (usually 100), contact the line before you travel to request them and provide proof that you own their stock. They do not make it easy to claim the perk so start the process well in advance of travelling. To how to get them check the line’s corporate pages or search on Google for “(name of cruise line) stockholder benefits".The benefits change over time so stay up to date of what they are currently offering. Some examples of the additional benefits have been: • Carnival: $250 on-board credit for cruises of over 14 days • Norwegian Cruise Line: $100 on-board credit for cruise of over 7 daysThese benefits should not be the main reason for buying cruise line shares and you must make considered investment decisions before investing money. You also need to be aware that they can change their policy and requirements at any time.