when do cruise lines offer best deals

What is wave season? Why you should book your next cruise now

It’s the most wonderful time of the year for cruise lovers – and I don’t mean the holidays.

Wave season, when cruise lines run their best deals , is upon us again. The period typically stretches from January through March, but some brands have already released their offers, giving travelers a chance to get a jump on their cruise plans.

“Wave season basically is like Black Friday shopping for cruisers,” said Scott Campbell, manager of cruise relations at AAA. 

This time around, the deals include stateroom upgrades, flight credits, fare discounts and more. Here’s what travelers should know:

Why do cruise lines offer their best deals during wave season?

Campbell said cruise lines aim to use wave season to “fill up the upcoming year” with bookings, particularly coming off of the holidays.

“People have been hanging out with their family for Thanksgiving, for Christmas, talking about, “Hey, we should do a cruise together, this would be awesome,’ ” he said. “So, come wave season … that's when the cruise lines take advantage of all those holiday conversations and throw out a bunch of great deals.”

Cruise operators may list cruises for the current year or further into the future, depending on their priorities. “It could be limited to what they want to promote,” Campbell said, “it could be here’s our book of business, let’s just fill it up.”

All cruise lines typically have some sort of deal, though he noted they may not be as strong or broad from some luxury brands.

Tips for booking during wave season

With so many offers on the table, choosing the right deal can be overwhelming.

“It’s good to sort of have an idea of what you’re looking for,” Campbell said. He recommended breaking it down and bargain-hunting with a desired location in mind.

Travelers can also mix and match with other money-saving techniques, like booking repositioning cruises or less popular sailing dates. “Let’s just say you have a blanket 75%-off-second-person (discount), you're gonna get a better deal with those off-season sailings than you will for the peak spring break Caribbean family cruise,” he added.

But even if a deal has caught your eye, be sure to read the fine print. Deals can come with various exclusions and conditions, and a price that looks low at first can balloon by the time you finally make the booking.

Campbell also recommended working with a travel agent. Agents see deals all year long and can lead clients to the best ones for them during wave season. “They can help filter out the noise and get you in the right place,” he said.

Wave season deals to book

◾ Crystal : The revamped luxury line is offering up to a three-category room upgrade. For select 2024 cruises, guests booking a Double Guest Room with Veranda can move to an Aquamarine Veranda Suite for free, and those in an Aquamarine Veranda Suite can upgrade to a Sapphire Veranda Suite.The deal also comes with complimentary dry cleaning for five pieces and one free bag of laundry every 10 days of a cruise, as well as complimentary pressing for five pieces per day. The deal runs through Jan. 31. The line’s World Cruise, Grand Journeys and combination cruises are not eligible.

◾ HX : HX, formerly Hurtigruten Expeditions , is offering passengers up to $2,000 per guest in flight credits and reduced deposits of 20%. The deal applies to sailings departing between March 29, 2024, and March 30, 2025, including places like Antarctica, the Galapagos Islands and Svalbard.Guests must book by March 31. The flight credit varies by destination and travelers do not have to book their air travel through the company to qualify. Members of the 1893 Ambassador loyalty program can also get discounts of as much as 10% if they book by Jan. 31.The deal is now open for members and opened for nonmembers on Tuesday.

◾ Princess Cruises : Travelers can save up to 40% off fares on select sailings between 2024 and 2026. Passengers will also get cabin upgrades in like-to-like categories. “For example, if booking the fare for the lowest priced mini-suite, the offer upgrades the location of the stateroom for free, based on availability,” the line said in a news release . The third and fourth guests in a stateroom can also sail for free.The offer runs through Feb. 29 and is available to residents of all 50 United States, Canada, Puerto Rico, Mexico, Bermuda and the District of Columbia.

Yes, cruise prices are up: Here's why cheap sailings may be harder to find

◾ Virgin Voyages : The adults-only line is offering a 70% discount for a second guest in a stateroom, along with a beverage credit of up to $600.Guests will get $100 in premium drinks for cruises four nights and shorter; $200 for five and six-night sailings; $300 for sailings between seven and 13 nights; and $600 for cruises 14 nights or more. The deal runs until Jan. 31 and applies to select voyages through Nov. 2, 2025.

Nathan Diller is a consumer travel reporter for USA TODAY based in Nashville. You can reach him at [email protected].

This Is When You Should Book a Cruise to Score the Best Deals

Wave season, which kicks off every january, is when cruise companies roll out some of the best cruise promotions of the year. these are among the top cruise deals we’ve spotted so far in 2024..

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You can save up to $3,000 when you book cruise and airfare together on select 2024 Uniworld itineraries, like this Ganges River cruise through India.

Courtesy of Uniworld Boutique River Cruises

You’ve finally landed on the cruise you want to take—maybe it’s a winter expedition to Norway to see the northern lights or perhaps you’re keen on sailing around the Galápagos to see the islands’ impossibly curious animals—but now the question is, when should you book? Is it better to secure reservations far in advance or do you stand a better chance of snagging a deal if you wait?

We polled travel advisors who specialize in cruises to better understand when the best time to book a cruise is. Here’s what they had to say.

When is the best time to book a cruise?

While there’s not necessarily a wrong time to book a cruise, there are time frames where travelers can benefit from discounts and promotions.

Beyond holiday periods such as Black Friday, Cyber Monday , and Labor Day when there may be some flash sales, January and February are particularly good times to book a cruise , as the first two months of the year are considered “wave season” in the cruising industry. It’s when companies are looking to base load their ships for the year.

“Wave season is when cruise lines announce incredible promotions in an effort to sell as much unsold space for the year as possible,” explains Jeremy Hall, a travel advisor at Cruise Vacations International.

Those promotions could include free stateroom upgrades, highly reduced cruise fares, discounts on deposits, free sailings for children, complimentary airfare, and discounted beverage packages, among other offers.

The best wave season cruise deals for 2024

AmaWaterways : River cruisers can save up to $2,000 per stateroom and earn $50 in onboard credit per stateroom on select 7- to 11-night European river sailings in July and August 2024 (including a 7-night Colors of Provence cruise, a wine-themed Burgundy sailing, and a Rhine castles and Swiss Alps cruise). For 14-night European river cruises (such as the Grand Danuba sailing) during the same period, travelers can save $4,000 per stateroom and receive $100 in onboard credit.

