cheap cruises under 500

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12 Cheap Cruises Under $500 Per Person

Cruising is often considered to be one of the most cost-effective vacation options available. You are free to spend any amount of money you like, yes (including tens of thousands of dollars on the fanciest rooms, if you feel so inclined). On the other hand, there is another end of the spectrum where you can obtain a fantastic vacation for very little money.

You’ll find a dozen vacations on that list that will take you to some of the most beautiful beaches in the world for less than three dollars per person. However, despite the popularity of those cruises , most people can only afford to go on a cruise for a few days at a time on a budget of that size.

As a result, we broadened our search and came up with this list of cruises that cost less than $500. Your range of options will significantly broaden if you are willing to spend an additional several hundred dollars per person. The fact that you can afford many cruises that are at least a week long is probably the best news.

The cruises that are listed here are not necessarily the least expensive ones that are available. Instead, we have highlighted a number of vacations that can be taken for less than $500 and are either exceptional or exceptional values for a variety of reasons. This includes a trip aboard one of the largest cruise ships in the world, and some of the cheapest trips aboard a newer ship that we’ve seen.

The prices shown below are accurate as of the time this article was written but are subject to change. Before taxes and fees for the port, each and every fare is calculated on a per-person basis for inside cabins.

Cruise with Carnival for 6 Nights in the Caribbean , Departing From Miami

22 October, 2023 is the date.

Ocho Rios, Grand Cayman, and Cozumel are some of the ports that the Carnival Horizon will visit.

Price: $369

During this trip that departs from Miami, you will have the opportunity to sail to Mexico, Jamaica, and the Cayman Islands. Oh, and did we also mention that it will take place on the Carnival Horizon, which is one of the newest ships in the cruise line ‘s fleet?

You got that right. A fantastic trip onboard one of the cruise line’s newest ships can be had for less than $400 per person (for an internal stateroom), and it will take you all over the world. The vast majority of the time, the charges on the newest ships are significantly higher because of the increased demand from passengers.

Cruise with Carnival for 6 Nights in the Caribbean, Departing From Tampa

Date: December 3, 2023

Cozumel, Belize City, and Costa Maya are some of the ports that the Carnival Pride will visit.

Price: $409

This list is not intended to be of the cruises that are currently available for the lowest possible price . Instead, it is a compilation of reasonably priced cruises that visit a variety of ports and destinations. If you wish to depart from the port of Tampa, then this cruise, despite the fact that it is not the most affordable option you will find, is an excellent deal for you.

Cozumel, Belize City, and Costa Maya are three fantastic ports in the Caribbean that you will visit in December while you are on this six-night cruise . Right before the hectic pace of the holidays begins, this is an excellent time to kick back and unwind.

Norwegian Cruise Line will provide a five-night trip to Mexico departing from Los Angeles.

October 31st, 2023 is the date.

Cabo San Lucas and Ensenada are the ports of call for the Norwegian Bliss .

Price: $497

This cruise might not be the best offer in terms of the total cost, given that you can sail for a longer period of time on other cruise lines for a lower total cost. NCL is well-known for its practise of charging a premium, particularly on its more recent ships.

This vacation is a short getaway from Los Angeles, and it’s going to take place on the Pacific coast of Mexico. Before making your way back to Los Angeles, you will make a stop in Cabo San Lucas as well as Ensenada. The voyage will be taken on Norwegian Bliss, one of the line’s most recent ships, which was constructed in 2018.

Royal Caribbean is offering a 7-Night Caribbean Cruise Departing From Galveston.

The date will be October 15th, 2023.

Roatan, Costa Maya, and Cozumel are some of the ports that the Allure of the Seas will visit.

Price: $441

Historically speaking, Royal Caribbean charges a somewhat higher rate per person than its primary competitor, Carnival. In spite of this, there are still good offers to be had. In this instance, it will take place on board one of the most massive cruise ships afloat in the world.

