DISCOVER THE WORLD

easy travel & cruise

Cruise Holiday Hot Picks by easyCruise

Welcome to easyCruise

As a team of cruise lovers and experts in the travel and tourism industry, we know what you’re looking for when it comes to finding the ideal cruises. From exploring exotic faraway lands, to seeing the stunning sights of European ports, and relaxing on board luxury cruise ships, our hot picks include a cruise for all, whether this is your first cruise or your 20th!

We look forward to welcoming you aboard one of our ships soon and discover the world the easyCruise way.

easy travel & cruise

easyCruise Lifestyle

Tailor your voyage: from solo to ultra-luxury, find the perfect cruise style to match your lifestyle. Whether you’re seeking an adult-only retreat, family adventures, cultural explorations, or a romantic getaway, our diverse cruise styles cater to every preference.

Worldwide Cruising Destinations

There’s nothing quite like ticking a country, city, or famous site off your bucket list. At  easyCruise we cover just about every possible cruise destination, so you can find the cruise you have been dreaming of. Fancy getting up close and personal with wildlife down under ? Or dreaming about white beaches in the Caribbean? From one corner of the globe to the other, our cruise deals include destinations across the oceans and seas.

See the famous historical sites and ancient ruins of old European towns, swim, snorkel, or scuba dive and see exotic marine life in the crystal-clear waters of the Andaman Sea, or adventure into northern territories, explore Icelandic waterfalls and catch a glimpse of the coveted northern lights.

easy travel & cruise

easyCruise Featured Cruise Lines

easy travel & cruise

easyCruise destinations

With the latest cruise offers in partnership with Supercruises, easyCruise  presents over 18,000 cruises to choose from the world’s leading cruise lines, including P&O Cruises, Royal Caribbean International, Seabourn, MSC Cruises, Norwegian Cruise Line, and many more. At easyCruise we are your one stop all-online destination for booking your dream cruise holiday. Whether you are seeking a relaxing 7 night break away from work, or a longer 21-night cruising adventure, our hottest picks and exclusive offers provide cruise options for everyone at the very best value. Including romantic couple breaks, family cruise holidays, luxury and solo cruises. Book your perfect cruise online, all in one place, in just a few clicks!

  • Atlantic Islands
  • Australia & New Zealand
  • East Coast US
  • Indian Ocean
  • Mediterranean
  • Middle East
  • Northern Europe
  • Panama Canal
  • South America
  • Transatlantic
  • West Coast US
  • Western Europe

Why book with us

easy travel & cruise

Book All-Online

Get 24/7 access to live pricing, availability, and the latest cruise line deals wherever you are and from any device, and book your dream cruise in a just few clicks with no hidden fees.

easy travel & cruise

Exclusive Offers

Members of the easyCruise community will receive exclusive offers, discounts, and the hottest cruise line deals.

easy travel & cruise

Fully ABTA Protected

All bookings made through our affiliate Supercruises.com are fully ABTA protected

So what are you waiting for?

Book your next cruise via easyCruise and customise the experience to your personal preference. Drop your anchors and book today.

  • Vacation Rentals
  • Restaurants
  • Things to do
  • Things to Do
  • Travel Stories
  • Rental Cars
  • Add a Place
  • Travel Forum
  • Travelers' Choice
  • Help Center

Find the best cruise for you

Featured cruise deals, cruising guide, why take a cruise vacation.

If you have a place on your bucket list, chances are, a cruise will get you there. Cruises cover the world, taking millions of passengers each year to destinations like the Caribbean, the Bahamas, Alaska, Europe, the Mediterranean and even Antarctica. Cruising offers a tremendous value, with trips that include your lodging, meals and entertainment, all rolled into one. Some cruise lines even offer fully inclusive vacations, which cover drinks and tours ashore. Cruising means seeing the world while unpacking only once.

Cruises also provide a wonderful option for families, with many ships offering things like waterslides, mini-golf courses and fun clubs for kids and teens -- all for free. Planning is easy: Pick your destination and the right ship for you. The cruise line makes it simple, offering packages to help you save on extras like alcohol, shore tours or even airfare.

Travelers say they choose to cruise because cruising often costs less per night when compared with staying at a hotel, where they'll have to book -- and pay for -- all their extras.

What are Tips for Finding Cheap Cruises?

If you're a flexible traveler, you'll have a better chance of finding cheap cruises. Take a cruise that doesn't sail over the summer or holidays, when prices are highest. Book an inside cabin, or take your chances with a "guarantee cabin," ideal for passengers who aren't picky about their cabins but really want the lowest price available. Book cabins on lower decks, which often come with lower prices than those rooms on higher floors.

Cruise lines such as MSC Cruises, Carnival Cruise Line, Norwegian Cruise Line and Royal Caribbean International offer rates that might drop as low as $75 per person per night -- and sometimes lower. Here's a tip: Many times, the smaller ships from these lines offer the smallest prices.

If you want a real bargain, consider a transatlantic or repositioning cruise. These cruises are one-way or open-jaw trips, that start in one port and finish at another. You can score a deal sailing from Florida to Europe, for example, or even from New York to Florida. Just be aware, you'll probably have to pay a bit more for airfare to return.

What are Tips to Finding Last-Minute Cruise Deals?

Being flexible will get you the best last-minute cruise deals. If you live near a cruise port and can drive, you're probably going to be able to jump on those deals that might pop up a week or two before the ship is set to sail.

If you don't have flexibility with dates and locations, be willing to bend on destination. This will allow you to find a wider range of last-minute deals traveling to locations in their off-season or shoulder season.

Do plenty of research and know what your ideal cruise costs on average. When you see it drop, pounce! Many cruise lines update pricing several times every day, so be prepared.

Best cruises in 2020

Part of the appeal of cruising is that there's truly something for everyone. Ships come in an array of sizes, some loaded with so many activities, you couldn't get to them all in a week.

Families will find plenty of options and activities onboard big ships, which have transformed cruising, making the vessels as exciting as the destinations to which they sail. The Caribbean is a great option for families, offering lots of sunshine, great beaches and culture. Alaska, famous for its incredible vistas and abundant wildlife, also is a solid family cruise option. Consider cruise lines such as Carnival, Princess, Royal Caribbean, Norwegian, Disney, Celebrity, MSC and Holland America for a family cruise.

River cruising has been heating up over the past few years, with itineraries that send passengers down the Danube or Rhine rivers in Europe or to even more exotic locations, like the Mekong River in Cambodia or Vietnam or the Volga River in Russia. Popular river cruises embark in cities like Amsterdam, Budapest and Lisbon. Popular river cruise lines include Viking, AmaWaterways, Avalon, Scenic, Emerald Waterways, Tauck, Uniworld and Crystal.

If you're a thrill-seeker, consider an expedition cruise. These cruises, often onboard small ships, offer an intimate experience that brings passengers right up next to glaciers, whales, penguins and iguanas. Ships visit tiny spots all over the world, including Antarctica, Alaska, Australia and Greenland. Passengers will spend their time kayaking, hiking, biking and exploring with expert guides and knowledgeable naturalists. Expedition travelers love cruise lines such as Lindblad Expeditions, UnCruise Adventures, Silversea, Hurtigruten, Ponant and Quark Expeditions.

Luxury cruises offer all-inclusive experiences onboard smaller ships with perks like butlers, high-end amenities and personalized, intuitive service. Ships often feature luxury touches like marble and crystal decor, intimate spaces and beautiful spas. Because luxury ships tend to be smaller, they can often reach off-the-beaten-path destinations bigger ships can't -- ports like St. Tropez or Guadeloupe. If you're looking for a luxury cruise, consider Crystal, Seabourn, Regent Seven Seas, Oceania, Azamara, Viking Oceans and Silversea.

Cruises by style

  • Luxury Cruises
  • Cruise Deals
  • Family Cruises
  • Last Minute Cruises
  • River Cruises

Find other cruise vacations in popular destinations

  • Cozumel Cruises
  • Seattle Cruises
  • San Francisco Cruises
  • Los Angeles Cruises
  • Fort Lauderdale Cruises
  • Baltimore Cruises
  • Boston Cruises
  • Aruba Cruises
  • New Orleans Cruises
  • New York City Cruises
  • Galveston Cruises
  • Ensenada Cruises
  • Miami Cruises
  • Cruises from Florida
  • Cruises from Seattle
  • Cruises from San Francisco
  • Cruises from Los Angeles
  • Cruises from Fort Lauderdale
  • Cruises from Tampa
  • Cruises from Baltimore
  • Cruises from Boston
  • Cruises from New Orleans
  • Cruises from New York City
  • Cruises from San Diego
  • Cruises from Galveston
  • Cruises from Miami
  • Princess Cruises
  • Holland America Line
  • Carnival Cruise Line
  • Disney Cruise Line
  • Norwegian Cruise Line
  • Celebrity Cruises
  • Royal Caribbean International
  • MSC Cruises
  • Viking Ocean Cruises
  • Oceania Cruises

Find cruise vacation on popular cruise ships View all

  • Adventure of the Seas
  • Allure of the Seas
  • Anthem of the Seas
  • Enchantment of the Seas
  • Freedom of the Seas
  • Harmony of the Seas
  • Liberty of the Seas
  • Mariner of the Seas
  • Oasis of the Seas
  • Carnival Breeze
  • Carnival Conquest
  • Carnival Dream
  • Carnival Elation
  • Carnival Glory
  • Carnival Liberty
  • Carnival Magic
  • Carnival Sunshine
  • Carnival Valor
  • Carnival Vista
  • Regal Princess
  • Royal Princess
  • Ruby Princess
  • Celebrity Equinox
  • Disney Dream
  • MSC Seaside
  • Norwegian Bliss
  • Norwegian Breakaway
  • Norwegian Escape
  • Norwegian Getaway

Expedia Rewards is now One Key™

Find discount cruise deals.

For expert cruise advice, call 1-866-403-9848.

easy travel & cruise

Find your voyage

easy travel & cruise

Simple staycations

Rediscover your own city with a local escape—a great way to get away while staying close to home.

Disney Cruise Line Deals

Disney Cruise Line Deals

Cruise Tips & Cruise Packing Guide

Cruise Tips & Cruise Packing Guide

Popular cruise destinations.

Bahamas Cruises

Departure Ports with Great Cruises Leaving from

Cruise From Galveston

San Francisco

Most popular cruise lines.

Royal Caribbean International

  • Royal Caribbean International

Disney Cruise Line

Disney Cruise Line

Carnival Cruise Lines

  • Carnival Cruise Lines

MSC Cruises

  • MSC Cruises

Norwegian Cruise Line

  • Norwegian Cruise Line

Princess Cruises

  • Princess Cruises

Find the best cruise vacation for you

How can i find a cheap cruise.

Cheap cruise deals are fairly easy to find in most cases, and you can begin by considering what kind of features and itinerary you want. The more simplistic the experience is, the cheaper it is in general. On Expedia.com, you can filter for specific features and sort your results by price. By mixing and matching certain features, unforgettable experiences may be available with discount cruises. For example, booking a cruise with stunning restaurants and live performances while opting for an inside cabin without an ocean view window or balcony could be ideal for a traveler who doesn't plan on spending much time in their cabin anyways

What is the cheapest month to take a cruise?

The cheapest month to take a cruise varies based on your destination and the cruise line company that runs the ship. A Caribbean cruise , for example, is generally cheapest in the late summer and early fall since it's the local hurricane season.

Can I cancel my cruise booking?

Yes, you can cancel, but there may be fees for canceling depending on how far in advance you cancel and what kind of booking you have. You can check the specific cruise lines’ cancellation policies in your itinerary on Expedia.com.

Are river cruises worth the money?

River cruises are quite relaxing, with much more varied scenery than you'd experience on an ocean cruise. These ships often also feature several stops along the river, so passengers can enjoy a greater variety of destinations to explore. Viking river cruises are especially adept at providing this unforgettable experience.

What cruises are best for families?

The best family cruises in 2024 / 2025 tend to be Disney cruises with plenty of offerings for kids and adults alike, though MSC cruises are known for their iconic Children Cruise Free promotion. Disney cruises, specifically, are essentially a Disney theme park on a boat with live shows, rides, and attractions with your kids' favorite characters.

How much does a cruise ship cost?

Cruise prices can vary quite a bit, with cheap cruises and especially luxurious all-inclusive cruises available. Budget lines can offer cruise tickets as low as $50 per night in some cases, while the more high-end experiences can reach up to $1,000 per night and more.

What are some of the best cruise lines?

Several different cruise lines have a lot to offer, such as Viking cruises , which are known for traversing oceans and rivers with a style that blends outdoor and indoor splendor. Celebrity cruise line is more upscale with luxurious features like WiFi, included beverages, champagne, and suites with panoramic views. Other top cruise lines include Royal Caribbean International , Carnival Cruise , Disney Cruise , and Norwegian Cruise .

How far in advance do you need to book a cruise?

It's generally best to book a cruise about 6 to 12 months before your cruise departure. That's the safest way to balance availability and affordability. Technically, you can book earlier or later than that, with some last-minute cruise deals occasionally available up to a weekbefore cruise departure.

Are cruise trips affordable?

They can be, and it's especially simple to search for more affordable cruises with Expedia.com. Not only can you filter by cruise length, cruise line, and cabin experience, but you may also sort your results by price to put the more affordable options first on your search results page.

What is it like to go on a cruise?

A cruise is generally designed to offer the most relaxing experience possible. Despite the size of the ship, it's possible to feel the wave. Many passengers report that the movements help them sleep. Additionally, many fun cruises offer live stage performances, several restaurants, and shopping opportunities. When the ship is in international waters, you may even be able to enjoy a bit of tax-free shopping.

Are cruises a good way to travel?

Cruise travel is great if you're looking for some varied fun. Compared to a plane or a train, cruises have their own attractions and can be considered an integral part of cruise vacations. Plus, a cruise can hit several different destinations as well, with plenty of time to enjoy the cruise and scenic locales. It's certainly worth it for a unique experience no other method of travel can match.

Which cruise line is the cheapest?

The actual cheapest cruise available depends on a variety of different factors. Still, Carnival Cruise tends to be very affordable overall, most of the time with great options like the Carnival Sunrise and Carnival Horizon . Royal Caribbean is also another fantastic cruise line offering great deals if you are watching your budget.

How can I get the best cruise deals in 2024 / 2025?

If you're looking for some of the best cruise deals, booking through Expedia.com makes it easy since you can sort your cruise search results by price and have access to special deals. One Key members can earn  OneKeyCash  on all eligible bookings and get instant discounts with Member Prices. Sign up today!

What do I need to know when I book a cruise?

To book a cruise, you'll need to know where you'll be setting off from and where you'll be going, in addition to how many people will be with you and the features of the specific cruise you book. Keep in mind that you'll want to factor in spending money in your budget for the cruise's restaurants and shops in most cases.

Where should I go on a cruise in 2024 / 2025?

Plenty of incredible cruise destinations are accessible such as cruises to the Bahamas and cruises to Mexico . You may also be interested in cruises to Alaska or cruises to Europe for something outside of the Caribbean.

What countries are best to visit by cruise ship?

A lot of countries are accessible via a cruise, but the best include a cruise to Australia . However, a cruise to Australia is quite a long trip at sea and really allows you to take in everything the cruise ship has to offer.

