msc cruise from dubai 2023

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Cruises departing from the port of Dubai

Give yourself the gift of a cruise vacation from the Arab Emirates with MSC Cruises. Dubai is the second largest Emirate after Abu Dhabi and represents a true technological, state-of-the-art paradise on the edge of the desert. Its port, Dubai Ports World, is among the largest in the world and offers every possible comfort for visitors sailing from the city.

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DUBAI AND ABU DHABI CRUISES

Emirates Cruises: Beach bliss, fancy nightlife and incredible experiences

Emirates cruise deals 

Explore the finest Emirates cruise deals in 2024 and 2025 and embark on an unforgettable journey to Dubai and Abu Dhabi. From stunning skyscrapers and superb nightlife to turquoise seas, these magical lands will inspire you. Whatever your chosen itinerary, the lengthy stays in port of MSC cruises to Dubai and Abu Dhabi, allow complete immersion in incredible and authentic ashore experiences. And in between stops, savour the impeccable service, delicious cuisine and world-class entertainment on board of our ships. Get ready for an exceptional cruise holiday as you unveil the allure of an Emirates voyage with Dubai and Abu Dhabi cruise deals by MSC Cruises.

EMIRATES PORTS

Cruises from dubai.

Cruises from Abu Dhabi

View all Dubai, Abu Dhabi & Qatar ports

• Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
• Bahrain, Kingdom of Bahrain
• Damman, Saudi Arabia
• Doha, Qatar
• Dubai, United Arab Emirates
• Khasab, Oman
• Muscat, Oman
• Sir Bani Yas Island, United Arab Emirates

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MSC Cruises

The only cruise blog for the Middle East and South Africa

MSC Cruises confirms MSC Opera and Virtuosa for 2023/24 season in Dubai

After sailing its biggest ever Middle East cruise season during 2022/23 out of Dubai , MSC Cruises has confirmed that MSC Opera will once more be deployed to the region, while MSC World Europa will be replaced with MSC Virtuosa.

MSC Cruises doubled up in Dubai for the current season, which runs from November, 2022 to March, 2023, with MSC Opera and MSC World Europa both homeporting in Dubai and sailing week-long roundtrip itineraries in the Arabian Gulf.

MSC World Europa is the largest cruise ship in the fleet, the second-largest class of ship in the world, and is currently the largest ever to homeport in Dubai.

While MSC Virtuosa is slightly smaller, she’s still one of the largest in the world and a major demonstration by MSC Cruises of its confidence in the Middle East cruise market, which has seen extraordinary growth in the last few years, in spite of the COVID-19 pandemic.

MSC currently homeports in both the UAE (in Dubai and Abu Dhabi), and Saudi Arabia (in Jeddah). MSC Orchestra has been confirmed for the 2023/24 cruise season out of Jeddah, replacing MSC Splendida, which is currently sailing from the city until April next year.

MSC Opera’s 2023/24 Dubai cruise season

MSC Opera will arrive in Dubai in November, 2023, after completing a 20-night repositioning voyage from Genoa through the Mediterranean, along the Suez Canal and down the Red Sea, stopping at ports in Egypy and Saudi Arabia along the way.

She’ll sail her first roundtrip Dubai cruise of the 2023/24 season on November 19th. These 7-night itineraries sailing from Dubai to Dubai visit Khasab and Muscat in Oman, as well as the UAE’s capital Abu Dhabi, and its exclusive cruise destination island Sir Bani Yas.

Some of the itineraries switch out Khasab for Fujairah, but all are 7 days in length. She’ll sail these itineraries until April 21st, 2024, when she’ll depart Dubai for Civitavecchia (Rome), with the 20-night voyage retracing her steps back through the Red Sea and Mediterranean.

MSC Opera is around a third the size of MSC World Europa in terms of gross tonnage, and carries just 2,150 passengers at double occupancy, but there’s still plenty passengers will find onboard to keep themselves entertained.

