low price cruises

Expedia Rewards is now One Key™

Find discount cruise deals.

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

Find your voyage

Best Cruise Deals by Popular Destination

Disney Cruise Line Deals

Cruise Tips & Cruise Packing Guide

Popular cruise destinations.

Departure Ports with Great Cruises Leaving from

San Francisco

Most popular cruise lines.

• Royal Caribbean International

Disney Cruise Line

• Carnival Cruise Lines

• MSC Cruises

• Norwegian Cruise Line

• 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

• 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​
• Cruise Planner
• Book a Flight
• Book a Hotel
• Check-In for My Cruise
• Required Travel Documents
• Make a Payment
• Redeem Cruise Credit
• Update Guest Information
• Beverage Packages​
• Dining Packages​
• Shore Excursions​
• Transportation
• Royal Gifts
• 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

Up to $600 Onboard Credit

+ 60% off second guest, + kids sail free*, the best cruise deals & special offers.

CARIBBEAN CRUISES

STARTING FROM 

europe cruises

ALASKA CRUISES

KIDS SAIL FREE

NEWEST. BOLDEST. BEST.

utopia of the seas

star of the seas

ICON of the seas

up to $600 Onboard Credit on select cruises

Plus 60% off second guest and kids sail free*

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

LAST CALL ON CRUISE DEALS

Score big savings on last minute cruises

SAIL FROM LOS ANGELES

ENSENADA CRUISES

WEEKEND GETAWAYS

SAIL FROM FLORIDA

SAIL FROM GALVESTON

Western Caribbean

GIVE THE GIFT OF ADVENTURE

New Gift Cards Now Available

Vacation Financing

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

  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

CRUISES FROM

CAPE LIBERTY

top cruise destinations 

THE BAHAMAS

THE CARIBBEAN

AMAZING SEASONAL CRUISE DEALS  

SPRING CRUISES

Summer CRUISES

fall CRUISES

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.

Previewing: Promo Dashboard Campaigns

My Personas

Code: ∅.

Destinations

Cruise deals by state.

• Cruise Deals For Seniors
• Past Passenger Cruise Deals
• Top Millitary Cruise Deals
• Cruise Deals For Police
• Cruise Deals For Firefighters & EMTs
• View Our Top 25 Cruise Deals
• Shop For Last Minute Cruises
• AmaWaterways
• American Cruise Lines
• Avalon Waterways
• Carnival Cruise Lines
• Celebrity Cruises
• Celestyal Cruises
• Costa Cruises
• Disney Cruise Line
• Emerald Cruises
• Explora Journeys
• Holland America
• Hurtigruten Expeditions
• MSC Cruises
• Norwegian Cruise Line
• Oceania Cruises
• Pearl Seas Cruises
• Regent Seven Seas
• Royal Caribbean
• Scenic Luxury Cruises & Tours
• Uniworld Boutique River Cruises
• Viking Expeditions
• Viking Ocean
• Viking River
• Virgin Voyages
• Asia and Asia Pacific
•   - Indian Ocean
•     - India
• Australia / New Zealand
•   - Australasia
•     - New Zealand
•     - Tasmania
•   - Australia
•   - Kimberley
• Canary Islands
•   - Bahamas
•   - Bermuda
•     - Atlantic
•   - Caribbean Eastern
•   - Caribbean Southern
•   - Caribbean Western
• Central America
•   - Baja Mexico
•   - Mexican Riviera
•   - Mexico
•   - Eastern Europe
•   - Northern Europe
•     - Baltic Sea (Europe)
•     - British Isles
•     - Iceland
•     - Norway
•   - Southern Europe
•   - Western Europe
• Mediterranean
•   - Central Mediterranean
•   - Eastern Mediterranean
•   - Western Mediterranean
• Middle East
•   - Arabian Gulf
•   - Red Sea
• North America
•   - Alaska
•   - Canada / New England
•     - Canada
•     - New England
•   - Pacific Coastal
•   - The Great Lakes
•   - South Pacific
• Panama Canal
• Repositioning
•   - Transatlantic
• South America
•   - Amazon (South America)
• World Cruise
• Cruise Deals From Florida
• Cruise Deals From New York
• Cruise Deals From California
• Cruise Deals From Texas
• Save with your Future Cruise Credit!
• Last Minute Cruise Deals
• Learn About Us
• E-mail Deals Signup

 Cruise Deal Search

Not all travel agencies are equal, 9,000+ exclusive rates & bonuses, over 250,000 happy customers.

Get Exclusive Savings on AmaWaterways, A Top Rated Premium Cruise Line!

Book now for our Best Price Cruises exclusive onboard credit, fare savings, and prepaid gratuities! Plus Get additional Savings from AmaWaterways!

It’s the Best Sale Ever on Princess! Book by 4/23!

Enjoy up to 35% off and free 3rd and 4th guests on Princess! Plus get our Best Price Cruises exclusive onboard credit and $100 per person reduced deposits!

Exclusive Bonus Sale on Viking River, Ocean & Expedition Cruises!

Book by April 18th for special fares, free or reduced airfare, and $25 deposits! Plus get our Best Price Cruises exclusive savings and onboard credit!

Find Your Next Canary Islands Cruise

• Insides from $369
• Balconies from $719

Deals On Africa Sailings

• Insides from $899
• Balconies from $1939

Our Most Popular Seabourn Cruises

• Suites from $2492

Our Most Popular Iceland Cruises

• Insides from $629
• Balconies from $1149

Find Your Next N/A Cruise

• Insides from $519
• Balconies from $676

Our Most Popular Viking River Cruises

• Outsides from $5999
• Balconies from $5999

Crystal Cruises On Sale Now

• Outsides from $4900
• Balconies from $5200

Deals On Viking Ocean Sailings

• Balconies from $4799
• Suites from $8999

Transatlantic Cruises On Sale Now

• Insides from $456
• Balconies from $767

Our Most Popular Central Mediterranean Cruises

• Outsides from $5799
• Balconies from $4499

Find Your Next AmaWaterways Cruise

• Balconies from $10169

Deals On Windstar Sailings

• Outsides from $2399
• Suites from $2799

Internet Explorer Detected

We've detected that you appear to be using Internet Explorer to access this site. Unfortunately, this site is designed to make use of several modern web technologies and standards that are not supported by Internet Explorer.

