How to find the best cruise ship deal - Top Tips 2024

A dream cruise is becoming a reality. But before you can happily board the ship, there are several decisions to be made. Firstly, where will you go? This is a bit of a dilemma, as there are so many beautiful places to visit. And the key question. Which cruise should you choose? Again, there are so many choices. And it's hard to know where to start. We suggest you start with this article. Based on the experiences of both travellers and cruise lines, we have compiled the following tips. We try to answer this important question. How do you choose the best cruise for you?

Understanding Cruise Pricing Dynamics

When planning a cruise, it's helpful to understand how prices work. Cruise prices are very dynamic. Different seasons, different destinations visited, even the type of ship makes a difference. Familiarising yourself with the dynamics of cruise prices will help you save money. Here are a few tips:

Don't book too early or too late

Timing is key to getting the best price. Not the timing of the cruise, but also the timing of the booking. Many people wonder whether it's better to book early or wait for better deals. In general, booking is a bit of a gamble. If you book too early, you may miss out on opportunities that come up later. But if you wait too long, the best rooms may be gone or prices may go up. If you think the current offer suits you, it's worth booking. But if you're hoping for a better deal, wait a little. In moderation, of course. Usually a few months before a cruise, companies need to fill the ship. This is when good value cruises appear.

^{Look out for promotions and offers}

Top tips:

• Start looking early to get an idea of prices.
• Keep an eye out for promotions and sales as your cruise date approaches.
• Sometimes booking 6-8 months in advance can secure a great deal.

Watch price changes

As mentioned above, cruise prices are very unstable. They can go up and down like waves. And you want to get the best deals. So should you sit at your computer day and night checking for price changes?  We have a better solution. Cruises are becoming popular, so many tools have been created to make your search easier. To get the best deals you can use the tools on sites like cruisewatch.com.

^{Set up price alerts and check for alerts}

The way they work is simple:

1. You go to the site and type in the type of cruise you're interested in.
2. Lots of options will come up, with notifications of price changes.
3. If the price drops, you get an email and can confirm for yourself if it suits you. The service is free, so even if it doesn't suit you, you won't lose anything.

Consider peak and low seasons

The cruising world has peak and off-peak seasons. Peak season is usually the busiest and most expensive. It is also often when the weather is best or when the cities you visit are on public holidays. The period just before and just after the high season can be a good time to cruise. The weather is still nice, but there are fewer people and prices are lower. Off-peak periods can be even cheaper, although the weather may be less predictable. But if you're looking for a quiet, peaceful trip, this could be the perfect time. Above all, match your cruise time to your destination. Not every cruise line's peak season is in the summer. 

^{Take into account high and low season}

Top tips:

• The summer season offers a great balance of good weather and lower prices.
• Off-peak times are the cheapest, but make sure you don't mind the weather and fewer attractions.
• Each destination has its own best time, so a little research can go a long way.

Take advantage of special offers and promotions

Cruise lines have many special offers and promotions. The main problem is finding them and tailoring them to your needs. Here are a few of our tips:

Take advantage of wave season deals

Wave Season is like the holiday season for cruises. It runs from January to March every year. During this time, cruise lines offer some of their best deals and promotions. The idea is to encourage travellers to book more cruises. Why do they do this? Well, this is the time when people start planning their holidays. Cruise lines want to attract their interest.

^{Check out the Wave Season special offers}

Top tips:

• Look out for discounts on cruise fares, cabin upgrades and even airline tickets to port.
• Find perks such as shipboard credit to spend on the ship or meal packages at restaurants.
• This is the perfect time to book a cruise if you are flexible with travel dates and destinations.

Look for repositioning cruises

Repositioning cruises occur when a cruise ship moves from one region to another. For example from the Caribbean to Europe. These cruises can offer unique itineraries that you can't get on regular itineraries. And the best part? Their prices are often much lower than standard cruises. This is because they are not round trips and may include more days at sea. Because they are not typical itineraries, you can find a mix of destinations.