There are four restaurants, including a pizzeria, 8 bars and cafes, including an elegant piano bar, and 2 pools with 2 whirlpools up on the top deck. As a result of her major refit in 2014-2015, the ship also has a Dormey spray park up here.

There are dedicated facilities for babies, toddlers, children and teens, including a virtual games arcade, and for the adults there are four lounges, a casino, spa, gym, nightclub and even a shopping area.

MSC Virtuosa

MSC Virtuosa’s 2023/24 Dubai cruise season

MSC Virtuosa will sail her first roundtrip cruise of the season from Dubai on December 2nd, 2023. These 7-night Dubai to Dubai cruises will depart every Saturday from Dubai Cruise Terminal in Port Rashid until March 30th, 2024, when she’ll depart on a 30-night repositioning cruise to Southampton.

Each voyage sails from Dubai in the United Arab Emirates to the nation’s capital, Abu Dhabi, and then overnight to the offshore island of Sir Bani Yas, where passengers will find a dedicated cruise beach and game safari park.

The next port of call will be Dammam, in Saudi Arabia, followed by an overnight cruise to Doha, Qatar and the back to Dubai, where the ship spends the final night of the cruise in port.

MSC Virtuosa can accommodate about 6,500 passengers and features more than 30 restaurants and bars, a shopping mall and entertainment facilities across 19 decks.

Her 1,000-seat theatre is home to Broadway-style productions every night, the MSC Aurea Spa is the largest in the fleet, the Tropical Pool has a retractable glass roof for swimming in any weather, the Savannah Aquapark is one of the largest at sea, and the Horizon Pool offers amphitheatre-style seating and in-water loungers.

There’s also a Himalayan Ropes course with obstacles dangling about 80 metres above the ocean, an F1 race car simulator, a bowling alley, a large retail area and countless other amenities. The ship was named in Dubai when she was delivered to the cruise line in 2021.

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Categories: Middle East Cruise News , News

Tagged as: Arabian Gulf , Dubai , Middle East , MSC Cruises , MSC Opera , MSC Virtuosa

Published by Shaun Ebelthite

Founder and editor of Cruise Arabia & Africa. I try to create the best news and information specifically for cruise passengers taking cruises to and from Dubai (where I live) and South Africa (where I was born). You can contact me at shaun(at)cruisearabiaonline.com. View all posts by Shaun Ebelthite

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DUBAI AND ABU DHABI CRUISES

Jump into the future with an Emirates cruise and discover the contemporary metropolis of Abu Dhabi   and  Dubai with their spectacular cityscapes, towering skyscrapers, and beautiful beaches that will leave you in awe. Explore the vibrant tapestry of Dubai's lifestyle and indulge in a world of luxury as you uncover the city's opulent malls. Enjoy a perfect fusion of international brands and local treasures, creating a truly unforgettable shopping spree. Savor the romance of a memorable dinner amidst the dunes after our exhilarating Desert Dune Adventure : a rollercoaster ride over golden sands and an unforgettable sunset view from the highest dune. With MSC’s cuises to Dubai, you’ll soak in the city's vibrant nightlife scene and treat yourself to exquisite fine dining in one of Dubai's beautiful restaurants for a lavish experience. In Abu Dhabi, the fun takes on a new dimension at the Ferrari World Theme Park , offering thrilling adventures. Meanwhile, the Abu Dhabi Louvre offers an unparalleled artistic journey. Spanning 12 galleries, this world-class collection maps humanity's artistic triumphs from the Neolithic era to the present day, all while defying conventional museum exhibition practices. Emirates cruises also bring you to the stunning Sir Bani Yas island  that will enchant you with a dream beach experience or a safari like no other between the mangroves, the desert and the protected bay areas. Embark on the journey of a lifetime as you discover the unique allure of Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Sir Ban Yas with MSC’s Emirates cruise.

