Looking for a cruise that won’t break the bank? Nowadays, anyone can take a cruise, with various cruise lines such as Royal Caribbean and MSC catering to families and providing excellent value for money.
This article will detail the most budget-friendly cruise lines, providing tips on securing the best bargains and promotions for each line.
What Are the Cheapest Cruise Lines?
The cheapest cruise line is MSC Cruises, with their cheapest cruise starting at only $80 per person. Additionally, MSC’s cheapest 7 night cruise starts at only $269 per person. However, it’s important to remember that the final cost of your cruise can vary based on several factors, such as the time of year, duration, and destinations you visit.
Additionally, there are other cruise lines that also offer budget-friendly options without compromising on quality. These include P&O Cruises, Costa Cruises, and Royal Caribbean. These lines are known for providing enjoyable cruise experiences tailored to families and individuals looking for an affordable vacation at sea.
Below is a table of the cheapest cruise lines, ordered by their cheapest actual price for 7 nights:
| Cruise Line | Cheapest Cruise | Cheapest Cruise (7 Nights) |
|---|---|---|
| MSC Cruises | Base Fare: $80pp Actual Price: $310pp | Base Fare: $269pp Actual Price: $538pp |
| Carnival Cruise Line | Base Fare: $153pp Actual Price: $470pp | Base Fare: $417pp Actual Price: $555pp |
| P&O Cruises | Base Fare: $352pp Actual Price: $352pp | Base Fare: $567pp Actual Price: $567pp |
| Celebrity Cruises | Base Fare: $219pp Actual Price: $371pp | Base Fare: $299pp Actual Price: $682pp |
| Royal Caribbean | Base Fare: $191pp Actual Price: $615pp | Base Fare: $299pp Actual Price: $695pp |
| Costa Cruises | Base Fare: $172pp Actual Price: $343pp | Base Fare: $809pp Actual Price: $969pp |
| Holland America Line | Base Fare: $69pp Actual Price: $118pp | Base Fare: $969pp Actual Price: $1,209pp |
| Norwegian Cruise Line | Base Fare: $320pp Actual Price: $586pp | Base Fare: $1,237pp Actual Price: $1,237pp |
| Princess Cruises | Base Fare: $472pp Actual Price: ≈$487pp | Base Fare: $1,767 Actual Price: ≈$1,802 |
List of Cheapest Cruise Lines
Here is a list of the cheapest cruise lines, along with tips on how to save money on each line:
MSC Cruises
MSC Cruises is often thought of as the most budget-friendly cruise line. It’s a cruise line that caters to everyone, offering many sailings around the Mediterranean. However, you can also find cruises to other exciting destinations, such as the Caribbean and the Mediterranean. The best deals will be found on MSC’s older vessels. While the newest cruise ships, such as MSC Euribia and MSC World Europa, will come with a heftier price tag.
When booking with MSC, you’ll find that there are three main types of experiences to choose from. ‘Bella’ is the least expensive and comes with guaranteed cabins, making it perfect for those on a tight budget. If you’re willing to spend a bit more, the ‘Fantastica’ tier offers free in-room breakfast and the ability to select your type of room. For those looking for a more luxurious experience, the ‘Aurea’ level provides access to exclusive amenities, specialty dining options, and additional discounts, albeit at a higher cost.
Make sure to join MSC’s loyalty program, known as the Voyager’s Club, to access great deals and perks. Additionally, MSC often has promotions where kids aged 17 and under can sail for free as the third or fourth person in most cabins (except for Yacht Club rooms). When you’re planning a trip with MSC, keep in mind that Wi-Fi and specialty drinks are usually not included in the base fare.
Price range: ≈$50 to $100 per person, per night
Savings to consider: Voyager’s Club, Kids Sail Free
Cheapest cruise (7 nights): Northern Europe, 7 nights
Cheapest cruise (overall): MSC Grand Voyages, 3 nights
Carnival Cruise Line
Carnival Cruise Line offers some of the most budget-friendly cruises out there. You’ll find Carnival sailing all across the globe, though they primarily focus on the Caribbean. So, if you’re near the coast in places like Florida, New York, Alabama, or Texas, you’re sure to find an amazing deal on a cruise. Carnival makes it easy to hop on a cruise ship without breaking the bank, making it a go-to choice for many travelers.
When looking for an affordable Carnival cruise, keep in mind that the initial lower price might mean that not everything is included. This could lead to spending a bit more money on board for extra amenities such as internet and drink packages. However, most Carnival ships come packed with lots of amenities, such as endless entertainment options, restaurants, a fitness center, and pools.
One of the best ways to secure deals and promotions on Carnival Cruises is by spending money in the onboard casino. As you play games and participate in casino activities, you’re likely to start receiving offers. Joining the Carnival VIFP (Very Important Fun Person) Club is another effective strategy for accessing special promotions. Don’t forget to regularly check the “Deals” section on Carnival’s official website, where promotions like reduced deposits, discounts of up to 30% on select itineraries, or complimentary beverage packages might pop up.
