Finding cheap cruise deals has become a rewarding way for me to enjoy luxurious vacations at sea without overspending. Picture yourself exploring exotic destinations, savoring delicious meals, and indulging in world-class entertainment—all while staying within your budget. As someone who loves cruising, I’ve dedicated countless hours to researching and experimenting with different techniques to uncover the best deals on cruises.
In this article, I’ll reveal the secrets and strategies that have consistently helped me and countless others secure incredible cruises at the lowest prices. Whether you’re an experienced cruiser or planning your first voyage, my comprehensive guide has tried and tested tactics to navigate the cruise booking process and secure your dream vacation.
From selecting the perfect cruise line and timing your bookings to taking advantage of last-minute deals, I’ll walk you through each step to ensure you find a cruise deal that fits your budget. Let’s dive in and start planning your affordable and unforgettable cruise vacation today.
How I Score Affordable Cruise Deals
My friends often ask how I manage to get cruises for as little as $50 per day. It’s not just me finding these deals; while researching for this article, I discovered many fellow cruisers sharing similar experiences. For instance, one cruiser mentioned, “Just booked an inside cabin for 3, was upgraded to a balcony for free. $1024 for 3 people in a balcony room, 7-night cruise.” which breaks down to less than $50 per day per person.
Another shared, “An 8-day, 7-night cruise for 3 of us was about $1500 on a balcony,” which is around $70 per day per person.
These examples highlight that with some savvy planning and research, finding affordable cruise deals is very achievable. By leveraging my personal experience and expertise, I’ve been able to identify and take advantage of these opportunities, and you can too.
My Research Behind Finding Cheap Cruises
For this article, I’ve combined extensive research with my personal experiences as a frequent cruiser to provide you with the best tips and insider secrets. I’ve scoured major cruise forums, discussion groups, Reddit posts, and YouTube comments on cruise videos to gather a wide range of perspectives. Additionally, I’ve consulted review sites like TripAdvisor, Cruise Critic, and Cruiseline to understand what seasoned cruisers are saying. My hands-on experience with these strategies ensures you receive practical and tested advice.
Why Cruises Offer Great Value
Cruises are some of the best-value vacations you can book. They are all-inclusive packages bundling accommodation, meals, entertainment, and transportation into an affordable package. This all-inclusive nature makes it easier to budget and often cheaper than booking each component separately. Additionally, cruises provide access to multiple destinations and countries without the hassle of coordinating travel logistics.
For example, if you book a Caribbean cruise, you can explore several sun-drenched destinations across different itineraries, each offering a unique experience in various countries. Or, think of the cultural experience you could enjoy on a Mediterranean cruise, visiting ancient cities and historic locations or island hopping through the Greek islands.
Here are some reasons why I recommend cruises as great-value vacations:
- All-inclusive packages: Accommodations, meals, and entertainment included.
- Multiple destinations: Visit various locations without extra travel costs.
- Entertainment: Broadway shows, live music, and activities onboard.
- Convenience: Unpack once and enjoy multiple stops.
- Family-friendly: Activities for all ages at no extra cost.
- Dining options: Gourmet meals, buffets, and specialty restaurants.
- Facilities included: Enjoy swimming pools, hot tubs, gyms, water slides, and fun activities.
However, it’s essential to note that many cruise lines don’t include the following in their lowest-price cruises:
- All-inclusive alcoholic drinks and sodas
- Gratuities
- Specialty restaurants
- Pampering in the spa
- Casino
Depending on your budget and needs, you can purchase add-ons to help you budget your cruise. For example, a drink package could be cost-effective, depending on your needs and the length of the cruise.
Now you know what is possible if you’re looking for the cheapest cruise fares. So, the next question is: how can you find the best prices? Read on to learn how to discover the cheapest cruise lines, utilize discounts, and use tactics on cruise booking sites to find fantastic deals.
Explore Optimal Cruise Destinations and Cruise Lines
The first step to finding the cheapest cruise prices is to compare cruise lines and destinations. Certain cruise lines are typically more affordable than others, and there’s a better chance of locking in better deals. Also, consider factors like ship age, comparison cruise booking sites, and destinations.