Aurora Expeditions : Environmentally friendly expedition operator Aurora Expeditions is offering a slew of savings on sailings to the Arctic and Antarctic in 2024 and 2025, including up to 25 percent off some itineraries and air credit on others. The savings are available on bookings made before March 31, 2024. Here’s our recent review of sailing with Aurora in the Arctic.

Azamara : Travelers can save up to $2,000 per stateroom on select 2024 sailings when booked before March 21.

Celebrity Cruises : Until February 1, cruisers can save 75 percent on their second guest’s cruise fare (specifically for nonrefundable cruises; otherwise it’s 50 percent off) for sailings from now until April 30, 2026.

Cruise Croatia: Passengers can enjoy up to 30 percent off on more than 25 departures along the Dalmatian Coast between May and October for bookings made through January 31.

Crystal Cruises : The newly relaunched luxury line Crystal is offering complimentary suite upgrades on select 2024 sailings booked before the end of January.

Emerald Cruises : Savings on this accessible luxury river cruise line include two-for-one fares and up to $3,750 off per suite on select Europe and Southeast Asia river cruise sailings. Bookings must be made by March 31.

Explora Journeys : On the recently launched cruise line Explora Journeys, passengers can save up to 40 percent on their trip when they book either an Ocean Terrace Suite or Ocean Grand Terrace Suite for sailings on Explora I (we were among the first onboard this brand-new vessel, which aims to court noncruisers ) and Explora II by January 31. The deal is applicable for sailings through April 2026. Some available trips include the 44-night A Grand Journey Connecting Continents and the 10-night A Celestial Caribbean and Creole Soul .

Holland America Line : Cruisers can save up to 40 percent on bookings made by February 29. Bonus deals include up to $500 per stateroom for onboard spending (depending on cruise length), free fares for kids, and stateroom upgrades.

Hurtigruten : From now until the end of March, cruisers can get up to $4,000 off select voyages within Norway.

HX (formerly Hurtigruten Expeditions) : For select bookings made by March 31, 2024, for departures between March 29, 2024, and March 29, 2025, HX is offering flight credits of up to $2,000.

Lindblad Expeditions : Until March 31, guests can save up to $2,000 on cabin fare and up to 40 percent on solo cabins. Here’s what recently sailing around Svalbard with Lindblad entailed.

MSC Cruises : One of the largest cruise lines in the world is offering a sale to kick off the new year. Guests who book during wave season also receive Wi-Fi for up to two devices per stateroom and up to $400 in onboard credit. Kids sail free. The deal applies to sailings in the Caribbean and North America, the Mediterranean, Northern Europe, and the Southern Caribbean through winter 2025.

Oceania’s 1,200-passenger Vista launched in 2023 and offers some of the best fine dining at sea, plus impressive solo cabins and immersive port excursions.

Courtesy of Oceania Cruises

Oceania Cruises : On these fine-dining–focused cruises , you can get up to 50 percent off per stateroom on 112 sailings in 2024 and 2025 if you book before the end of February.

Regent Seven Seas Cruises : Through February 29, ultra-luxury line Regent Seven Seas is offering an Upgrade Your Horizon promotion that gives guests a free two-category suite upgrade (up to a Penthouse Suite) on select cruises departing between now and June 2026. This past November, Regent unveiled the latest “world’s most luxurious cruise ship”: the 750-passenger, all-suite Seven Seas Grandeur with marble floors, crystal chandeliers, and exclusive art pieces.

Scenic Luxury Cruises : On Scenic’s river cruises, guests who book by March 31 can get up to $4,250 off per suite, a promotion that can be combined with Scenic’s 2-for-1 fares on 31 departures in 2024. For ocean sailings (including expedition-style cruises to Antarctica, Greenland, and Australia’s Kimberley region), guests can book 2-for-1 fares and receive up to an additional $13,000 off per suite. The discounted fares are available on more than 60 sailings in 2024 and 2025.

Seabourn : For both ocean and expedition voyages booked by January 31, guests sailing on Seabourn’s super-luxurious cruise ships can save up to 25 percent off fares and receive up to $1,000 in shipboard credit per stateroom. Maybe this is your sign to book Seabourn’s epic 90-day Africa itinerary , which will stop in 44 ports in 26 countries as it circumnavigates the continent.

Sea Cloud Cruises : For select sailings booked before February 29, cruisers can save 25 percent on the fare and receive $500 in onboard credits.

Silversea Cruises : Luxe line Silversea is offering savings of $4,000 per suite on door-to-door all-inclusive fares (which even includes pre- and post-cruise private transfers and airfare) or $2,000 per suite on port-to-port all-inclusive fares for bookings made through February 29.

Star Clippers : On select sailings aboard the Star Clipper or the Star Flyer, cruisers will receive $240 in air credits per person and $200 in onboard credits per cabin. The deals are good for bookings made by March 31.

Uniworld Boutique River Cruises: Cruisers can save up to $3,000 when they purchase cruise and airfare together on select 2024 itineraries with this boutique luxury line. This offer is valid on new bookings made through January 31 for travel in 2024.

Viking : Viking is offering special fares (with just a $25 deposit) on new bookings across its collection of river, ocean, and expedition offerings through January 31. Select voyages include free airfare.

Virgin Voyages : Through January 31, cruisers can get 70 percent off the second guest’s booking. They will also receive up to $600 off their bar tab, depending on the length of the voyage. Virgin Voyages—which launched its newest ship, the 2,770-passenger Resilient Lady , in 2023—bills itself as the perfect cruise line for people who don’t like cruises. Here’s our take .

Windstar Cruises : Book a Windstar sailing by February 29 and you can choose an additional perk, which could include a free night in a hotel (pre- or post-cruise) or up to $1,000 in onboard credit. Those who book a premium suite can upgrade to the all-inclusive fare, which includes alcohol, Wi-Fi, and gratuities. Our suggestion? Sail the Mediterranean with Windstar this winter , when there are fewer crowds and no extreme heat.

You’ll have access to a sauna with glacier views on Seabourn Venture .

Rendering courtesy of Seabourn

How far in advance should you book a cruise? Is it better to book early?

Travelers who are less concerned about deals and more focused on a specific destination or making sure they get choice accommodations may want to take a different approach to booking a cruise. Cruise companies open up bookings for sailings as early as two years in advance. While that might sound like plenty of time to mull over sailings, William Kiburz, a travel advisor at Coronet Travel , says the earlier you book, the better, especially when it comes to expedition-style or specialized cruises, as well as sailings to Alaska , as those are itineraries that often sell out more than a year in advance.

