Finding the Best Deals on a Cruise Vacation

The best cruise deals are found by either booking early or waiting for last minute deals when cruise lines are trying to fill all their cabins. Like any other business, cruise lines need to look after their bottom line. In the cruise business, that means filling 100 percent of the cabins on each and every cruise sailing. The strategy for most cruise lines seems to be offering discounted cruise prices immediately after the cruise itinerary is released. Then, as a predetermined number of cabins become filled, the prices start to rise accordingly. As the sailing date approaches, if all the cabins are not sold, the cabin prices will fall, depending on the number of cabins available, as the cruise lines try to meet their goals of filling all the cabins.

Savvy cruisers can cash in on these "cruise sales" by keeping a close eye out for the early or last minute price reductions. Depending on personal preferences, there are a couple of different approaches to getting the best possible deal on your next cruise.

Book Your Cruise Early

If you like to select the type of cabin (suite, balcony, outside, or inside), which deck, ship position (aft or forward), you will want to book your cruise early. Start looking for your cruise selection at least 12 months prior to the desired cruise date. The closer the booking date is to the release date of the cruise itinerary, the better chances you'll get a cabin that will fit your liking. Most cruise lines also offer some of the best prices during early booking.

Last Minute Cruise Deals

If you are more of a risk taker and aren't picky about the type of cabin you stay in on your cruise, and your comfortable with doing things on the spur of the moment, waiting for the last minute cruise deals can be a good option. Keep in mind the possibility that the cruise you have selected may sell out, leaving you up in the air looking for another cruise. But more often then not, there will be open cabins within 30 days of the sailing date, and that is when the cruise lines are franticly trying to get 100 percent cabin occupancy and prices start dropping.

Already Booked - Save More Money!



Even after you get that great deal on your cruise booking, it is worth continually monitoring the prices for your selected cruise up until the sailing date. If the price does drop below what you already paid, not all but many cruise lines will honor the lower price or give you an upgrade to a better cabin. Keep an eye open for price reductions, cabin upgrades, onboard credit, specialty restaurant cover charges, and inclusive airfare offers for your cruise. Don't hesitate to call the cruise line and ask for the same deal. If you booked with an travel agent, call the travel agent and ask them to call the cruise line and secure the better deal.

 

 

More Articles on Saving Money