Price range: ≈$100 to $250 per person, per night
Savings to consider: Carnival VIFP Club, Casino Discounts
Cheapest cruise (7 nights): 8-Day South Pacific from Sydney, Australia
Cheapest overall cruise: 2-Day Getaway from Sydney, Australia
P&O Cruises
P&O Cruises is popular among British travelers looking for an affordable cruise. While they do have new cruise ships like the MS Arvia and Iona, these tend to come with a higher price tag. For those looking for an affordable P&O cruise, consider a voyage on one of the line’s older vessels. These older ships have all been refurbished and are kept in excellent condition.
One of the best features of P&O Cruises is their approach to gratuities. Unlike other popular cruise lines, such as Royal Caribbean and Carnival, P&O doesn’t automatically add gratuity charges to your bill. This policy can help travelers save a significant amount of money, making it easier to enjoy your cruise vacation without worrying about additional expenses.
Additionally, P&O Cruises often has special offers that can help you save hundreds of dollars. These promotions can include deals where the third and fourth guests in a booking can sail at no extra cost, and deals where children can cruise for free. Such deals are perfect for families or groups looking to experience a cruise together while keeping costs down.
Price range: ≈$70 to $150 per person, per night
Savings to consider: Kids Sail Free, Discounts on Third and Fourth Guests
Cheapest cruise (7 nights): Northern European City Escape, 7 Nights
Cheapest cruise (overall): Belgium, 3 Nights
Celebrity Cruises
Celebrity Cruises is a mid-tier line known for its top-notch service, elegant accommodations, and high-end dining. It has a fleet of 16 ships and offers voyages to destinations all around the globe. While it’s designed with adults in mind, you’ll find plenty of amenities and activities that cater to all ages.
One of the best features of Celebrity Cruises is their frequent balcony upgrade promotions, which allow guests to enjoy stunning views from their own private space at sea. Additionally, they offer repositioning cruises, which are a great way to experience the high standards of Celebrity at a more affordable price. For those looking to get the most value, the All Included package is a popular option, as it can save passengers hundreds of dollars onboard by bundling services and amenities into one price.
If you’re looking to save on your Celebrity Cruises vacation, the cruise line frequently offers promotions and discounts. These may include special pricing for early bookings, onboard credit, or package deals that bundle accommodations with airfare or excursions. If you’re a frequent cruiser, consider joining the Captain’s Club loyalty program, which gives you access to exclusive perks and discounts.
Price range: ≈$75 to $200 per person, per night
Savings to consider: Balcony Upgrades, Repositioning Cruises, Captain’s Club
Cheapest cruise (7 nights): Alaska Southbound Glacier
Cheapest cruise (overall): Key West & Bahamas
Royal Caribbean
When it comes to affordable cruise lines, Royal Caribbean may not always be the first choice. Their newest ships, like the Icon of the Seas and Wonder of the Seas, tend to come with high price tags. However, if you’re willing to sail on their older ships, like those from the Vision, Voyager, and Freedom classes, you can snag a good deal. While it might be a bit trickier, you could even find budget-friendly fares on older Quantum and Oasis class cruise ships.
Despite not being the cheapest, Royal Caribbean offers great value for families. With a wide range of amenities and activities onboard, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. From thrilling water slides to Broadway-style shows, the cruise line ensures there’s never a dull moment during your cruise.
The best deals on Royal Caribbean are usually found on their Caribbean cruises. One popular promotion is the “Kids Sail Free” offer, where children under 12 can cruise for free when sharing a cabin with two paying adults. Additionally, Royal Caribbean often runs sales offering discounts on the second guest in a cabin, sometimes up to 50% off, making it more affordable for couples or friends traveling together.
Price range: ≈$60 to $100 per person, per night
Savings to consider: Kids Sail Free, Discounts on Second Guest
Cheapest cruise (7 nights): Southbound Alaska & Hubbard Glacier
Cheapest overall cruise: 2 Night Ensenada Cruise
Costa Cruises
Costa Cruises, an Italian-based line, primarily offers cruises around the Mediterranean, though you might also find some headed to the Caribbean. What makes Costa stand out is its low prices all year round, making it a budget-friendly option for many travelers. While you might not find as many onboard amenities and activities compared to other lines, there’s still a good variety to keep most guests entertained.
For those looking to save even more, joining Costa Cruise’s C|Club can be a great move. Membership in this club opens up access to exclusive rewards and privileges that can enhance your cruising experience, offering even more value for your trip. Families, in particular, will find Costa Cruises appealing due to the numerous deals available, including discounts for children.
Price range: ≈$50 to $130 per person, per night
Savings to consider: C|Club, Family Discounts
Cheapest cruise (7 nights): 8 Days, Mediterranean
Cheapest cruise (overall): 3 Days, Mediterranean
Holland America Line
Holland America Line is known for being a bit more upscale compared to other cruise lines, though it still offers lots of deals and great value for money. They even offer very affordable short cruises, lasting just 1 or 2 days. With a fleet of 11 ships, Holland America Line takes its passengers to destinations all around the globe, from Alaska, the Caribbean, to the historic ports of Europe.