Can I get last-minute cruise deals?

Yes, last-minute cruise deals are often available, and you can find them on Expedia.com by inputting your travel dates in your search and sorting your results by price. The deals will automatically be applied to the price estimates so that the cheapest estimates will show up first on your search results page.

Are cruises all-inclusive?

Cruises aren't always all-inclusive, but they can be. If you're interested in all-inclusive cruises, you can activate a search filter for it to ensure your search results only show cruises that meet your all-inclusive standard.

Is food free on a cruise?

Food is sometimes free on a cruise, but there are often specialty restaurants that aren't included with the general booking that you'll have to pay for separately. Check the details of each cruise before you book in the "What's included" section after clicking the cruise on your search results page.

What cruise lines are adults only?

Several lines offer adults-only cruise experiences, including Viking cruises , Carnival cruises , and Princess cruises . With an adults-only cruise, you can relax in a tranquil and laid-back setting without kids running around and enjoy all the cocktails you want.

What cruise lines are considered to be the most luxurious?

Viking cruises are considered exceptionally luxurious, with smaller ships and larger cabins that make them feel more exclusive, but Celebrity cruises offer luxury cruise lines too. Booking a luxury cruise means you can expect high-end amenities including gourmet restaurants, sizable suites, top-tier performances, massive pools, and much more.

What are the best cruises for couples?

Viking Cruises have much to offer for a more romantic experience. Holland America Line cruises can be quite refined and romantic as well, with an adult-oriented experience that's sophisticated rather than rowdy. Romantic cruises offer exceptional service as well as cozy suites for you and your partner to enjoy that's complemented by delicious food often themed around the cruise destination.

Why should I go on a cruise for my honeymoon?

Going on a cruise is a great way for you and your new spouse to be pampered with luxury while also being able to explore a new destination. Whether you're taking a cruise to Hawaii or a cruise to Bermuda , a particularly romantic experience is almost guaranteed thanks to the sheer number of things to do.

Are there any Christmas cruises?

Yes, quite a few cruise lines operate around Christmas, and you can find them easily by entering travel dates around Christmas into your 2024 cruise search. Some of the most popular Christmas cruises are available with Carnival and Disney.

Do I need a passport to go on a cruise?

Whether or not you need a passport depends on where you're going and the kind of cruise it is. Any US territory like Bermuda and Puerto Rico won't require a passport, of course, but you also don't need one if you're on a closed-loop cruise. This is a cruise that begins and ends at a US cruise terminal, even if there are stops in other countries on the way.

Why should I book a cruise with Expedia.com?

Booking a cruise with Expedia.com makes it easy to find a cruise type that works best for you. You can use the cruise finder and sort by cruise line, type, destination, length, and itinerary. One Key members also earn OneKeyCash on all eligible bookings that can be used to save on future eligible trips.

What happens if a cruise is canceled?

Every cruise has a different cancellation policy, but generally, passengers are entitled to either a full refund or a credit for a future cruise at a later date. Remember that they may automatically change your booking to their rescheduled date, so you may have to contact them if that date doesn't work for your schedule.

*OneKeyCash is not redeemable for cash and can only be used on Expedia,  Hotels.com  and Vrbo.

Other vacations you might like

  • Explore a world of travel with Expedia

Top Cruise Destinations

  • Cruises to Alaska
  • Cruises to Bahamas
  • Cruises to Caribbean
  • Cruises to Europe
  • Cruises to Hawaii
  • Cruises to Mexico

Top US Cruise Departure Ports

  • Cruises from Boston
  • Cruises from Fort Lauderdale
  • Cruises from Galveston
  • Cruises from Honolulu
  • Cruises from Los Angeles
  • Cruises from Miami
  • Cruises from New Orleans
  • Cruises from New York
  • Cruises from Port Canaveral
  • Cruises from San Diego
  • Cruises from San Juan
  • Cruises from San Francisco
  • Cruises from Seattle
  • Cruises from Tampa

Top Cruise Lines

  • Holland America Line
  • Credit cards
  • View all credit cards
  • Banking guide
  • Loans guide
  • Insurance guide
  • Personal finance
  • View all personal finance
  • Small business
  • Small business guide
  • View all taxes

You’re our first priority. Every time.

We believe everyone should be able to make financial decisions with confidence. And while our site doesn’t feature every company or financial product available on the market, we’re proud that the guidance we offer, the information we provide and the tools we create are objective, independent, straightforward — and free.

So how do we make money? Our partners compensate us. This may influence which products we review and write about (and where those products appear on the site), but it in no way affects our recommendations or advice, which are grounded in thousands of hours of research. Our partners cannot pay us to guarantee favorable reviews of their products or services. Here is a list of our partners .

The Best Ways to Book a Cruise

Lee Huffman

Many or all of the products featured here are from our partners who compensate us. This influences which products we write about and where and how the product appears on a page. However, this does not influence our evaluations. Our opinions are our own. Here is a list of our partners and here's how we make money .

Not all cruise sites are created equal. While you may find comparable prices on different sites, each site has its own benefits, offers and cancellation policies. 

Before you book, though, have a look at these credit cards that come with cruise benefits to sweeten the pot even more.

What is the best way to book a cruise?

The best place to book a cruise will vary depending on what you're looking for out of the experience. We've broken out cruise booking sites based on common booking goals.

From our findings, here are the top cruise booking sites for your next vacation, plus the pros and cons they offer travelers.

For sailings across the Caribbean, Mexico or Central America: CheapCaribbean

CheapCaribbean.com is the best cruise website for the Caribbean, Mexico or Central America. It offers a best-price guarantee plus limited-time offers and discounts.

If you find a better deal within 24 hours of booking, CheapCaribbean will price match and beat it by $25. The company's customer service is available seven days a week, from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. ET.

Best-price guarantee.

Customer service is available seven days a week.

Charges a $24.99 processing fee on reservations.

Must provide an email address to receive the best deals and promos.

» Learn more: The best cruise lines

For consulting reviews from other cruisers: Cruise Critic

Cruise Critic is an independent website that encourages community members to post reviews and share tips.

Its message boards offer ways for website visitors to ask questions and share feedback with others based on their personal experiences and opinions. The site also acts as a metasearch for cruise deals, pulling in prices from multiple cruise websites.

Read cruise reviews from travelers who've been on that itinerary before.

"Deal Score" ranks deals to find the best value.

Price tracker shows 90-day trends for cruise prices.

Must click through the deal to book your cruise on other websites.

Prices are not guaranteed and can change before booking due to fees and restrictions on the sites where the cruises are being sold.

To review several cruise prices at once: CruiseDirect

CruiseDirect is the best cruise website when all you want are cruise prices. It doesn't offer hotels, flights, rental cars or other reservations you may want for your next vacation. CruiseDirect does, however, offer bonuses for travelers booking through its site.

Travelers can filter search results by destination, cruise line or departure port on various ships. This site offers cruises for every type of traveler, from budget to luxury, and every type of ship, from riverboats to mega-ships.

Bonus offers on every reservation provide extra value.

Best-price guarantee and free reservation holds.

Buy now, pay later financing options.

Promos offered by cruise lines aren't exclusive to CruiseDirect.

Customer service can be unfriendly.

Video preview image

» Learn more: Should you insure your cruise?

For budget-friendly options: Priceline

Priceline was originally known for its "Name Your Own Price" promotions, but has grown into a full-service online travel agency offering flights, hotels, rental cars and cruises, saving consumers more than $1 billion dollars per year.

Travelers who book a cruise with Priceline receive up to $2,000 to spend at sea, plus waived deposits on their reservations.

Up to $2,000 to spend on board.

Waived deposits of up to $500 when booking your cruise.

110% best-price guarantee within 48 hours of booking.

Ability to book flights, hotels, rental cars and more from the same site.

Must call Priceline to get exclusive offers and unpublished fares.

Restrictions make the best-price guarantee harder to benefit from.

» Learn more: Tips for getting the best cruise deals

For booking travel experiences beyond the cruise: TripAdvisor

TripAdvisor is an online reviewer community where travelers share their experiences, pictures and ratings of hotels, suggested activities and more. This honest feedback and travel inspiration also make it one of the best websites to book a cruise.

Search over 70,000 cruise deals from more than 60 sites at once.

Dedicated ship pages share details, reviews, photos and itineraries.

Too many search results make it harder to narrow down your choices.

» Learn more: Are cruises all-inclusive?

To match with a vacation planner: Avoya Travel

Avoya Travel is a family-owned website that matches travelers with a vacation planner based on their preferences. It's the best way to book a cruise using a travel planner because it offers a low-price guarantee without charging extra fees for the planner.

The downside is that online pricing is not "live." Therefore, you must speak with a travel planner to get the latest prices and book your cruise.

Match with cruise planners according to your needs.

Does not charge Avoya fees for booking, changes or cancellations.

Get a low-price guarantee and the expertise of a vacation planner without extra fees.

Must become a member to unlock the best deals.

Pricing on the website is not "live" pricing, so actual cost may vary.

Cannot book a cruise online. You must speak with an independent vacation planner.

» Learn more: The best cruise insurance right now

To book a vacation package with an airline or hotel

American airlines cruises.

American Airlines AAdvantage members can earn airline miles when booking cruises at BookAACruises.com . All members earn one mile for every dollar they spend on cruise reservations, up to 10,000 miles. Some cruise specials offer up to 100,000 miles based on your selected cruise.

If you have an American Airlines credit card, you'll earn 2x miles, up to 20,000 miles. These miles and Loyalty Points count toward airline elite status. Additionally, trips booked through this site are eligible for promotions offered by the cruise lines.

Earn miles and Loyalty Points toward travel and elite status.

Cardholders earn 2x miles, up to 20,000 miles on cruises.

Cruise experts are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

Cruise reservations are offered by a third party, so customer service issues can be a challenge.

» Learn more: The best travel credit cards right now

Delta SkyMiles Cruises

Delta Air Lines is another airline that allows members to earn airline miles when booking cruises through its portal. Booking through SkyMilesCruises.com helps you earn Delta SkyMiles on your purchase.

Members get up to 10,000 miles on most cruises and up to 100,000 miles on luxury cruises. Plus, the site waives deposits on eligible cruise reservations.

Can earn up to 100,000 miles when booking a cruise.

Waives deposits when booking eligible cruises.

110% price guarantee within 48 hours of booking.

Most cruise awards are capped at 10,000 miles.

Miles earned are based on the length of the cruise, not the amount spent.

United Airlines Cruises

United Airlines MileagePlus members can earn up to 25,000 miles when booking a cruise through United at Cruises.United.com .

When you have a United Airlines credit card, you'll earn up to 45,000 miles. By offering up to 4x miles per dollar spent (or 7x as a cardholder), this site is the best way to book a cruise and earn airline miles on your purchase. If you have Premier status, you receive additional perks on select cruise lines, like wine and onboard credits.

Earn up to 7x miles on cruises.

United MileagePlus Premier members receive additional perks.

Can redeem miles to pay for some or all of your trip.

Not all cruises can be booked online.

Prices do not include a nonrefundable $24.99 processing fee.

Marriott Bonvoy Cruises

If you want to earn hotel points on your cruise, Marriott Cruise with Points is the best cruise website for you. You'll earn up to 6x points on your cruise purchase, or you can redeem Marriott Bonvoy points to pay for your trip.

Plus, Marriott cardholders can earn an extra 2x points when they use that card for their purchase. While most cruises max out at 25,000 Bonvoy points earned, some luxury cruise lines offer up to 250,000 Marriott points.

Earn up to 6x points on your cruise, up to 250,000 Marriott points.

Marriott cardholders receive an extra 2x points when paying with their cards.

Can use Bonvoy points to pay for your cruise.

Redemption value of Bonvoy points is only 0.4 cent.

Must call to book cruises using points.

Processing fee of $24.99 per reservation.

» Learn more: Airline credit cards vs. hotel credit cards

For cruise package deals: Costco Travel

Costco is a retailer that offers exclusive products and pricing to its members. Through its Costco Travel website , members receive exclusive prices and benefits when booking hotels, rental cars, cruises and travel packages.

Executive Members earn 2% back on Costco Travel purchases and receive additional benefits on select packages. Plus, Costco Anywhere Visa® Card by Citi cardholders earn 3% cash back rewards on Costco Travel purchases.

Earn 2% rewards and extra perks with Executive Membership.

Some cruises offer Costco gift cards or onboard credit.

Must be a member to book reservations with Costco Travel.

Directly with the Cruise Line

In some cases, booking directly with the cruise line can be best because it eliminates a third party. If there's a problem with your reservation or you need to make a change, you don't have to worry about the booking site and the cruise line pointing fingers at each other.

This may be the best approach if you know which cruise line you want to book and which cities you want to visit. However, you may miss out on promotions offered by third-party sites.

Simple search functions.

No hassles with third parties for problems, changes or cancellations.

Less likely to get scammed by fraudulent sites.

Miss out on deals offered by third-party sites.

Harder to compare prices, benefits and routes from multiple cruise lines.

Comparing cruise prices across websites

Without being able to compare prices, it can be a challenge to determine the best site for booking a cruise. To make it easier to compare, we priced out a 7-night Caribbean cruise for two adults. 

We selected the lowest-priced balcony room on Royal Caribbean departing from Miami in August 2023. Here are the results:

Mitigate cancellation policy risks with travel insurance

If you're worried your trip plans being disrupted by bad weather or a change of plans, travel insurance might help. This optional standalone insurance can be purchased separately from your cruise bookings.

But you might not even need to pay out-of-pocket for trip insurance because many credit cards offer travel insurance as a built-in benefit to customers who pay for travel expenses on that card.

» Learn more: The best credit cards for cruises

Travel cards with cruise benefits

You can get even more perks by booking your cruise with the right card.

Chase Sapphire Preferred Credit Card

on Chase's website

Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card

on Bank of America's website

The Platinum Card® from American Express

on American Express' website

Earn 75,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's over $900 when you redeem through Chase Travel℠.

Enjoy a one-time bonus of 75,000 miles once you spend $4,000 on purchases within 3 months from account opening, equal to $750 in travel.

Receive 60,000 online bonus points - a $600 value - after you make at least $4,000 in purchases in the first 90 days of account opening.

Earn 80,000 Membership Rewards® Points after you spend $8,000 on eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership. Terms Apply.

Get 25% more value out of your points when you book cruises through Chase.

Book with your card to get automatic travel protections for your cruise.

Redeem miles as a statement credit to cover spending on cruises.

Book with your card to get automatic travel insurance coverage for your cruise.

Earn 2x points on travel spending, including cruises and some ship excursions.

Book with your card to get trip delay reimbursement, trip cancellation coverage and other travel assistance services.

Get American Express Cruise Privileges Program benefits when you book at least five nights with eligible cruise lines. Terms apply.

Cruise program benefits include $300 credit redeemable toward dining and spa services plus amenities like wine, chocolates and champagne. Terms apply.

Booking a cruise recapped

When looking for the best way to book a cruise, the price is virtually the same on every website. The difference lies in how each seller sweetens the deal.