Samantha Robichaud, a travel advisor and owner of Fabulous Adventures Travel Company , says that booking early also means travelers have more choices when it comes to travel dates, staterooms, specialty dining reservations at preferred times, and shore excursions.

Todd Smith, owner of AdventureSmith Explorations , says that if you want to go on an expedition cruise, which typically involves a smaller ship, it’s imperative to book early.

“ Booking last minute also means you get what remains available instead of the best trip, ship, cabin, and program for you,” Smith says.

Another reason to try to book early: The cabin price is usually lower. “Cruise fares tend to rise as the time before departure draws closer,” Hall says. “Even though you may see a new promotion announced for the cruise you booked six months ago, chances are you got a better deal because the cruise fare more than likely went up before that new promotion was announced.”

There are often perks for guests who book early. For example, Holland America Line offers an early booking bonus that allows guests to enjoy all the benefits of the standard “Have It All” package, including shore excursion and specialty dining credit, plus included gratuity, a low-price guarantee, and upgrades to premium Wi-Fi and an “elite” beverage package, which covers all premium spirits, beers, and wines.

Is it possible to score last-minute cruise deals?

If pricing is more important than preferred accommodations, travelers can opt to wait until closer to the departure date to see if they can take advantage of any last-minute offers . It’s a bit of a gamble—you risk the ship selling out. And, in the 11th hour, flights to the port might be more expensive.

To find deals, travelers can sign up for email newsletters from various cruise lines, as the companies often send out updates on flash sales. You can also search the cruise line websites—some, like Holland America , have pages on their website dedicated to last-minute deals.

Hall says that his company typically sees more last-minute deals with river cruises than ocean cruises. He also notes that last-minute deals usually involve added amenities or a waived single supplement.

Will working with a travel advisor get me a better deal?

“There are so many ways to get a good deal on a cruise, and nobody knows better than an experienced travel advisor ,” Hall says. “There are so many promotions, amenities, loyalty programs, and pricing structures these days—it makes finding the best deal a daunting task. Your travel advisor will know precisely how to narrow down the search field to find the right cruise and deal for you.”

Robichaud echoes that sentiment, saying that travel advisors can leverage relationships with cruise companies to get discounted rates or free add-ons. And Smith notes that agencies that book a lot of cruises often receive free upgrades for their clients as an incentive from cruise lines aiming to build up a loyal network of travel advisors who sell and book their cruises.

Are there better times for families or groups to book a cruise?

Only certain ships and expeditions offer accommodations large enough to fit three or four people, so groups and families looking to stay in the same cabin should book as soon as possible because options may be limited.

As Robichaud notes, rooms that can accommodate more people tend to fill up fast during holidays and school breaks; if travelers have a specific sailing in mind, it’s essential to book early.

Judy Perl, president of Judy Perl Travel, adds that for parents looking to travel around school schedules, it’s worth noting that spring break is often the cheapest for cruising, and summer break offers more destination options. The winter holiday season is always significantly more expensive, she says.

Sailing with Celebrity? Upgrade to the Retreat, a private resort area within the ship.

Courtesy of Ryan Wicks/Celebrity Cruises

How to bid on a cabin upgrade

Just as some airlines offer the opportunity to bid for a business- or first-class seat upgrade , many cruise companies offer travelers the opportunity to bid on stateroom upgrades.

• Some cruise lines will email confirmed customers before their voyage, offering them the chance to bid on a higher class of cabin at a steeply discounted price.
• Travelers suggest a price they’re comfortable with spending.
• If the cruise company accepts the offer, guests will be charged the amount of their bid and receive an updated booking with their new room details.

Robichaud says she just got back from a Virgin Voyages sailing where she was supposed to have a Sea Terrace stateroom but won her bid for a Mega RockStar suite (complete with daily spa access, a bottomless in-room bar, a personal butler, and access to a members-only sundeck). Similarly, some companies have dedicated landing pages on their websites where guests can bid. When bidding for an upgrade online, be aware that you can’t cancel your bid once accepted (but you can cancel or change the offer before acceptance).

Upgrades are also available after you’ve boarded the ship. Perl recommends that people keen on a larger room go to the purser’s office and inquire if there have been any cancellations or no-shows. “Once the ship leaves the dock, typically, it is no longer under revenue management control back at headquarters,” Perl explains. “The ship can make their own pricing decisions about what to charge to maximize the yield on their available inventory.”

What’s worth it and what isn’t in terms of cruise add-ons?

Amenity add-ons, like beverage packages, onboard credit, Wi-Fi, laundry service, and included gratuities, only have a value if you are going to use them. A person who drinks only one glass of wine each day or someone who likes to disconnect from tech on vacation may find little worth in an unlimited drinks package or premium Wi-Fi, respectively. It’s important to know the value of these items for you and purchase accordingly.

This story was originally published in March 2023, and was updated on January 12, 2024, to include current information.

Wave Season Is the Best Time to Score Cruise Deals—Here's How

By Jessica Puckett

All products featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Travel deals can be easy to find, if you know the right time to book. For cruises , one of the best times to lock in low fares is at the start of a new year . That’s when “wave season” begins: a stretch that continues through March when cruise lines offer up some of their best deals and discounts .

Consider this the golden time to plan cruise trips through the rest of the year and beyond. “Wave season isn't necessarily about last-minute cruise deals,” says Illana Schattauer, a cruise influencer who runs the channel ‘ Life Well Cruised ’ on YouTube. “It's a great time to plan ahead for holiday cruises and bookings that are several months, even a year, in advance.”

Although the deals are aplenty, narrowing down the numerous options can be a bit more challenging. After all, there are hundreds of different cruise lines around the world , all targeting different types of travelers and promoting offers with various perks. (How do you compare a stateroom upgrade to a free drinks package or an onboard food credit?)

Below, find top strategies and tips from the experts on how to get the most of this wave season’s deals.

All listings featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. If you purchase something through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Get organized

Before you wade into the endless list of deals, discounts, and bonus offers from cruise lines around the world , take some time to identify what your budget is and what type of cruise you actually want to take. “Travelers should know what they’re looking for before starting to do the research on the cruise they would like to book,” says Jasmine Ramnarine, a frequent cruiser who blogs about her voyages with her family on the site A Rich and Jazzy Life .

This includes narrowing down your ideal destinations and a timeline of when you’d like to travel. “Once they know the month that they would like to travel in, it’s best to compare the cruise lines’ pricing and go with what best suits your needs.” Ramnarine recommends choosing at least three cruise lines to do an overall fare comparison.