^{A repositioning cruise can cost much less than a regular cruise.}

Benefits of repositioning cruises:

• A chance to visit unusual ports that aren't as crowded.
• You'll enjoy longer cruises for less money.
• Perfect for those who love days at sea.
• Unique itineraries at much lower prices.

Subscribe to newsletters for exclusive offers

There are many websites offering cruise deals. We're sure you've already come across them. One of the great things about these sites is their email offers. Sites like Cruise.com receive extra offers from cruise lines to attract cruise travelers. By signing up for newsletters, you can have offers and promotions sent to you. These offers are often available only to subscribers. They may include discounts, shipboard credits or last-minute offers. Often you won't find them anywhere else.

Benefits of subscribing to newsletters:

• You'll be the first to know about new offers and promotions.
• Some newsletters may even include tips on how to choose a cruise.
• Remember, you can always unsubscribe if you feel you are receiving too many emails.

Booking strategies

Booking the right cruise at the right price is a challenge. Even if we have defined needs, the choices are vast. It's easy to get lost and discouraged. Here are some strategies to help you find the best deals:

Use a travel agent

Travel agents are very helpful. They take the hassle out of finding the right cruise for you. They often have access to special prices and packages that can't be found online. They have the experience and knowledge to help you find the perfect cruise. It doesn't matter if you already have an itinerary in mind or if you're getting started. Travel agents also work with the cruise lines. Their relationships mean they can offer you exclusive deals.

^{Travel agent can help you get started}

Benefits of travel agencies:

• Have access to exclusive offers not available online.
• Save time by letting agents handle all the details of your booking.
• They can help you navigate the rules and regulations.
• If there are any problems during the booking or cruise, the agent will help resolve them.

Book guaranteed cabins

^{Consider booking a guaranteed cabin}

Choosing a guaranteed cabin can feel like a bit of a gamble, but it can also save you money. Booking a guaranteed cabin is all about choosing the type of cabin you want. These are usually interior, ocean view or balcony. You don't choose a specific cabin. The cruise line will assign you a cabin in your chosen category before you sail. Remember, with a guaranteed cabin, you could end up in any cabin in your chosen category. If you have a preference for a particular cabin location on the ship, consider whether this is a good option. There's also a chance you could be moved to a better cabin if the cruise line needs to balance the ship's occupancy.

Consider last minute bookings carefully

Last minute deals can be tempting, as they often offer lower prices. But, this comes with a certain amount of uncertainty. Especially if you have a specific cruise or itinerary in mind. While they may offer savings, they are risky for certain routes or dates. Last minute bookings can be ideal for spontaneous travellers. So if you are open to exploring any destination maybe this is the solution.

Pro tip: These deals work best if you live near a cruise port and don't have to worry about a last-minute flight.

^{Consider last minute bookings carefully}

Last minute bookings:

• Limited choice of cabins and meal times.
• For flexible travellers.
• The most popular cruises and times may not be available.

Choosing the right cruise line and ship

Besides our needs when choosing a cruise, there is often the choice of ship or cruise line. Again the problem arises. Where to start? Few people are familiar with the cruise business. If this is not your first cruise, you have some experience. But for first-time cruisers, it's black magic. So here's how to choose the right cruise line and ship for your next adventure.

Research new and older ships

When it comes to choosing between new and older ships, both have their advantages. New ships often come with extensive entertainment options and the latest amenities. They may offer special introductory offers to attract travellers. These promotions may include discounts, on-board credits or free upgrades.

But some people prefer older ships. And they have their reasons. Older ships may not have all the bells and whistles, but they often have charm and loyal fans. There is often an intimate atmosphere on older ships. The crew tends to be steady and have worked together for many years, so are more experienced. Older ships may also have lower base prices. They are often a more budget-friendly option. 

