Cruise cruises cheap bargain

At a time when other cruise lines are inching their fares back up, after a round of exceptionally low post-Sept. 11 offers, Regal Cruises, the budget cruise operator, is offering a Spring Super Sale on sailings from its winter/spring base in Port Manatee, Fla.

The rates the line is offering on select sailings are really cheap, in some cases trimming up to 40 percent off already-low prices.

This all comes with a caveat, though: This line is basically the K mart of the industry, and operates one ship, the old (built way back in 1953) and somewhat dumpy Regal Empress.

That's not to say you can't have a fun time on the 925-passenger vessel. The Regal Empress even offers some remnants of shipbuilding's Golden Age, including etched-glass mirrors, a wood-paneled library and a lounge with sunken seating areas. The vessel has been upgraded with new teak decks, an Internet Cafe and other amenities.

A refurbishment in 2000 added faux-finish paint in the cabins and Art Deco posters throughout the vessel (think South Beach on the high seas!).

But remember that you get what you pay for, and be aware that this vessel in no way resembles the super modern megaships you see in TV ads.

About that sale pricing - Regal is offering a three-night cruise to Key West, with an April 11 departure, for $249 to $559, depending on which cabin you choose. You get most of a day and night (rather than just a few hours) to explore Key West's colorful Duval Street, watch the sunset from Mallory Square, and stop for a beer at Sloppy Joe's.

Regal is also offering five-night cruises to Progresso/Merida and Cozumel, Mexico, departing April 28 and May 19, and a five-night cruise that includes Key West, Playa del Carmen and Cozumel, departing June 16. They are all sale priced from $299 to $669.

If you are looking for a longer option, also on sale are seven- night sailings departing April 14 and 21, and May 12 that stop in Key West; Belize; Roatan, Honduras; and Cozumel. Originally $599 to $1,469, they are now $499 to $934.

When making a booking, you must mention fare code SPR to get the sale prices.

Port Manatee is about a 24-hour drive from Boston by car; about 30 hours by train; or fly direct to Tampa.

For reservations, call your travel agent or 800-270-7245; for more information, go to www.regalcruises.com.