For the best user experience, we strongly recommend that you access the internet using a browser that supports modern internet standards such as the latest versions of Microsoft Edge (which is included with Windows 10), Mozilla Firefox, or Google Chrome.

Both Google Chrome and Mozilla Firefox can be downloaded for free at the following links:

• Download Google Chrome
• Download Mozilla Firefox

Alternatively, you may go directly to searching our live online booking engine by following this link

• Search For A Cruise

We appologize for any inconvience that this may have caused.

Your staff at Best Price Cruises & Tours

• Port Overview
• Transportation to the Port
• Uber & Lyft to the Port
• Dropping Off at the Port
• Cruise Parking
• Cruise Hotels
• Hotels with Parking Deals
• Uber & Lyft to the Ports
• Things to Do
• Cozumel Taxi Rates
• Free Things to Do
• Restaurants Near the Cruise Port
• Hotels & Resorts With Day Passes
• Closest Beaches to the Cruise Port
• Tips For Visiting
• Shore Excursions
• Cruise Parking Discounts
• Hotels with Shuttles
• Which Airport Should I Use?
• Transportation to the Ports
• Dropping Off at the Ports
• Fort Lauderdale Airport to Miami
• Inexpensive Hotels
• Hotels near the Port
• Hotels With Shuttles
• Budget Hotels
• Carnival Tips
• Drink Packages
• Specialty Restaurants
• Faster to the Fun
• More Articles
• CocoCay Tips
• Norwegian Tips
• Great Stirrup Cay
• Harvest Caye
• How to Get the Best Cruise Deal
• Best Time to Book a Cruise
• Best Websites to Book a Cruise
• Cruises Under $300
• Cruises Under $500
• Spring Break Cruise Deals
• Summer Cruise Deals
• Alaskan Cruise Deals
• 107 Cruise Secrets & Tips
• Tips for First-Time Cruisers
• What to Pack for a Cruise
• What to Pack (Alaska)
• Packing Checklist
• Cruising with Kids
• Passports & Birth Certificates
• Bringing Alcohol
• Cruising with a Disability
• Duty-Free Shopping
• Cruise Travel Insurance
• Things to Do on a Cruise Ship
• What Not to Do on a Ship
• News & Articles

How to Find Cheap Cruises: The Complete Guide

When it comes to affordability, it’s hard to beat what you get with a cruise. Instead of booking transportation and hotels, then having to shell out more for entertainment, restaurants, and activities on a traditional trip, it’s all included in one price.

The result is a fantastic value for what you get. Even so, there are definitely some cruises that offer a lot better pricing and value than others. If you’re wanting to spend tens of thousands of dollars on a cruise, that’s possible. But it’s also possible to get by spending hundreds on the cheapest cruises … if you know where to look.

After years of searching for cruises — including taking trips that cost as little as $106 per person aboard one of the most popular cruise lines in America — here is exactly what we’ve learned about how to find the cheapest cruises, no matter where you want to sail.

In This Article...

Start Your Cruise Search With An Aggregator Site

If you want to find the cheapest cruise, then it makes sense that you want to search across all the cruise lines. After all, going to a cruise line’s website first and searching there limits you to only their trips.

Instead, any number of sites like Orbitz or AvoyaTravel can search across every line , with the ability to narrow things down by destination, date, and number of nights. As well, you can sort by price to find the absolute lowest fares .

Personally, we like to start a search on these sites and then book directly through the cruise line. There’s nothing wrong with booking through a third-party, but it does add another layer to the process. If there is a cancellation or price change, we like knowing that we can contact the cruise line directly.

Shorter = Cheaper (But Not Necessarily The Best Value)

All things considered, the shorter a cruise’s length, then the less money it’s going to cost. That shouldn’t be a surprise. So if you want to sail on the overall least expensive cruises, then look for trips that are 3-5 days in length.

But don’t mistake a cheap price for the best value. Often you’ll find that longer cruises are actually cheaper on a per-day basis, offering a better value for what you are spending . On this basis, a $500 per person 7-day cruise is “cheaper” than a $300 3-day cruise.

You’ll need to decide if you’re looking for the least expensive cruise overall or the best value when you start your search.

Avoid Sailing In The Summer

If you’re like many people, then summer is the most convenient time to cruise. Maybe you have kids who are off of school, or simply want to have a summer vacation when things at work slow down with everyone else out of the office.

If you want a cheap cruise, however, avoid sailing in the summer . During this time cruise lines see higher demand as more people look to travel. The result is higher prices.

How much higher? It’s not unusual to see the same trip cost hundreds more in the summer than during the lulls in spring or fall.

Of course, if sailing to Alaska you can’t avoid having to sail during the summer season as these trips don’t go year-round.

Cheapest Cruise Months: January, February, September, October

If you have the most flexibility and are sailing from North America, check out cruises in January, February, September and October. Generally they seem to be the least expensive options .

For months like November and December times outside the holidays are pretty cheap, but prices spike for Thanksgiving and Christmas.

Older Ships Mean Cheaper Fares

No, not every trip on an older ship will be less expensive compared to a cruise on a newer ship . But as a rule of thumb, the older a ship is, the less expensive you can expect its cruises to be.

New ships? These days they are nothing short of floating resorts, with Broadway shows, amusement parks, and fine dining added in for good measure.

Older ships still have plenty to offer and can be an amazing time, but they just aren’t quite on the same level. And since everyone wants to enjoy the latest and greatest, the newer ships are priced accordingly.

So when you do find some of the cheapest cruises, expect them to be on older ships in the fleet. The good news is that these ships are regularly updated, so it’s not like you’re going to be sailing a cruise on a ship that looks like it’s from the 1970s with shag carpet! They just might not have the space and amenities seen on larger, newer vessels.

Try Your Fare With And Without Your Loyalty Number

Every cruise line has a loyalty program. Sail more nights and over time you’ll earn more perks. This includes access to exclusive fares, benefits on the ship, and more.

Whenever you book your cruise online through the cruise line’s website, there is typically a place to put in your loyalty number. Then it will show you fares.

In some cases, we’ve noticed that the rates when your number is entered can actually come out higher than without it .

Just don’t automatically assume that your loyalty account gives you the best rates. Search both with and without the number entered.