Several cruise booking sites set themselves apart from the competition by offering additional benefits to encourage booking through them. Additionally, being able to book other parts of your trip — like flight and excursions — on the same site, or offering access to a travel agent, distinguishes some of the best cruise websites. 

When prices are the same, we recommend cruise bookers compare the perks being offered, then book on the site with the most appealing bonuses, like onboard credits, airline miles, hotel points or cash back.

If you're searching for cruises on a third-party website, you may question the legitimacy of that site. This is especially true if the site doesn't look professional or some of the information is outdated.

For this reason, you should stick with one of the best cruise booking sites on this list because they've been vetted for legitimacy and have a good track record with travelers.

Yes, last-minute deals can be the best way to book a cruise. If your travel plans are flexible, these deals can save you a lot of money. Keep in mind that you may not be able to book your preferred destination or routing if it is sold out.

Unfortunately, most cruise lines do not offer free cancellations or changes to take advantage of price drops after you book. Passengers can always negotiate with a booking site or cruise line, but they aren't obligated to refund the difference. Instead, they may offer you onboard credit, complimentary excursions or credit toward another cruise booking.

How to maximize your rewards

You want a travel credit card that prioritizes what’s important to you. Here are our picks for the best travel credit cards of 2024 , including those best for:

Flexibility, point transfers and a large bonus: Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card

No annual fee: Bank of America® Travel Rewards credit card

Flat-rate travel rewards: Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card

Bonus travel rewards and high-end perks: Chase Sapphire Reserve®

Luxury perks: The Platinum Card® from American Express

Business travelers: Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card

1x-5x 5x on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠, 3x on dining, select streaming services and online groceries, 2x on all other travel purchases, 1x on all other purchases.

75,000 Earn 75,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's over $900 when you redeem through Chase Travel℠.

1.5x-2x Earn unlimited 2 points for every $1 spent on travel and dining purchases and unlimited 1.5 points for every $1 spent on all other purchases.

60,000 Receive 60,000 online bonus points - a $600 value - after you make at least $4,000 in purchases in the first 90 days of account opening.

easy travel & cruise

  • Favorites & Watchlist Find a Cruise Cruise Deals Cruise Ships Destinations Manage My Cruise​ FAQ Perfect Day at CocoCay Weekend Cruises Crown & Anchor Society Cruising Guides Gift Cards Contact Us Royal Caribbean Group
  • Back to Main Menu
  • Search Cruises " id="rciHeaderSideNavSubmenu-2-1" class="headerSidenav__link" href="/cruises" target="_self"> Search Cruises
  • Cruise Deals
  • Weekend Cruises
  • Last Minute Cruises
  • Family Cruises​
  • 2024-2025 Cruises
  • All Cruise Ships " id="rciHeaderSideNavSubmenu-4-1" class="headerSidenav__link" href="/cruise-ships" target="_self"> All Cruise Ships
  • Cruise Dining
  • Onboard Activities
  • Cruise Rooms
  • The Cruise Experience
  • All Cruise Destinations " id="rciHeaderSideNavSubmenu-5-1" class="headerSidenav__link" href="/cruise-destinations" target="_self"> All Cruise Destinations
  • Cruise Ports
  • Shore Excursions
  • Perfect Day at CocoCay
  • Caribbean Cruises
  • Bahamas Cruises​
  • Alaska Cruises
  • European Cruises​
  • Mediterranean Cruises​
  • Royal Destinations
  • Cruise Planner
  • Make a Payment
  • Check-In for My Cruise
  • Beverage Packages​
  • Shore Excursions​
  • Update Guest Information
  • Book a Flight
  • Dining Packages​
  • Royal Gifts
  • Required Travel Documents
  • Transportation
  • Book a Hotel
  • Redeem Cruise Credit
  • All FAQs " id="rciHeaderSideNavSubmenu-7-1" class="headerSidenav__link" href="/faq" target="_self"> All FAQs
  • Boarding Requirements
  • Future Cruise Credit​
  • Travel Documents​
  • Check-in​ & Boarding Pass
  • Transportation​
  • Perfect Day at CocoCay​
  • Post-Cruise Inquiries
  • Royal Caribbean
  • Celebrity Cruises

may caribbean cruise deals icon of the seas thrill island aerial view hp jumbotron 1920 1080

THE BEST CRUISE DEALS & SPECIAL OFFERS

Beach Coast Boats, Honduras Roatan

CARIBBEAN CRUISES

STARTING FROM 

Seville (Cadiz), Spain Square

europe cruises

Glacier Bay, Alaska

ALASKA CRUISES

Kid in waterslide Leaderboard 1560 260 FAM NF 2x

KIDS SAIL FREE

Kid in waterslide Portrait 900 1080 FAM NF 2x

NEWEST. BOLDEST. BEST.

Utopia of the Seas Aft Aerial

utopia of the seas

Star of the Seas Aft Aerial

star of the seas

Icon of the Seas Aerial View HP Jumbotron 1920 1080 FAM NF 2x

ICON of the seas

easy travel & cruise

{{error.text}} {{error.link.label}}

Web Banner 1300x220

LAST CALL ON CRUISE DEALS

Score big savings on last minute cruises

HP Mobile 750 910 FAM NF 2x1

SAIL FROM LOS ANGELES

ENSENADA CRUISES

WEEKEND GETAWAYS

Up Up and Away, Aerial View of the Island., Perfect Day at Coco Cay

SAIL FROM FLORIDA

View of the Coast Port, Roatan, Honduras

SAIL FROM GALVESTON

Western Caribbean

gift card holidays mobile banner

GIVE THE GIFT OF ADVENTURE

New Gift Cards Now Available

gift card holidays mobile slant

Vacation Financing

Booking a cruise has never been easier with flexible payment methods and payment options..

easy travel & cruise

  DISCOUNT CRUISE DEALS. SIGN UP FOR CURRENT PROMOTIONS

Sign up to receive information about our special offers and deals. You can unsubscribe at any time. For more details about how we use your information, view our Privacy Policy .

  GREAT CRUISES NEAR ME

Miami Beach Buildings

CRUISES FROM

Texas Galveston Carnival Pier

CAPE LIBERTY

Sunset Skies Mountain Views, Seattle, Washington

top cruise destinations 

Symphony  and Navigator of the Seas at Perfect Day

THE BAHAMAS

Woman Hiking in St Kitts

THE CARIBBEAN

HP_Mobile_Island_Family_Surf_Cozumel_Mexico

AMAZING SEASONAL CRUISE DEALS  

Costa Rica Punta Arenas Surfing

SPRING CRUISES

Palm Trees on a Sunny Day

Summer CRUISES

Couple Splashing in the Ocean

fall CRUISES

Santa Driving a Jeep in the Caribbean

winter CRUISES

Royal Caribbean Cruise Deals Guide

When it comes to planning the ultimate getaway, there are so many reasons why cruise vacations rank among the most popular travel options. First of all, they’re completely stress-free. On a cruise vacation, all the planning is taken care of by the cruise line — from the destinations you sail to and the shore excursions available at each port, to a full range of entertainment and activities happening onboard every day. If you’re not a planner, or if the only things you’re looking to focus on during your getaway is savoring great food, relaxing, and soaking up the sights, cruise vacations are the way to go. A cruise vacation is also a great option if you’re traveling with the whole family, especially when you opt for a Royal Caribbean cruise. All of the ships in this cruise line’s fleet offer family-friendly experiences for guests of all ages. Even little ones will find plenty of ways to play with spaces and activities designed for tots to tweens. One of the top reasons savvy travelers love cruising, though, is because of the incredible value it offers. With Royal Caribbean, your cruise fare includes access to most of the ship’s attractions, select dining venues and all of the entertainment onboard. If you want to make your experience even more all-inclusive, you can opt for beverage and specialty dining packages that cover drinks and dinner at some of the most exclusive restaurants in the fleet. On top of all that, the cruise line presents frequent limited-time offers and seasonal sales, making it easy to score big savings when booking your vacation.

I’m ready to start planning my cruise — how can I score the best deals?

Whether you’re looking to book a short getaway or a longer adventure to far-flung destinations, Royal Caribbean makes it easy to save big on everything from your cruise fare to special experiences onboard and onshore. The first step to making sure you get the best deals is to join the cruise line’s email list. Once you’ve signed up, you’ll receive regular updates on all the latest offers, like deals by destination , kids sail free promotions and flash sales. The savings don’t end when you book your cruise, though. Once you’ve made a reservation, you’ll also receive notifications about special offers for onboard experiences — like discounts on beverage and specialty dining packages, shore excursions, spa services, and more via My Royal Cruise .

Does it pay to plan ahead, or should I wait until the last minute?  

It’s an age-old question — does the early bird really get the worm, or are there perks to taking a “wait-and-see” approach? If you’re booking a cruise vacation, you’ll find there are benefits to both strategies. Planning ahead is a great way to score big savings , as Royal Caribbean often runs early saver deals to guests booking well in advance. It’s also pretty safe to assume prices usually go up as availability goes down the closer you get to your sail date, so booking ahead is a surefire way to lock in a great rate. That said, booking a cruise at the last minute can also yield some unexpected savings — but only if the itinerary you’re interested in hasn’t sold out yet.

If you can be flexible when it comes to your travel dates, you’ll have your pick of unbeatable savings. Popular vacation dates — like the holidays , spring break , summer vacation and week long cruises — sometimes see the highest prices (though you might get lucky with a seasonal sale). If you have the flexibility to travel during the shoulder season or off season, you’ll likely enjoy big savings on popular stateroom categories , like Balconies and even Suites. The deals don’t only apply to your cruise fare, though. Once you’ve booked your vacation, you could easily unlock discounts and specials on add-ons, including beverage and dining packages , Voom® high speed internet, shore excursions, and amazing experiences not included in your cruise fare — like a day of pampering at Vitality SM Spa, a behind-the-scenes tour of the ship’s galley followed by brunch, VIP seating at shows, and much more.

How can I maximize the value of my cruise vacation?

There are plenty of ways to get more bang for your buck when you sail on a Royal Caribbean cruise. Every ship in the fleet offers a range of delicious complimentary dining options , but you can dig into even more crave-worthy flavor by purchasing a Specialty Dining Package for less ahead of your cruise. Add a Specialty Beverage Package — which includes unlimited alcoholic beverages, soda, and more — and your experience is as close to all-inclusive as it gets. And with so many complimentary shows and attractions onboard, you can easily fill every sea day without spending a single dollar extra.

Royal Caribbean also offers deals based on departure ports  and destinations, so if you’re a flexible traveler looking for great savings, you can plan your next vacation around which itineraries are on sale. Just check your email or visit RoyalCaribbean.com/cruise-deals to stay up to date on promotions, sales and special offers. You can even browse sailings and deals by homeport, destination and season, so you can rest assured you’re getting the best possible deal no matter when or where in the world you choose to set sai.

Ready to start planning your next getaway? Start exploring cruise deals now.

Explore more.

Alaska cruise travel Glacier Bay vacation.

Previewing: Promo Dashboard Campaigns

My Personas

Code: ∅.

Get Daily Travel Tips & Deals!

By proceeding, you agree to our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use .

Is easyCruise as cheap and easy as it claims?

easy travel & cruise

Erica Silverstein

Travel Smarter! Sign up for our free newsletter.

It’s “the perfect holiday for independently minded people in their 20s, 30s, and 40s,” boasts the easyCruise website . The cabins may be small and the frills nonexistent, but the base price is low and the cruise ship will drop you off at a [% 328989 | | different island %] each day with plenty of time to see the sights and enjoy the nightlife. And when the ship sails, the outdoor bar on Deck 5 is supposed to be hopping with a hot-tubbing, drinking, and dancing young crowd.

Sound good? I thought so, so I signed up for seven days of sailing the Caribbean during easyCruise’s first ever winter season. But when I stepped into the sports bar on my first day onboard and saw a sea of white hair, and then paid almost $20 for a disappointing meal, I began to have some doubts. Was the Caribbean easyCruise experience as cheap, easy, and fun as the website promised?

What they promised and what I got

For a very low per-day rate, easyCruise offers a place to sleep, access to the ship’s onboard amenities, and transportation between [% 328989 | | Barbados, St. Vincent, Martinique, Bequia (a Grenadine island), Grenada, and St. Lucia %] for a minimum of two and a maximum of 14 days. Onboard amenities include a coffee shop, a sundries shop, a sports-themed restaurant, an outdoor bar with hot tub, a sun deck (though I never saw anyone up there), and a gym (ditto for the gym). The cruise line also operates a couple of shore excursions in each port for an additional charge, and these occasionally get canceled, mostly due to lack of interest.

From all that I read about other travelers’ experiences on easyCruise, I was expecting a minimalist cabin, long days on shore, and nonstop partying on Deck 5 (the outdoor bar) in the evenings. My expectations were only somewhat correct. Here’s a rundown of what easyCruise promises on its website, and what I found on my Caribbean cruise.

‘ easyCruiseOne features a unique minimalist chic orange colored cabin design with frosted glass fittings.’

The cruise line’s description is pretty much accurate. Most cabins feature two twin mattresses on a raised platform with about a hand’s width of space in between them, two hooks and eight hangers for clothing and towels, a high shelf, and a ledge along the headboard. Luggage must be stored on the shelf (for small bags) and along the narrow hallway (for suitcases). The mattresses and duvets are relatively comfortable, though the pillows are flat. And, of course, some of the walls, the headboard, and the platform are bright orange. Most rooms have no window, but you can pay more for doubles with a window, windowless quads, or suites with balconies.

An en suite bathroom is enclosed in mostly translucent glass (the tops and bottoms are transparent so you can see your roommate’s feet when she showers) and hold a towel rack, a toilet, sink, mirror, and shower with no curtain. When you shower, most of the bathroom gets wet, and any noise you make in the bathroom can be heard throughout the cabin. Clearly, easyCruise is not the place for modest people.

I found the bathrooms frustrating, especially as ours had a stick instead of a lock and our toilet stopped working on two separate occasions. But, I’ve stayed in hostels that offered much less. In the end, the cabins were more or less as expected, though a few design modifications could make them more user-friendly.

‘The ship stays in port every night until 4:00 a.m. in the Riviera and 11:00 p.m. in the Caribbean, allowing you to enjoy the life on shore—the beach, sightseeing, shopping, dining, and clubbing.’

The above statement is quite misleading. With the exceptions of Barbados and Bequia, we had to be onboard by 9:30 or 10:00 p.m. every night. Not only was there no chance to experience any nightlife, but we often had to rush through dinner in order to get back to the ship on time. Our early departures could have been due to the fact that the ship was down to only one working engine, but I don’t really want to think about that. One of easyCruise’s biggest selling points for me was its long hours in port, so I felt a bit shortchanged.

‘The idea is to offer a unique holiday experience to independently minded travelers in their 20s, 30s, and 40s.’

I read that the average age on easyCruise in the Mediterranean is 32, and was expecting a similarly young crowd in the Caribbean that would spend the evenings mingling and reveling at the outdoor bar. Later I learned the average age in the Caribbean is 38. That means there should be as many 20-year-olds as 60-year-olds onboard, but I would bet the average age on my sailing leaned more toward 60 than 20.