Luxury vs. Budget Lines
The cheapest cruise lines are typically MSC, Carnival Cruise Lines, and Royal Caribbean. These lines often offer competitive rates, especially on their older ships, and frequently run sales and promotions.
However, it’s important not to rule out other lines prematurely. While luxury lines like Celebrity Cruises and Holland America tend to be more expensive, they often include all-inclusive food and drink packages, which can make them more cost-effective when you factor in the overall experience and amenities.
When searching for the best deals, consider:
- MSC Cruises: Known for affordability, MSC often has competitive prices, especially in the Caribbean and Mediterranean markets.
- Carnival Cruise Lines: Recognized for budget-friendly options, Carnival offers a wide range of itineraries with frequent promotions.
- Royal Caribbean: Offers a balance of affordability and high-quality amenities. While not always the cheapest, Royal Caribbean provides good value for money with frequent deals on older ships.
- Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL): Offers flexible pricing and frequent promotions, making it a strong contender for affordable cruising.
- Celebrity Cruises: Though more upscale, Celebrity’s all-inclusive packages can offer good value, especially if you plan to use their dining and beverage options extensively.
- Holland America: Known for a more refined experience, Holland America sometimes includes additional perks that can offset the higher upfront cost.
Why Older Cruise Ships Offer Great Value
Don’t make the common mistake of thinking that older cruise ships are not worth the money. You can often find cheaper fares and have a fantastic cruise on an older ship. Remember that many cruise ships undergo significant refurbishments every few years. Therefore, you’ll rarely book a cruise on a ship with peeling paint, dodgy engines, or below-par facilities.
Other travelers say that some cruise lines, like Royal Caribbean, charge more per drink, drink package, and spa services on newer ships. When you board an older cruise ship—especially if this is your first cruise—you’ll hardly notice any difference, apart from cheaper prices.
Book Early for Early Bird Discounts
Booking your cruise early is one of the best ways to secure the lowest prices. The cheapest fares are typically available as soon as the itinerary is released. Early booking lets you lock in these discounted rates and choose from a wider selection of cabins. You may often find the best deals by booking a year or more in advance to get the best value for money.
I’ve found that the most expensive suites and least expensive cabins sell out quickly. One disadvantage of early booking is that if the price drops closer to the departure date, you may miss out on last-minute deals. However, many cruise lines will reduce your fare to match the lowest price or offer onboard credits to make up the difference.
It’s crucial to read the small print to understand if fare changes are possible. Some deposits, bookings, and processing fees are non-refundable at the time of booking.
For strategies on how to keep monitoring prices even after booking, check the next section on daily price monitoring for practical tools and tips.
The Power of Daily Price Monitoring
I’ve heard stories about people finding great deals by monitoring daily cruise prices. Major cruise lines use dynamic pricing strategies, meaning prices fluctuate frequently. Keeping an eye on these changes allows you to spot sudden drops and save significantly on your cruise.
For example, I read comments on a cruise YouTube channel about people who booked early but checked constantly for cheaper deals. When the price dropped, they contacted the cruise line and asked to match the price or receive onboard credits and ended up saving $700 on the same cruise. Each cruise line has its own price drop policies so it is worth knowing about it in advance.
To monitor prices after booking and watch for price drops, I recommend using websites like Cruise Plum. Additionally, consider signing up for price drop alerts on websites like Cruise Watch and Cruise Critic. These tools can help you stay informed about price changes and maximize your savings.
The Perks and Pitfalls of Last-Minute Cruise Deals
I’ve heard stories of cruisers scoring excellent deals by waiting for last-minute offers. Some cruise lines significantly drop prices at the last minute if they have many unsold cabins. I’ve found that three weeks before a cruise departure is the sweet time to look for deals. So, you could get a bargain if you’re flexible and can travel on short notice.
However, from my experience, last-minute discounting isn’t as common as it once was. Cruise lines have become savvier about revenue management, similar to airlines. It’s rare to find a lot of unsold cabins just before departure. Instead of relying on last-minute deals, I focus on other strategies to secure fantastic prices.