But even just keeping track of all the available offers can feel like an insurmountable task, let alone combing through for the ideal discounts. One of the easiest ways of keeping tabs on new offers is subscribing to cruise lines’ email alerts. “To make it more manageable, travelers should only sign up to email offers from the cruise lines that appeal to them, and skip ones that aren't the right fit,” Schattauer says. She recommends travelers even create a separate email account just for cruise offers to keep the potential deals sorted away from other inbox clutter. That way, travelers can open their specific wave season account and start narrowing down the best options.

How to understand whether the deal is worth it

The actual work of comparing cruise offers might sound easier than it is in reality. With lines offering a wide array of perks, upgrades, and fare discounts, how can travelers find the most valuable deal ? “The best way to compare deals is to look at the total cost, as well as extra perks that are included,” says Schattauer. “Cruise travelers should keep track of pricing, so that they can book when they see a price decrease.”

While it’s easy to see the value of straightforward cheaper fares, those types of wave season savings are becoming less common. “More likely are cruise line extras that are included with the price during wave season,” says Schattauer. “Extras like drink packages, pre-paid gratuities, and onboard cash credits make cruises cheaper and can save hundreds of dollars.” She recommends breaking up the cruise itinerary into a price per day that factors in these extras—but you should only calculate the value of perks you’ll actually use.

Travelers can find a wide range of these free perks across lines, depending on what type of cruisers the company is aiming to target. “When we’re traveling with our kids , we love to see deals that include ‘kids sail free’ [offers],” says Ramnarine. “Typically, Royal Caribbean or MSC offer that. When we are just sailing alone as a couple, we’d love to see that Virgin Voyages includes a bar tab for the number of days that we are sailing—and throw in Wi-Fi.”

Be open to discounts in unconventional places, too: The biggest savings might come where you wouldn’t expect them. “More often, non-refundable deposits offer the best values to clients with substantial savings,” says Tom Baker, a travel specialist with CruiseCenter . That’s because with these stricter fares, lines can lock in cruisers and reduce cancellations, according to Baker. “The fare differences can be several hundred to thousands of dollars.”

If parsing all of the perks and potential savings seems too confusing to do on your own, don’t hesitate to pick up the phone for help. “Web pricing often offers basic fares and does not always include the value add like upgrades, onboard credits, non refundable or refundable pricing,” Baker says. “So it's really a complicated skill.” A travel specialist can sort through all of the variables and present the savings comparisons to potential clients. Speaking of which…

When it doubt, use a travel specialist

Specialists are truly the unsung heroes of the travel industry. The level of savvy and insider pull that these cruise mavens have is hard to match. “Travel agents have access to all the deals and cruise line promotions, and may have extra offers and booking incentives,” Schattauer says. “When you work with a travel agent that understands your travel preferences, they can sort through and present personalized deals.”

“Find a knowledgeable agent with experience who knows the ins and outs,” says Baker. Try to avoid agencies with massive call centers where you’re handed off to a new agent each time you call, he advises. “Use an agent that is interested in your needs and wants and not just processing a transaction.”

And it’s a misconception that cruise specialists add a hefty cost to your trip budget. “Many of them don’t charge any extra fees; they get paid through the cruise line,” Ramnarine says.

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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.

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What Price Is a Good Deal on a Cruise?

Cruise line sales, frankly, are a dime a dozen. While they can always make you feel like you’re getting a great deal on a cruise, these offers run constantly and don’t actually change the final price that much.

So what is an actual good price for a cruise? How do you know when you’re getting a deal versus overpaying?

At Cruzely, we’ve not only taken dozens of cruises but also priced out thousands of more. In fact, we’ve written extensively on how to find cruise deals . That gives us unique insight into what actually qualifies as a good price for your trip versus what’s just average.

Below, we share exactly what price we consider a deal on trips to the Caribbean, Alaska, and Europe. First, there is some background you need to know about what constitutes a good deal on your vacation.

Defining What a Good Deal Means Depends on Several Factors

While we offer up one basic price per night to judge your cruise deal against, the truth is that this is the most basic measure. Truth is that even if you have a good base price, you’re likely to end up paying considerably for your trip . That’s because there’s a lot that goes into selecting your specific cruise that will impact the price.

For simplicity, we’re considering the daily price of the trip for a basic interior cabin for one person, before taxes and fees . The price you pay will vary depending on many factors, including:

Cruise Line: Different cruise lines offer different price points. Some, such as MSC and Carnival, are known for value. Others like Celebrity or NCL are known for charging higher prices. For our purposes, we’ve considered the pricing of major lines, not relatively small luxury lines.

Ship: Even within a cruise line, there can be different pricing for different ships. Newer ships tend to have a pricing premium over older vessels. Thus, you’ll typically find better deals on the older ships.

Time of Year: By far the biggest factor in what you’ll pay for a cruise is when you sail. The same cruise to the Caribbean in the low season (such as February or October) can be hundreds less than the trip in the peak of summer. That means you likely won’t find a good deal on a cruise if sailing at high demand times.

Room Type: As mentioned, the pricing we’ve detailed below is per person for the most basic interior cabin. If you want a balcony, suite, or other type of room, then you’ll definitely pay a higher price. Even so, if the interior cabin meets the mark of a good deal, then you can assume that you’re also getting a good deal on the balcony as well, despite a higher price.

Don’t Forget Other Costs: Unfortunately, what you spend on the cruise will be much more than cruise fare. In addition to the fare, you’ll also have port fees and taxes, gratuities, anything you spend onboard, and transportation costs to and from the port. In other words, you can expect to spend considerably more overall than just the per-night prices mentioned below.

What’s a Good Deal on a Caribbean Cruise: $70 Per Night

When it comes to cruising, the most popular spot on the planet is the Caribbean. In this case, we’re talking about everything from The Bahamas to Mexico and all points in between. Here, you have year-round trips, and while summer is definitely the busy season, there are lots of options any time of year.

As well, you’ll find that all the major cruise lines sail this area, with thousands of departures across ports from Texas to Florida to New York.

With all of those options on lines, ships, and itineraries, it shouldn’t be a surprise that this is where you’ll also find the best deals. In fact, if you sail a short cruise on an older ship in the off-season, you can find fares starting at under $200 in total. However, newer ships and peak season can lead to fares soaring — sometimes into thousands of dollars.