My travel companion and I hung out with seven other travelers who were our age (20s and 30s); we saw a few more, but they only spoke French. Most of the other passengers were older—many significantly older—and the Deck 5 bar was usually not well attended in the evening. I witnessed no hot tub hijinks or drunken bumping and grinding, which was fine with me, but I would have preferred a little more socializing after 10:00 p.m. With nothing else to do onboard but go to bed, I was hoping the other guests would provide some late-night entertainment.

I learned from some of the crew that prior to Christmas, evening events such as karaoke, salsa lessons, and The Newlywed Game brought the crowds to the bar. But those events had stopped, and on nights when people happened to dance I could count the revelers on one hand. I was disappointed with this change, but it does mean you’ll never have trouble getting a spot in the hot tub.

Is EasyCruise cheap?

Yes and no. Your cruise fare is ridiculously cheap; we paid $372 for seven nights’ double occupancy (that’s roughly $27 per person per day) in a windowless cabin. Four people sharing a quad can pay even less. And, if you book early, you can often find easyCruise specials for still less. However, prices are going up. A suite on a Mediterranean sailing that cost $1,320 last October would be closer to $2,000 by this October.

Airfare is also a significant expense. You’ll need to shell out at least $500, likely more, to get to any of the islands in the winter high season. You might be able to find deals on November and early-December airfare, but in January, February, and March, plane ticket prices go sky high. For the Mediterranean sailings, Europeans can find cheap tickets on sister company easyJet or another low-fare airline, making an easyCruise an all-round discount option. In the Caribbean, everyone is coming from afar and paying for the privilege.

Onboard, we saved by ordering the discounted drink of the day at the bar and the discounted room cleaning on Wednesday in Bequia. I had hoped to make it through the week without a towel change or room cleaning, but when you take most of St. Vincent’s black sand beaches home with you in your bathing suit, it becomes imperative to clean your bathroom. On the flip side, we found the onboard meals at the sports bar to be overpriced for the low quality of the food; the vegetarian options were plentiful but rarely lived up to expectations. Maybe the burgers were better.

Plus, at the end of the cruise, we learned that though all onboard prices were listed in dollars, easyCruise will charge your credit card in euros. When your bank then converts the euros to U.S. dollars, you’ll have lost money through two currency exchanges, rather than one. So everything onboard is more expensive than it seems.

Onshore, I figured we could save a lot by eating locally rather than returning to the ship for meals; on many of the islands, food did come cheap. We often bought fruit and bread from local markets or grocery stores and took advantage of the favorable exchange rate with the Eastern Caribbean dollar. Travelers who like street food can save big with local specialties.

But unless we were willing to take our chances with local public transport, such as shared vans, we found transportation costs on the islands could snap our travel budget in two. If you’re traveling in a group of four or can hook up with other passengers, you can save a lot by splitting the cost of cabs or car rentals. You probably do not want to spend a lot of time in most of the port towns, and you’ll need some sort of transportation even if you’re just headed for a nearby beach, let alone if you want to explore the island. If you’re a single traveler, you might get more for your money if you opt for easyCruise’s shore excursions. You can potentially save by booking your excursions independently of easyCruise, but you’ll need to do this in advance, before you know what time the ship will dock at each island.

In this respect, the Mediterranean itineraries seem superior. “When you have ports that are 2,000 years old,” says Bob Blake of Fodor’s, who sailed easyCruise in the Mediterranean in October, “everything is built close to the water.” From the ship, you can walk to restaurants and shops or take public transportation if you’re going far. Europe is much more suited to independent travelers than the Caribbean, where there’s less of an infrastructure for a kind of travel that isn’t dependent on taxi rides and tours.

When you add up what I spent on airfare, cruise fare, meals, and cabin cleaning, I paid just over $1,000. I could certainly pay about the same price for a seven-day Caribbean cruise out of Florida on Carnival and have a nicer cabin and better onboard facilities. On the other hand, I might not get to experience local cuisine or the intimacy of a small ship where I got to know other passengers and crewmembers.

Is it easy?

Not in the Caribbean. Well, it’s certainly an easy way to see six islands in so many days. If you tried to arrange interisland transportation on your own, you would spend a lot of time in very small airports and would probably end up exhausted.

I contend that easyCruise isn’t so easy because in order to have a good time, you have to do a lot of legwork. Before our cruise, my travel companion and I read everything we could about easyCruise and the islands we were visiting. Every night, we’d pull out our two guidebooks and various travel brochures and try to figure out what to do the next day. But both of us love planning trips, so for us, this was fun.

The real problem was that often we’d find that we’d be interested in seeing a certain attraction but in order to do that we’d either have to pay through the nose for a taxi or car rental (or find other travelers to join us), book a tour (which we couldn’t do onboard), or play bus roulette and risk getting stranded if we couldn’t find a bus back. If all you want to do is pay for a cab to take you to the beach, easyCruise can be fairly easy. If you are an “independently minded” traveler on a tight budget who wants to explore the islands, easyCruise can present a bit of a challenge.

The easyCruise staff occasionally provided a port map but couldn’t answer logistical questions about getting around the islands. Usually, a tourist office was located at the pier so you could get a map, but sometimes there wasn’t even that. In St. Lucia, we were dropped off at a sketchy ferry port far from the main cruise terminal with no signs pointing our way to town or a tourist office. Luckily, I had been to the island before and managed to head in the right direction.

Once we got to the beach or restaurant on each island, I really enjoyed my experience. We saw baby turtles at a turtle sanctuary, sipped cocktails at an outdoor bar while watching the sunset, and swam under a waterfall. But, I felt that I had to put a lot of effort into getting to that point, more than I ever had to in my rambles through Europe.

Was it worth it?

The Caribbean easyCruise experience does not live up to the high expectations set by its more popular Mediterranean counterpart. This failing may be the unofficial reason why company-head Stelios is thinking about sending the easyCruiseOne to Florida next winter to sail Bahamas itineraries. Cheaper airfare to Miami or Ft. Lauderdale could attract the young socializers who livened up the Mediterranean (and made easyCruise a profit with sold-out ships and a booming cocktail service).

If you don’t mind no-frills cabins, can travel in a group of four or more, and like to do advance planning, you can probably have a fabulous time seeing some less-touristed Caribbean islands on a tight budget. The itinerary is certainly the best thing about the experience. Or, if you just want to get some sun and turn in early, easyCruise can also be an economical option.

However, if you’re an explorer with a limited expense account, easyCruise may be tough going. You can’t easily see a lot of an island without coughing up the cash, and while men can hop into a shared van and let the wind carry them to the next adventure, women travelers are advised to be more cautious.

EasyCruise plies the waters of the Caribbean through April 29, then repositions to the Mediterranean and begins its summer season on May 13. If you’re looking for the best that easyCruise has to offer, I’d recommend skipping the Caribbean and getting a discounted early-bird deal on the Europe sailings.

We hand-pick everything we recommend and select items through testing and reviews. Some products are sent to us free of charge with no incentive to offer a favorable review. We offer our unbiased opinions and do not accept compensation to review products. All items are in stock and prices are accurate at the time of publication. If you buy something through our links, we may earn a commission.

Top Fares From

easy travel & cruise

Don't see a fare you like? View all flight deals from your city.

Today's top travel deals.

Brought to you by ShermansTravel

Greece: 6-Night Athens, Nauplia, Olympia &...

easy travel & cruise

Luxe, 7-Night Caribbean & Mexico Cruise...

Regent Seven Seas Cruises

easy travel & cruise

Ohio: Daily Car Rentals from Cincinnati

easy travel & cruise

Trending on SmarterTravel

Advertiser Disclosure

Many of the credit card offers that appear on this site are from credit card companies from which we receive financial compensation. This compensation may impact how and where products appear on this site (including, for example, the order in which they appear). However, the credit card information that we publish has been written and evaluated by experts who know these products inside out. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse. This site does not include all credit card companies or all available credit card offers that are on the market.  See our advertising policy here where we list advertisers that we work with, and how we make money. You can also review our  credit card rating methodology .

The 17 Best Websites To Book Cruises at the Cheapest Prices [2024]

Katie Seemann's image

Katie Seemann

Senior Content Contributor and News Editor

344 Published Articles 53 Edited Articles

Countries Visited: 28 U.S. States Visited: 29

Juan Ruiz's image

Senior Editor & Content Contributor

98 Published Articles 692 Edited Articles

Countries Visited: 41 U.S. States Visited: 28

Keri Stooksbury's image

Keri Stooksbury

Editor-in-Chief

35 Published Articles 3208 Edited Articles

Countries Visited: 47 U.S. States Visited: 28

The 17 Best Websites To Book Cruises at the Cheapest Prices [2024]

Table of Contents

1. cruise line’s website, 2. cheapcaribbean.com, 3. cruise critic, 4. cruisedirect, 5. priceline, 6. tripadvisor, 7. cruisesonly, 10. cruises.com, 11. american airlines cruises, 12. delta skymiles cruises, 13. united cruises, 14. marriott bonvoy cruises, 15. costco travel, 16. cruise.com, 17. travelocity, price comparisons, final thoughts.

We may be compensated when you click on product links, such as credit cards, from one or more of our advertising partners. Terms apply to the offers below. See our  Advertising Policy for more about our partners, how we make money, and our rating methodology. Opinions and recommendations are ours alone.

So, you’ve decided you want to go on a cruise. Great news! But, do you know where to book it to get the best price?

There’s no shortage of websites out there that can help you book a cruise. There may even be more options to book cruises than hotels or flights. In addition to the traditional online travel agencies, there are a bunch of cruise-only sites that you can choose from, too.

So how do you know which site offers the best price? That’s where we come in. We combed through the most popular websites used to book cruises to look at their pros and cons and to do some head-to-head price comparisons.

If you’re only concerned about finding the cheapest price, scroll down to the price comparison section at the bottom of this post to see how all of these sites stack up against each other.

Your first instinct when booking a cruise may be to go directly to the cruise line’s website, especially if you have elite status with a specific cruise line. There are definitely some benefits to this — it’s simple and there are fewer hassles if you have to make any changes .

If you’re sure of the cruise line you want to take, it makes your search a little easier because you’re just looking at one specific line.

The big drawback when booking directly on a cruise line’s website is that you can miss out on extra deals that online travel agencies (OTAs) may offer.

Pros and Cons of Booking Directly with the Cruise Line

  • Simpler search functions make it easier to locate specific cruises.
  • There’s no middleman (another website) to deal with if there is a problem.
  • You might miss out on extra deals offered by other sites.

Bottom Line: No matter where you choose to book your cruise, be sure to use the right credit card — refer to our list of best credit cards for cruises to get you started.

CheapCaribbean.com is an OTA that specializes in travel to the Caribbean, Mexico, and Central America. It was founded in 2000 and prides itself on offering the best prices and great U.S.-based customer service . The site’s sales agents are available 7 days a week to help you plan your ultimate Caribbean vacation.

Despite the name, you can book cruises to destinations other than the Caribbean through CheapCaribbean.com, including Europe, Canada, Hawaii, and Alaska.

Cheap Caribbean cruise booking

CheapCaribbean.com sometimes offers extra bonuses, like extra onboard spending credit. Plus it offers a 110% best price guarantee — if you find the exact same cruise for a cheaper price (available to the general public) on another website, CheapCaribbean.com will refund 110% of the price difference.

The not-so-great thing about CheapCaribbean.com is that it charges a $24.99 processing fee on each booking. It’s lumped into the taxes and fees, so you may not realize it unless you read the fine print.

CheapCaribbean.com processing fee

Pros and Cons of CheapCaribbean.com

  • Occasional special deals like extra onboard credit may be offered.
  • 110% best price guarantee.
  • There’s a $24.99 processing fee on each booking.
  • You need to sign up for emails or call in to book a cruise if you want to access exclusive deals.

Hot Tip: Want to save more? CheapCaribbean.com offers exclusive deals to email subscribers and offers unpublished fares and exclusive offers if you call in to book your cruise. 

Cruise Critic is a cruise-focused website that features reviews, tips, and advice for a huge community of cruisers. The Cruise Critic forums provide a place to ask questions, give advice, and get help booking your next cruise.

The site also acts as a metasearch engine for cruises, allowing you to compare prices from lots of other websites . You can search for your perfect cruise and when it’s time to book, Cruise Critic will transfer you to another site to complete your booking.

Cruise Critic

Pros and Cons of Cruise Critic

  • The site offers lots of cruise reviews, plus cruise tips and a travel forum to help you plan your trip.
  • You can sign up for email alerts so you’re notified when the price of a cruise drops.
  • The prices you see are not guaranteed and may be subject to other fees or restrictions depending on what website they are from.

CruiseDirect is a website that specializes only in cruises. The site allows you to quickly search cruises by destination, cruise line, departure port, or last-minute deals . You’ll find lots of different types of cruises, from budget to luxury and from mega-ships to riverboats.

With each cruise listing, you’ll see bonus details next to each sailing date — just click on each icon for details. Some of these are already reflected in the price and some are extras like onboard ship credit or discounts on shore excursions.

CruiseDirect.com perks

Pros and Cons of CruiseDirect

  • Bonuses are offered with each cruise ranging from discounts, shipboard credit, or discounts on shore excursions.
  • The bonuses offered are often from the cruise line and not exclusive to CruiseDirect, so you can get them regardless of where you book.
  • The site is a bit cluttered and can be hard to navigate.

Kayak is a popular online travel agency but the site doesn’t support cruise searches anymore.

Priceline gained fame from its “Name Your Own Price” feature but has since transformed into a more traditional OTA. In addition to hotels, flights, and rental cars, you can use this site to book cruises, too.

Priceline often offers deals above and beyond what’s being offered through the cruise line. At the time of writing, a few different deals offered perks like $1,000 in onboard credit or 30% off every guest .

Priceline Cruise Deals

Plus, Priceline offers a 110% best price guarantee — if you find a lower, publicly available price for the exact same cruise within 48 hours of booking, you’ll be refunded 110% of the price difference.

Pros and Cons of Priceline

  • Extra deals like onboard credit or room upgrades are sometimes offered.
  • The site offers a 110% best-price guarantee.
  • Some offers, including the one for up to $1,000 in shipboard credit can be confusing. Once you read the fine print, you’ll realize you need to spend $20,000 to get the full $1,000 credit.

Hot Tip: For more information, check out our detailed guide on booking travel with Priceline .

While you might think of Tripadvisor as just a place to get reviews and photos of hotels, restaurants, and activities, it’s actually much more than that. In addition to reviews and traveler forums, Tripadvisor acts as a metasearch engine , comparing prices on lots of other websites.

When you’re searching for a cruise, just click on the drop-down arrow that tells you how many deals there are — then you’ll be able to see that cruise’s price on many sites.

Tripadvisor Cruises

Pros and Cons of Tripadvisor

  • It offers lots of great ship reviews and travel forums.
  • It’s a great site to quickly compare prices on many sites at once.
  • You may not be able to see all the deals being offered on each site.

Hot Tip: For more information, check out our detailed guide to booking travel on Tripadvisor .

CruisesOnly claims to be “the best” because each of its call center agents has an average of 5+ years of experience plus professional training.

While that might be helpful if you’re new to cruising or need some advice about which cruise line, ship, or destination you should choose, it doesn’t necessarily mean you’re getting the best price (scroll down to the Price Comparison section to see how CruisesOnly stacks up against other websites).