This journey onboard the Allure of the Seas departs from Galveston, which is close to Houston, and lasts for seven nights. The cost per person is only $441. You will make stops in Roatan, Costa Maya, and Cozumel, three of the most popular ports along the route.

The Oasis-class ships, of which the Allure of the Seas is a member, hold the title of the world’s largest cruise ships . They are able to provide an experience that is unlike any other type of ships that can be found anywhere on the planet because of their massive size. And cruisers departing from Houston, which is a relatively close drive away, will find that all of these locations are easily accessible by car.

MSC Cruises presents a 7-Night Bahamas and Mexico Cruise Departing From Port Canaveral.

Date: September 17, 2023

Ocean Cay, Costa Maya, and Cozumel are some of the ports where the MSC Seaside calls home.

Price: $399

It’s possible that many cruisers from the United States have never heard of MSC, even though the company has a significant presence in Europe. However, if you are searching for discounts, they are a wonderful cruise company to consider considering because they offer a lot of voyages from Florida that are on the cheaper side.

This voyage will take passengers from Port Canaveral, which is located close to Orlando, to the cruise line’s private island, Ocean Cay. After then, it travels to the southwest to the Yucatan peninsula, where it makes stops in Costa Maya and Cozumel before heading back to its starting point.

Cruise on Celebrity for 6 Nights in the Caribbean, Departing From Fort Lauderdale

The ship’s name was the Celebrity Reflection, and the ports of call were Grand Cayman, Cozumel, and Bimini.

Price: $428

A luxury cruise line, Celebrity is a cut above mass-market cruise lines such as Royal Caribbean or Carnival in terms of service and amenities. To put it another way, there is typically an added cost associated with sailing the line. This trip will take you to Grand Cayman, Cozumel, and Bimini in The Bahamas. It will depart from Fort Lauderdale. At only $428, it is an affordable opportunity to have a taste of a higher-end cruise to see if it is something you would enjoy doing in the future.

Cruise aboard Royal Caribbean for 6 Nights in the Caribbean, Departing From Miami

Date: April 9, 2023

CocoCay, Grand Cayman, and Falmouth are some of the ports that the Explorer of the Seas will visit.

Price: $431

The total cost of this cruise, which includes sailing for six nights, is less than $450. Additionally, it includes a visit to CocoCay, a private island belonging to Royal Caribbean. The cruise line invested hundreds of millions of dollars to transform the island into a fully functional destination, complete with its very own waterpark.

From there, it travels to Grand Cayman and Falmouth in Jamaica before finally arriving back in Miami.

A 7-Night Carnival Cruise Departing From Port Canaveral Into the Caribbean

Date: December 2, 2023

Mardi Gras is the ship, and San Juan, Amber Cove, and Grand Turk are its ports of call.

Price: $539

This cruise has a price tag that is just a hair higher than the $500 mark, but it is one that we believe is much too wonderful of a value not to mention. This particular excursion is for a weeklong cruise on the Mardi Gras and costs $539 for an inside cabin for the duration of the trip. The ship in question belongs to Carnival’s Excel-class and features an entirely unique design in comparison to any other vessel in the company’s fleet. The ship also has the very first roller coaster to ever be installed on a ship.

You will travel to San Juan, Amber Cove, and Grand Turk in addition to the ship, which is sure to be one of the highlights of the trip.

5-Night Norwegian Cruise Departing From New York For the Caribbean

Date: November 10, 2023

The ship’s name is the Norwegian Escape, and its ports are in Bermuda at the Royal Naval Dockyard.

Price: $442

When one thinks of cruising, New York City is probably not the first place that comes to mind. However, that port is a departure point for all of the major cruise lines. Because of the Bahamas’ relative isolation, journey times are typically more drawn out. However, we discovered that this voyage aboard the Norwegian Escape to Bermuda would only last for five days. That means a lot of time on the ship, but Escape is large and new enough to find plenty to do

Date: November 5, 2023

Ship: Harmony of the Seas | Ports: Roatan, Costa Maya, Cozumel,

Price: $471

This trip is a step up from a 7-night cruise, which is already a lot of fun in and of itself. This is due to the fact that it will take place on the Harmony of the Seas, which is one of the largest cruise ships afloat today. Because of its size, the ship provides guests with access to a unique experience that cannot be found on any other cruise ship . This contains features for adults on this type of ships such as the Flowrider standing wave, the Aqua Theater, and the enormous Solarium.