In general, we’d suggest a starting cruise fare at $70 or under per person, per night represents the mark of a good deal. This works out to a starting price of $280 for a four-night cruise or $490 for a seven-night trip. Remember, when you add in fees, taxes, room upgrades and more, the cost of your cruise will be significantly higher. Still, if you want to know you got a deal then $70 a night in cruise fare is a good measuring stick .

The good news is that in many cases you can find rates significantly below this mark. Value lines such as MSC and Carnival regularly offer trips that cost less. If you want to go even further, we’d suggest that a rate under $50 per night constitutes a great deal. This would be $350 for a seven-night cruise, which is rare but does happen.

What’s a Good Deal on Alaskan Cruise: $85 Per Night

If you have yet to sail to Alaska, then you don’t know what you’re missing . This is one of the most awe-inspiring areas of the planet and there is arguably no better way to see it than by cruise ship.

Cruise lines have ramped up their Alaskan offerings in recent years giving you more options than ever. Still, the Alaska cruise season is somewhat restrained due to weather. It runs from April through October, with the peak season (and highest prices) being in June, July, and August.

Given the distance and short season providing fewer options than the Caribbean, it shouldn’t be a surprise that sailing to Alaska is generally more expensive. That said, there is not an outrageous difference.

We find that sailings starting at $85 per person, per night represent a good deal for passengers . That comes out to a price of $595 for a week-long cruise.

If you sail in the “shoulder” months like April, May, September, or October, then these rates can be found rather easily — especially on older ships. As well, certain lines like Princess seem to generally have lower fares across the board, so we suggest being open to multiple lines. We’ve also found that sailing from Vancouver instead of Seattle tends to be less expensive. However, it can cost more to travel to Vancouver for many American passengers.

Want a great deal to Alaska? We suggest anything lower than $500 per person, per week — or around $70 per night.

What’s a Good Deal on a European Cruise: $110 Per Night

For many passengers, a European cruise is a “bucket list” vacation. With these trips you can visit multiple world-famous cities and historical landmarks in a matter of days and with only unpacking your suitcase one time.

If you’ve wanted to sail Europe, then you should know a few things regarding pricing. First, in general you’ll find trips are more expensive than you might be used to if you’ve sailed North America. So be prepared to pay a little more than you have before.

But on the positive side, there is also a wider range of pricing than what you find in other parts of the world. For instance, you can sail some cruises aboard MSC starting at less than $300 for a seven-night cruise. Other lines regularly price cruises for hundreds more, even for the cheapest fares.

We’d suggest that a good price for a European cruise starts at around $110 per night across the industry, or $770 for a week. That does come with the caveat that certain lines offer rates that are drastically lower in price (specifically MSC and Costa Cruises). These cruise lines can see one-week cruise fares in the $300-$500 range, making them ideal if overall cost is the biggest factor in planning your vacation.

As well, you want to keep in mind that European cruises can encompass several different regions from the Mediterranean to Northern Europe to Scandinavia. Different regions will see different pricing.

More on Finding Cruise Deals:

10 Rules to Getting the Best Deal on a Cruise

• 12 Cheap Cruises Under $500 Per Person
• 10 Cheap Alaskan Cruises (Starting at Just $249)

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Nice write up. Any thoughts on Australia & New Zealand?

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How to Find Last-Minute Cruise Deals

With the rising cost of hotels and airfare, cruises are still one of the most affordable ways to travel.

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Cruising on a budget? There are many resources available for travelers looking to save money.

Cruising is back – in a big way – after all the turmoil and shutdowns in the industry during the COVID-19 pandemic.

According to Cruise Lines International Association's 2023 State of the Cruise Industry report, the intent to cruise is higher now than it was in December 2019, before the pandemic. About 85% of travelers who have been on a cruise will cruise again, which is 6% higher than it was pre-COVID.

John Lovell, president of the Travel Leaders Group division of Internova Travel Group, tells us, "Cruising has roared back since the pandemic and the lifting of sailing restrictions. It's a true success story! That means that we will see (and are seeing) full ships, even more so than pre-pandemic." He adds, "While Caribbean cruises remain popular, travelers are embracing river cruises, expedition cruises, smaller ships and off-the-beaten-path ports. There really is a cruise for everyone."

CLIA's report also states that passenger volume for 2023 is projected to reach an astounding 31.5 million passengers – 106% of the volume in 2019. In addition, the cruise industry is seeing higher numbers of solo travelers and people with mobility challenges – and there are more Gen X and millennials booking cruise vacations.

Chris Gray Faust, the executive editor of Cruise Critic, says that cancellation policies have also returned to normal with cruise bookings back to pre-pandemic levels, particularly for mainstream lines like Royal Caribbean International and Carnival Cruise Line . You also probably won't find many deals on sailings in high season and on the most anticipated new ships .

With more demand for cruise travel – one of the fastest-growing sectors of tourism – how can you find a last-minute cruise deal in 2023? Read on to find out how to book your dream cruise vacation for less.

When to find the best cruise deals

Scoring a great cruise deal depends on several factors, including the type of experience you're looking for ( adults-only or family-friendly , for example), the destination, the length of the sailing, the time of year and your flexibility to travel.

Lovell recommends booking early for the best pricing. "For many cruise lines, especially the expedition products and with some luxury lines, the best time to find deals is when they open new sailings," he says. "The cruises fill up quickly, so usually the best offer is the first offering in terms of pricing. Some of the larger cruise lines will have pricing and value-added promotions on sailings that still have open space about 100 days prior to sailing."

Summer 2023

If you're planning on traveling within the next few months, you may be able to score a last-minute cruise deal to some destinations, such as Alaska . According to Bob Levinstein, CEO of CruiseCompete.com, "There are still some great deals for the summer, especially in Alaska, which is particularly soft right now."

A representative from Priceline notes that the travel agency is also offering great deals for summer cruises to Alaska, the Caribbean and the Mediterranean.

When you're looking at pricing for cruises, be sure to compare fares that include the same costs, Levinstein advises. Some advertised fares that seem like an incredible deal don't include the port taxes and fees, which can substantially raise the price of your vacation.

Within 90 days of sailing

Gray Faust says the window for finding last-minute cruise deals is within 90 days of a sailing. "That three-month mark is when final deposits are due on a cruise, and historically the last point you could cancel your cruise without financial penalty," she says. "At that point, cruise lines try to fill those vacant cabins, usually in the form of slashed fares to entice people to book."