CruisesOnly also has its own loyalty program. The V.I.P. Customer Loyalty Club is free, and you’re signed up automatically if you have booked with CruisesOnly at least once before. Benefits include things like shore excursion credits and onboard spending credits.

CruisesOnly loyalty program

The V.I.P. Customer Loyalty Club only applies to cruises on these cruise lines:

  • Holland America
  • Royal Caribbean

CruisesOnly’s best price guarantee is similar to other sites — a refund of 110% of the price difference if you find a lower price on an identical cruise within 48 hours of booking.

Pros and Cons of CruisesOnly

  • The V.I.P. Customer Loyalty Club is free and offers plenty of benefits.
  • The site offers a 110% best price guarantee.
  • The site, like many other OTAs, can be very busy, making it hard to narrow down the cruise you really want to take.
  • The loyalty program only applies to 6 cruise lines.

When booking a cruise through an OTA, be sure to use a card that earns bonus points on travel purchases, such as the  Chase Sapphire Reserve ®  which earns 3x Ultimate Rewards points on cruises purchased from any website or travel agency.

Expedia might be one of the first websites you visit to search for flights or hotels (and it’s probably a site you have used for a long time), but did you know that you can book a cruise through Expedia as well?

The site is straightforward, easy to use, and offers cruises from all the major cruise lines . While Expedia doesn’t charge any booking fees, it also doesn’t offer any price guarantees. However, you can sometimes find additional bonuses for booking your cruise through Expedia.

It also does a nice job of showing exactly what’s included and what might cost extra.

Expedia Cruises

Pros and Cons of Expedia

  • The site sometimes offers extra bonuses like onboard credit.
  • It’s easy to use and is very clear about what’s included in the price.
  • No price guarantee is offered

Hot Tip: For more information check out our complete guide to using Expedia .

Orbitz is a typical OTA that offers flights, hotels, car rentals, vacation packages, and cruises. There are no booking fees on cruises and a price guarantee is offered . However, the price guarantee isn’t as strong as some of the other sites — you’ll need to find a lower price within 24 hours to receive the difference in price as a refund.

Like Expedia, Orbitz does a good job at displaying prices clearly so there’s no confusion.

Orbitz cruises breakdown

One of the nice things about Orbitz is that it offers a rewards program, but, unfortunately, cruises are not eligible for Orbitz Rewards.

Pros and Cons of Orbitz

  • It offers a best price guarantee.
  • There are no booking, change, or cancellation fees.
  • Cruises aren’t eligible for Orbitz Rewards

Hot Tip: For more information, check out our complete guide to using Orbitz to book travel .

Cruises.com is another site that claims to be the best place to book your cruise. It can offer some impressive deals, but once you read the fine print, well, you realize there’s a lot of fine print.

For example, a deal was offered for up to $2,000 cashback, $1,500 to spend onboard, or a Visa gift card. However, after reading the fine print you’ll notice that in order to get the full bonus you’d have to spend $20,000+ on a cruise. To top it off, the bonus is only available for select cruise lines.

Cruises.com 2000 offer

So while the deals offered could be lucrative, they aren’t necessarily a slam dunk.

Cruises.com also has its own loyalty program. It’s free and you’re signed up automatically if you have booked with Cruises.com at least once before. Benefits include things like shore excursion credits, onboard spending credits, or deposit waivers. Benefits are identical to those offered through the CruisesOnly loyalty program.

Pros and Cons of Cruises.com

  • A loyalty program is offered for past guests.
  • There are sometimes extra bonuses beyond what’s offered by the cruise line.
  • There is a lot of fine print with its offers.

Hot Tip: Cruises.com and CruisesOnly are both owned by World Travel Holdings, along with other websites, including Cruise411.com. These sites offer the same loyalty program and similar perks, however, their prices can be different.

Did you know that you can book a cruise through American Airlines ? The best part is that when you do, you’ll earn American Airlines AAdvantage miles for your purchase (in addition to any points or miles you will earn from your credit card).

  • Earn 1 AAdvantage mile per $1 spent on cruises booked through American Airlines (up to 10,000 miles)
  • American Airlines credit cardholders will earn 2 AAdvantage miles per $1 spent on cruises booked through American Airlines (up to 20,000 miles)
  • Occasionally, additional bonus points will be offered for select cruises

Hot Tip: Base miles earned by booking a cruise through American Airlines will also count as Loyalty Points that help you earn American Airlines elite status .

American Airlines Cruises also offers a 110% best price guarantee — if you find the exact same cruise priced lower within 48 hours of booking, you’ll be refunded 110% of the price difference.

The bad news is that you’re charged a $24.99 processing fee on every booking.

Pros and Cons of American Airlines Cruises

  • AAdvantage members have the ability to earn lots of American Airlines miles and Loyalty Points.
  • There is a $24.99 processing fee on every booking.

Bottom Line: While you can book a cruise through American Airlines, you can’t use AAdvantage miles to pay for it.

In addition to flights, you can book cruises through Delta Air Lines’ SkyMiles Cruises and earn Delta SkyMiles at the same time.

Currently, you’ll earn 2 SkyMiles per $1 spent on a cruise , excluding the taxes, fees, and port charges.

SkyMiles Cruises also offers a 110% best price guarantee — if you find the exact same cruise priced lower within 48 hours of booking, you’ll be refunded 110% of the price difference.

Pros and Cons of Delta SkyMiles Cruises

  • Earn extra Delta SkyMiles.

Bottom Line: While you can book a cruise through SkyMiles Cruises, you can’t pay for your cruise with Delta SkyMiles.

When you book a cruise with United Cruises you can choose to either earn United MileagePlus miles for your purchase or you can use MileagePlus miles to pay for your cruise !

United Cruises offers different ways to earn miles on your next cruise:

  • Earn 2 MileagePlus miles per $1 spent on an interior or oceanview stateroom
  • Earn 4 MileagePlus miles per $1 spent on a balcony stateroom or suite
  • Any United MileagePlus credit cardholder will earn 4 MileagePlus miles per $1 spent on an interior or oceanview stateroom
  • Any United MileagePlus credit cardholder will earn 7 MileagePlus miles per $1 spent on a balcony or suite stateroom

Additionally, there are sometimes opportunities to earn even more miles.

United Cruises offers a 110% best price guarantee — if you find the exact same cruise priced lower within 48 hours of booking, you’ll be refunded 110% of the price difference.

Unfortunately, United Cruises charges a $24.99 processing fee on every booking.

Bonuses for United Premier Members

If you have any Premier status with United Airlines you’ll also receive onboard extras with select cruise lines:

  • A bottle of wine and chocolate-covered strawberries in your stateroom
  • $100 spa credit
  • $200 onboard credit
  • $250 onboard credit

Use United MileagePlus Miles To Pay for Your Cruise

Paying for your cruise with miles is a great option to have. Unfortunately, you’ll lose out on some value if you do so .

When you book a cruise using United Miles, you’ll get about 0.7 to 0.8 cents per mile in value. United miles are generally worth around 1.3 cents per mile (or more if you’re booking business or first class flights), so you’re getting less value than you could get if you used your miles for a flight.

However, if you have a bundle of United miles and prefer cruising to flying, it might be a good redemption for you.

Pros and Cons of United Cruises

  • MileagePlus members have the ability to earn lots of extra miles.
  • United Premier members receive extra perks with Norwegian, Oceania, and Regent Seven Seas Cruise Lines.

Bottom Line: When you choose to book your cruise through United Cruises, you can either earn United MileagePlus miles on your purchase, or you can pay for your cruise using your United MileagePlus miles.

Marriott Bonvoy Cruises allows you to earn Marriott Bonvoy points on your cruise or you can choose to pay for your cruise with Marriott Bonvoy points !

When you book a cruise through Marriott , you’ll earn up to 3 points per $1 spent . Chase Marriott Bonvoy credit cardholders will earn an extra 2 Marriott Bonvoy points per $1 spent on a cruise booked through Marriott Bonvoy Cruises.

Marriott Bonvoy also offers a 110% best price guarantee — if you find the exact same cruise priced lower within 48 hours of booking, you’ll be refunded 110% of the price difference.

Hot Tip: If you book a cruise through Marriott Bonvoy, know that you’ll be charged a non-refundable processing fee of $24.99. That’s a pretty hefty fee considering many other sites don’t charge any fees.

Use Marriott Bonvoy Points To Pay for Your Cruise

It’s a great option to be able to pay for your cruise with points , and Marriott Bonvoy makes that possible. However, it’s not the best way to use your Marriott Bonvoy points.

When booking a cruise with Marriott Bonvoy points, you’ll only get 0.4 cents per point in value. Since Marriott Bonvoy points are generally worth about 0.7 cents each, you’ll be missing out on some value, so you might want to look into other ways to redeem your Marriott Bonvoy for hotels or flights .

Pros and Cons of Marriott Bonvoy Cruises

  • Members can earn extra Marriott Bonvoy points.
  • You can pay for your cruise with Marriott Bonvoy points.
  • The site offers a 110% best price guarantee
  • You’ll be charged a non-refundable processing fee of $24.99 per reservation.
  • Marriott cruises can only be booked with Marriott Bonvoy points over the phone.

Bottom Line: When you book a cruise through Marriott Bonvoy, you can pay for your cruise with points or you can choose to pay cash (I mean, credit card!) and earn Marriott Bonvoy points on your purchase.

Costco Travel is an in-house travel agency that’s only available to Costco members . Costco offers 2 levels of membership: Gold Star for $60 per year and Executive for $120 per year. Executive membership comes with a valuable extra perk for travelers — 2% back on your purchases through Costco Travel (up to $1,000)!

Another great thing about Costco Travel is that you’ll sometimes find deals that offer extra shipboard credit or a Costco shop card as a bonus.

Costco Travel is easy to use and offers all of the search and filter functions found on any other website.

Pros and Cons of Costco Travel

  • Executive members receive 2% back on purchases through Costco Travel.
  • Costco shop cards or onboard credit are sometimes offered as a bonus.
  • Costco Travel is for members only.

Hot Tip: For more information, check out our detailed post on using Costco Travel .

Cruise.com  is a cluttered website and can be overwhelming when you’re searching for a cruise (especially if you’re a first-time cruiser and not quite sure how everything works). It offers lots of deals and discounts, but many of those are actually offered through the cruise line, so it can be hard to tell which bonuses are actually coming from Cruise.com.

Cruise.com offers

Pros and Cons of Cruise.com

  • Lots of deals for a variety of cruise lines are offered.
  • The website is very busy and cluttered.
  • No price guarantee is offered.
  • You may be contacted by cruise.com after searching for a cruise on the site.

Hot Tip: Don’t be confused — Cruise.com and Cruises.com are 2 separate websites!

Travelocity is a website that many travelers use to book flights, hotels, rental cars, and cruises. The simple interface and the fact that there are no booking fees will make this a good choice for many travelers.

While Travelocity doesn’t advertise as many deals and savings as other sites, the price still manages to come out about the same as other websites.

Pros and Cons of Travelocity

  • There are no booking fees.
  • It’s simple to use.
  • No rewards program or extra bonus points.

Hot Tip: For more information, check out our complete guide to booking travel with Travelocity .

Let’s get to the important part — price comparisons! We priced out a 7-night Eastern Caribbean cruise from Miami on Royal Caribbean’s Icon of the Seas. Prices are for 2 adults in an Infinite Central Park View Balcony room.

As you can see, most websites offer the same price . The difference comes in the extras like onboard credit, free specialty dinners, free gratuities, or bonus miles.

The exception in this example was Cruise.com, which offered a savings of $50 on the price of the cruise. However, some of the extras offered by other sites could be worth more than that, so it’s always a good idea to price your cruise on multiple websites before booking.

Bottom Line: The base cost of a cruise is generally the same across most websites. The big difference comes in the extras — onboard credit, specialty dinners, cash-back, or bonus miles. 

No matter where you book your cruise, you’ll be paying the same base price 9 times out of 10. Even though a website might be offering “the best prices” or a “50% discount,” when you actually look at the numbers they’ll usually be the same as every other website.

To get a great deal, you’ll need to look for bonuses that a particular website is offering, such as onboard credit, free specialty dinners, cash-back, or bonus airline miles.

The higher the room category you’re booking, the more bonuses you’ll be able to get. Keep in mind that lots of the bonuses you may see advertised won’t kick in unless you book a balcony stateroom or a suite. Cashback and onboard spending bonuses are generally tied to your stateroom level as well which means you’re not going to get anywhere near the amount advertised if you’re booking an interior or ocean-view cabin.

No matter where you book your cruise, be sure to check out our post with cruise tips and a downloadable packing guide !

Frequently Asked Questions

How do you get the best deals on cruises.

To get the best deals on a cruise, it’s important to know which website is offering the most bonuses. The base price of your cruise will be the same from website to website 9 times out of 10, so you’ll need to find the website that’s offering the best bonuses like onboard credit or free specialty dinners.

Is it better to book directly with the cruise line?

Surprisingly, you’ll usually get a better deal when you book your cruise through an OTA (think Cruise.com, Expedia, or United Cruises). When you book through these types of sites you’ll get any deals that are being offered directly by the cruise line plus any extras offered by the OTA.

Is it better to book cruises last minute?

While you can find some great deals on last-minute cruises, it’s not a guarantee. If you have any preference about your cabin type or location, you’ll want to book as early as possible to make sure you get exactly what you want. If you’re traveling with a group and want to book cabins that are next door to each other, you’ll also want to book ahead of time. However, if you’re super flexible and don’t care what type of cabin you’re in, where it’s located, or even what cruise you’re on, you can often find some good deals at the last minute.

What is the best website for booking cruises?

Unfortunately, there’s no one site that always offers the best cruise deals. Most of the OTAs like CheapCaribbean.com, Cruises.com, or Priceline offer the same prices. The difference usually comes when you factor in extras like onboard credit or free gratuities.

Was this page helpful?

About Katie Seemann

Katie has been in the points and miles game since 2015 and started her own blog in 2016. She’s been freelance writing since then and her work has been featured in publications like Travel + Leisure, Forbes Advisor, and Fortune Recommends.

INSIDERS ONLY: UP PULSE ™

Deluxe Travel Provided by UP Pulse

Get the  latest travel tips, crucial news, flight & hotel deal alerts...

Plus — expert strategies to maximize your points & miles by joining our (free) newsletter.

We respect your privacy . This site is protected by reCAPTCHA. Google's  privacy policy   and  terms of service   apply.

Related Posts

How to Use the Cathay Pacific Asia Miles iShop to Earn More Miles

UP's Bonus Valuation

This bonus value is an estimated valuation  calculated by UP after analyzing redemption options, transfer partners, award availability and how much UP would pay to buy these points.

This is the announcement bar for Poornima to test the Close Button.  It will expire May 31 2024.

  • Pre-Cruise FAQ
  • Onboard FAQ
  • Post-Cruise FAQ
  • Cruisetours FAQ
  • Special Offers Sign Up
  • Cruise Deals

You have been logged out

Your window will update in 5 secs

The Easy Way to Book Flights for Your Cruise

Enjoy customized suggestions based on when and where you sail, low prices with flexible fares and the reassurance that we'll get you to the ship..