However, there are a few caveats to remember about last-minute cruise deals:
- You usually can’t choose specific cabins, as these deals often apply to leftover inventory
- It may cost more money in the long run if the departure point is far away
- Last-minute cruise bookings are becoming rarer
- Packing on short notice can be stressful
Be Flexible with Cabin Types
Flexibility with your cabin choice at the time of booking can lower travel expenses. For example, you can opt for a guaranteed cabin category but not a specific room. Your cabin is assigned closer to the departure date. Sometimes, I’ve enjoyed a superior room than I expected.
There’s another advantage of choosing a guaranteed cabin category when booking. A Holland America representative said passengers who book a specific cabin rarely get upgrades. This is because cruise lines assume the passenger chose that cabin for a reason.
However, many passengers say that a better room isn’t always guaranteed. Sometimes, the room is in a less desirable part of the ship—like next to a noisy entertainment venue or close to the elevator.
Choose inside cabins for cheaper prices
Most budget cruise passengers always choose inside cabins over balconies or suites to cut costs. On Caribbean cruises, I tend to spend little time in my room anyway. There’s plenty of onboard entertainment or shore excursions to enjoy during the day. The only time I’d pay for a balcony or ocean view is when cruising in Alaska or Norway.
If an ocean-view cabin or balcony is a priority for you, perhaps because you might feel claustrophobic in an inside cabin without windows, consider looking for cheaper rooms with obstructed views. This way, you still get the feeling of freedom on the open seas but at a lower price.
The Benefits of Booking Cruises Through Travel Agencies
Believe it or not, using travel agencies can be useful for getting better cruise deals. Many long-time cruisers like to book through travel agents because they receive exclusive promotions and bulk booking discounts. While travel agents may not always beat the cheapest price you can find, I’ve often had added perks like onboard credits or free excursions, making my cruise experience even more enjoyable and cost-effective.
If you’re thinking about your first cruise, you’ll find that working with a travel agent simplifies the booking process. They also share their travel expertise to ensure you get the best value for money.
The Pros and Cons of Off-Season Cruise Deals
Off-season deals are always popular with travelers looking for the cheapest cruise prices. Off-season cruises usually mean lower prices, fewer crowds, and a more relaxed experience onboard. These months typically fall outside major holidays and school vacations. Traveling off-season lets you enjoy popular destinations at reduced rates.
In my opinion, traveling in the off season doesn’t give the best cruise experience. The weather can be bad, and many tourist services don’t operate. For example, a friend booked a Caribbean cruise during hurricane season for a super-discounted fare. However, their travel plans were constantly disrupted, the sea was rough, and there were few options for shore excursions.
So, you may get the cheapest cruise price, but off-season cruising doesn’t always represent good value for money.
I’ve found that traveling during the shoulder season is the best value for money. The weather is usually adequate—not too hot or cold—tourist services are open, and discounting is available. Shoulder season refers to the time periods just before and after the peak travel seasons. You may find that shore excursions and prices in cruise destinations are cheaper in both shoulder and low-seasons.
Have Flexible Travel Dates
Most cruise travelers agree that flexibility is the number one tactic for locking in cheap cruise prices.
I’m fortunate because I work from home and can pack my case at the “drop of a hat.” If necessary, I can also work on board—as long as I can get an excellent WiFi deal. This flexibility allows me to take advantage of last-minute deals that cruise lines often offer to fill unsold cabins.
Flexibility for finding awesome cruise deals also benefits in the following ways:
- Departing from smaller ports
- Being open to different cabin options
- Choosing varied, less popular itineraries
- Traveling in mid or low-season
- Booking last-minute deals
Consider Repositioning Cruises
One of my favorite ways to score affordable cruise deals is by booking repositioning cruises, which occur when ships move from Europe or Asia to North America or the Caribbean due to seasonal changes. These cruises offer the opportunity to enjoy sunny destinations while escaping the cold during the winter months in Europe and North America.