Levinstein agrees. "While the market has heated up, the closer-in the sailing the more likely you will find a bargain." He adds, "But as last-minute deals are based on how full a particular sailing on a particular ship might be at a given time, shopping around is often rewarded regardless of overall market conditions."

Fall or spring

You may find cheaper cruise fares if you're able to book a last-minute cruise departing in the spring or fall when most families with children in school can't travel. As such, cruise lines typically have more availability and lower pricing during these times.

Wave season

If you're willing to book a cruise during the promotional period known as "wave season" – which spans early January through the end of March – you may be able to find a last-minute cruise deal that fits your budget.

Hurricane season

Planning a last-minute cruise during hurricane season in the Caribbean and Mexico – from June 1 to Nov. 30 – is another option. These months coincide with the shoulder season in those regions, so it can be a great time to find cruise savings. If you do book a cruise during hurricane season, consider investing in a travel insurance policy that has trip interruption and trip cancellation benefits. You'll also want to make sure that all of your prepaid and nonrefundable expenses are covered in the policy.

Read: The Best Cruise Insurance Plans

Early December

Levinstein says the first two weeks of December are also a great time to take a cruise. Early December is typically when families are preparing for the holidays at home or getting ready to travel at the end of the month for Christmas and New Year's, so it's an ideal time to go on a cruise for less.

Book a last-minute cruise deal on GoToSea , a service of U.S. News.

How to find last-minute cruise deals

Cruise line sites

If you're internet-savvy and don't mind perusing the cruise lines' websites individually, check out their advertised discounted fares, included amenities and special bonus exclusive offers. These special fares often include free upgrades, airfare and credit for onboard spending. The types and level of perks may increase depending on the stateroom category.

For example, Norwegian Cruise Line offers a number of Free at Sea offers. These deals include unlimited open bar, shore excursion credits, dining at specialty restaurants, complimentary Wi-Fi and discounted rates for the second guest. Third and fourth guests staying in the same stateroom even get to sail for free with some deals.

In addition to the Free at Sea offers, Norwegian features CruiseFirst, a special bonus offer that essentially allows cruisers to earn free money. For example, if you purchase a $150 CruiseFirst certificate today for a six-day or longer voyage, it will double in value and you'll have $300 to spend on a cruise that you can take as early as 120 days from the purchase date. The certificates expire within three years.

If you're looking for reduced fares on a luxury cruise, it'll likely be more challenging to find a last-minute deal, with even lengthy – and expensive – world cruises selling out within hours. Levinstein explains this is because there's more demand than supply, when compared with the entry-level market.

Tips on Trips and Expert Picks

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

Cruise deal aggregator sites

If you prefer to use cruise deal aggregator sites, you can find last-minute cruises across the industry all in one place. Simply sort your findings by the month you'd like to travel, the length of your intended trip and where you wish to cruise. These are some of the best resources for finding cruise discounts:

• Cruise Critic
• Tripadvisor
• Cruise Compete

"Some lines began steering away from last-minute fare drops a few years ago, so keep an eye out for value-add deals as well," Gray Faust says. "While you might not get a super cheap base fare, things like free gratuities, drink packages and/or shore excursions could actually save you even more than you'd save on a slashed price."

'Kids sail free' fares

Some cruise lines allow kids to sail free , greatly reducing the total price of and/or adding value to your cruise. MSC Cruises allows guests ages 17 and younger to cruise for free year-round when they're the third and fourth passengers in the same stateroom with their parents. If you're considering a family cruise, check out the other cruise lines that offer similar promotions where children sail free, including Holland America Line and Norwegian.

Book a family cruise on  GoToSea , a service of U.S. News.

Cruise line loyalty programs

Consider joining your preferred cruise line's loyalty and membership programs for free upgrades. These are some of the best options:

• Carnival Cruise Line's VIFP Club:  This program features up to 40% discounts off fares, up to $50 in onboard credits, access to exclusive deals and other perks. Carnival VIFP members receive a loyalty number and can watch their points and rewards accrue online.
• Viking Cruises ' Explorer Society:   Viking's program offers past cruisers travel credits to use on future voyages, as well as members-only cocktail parties on the ship. Members are also privy to new itineraries and limited-time offers.
• Princess Cruises ' Captain's Circle:  Benefits with the Captain's Circle are based on the number of cruises you've taken. Some perks include early access to new itineraries, discounts for the onboard retail shops and excursions, complimentary minibar setups, priority disembarkation, access to the Platinum and Elite lounges, complimentary wine tasting events, and more.
• Norwegian Cruise Line's Latitudes Rewards:  This tiered program allows cruisers to earn discounts on select Norwegian products and services, such as beverage packages and signature spa treatments. You also get priority check-in, an exclusive cocktail party while on board, laundry service and more.

Cruise deal aggregator loyalty programs

You can also find loyalty programs through sites such as Expedia. An Expedia Rewards membership is free and offers discounts on travel; depending on your level (Blue, Silver or Gold), there are additional perks and benefits. You also earn rewards points to use toward booking future trips.

"On the Expedia website and through nearly 300 Expedia Cruises retail locations across North America, Expedia offers Member Prices, saving travelers up to 10% on last-minute deals, along with exclusive promotions on a variety of cruises," a company spokesperson says. "Expedia also secures special rates in advance on the most popular itineraries and cruise lines through the Expedia Exclusive Staterooms program. Most of all, travelers can reach out to one of Expedia's Vacation Consultants who can help navigate the current environment, answer any questions and help find the best value on their ideal vacations."

Read:  The Best Travel Rewards Programs

Travel advisors

Enlisting the help of a knowledgeable travel advisor can make planning easier – and it's one of the best ways to find last-minute cruise deals. Advisors, especially those specializing in cruises, usually have unique access to perks and discounts for big savings with cruise lines that can further enhance the value of your vacation and/or lower the total price.

Lovell agrees with this tip. "Demand for cruising is very high. I would always recommend booking early and working with a travel advisor," he says. "While there are lots of new ships, they often fill up quickly since travelers are eager to try out the latest and greatest the cruise lines have to offer."

Some aggregator sites also have their own travel advisors to assist in your search. Head of Priceline Cruises Denise Bialek says, "We highly recommend calling one of our Priceline Cruise advisors, as they are the most knowledgeable about the best rate options, know how to combine promotions to get the best deal and will save you time navigating the plethora of cruise lines, cabin categories, pricing, port charges and more." She adds, "An advantage of booking with one of our Priceline Cruise advisors is access to all cruise line offers and loyalty perks, in addition to our many Priceline exclusive deals, all supported by 24/7 service."

