How to Find Cheap Last-Minute Cruise Deals and Save Big on Your Next Sailing
- Travel
- By Kirstie H. on
Luxury cruising is more within reach than ever. A quick online search for last-minute sailings is the first step toward a well-planned getaway.
Ready to leave your worries on shore and head out to sea? Booking a late cruise deal is easier than it has ever been. Anyone sticking to a budget, or simply hoping to vacation without overspending, can use the tips below to land a better price.
Why Last-Minute Deals Still Exist
Since the COVID-19 pandemic began, the cruise industry has changed a great deal. Stronger demand, combined with ships sailing at reduced capacity, has pushed prices up. Even so, bargains are still out there for travelers who know where to look. Many travel companies and cruise lines run seasonal discounts and add special bonus perks for customers. The following approaches can help turn up low fares.
Start With a Cruise Comparison Site
Some websites exist specifically to help travelers locate good cruise prices. CruiseCritic.com, for example, shares detailed price data along with current discounts and perks, so you can get the most value from a late booking.
To find the best offers, go online, sort the available sailings by lowest price or by popularity, and compare. Occasionally a deal can cut the cost of a chosen cruise by 50%. Also watch for onboard credits and food and drink packages.
Pick the Cheapest Time of Year
Some parts of the calendar are better for bargains. A trip to Mexico or the Caribbean between June 1 and November 30 can save hundreds of dollars. Those months fall within hurricane season, so big savings are common for travelers willing to go anyway.
Booking during hurricane season calls for 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 look for low fares. Children are usually in school then, so many families can't travel. As a result, ships tend to have more open cabins and lower prices.
Check Cruise Line Websites Directly
Visiting each cruise line's site takes a little time, but it can uncover some of the best-discounted fares and bonus offers. Some of the cheapest deals include:
- Norwegian Cruise Line: Up to 70% off select itineraries and airfare. The offer includes an open bar, complimentary specialty dining, free wifi, and a generous $50 excursion credit for each tour.
- Oceania Cruises: Two-for-one cruise fares on select sailings. Free roundtrip airfare and complimentary transfers are also available, along with up to $800 to spend on amenities such as wifi, excursions, beverage packages, and shipboard credits.
- Virgin Voyages: Up to 40% off adults-only summer cruises. Every sailor also gets 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 Cruise Loyalty Program
Frequent cruisers should consider signing up for a loyalty program. These programs reward travelers with exclusive perks, discounts, and reduced fares. Popular options include:
- VIFP Club with Carnival Cruise Line: Discounts of up to 35% off fares, $50 in onboard credits, and access to the latest deals and exclusive bonuses.
- Explorer Society with Viking Cruises: Travel credits toward future voyages, entry to members-only cocktail parties onboard, and limited-time offers.
- Captain's Circle with Princess Cruises: A program that gives back more 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's no reason to pay more than necessary. Start searching online today and save hundreds of dollars on the trip.