Passengers will make pit stops in Roatan, Costa Maya, and Cozumel during this time. Additionally, it departs in November, providing customers with the opportunity to avoid the beginning of winter at home and enjoy some sunshine before the winter vacations.

7-Night Carnival Cruise to the Caribbean Departing From New Orleans

Date: September 3, 2023

Carnival Glory is the name of the ship, and Montego Bay, Grand Cayman, and Cozumel are its ports of call.

Price: $469

There are low-cost cruises available from ports all around Florida, not just southern Florida. In the month of September, passengers on this Carnival Glory cruise will set sail from New Orleans. During the course of the voyage, you will make port calls in Montego Bay (Jamaica), Grand Cayman, and Cozumel, among other places. Because it takes place immediately after children go back to class, it is especially convenient for adults who do not have children.

Bonus Cruise:

7-Night MSC Cruise Departing From New York to the Caribbean

Date: February 4, 2024

The ship’s name is the MSC Meraviglia , and its ports of call are Port Canaveral, Ocean Cay, and Nassau.

Price: $299

The MSC Meraviglia, a relatively new ship that is widely regarded as one of the most beautiful cruise liners available, will be our home for the duration of the final cruise on our itinerary. This cruise will take you from New York during the middle of winter and transport you to sunny Florida, as well as Ocean Cay, which is MSC’s private island, and Nassau. The voyage will last for one week. It is not necessary to spend a fortune in order to enjoy a weeklong vacation. We were able to find rates beginning at $299 per person to get away from the harsh winter.

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How can i find a cheap cruise.

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

What is the cheapest month to take a cruise?

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

Can I cancel my cruise booking?

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

Are river cruises worth the money?

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

What cruises are best for families?

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

How much does a cruise ship cost?

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

What are some of the best cruise lines?

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

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

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

Are cruise trips affordable?

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

What is it like to go on a cruise?

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

Are cruises a good way to travel?

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

Which cruise line is the cheapest?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

What countries are best to visit by cruise ship?

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

Can I get last-minute cruise deals?

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

Are cruises all-inclusive?

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

Is food free on a cruise?

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

What cruise lines are adults only?

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

What cruise lines are considered to be the most luxurious?

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

What are the best cruises for couples?

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

Why should I go on a cruise for my honeymoon?

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

Are there any Christmas cruises?

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

Do I need a passport to go on a cruise?

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

Why should I book a cruise with Expedia.com?

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

What happens if a cruise is canceled?

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

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

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Royal Caribbean Cruise Deals Guide

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

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

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

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

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

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

How can I maximize the value of my cruise vacation?

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

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

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

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How to Find Caribbean Cruises Under $500

Savvy cruisers can save big on caribbean cruises with these tips.

by Editor in Budget , Cruise Bahamas Caribbean Cozumel Key West February 27, 2017

Don't be discouraged if you have high hopes but low funds for the Caribbean cruise of your dreams. Cruising is one of the most affordable (and fun) ways to travel to exotic islands. Follow our tips for finding Caribbean cruises under $500 and you'll be setting sail in no time.

Continue reading or shop cruise deals now!

Book well ahead - or at the last minute

Just like buying airline tickets or hotel stays, it pays to book with a large window before your travel date. The best rates for cruises are often a year or more in advance. Don't know what days you'll have for vacation until the last minute? That's OK — as sail dates approach, cruise lines discount the staterooms they have left, making this the second best time to locate Caribbean cruises under $500.

Try the off-season

The Caribbean cruise industry enjoys a winter high season — not surprising, since that's when North Americans are most craving sun and sand. If you can wait to go in the summer or fall months, fares will be much cheaper, though you may have some wet summer weather to contend with.