Already Booked?   Book EZair Flights in Cruise Personalizer

Not Yet Booked? Getting flight quotes is simple: 1.  Find a Cruise  2. Select "Cruise Details" 3. Select "Flight Quotes"

easy travel & cruise

Flights That Fit Your Cruise

Get personalized suggestions based on when and where you sail.

easy travel & cruise

Low Fares on Flights

Access fares lower than most public prices. We pass the exclusive savings we enjoy because of the high volume of flights we sell on to you. See for yourself!

easy travel & cruise

Flexibility to Change Flights 1

Cancel flexible airfare up to 45 days prior to departure with no fees. Plus, book flights now with no amount due until cruise final payment.

easy travel & cruise

Same Day Late Arrival Protection

Rest easy that you'll make your cruise if flights are delayed or canceled on the day of travel and get home if you miss flights because of your cruise or transfer.

We're here to help!

Getting flight quotes or booking flights is easy, but if you need help  contact us  or your Travel Advisor.

Our En Route Desk provides 24/7 support to ensure your air travel is as worry-free as your cruise.

Booked Guests:

1 No charge penalty until 45 days prior to departure for Flexible fares only. Restricted fares are non-refundable and must be paid in full at the time of booking.

Seat assignments are not guaranteed and are subject to change without notice due to schedule changes, equipment changes or other unforeseen circumstances. Princess has no control over seat assignments, and any changes are at the discretion of the airline. We recommend that guests contact the airline(s) directly, once you receive your air notification, to request specific seats.

Frequently Asked Questions

IMAGE OF A SHIP WITH A CARNIVAL FUNNEL

Easy Access Travel - Special needs of disabled travelers

easy travel & cruise

Accessible Cruising

Dedicated to meeting the special needs of disabled & mature travelers.

Easy Access Travel Specializes in Accessible Cruise Vacations and Packaged Land Tours for Persons with Physical Disabilities. Consider a Cruise for your next Family Reunion. A Cruise will meet the needs of everyone in your group, a family member with a disability, seniors, active adults, teenagers, children and toddlers.

Cruise on Six Star Luxury Liners!

Indulge on decadent food prepared by top chefs

Experience impeccable service and pampering

Enjoy overnight stays in ports around the world

Sail Away on the New Mega Ships!

The opportunities exist, the choice is yours… we have the knowledge and know how to make it happen for you. the time is now… contact easy access travel and start planning your dream trip.

Call us today 951-202-2208 to book your trip!

Accessible Land Trip to Portugal 2024

Accessible Land Trip to Portugal 2024

Accessible South Africa 2024

Accessible South Africa 2024

Accessible Israel 2022

Accessible Israel 2022

Don’t let disability or aging stop you

LOVE TO TRAVEL? Don’t let disability or aging stop you

easy travel & cruise

NCL BLISS Review

Your Email*

Your Message*

Cruise Planners Easy Access Travel

We are part of Cruise Planners and can offer amazing travel deals. Baby Boomer & Multi-Generational Travel is our Specialty. Let us use our Special Needs Travel Expertise to enhance your next trip. Belong to a group? We can customize a Group Cruise or Land Trip for your next event!

Sign up to get interesting news and updates delivered to your inbox.

Sign Up Now

Easy Access Travel

7120 Ponte Vedra Drive Frisco, TX 75036 Phone: 951-202-2208

Memberships

FinanceBuzz

FinanceBuzz

16 Surprising Reasons Cruises Are Great for Budget Travelers

Posted: August 25, 2023 | Last updated: August 25, 2023

<p> When you really need a vacation but are also trying to <a href="https://financebuzz.com/lazy-money-moves-55mp?utm_source=msn&utm_medium=feed&synd_slide=1&synd_postid=13100&synd_backlink_title=keep+more+money+in+your+bank+account&synd_backlink_position=1&synd_slug=lazy-money-moves-55mp">keep more money in your bank account</a>, a cruise may be the perfect solution.</p><p>Cruises are one of the best options if you're looking for a full vacation package, no matter what kind of traveler you are.</p> <p> Here are some compelling reasons why cruises can truly be the most fulfilling and affordable vacation experience you can have out there.</p> <p>  <a href="https://financebuzz.com/top-travel-credit-cards?utm_source=msn&utm_medium=feed&synd_slide=1&synd_postid=13100&synd_backlink_title=Compare+the+best+travel+credit+cards+for+nearly+free+travel&synd_backlink_position=2&synd_slug=top-travel-credit-cards">Compare the best travel credit cards for nearly free travel</a>  </p>

When you really need a vacation but are also trying to keep more money in your bank account , a cruise may be the perfect solution.

Cruises are one of the best options if you're looking for a full vacation package, no matter what kind of traveler you are.

Here are some compelling reasons why cruises can truly be the most fulfilling and affordable vacation experience you can have out there.

Compare the best travel credit cards for nearly free travel

<p> There are amazing cruises available for travelers on all sorts of budgets, not just for those who <a href="https://financebuzz.com/top-signs-of-financial-fitness?utm_source=msn&utm_medium=feed&synd_slide=2&synd_postid=13100&synd_backlink_title=do+better+financially&synd_backlink_position=3&synd_slug=top-signs-of-financial-fitness-2">do better financially</a>. </p><p>Some cruises even offer all-inclusive packages that come out to around $100 a night per person (or less). </p><p>You’re likely to find great deals any time of year, particularly if you live near a port, so shopping around for bargains is often as simple as a quick search online.</p><p>  <p class=""><a href="https://financebuzz.com/extra-newsletter-signup-testimonials-synd?utm_source=msn&utm_medium=feed&synd_slide=2&synd_postid=13100&synd_backlink_title=Get+expert+advice+on+making+more+money+-+sent+straight+to+your+inbox.&synd_backlink_position=4&synd_slug=extra-newsletter-signup-testimonials-synd">Get expert advice on making more money - sent straight to your inbox.</a></p>  </p>

Bargains are easy to find

There are amazing cruises available for travelers on all sorts of budgets, not just for those who do better financially . 

Some cruises even offer all-inclusive packages that come out to around $100 a night per person (or less). 

You’re likely to find great deals any time of year, particularly if you live near a port, so shopping around for bargains is often as simple as a quick search online.

Get expert advice on making more money - sent straight to your inbox.

<p> If you’re planning to hit more than one destination on your vacation, a cruise is a great way to avoid unpacking, re-packing, and lugging a suitcase around from spot to spot. </p> <p> When you cruise, you’ll unpack your bags just once and be able to enjoy all each destination has to offer without the hassle of hotel hopping. Cruisers also have the benefit of only having to check in and check out once. </p>

Multiple destinations without hotel hopping

If you’re planning to hit more than one destination on your vacation, a cruise is a great way to avoid unpacking, re-packing, and lugging a suitcase around from spot to spot.

When you cruise, you’ll unpack your bags just once and be able to enjoy all each destination has to offer without the hassle of hotel hopping. Cruisers also have the benefit of only having to check in and check out once.

<p> From a weekend getaway to a months-long voyage around the world, there’s no shortage of options when it comes to choosing the cruise that’s right for your situation and budget. The shorter, budget-friendly option may cost you $200 or less. </p><p>Sure there are other options like a five-month trip around the world that can cost tens of thousands of dollars or even up to nearly $100,000 depending on the cruise line. </p> <p>  <p class=""><a href="https://financebuzz.com/top-no-interest-credit-cards?utm_source=msn&utm_medium=feed&synd_slide=4&synd_postid=13100&synd_backlink_title=Pay+no+interest+until+nearly+2025+with+these+credit+cards&synd_backlink_position=5&synd_slug=top-no-interest-credit-cards">Pay no interest until nearly 2025 with these credit cards</a></p>  </p>

Cruise lengths for everyone

From a weekend getaway to a months-long voyage around the world, there’s no shortage of options when it comes to choosing the cruise that’s right for your situation and budget. The shorter, budget-friendly option may cost you $200 or less. 

Sure there are other options like a five-month trip around the world that can cost tens of thousands of dollars or even up to nearly $100,000 depending on the cruise line.

Pay no interest until nearly 2025 with these credit cards

<p> One of the big sellers with cruise ships is that there really is something for everyone — a big perk if you don’t always see eye-to-eye on itineraries with the group you’re traveling with. </p> <p> On a cruise, you can spend the day sunbathing by a pool, climb a rock wall, choose from an array of dining options, see a show, hit the gym, then check out a karaoke bar — all in one day and all for one price! </p>

An eclectic array of onboard activities

One of the big sellers with cruise ships is that there really is something for everyone — a big perk if you don’t always see eye-to-eye on itineraries with the group you’re traveling with.

On a cruise, you can spend the day sunbathing by a pool, climb a rock wall, choose from an array of dining options, see a show, hit the gym, then check out a karaoke bar — all in one day and all for one price! 

<p> Cruises are like an all-inclusive vacation to the extreme. Packages often include lodging, unlimited dining access, a drinks package, access to amenities, entertainment, and more. </p> <p> In addition to taking away the stress of planning all parts of a vacation, the all-inclusive nature of cruises often makes them a much cheaper option than the standard vacation. </p>

It’s an all-in-one deal

Cruises are like an all-inclusive vacation to the extreme. Packages often include lodging, unlimited dining access, a drinks package, access to amenities, entertainment, and more.

In addition to taking away the stress of planning all parts of a vacation, the all-inclusive nature of cruises often makes them a much cheaper option than the standard vacation.

<p> As long as you are OK with traveling to the port, you can embark on cruises that travel all over the world — and this isn’t limited to the super pricey voyages <em>around</em> the world either.  </p> <p> Whether you are looking to dock at a few Caribbean islands, explore the Mediterranean, or cruise around the Maldives and Sri Lanka, you can find a package that meets your needs.  </p> <p> <strong>Pro Tip:</strong> If you have to fly to the port your cruise sails from, you can <a href="https://financebuzz.com/top-travel-credit-cards?utm_source=msn&utm_medium=feed&synd_slide=7&synd_postid=13100&synd_backlink_title=earn+travel+rewards&synd_backlink_position=6&synd_slug=top-travel-credit-cards">earn travel rewards</a> from your trip with the right travel credit cards.  </p>

There are cruises all over the world

As long as you are OK with traveling to the port, you can embark on cruises that travel all over the world — and this isn’t limited to the super pricey voyages around the world either.

Whether you are looking to dock at a few Caribbean islands, explore the Mediterranean, or cruise around the Maldives and Sri Lanka, you can find a package that meets your needs.

Pro Tip: If you have to fly to the port your cruise sails from, you can earn travel rewards from your trip with the right travel credit cards.

<p> Many people choose to honeymoon aboard cruises — and some even choose to get married on them. The sun, salty air, and dark, quiet nights at sea can create a delightfully romantic setting for couples.</p> <p> Plus, there’s no pressure to find a top restaurant to impress your sweetie since there will be plenty to choose from on board.  </p><p class="">  <p class=""><a href="https://financebuzz.com/manage-money-retirement-with-500000?utm_source=msn&utm_medium=feed&synd_slide=8&synd_postid=13100&synd_backlink_title=9+things+you+need+to+know+before+retiring+with+%24500%2C000&synd_backlink_position=7&synd_slug=manage-money-retirement-with-500000">9 things you need to know before retiring with $500,000</a></p>  </p>

It can be romantic

Many people choose to honeymoon aboard cruises — and some even choose to get married on them. The sun, salty air, and dark, quiet nights at sea can create a delightfully romantic setting for couples.

Plus, there’s no pressure to find a top restaurant to impress your sweetie since there will be plenty to choose from on board.

9 things you need to know before retiring with $500,000

<p> Cruises can be great for traveling with the whole family. There are plenty of activities for kids of all ages — from pools and basketball courts to arcades and kid-friendly shows and restaurants </p> <p> There’s such an eclectic array of activities, that parents whose children are old enough to hang out alone for a while may be able to sneak away for a romantic dinner or walk on the beach.  </p>

It’s also great for families

Cruises can be great for traveling with the whole family. There are plenty of activities for kids of all ages — from pools and basketball courts to arcades and kid-friendly shows and restaurants

There’s such an eclectic array of activities, that parents whose children are old enough to hang out alone for a while may be able to sneak away for a romantic dinner or walk on the beach.

<p> On a cruise, you’re all in it together so it’s easy to socialize and make friends to meet up with later in the trip or even at one of the bars on board for a nightcap.  </p> <p> Many cruises also organize events for people looking for friends, or even dates, to link up on board.  </p> <p>  <p><a href="https://financebuzz.com/southwest-booking-secrets-55mp?utm_source=msn&utm_medium=feed&synd_slide=10&synd_postid=13100&synd_backlink_title=7+Nearly+Secret+Things+to+Do+If+You+Fly+Southwest&synd_backlink_position=8&synd_slug=southwest-booking-secrets-55mp">7 Nearly Secret Things to Do If You Fly Southwest</a></p>  </p>

Socializing is easy

On a cruise, you’re all in it together so it’s easy to socialize and make friends to meet up with later in the trip or even at one of the bars on board for a nightcap.

Many cruises also organize events for people looking for friends, or even dates, to link up on board.

7 Nearly Secret Things to Do If You Fly Southwest

<p> Because all the basics of your vacation are taken care of on a cruise, it leaves a lot of time to simply kick back and relax.  </p> <p> Plus, on most cruises, there are plenty of amenities to help you find your zen no matter how you like to kick back — from hot tubs and spas to poolside bars and lounges.  </p>

Plenty of space to relax

Because all the basics of your vacation are taken care of on a cruise, it leaves a lot of time to simply kick back and relax.

Plus, on most cruises, there are plenty of amenities to help you find your zen no matter how you like to kick back — from hot tubs and spas to poolside bars and lounges.

<p> When you visit a new city, navigating shows and entertainment options can be a huge hassle, but on a cruise, it’s all taken care of for you. Many ships have live bands, theaters, comedians, dancers, and the like. Entertainment options really run the gamut.</p> <p>Most cruises typically also have entertainment options just for kids so parents never have to worry about the little ones getting bored.  </p>

Lots of entertainment

When you visit a new city, navigating shows and entertainment options can be a huge hassle, but on a cruise, it’s all taken care of for you. Many ships have live bands, theaters, comedians, dancers, and the like. Entertainment options really run the gamut.

Most cruises typically also have entertainment options just for kids so parents never have to worry about the little ones getting bored.

<p> For an extra fee, those looking to indulge in a little me time can often schedule as many spa services as they’d like — from facials to full-body massages and even mani-pedis. </p> <p class="">  <p class=""><a href="https://financebuzz.com/top-cash-back-credit-cards?utm_source=msn&utm_medium=feed&synd_slide=13&synd_postid=13100&synd_backlink_title=Earn+up+to+5%25+cash+back+when+you+shop+with+these+leading+credit+cards&synd_backlink_position=9&synd_slug=top-cash-back-credit-cards">Earn up to 5% cash back when you shop with these leading credit cards</a></p>  </p>

Spa services are often available

For an extra fee, those looking to indulge in a little me time can often schedule as many spa services as they’d like — from facials to full-body massages and even mani-pedis.