Solo traveler

View all Dubai & Abu Dhabi ports

• Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
• Damman, Saudi Arabia
• Doha, Qatar
• Dubai, United Arab Emirates
• Khasab, Oman
• Mumbai (Bombay), India
• Muscat, Oman
• Sir Bani Yas Island, United Arab Emirates

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MSC Cruises

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MSC SEASCAPE

NEW HORIZONS AT SEA

An immersive experience truly connecting you to the sea awaits you onboard  MSC Seascape. MSC Seascape ship pays tribute to the beauty of the ocean with a whole host of  innovative design features  to enable guests to enjoy new horizons at sea, through her impressive outdoor spaces designed for relaxation, dining and entertainment. Coveted pools, panoramic lifts and the breath-taking glass skywalk Bridge of Sighs, make MSC Seascape iconic and unique for sensational points of view on the ocean. Beyond that, the new immersive  high-tech entertainment  with  innovative technology  provides guests with endless options.

ITINERARIES

Main features, environmental stewardship.

• Our second ship equipped with a Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR) system
• Hybrid Exhaust Gas Cleaning System
• Smart heating, ventilation and air conditioning systems (HVAC)
• LED lighting, high-efficiency appliances
• High-efficiency and energy-saving appliances
• Recycling and solid waste management
• Advanced Wastewater Treatment system
• Shore-to-Ship power
• Ballast Water – Treatment System – USCD Approved
• Anti-fouling paint
• Innovative Hull design and optimized hydrodynamics
• Trim optimization software

Discover more on how the MSC Group is actively contributing to impactful environmental conservation and humanitarian programs at the  MSC Foundation Centre  on board.

Design features

MSC Seascape pays tribute to New York City, which as a destination represents the spirit of discovery and cultural experiences that is at the heart of the MSC Cruises guest experience. As such, the design features, public areas and venue names are  inspired by the metropolitan U.S. city.  These include an imposing three-metre-high replica of the Statue of Liberty at the heart of the casino and a newly designed expansive retail and entertainment area, aptly named Times Square. The main feature of this new area is an impressive 8.5 metre-high LED wall spanning four decks with a projection of the iconic skyline of this entertainment hub in Manhattan that can change from day to night.

Incanto del mare – Magic of the sea

The monumental sculpture  Incanto del Mare  was created for the  MSC Foundation  by  Venini , one of the world’s most esteemed glassmakers, which celebrated its 100th Anniversary in 2021. The sculpture rises from deck 5 through to deck 8, it sends a powerful message of care for the sea and our planet to thousands of voyagers every year, evoking the beauty and fragility of sea. As a work of art, the creation symbolises the MSC Foundation’s dedication to protecting and promoting the natural environment of which we are a part and upon which we depend:  our Planet. MSC Seascape is the perfect location for the sculpture, bringing its message of care for the sea, which must – for our own as well as their health – be respected, maintained and nurtured.

The Marina Pool

On Deck 18, the main pool  has two different depths so that guests can choose to swim or simply stand and hang-out in the water, the newly designed area includes a 360-degree water fountain island in the centre as well as a new lounge space within the pool. It is connected with the aquapark with a Pirates Cove theme to create an extensive water area.

Outdoor Areas

At 339 metres, MSC Seascape is the longest ship in the fleet and offers 13,000sqm of outdoor space. Stand-out design features include spectacular glass-floored Bridge of Sighs located at the unique vantage point on deck 16 – 22 metres above the  Infinity Pool , stunning panoramic aft elevators and stylish glass-floor catwalks on either side of the ship on the waterfront promenade.

ROBOTRON offers the breath-taking thrill of a rollercoaster at sea combined with a personalised DJ music experience. It is a state-of-the-art robotic arm with an attached gondola that seats three guests. Flying 53 metres above the sea, ROBOTRON provides a unique 360° view of the horizon flipping riders upside down and in different directions for an adrenaline-pumping ride.