Casino Players Can Get Discounted Fares

Head to Las Vegas and drop a boatload of cash and don’t be surprised if you get a comped room. It’s a similar situation with cruises.

Just about every ship has a casino, and your play is tracked just like if you went to Vegas. Play enough and cruise lines will offer you sharply discounted cruises , sometimes for seemingly pennies on the dollar.

Is it a good deal? Well cruise lines aren’t offering you casino rates because they just want to be nice. If you’re paying $200 for a cabin, but dropping $1,000 in the casino, that’s not much different than paying $1,200 for the vacation.

Even so, you should know that if you’re a big gambler there are some benefits to your play on the ship in the form of heavily discounted cruise fare.

Don’t Wait For A Cruise Line Sale… They Don’t Really Matter

Here’s a secret about cruise line sales — they run constantly. And while they do change here and there, most of the time it seems like they all end up at the same price .

Sure you might save a few bucks, but it’s not like one day the price will be 30% less when a new sale hits compared to the day before.

That’s not what you’d think at first glance, however. Cruise lines use tools like big countdown timers on their websites, talk about exclusive offers, or wording like “last chance.”

Are there some sale offers that actually are good and only around for a little while? Sure. But what we’ve seen is that the vast majority are ones that are only tweaked slightly and then presented as new.

The sales are a way to get your attention and excited to book, but they typically don’t seem to have a large impact on what you pay from one day to the next. When you “sail” will be a much bigger influence than when you “sale.”

See If You Can Pay With Credit Card Rewards

These days many of us have credit cards with reward points. So spend a dollar, get a point that can be put toward cash back, your statement, gift cards, travel, and more.

No matter what sort of card you have, if you have some earnings, then it’s a smart idea to cash them in to help pay for your trip.

Sure, it’s not necessarily a way to find a cruise for less money, but it is less money that comes out of your pocket for the vacation .

Costco Travel Is Great For Cruises (High Incentives)

If you’re a Costco member, then you are sitting on one of the best places to buy a cruise.

There are seemingly hundreds of websites where you can buy a cruise through. And what you’ll find is that they all seem to have the same price . So a cruise for $579 on the cruise line website is $579 on Orbitz.

Where they differ sometimes is that some places will offer things like onboard credit or rewards for booking through them. In our hunts, Costco seems to be the king in this department. If you’re a member, then you can book through Costco Travel. There, the fare will be what you see elsewhere, but they offer Costco Shop Cards as an incentive .

These cards are essentially gift cards to Costco that can be used like cash at the store. And in our experience the amounts can be substantial compared to the price of the cruise. We’ve seen rewards upwards of 10% of the cruise fare.

If you’re a member, don’t book without checking out Costco first for your trip. If you aren’t a member, then it might be worth joining up.

Read: The Best Websites to Buy a Cruise

Repositioning Cruises Are Among The Cheapest You’ll Find

If you are flexible… and I mean really flexible… with how you sail, then look at repositioning cruises.

A normal cruise begins and ends in the same port. So you hop on the ship in Miami, sail around the Caribbean for a week, and come back to Miami. But sometimes a ship is being moved from port to port. So a ship may sail from Miami to Europe for the summer.

As you might expect, filling a ship that starts in one port and ends in another — especially on a lengthy trip like across the Atlantic — can be tougher. That leads to some ridiculously cheap cruise fares .

Royal Caribbean, for example, has a 12-night cruise from Barcelona to Barbados starting at just $421 per person for cruise fare. That comes out to just $35 per day. An 11-night cruise aboard Anthem of the Seas leaves New York for England, at just $655.

The only catch? You are on your own for getting back home.

Check Prices And Call The Cruise Line If You See A Cheaper Fare After Booking

If you want the cheapest cruise, then your work isn’t quite done even after you book. You’ll want to check in from time to time (once every week or two) to see what the price is now.

Like airfare (although not as drastic), cruise fares do fluctuate. There’s always a possibility that you may book a trip and then the price falls. In that case, don’t hesitate to call the cruise line or your travel agent.

Many times you can call and get some help with the lower fare in the form of a refund or onboard credit for the difference. It doesn’t always work, but for the little time it takes, it is definitely worth the effort.

Should I Wait To Buy A Cruise Until Last Minute?

Last-minute fares aren’t really a thing anymore. It makes sense that if a cruise is about to sail with an empty cabin that the cruise line would slash the fare to at least get somebody in the room.

In reality, that’s not the case. For one, in normal times ships sail above 100% occupancy . That means every cabin has at least two people in it and some have more. In other words, ships don’t normally sail with empty cabins.

Of course, with the health crisis that’s changed a bit, but cruise lines have largely made it a point to keep pricing steady as the sail date nears. After all, if a cruise always dropped prices right before the trip, then it would train passengers to wait to book for better deals.

Which Cruise Line Has The Cheapest Cruises?

You can find deals from any cruise line, but there are some that definitely seem to offer cheaper cruises overall.

Among the major cruise lines, we find that Carnival and MSC tend to be less expensive on average than what you’ll find elsewhere.

That said, don’t let that keep you from searching across all lines. There are some routes and times where you can find cheaper cruises from other lines.

Do Computer “Cookies” Matter When Searching Online for Cruises? Do They Change Prices?

There is a belief among some people that if you search for a cruise on your computer multiple times, that the price will increase as it shows you are more interested in buying.

The idea is that a cookie on your computer browser tracks your visits and bumps up the price to earn more money for the cruise line.

Having searched and bought cruises online for years, we can tell you that we’ve never seen any sort of evidence that this happens . We’ve priced the same cruise over and over, searched in “incognito” windows, different browsers, etc. with no change in price.

Where we have seen price differences is when entering our loyalty number, which sometimes is automatically filled in with your browser’s cookies. It’s not often, but sometimes there are actually higher prices with this number entered than without.

What Is A Good Price For A Cruise?

Of course, with all the different dates, routes, lengths, and ships, the price of a cruise can vary widely. So what is a good price?

We have more details on what’s a good price here , but in general you can consider the prices below as relatively cheap. Note that these are priced per day for an interior cabin — so you can compare these with the “headline” prices you see quoted on websites.

Good Prices for a Cruise (interior, per person, before taxes/fees): Caribbean/Bahamas/Mexico: $75 per night  Alaska: $100 per night Mediterranean: $85 per night

Why Is The Price I Pay So Much More Than The Headline Price?