Additionally, keep in mind that travel advisors have insight into additional restrictions and the condition of each cruise line.

All-inclusive cruises

Though it may seem counterintuitive, you may be able to score a better value by booking an all-inclusive (or mostly all-inclusive) voyage than a budget cruise with a cheaper base fare. While these options are primarily in the luxury cruise line category, some fares are especially attractive thanks to included airfare costs, transfers to the ship, meals at all dining venues, premium wines and spirits, Wi-Fi access, and more.

When you book one of these cruises, you'll know the total cost upfront, and there won't be any unwanted surprises when you close out your shipboard account at the end of the cruise. Some of the traditional extras on noninclusive cruise lines – like bottled water, snacks, specialty coffee, gratuities or even beach equipment rentals on the line's private island – can add up quickly, diminishing the impact of your original fare savings. These are some of the all-inclusive cruise options:

• Viking Ocean Cruises:  On  Viking Ocean Cruises , travelers enjoy veranda staterooms; all meals (including alternative dining); beer, wine and soft drinks with lunch and dinner; one complimentary excursion in every port; and more, all in the base fares.
• Silversea Cruises:  Silversea Cruises  boasts door-to-door all-inclusive fares that encompass private transfers, gourmet meals, butler service, beverages and at least one complimentary excursion in every port.
• Regent Seven Seas Cruises:  Regent Seven Seas Cruises  offers two-for-one all-inclusive fares that also feature business class airfare on international flights, free two- or three-night land programs, a one-night pre-cruise hotel stay, free unlimited beverages and open bars, complimentary dining in specialty restaurants, unlimited Wi-Fi, shore excursions, prepaid gratuities, and more.

These lines also offer other discounts, and you may be able to combine them with exclusive offers that your travel advisor can access. Book an all-inclusive cruise on  GoToSea , a service of U.S. News.

Short cruises

Three- to five-night cruises generally equate to instant savings since they have lower fares than voyages lasting a week or longer. You may also be able to drive to the port, saving on airfare and other travel expenses. If you sail from ports in Florida or Texas, you can visit destinations in the Bahamas, the Caribbean and Mexico; ports of call may include stops at private, cruise line-owned islands like Royal Caribbean International's Perfect Day at CocoCay in the Bahamas.

If you're in the northeast U.S., you can book a short sailing to Bermuda  aboard a few different lines. Bermuda sailings with Carnival Cruises depart from New York City and Norfolk, Virginia, while Royal Caribbean sails to the nearby island from New York City and Baltimore .

From Los Angeles , embark on four-night Royal Caribbean cruises to Catalina Island and Ensenada, Mexico. With Celebrity Cruises , passengers can book six-night voyages that call on select California cities and Vancouver . The line also offers six-night, round-trip sailings from Los Angeles to Cabo San Lucas, Mexico.

Shorter itineraries are less expensive not only because of their length, but also because they typically don't use the cruise lines' newest, largest vessels. Still, some ships have been updated, including Royal Caribbean's Freedom of the Seas, which underwent a $116 million amplification in 2020. Its upcoming itineraries make short trips between Miami and the Bahamas.

Repositioning cruises

Repositioning cruises are another option for booking a great cruise deal. The price on these voyages is less expensive since most of the days are spent at sea as the ships move from one region of the world to another. The itineraries are longer, so you'll need to have a flexible schedule for extended travel.

One of the pros of booking these cruises is that you'll get to see incredible destinations like Hawaii, Australia, Fiji, Portugal, Spain and Italy – with considerable savings. If you enjoy spending time on board the ship and don't need a port of call to explore every day, then this may be a great cost-saving option to consider.

For example, Celebrity has a 16-night Mediterranean Passage Transatlantic sailing from Rome to Tampa, Florida , in November 2023. The sailing includes eight ports and nine sea days, with fares starting at $899 per person.

Want to plan a cruise? See the top cruises on  GoToSea , a service of U.S. News.

Email alerts

Sign up for email alerts to receive updates on discounted pricing through the cruise line websites, travel aggregators or your travel advisor. That way, you'll be the first to know about limited-time offers, last-minute deals or value-adds that may make the price just right.

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Gwen Pratesi has been an avid cruiser since her early 20s. She has sailed to destinations around the globe on nearly every type of cruise ship built, including the newest megaships, luxury yachts and traditional masted sailing ships. Most recently, she traveled on a small expedition vessel in Antarctica and crossed the notorious Drake Passage twice. She covers the travel and culinary industries for major publications, including U.S. News & World Report.

You may also be interested in:

• The Best Cruise Lines for the Money
• Cruise Packing List: Essentials to Bring
• How Much Does a Cruise Cost?
• The Trick to Finding Cheap Flights

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Amazing Deals: How to Find Discounted Luxury Cruises

C ruising is an excellent way to explore more of the world, and for some travelers, it's especially ideal. They can see multiple destinations during their vacation and feel less overwhelmed about the trip's logistics because most of the planning details are handled already. Cruise deals are an excellent option for cruisers who want to avoid overpaying for travel.

Standard cruise lines aren't the only brands that promote cruise deals. You can book discounted luxury cruises if you prefer more luxury amenities while traveling. Are you ready to set sail? Here are four tips to help you find luxury cruise deals that won't drain your bank account .

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1. Act fast to lock in the lowest prices

Luxury cruise lines typically offer the best prices to those who book early. As more travelers book, prices rise due to greater demand and reduced cabin availability. Last-minute cruise deals exist, but there are no guarantees that you'll be able to score a last-minute deal -- so don't delay. If you want to book a specific luxury cruise, make your reservation as early as possible to get the best price.

2. Browse cruise deal websites for promotions

If you want to book a luxury cruise without the high price tag, it can be beneficial to dig into websites that aggregate cruise deals. These websites highlight the latest cruise sales to help travelers like you get the best deal. Here are a few cruise deal websites to consider:

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• Cruises.com
• CruiseDirect
• Cruise Critic

3. Consider booking an entry-level cabin

You may also be able to save money another way: check the pricing for entry-level cabins. You can enjoy the many benefits of sailing with a luxury brand without having to spring for a premium cabin with a higher price tag. You'll enjoy the same food, amenities, and service.

Entry-level cabins are smaller than premium cabins, but generally, the cabins on luxury cruise ships are much bigger than those found on ships for more mainstream lines. The best part is you'll still be treated like a VIP -- but you'll get a better deal on the price of your cruise.