Choose the Bahamas

Bahamas cruises are some of the most affordable out there, partly because the short trip (usually from Florida ) can be made by older vessels in the cruise line's fleet. They won't have all the bells and whistles of the newer ships, which tend to be sent on longer sailings to further-out islands. But that doesn't mean they won't provide an excellent experience. Take the Norwegian Sky, for example. It was built in the 1990s and now sails 3- and 4-night cruises to the Bahamas, with a free open bar. How's that for a bonus?

Look at 3- or 4-night cruises

The longer the cruise, the more expensive it's likely to be. If you can keep your trip to three or four nights, you'll see a good mix of Caribbean cruises under $500. Carnival, one of the most beloved budget cruise lines, offers a 4-night cruise to Cozumel and Key West with rates as low as $199 per person. Note that these aren't true Caribbean ports (Key West is in Florida and Cozumel is in Mexico), but both are white-sand tropical islands with palm trees, coral reefs and more than enough Caribbean flavor.

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5 Cruises Under $500

It’s officially wave season , which means millions of people around the world are gearing up to embark on an epic cruise vacation. (Quick note: Wave season happens during the first three months of the year, when cruise l ines generously hand out onboard credits, fare reductions, and other perks.) However, with hundreds of itineraries out there to choose from, it can be overwhelming to find the one that’s best for you. In an effort to make your vacation planning that much easier (and as value-packed as possible), we’ve narrowed down our top five cruise picks — all under $500 per person.

1. Princess Pacific Coastal Cruise

Why it’s Great: Exploring the Pacific Northwest has never been more easier (or more budget-friendly). This cruise sails from San Francisco to Vancouver and makes stops in Oregon and Nanaimo, British Columbia. Passengers will sail onboard the Grand Princess, which was refurbished in December, 2016. For passengers sailing sans-kids, the ship features an adults-only oasis for some R&R, as well as movies by the pool, and offers a wide selection of restaurants to choose from each night.

Price: Interior cabins start at $299 per person; ocean view cabins from $399 per person.

Sail Date: May 5, 2019

2. Four-Night Cuba Cruise from Tampa on Carnival

Why it’s Great: With stops in Havana, Cozumel, and Key West, passengers can step out of their typical Caribbean comfort zones (in the best way possible) as they take in new sights, sample authentic Cuban cuisine, admire local artwork, and much more. This itinerary is perfect for art fanatics, beach-lovers, history buffs, and adventure-seekers alike. Passengers will be on board the recently-refurbished Carnival Paradise , which features new restaurants and bars  (Guy Fieri’s Guy’s Burger Joint, BlueIguana Cantina, RedFrog RumBar), as well as two new children’s camps, updated staterooms, a waterpark, and more boutiques for shopping.

Price: Interior cabins from $444 per person, a steal considering the prices hike up to almost $800 for the same accommodation  in February.

Sail Date: October 12, 2019

3. Royal Caribbean Four-Night Singapore and Thailand Cruise

Why it’s Great : Take in the breathtaking sites of Southeast Asia abroad Royal Caribbean’s Voyager of the Seas , complete with plenty of dining options to choose from, tons of live entertainment, and lots of additional onboard attractions – from mini golf to rock-climbing and everything in between. Once you’re off the cruise, explore Singapore, visit traditional temples and museums in Malaysia, and relax on the famous beaches of Phuket.  

Price: Interior cabins from $331 per person, or, upgrade to an ocean view for $366 per person.

Sail Date: February 18, 2019

4. Norwegian Cruise Line Three-Night Bahamas Cruise

Why it’s Great : After embarking in Miami, the ship heads to Key West where passengers can explore historical sites like the Shipwreck Treasure Museum as well as the home of literary great Ernest Hemingway. After that, the ship sails to Norwegian’s very own private island in the Bahamas, Great Stirrup Cay. Whether you choose to plant yourself on a beach chair for the entire day, or take to the turquoise waters to kayak or swim, this three-night itinerary is ideal for a long weekend getaway. Passengers will be cruising on the Norwegian Sky , where they can choose from 10 dining options as well as 11 bars and lounges, a casino, and a spa. And one big bonus: The ship offers a free open bar.  