When shopping for a cheap cruise, you’ll notice that there are low “headline” fares mentioned. So a 7-day cruise might go for $559, but the total cost is much higher — often three times as high — by the time you actually buy the trip.

That’s because of several reasons. First, prices on websites are quoted for the lowest-tier interior cabin. If you choose a higher-end room like a balcony, then that price will be higher.

As well, cruise fares are quoted on a per-person basis, but almost always are charged for double occupancy. So even if you sail solo, you’re charged for two cruise fares.

Finally, there are port fees and taxes. These can add another $100-$200 per person, depending on your specific trip.

More on Finding Cheap Cruise Deals

• 12 Cheap Alaskan Cruises (Starting at Just $339)
• I Sailed the CHEAPEST Cruise I Could Find… Here’s What It Was REALLY Like
• 12 Cheap Cruises Under $500 Per Person

Popular: 39 Useful Things to Pack (17 You Wouldn't Think Of)

Read next: park & cruise hotels for every port in america, popular: 107 best cruise tips, secrets, tricks, and freebies, related articles more from author, 107 best cruise tips, tricks, secrets, and freebies, what’s the best length of time for a cruise, why cheap cruises are dead (for right now), answered: what’s the cheapest time to take a cruise, which cruise line should i sail the definitive guide for 2024, 10 rules to getting the best deal on a cruise, leave a reply cancel reply.

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

15+ Easy Port Canaveral Hotels With Cruise Shuttles to the Ship

Feeling brave msc debuts “cliffhanger” — a swing that takes you 160 ft. over the water, what i wish i knew before visiting nassau on a cruise, hotels with cruise shuttles for every major port in america, 39 useful things to pack for your cruise (including 17 you’d never think of).

• Privacy Policy
• Terms & Conditions

Your Perfect Cruise Starts Here

Latest Cruise Price Drops

Find cruise with the potential to save, best cruise deals, get the most cruise vacation for your money, what cruisewatch can do for you.

Save your money

Never miss out on your perfect deal

Save your time

Let us do the work and search for the best cruise price drops in the market.

Simplify cruise planning

We help you find your perfect cruise

• Destination
• Cruise Lines

Most popular cruise departure ports

• Ft. Lauderdale
• Port Canaveral
• New York City
• Cape Liberty
• San Francisco
• Los Angeles
• New Orleans
• Southampton
• Civitavecchia
• Genoa & Portofino

Most popular cruise destinations

• Caribbean cruises
• Northern Europe cruises
• Southern Europe cruises
• Asia cruises
• Australia cruises
• Alaska cruises
• North America cruises
• South America cruises
• Hawaii cruises
• South Sea cruises
• Middle East cruises
• Mexico cruises
• Bermuda cruises
• Galapagos cruises
• Atlantic cruises
• USA/Canada cruises

Most popular cruise lines

• Royal Caribbean
• Holland America Line
• Princess Cruises
• Celebrity Cruises
• Norwegian Cruise Line
• Carnival Cruise Lines
• MSC Cruises
• Silversea Cruises
• Viking Cruises
• Crystal Cruises
• Oceania Cruises
• Windstar Cruises
• Disney Cruise Line
• SeaDream Yacht Club
• Azamara Club Cruises
• Regent Seven Seas
• Costa Cruise Lines
• Star Clippers
• Hurtigruten Cruise Lines

Most popular cruise ships

• Oasis of the Seas
• Carnival Dream
• Carnival Triumph
• Carnival Magic
• Carnival Glory
• Allure of the Seas
• Carnival Victory
• Carnival Vista
• Enchantment of the Seas
• Carnival Ecstasy
• Carnival Conquest
• Carnival Breeze
• Norwegian Bliss
• Celebrity Equinox
• Carnival Horizon
• Carnival Elation
• Carnival Valor
• Anthem of the Seas
• MSC Seaside
• Carnival Sensation
• Mariner of the Seas
• Norwegian Epic
• Celebrity Reflection
• Celebrity Summit
• Symphony of the Seas
• Carnival Pride
• Carnival Freedom
• Norwegian Breakaway
• Carnival Imagination
• Carnival Paradise
• Carnival Liberty
• Royal Princess

• Main page Main page
• AIDA Cruises
• Carnival Cruise Line
• Costa Cruises
• Cunard Cruises
• Holland America Line
• MSC Cruises
• NCL Cruises
• Phoenix Reisen
• Princess Cruises
• P&O Cruises
• Royal Caribbean
• TUI Cruises
• All Cruise Lines
• Caribbean Princess
• Carnival Magic
• Celebrity Solstice
• Harmony of the Seas
• Independence of the Seas
• MSC Meraviglia
• Norwegian Epic
• Ovation of the Seas
• Queen Mary 2
• Alaska Cruises
• Australia Cruises
• Bahamas Cruises
• Baltic Sea Cruises
• Caribbean Cruises
• Cuba Cruises
• European Cruises
• Hawaii Cruises
• Mediterranean Cruises
• Miami Cruises
• New York Cruises
• Norway Cruises
• World Cruises
• View All Cruises
• All Inclusive Cruises

Cheap Cruises

• Cruise Holidays
• Expedition Cruises
• Family Cruises
• Last Minute Cruises
• Luxury Cruises
• Fly Cruises
• Mini Cruises
• Singles Cruises
• Christmas Cruises
• New Year Cruises
• TOP Cruise Deals
• Ship finder

The old cliche that cruises are an expensive treat is incredibly outdated! Cruises are no longer a rarity for the smaller budget. Don’t miss the pleasure of a cheap cruise and find the perfect deal among our cruise deals , cancellation cabins and last minute cruises .

Cruises have long since ceased to be reserved for the better-off: even the smaller budget allows you to enjoy the benefits of a cruise. Experience this very special kind of holiday and visit several countries without having to leave your hotel room or even pack your bags. Our cruise offers are perfect for families who require a range of cabin options to cater for their needs. Even if cruises are a completely new terrain for you, you've come to the right place: Our bargains are also ideal as a taster cruise due to their low price, to see if the sea air is for you.

River or Ocean

Voyage dates, voyage length, cruise lines, customer review, from country, from/to country, includes flight, onboard language.