It’s often possible to find nightly rates between $40 and $90 for the cruise. However, there are a few caveats to consider:
- Sailings are usually longer than ten days
- They attract a more mature crowd, like retirees
- You will spend longer days at sea rather than island hopping in the Caribbean
- You will have to fly back to your point of origin or departure point
The best times to look for these cruise itineraries are at the start or end of the warm-weather cruise season. Popular routes include U.S. East Coast and Caribbean sailings to and from Europe. On North America’s west coast, you can find sailings between Alaska and California, the Panama Canal, Central America, and the Caribbean.
Maximizing Savings with Cruise Discounts and Promotions
Cruise lines offer various discounts and promotions to attract new and returning customers. Most travelers who love cruising subscribe to newsletters from multiple cruise lines and travel agencies. This strategy gives them access to exclusive offers and cruise deals. I’d also recommend checking out credit cards with cruise rewards and benefits.
Reap the Rewards of Booking Onboard
Booking your next cruise onboard can offer discounts on future cruises. Most major cruise lines offer excellent deals when booking again. These can include any of the following discounts:
- Money off your next cruise, sometimes between 2 and 10 percent
- Free stateroom upgrades
- Reduced cruise line deposits or cash discounts
- Onboard credit
- Extended timeframe to book your next cruise
I’ve found that planning your next cruise vacation while at sea comes with several perks and reduces the financial burden of the following cruise.
The Perks of Cruise Line Loyalty Programs
Savvy cruisers will tell you that joining cruise line loyalty programs can be a huge advantage. These programs reward frequent cruisers with discounts, upgrades, and exclusive offers. Some benefits of these programs include members-only sales, early access to new itineraries, and extra perks onboard.
The Benefits of Group Cruise Deals
One lesser-known tactic for securing cheaper cruise deals is to look for group cruise deals. Many cruise lines offer discounted rates for groups of friends, wedding parties, and corporate groups.
For exmaple, Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) offers attractive group discounts. Currently, NCL provides benefits for booking at least 5 cabins, including free onboard credit, complimentary beverages, free specialty dining, and more. Their dedicated Groups Concierge ensures all pre-cruise arrangements, making it ideal for weddings, family reunions, and private events.
Another useful strategy I discovered through my research involves booking and paying for the entire group yourself using a credit card to collect points. You can then get reimbursed by your group members. One cruiser who booked a group cruise for a wedding recommended using an AmEx Green card to earn 3x points on cruises. They collected the signup bonus and purchase points, then used those points for another vacation. In this case, the cruiser booked with Princess Cruises, where the group booking threshold is typically eight cabins
While I haven’t personally organized a group for discounts, my research shows that contacting a travel agent or calling the cruise line directly is highly recommended. This information isn’t always advertised on their websites, so reaching out can uncover hidden opportunities for savings.
More Insider Strategies to Find Cheap Cruises
Over the years, I’ve gathered numerous tips and tricks for finding affordable cruises through personal experience and advice from fellow cruisers. These strategies have helped me secure great deals and enjoy luxurious vacations without overspending.
Here are some insider tips that can also work for bargain hunters in the cruising community.
Use of Personal Cruise Consultants
A personal cruise consultant (PCC) can provide access to exclusive deals, money-off promotions, and discounts not available online. Employed directly by the cruise line, PCCs offer one-on-one advice to passengers, enhancing the booking process and overall cruise experience. In some cases, you can also call them directly for personalized assistance.
Difference Between PCC and Travel Agent
While both PCCs and traditional travel agents assist in planning cruises, there are key differences:
Personal Cruise Consultants (PCCs):
- Work for the cruise lines.
- Contact customers based on their activity on the cruise line’s website.
- Handle bookings and services related to their specific cruise line only.
- Can be contacted directly for personalized service.
Travel Agents:
- Can work independently or for travel agencies.
- Book cruises across multiple cruise lines.
- Earn commissions from the cruise lines.
- Handle all customer service related to the booking.
For example, if you book through a traditional or online travel agent (like Expedia or Cruises.com), any service needs will be directed back to that agent. A cruise line’s PCC will not handle bookings made through other travel agents.
Pros and Cons of Using a Personal Cruise Consultant
After exploring various forums like FlyerTalk and CruiseCritic, here’s what I found about the pros and cons of using a PCC:
Pros:
- Personalized Service: Tailored advice and assistance throughout the booking process.