^{View old and new cruises}

Advantages of new ships:

• Modern amenities
• Introductory offers

Advantages of older ships:

• Intimate, traditional cruising experience
• Lower costs

Explore cruise line loyalty programmes

Like airlines and hotels, cruise lines reward their loyal customers. They run loyalty programmes that add up to significant savings and benefits. Especially if you take several cruises. The more cruises you take with the same line, the more points you can earn. Points can be used for discounts on future cruises, cabin upgrades, free internet access and even free drinks or dinners.

But isn't it worth signing up on your first cruise? Well, it depends on the line. But it's worth noting that it's usually free to register and you'll get the benefits right from the start. Some lines encourage new customers in this way. So it doesn't hurt to look around for interesting loyalty programme offers.

^{You could benefit from joining a cruise loyalty programme}

How loyalty programmes work:

1. You collect points by travelling on the chosen line.
2. Benefits increase as you earn more points on your flights.
3. Redeem points for benefits on future flights.
4. Even if you're new to cruising, you can enjoy attractive offers.

Target specific cruise lines for special offers

Different cruise lines cater to different types of travellers. Destinations, seasons, but also age and leisure preferences play a role. For example, some lines may offer discounts for seniors, families or solo travellers. Others may have special low season fares or unique routes.

^{Select a specific cruise line}

How to find the best deals:

• Identify cruise lines that cater to your age group, interests or travel style.
• Look for promotions related to the destinations you want to explore.
• Consider off-season or repositioning cruises for unique deals.

The importance of flexibility

If you're interested in getting the best deals, you need to be flexible. There is a lot of choice out there, but making a few adjustments to our cruise can help us save money. It's a well-known fact that we can't always afford to be so flexible. Sometimes a strict plan is the best way to go. But even the smallest change to a cruise can help us a lot. Whether it's a choice of cabin or transport to the port of departure. Here's how flexibility can lead to significant savings.

Be open to different departure ports

Choosing alternative departure ports rather than the most direct can sometimes save you a lot of money. For example, if you are planning a cruise in the Caribbean, consider ports other than the one closest to you. Sometimes the cost of flying to a farther port can be cheaper than cruising from a closer port.

^{Consider alternative departure ports rather than the most direct} 

Top tips:

• Research all possible departure ports for your chosen itinerary.
• Compare the total cost of a cruise from different ports, including the cost of airfare.
• Remember that some less popular departure ports may offer itineraries at better prices.

Flexible dates

Cruising during the off-peak season often means lower prices and less crowding. Cruise lines often introduce extra comforts for these travellers. This is due to the overcrowding on peak cruises. During periods such as school holidays or the summer season, there are a lot of people eager to get on board. Companies try to persuade some travellers to relax in the off-season. It's worth checking for such offers. Also, the ship and destinations may be less crowded and offer a more relaxing experience.

^{Try to be more flexible, particularly with your dates}

Benefits of flexible cruise dates:

• Look at cruise prices in different months to find cheaper cruise dates.
• Being open to cruising on different dates can help you find the best deals.
• Quieter ships and destinations with cost savings.
• Interesting offers from cruise lines.

Consider any type of cabin

We have mentioned this before. But it is such a useful way to save money that we are not afraid to mention it again. A small sacrifice, but a big saving. Flexibility in cabin type is one of the most common ways to get a better price on a cruise. Interior cabins without windows are usually the cheapest. If you don't plan to spend much time in the cabin, this can be a good option. Cabins with sea views or balconies cost more. It's worth noting that special offers can sometimes reduce the difference between the prices of these cabins. That's when it may be worth paying a little more for more comfort.

^{Check the different cabins offered on your cruise}

Top tips:

• Compare prices for different cabin types.
• Decide which cabin features are important to you and which you can do without.
• Look out for special offers that may allow you to book a higher class cabin for less.

Tips for using flexibility

Flexibility in choosing a cruise seems to make the task easier. But sometimes we feel that anything 'flexible' equals 'unplanned'. And not everyone is comfortable with that. It doesn't have to be this way. We've put together some tips to help you find some flexibility. 