Itinerary: Palma de Majorca, La Spezia, Civitavecchia, Ajaccio, Barcelona, Palma de Majorca

• Destination
• From/to port

Seetours offers with attractive prices

Why a cheap cruise is the right choice for you

Even if you are an experienced traveller, wouldn’t you like to discover a new country every month? Our cheap cruises could be just the thing for you: give in to your desire to travel and choose a cheap cruise.

Book only what you really want and keep your budget under control at all times. Depending on the cruise line, you have the option to choose different pricing models - from all-round service to the best price guarantee.

Shipping companies for cheap cruises

Many cruise lines already specialize in cheap cruises and offer you a wide range of destinations: for example, you will find especially at AIDA Cruises , Carnival Cruise Line , Royal Caribbean or MSC Cruises . Find savings without sacrificing quality.

Popular Cruise Bargains Destinations

• Canary Islands Cruises
• Terms & Conditions
• Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
• Privacy Policy
• Whistleblower

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

NEW South America voyages: Get up to $2,300 in onboard & excursion credit^§!

Featured cruise deals, for a limited time only, get up to 35% off cruise fares plus 3rd & 4th guests sail free, and a $99 deposit † , mediterranean, canada & new england, panama canal, british isles, california coast, australia & new zealand, south america & antarctica, tahiti & south pacific, trans-atlantics, world cruise, last minute cruise deals.

Get the best deals on cruises that are sailing soon. Hurry to book our best priced cruises!

Limited Time Offer

3rd and 4th Guests Sail Free

Sail away with deals on nearby cruises, sail from galveston, sail from ft. lauderdale, sail from los angeles, sail from new york city, sail from boston, sail from seattle, sail from port canaveral, sail from san francisco, onboard cruise deals & packages, princess plus® and princess premier® packages.

Upgrade to our Princess Plus® and Princess Premier® packages — you'll love the value. Wi-Fi, tips, drinks — and more — bundled at more than 50% off. It's one of the best deals around. See why it Pays to Plus®!

Plus Package Cruise Deals

These Princess Plus fares include great perks like Wi-Fi, drinks, crew appreciation and more. Overall savings of over 50% when you add on this package for only $60 per day. Fares listed include the Plus package.

Sun Princess® - sailing in February 2024

What were we thinking of when we designed the new Sun Princess? You. We pondered everything, so you can feel the love on the cruise vacation of your dreams.

2025 World Cruise Offer

For a limited time, enjoy our Princess Premiere® package at no additional cost when you book a 2025 World Cruise sailing on Island Princess®

More Ways to Save

Past guest loyalty offers.

Our loyalty program, the Captain’s Circle, offers great perks for those who have previously traveled with us.

Military Cruise Benefits

Princess offers up to $250 free onboard spending money as a way to thank the brave men and women of the American and Canadian militaries for their service.

Special Offers, Just for You

Sign up to get special offers, news, and much more delivered straight to you inbox.

The Princess® Rewards Visa® Card Earn 20,000 Bonus Points

Earn 20,000 bonus points after spending $500 in the first 90 days. That’s enough for a $200 statement credit on your next Princess purchase. Plus, enjoy 2X points per $1 spent on all Princess purchases including onboard purchases. Terms apply.

† Subject to full  terms, restrictions, and conditions

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

Cruise Deals, Packages, And Promotions

Sail away to Alaska, the Caribbean, the Mediterranean, and more with Holland America Line cruise deals, offers, and promotions. Whether you’re planning ahead, or looking for last-minute cruise deals, we look forward to welcoming you on board one of our Holland America cruises.

One Price, Four Extras, Big Savings

Early Booking Bonus On Your Next Cruise

US$400 Onboard Credit

Search cruise deals by destination, cruise deals by destination a - g.

Alaska Cruise Deals

Asia & Pacific Cruise Deals

Australia & New Zealand Cruise Deals

Canada & New England Cruise Deals

Caribbean Cruise Deals

Europe Cruise Deals

Cruise deals by destination h - z.

Hawaii & Tahiti Cruise Deals

Mexico Cruise Deals

Pacific N.W & Pacific Coast Cruise Deals

Panama Canal Cruise Deals

South America & Antarctica Cruise Deals

Lowest Price Guarantee

YOU’RE GETTING THE LOWEST PRICE POSSIBLE… 110% GUARANTEED !

If you find a better Carnival-advertised deal within two days of booking your cruise… well, we’re going to be very surprised. And then we’ll give you 110% of the difference in onboard credit! You can be confident that our prices are the lowest, so you can get on to more important things... like counting down the days until you sail!

Just Remember This:

• You have 48 hours from the time you book to find a lower price.
• Carnival will give you 110% of the difference in onboard credit.
• Lowest Price Guarantee only applies to publicly available rates.

Think you've found a lower price?

View Terms And Conditions

Protect Your Trip »

The 13 most affordable alaska cruises for 2024 & beyond.

Book your Alaska cruise during one of the best promotions of the year.

The Most Affordable Alaska Cruises

Courtesy of Holland America Line

There's no better time than now to book your dream vacation to The Great Land. Cruise vacations are more popular than ever, and affordable cruises are getting harder to find – especially for beloved destinations like Alaska.

Cruisers can nab some of the lines' best deals of the year during wave season. This period, which extends from January to March, refers to the "tidal wave" of lower pricing across the cruising industry during this time. Some cruise lines even kick off their sales in December, so it's advisable to begin your search for discounted pricing early.

Below, we've included some of the best Alaska cruise deals available right now for sailings in 2024 and 2025. All quoted prices are per person for double occupancy and were accurate at the time of writing. Keep in mind: Each itinerary may be available on multiple dates; we've listed the date with the lowest starting price to get you the best value.

Read on to explore the top options for an affordable Alaska cruise.

Find your perfect cruise

Holland America Line

Holland America's "Time of Your Life" wave season deal features up to 40% off bookings for select sailings from summer 2024 through spring 2025; the sale ends at the end of February. You can also add the premium "Have It All" bundle. This added perk features a signature drink package , specialty dining, shore excursions and Wi-Fi access. The exact pricing and benefits of the package depend on the length of the cruise. The wave season pricing also features a complimentary stateroom upgrade, reduced deposits, and free or discounted fares for kids.

