How to Find Affordable Luxury Cruise Deals, Including Last-Minute Offers
- Travel
- By Kirstie H. on
Luxury cruises have become more affordable than ever. Searching online for last-minute sailings is a good first step toward planning the ideal getaway.
Ready to leave your worries on shore? Last-minute cruise deals have never been simpler to find. Whether the goal is to stay within a budget or just to enjoy a trip without overspending, the tips below explain how to land the best cruise deals.
Where Last-Minute Bargains Come From
The cruise industry has changed a great deal since the COVID-19 pandemic began. Higher demand, combined with ships sailing at reduced capacities, has pushed prices up. Even so, travelers who know where to look can still find last-minute deals. Many travel companies and cruise lines run seasonal discounts and offer special bonus perks. These are the main ways to find cheap cruises:
Try a Cruise Search Website
Some websites exist specifically to help travelers find the best online cruise deals. Sites such as CruiseCritic.com publish detailed cruise pricing data along with current discounts and perks, making it easier to get the most value from a last-minute booking.
To start, go online, sort the available cruises by lowest price or by popularity, and compare the offers. Occasionally a deal can cut the cost of a desired cruise by 50%. It also pays to watch for onboard cruise credits and food and drink packages.
Pick the Cheapest Time of Year
Some times of year are better than others for bargains. Travelers headed to Mexico or the Caribbean can save hundreds of dollars by sailing between June 1 and November 30. Those months fall within hurricane season, so big savings are common for anyone willing to travel then. Anyone booking a cruise during hurricane season should consider travel insurance that covers trip interruption and trip cancellation. The policy should also cover all prepaid and non-refundable expenses if the trip is canceled.
Spring and fall are also good times to find low fares. Children are usually in school then, so many families cannot travel, which leaves ships with more availability and lower prices.
Check the Cruise Lines Directly
For travelers willing to spend a little time visiting each cruise line's website, some of the best discounted fares and bonus offers can turn up. Some of the cheapest deals include:
- Norwegian Cruise Line: Up to 70% off select itineraries and airfare is available right now. The deal comes with perks such as an open bar, complimentary specialty dining, free wifi, and a generous $50 excursion credit toward each tour.
- Oceania Cruises: Two-for-one cruise fares are on offer for select sailings. Free roundtrip airfare and complimentary transfers are included, plus up to $800 to spend on amenities such as wifi, excursions, beverage packages, and shipboard credits.
- Virgin Voyages: Adults-only summer cruises are currently discounted by up to 40%. All sailors also get complimentary non-alcohol drinks (including still and sparkling water, non-pressed juices, sodas, teas, and coffee), free wifi, food, and access to group workout classes.
Join a Cruise Loyalty Program
Frequent cruisers should consider a loyalty program. These programs reward travelers with exclusive perks, discounts, and reduced fares. Popular choices include:
- VIFP Club with Carnival Cruise Line: Members get up to 35% off fares, $50 in onboard credits, and access to the latest deals and exclusive bonuses.
- Explorer Society with Viking Cruises: Joining earns travel credits toward future voyages, entry to members-only cocktail parties on board, and limited-time offers.
- Captain's Circle with Princess Cruises: The program gives back more with every 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 need to pay more than necessary. Start searching online today, and the savings on a trip could reach hundreds of dollars.