Smart Ways to Score the Lowest Cruise Fares
- Travel
- By Kirstie H. on
A luxury cruise is within reach for more travelers than ever. Searching online for last-minute sailings is a good first step toward planning the ideal getaway.
Ready to leave the stress behind and head out to sea? Last-minute cruise deals are easier to find than ever. Whether the goal is to stay within a budget or simply to take a trip without overspending, the tips below can help lock in a good price.
Why Last-Minute Deals Still Exist
The cruise industry has changed a great deal since the COVID-19 pandemic began. Higher demand, paired with ships sailing at reduced capacity, has pushed prices up. Even so, bargains remain for travelers who know where to look. Many cruise lines and travel companies run seasonal discounts and offer bonus perks. These are the main ways to find a low fare.
Try a Cruise Comparison Site
Some websites exist specifically to help travelers track down cruise bargains. CruiseCritic.com, for example, publishes detailed price data along with current discounts and perks, so a last-minute booking goes further.
To get started, go online, sort the available cruises by lowest price or by popularity, and compare what each one offers. Some deals can cut the cost of a desired cruise by 50%. Also watch for onboard credits and food and drink packages.
Pick the Cheapest Time of Year
Some parts of the year are better for bargains. Anyone planning a trip to Mexico or the Caribbean can save hundreds of dollars by sailing between June 1 and November 30. Those months fall within hurricane season, which makes it a good time for big savings if a traveler is willing to go.
Booking during hurricane season calls for travel insurance that covers trip interruption and trip cancellation. A policy that also reimburses all prepaid and non-refundable expenses if the trip is canceled is a smart choice.
Spring and fall are also good seasons for low fares. Kids are usually in school then, so many families can't travel. As a result, ships tend to have more open cabins and lower prices.
Book Straight With the Cruise Line
Checking each cruise line's website one by one takes a little time, but it can turn up some of the best discounted fares and bonus offers. Some of the cheapest current deals are:
- Norwegian Cruise Line: Up to 70% off select itineraries and airfare. The offer comes with an open bar, complimentary specialty dining, free wifi, and a $50 excursion credit for each tour.
- Oceania Cruises: Two-for-one cruise fares on select sailings. Guests also get free roundtrip airfare, complimentary transfers, and up to $800 to spend on extras such as wifi, excursions, beverage packages, and shipboard credits.
- Virgin Voyages: Up to 40% off adults-only summer cruises. Every sailor also receives complimentary non-alcohol drinks (still and sparkling water, non-pressed juices, sodas, teas, and coffee), free wifi, food, and access to group workout classes.
Join a Loyalty Program
Frequent cruisers should consider signing up for a loyalty program. These programs reward travelers with exclusive perks, discounts, and lower fares. Popular choices include:
- VIFP Club (Carnival Cruise Line): Discounts of up to 35% off fares, $50 in onboard credits, and access to the newest deals and exclusive bonuses.
- Explorer Society (Viking Cruises): Travel credits toward future voyages, entry to members-only cocktail parties onboard, and limited-time offers.
- Captain's Circle (Princess Cruises): Rewards grow with each cruise taken. Perks include onboard spa discounts, excursion discounts, a complimentary minibar, priority disembarkation, and access to the Platinum and Elite lounges.
Planning the next cruise? There is no reason to pay more than necessary. Start searching online today and save hundreds of dollars on the trip.