How to Find the Best Cruise Deals

Finding a cruise deal is often a combination of timing, planning, and just good luck. What constitutes a deal is often a matter of perception. Sometimes it's just getting a free cabin upgrade to a higher deck on the ship or moving you to an ocean view or balcony cabin because you have booked a cabin category guarantee.

 

Cruises are much like any other product—you get what you pay for! Much like hotels, cruise ships range from basic accommodations and school lunchroom-style food to ultra-luxury pampering and gourmet cuisine. Cruises can cost anywhere from less than $100 per day per person to over $1000 per day per person, depending on the amenities, the size of the ship, and space. So, a cruise deal on an ultra-luxury ship might be $500 per day, a 50 percent discount, but still too steep for many travelers' budgets.

 

If you have never cruised before, do research on cruises and become knowledgeable before planning your cruise. Then, find a travel agent who specializes in cruise travel. Once you have selected a destination and a cruise travel budget, many cruise travel agents (either online agents or agents in your hometown) can help you find a cruise deal that fits your needs and desires. 

 

Let's look at some ways to get a cruise deal.

Book a Cruise Early—Several Months in Advance

Photo Courtesy of Norwegian Cruise Line

 

Cruise lines like to sell their "berths" (cabins) as far in advance as possible. If you plan and book your cruise more than six months in advance, you will often get the best deal. Some cruise lines also offer "low price guarantees," so if the fare drops after you book, you will get the lowest price. If you book far in advance, continue to monitor the fares, and report any price changes to your travel agent, who should be able to either get you a refund or a cabin upgrade.

 

Booking your cruise far in advance may also help you to use frequent flyer miles for your airfare to the cruise embarkation port.