One of the best perks of sailing with Holland America Line is their special offers for families. For instance, on select sailings, children under 18 can cruise for free. Additionally, they often have promotions that include discounted airfares to the port of departure, free internet minutes to stay connected while at sea, and onboard credit that you can spend on various amenities and activities.
Additionally, Holland America Line frequently runs promotions where the third or fourth guest in a room can sail for free. If you’re a frequent cruiser, consider joining the line’s loyalty program: the Mariner Society. This program is designed to reward loyal guests with a variety of benefits and perks that can help save money.
Price range: ≈$100 to $200 per person, per night
Savings to consider: Mariner Society, Kids Cruise Free, Discounts on 3rd/4th Guests, Onboard Credit
Cheapest cruise (7 nights): 8-Day Eastern Caribbean: Greater Antilles & Leeward Islands
Cheapest overall cruise: 1-Day Pacific Northwest
Norwegian Cruise Line
Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) might not be the most affordable line out there, but it certainly offers great value for your money. This is because NCL often includes free drinks, Wi-Fi, and even excursions in the base fare. The company has a fleet of 19 ships and offers cruises all over the globe. It’s worth noting that the fares for their newest ships, like Viva and Prima, tend to be on the higher side.
Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) is famous for its all-inclusive “Free at Sea” promotions. This means that when you book your cruise, you can choose extras like free drinks, Wi-Fi, or even excursions without paying more than your base fare. It’s a great way to make your cruise more enjoyable without any additional costs.
If you’re looking for special deals, you might want to join the NCL Latitudes Reward Program. This program offers exclusive benefits and deals that aren’t available to everyone. Also, NCL often has offers where children can cruise for free as part of their “kids sail free” promotions, making it an even more attractive option for families looking to enjoy a vacation at sea.
Price range: ≈$100 to $200 per person, per night
Savings to consider: Free at Sea, Kids Sail Free, NCL Latitudes Reward Program
Cheapest cruise (7 nights): Canada & New England from New York, New York
Cheapest cruise (overall): Caribbean: Puerto Plata from Punta Cana (La Romana), Dominican Republic
Princess Cruises
Princess Cruises is slightly more upscale when compared to other lines. Despite this, the line manages to keep its cruise fares accessible, making it a popular choice for travelers seeking great value. Princess sails across the world and offers plenty of discounts throughout the year.
Princess Cruises has fare packages like Princess Plus and Premier Fares. While these packages do increase the overall cost of your trip, they come packed with benefits. Included in these deals are Wi-Fi access, drink packages, gratuities, and the potential to save up to 66% compared to buying these services separately.
Additionally, Princess Cruises is known for its many promotions, which can include up to 40% off regular prices and low deposit requirements of only $100. The line also offers cheap cruise deals where kids sail free, making it a great choice for families. Princess Cruises also offers up to $250 in free onboard spending for active military and retired veterans.
Price range: ≈$75 to $200 per person, per night
Savings to consider: Kids Sail Free, Discounts for Military, Low Deposit Deals
Cheapest cruise (7 nights): 8-Day Western Caribbean with Mexico
Cheapest cruise (overall): 2-Day Australia Seacation
Top 8 Cheapest Cruise Lines for Your Next Vacation – FAQ
What is a good price for a cruise?
A good price for a cruise can vary widely based on the destination, the cruise line, and the time of year. However, as a general guideline, a cheap cruise price per person per day is anywhere under $150. For a 7-night cruise, a good total price per person is anything under $1400. Although sometimes it’s worth paying more to get better value.
What is the cheapest month to cruise?
The cheapest months to go on a cruise vary by destination due to factors like weather and tourist seasons. For the Caribbean, September is often the least expensive month because it’s the peak of hurricane season. In Alaska, May and September are cheaper since they’re at the start and end of the cruising season, avoiding the busy and pricey summer months. For the Mediterranean, November through March is generally less expensive, outside the peak tourist season, although the weather can be cooler and less predictable.
When is the cheapest time to book a cruise?
The cheapest time to book a cruise is often during “wave season,” which runs from January to March, when cruise lines offer great deals to encourage early bookings for the year. Additionally, booking either well in advance or last minute can also snag you some good discounts. Early bookings might get you lower prices and better cabin choices, while last-minute deals are great for those flexible with their plans and not too picky about cabin locations.
How can I save money on a cruise?
Saving money on a cruise can start with booking your trip during the off-peak seasons. During these times, cruise lines often offer lower prices and special deals to attract more guests. Another smart way to save is by being flexible with your departure ports; sometimes, driving or flying a short distance to a different port can significantly lower the cost of your cruise. Also, consider booking an interior cabin since they are usually cheaper than ocean-view or balcony rooms, which can greatly reduce your overall spending.
Once on board, you can also save money by avoiding extra expenses. Stick to the free dining options available on the cruise instead of dining at specialty restaurants, which often charge additional fees. Take advantage of the free entertainment and activities provided, rather than spending extra on paid experiences or excursions.
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