Family & Kids

MSC Seascape has one of the largest kids’ area of any ship in the fleet, with  703 m2 of dedicated space . The ambient has been redesigned to offer an unbeatable experience for kids. From the décor, design colors, and themes of the areas, the MSC Seascape’s Kids Club will give all children a chance to reach for the stars, thanks to a futuristic theme, dedicated to space and planetary exploration. Every cruise includes a special and unmissable event: the “ LEGO® Experience On Board “- an entire day dedicated to  LEGO® bricks & activities   for the whole family to enjoy. While the colorful  Baby Club areas  are designed in partnership with  Chicco  for children’s leisure. With 98 hours of live entertainment parents and children can always find something new and exciting to enjoy together!

Shopping On Board

Anchored by  TimeVallée , hosting a variety of luxury watch maisons, the shopping experience on board is second to none. Find the perfect memento to commemorate your cruise, and any items you may have forgotten at home. Discover more

MSC Aurea Spa

Offering a wide selection of Balinese massages and other wellness and beauty treatments to revitalise body and soul, the lavish MSC Aurea Spa  on MSC Seashore is a haven for relaxation and pampering, complete with a thermal area, beauty salon and nail boutique while the Saloon and barber are completely redesigned.

MSC Yacht Club

Located on the coveted foredecks on the ships, spanning four decks and providing sweeping sea views the MSC Yacht Club on MSC Seascape will become the largest and most luxurious in MSC Cruises’ fleet, with almost 3,000 sqm of space including a bigger solarium and a a panoramic whirlpool. Guests looking for a premium, all-inclusive cruise experience with private amenities and 24-hour butler service – while still enjoying the recreation and entertainment possibilities that the rest of the ship offers – can choose to sail in the  MSC Yacht Club , MSC Cruises’ exclusive ship-within-a-ship concept.

CABINS AND SUITES

Whether you’re looking for a duplex suite with private whirlpool bath, a sea-view balcony cabin or a family option, you’ll find it all on MSC Euribia.

ENTERTAINMENT

Younger guests can take advantage of the super-amusement park and sports centre to play sports and games during the daytime and party and dance in the evening. And the whole family can enjoy hours of fun in one of the most intricate and exciting water parks at sea.

Pirates Cove Aquapark

Chora theatre, msc formula racer, mini and junior clubs, restaurants & buffet.

The ship has eleven eateries – three main restaurants, a dedicated Aurea restaurant and the Yacht Club restaurant, a 1,169 seater buffet – and  five specialty restaurants  including the Butcher’s Cut, Ocean Cay fish restaurant, HOLA! Tacos & Cantina and Kaito Teppanyaki and Sushi Bar.

Butcher's Cut with Al Fresco dining

HOLA! Tacos & Cantina

Kaito Teppanyaki

Kaito Sushi Bar

Marketplace Buffet Restaurant

Ocean Cay Restaurant

The Green Wave Restaurant

Bars & lounges.

Le Cabaret Rouge

MSC Signature Casino

Cocktail Bar

Horizon Bar

Uptown Lounge

Wine Cave Bar

Champagne Bar

Dolce Vita Bar

Coffee Emporium

Fizz - Champagne Bar

Jen Philippe Chocalat & Cafe

MSC Yacht Club Grill & Bar

Venchi 1878 chocalate bar.

Use the deck plans to select your ideal cabin. The plan allows you to pinpoint the locations, while the colours distinguish the cabin category.

• Gross Tonnage: 183.500tons
• Number of passengers: 6.327
• Crew members: 1.711
• Numbers of cabins: 2.419
• Length/Beam/Height: 331 m /43 m / 65 m
• Maximum speed: 22.3 knots

CORPORATE INFO

Travel info, social links.