1. Keep an open mind - the more flexible you are, the more ways you can save money.
2. Check out last-minute deals - if you are able to make quick decisions, last-minute deals can offer significant savings.
3. Use a travel agent - they can help you find the best deals based on your flexibility.
4. Sign up for alerts - many websites allow you to set up price alerts for cruises.
5. Research - take the time to check out different options. Focus on the compromises you are willing to make to get a better price.

More savings tactics

Cruising is often seen as a huge expense. But it doesn't have to be. With the right strategies, you can enjoy your cruise and save money at the same time. Here are some more tactics to help you find extra savings.

^{Saving money doesn't mean you'll enjoy your cruise less}

Book your own flights

When planning a cruise, you may be tempted to book a package that includes flights. But, it's worth comparing these deals with the cost of booking flights separately. Airlines often have sales or special offers that are not included in cruise packages. Also consider arriving early and staying in a hotel. The price can be similar and sometimes lower. And an extra day will allow for a stress-free boarding.

^{Consider booking your own transport to the port of departure}

Top tips:

• Start by checking flight prices on airline and comparison websites.
• Remember to factor in travel time and any extra costs, such as baggage fees.
• Sometimes flying the day before and booking a hotel near the port can be cheaper and less stressful.

Look for group discounts

Travelling with friends or family can make a cruise not only more fun, but also more affordable. Many cruise lines offer discounts for group bookings. This can mean lower prices for everyone. In some cases, if the group is large enough, one person can even cruise for free. You don't have to look far to find friends for a cruise. Check out social media. Often, travellers will get together as a group to save money. Even though they are taking the cruise separately. Keep in mind that working together as a group usually takes more time than working alone. If you are interested in this option, be sure to allow plenty of time.

^{Find out about discounts for groups}

Advantages of group travel:

• The definition of "group" can vary, so check with your cruise line or travel agent.
• Group discounts often come with additional benefits.
• Getting a group together requires coordination, so start planning well in advance.

Check discounts for residents, senior citizens and military personnel

^{Many cruises offer special discounts for certain groups}

Cruise lines often offer special discounts for certain groups. These include residents of certain states or countries, senior citizens and military personnel. These discounts can make a big difference to the price of a cruise, so it's always a good idea to ask. Even if you don't think you qualify. Keep these few tips in mind:

1. Look for sections dedicated to special offers and discounts on cruise websites.
2. If you book through a travel agent, make sure they know how to look for these discounts.
3. Always have the correct ID or proof of eligibility, as you will need to show it to receive the discount.

How to maximise savings

By using these money-saving tactics, you can reduce the cost of your next cruise. Whether you book your own flights, travel in a group or take advantage of special discounts. We've rounded up some of our top tips for saving money when choosing a cruise:

1. Start planning early - more time to plan means more time to find deals.
2. Be flexible - flexibility in dates and destinations gives you more opportunities to save.
3. Subscribe to newsletters - cruise lines and travel agents often send special offers to subscribers.
4. Use rewards points - if you have rewards points from credit cards or loyalty programmes, see if you can use them on a cruise or flights.
5. Follow cruise lines on social media - sometimes exclusive deals are offered through social media channels.

Improve your cruise experience and save money

When you go on a cruise, you need to find the perfect balance between cost and comfort. Saving money is important, but cruising is all about relaxation and fun. And sometimes a deal that doesn't cost a lot more can be good value. Here are some ways to enhance your cruise experience without breaking the bank.

^{Balance cost and comfort}

Choose a package deal

Many cruise lines offer packages that combine several amenities for one price. These packages can include drinks or Wi-Fi which are usually extra expenses on a cruise. By choosing a package, you can often enjoy these services at a lower cost than if you paid for them separately. 

^{Package deals can be a great way to save money}

Some of the packages on offer:

• Drinks package - unlimited drinks can add up quickly. If you often enjoy a coffee or a relaxing drink on board, a beverage pack may be for you.
• Wi-Fi package - staying connected at sea can be expensive. A Wi-Fi package can provide unlimited Internet access for a fraction of the daily rate.
• Tipping package - covering the crew's tips in advance can make budgeting easier. It will reduce the burden of unexpected charges at the end of the cruise.