- Exclusive Deals: Access to special promotions and discounts.
- Convenience: Manages booking details, cancellations, and rebooking at lower prices.
- Knowledgeable: Expertise in specific cruise lines and itineraries.
Cons:
- Variable Quality: The service quality can vary significantly between consultants.
- Availability Issues: Some PCCs may be hard to contact after booking.
- Sales Pressure: Potential for upselling and pressure to book quickly.
Overall, a personal cruise consultant can be a valuable asset in planning your next cruise, ensuring you get the best possible experience and deals.
Casino Benefits
If you enjoy gambling, leveraging casino benefits can lead to discounted or even free cruises. Many cruise lines have casino loyalty programs that reward frequent players with significant perks. You can receive discounts on future cruises, cabin upgrades, and onboard credits by spending time in the casino and accumulating points. Some players have secured entire cruises at minimal cost through their casino loyalty points.
However, as with any type of gambling, there’s a significant risk of losing more money than you earn in casino rewards or credits. Personally, I’ve never used this strategy to get cheaper cruises, but many online forums discuss its benefits.
Book During Wave Season with Caution
Wave season, typically from January to March, is when cruise lines offer their best deals. The “wave” of promotions during this period are often genuine bargains. These may include free guest passengers, onboard credit, complimentary cabin upgrades, access to spas, or credit to spend in casinos.
Here are some of the types of deals you may be able to find during wave season:
- Reduced deposits
- Pay full fare, 2nd guest goes free or at a discounted fare
- Kids sail free
- Third or fourth passenger free
- Free airfare from select U.S. airports
- Prepaid gratuities
- Free WiFi
- Complimentary shore excursions or tour credit
While you can find great deals during wave season, read the small print to ensure the advertised discounts translate to significant savings.
Although booking a cruise during the wave season can result in a cheaper cruise, not all so-called bargains are good value for money. For example, one cruise forum reported that the drink package didn’t include gratuities, meaning the drinks weren’t 100 percent free.
Use Credit Cards with Cruise Benefits
Various credit cards offer perks for cruise travelers, from cashback to free travel insurance and reduced booking fees. While I personally don’t use any credit cards specifically for cruise benefits, my research found that many frequent travelers recommend the following credit cards:
- Amex Platinum: Known for robust travel insurance and onboard credits.
- Chase Sapphire Preferred: Great for earning points on travel and dining, with flexible redemption options.
- Wells Fargo Active Cash: Offers 2% cashback on all purchases with no annual fee.
- CapitalOne Quicksilver: No foreign transaction fees and 1.5% cashback on all purchases.
These cards typically offer better rewards and perks compared to cruise line-branded credit cards.
Read more: The Complete Guide to Travel Insurance for Cruisers.
Avoid Flying When Possible
From my experience, avoiding flights whenever possible has saved me a significant amount of money. Opting for cruises that depart from ports within driving distance eliminates the need for expensive airfare and hotel stays. This strategy reduces travel costs and makes the entire trip more convenient and stress-free.
For example, saving on airfares lets me allocate more of my budget toward onboard experiences and excursions. This way, I enhance my overall cruise vacation without the added expense and hassle of flying.
Onboard Savings: Expert Tips to Keep Your Cruise Costs Down
Cruising can be a wonderful experience, taking you to exotic Caribbean, Mediterranean, and Alaska cruise destinations. However, it can also be a money pit if you’re traveling on a budget. Many first-time cruisers are shocked to see their credit card statement with the final cost of onboard purchases.
The key to affordable cruising is to avoid impulse buying, stick to your budget, and focus on free activities and included amenities. Thankfully, many seasoned cruisers share their experience online on saving money on board a cruise ship. Here are the top tips:
Drink packages: Depending on how much you drink, you could save money by opting for an all-inclusive beverage package. One cruise forum suggested watching out for promotional emails as cruise lines may offer significant discounts to buy a pre-cruise drink package. Also, check the small print about bringing your own beverages on board.