Mon - Fri 9 - 19 | Sat 9 - 18 | Sun 10 - 16

• Book your cruise with our Consultants
• I have already booked my cruise

DUBAI AND ABU DHABI CRUISES

Emirates cruise deals 

Explore the finest Emirates cruise deals in 2024 and 2025 and embark on an unforgettable journey to Dubai and Abu Dhabi. From stunning skyscrapers and superb nightlife to turquoise seas, these magical lands will inspire you. Whatever your chosen itinerary, the lengthy stays in port of MSC cruises to Dubai and Abu Dhabi, allow complete immersion in incredible and authentic ashore experiences. And in between stops, savour the impeccable service, delicious cuisine and world-class entertainment on board of our ships. Get ready for an exceptional cruise holiday as you unveil the allure of an Emirates voyage with Dubai and Abu Dhabi cruise deals by MSC Cruises.

EMIRATES PORTS

Cruises from dubai.

Cruises from Abu Dhabi

View all Dubai & Abu Dhabi ports

• Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
• Bahrain, Kingdom of Bahrain
• Doha, Qatar
• Dubai, United Arab Emirates
• Khasab, Oman
• Khor Fakkan, United Arab Emirates
• Mumbai (Bombay), India
• Muscat, Oman
• Sir Bani Yas Island, United Arab Emirates

Thank you for visiting MSC Cruises

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For a better experience and to continue your booking with MSC, please update your browser by downloading the latest version below.

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MSC Cruises

MSC Opera - December 24, 2023

Click For Interactive Map

December 24, 2023

December 24 - Invalid Date

MSC Cruises

7 Night Arabian Peninsula

from Dubai, U.A.E.

The December 24, 2023 cruise on the MSC Opera departs from Dubai, U.A.E.. On this 7 Night Arabian Peninsula sailing, the ship will visit a total of 6 different cruise port destinations, including its departure port. The MSC Opera sets sail on a Sunday (December 24, 2023) and returns on a Invalid Date (Invalid Date).

The MSC Opera was built in 2004 and is amoung MSC's 22 ships in it's fleet. The MSC Opera is included in the cruise line's Lirica Class. In the cruise ship stats below you'll find the MSC Opera vs all other MSC ships.

All Itineraries

Dubai is a popular destination for a relaxing beach holiday, an adventurous desert experience, wild nightlife or a weekend away to shop in the electronics and gold markets. Dubai has beautiful white beaches, clear blue seas, first class international hotels, and fine restaurants. In fact, Dubai has everything you could wish for to have a memorable getaway.

Dubai is a popular destination for a relaxing beach holiday, an adventurous desert experience, wild nightlife or a weekend away to shop in the electronics and gold markets. Dubai has beautiful white...

Fujairah city, the capital of the emirate, is characterized by the jagged Hajar mountains, which border the fertile coastal plain where most settlement has taken place. Blessed with dramatic scenery, Fujairah attractions include some excellent diving sites, the natural beauty of the mountains and coastline, cultural and historic attractions and of course, reliable winter sunshine.

Fujairah city, the capital of the emirate, is characterized by the jagged Hajar mountains, which border the fertile coastal plain where most settlement has taken place. Blessed with dramatic scenery...

The town has changed in recent times, but a glimpse of Muscat's past shows in the old houses lining the Mutrah corniche above the harbor, and in the traditional market souks. See the Sultan's Palace, the National Museum and perhaps indulge in Amonage or Ubar perfumes produced here -- The world's most expensive.

The town has changed in recent times, but a glimpse of Muscat's past shows in the old houses lining the Mutrah corniche above the harbor, and in the traditional market souks. See the Sultan's Palace...

Take advantage of the many on board activites during your day at sea. You'll have more than enough to fill your day!

Dubbed the Garden City of the Gulf, Abu Dhabi now offers visitors a variety of options to explore, such as green parks, clean beaches, and a range of marine and other sports, from powerboat races to sand-skiing and exotic adventures in the desert. Tourists can also pay a visit to the oasis city of Al Ain and enjoy a sightseeing tour to archaeological and leisure sites such as Al Hili Fun City.

Dubbed the Garden City of the Gulf, Abu Dhabi now offers visitors a variety of options to explore, such as green parks, clean beaches, and a range of marine and other sports, from powerboat races to...