Price: Interior cabins from $399 per person, or upgrade to an ocean view for $449 per person.

Sail Date : September 5, 2019 or September 19, 2019

5. Eastern Caribbean Cruise on Celebrity

Why it’s Great: This six-night Caribbean cruise embarks from Port Liberty, New Jersey -- just across the river from NYC -- and makes stops in St. Maarten, St. Thomas, and Puerto Rico. As passengers sail to the Caribbean, they’ll be on board the Celebrity Summit , where they can indulge in upscale dining, enjoy the line’s signature nightlife, and sip martinis at the martini bar. In the Caribbean, passengers can enjoy snorkeling in St. Maarten, relax on the beach in St. Thomas, and get lost in the colorful cobblestone streets of San Juan. All in all, the three port stops make for distinct destinations for both beach-goers and history-lovers alike. Note: This cruise disembarks in Puerto Rico, so passengers will need to purchase airfare from San Juan to get home.

Price: Interior cabins from $349 per person.  

Sail Date: October 20, 2019

12 Best Caribbean Cruises of 2019

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12 Cheap Spring Break Cruises for 2024 (Starting at $239)

Looking for a Spring Break getaway? What’s better than hitting the water, sailing to the Caribbean, and enjoying some of the most beautiful beaches in the world?

What about doing all of that without spending a fortune? In fact, we’ve found some Spring Break cruises that allow you to sail — with a cabin and meals included — for in some cases less than a flight alone to the Caribbean.

The truth is, Spring Break is one of the times of year where prices for cruises typically spike. However, for 2024, we’re finding a number great deals — including many Spring Break cruises for under $300 per person.

Below, we’ve found some of the cheapest cruises for 2024 season across multiple ports and cruise lines. But before we get to that, here are some pointers on how to find the cheapest trips during this popular time of year.

How to Find Cheap Spring Break Cruises

If you’re wanting to score the best deal during this time of year, then keep the following in mind:

Shorter Cruises = Less Money While you have a week for Spring Break, if you want the cheapest cruises, then avoid spending all week on the ship. Cruise lines offer a ton of 3-5 day cruises and these are drastically less overall than sailing for an entire week.

This shouldn’t be as a surprise. With cruise fare covering everything from your cabin to meals to entertainment, it costs less to take a passenger on a four-night cruise than it does to take them on a week-long vacation. If you are on a budget, shorter cruises are your friend. (Even so, there are some good deals we found on week-long trips!)

Florida is King of Cheap Cruises Florida is the cruise capital of the world. You have Miami, Fort Lauderdale, Port Canaveral, and Tampa all within a few hours of each other. The number of ports and ships sailing from the area mean there are a number of options when it comes to cruises. Not every cheap Spring Break cruise sails from Florida, but it’s where a majority of them sail from.

Prices Rise Through Mid-March Obviously if you are a student, you don’t get to pick when you have your Spring Break. But you should know that prices rise as the month of March goes on. Sailing early in the month is your best bet for the cheapest trips, and prices peak about halfway through the month. A cruise is still an affordable way to travel even if it’s a little more expensive in the middle of March. Just know that early sailing means lower prices.

Use an Aggregator Website That Searches Across All Cruise Lines Head to a cruise line’s website and you’ll find the prices only for that line. After all, you won’t see Royal Caribbean’s deals on Carnival’s website. Instead, look to a third-party travel site to search across all lines to find the best deals.

Sites like AvoyaTravel.com or Orbitz offer prices for all the cruise lines, making it easy to search and book your trip and find deals you wouldn’t see if you only search a specific cruise line’s website. CostcoTravel.com is also a good place to look if your a Costco member.

Note: The prices below were from a recent search and are subject to change . They include only cruise fare for one person in an interior cabin. Taxes, fees, and gratuities will be extra.