Putting value before price

Sometimes the cheapest option is not the best value. A higher price for a cruise may include valuable perks or a better cabin location. Here are some examples to look out for:

• Cabin location - paying a little more for a cabin in a convenient location on the ship can make your stay more enjoyable. Of course, it also depends on your preferences. If the location of the cabin does not matter to you, you can refuse to pay the extra cost. But you might be planning to spend a lot of time with entertainment on board. Find out what it costs to secure a cabin location.
• Onboard credits - some itineraries offer onboard credits. These can be used for excursions, spa treatments or purchases in the gift shop.
• Special access - focus on priority access. More expensive packages may include reserved seats at shows or exclusive meals.

^{Lower price does not always mean better value}

Using your credit card points and rewards

^{Check the points and rewards on your credit card}

If you have a credit card that offers travel rewards, check out how you can use your points. Sometimes the offers include booking a cruise or paying for onboard expenses. This can be a great way to boost your holiday budget. Some possible point rewards:

• Booking a cruise - some credit cards allow you to book cruises through travel portals.
• Onboard expenses - you can often use your credit card rewards to pay for onboard expenses. Sometimes having a particular card can entitle you to discounts on board. Check your credit card offers. 

Be informed and prepared

^{Be well informed}

Going on a cruise is more than packing your bags. Being informed and prepared in advance can help you get the best deals. It will also make you feel more prepared for the cruise and any expenses you may incur. Here's how to stay on top of the latest cruise deals and tips for your next trip.

Set up price alerts on sites like cruisewatch.com

^{Set up price alerts on sites}

We mentioned price alerts when choosing the best price for a cruise. But it doesn't hurt to remind you of the option. We know from experience how many travellers have used price alerts to find the best deals. Alerts also let you know when a cruise price reduction is available in the future. This can help you plan future cruises. 

Follow cruise deals sites on social media

Social media is not just about photos and updates from friends and family. As we share tidbits and information about various topics, others do so about cruising. And it's not only about posts. People often share their experiences in the comments section. Pay attention to them 

^{Social media is the key to getting to know other travellers' experiences} 

Top tips:

• Accounts like @cruisedeals on Twitter regularly post information about special offers, last minute deals and exclusive promotions.
• Following these accounts ensures that you'll be among the first to know about new deals. This can be crucial for snagging limited-time offers.
• Engaging on these platforms can provide valuable tips and insights from other travellers. Don't forget to check out the comments and discussions. 

Visit cruise comparison and deal sites regularly

Cruise comparison and deals websites are your best friend when planning a trip. They collate offers from different cruise lines, making it easy to find the best price. You can also set up price alerts to keep you informed of good deals. But it's a good idea to visit the site yourself from time to time and browse around. 

^{Try to visit cruise comparison and deal sites as regularly as possible}

The benefits of visiting cruise deal sites:

Sites such as Cruise Critic and Vacations To Go are known for their comprehensive cruise deals, reviews and tips.
These sites often have exclusive deals negotiated with cruise lines. This can lead to better prices or more benefits.
Checking these sites can help you compare the price and value of different cruises.

Top tips for staying informed

1. Join mailing lists
   As well as setting up price alerts, join mailing lists for your favourite cruise lines. This can give you access to exclusive offers.
2. Join online forums
   Online communities of cruise enthusiasts share deals, tips and experiences. Browse them, as first-hand experience is invaluable when planning a trip.
3. Review past deals
   Checking offers from previous years can give you an idea of when the best prices might be available.
4. Be ready to book
   The best deals can disappear quickly. Having the details ready can make the booking process smoother and faster.
5. Ask for deals
   Don't be afraid to contact cruise lines to ask about unadvertised promotions or discounts.

We hope this comprehensive article will help you choose your cruise. Above all, keep your needs and abilities in mind. A cruise is supposed to be a good experience that allows you to relax and have fun at the same time. Have a great cruise and good luck!