SIR BANI YAS ISLAND

Mon - Fri 8:00am - 7:00pm Sat 9:00am - 1:00pm (AES/DT) Closed on Public Holidays.

DUBAI AND ABU DHABI CRUISES

Emirates cruise deals 

Explore the finest Emirates cruise deals in 2024 and 2025 and embark on an unforgettable journey to Dubai and Abu Dhabi. From stunning skyscrapers and superb nightlife to turquoise seas, these magical lands will inspire you. Whatever your chosen itinerary, the lengthy stays in port of MSC cruises to Dubai and Abu Dhabi, allow complete immersion in incredible and authentic ashore experiences. And in between stops, savour the impeccable service, delicious cuisine and world-class entertainment on board of our ships. Get ready for an exceptional cruise holiday as you unveil the allure of an Emirates voyage with Dubai and Abu Dhabi cruise deals by MSC Cruises.

Winter Cruises 

2024 - 2025

Single cruise deals

EMIRATES PORTS

Cruises from dubai.

Cruises from Abu Dhabi

View all Dubai & Abu Dhabi ports

• Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
• Bahrain, Kingdom of Bahrain
• Doha, Qatar
• Dubai, United Arab Emirates
• Khasab, Oman
• Muscat, Oman
• Sir Bani Yas Island, United Arab Emirates

Thank you for visiting MSC Cruises

Your browser may be out of date or not compatible with our new site and may not be secure.

For a better experience and to continue your booking with MSC, please update your browser by downloading the latest version below.

Thank you for visiting our site and we look forward to seeing you on board soon!

MSC Cruises

Reader's Digest

7 Most Affordable Cruise Lines That’ll Make Your Cruising Dreams Come True

Posted: October 2, 2023 | Last updated: October 2, 2023

The cheapest cruise lines

Cruising is often described as the ultimate relaxing vacation. You only unpack once, yet you wake up in a new country or island every morning. You also never have to worry about where to eat, there are nonstop activities onboard that keep everyone entertained—and most everything is included in the price. So you don't have to worry much about overspending once you're on board if you book on one of the most affordable cruise lines.

Of course, everything is more expensive these days, leaving some travelers to wonder if there are still affordable cruises available to meet their vacation budgets. Thankfully, that answer is yes, and there are several brands that still provide exceptional value aboard their floating cities. Many are among the best cruise lines , and some are even frequent cruisers' favorite cruises . In fact, you might be surprised to learn that living on a cruise ship can be cheaper than a mortgage , in case you decide you never want to return from your vacation.

So follow these cruise tips for how to save money on a cruise by booking the most affordable cruise lines. You may even be able to sneak in an extra vacation this year with all your savings. Here's what to pack for a cruise .

How much does a cheap cruise cost?

Cheap cruises usually range in price from $40 to $100 per night per person. To put that deal in perspective, imagine having your accommodations, food and entertainment covered for roughly $50 a day on a traditional land-based trip—you'd be hard-pressed to stay within that budget just for your meals. It's truly impressive that these all-inclusive cruises can charge so little.

But before you get too excited over these low prices, don't forget to factor in the cost of the extras when calculating your total expenses—that's one of the secrets cruise lines won't tell you . Things like drinks, shore excursions, gratuities, spa treatments, specialty dining, airfare, photos, taxes and port fees aren't included and can add up quickly.

Finally, keep in mind that the best deals will always be for an inside cabin, which means you won't have a porthole (let alone a balcony) for natural light. The good news? You'll sleep like a baby in total darkness, especially during an afternoon nap.

Get Reader's Digest ’s   Read Up newsletter for more travel, humor, cleaning, tech and fun facts all week long.

When is the cheapest time to book a cruise?

It's important to pay attention to the cheapest times to book a cruise if you want to save even more. Wave season, which is from January to March, is a promotional time of year when cruise lines run their most competitive sales. These sales are designed to encourage bookings for later in the year. You can also keep an eye on sites like MSC's Cruise Deals to find great prices.