Cheap 2024 Spring Break Cruises

3-Night Bahamas Cruise from Miami (MSC) Date: March 15, 2024 Price: $239 per person

If you can make it to the Miami area, then you’ll have a lot of options for inexpensive cruises. Combine that with MSC, which is known for offering some low prices, and it’s a way to sail for cheap.

This trip is just three days, making it perfect for those on a tight budget. Despite being short, it includes stop at Ocean Cay — MSC’s private island that’s designed specifically for cruise passengers. As well, you will dock in Key West, which is a well known Spring Break spot. The trip sails from Miami aboard the MSC Magnifica. Best of all, an interior room is only $239 per person (the same trip on March 1 is only $179 per person and March 29 costs $209!). You can learn more about this cruise here .

3-Night Mexico Cruise from Long Beach (Carnival) Date: March 15, 2024 Price: $259 per person

Sailing from Long Beach is ideal if you’re looking for a short and cheap cruise. For instance, this trip is just three nights, sailing to Ensenada, Mexico and back. That’s perfect for those looking to just let loose for a few days and get out of town for cheap. It sails aboard the Carnival Radiance at the peak of Spring Break — departing March 15 .

It only costs $259 per person for an interior cabin, making it among the most affordable cruises we found in the month of March. If you have an early break, then a sailing on March 1 is just $229 per person.

3-Night Bahamas Cruise from Port Canaveral (Carnival) Date: March 8, 2024 Price: $299 per person

In terms of absolute value, paying $299 for a three-day cruise isn’t the best deal you’ll find. But paying that much at the height of Spring Break is still pretty good. For just a little under three bills you can escape the cold and sail to Bimini aboard Carnival Liberty .

The cruise departs Port Canaveral on Friday, March 8, returning on Monday, March 11 — so you might have to take off one day from work or school if you live in the area. There are also slightly more expensive trips for other weekends during March if that better matches your schedule.

4-Night Bahamas Cruise from Miami (Carnival) Date: March 18, 2024 Price: $369 per person

The is not the cheapest Spring Break cruise we were able to find aboard Carnival, but this trip is four days (instead of three) at the height of the season, so you have to expect to pay a little more. It heads to Half Moon Cay from Miami and then to Nassau and before heading back home.

Departing in mid-March aboard the Carnival Conquest, this trip won’t break the bank as it’s just $369 per person for cruise fare (taxes, fees, and gratuities will add more) for an interior cabin. Since it sails on a Monday and gets back early Friday morning, it fills up the week of your break with the weekends still open.

3-Night Bahamas Cruise from Fort Lauderdale (Royal Caribbean) Date: March 8, 2024 Price: $281 per person

Royal Caribbean usually isn’t usually the cheapest cruise line, which makes this trip a rare gem. For only $281, you can sail aboard the Liberty of the Seas from Fort Lauderdale . The cruise takes you to Nassau and CocoCay (Royal Caribbean’s private island) before returning home. This particular cruise departs on March 8 — however, you can also sail other dates during the month for a similar price.

7-Night Caribbean Cruise from Port Canaveral (Norwegian) Date: March 17, 2024 Price: $579 per person

In general, deals aboard Norwegian Cruise Line a tougher to come by as the cruise giant typically charges a premium compared to other lines. Still, we found this 7-night cruise during the height of Spring Break season for less than $100 per day . It will be more when you factor in double occupancy and taxes and fees, but that’s a solid price for this time of year.

Sailing aboard Norwegian Epic from Port Canaveral, you’ll visit NCL’s private island Great Stirrup Cay, San Juan, St. Thomas and Puerto Plata in the Dominican Republic. In addition, you’ll have days at sea to enjoy the ship and work on your tan.

5-Night Mexico Cruise from Galveston (Carnival) Date: March 25, 2024 Price: $569 per person

Outside of Florida, Galveston is one of the premier departure ports in the United States giving you a lot of options on ships to sail, departure dates, and itineraries. In this case we found a 5-day cruise aboard Carnival Breeze departing in late March for just $569 .  

