How to Actually Get a Cruise Deal: When to Book and What to Avoid
Summary
The article says cruise shoppers should compare the total cost of a trip rather than rely on advertised discounts, since promotions and bundled perks vary in value by traveler. Booking early can help secure a preferred ship, date or cabin, while flexible travelers may find lower fares by comparing sailings or tracking prices closer to departure.Key Facts
- Cruise lines offer promotions such as discounted fares, free additional passengers, onboard credit, Wi-Fi and beverage packages.
- A large advertised discount may be based on a standard rate higher than the fare passengers commonly pay.
- The value of perks such as Wi-Fi and drinks depends on whether a traveler would otherwise buy them.
- Booking early can help travelers secure a specific date, ship or cabin type.
- Comparing fares for nearby weeks can reveal price differences between sailings.
- Travelers with flexible plans may find discounted fares closer to departure; the article suggests tracking itineraries from about 90 days out.
- Cruise lines typically run a promotion period known as wave season from January through March.
- Examples of cruise promotions include Carnival's reduced deposits, Royal Caribbean's onboard credit and Norwegian's bundled extras.
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