4. Look to your favorite luxury brands for sales

Luxury cruise lines aren't known for having frequent sales, but you can still score a deal if you find a sale. If a specific cruise isn't doing as well, a luxury brand may run a sale to fill more cabins. Follow luxury cruise lines on social media and sign up for email newsletters so you don't miss out on upcoming sales that could help you stretch your vacation budget further.

Make dreams of taking a luxury cruise a reality

Even on a tight budget, you can cruise the world in style. Use the above tips to find more affordable luxury cruise options. If the higher price point is holding you back, begin setting aside money in your vacation fund. Every little bit saved adds up and gets you close to your goal.

Over time, your savings will grow and you'll have the money you need to book an exciting cruise adventure in the future. But make sure you keep your savings in a high-yield savings account so you earn interest. For additional money-saving tips, check out our personal finance resources .

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5 reasons to turn down a cruise ship cabin upgrade

Turn down a cruise cabin upgrade? You might think it sounds ridiculous — and you're right. If a cruise offers me a free suite, I'm certainly not going to say no.

The sad truth is free upgrades are rare. The days of surprise upgrades from your cozy inside cabin to a spacious balcony room are mostly over.

Nowadays, cruise lines expect you to pay for your cruise ship cabin upgrades. Free upgrades , when offered, are hardly ever as good as they sound and are typically from one room to another within the same cabin category.

If you're going to pay good money for an upgrade, be positive your new digs are much better than the original room you picked. If they're not, tell the cruise line they do not have a deal. Here are five reasons to turn down a cruise ship cabin upgrade.

For more cruise news, reviews and tips, sign up for TPG's free cruise newsletter .

You can't pick your cabin location

An upgrade is essentially the same as booking a guarantee cabin — a type of room where your cabin category is guaranteed, but your specific room location is not. You agree to let the cruise line pick your cabin in exchange for giving you a discount on that room. You give up the right to control where on the ship your cabin is located.

If you're prone to seasickness and prefer a midship cabin on a lower deck, you might not want an upgrade that could land you at the very front or back of the ship where it's rockier.

If you're sensitive to noise and specifically chose a room far away from the elevators and the noisy Lido Deck, you will want to say no to a cabin upgrade that can't guarantee a quiet locale.

Travel groups that purposefully booked rooms near each other should not accept upgrades that would split them among different decks.

RELATED: 8 cabin locations you should definitely avoid

When that cruise ship cabin upgrade offer arrives, think about how strongly you feel about where your cabin is located. If location is important, you will want to turn down the upgrade offer.

It's too expensive

Not all cruise cabin upgrades are free. Typically, the cruise line will offer the upgrade at a discount, meaning you'll pay less for the upgraded room than it would cost to book it outright, but more than what you paid for your original cabin.

No matter how good a deal that seems, if money is tight, don't take the upgrade. Save your vacation budget for tours and shoreside fun or onboard treats like date-night restaurants and fun cocktails.

After all, you'll get a bed and bathroom no matter which cabin you choose, but you won't have as much fun if you have no budget left to spend once you're on board.

Related: 15 ways that cruisers waste money on ships

You booked a specific cabin type

Some travelers need specific cabins. Cruisers who use a wheelchair or have mobility difficulties purposefully book accessible cabins with roll-in showers and wider doorways. Families book connecting cabins or designated family-friendly rooms with an extra bathroom or that can sleep five or six. Wellness enthusiasts book spa cabins for their Zen-like decor and thermal suite perks.

If you have booked a specific type of cabin for a reason, do not accept an upgrade offer. Usually, the cruise line cannot guarantee they will upgrade you from one accessible or spa cabin to a nicer one. In addition, upgrade offers apply to a single cabin, not a pair of connecting rooms.

You might not get all the perks

Complimentary perks are a popular booking incentive used by several cruise lines. Depending on the type of cabin you book, you're rewarded with onboard credit or your choice of several freebies, such as an included drink package or shore excursion credit.

When you accept an upgrade offer, you won't receive the booking perks associated with the higher-category room (though you will receive any room-based perks, like concierge access or priority debarkation). Worse, you could actually lose the perks you already have.

RELATED: The 5 most desirable cabin locations on any cruise ship

How? If you booked a cruise and then notice that prices have fallen, you can give yourself an upgrade by rebooking a nicer cabin at a lower price. In doing so, you will often lose your previous booking perks and be eligible only for the current promotion.

For example, if you booked a promotion offering free Wi-Fi and a $100 onboard credit, but the current offer focuses on low prices and a $50 onboard credit, you might lose the internet package and half the onboard credit when you rebook to upgrade your cabin.

Decide whether the trade-off between a nicer cabin and your existing booking perks is worth it. If not, don't go for the cabin upgrade.

The upgrade isn't good enough

You should only say yes to a cruise cabin upgrade if it will get you a nicer cabin. However, what a cruise line deems a better cabin might not actually be worth more money in your eyes.

For example, cruise lines break down all the cabins within the same category (for example, all outside cabins) into subcategories, based on location, layout, size and perks. A midship inside cabin on an upper deck might be deemed more desirable and priced higher than an inside cabin on a lower deck at the back of the ship.

A cruise line might offer you a same-category upgrade, moving from one balcony cabin to a "better" balcony cabin, rather than to a mini-suite. If you don't care about cabin location, don't take the cabin upgrade. You'll end up paying more for a room that's essentially the same as the one you booked for less.

If the upgrade is free, or if the new cabin comes with extras you will use (such as concierge access or spa perks), consider saying yes. However, if the cost of the upgrade is not worth whatever benefits the new room has, politely decline the cruise cabin upgrade.

Bottom line

In many cases, a cruise ship cabin upgrade will get you a better cabin — roomier accommodations, a better ship location, and maybe extra perks. However, not all upgrade offers are desirable, especially if what you value in a cabin type and location is not what the cruise line will give you. Don't hesitate to say no to an upgrade if the offer does not represent good value for your money.

Planning a cruise? Start with these stories:

• The 5 most desirable cabin locations on any cruise ship
• A beginners guide to picking a cruise line
• The 8 worst cabin locations on any cruise ship
• The ultimate guide to what to pack for a cruise
• A quick guide to the most popular cruise lines
• 21 tips and tricks that will make your cruise go smoothly
• Top ways cruisers waste money
• The ultimate guide to choosing a cruise ship cabin