For that amount you’ll head to Costa Maya and Cozumel before heading back to Texas. We’ll be honest that $569 for a five-day cruise isn’t the greatest deal. But if you’re one of the tens of millions within driving distance of the port, it’s still cheaper than having to fly to Florida to cruise. 

6-Night Eastern Caribbean Cruise from Miami (Carnival) Date: March 17, 2024 Price: $499 per person

Heading to Eastern Caribbean is cheap and easy when you sail from Miami. This six-day cruise in March takes passengers to Grand Turk (where they can swim in the shadow of the ship, Amber Cove in the Dominican Republic, and then Nassau before heading back home to Miami, with a couple of days at sea thrown in as well. Best of all, you can get the trip for just under $500 per person if you book an interior cabin. The cruise sails aboard the Carnival Magic. It’s one of Carnival’s older ships, but who cares when you are simply there to have a good time on Spring Break?

6-Night Caribbean Cruise from Miami (Royal Caribbean) Date: March 18, 2024 Price: $524 per person

For any six-night cruise during Spring Break, under $100 a day is a good deal. For a trip aboard Royal Caribbean, it is even better. This nearly week-long trip departs Miami in mid-March , headed to Nassau, Puerto Plata, and Labadee (a private destination for the cruise line).

You’ll also have days at sea, giving you a chance to party on the ship, hang out poolside, and generally relax before heading back to the real world. The cruise is aboard the Grandeur of the Seas, which is one of the oldest ships in the fleet, but that’s one reason why it’s relatively inexpensive.

7-Night Bahamas Cruise from New York (MSC) Date: March 24, 2024 Price: $389 per person

Think of cruising and it’s likely you don’t think of New York City. But it’s turned into a popular spot with all the major lines sailing from there.

The trip is aboard MSC Meraviglia heads out during the peak of the Spring Break season for just $389 per person . It then heads south to Port Canaveral, Ocean Cay, and Nassau to get away from the sometimes still chilly March weather in the northeast. 

At just about $55 per night, that’s way cheaper than flying to The Bahamas or Florida to spend your vacation.

5-Night Bahamas Cruise from Los Angeles (Norwegian) Date: March 31, 2024 Price: $348 per person

When you think of Spring Break, you likely think of sun and sand, but this unique cruise flips that on its head. This trip aboard NCL takes you from Los Angeles on a repositioning cruise. That means instead of returning to the same port, the ship is moving to a new homeport. Since these routes are one way, they require a way to return home and usually see less demand. The result is a cheaper fare.

In this case, for just a shade under $350 , you leave LA on Norwegian Bliss headed north to stop in San Francisco and then Victoria, British Columbia before finishing in Vancouver. That’s a memorable trip, even if it’s not ideal for playing on the beach.

7-Night Caribbean Cruise from New Orleans (Norwegian) Date: March 17, 2024 Price: $649 per person

For many, New Orleans is a spot to visit during Spring Break on its own. This cruise, however, takes you from the Big Easy aboard Norwegian Breakaway, sailing out to the warm Caribbean. From New Orleans you’ll sail to Cozumel, followed by Roatan, Harvest Caye (an NCL private destination) and then Costa Maya.

This sailing packs in a lot of ports during a one-week cruise , and at a price of $649 per person for an interior cabin (before taxes/fees), it’s a good deal for this time of year. 

Where to Find More Spring Break Deals

Do the cruises above not quite match your schedule? Or you simply want to see what else is out there?

We suggest visiting a site like AvoyaTravel.com, Orbitz, or other aggregators that allow you to search across all cruise lines and schedules to find the cruise that matches your budget and schedule. Sites like CostcoTravel.com can also offer up deals if you are a member. For more details, see our article on the best websites to book a cruise .

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Looking for a cruise for March 28 to April 5 2020 for four to five days from Florida cheap as possible for a family

Timmy — check out third party aggregation sites like AvoyaTravel.com or Orbitz. These sites look at all the cruise lines and you can narrow down by specific dates and then sort by price.

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