There are great deals at other times of the year too. Generally speaking, the further in advance you book, the better prices you'll find. But the opposite is also true, because cruise lines will happily sell unused inventory at a significantly reduced rate in the form of last-minute deals. You'll need a flexible schedule to pull this off, and you may find airfare is too costly at that point.

Beyond wave season, planning far in advance or nabbing last-minute cruise deals, it's also wise to consider booking your cruises for the off-season. For instance, for the Caribbean and Mexico, that would mean summer sailings or during shoulder season (the month before and after high season—for example, in the case of Alaska, this would be in May or September). Just know that you are taking a bit of a risk with the weather during these off-peak times.

MSC Cruises

MSC Cruises offers sailings out of the U.S. (New York, Miami and Orlando) to the Caribbean, the Bahamas, Bermuda, New England and Canada. It also offers sailings to Northern Europe, the Mediterranean, Egypt, Dubai, South Africa and more.

Cost: Cruises on MSC start as low as $129 per person.

Specials to watch for: MSC offers such limited-time specials as free drinks and Wi-Fi plus up to $200 onboard credit (which can be used to book extras like shore excursions or spa treatments).

Other savings to consider: You won't find an adults-only cruise here, however this cruise line does offer a Kids Sail Free program, which means that all children under 18 traveling in the same cabin as their parents travel free all year-round. Port taxes, registration costs, insurance, flights and transfers (where required) are excluded from the offer, but it still goes a long way toward making this one of the most affordable cruise lines.

Affordable cruises: We've seen a 6-night southern Caribbean cruise for as low as $219 total per person.

Carnival Cruise Line

Carnival Cruise Line —known as one of the most affordable cruise lines—was founded in 1972 and now carries millions of guests every year aboard its 24 ships. It sails to Alaska, the Bahamas, Bermuda, Canada and New England, the Caribbean, Europe, Greenland, Hawaii, Mexico, Panama Canal, Asia, Australia and New Zealand, Papua New Guinea and the South Pacific.

Cost: Cruises on Carnival start as low as $169 per person.

Specials to watch for: Carnival celebrates dates like National Tourism Day with up to 40% off cruise rates, plus $50 onboard credits and reduced deposit rates from $50 per person. Other limited-time promotions include free cabin upgrades and "Early Saver" rates with price protection that provide peace of mind for early bookings.

Other savings to consider: One of the things that makes Carnival Cruise Lines even more affordable is that it has 14 home ports in the United States (Baltimore, Charleston, Galveston, Jacksonville, Long Beach, Miami, Mobile, New Orleans, New York, Norfolk, Orlando, San Francisco, Seattle and Tampa), making it easier for Americans to drive to their ship and avoid booking pricey flights .

Affordable cruises: We've seen a 5-day Mexican Riviera cruise for as low as $234 per person.

Royal Caribbean

Royal Caribbean offers itineraries to 240 destinations in 61 countries on six continents, including Royal Caribbean's private island destination in The Bahamas, Perfect Day at CocoCay. The innovative brand is known for many firsts at sea, including an ice-skating rink, bumper cars, zip-line, rock climbing wall, robotic bartenders and the Flowrider surf simulator. Its latest ship, the Icon of the Seas , which is set to begin sailing in January 2024, will be the world's largest cruise ship.

Cost: Cruises on Royal Caribbean start as low as $172 per person.

Specials to watch for: Royal Caribbean occasionally offers promotions like "30% Off Every Guest" (provides 30% savings off the cruise fare for all guests in the stateroom), flash deals like "Up to $550 Off" (provides instant savings of up to $550 USD per stateroom) and "Kids Sail Free" promos, during which the third and fourth guests who are 12 years or younger are eligible for free cruise fare.

Other savings to consider: Royal Caribbean offers exclusive access to pre-cruise savings and discounts that won't be available once you're onboard for things like shore excursions, beverage packages, food packages and Wi-Fi packages.