7-Day Glacier Discovery Southbound

Holland America's seven-day voyage aboard Noordam includes an afternoon cruising in Hubbard Glacier and a full day of sailing through picturesque Glacier Bay National Park & Preserve. The ship also calls on the ports of Skagway, Juneau and Ketchikan, with one additional day of scenic cruising on the Inside Passage, before disembarking in Vancouver. Plan to stay an extra day in Vancouver to explore on your own, or opt for a hop-on, hop-off sightseeing tour with Holland America (complete with luggage service and an airport transfer) before taking a flight home later that evening.

This southbound itinerary is also available on May 25, 2025, aboard Nieuw Amsterdam , starting at $679 per person.

7-Day Alaska Inside Passage

This round-trip sailing on Zaandam from Vancouver highlights the Inside Passage with a day of scenic cruising, plus a limited stop in Tracy Arm Inlet for excursions, before reaching the coastal towns of Juneau and Skagway. Then, you'll enjoy another day of scenic cruising in Glacier Bay National Park & Preserve, followed by a stop in Ketchikan and cruising the Inside Passage before disembarking in Vancouver .

The Tracy Arm fjord features glacier-covered mountains and the largest intact coastal temperate rainforest in the country. It is also home to abundant wildlife, including whales, harbor seals, bald eagles, bears and mountain goats. Book the Tracy Arm Fjord & Glacier Explorer excursion to see the majestic beauty of the Tracy Arm wilderness and the twin Sawyer Glaciers up close. You might even see and hear ice calving into the pristine waters. You'll cruise through Stephens Passage on your way back to meet the ship in Juneau.

Zaandam sails this itinerary in 2025, as well. The lowest fare starts at $629 per person for the voyage on May 14, 2025.

Princess Cruises

Courtesy of Princess Cruises

Princess Cruises' wave season deals feature up to 40% off cruise prices, complimentary room upgrades, $100 deposits, and free fares for third and fourth guests in the same stateroom or suite. The advertised fares on the Princess Cruises website are for the line's MedallionClass experience, which includes dining at the complimentary onboard restaurants, entertainment on the ship, fitness facilities, and the youth and teen clubs. You can add optional upgrades, such as a beverage package, specialty dining, shore excursions and Wi-Fi access, either individually or with a Princess Plus or Princess Premier package.

7-Day Voyage of the Glaciers with Glacier Bay (Northbound)

Princess' seven-day itinerary aboard Grand Princess features the lowest available fare for the line's 2024 Alaska season. The itinerary starts with a relaxing sea day, followed by stops in three ports of call in Alaska: Ketchikan, Juneau and Skagway. You'll also have two days of scenic cruising in Glacier Bay National Park & Preserve and College Fjord before disembarking in Whittier, near Anchorage .

The southbound voyage (which is the reverse itinerary) on Grand Princess departs May 15, 2024, from Anchorage and also starts at $398 per person. Or, you can sail that southbound itinerary on Sapphire Princess on May 18, 2024, for the same price.

In 2025, you can book this itinerary on Caribbean Princess for as low as $467 per person, embarking on May 10, 2025.

7-Day Inside Passage (Roundtrip Vancouver)

This shoulder season sailing in September is available on Grand Princess. The round-trip voyage from Vancouver features two days at sea; one day of scenic cruising in Endicott Arm and Dawes Glacier; and stops in the coastal towns of Juneau, Skagway and Ketchikan. While on the ship, spend warmer days outdoors relaxing at The Sanctuary, an adults-only venue. You can also experience one of the line's Discovery at SEA enrichment programs on board, or book one of the affiliated excursions ashore.

This Grand Princess itinerary is also available on May 27, 2025, for as low as $547 per person.

Norwegian Cruise Line

Courtesy of Norwegian Cruise Line

Norwegian's current "Free At Sea" promotion includes a free unlimited open bar package, free specialty dining, free shore excursions and complimentary Wi-Fi access. You'll also find additional deals like 50% off deposits, free third and fourth guests (or $99 per additional person, depending on the sailing), and free airfare for a second guest. Be sure to check the terms and conditions before booking a Norwegian sailing.

7-Day Alaska: Hubbard Glacier & Skagway

Norwegian's sailing from Seward to Vancouver on Norwegian Jewel features two days cruising through Hubbard Glacier, where you'll be able to book the Hubbard Glacier & Wilderness Explorer excursion for an up-close look at North America's largest tidewater glacier. Afterward, the ship calls on Icy Strait Point, Juneau, Skagway and Ketchikan (Ward Cove).

In Ketchikan, reserve a spot for the Alaskan Cultural & Lumberjack Show Experience, which includes an entertaining show, a chance to learn about Alaska Native culture, and a tasting of local food and wines. Alaska also offers some of the best fishing conditions in North America, so anglers may want to consider booking a private excursion to go fishing for halibut or salmon. After several days in port, enjoy one more day of scenic cruising through the Inside Passage before disembarking in Vancouver.

In 2025, the seven-day Hubbard Glacier & Skagway itinerary will sail from Vancouver to Whittier. The lowest fare for this cruise starts at $529 per person aboard the Norwegian Jade on May 5, 2025.

7-Day Alaska: Glacier Bay, Skagway & Juneau

This sailing on Norwegian Jewel departs from Vancouver and includes three sea days cruising the Inside Passage, Glacier Bay National Park & Preserve and Hubbard Glacier. The itinerary also calls on the ports of Ketchikan (Ward Cove), Juneau and Skagway.

The 13-mile-long Mendenhall Glacier is one of the top attractions in Juneau, and the line offers a variety of excursions to view the impressive ice sheet. For a bucket list adventure, splurge on the helicopter and dog-sledding excursion to Mendenhall Glacier from Skagway. You can also opt for another once-in-a-lifetime trip: a flightseeing tour by floatplane. You'll fly into the wilderness, kayak across a stream and then hike the surface of the Norris Glacier, a remote glacier in the Coast Mountains that's only accessible by plane or on foot.

If you're looking forward to 2025, you can book a similar itinerary from Whittier to Vancouver on April 28, 2025, starting at $499 per person on Norwegian Jade.

Tips on Trips and Expert Picks

Travel tips, vacation ideas and more to make your next vacation stellar.

