Are you planning on your first cruise? You must have zeroed in on the cruise line you wish to travel on your first journey. But what can confuse you is to determine the best time to book a cruise. Whether you’re traveling to dreamy destinations like the Caribbean, Hawaii, or the Mediterranean, you must know that cruise ships are operating all around the year to these places.
So, the trick is finding the right time to cruise. The cruise industry makes around $25 billion in a year, with most cruise lines starting bookings as early as two years before the ships set sail. So, it won’t be hard to find eye-catching deals if you pre-plan. Our article will be the perfect guide to knowing the best time to book a cruise.
When Is the Best Time to Book a Cruise?
Ideally, there’s no right or wrong time to book a cruise, as travelers benefit from various promotions and discounts at different time frames. Often, the best time to book a cruise is from January to March, which is famous as the “wave season.” During this season, the fare of cruise ships may decrease significantly. Also, the cruise lines will offer booking promotions, and you will get prepaid gratuities, discounted drink packages, free stateroom upgrades, etc.
Also, you can find great deals during holiday times like Cyber Monday, Black Friday, and Labor Day. However, the fare may vary based on the cruise line, the ship, itinerary, and demand. So, the best time to book a cruise ship depends greatly on the time you wish to travel, what experience you seek, and whether you’re ready to wait for the deal or not.
What Months Are Best for Cruise Deals?
Of course, you can find the best cruise fares at the start of the year, i.e., the “wave season,” from January to March. Most cruise lines offer the lowest discounts and best deals during this period.
What Day of the Week Is the Best Time to Book a Cruise?
If you’re a first-time cruise traveler, you may be wondering which day of the week when the fare goes down. The fact is that the fares don’t increase or decrease during a set schedule, so it is hard to predict what day the fare will go down. In the past, some research found that the fares were the lowest on Thursdays and highest on Wednesdays.
However, the data has constantly changed, and you can’t be assured that the cruise fare will be low on a particular day. The best way is to keep tracking the fares throughout the week.
Also read: Tips to cruise like a pro
How Far in Advance Should I Book a Cruise for the Best Price?
Most cruise lines start taking bookings nearly two years in advance. So, if you’re more particular about the destination or type of accommodation on the ship, it is best to reserve when the bookings are open. When booking early, you’ll have many options regarding the staterooms, travel dates, dining, and even shore excursions.
You’ll also get lower cabin fares when booking early. Some cruise lines may even offer more perks if you reserve in advance. Also, it is a fact that cruise itineraries have the cheapest fare when they’re released. But booking at the last minute may help you save more than 50% on the fare as the cruise lines will be desperate to fill the empty cabins. So, when you should book your cruise depends on your specific requirement – the cabin of your choice or low fare!
When Is the Best Time to Book a Last-Minute Cruise?
The perfect time to book a last-minute cruise deal is about 2-3 months (60-90 days) before the ship sails. Most travelers can cancel their trip without a penalty during this time. However, check for these when you’re about to grab a last-minute cruise deal.
- Cabin: The best cabins will be sold out by the time you book. As you have limited options, the cruise line may choose one for you.
- Flexibility: You can find good deals if the travel dates are flexible.
- Air ticket fare: The savings will be nullified if you don’t live near the departure airport.
- Passport: Before booking, ensure your passport has at least six months of validity.
- Breaks: You can find the best cruise deals during the spring break rather than the winter.
- Season: Look for the best deals at the destination. For instance, you’ll get discounted deals in the Caribbean during the hurricane season.
Do Cruise Prices Ever Go Down?
If you’re a seasoned traveler, you’ll know that the cruise line will offer lower fares and some complimentary add-ons as the sail date nears in order to fill the empty cabins. So, the cruise fares may drop mostly 2-3 months (60-90 days) before the departure date.
Do Cruise Prices Change Daily?
Yes, the cruise fares vary daily based on availability, demand, and deals. Also, it can vary depending on the age of the ship, itinerary, cruise type, and how soon the ship is set to sail.

What Month Are Cruises the Most Expensive?
In the US, cruise fares become very expensive during the summer season – the travel season peaks during June, July, and August. The families travel during the school vacations, and the fares surge due to an increase in the demand.
How Many Days Is Best for a Cruise?
It all depends on your requirements. Ideally, if you’re a first-timer, you can choose an itinerary that lasts 2-4 nights or under a week. One of the main reasons is that the fare will be in your budget. If you’re traveling with your family, it will be best to choose an itinerary that lasts 5-7 nights. However, if you have more time, opt for one that lasts 10-14 nights.
When is the best time to book a Disney cruise?
The cruise line recommends you book a cruise as soon as they announce the itineraries, around 15-18 months prior to sailing. It ensures that you get the best staterooms and fares during peak seasons or holidays.
When is the best time to book a Caribbean cruise?
If you’re looking for a peak season, you must visit from December to April. You can experience the best weather and enjoy some festivals then. However, if you’re looking for cheap fares to the Caribbean, you must book a cruise during September.
When is the best time to book a Carnival cruise?
The cruise line suggests that you book a cruise during the fall season. September offers the cheapest fares for Carnival cruises.
Is black friday the best time to book a cruise?
Black Friday and Cyber Monday indeed come up with some great cruise deals and savings. However, the best time to book a cruise is from January to March.
What month is the best time to book a cruise?
Ideally, it is the “wave season.” You can find the best fares and deals from January to March.
What is the cheapest day of the week to book a cruise?
The cruise fares can’t increase or decrease for a planned schedule. Though some studies have mentioned that Thursdays have the lowest cruise fares, there’s no validation for that.
What is the cheapest time to go on a cruise?
For the best deals and discounts, book a cruise from January to March. Also, cruise lines offer flash sales during holiday periods like Labor Day, Black Friday, or Cyber Monday.
What is the cheapest month to go on a Mediterranean cruise?
The inexpensive months to go on a Mediterranean cruise are from April to May and September to November.