Earn up to 5% cash back when you shop with these leading credit cards

<p> An all-you-can-eat buffet may not sound like the ideal situation for the health-conscious, but modern cruises have plenty of healthy eating options, as well as full health clubs on board.  </p> <p> Royal Caribbean, for example, offers workout classes and a full gym for those who want to keep up their routines while out at sea.  </p>

Healthy dining options and gyms

An all-you-can-eat buffet may not sound like the ideal situation for the health-conscious, but modern cruises have plenty of healthy eating options, as well as full health clubs on board.

Royal Caribbean, for example, offers workout classes and a full gym for those who want to keep up their routines while out at sea.

<p> There’s a cruise available for every budget — and travelers can choose to skip out or add as much as they want based on how much they’d like to spend.  </p> <p> Those shooting for a cheaper trip can opt out of extra services like a drinks package or spa privileges and can even request a cheaper cabin (one without a balcony, for example).</p>

Budget options are available

There’s a cruise available for every budget — and travelers can choose to skip out or add as much as they want based on how much they’d like to spend.

Those shooting for a cheaper trip can opt out of extra services like a drinks package or spa privileges and can even request a cheaper cabin (one without a balcony, for example).

<p> Many people love cruises for the same reasons they love all-inclusive resorts. The bonus of boarding a ship, however, is that you don’t have to stay in one place.  </p> <p> You get all the convenience of an all-inclusive — entertainment, amenities on board, food, and nightlife.  </p> <p> But you also have the advantage of traveling to a new destination or several different destinations.  </p>

Convenience, convenience, convenience

Many people love cruises for the same reasons they love all-inclusive resorts. The bonus of boarding a ship, however, is that you don’t have to stay in one place.

You get all the convenience of an all-inclusive — entertainment, amenities on board, food, and nightlife.

But you also have the advantage of traveling to a new destination or several different destinations.

<p> Finding a great place to eat or a nice bar to grab a few drinks can be stressful on vacation — particularly if you’ve never visited the destination before.  </p> <p> A cruise takes all the guesswork out of drinking and dining plans, not to mention you <a href="https://financebuzz.com/supplement-income-55mp?utm_source=msn&utm_medium=feed&synd_slide=17&synd_postid=13100&synd_backlink_title=eliminate+some+money+stress&synd_backlink_position=10&synd_slug=supplement-income-55mp">eliminate some money stress</a> when deciding what to get based on prices. </p><p>Once it's all included, the biggest decision you’ll have to make is if you want to hit the buffet or make it a steak house night.  </p> <p>  <p class=""><a href="https://financebuzz.com/seniors-throw-money-away-tp?utm_source=msn&utm_medium=feed&synd_slide=17&synd_postid=13100&synd_backlink_title=8+ways+seniors+are+throwing+away+money&synd_backlink_position=11&synd_slug=seniors-throw-money-away-tp">8 ways seniors are throwing away money</a></p>  </p>

Great restaurants and bars

Finding a great place to eat or a nice bar to grab a few drinks can be stressful on vacation — particularly if you’ve never visited the destination before.

A cruise takes all the guesswork out of drinking and dining plans, not to mention you eliminate some money stress  when deciding what to get based on prices. 

Once it's all included, the biggest decision you’ll have to make is if you want to hit the buffet or make it a steak house night.

8 ways seniors are throwing away money

<p> Booking a cruise vacation can be an incredible and financially-savvy option for travelers of all sorts — from large families to young couples to those <a href="https://financebuzz.com/retire-early-quiz?utm_source=msn&utm_medium=feed&synd_slide=18&synd_postid=13100&synd_backlink_title=planning+for+retirement&synd_backlink_position=12&synd_slug=retire-early-quiz">planning for retirement</a>.  </p> <p> Many solo travelers enjoy the convenience and endless entertainment options on cruises as well. </p> <p> Before you book, consider how much money and time you want to spend on a cruise. Going in with intentions will make the (already easy) booking process that much simpler.  </p> <p>  <p class=""><b>More from FinanceBuzz:</b></p> <ul> <li><a href="https://www.financebuzz.com/supplement-income-55mp?utm_source=msn&utm_medium=feed&synd_slide=18&synd_postid=13100&synd_backlink_title=7+things+to+do+if+you%E2%80%99re+barely+scraping+by+financially.&synd_backlink_position=13&synd_slug=supplement-income-55mp">7 things to do if you’re barely scraping by financially.</a></li> <li><a href="https://financebuzz.com/make-extra-money?utm_source=msn&utm_medium=feed&synd_slide=18&synd_postid=13100&synd_backlink_title=12+legit+ways+to+earn+extra+cash&synd_backlink_position=14&synd_slug=ways-to-make-extra-money">12 legit ways to earn extra cash</a><a href="https://financebuzz.com/ways-to-make-extra-money?utm_source=msn&utm_medium=feed&synd_slide=18&synd_postid=13100&synd_backlink_title=.&synd_backlink_position=15&synd_slug=ways-to-make-extra-money">.</a></li> <li><a href="https://financebuzz.com/offer/bypass/637?source=%2Flatest%2Fmsn%2Fslideshow%2Ffeed%2F&aff_id=1006&aff_sub=msn&aff_sub2=&aff_sub3=&aff_sub4=feed&aff_sub5=%7Bimpressionid%7D&aff_click_id=&aff_unique1=%7Baff_unique1%7D&aff_unique2=&aff_unique3=&aff_unique4=&aff_unique5=%7Baff_unique5%7D&rendered_slug=/latest/msn/slideshow/feed/&contentblockid=984&contentblockversionid=17466&ml_sort_id=&sorted_item_id=&widget_type=&cms_offer_id=637&keywords=&utm_source=msn&utm_medium=feed&synd_slide=18&synd_postid=13100&synd_backlink_title=Can+you+retire+early%3F+Take+this+quiz+and+find+out.&synd_backlink_position=16&synd_slug=offer/bypass/637">Can you retire early? Take this quiz and find out.</a></li> <li><a href="https://financebuzz.com/extra-newsletter-signup-testimonials-synd?utm_source=msn&utm_medium=feed&synd_slide=18&synd_postid=13100&synd_backlink_title=9+simple+ways+to+make+up+to+an+extra+%24200%2Fday&synd_backlink_position=17&synd_slug=extra-newsletter-signup-testimonials-synd">9 simple ways to make up to an extra $200/day</a></li> </ul>  </p>

Bottom line

Booking a cruise vacation can be an incredible and financially-savvy option for travelers of all sorts — from large families to young couples to those planning for retirement .

Many solo travelers enjoy the convenience and endless entertainment options on cruises as well.

Before you book, consider how much money and time you want to spend on a cruise. Going in with intentions will make the (already easy) booking process that much simpler.

More from FinanceBuzz:

  • 7 things to do if you’re barely scraping by financially.
  • 12 legit ways to earn extra cash .
  • Can you retire early? Take this quiz and find out.
  • 9 simple ways to make up to an extra $200/day

More for You

Caitlin Clark breaks unbelievable WNBA record in her debut with the Indiana Fever

Caitlin Clark breaks unbelievable WNBA record in her debut with the Indiana Fever

‘I’m weary of repeating myself’: How do I deal with rich friends who take $22,000 cruises and book $800 hotel rooms? Prices are crazy enough already.

‘I’m weary of repeating myself’: How do I deal with rich friends who take $22,000 cruises and book $800 hotel rooms? Prices are crazy enough already.

Stranger Things season 5: everything we know so far

Stranger Things season 5: everything we know so far

7 CDs You Probably Owned, Threw Out and Now Are Worth Bank

7 CDs You Probably Owned, Threw Out and Now Are Worth Bank

Beyoncé Is a Bombshell in a Cutout Dress

Beyoncé Is a Total Bombshell in a Ruched Dress With a Gaping Bust Cutout

Family Buys $2500 Old YACHT and Renovates it Back to New | Start to Finish by @SailingMelody

Family Buys $2500 Old YACHT and Renovates it Back to New | Start to Finish by @SailingMelody

I moved from the US to Ireland. Here are 11 things that surprised me most.

I moved from the US to Ireland. Here are 11 things that surprised me most.

How rare are redheads?

12 Strange Facts About Redheads You Never Knew

See Kevin Costner in new trailer for his Western epic, 'Horizon'

See Kevin Costner in new trailer for his Western epic, 'Horizon'

Ocasio-Cortez says Trump win would result in ‘grave impacts’ on democracy

Ocasio-Cortez hits back at Fetterman: ‘I stand up to bullies’

Christina Chang, Richard Schiff, and Freddie Highmore star in

“The Good Doctor” cast says goodbye ahead of finale: 'The legacy of the show will be hope and heart'

Have We Already Found Evidence of Dyson Spheres?

A Study Suggests We Found Potential Evidence of Dyson Spheres—and Alien Civilizations

A 24-year-old spent $140,000 buying and converting a Mercedes van. Take a look inside the luxury home on wheels.

A 24-year-old spent $140,000 buying and converting a Mercedes van. Take a look inside the luxury home on wheels.

easy travel & cruise

“I thought he got out of the way” - Vince Carter wasn’t aware he jumped over 7’2” Frederic Weis

Vladimir Solovyov

Putin Ally Vows Two NATO Capital Cities 'Will Also Be Ours'

Biscuits on baking tray

10 Canned Biscuit Hacks You'll Wish You Knew Sooner

Controversial Netflix show watched almost 14 million times despite backlash

Controversial Netflix show watched almost 14 million times despite backlash

Proactive Step: Get Liability Insurance

7 Things the Middle Class Won’t Be Able To Afford in the Next 5 Years

Nuns at Benedictine College respond to Harrison Butker’s controversial speech

Nuns at Benedictine College respond to Harrison Butker’s controversial speech

Did Physicists Find the Ever-Elusive Glueball?

Scientists May Have Found a Particle Made of Pure Force

Here are the documents and costs to keep in mind when planning a cruise

easy travel & cruise

As I made plans this summer to take a cruise, I worked my way through my pre-travel checklist. I booked my flights, researched ground transportation options and selected a hotel for the night before boarding.

But I had yet to tick one important box: renewing my expired passport .

I had not traveled internationally since the pandemic began and needed a deadline to motivate me, so shortly before my  sailing from the Netherlands to New York , I filled out the application, paid the fees, and did a quick photo shoot at my local Walgreens.

Passports are just one of the documents travelers may need when taking a cruise, which can add to the overall cost of a trip. Here's what travelers should have on hand and what costs they might encounter before and during their trip:

Inconsistent Wi-Fi and ocean views:  What it's like to work from a transatlantic cruise

Learn more: Best travel insurance

Sailing with children: 11 cruises you need to take while the kids are still young

What documents will travelers need to board a cruise?

The U.S. State Department recommends cruise passengers sailing from America have a passport.

U.S. citizens booked on closed-loop cruises – those that start and end at the same U.S. port – can enter the country with a government-issued photo ID and birth certificate instead, but the State Department encourages having a passport "in case of an emergency, such as an unexpected medical air evacuation or the ship docking at an alternate port," according to its website . Cruise lines may also require it.

Denise Jewell, owner of Opulence Travel Agency, also recommends having a passport, even on closed-loop cruises, in case you don't make it back to the ship in time during a stop.

"It'll be much easier to deal with the locals if you have a passport as opposed to a birth certificate," Jewell said.

If travelers need to apply for or renew a passport, "the sooner you get started the better," said Danny Genung, CEO of travel agency Harr Travel. He suggested beginning that process as soon as you book your trip, even if it's a year in advance.

"This is one of the big pain points and stress points of travel if you wait too long," Genung said.

Even travelers who have procrastinated, though, may not be out of luck. I mailed my passport renewal application on Sept. 7 and paid about $208 in fees overall, including expedited service. I received my new passport on Oct. 3, about two weeks before my trip.

What costs will travelers encounter while taking a cruise?

Many costs associated with a cruise are included in the fare travelers pay when they book. "I think one of the things I would point out is, spending money on a cruise ship is a choice," said Genung, noting that he has been on many cruises and spent nothing additional except on gratuities. However, with mainstream cruise lines, there are generally some key expenses to keep in mind (on luxury lines, many of these costs are likely to be included in the fare).

►  Taxes, fees and port expenses : In addition to the fare, travelers must pay taxes, fees and port expenses, said Brigitte Feinberg, a travel adviser and independent affiliate of Avenue Two Travel. Those can vary based on the specifics of your trip.

► Gratuities: On mainstream lines such as Royal Caribbean International, Feinberg said, gratuities are automatically added to travelers' bills on a per person, per day basis. 

Those prices can vary. Royal Caribbean  charges $16 per guest each day staying in non-suite staterooms, and $18.50 for those in suites, while Carnival Cruise Line applies a $14.50 daily charge per passenger for non-suite rooms, and $16.50 for guests in suites, according to their websites.

Marvel Day at Sea returns: Disney Cruise Line event is back with more superheroes, villains than ever

Cruise line guide: Traveling with family, or maybe looking for adventure? There's a cruise line for that

Guests can prepay those gratuities, so they "don't have to worry about that bill at the end of the cruise," Feinberg said, or pay them as part of the final bill. Passengers can also adjust the gratuities up or down, though Feinberg does not recommend the latter.

She added that some guests also bring cash to tip crew members directly who "went above and beyond" during the trip.

► Some food and drinks:  While much of the food is included on mainstream lines, some restaurants and items may cost extra.

On my October Holland America Line cruise, I visited specialty restaurants with prices ranging from $19 to $49 per person, plus an 18% gratuity.

Lines such as Carnival and Norwegian Cruise Line also include basic drinks like iced tea and regular coffee while charging for others. Genung said, "in a lot of cases there's good value" in pre-purchasing specialty dining or beverage packages.

► Shore excursions:  On mainstream cruise lines, Feinberg said, excursions are not included either. "Yes, the room's only $300 for a week, but by the time you're all said and done you're going to be spending a lot more than that," she said.

She said excursions can run from $50 to hundreds of dollars per person.

Most cruise lines have promotional sales on excursions and other packages before the cruise, Genung said, which can offer "significant savings," particularly for families traveling together.

"I have two little kiddos myself, and it's a lot more expensive to travel than when it was just my wife and I," he said. "So, you know, when you multiply an unexpected cost times four, or five or six, it gets pretty exponential."

► Wi-Fi:  Many cruise lines charge extra for Wi-Fi, but the price may depend on your needs.

Norwegian Cruise Line, for instance, sells both basic and premium options for one, two, and four devices, starting at $25.50 per day if guests purchase online and about $30 per day if they purchase on board, according to its website . The line also sells a 250-minute option.

Genung noted that it is almost always cheaper to purchase the internet prior to boarding than it is after getting on the ship.

► Laundry:  Depending on the length of the sailing, travelers may run out of clean clothes as I did on my October transatlantic cruise.

Like many mainstream lines,Holland America offered laundry services with several options, to choose from. I picked the Laundry By the Bag package, which cost $30 for as many clothes as I could fit in a bag the line placed in my stateroom closet.

New cruise ship: MSC Cruises will sail World America from the US in 2025

Cruise lines change COVID-19 rules: Royal Caribbean, Disney Cruise Line further lift requirements

There was also an Unlimited Pressing package for $75 and an Unlimited Laundry option for $135, including pressing, both for the duration of the sailing, according to an info sheet in my stateroom.