Celebrity Cruises

Courtesy of Celebrity Cruises

Celebrity's 2024 wave season includes flash sales with offers like 75% off the second guest on nonrefundable deposit rates and a 50% discount with refundable deposit fares. Other deals may include free upgrades, depending on the sailing. Refer to the Celebrity Cruises website for the current promotions, or consult with a cruise specialist for the best deals and pricing.

7-Night Alaska Southbound Glacier

This mid-May itinerary on Celebrity Summit is currently the line's lowest-priced Alaska cruise for the 2024 season. The one-way sailing from Seward includes a day of scenic cruising around Hubbard Glacier: one of Alaska's most beautiful natural treasures at 7 miles wide, 76 miles long and an impressive 30 stories high. The ship also calls on ports in Juneau, Skagway, Icy Strait Point and Ketchikan, with an additional full day cruising the Inside Passage, before disembarking in Vancouver.

For 2025, this same itinerary currently starts at $649 per person for the May 16 sailing on Celebrity Summit.

7-Night Alaska Northbound Glacier

The reverse itinerary of the southbound voyage above, this cruise offers similar ports of call and sea days, except you'll stop in Sitka rather than Skagway. This sailing is also on Celebrity Summit. During your time in Icy Strait Point, consider a whale watching excursion; you are guaranteed to see whales (or receive your money back) on one of the tours departing from their shores. In Sitka, take a guided hike to explore the beautiful Tongass National Forest or a tour to learn about the Tlingit culture. This outing includes a visit to local totem artists and a beer meister, as well as a sampling of regional foods at a popular restaurant.

Or, consider a comparable cruise aboard Celebrity Summit on May 9 or May 23, 2025. Fares start at $649 per person.

Royal Caribbean International

Courtesy of Royal Caribbean International

Royal Caribbean's current deal features up to $600 in onboard credit, 60% off the second guest and kids sail free fares . The line offers sales throughout the year, so you can check back to see what promotions are available at a later date, or contact a cruise specialist for additional specials. Below, you'll find the lowest fares currently available for Royal Caribbean sailings in Alaska.

7-Night Northbound Alaska & Hubbard Glacier

Royal Caribbean's one-way sailing aboard Radiance of the Seas features scenic cruising along the Inside Passage and Hubbard Glacier, as well as stops in the ports of Juneau, Icy Strait Point, Sitka and Skagway. Consider booking a ride on the White Pass and Yukon Route while in Skagway: The historic narrow-gauge railway offers a picturesque ride through Alaska's wilderness, with views of White Pass.

The reverse itinerary, the Southbound Alaska & Hubbard Glacier voyage, is also available on Radiance of the Seas; prices start at $339 per person for the May 10, 2024, sailing. In 2025, the May 30 northbound itinerary aboard Radiance of the Seas currently begins at $680 per person.

7-Night Alaska Experience Cruise

This round-trip voyage from Seattle on Quantum of the Seas calls on Sitka, Skagway and Juneau in Alaska. It also makes a late afternoon stop in Victoria, British Columbia , where you can plan to have dinner that evening. You'll have two days at sea for relaxing or enjoying all the activities and attractions on the ship, including the RipCord by iFLY skydiving simulator, robotic bartenders and live performances with aerial entertainers. You can also take a ride on the FlowRider surf simulator, surrounded by snowcapped mountain views and calving glaciers.

In 2025, this round-trip voyage from Seattle on Quantum of the Seas starts at $840 per person for the Sept. 8 voyage.

Carnival Cruise Line

Courtesy of Carnival Cruise Line

This cruise line advertises limited-time promotional rates and deals throughout the year. You can join Carnival 's VIFP (Very Important Fun Person) Club to unlock even more deals and additional perks. Current specials include reduced deposits, up to 35% off fares, free room upgrades, onboard credit and discounts for families traveling in the same stateroom.

7-Day Alaska from Seattle

This seven-day voyage on Carnival Spirit sails round-trip from Seattle and features one day to explore the ship while at sea, plus a scenic cruising day in Tracy Arm Fjord. Ports of call include Skagway, Juneau and Ketchikan, as well as a late evening stop in Victoria before you disembark the next day in Seattle. For your day in Ketchikan, consider booking the award-winning Bering Sea Crab Fishermen's Tour on the famed Aleutian Ballad from the Discovery Channel show, "Deadliest Catch."

This itinerary is also offered on Carnival Luminosa . If you are sailing in 2025, you can book the same seven-day cruise starting at $609 per person for the April 14 voyage on Carnival Spirit.

Shorter cruises

A shorter cruise may be an attractive option if you don't have extensive vacation time or you prefer to spend a few days ashore before or after your sailing. If kids are in tow for the adventure – and it's your first time cruising with them – you might also want fewer days at sea to test the waters (literally). See our pick of competitively priced four- and five-night Alaska cruises, below.

Princess Cruises: 4-Day Alaska Sampler

This 2025 cruise aboard Discovery Princess includes one port of call, Ketchikan, and two days at sea between Vancouver and Seattle. This 4-Day Alaska Sampler itinerary is also offered on May 13, 2025, on Royal Princess , with a starting price of $327 per person. The reverse itinerary (Seattle to Vancouver) is offered on May 23, 2025, on Grand Princess; pricing starts at $347 per person.

Princess Cruises: 5-Day Alaska Sampler

If you want to sail with Princess for one extra day, consider booking the five-day sampler cruise sailing round-trip from Vancouver. This early season itinerary aboard Caribbean Princess calls on Sitka and Ketchikan, offering more time ashore to explore these two popular coastal towns along Alaska's Inside Passage. Guests will also have two sea days to enjoy activities and dining experiences on the ship.

How to find the best Alaska cruise deals

Book during wave season.

As previously mentioned, you can take advantage of some of the best deals of the year during wave season. Promotions offered during wave season include lower cruise fares, reduced deposits and onboard credits. You can also find special rates (or free fares) for the third and fourth guests in the same room, making this the perfect time to book a family cruise.

In addition, look for discounts on higher-level staterooms and suites, or even accommodations in exclusive areas of the ship, such as The Haven on Norwegian Cruise Line or The Retreat on Celebrity Cruises. These private spaces offer swanky extras like luxurious accommodations, all-inclusive pricing , butler service, a team of attendants and concierge service, as well as private restaurants, lounges and pools. With lower pricing, wave season may be the best time to splurge on a cruise vacation in one of these upscale enclaves.