Affordable cruises: We've seen a 6-night Pacific Coast cruise for $250 per person.

Princess Cruises

Princess Cruises is a premium cruise line with award-winning itineraries around the globe, sailing to Alaska, the Mediterranean, Northern Europe, British Isles, South America, Japan, Asia, Australia and New Zealand, the Caribbean, Panama Canal, Mexico, Hawaii, the South Pacific and the California Coast. It's an excellent choice for a couples cruise (they host a lot of weddings and vow renewals), but it's also family-friendly.

Cost: Hundreds of sailings on Princess are priced under $100 per day; 60 sailings under $60 per day.

Specials to watch for: Princess regularly offers promotions, such as a 40% savings and low $100 deposit specials.

Other savings to consider: Upgrade to the Princess Plus or Princess Premier packages, which roll in the price of extras like Wi-Fi, drinks, gratuities and more for a savings of up to 66% vs. purchasing them separately.

Affordable cruises: Everyone dreams of booking the best Alaska cruise , and we've seen 7-night Alaska cruises for as low as $349 per person.

Norwegian Cruise Line

Norwegian Cruise Line 's fleet of 18 ships sails to 400 of the world's most desirable destinations—such as Asia, Africa, Alaska, Australia and New Zealand, Bahamas, Bermuda, Canada, New England, Caribbean, Hawaii, the Mediterranean, Mexico, the Baltic, South America and more.

Cost: Cruises on Norwegian start as low as $249 per person.

Specials to watch for: NCL offers various deals throughout the year. One recent special was 70% off, plus free airfare for the second guest, plus the third and fourth guests sailed for free.

Other savings to consider: Part of what makes Norwegian one of the best and most affordable cruise lines is that all cruise offerings may be combined with the company's ongoing "Free at Sea" promotion, which includes unlimited open bar, specialty dining, Wi-Fi and excursions. (Want to find out more about hidden features on cruise ships  that you never knew existed?)

Affordable cruises: We've seen 7-day Alaska cruises for as low as $279 per person.

Holland America Line

Holland America Line has been cruising both popular and less-traveled ports in the Caribbean, Alaska, Mexico, Europe, South America, the Panama Canal, Australia, New Zealand and Asia for 150 years. It has a fleet of 11 classic ships and does more than 500 sailings a year, visiting all seven continents.

Cost: Cruises on Holland start as low as $89 per person.

Specials to watch for: Having recently celebrated its 150th anniversary, Holland America has been offering 45% off cruise fares, up to $300 in onboard credit and reduced deposits of only $150. The brand typically offers other specials throughout the year.

Other savings to consider: For family cruise travelers , Holland America Line provides a Kids Cruise Free offer, allowing guests ages 18 and under to travel free to Alaska, Europe and the Caribbean when booked as a third or fourth guest on select cruises. And when booked directly on Holland America Line's site, travelers can take advantage of the Have It All Cruise Package, which includes shore excursion credits, drink package, specialty dining and Wi-Fi.

Affordable cruises: We've seen 7-day Alaska cruises as low as $329 per person.

Celebrity Cruises

Celebrity has 15 award-winning ships that take guests to more than 300 destinations in 79 countries on all seven continents, including the Caribbean, Alaska, Europe, South America, Asia, Australia and the South Pacific, Galapagos and Canada.

Cost: Cruises on Celebrity start as low as $288 per person.

Specials to watch for: Celebrity offers various specials, like a spring sale that takes 75% off a second guest's fare and saves up to $800 per stateroom with up to $800 to spend on board. Also look for promotions like Alaska weekend flash sales (second guest sails for free plus $250 onboard credit) and 20% off Galapagos vacations (round-trip airfare included).

Other savings to consider: Choose the all-inclusive options of prepackaged drinks, Wi-Fi and tips to save up to 45% on these individual items.

Affordable cruises: We've seen 7-night Alaska cruises for as low as $299 per person.

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