Feinberg noted that some cruise lines also have laundry rooms where guests can wash and dry their own clothes, such as Carnival, which charges $3.50 for each washer load, and $3.50 per dryer load, according to its website .

  • 1-877-932-4259
  • My Account Hello Credits My Account Log out

Holland America Line Opens Bookings for Four 2025-2026 ‘Legendary Voyages’ Including New 28-Day Cruise to Alaska and Hawaii  

The cruises sail from North American homeports so guests can see the world without long-haul air.

Seattle, Wash., Dec. 13, 2023 — Holland America Line opened bookings for four “ Legendary Voyages ” offered in 2025 and early 2026. Ranging from 28 to 56 days, these longer cruises touch three distinct regions and all sail roundtrip or from/to a North American homeport, making it easy for travelers to visit distant destinations around the world without a long flight.

A new “ Glaciers & Volcanos: Alaska to Hawaii ” Legendary Voyage heads to the 49th and 50th states, a rare combination in one cruise and two bucket-list destinations for travelers and “state collectors.” Tales of the South Pacific” and “Hawaii, Tahiti & Marquesas” deeply explore the islands of the South Pacific, while the popular “Amazon Explorer” returns to journey down the largest river in the world by volume (and second longest after the Nile River).

“Our Legendary Voyages have proven to be popular with our guests since launching this year, and we’ve worked to craft more of these longer itineraries as we plan 2026 and beyond to meet the demand,” said Gus Antorcha, president, Holland America Line. “We’re excited about the new ‘Glaciers and Volcanos: Alaska to Hawaii’ cruise that visits Alaska and Hawaii, two regions that are sought after but rarely offered together. And the chance to board a ship in New York City and explore the Amazon is a rare and legendary opportunity.”

The four Legendary Voyages are offered on different Holland America Line ships — Nieuw Amsterdam, Volendam, Westerdam and Zaandam — providing a unique premium, mid-sized ship experience for each cruise. Guests can embark in a variety of North American homeports, including New York, Seattle and San Diego.

28-Day ‘ Glaciers & Volcanos: Alaska to Hawaii ʼ Legendary Voyage

·       Departs Aug. 31, 2025; sails roundtrip Seattle aboard Westerdam.

·       Guests can Embark Sept. 1 at Vancouver for a 27-day journey (debark Seattle).

·       Five ports in Alaska: Sitka, Seward, Anchorage, Kodiak and Dutch Harbor.

·       Four ports in Hawaii: Nawiliwili, Honolulu, Kona and Hilo.

·       Overnights at Anchorage and Honolulu.

·       Alaska exploration includes scenic cruising in the Inside Passage, Hubbard Glacier, College Fjord and Prince William Sound.

·       Hawaii features scenic cruising around Kilauea Volcano.

51-Day ‘ Tales of the South Pacific ’ Legendary Voyage

·       Departs Sept. 29, 2025; roundtrip from San Diego aboard Zaandam.

·       Guests can also choose to embark Sept. 24 at Vancouver for a 56-day cruise.

·       25 total calls, including: San Francisco and Avalon in California, five ports in Hawaii, four ports in Fiji, seven calls in French Polynesia, and calls at Kiribati, American Samoa, Samoa, Tonga and the Cook Islands.

·       Overnight calls at Honolulu and Papeete.

30-Day ‘ Amazon Explorer ’ Legendary Voyage

·       Departs Nov. 21, 2025; from New York to Fort Lauderdale aboard Volendam.

·       Guests can also choose to embark Nov. 24 at Fort Lauderdale for a 27-day roundtrip cruise.

·       Six Caribbean Islands: St. Maarten, St. Lucia, Barbados, Trinidad and Tobago, Curaçao and Aruba.

·       Six ports in Brazil: Macapá, Santarém, Boca Da Valeria, Manaus, Parintins and Alter de Chão; plus French Guiana.

·       An overnight at Manaus and a late-night departure from Curaçao.

·       10 days cruising the Amazon River to Manaus and back, including two equator crossings during the river journey.

35-Day ‘ Hawaii, Tahiti & Marquesas ’ Legendary Voyage

·       Departs Feb. 14, 2026; roundtrip San Diego aboard Nieuw Amsterdam

·       Five ports in Hawaii: Nawiliwili, Honolulu, Kahului, Kona and Hilo

·       Pacific Island calls: Fanning Island (Kiribati), Moorea, Raiatea, Papeete, Fakarava and Nuka Hiva.

·       Overnights at Moorea, Raiatea and Papeete; late-night departure from Honolulu.

‘Have It All’ Early Booking Bonus

For a limited time, when guests book one of the four Legendary Voyages with the Have It All premium package, the standard package amenities of shore excursions, specialty dining, a Signature Beverage Package and Surf Wi-Fi are included — plus the added perk of free prepaid Crew Appreciation, along with free upgrades to the Elite Beverage Package and Premium Wi-Fi.

Guests also can take advantage of Holland America Line’s Exclusive Mariner Society Early Booking Bonus. Mariner Society loyalty members can enjoy a $400 onboard credit per stateroom when making a booking for 90 days after these four cruises open for sale.

Beginning cruise-only fares for the four legendary sailings range from US$3,719 to $7,119 per person, double occupancy. Have it All pricing ranges from US$5,399 to $10,479 per person, double occupancy. Taxes, fees and port expenses are additional.  

What is a ‘Legendary Voyage’?

These lengthier cruises, which range from 25 to 59 days, combine the ceremony of Holland America Line’s Grand Voyages while focusing on a singular region. They visit some of the most unique ports while offering guests extended exploration opportunities. Shipboard programming is specially curated to share insights into the history and culture of the destinations visited.

Most of the Legendary Voyages sail roundtrip or to/from a North American homeport, allowing travelers to see the world from their doorstep with a convenient domestic flight and easy embarkation. Legendary Voyages are offered on a variety of the Holland America Line’s perfectly sized ships where guests enjoy the “best of” Grand Voyages on-board programming such as iconic theme parties, memorable sailaways and classic cruise activities to further enhance the experience.

More Legendary Voyages for 2026 will be announced in the future.

For more information about Holland America Line, consult a travel advisor, call 1-877-SAIL HAL (877-724-5425) or visit hollandamerica.com .

IMAGES

  1. Cheapest Cruises 2020

    easy travel & cruise

  2. 19 cruise hacks to make travel easy

    easy travel & cruise

  3. Easy Cruise Articles

    easy travel & cruise

  4. Easy Cruise Life Ship Tour

    easy travel & cruise

  5. Yacht EASYCRUISE I, RENAISSANCE CRUISES

    easy travel & cruise

  6. The Best Cruise Destinations of 2021

    easy travel & cruise

VIDEO

  1. 5 incredibly EASY cruise mistakes to AVOID! 👀🤷‍♂️❌

  2. Travel Planning Made Easy

  3. The ONE Thing Cruise Passengers Absolutely HATE About Cruising (700+ Asked)

  4. TRAVEL/CRUISE Essentials

  5. 5 Easy Cruise Mistakes to Avoid

  6. cabin tour in cruise ship #cruise #cruiselife #explore

COMMENTS

  1. easyCruise.com

    With the latest cruise offers in partnership with Supercruises, easyCruise presents over 18,000 cruises to choose from the world's leading cruise lines, including P&O Cruises, Royal Caribbean International, Seabourn, MSC Cruises, Norwegian Cruise Line, and many more. At easyCruise we are your one stop all-online destination for booking your dream cruise holiday.

  2. Cruises

    Cruises cover the world, taking millions of passengers each year to destinations like the Caribbean, the Bahamas, Alaska, Europe, the Mediterranean and even Antarctica. Cruising offers a tremendous value, with trips that include your lodging, meals and entertainment, all rolled into one. Some cruise lines even offer fully inclusive vacations ...

  3. Find Cheap Cruises & Last Minute Cruise Deals (2024/2025)

    Find affordable cruise deals to popular destinations like Bahamas, Mexico, Hawaii cruises & more. Conveniently find cruise ports out to your favourite destinations. Get cheap cruise deals now!

  4. The Best Ways to Book a Cruise

    Avoya Travel is a family-owned website that matches travelers with a vacation planner based on their preferences. It's the best way to book a cruise using a travel planner because it offers a low ...

  5. Accessible Cruising

    A cruise offers the best possible solution for people with mobility limitations and chronic health problems. The majority of cruise ships now offer excellent wheelchair accessible accommodations in a wide choice of categories (ie: inside, ocean view, veranda, suites). Accessible staterooms are quite spacious with wide entrance and bathroom doors.

  6. Cruise Deals: Best Discount Cruises & Packages

    Find the best cruise deals and vacation sales. Explore our travel packages, last-minute savings, and limited-time offers on discount cruises to over 300+ destinations.

  7. The 9 BEST Websites to Book a Cruise (2023)

    Expedia's easy-to-use cruise search engine generates a useful and well-ordered list of the best cruise deals, without much effort required from the user. Also, Expedia's prices frequently ...

  8. Is easyCruise as cheap and easy as it claims?

    Yes and no. Your cruise fare is ridiculously cheap; we paid $372 for seven nights' double occupancy (that's roughly $27 per person per day) in a windowless cabin. Four people sharing a quad ...

  9. The 17 Best Websites To Book Cruises at the Cheapest Prices

    Kayak is a popular online travel agency but the site doesn't support cruise searches anymore. 5. Priceline. Priceline gained fame from its "Name Your Own Price" feature but has since transformed into a more traditional OTA. In addition to hotels, flights, and rental cars, you can use this site to book cruises, too.

  10. 11 Best First Time Cruise Lines for Every Travel Style

    Below is our guide to the 11 best cruise lines for first-time cruisers of all travel styles. 1. Best Cruise Line Overall for First Timers: Royal Caribbean. Brilliance of the Seas TA Listings Page ...

  11. About Us

    Easy Travel and Cruise is a family owned, award winning, full service travel agency for both international and domestic travel and also a certified Cruise Specialist. We have two wonderful stores located in the rural towns of Nambour and Gympie in Queensland . We are passionate about travel and encourage you to come in and have a coffee, book ...

  12. easyCruise: No frills cruising on the horizon

    Feb 23, 2004. |. NEW YORK -- The inventor of easyJet, the British no-frills airline, is taking his idea to sea with a venture called easyCruise. In the easyCruise world, prices would be low ...

  13. Contact Us

    Easy Travel and Cruise Gympie. 89 Mary Street. Gympie QLD 4570. Get directions. (07) 5482 8388. (07) 5482 8772. [email protected]. Map. Opening hours.

  14. About Us

    EASY ACCESS TRAVEL strives to deliver accurate and honest information by maintaining an excellent relationship with suppliers and colleagues in order to help us plan each person's trip on an individual basis. We spend a lot of our time doing "hands-on" research: taking cruises, doing new ship inspections, visiting hotels and tourist spots ...

  15. Accessible Cruises

    An Alaska Cruise combined with a Land Tour is the ultimate way to experience the beauty and grandeur of Alaska. Easy Access Travel - Special needs of disabled travelers 951-202-2208

  16. Easy Travel and Cruise Gympie

    Easy Travel and Cruise Gympie, Gympie, Queensland. 386 likes · 116 were here. Easy Travel & Cruise is an award winning agent specialising in cruising & fully escorted tours. We can assist with...

  17. How Caribbean cruises offer easy, affordable international travel

    Upcoming Caribbean cruises. Royal Caribbean International's Independence of the Seas ship will sail a four-night Eastern Caribbean itinerary departing Nov. 15. The cruise will sail round-trip ...

  18. Easy Cruising Travel

    Easy Cruising Travel, Magnolia, Texas. 430 likes · 10 talking about this · 1 was here. Easy Cruising Travel is a full service travel agency specializing in cruises. Established 2016

  19. Princess EZair

    The Easy Way to Book Flights for Your Cruise Enjoy customized suggestions based on when and where you sail, low prices with flexible fares and the reassurance that we'll get you to the ship. ... Our En Route Desk provides 24/7 support to ensure your air travel is as worry-free as your cruise. Booked Guests: Visit Cruise Personalizer® to browse ...

  20. Cruises

    LEARN MORE Sail from Sydney or Brisbane for Aussie adventures or to exotic South Pacific Islands. Carnival cruise deals and cruise packages to the most popular destinations. Find great deals and specials on Caribbean, The Bahamas, Alaska, and Mexico cruises.

  21. Liberty Travel: Custom Vacation Packages and Travel Deals

    Key West & Cayman Holiday | Celebrity Constellation. 6 nights. from $1,815. Now Available! Pay Over Time with Affirm. Liberty Travel has partnered with Affirm to offer flexible payment options that allow you to book now and pay over time with no late or hidden fees. When you're ready to book, connect with a consultant and request Affirm as your ...

  22. Easy Travel and Cruise

    We are arguably the most experienced cruise specialists in Australia. Both owners began working on major cruise lines in 1993 and this allowed them to travel the world and soon realise that they wanted to share this amazing way to travel with others. Now, three multi-award winning cruise specialist stores later, their passion for cruising ...

  23. The Ultimate Cruise Packing List: What to Pack for a Cruise in 2024

    When packing for a cruise or any travel for that matter, a sleep mask is always a priority. The adjustable Drowsy sleep mask is made of 100% mulberry silk, completely blocks light and the wide ...

  24. How Booking Connecting Cabins on My Family Cruise Kept Me Sane

    Both Royal Caribbean and Celebrity make it easy to book connecting cabins (Photo: Aaron Saunders) Royal Caribbean is one of the easiest lines to book a connecting cabin on: the line's website ...

  25. Easy Access Travel

    Easy Access Travel Specializes in Accessible Cruise Vacations and Packaged Land Tours for Persons with Physical Disabilities. Consider a Cruise for your next Family Reunion. A Cruise will meet the needs of everyone in your group, a family member with a disability, seniors, active adults, teenagers, children and toddlers.

  26. 16 Surprising Reasons Cruises Are Great for Budget Travelers

    The shorter, budget-friendly option may cost you $200 or less. Sure there are other options like a five-month trip around the world that can cost tens of thousands of dollars or even up to nearly ...

  27. Cruise documents and costs: Here's what to know

    Those prices can vary. Royal Caribbean charges $16 per guest each day staying in non-suite staterooms, and $18.50 for those in suites, while Carnival Cruise Line applies a $14.50 daily charge per ...

  28. Holland America Line Opens Bookings for Four 2025-2026 'Legendary

    The cruises sail from North American homeports so guests can see the world without long-haul air. Seattle, Wash., Dec. 13, 2023 — Holland America Line opened bookings for four "Legendary Voyages" offered in 2025 and early 2026. Ranging from 28 to 56 days, these longer cruises touch three distinct regions and all sail roundtrip or from/to a North American homeport, making it easy for ...

  29. How To Plan A Memorable First-Time Alaska Cruise

    However, peak cruise season means high fares, busier ships, and busier ports. Local produce starts to feature heavily on menus shoreside. Juneau, Alaska, has a spectacular natural setting and is a ...

  30. Vacation Prep Made Easy: Pack & Clean With Me + Beach/Cruise ...

    Hi sweet friends! Today I'm bringing you along as I prep, pack & clean before our vacation. I'll share my favorite cruise/beach essentials, from the perfect ...