Promotional pricing beyond wave season

If you miss booking your cruise during wave season, don't panic. Many lines offer special pricing and flash sales throughout the year and advertise lower fares for voyages during Alaska's shoulder seasons, which fall in May and September.

"You will always find the more affordable Alaska cruises toward the beginning and end of the season. This year, the Alaska cruise season begins in April and continues through October," says Chris Gray Faust, executive editor of Cruise Critic. She adds, "The challenge with shoulder season Alaska cruises is that the weather might not be the best – it can snow in Alaska in April and early May – and in the fall, the nights will be longer (although, there is a chance you might see northern lights )."

In addition to giving up the warmer summer weather (and possibly having snow), you may also miss some optimal wildlife viewing opportunities if you cruise early or late in the season. For example, the peak time for bear-watching excursions extends from mid-June to mid-August, which falls during the height of the Alaska cruise season in July and August.

If you're looking for other ways to save money on your cruise, Gray Faust advises that older ships also provide more value when you're looking for deals.

It's important to note that a few of this year's wave deals extend just until the end of February 2024, so you'll need to refer to the individual cruise line websites to see the exact dates for the special offers. You may also be able to find lower prices on some discount and aggregator sites, like Cruise Critic, Cruises.com and Priceline.

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Gwen Pratesi has been an avid cruiser since her early 20s. She has sailed on nearly every type of cruise ship, including the newest megaships, traditional masted sailing ships, river ships in Europe and a small luxury expedition vessel in Antarctica. She has cruised to Alaska and visited The Great Land in the summer, fall and winter, and journeyed to remote areas by bush plane above the Arctic Circle. She used her knowledge of Alaska cruises and extensive research to write this article. Pratesi covers the travel and culinary industries for major publications, including U.S. News & World Report.

You might also be interested in:

• The Best Time to Cruise to Alaska
• Alaska Cruise Packing List: Must-Have Items
• The Top Alaska Cruise Lines
• The Top Northern Lights Alaska Cruises
• The Top Alaska Shore Excursions

Tags: Travel , Cruises , Alaska Vacations , Budget Travel

World's Best Places To Visit

• # 1 South Island, New Zealand
• # 4 Bora Bora

If you make a purchase from our site, we may earn a commission. This does not affect the quality or independence of our editorial content.

You May Also Like

The best pearl harbor tours.

John Rodwan and Amanda Norcross April 9, 2024

The Best Pigeon Forge Dinner Shows

Korrin Bishop April 9, 2024

Flight Canceled or Delayed? What to Do

Amanda Norcross April 8, 2024

Carry-on Luggage Sizes by Airline

The Best Charleston Tours

John Rodwan April 4, 2024

The Best Napa Valley Wine Tours

Amanda Norcross April 4, 2024

The 10 Best Denver Tours

Lyn Mettler April 4, 2024

Top Memorial Day Weekend Getaways

Nicola Wood April 3, 2024

The Best Way to Renew a Passport

Amanda Norcross April 3, 2024

The Best Checked Luggage

Erin Evans , Rachael Hood , Catriona Kendall , Sharael Kolberg , Amanda Norcross and Leilani Osmundson April 3, 2024

I tried Holland America's 'Have It All' package. For just $55 a day, my cruise felt way more luxurious.

• I tried Holland America Line 's Have It All package on a recent cruise to Alaska.
• For $55 per person per day, we got complimentary drinks, special meals, and other perks.
• The price was so worth it we already booked this package for future cruises. 

Cruise bookings are predicted to reach record levels this year, and travelers are especially interested in luxurious sailings.

But as many of us know, luxury doesn't always equate to value, even when it comes to upgrades and special packages.

So, on our recent cruise to Alaska, my husband and I put one of many cruise packages to the test: Holland America Line's "Have It All" package, which costs $55 per person per day.

It includes perks like a beverage package, ship credit for shore excursions, onboard WiFi, and dinner at specialty restaurants.

Here's why we found it to be such a great value we're going to add it to future cruises.

The beverage package was great, and it included special drinks without alcohol

The biggest perk of the "Have It All" package was the ability to order drinks without worrying about the bill at the end of the cruise.

Our previous cruises had us drinking only tap water, drip coffee, tea, and an occasional glass of wine with dinner to avoid any sticker shock at the end of the trip. We felt restricted in enjoying our vacation.

Related stories

But this time, we had the freedom to enjoy ourselves. The "Have It All" package we booked came with 15 drinks a day under $11. If you want a drink over $11, you only pay the difference.

The beverage package also covers non-alcoholic drinks. It was perfect for when we wanted espresso drinks for cold Alaska days or a bottle of water for a shore excursion.

The shore-excursion credit helped push us to have more fun

We knew we had to do a whale-watching excursion in Alaska, but didn't consider booking other excursions due to price. Many of the ones we were interested in cost over $100 per person.

But with the package, we each got credits to use toward shore excursions during our cruise. The value of the credit varies depending on the duration of your cruise — ours was less than 10 days, so we each got a $100 credit.

The $200 worth of credits made us feel more comfortable booking an incredible excursion to kayak the wild waters of Sitka.

We probably would've hesitated to book an excursion and missed an incredible experience if we hadn't felt compelled to use the credits in the package.

Specialty dining helped us celebrate our anniversary

Our "Have it All" packages each included at least one dinner at one of the ship's specialty restaurants. If you're on a longer cruise, this package would get you access to more dinners.

We used our credits to eat at the Pinnacle Grill, known for its premium steaks and intimate dining experience. Our anniversary dinner was extra special because of the access to premium dishes unavailable in the main dining room, five-star service, and a luxurious setting.

WiFi kept us connected

The package included WiFi, which really came in handy as we shared photos with friends and family throughout our trip.

We were able to use the internet to search for whatever we needed and research the highlights to visit at the next port of call.

We've already booked the package for future cruises

For less than what a few drinks cost per day, the package helped us relax, have fun, and enjoy each port of call with a shore excursion. Plus, we got to indulge in the ship's specialty restaurants.

We loved it so much we've already purchased this same package for three future cruises.

Watch: While Delta's business is 'extremely robust,' the airline's marketing chief stays focused on the data

• Main content