Skip specialty dining: Opt for included meals in the main dining room or buffets instead of specialty restaurants. This way, you save money while still enjoying good food. If you want some privacy for a special occasion, request a separate table in the main dining room.
Avoid the ship’s WiFi: Instead of purchasing expensive onboard internet packages, use free WiFi in ports to stay connected without spending a fortune. However, some cruise lines offer free WiFi as part of their package, so it’s worth checking your cruise details to see if this is included.
Book shore excursions independently: You can save money by booking excursions through local operators rather than costly ship-organized ones. I’ve also found that you get more personalized, authentic experiences on shore. However, it’s important to note that booking independently means you assume the risk if there are delays or issues. The ship won’t wait for you if you’re late returning from an independently booked excursion, so plan carefully and allow extra time to return to the port.
Use onboard free activities: Instead of paying for additional activities, enjoy the ship’s included entertainment and amenities, such as pools, shows, and fitness centers. Of course, it’s tempting to get pampered in the spa, but the costs of additional activities can quickly add up.
Limit souvenir purchases: Set a budget for souvenirs and stick to it. Buying fewer items helps keep your expenses down on overpriced ship merchandise. I also find that keepsakes and souvenirs in ports of call are more authentic, and I feel I’m doing my bit to help the local economy.
Tips for Cheap Family Cruises
Are you planning a family cruise on a tight budget? With the right strategies, you can plan a family cruise without breaking the bank. All you have to do is look for cruise packages where kids sail free as the third or fourth guest in the cabin. With plenty of activities for children, there will be plenty to keep them occupied.
Which cruise lines have cheaper cruise packages for families? Here’s a list of top recommendations:
MSC Cruises: Several MSC Cruise packages offer promotions for kids sailing free throughout the year. Some include extra perks like beverage packages, cabin upgrades, free WiFi, and flexible booking options.
Norwegian Cruise Line: Norwegian Cruise Line’s “Free at Sea” promotion offers complimentary perks like free accommodations for up to four guests in a room for the price of two, shore excursion credits, complimentary WiFi, beverage packages, and free specialty dining. While this promotion is a regular offering, its specific benefits and availability can vary. Check current details and terms when planning your cruise to maximize these perks.
Holland America Line: This cruise line offers family-friendly deals with its “Kids Cruise Free” program, allowing two children up to 18 years old to sail free when booked as 3rd and 4th guests in a cabin. Additionally, the “Have It All” premium package includes four popular amenities: shore excursions, beverages, specialty dining, and Wi-Fi, making your cruise experience even more enjoyable and convenient.
Royal Caribbean: Set up notifications for Royal Caribbean’s “Kids Sail Free” promotions, as they don’t run throughout the year. It only includes children up to 12 years old. The cruise line also offers “Kids Sail for Less,” which gives 25 percent off the fare for third or fourth guests.
Most families who love cruises agree that Royal Caribbean is the most kid-orientated cruise line, with free sailings for kids. Many RC ships have splash parks, water slides, ice skating rinks, climbing walls, laser tag, and zip lines.
Real-Life Examples and Success Stories
Of course, the primary question is: do these tips and insider secrets translate into tangible savings when booking a cruise? Apart from my own experience, I’ve found real-life examples and success stories on the benefits of using multiple strategies to save money on cruises.
Here are a few success stories:
One traveler saved $2000 by booking a guaranteed cabin instead of selecting a specific one on Wonder of the Seas. They also told how they got a great rate on Odyssey of the Seas by opting for an obstructed ocean view cabin. The money they saved allowed them to book another cruise the following year.
The benefits of booking through a cruise travel agent are highlighted by a couple who booked a cruise to the Greek Islands. They booked through Costco Travel and received a $120 cash card and $200 onboard credit.
Finding Cheap Cruises: A Takeaway
Finding cheap cruises involves planning, flexibility, and leveraging the right strategies. By booking early, staying informed, and exploring various options, you can enjoy luxurious vacations without breaking the bank. When on board, avoid spending money on specialty dining, pay-as-you-go drinks, casinos, and cruise line excursions.
I hope the tips in this article help you embark on many affordable, unforgettable cruise adventures.
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