How far in advance should you book a cruise to get the best deal?

How far in advance should you book a cruise to get the best deal? Experts say it's best to book a cruise six to 12 months ahead for the best price, but you might be able to snag a better deal if you have the flexibility to wait a bit longer. Getting the delicate balance right on booking a cruise can be tricky. Book too early and you risk paying through the nose.

What month is best for a Caribbean cruise?

What is the best time of year to go to the Caribbean? December through April is the peak season for Caribbean cruising. During this time, you'll experience the best weather and some of the most entertaining holidays and festivals.

How do you get comps on a cruise?

Comps are extended on board based on your level of play. Both slot and table players can receive comps, such as: complimentary drinks, spa treatments, logo items, invitations to our Steakhouse, and wine at your dining table. All complimentary items are based on your casino play.

Which room on a cruise ship is least expensive?

What is the least expensive cabin on a cruise ship? Interior or inside staterooms are typically the least expensive category on a cruise. Those cabins are generally the smallest on board and rarely accommodate more than three people, according to Joy Hess, owner and lead travel consultant at Outside the Lines Travel.

What is considered last minute cruise deals?

Last minute cruises -- defined roughly as sailings booked between several days and three months prior to the embarkation date -- offer savings to those of us who either procrastinate for a living or enjoy the luxury of cruising on a whim.

What is the best amount of days for a cruise?

What's the ideal cruise length for a first-timer? A week or so is the sweet spot for most first-time cruisers, which will offer three to six ports. Three-day sampler itineraries won't allow you to explore more than one or two destinations, and you can't decompress as thoroughly, either.

How do you get freebies on a cruise ship?

What is the best month to get a cruise deal?

Beyond during 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.

Do cruise prices go down closer to the date?

If a cruise is filling up quickly, the company has no reason to release a sale to entice customers. But if a cruise's departure date is fast approaching and the ship is only partially booked, prices will drop, and complimentary add-ons will increase, resulting in some happy customers.

Do cruises get cheaper the closer you book?

Cruise lines often discount their prices a month or two before sailing to fill vacant cabins. However, it's worth noting that a last-minute cruise doesn't always offer the most savings to travelers. Those who plan far ahead may be able to save even more.

Is it better to book a cruise online or over the phone?

If you're an experienced cruiser or have done enough research to know exactly what you want, then booking online could be a good idea. Ask yourself – Have you done enough research to know what you want better than a cruise expert? If so, go ahead and book your cruise online.

What are the worst months to take a cruise?

Wet season and dry season are both good times to cruise the Caribbean. The worst time for a Caribbean cruise weather-wise is August to September, as it is peak hurricane season.

How close to the cruise do prices drop?

Cruise prices are usually the cheapest furthest from the sailing date when first launched or 60-90 days before the cruise sets sail. The prices of some cruises will decrease last minute – but this doesn't always happen. Booking a cruise within the last 60/90 days may not always be the best way to get a bargain.

Can you negotiate with cruise lines?

Prices, for instance, can't be negotiated. While some cruise lines, particularly river cruise lines, may give you a set discount, most ocean lines expect you to sell your group space at the current prevailing rate (though that can include any current promotions).

What is the cheapest cruise line?

While there is not a clear winner across all of the categories, Carnival, MSC and Royal Caribbean offer the lowest prices for those wanting to cruise. These costs were compared solely on the cruise fare, which does include complimentary dining venues as well as most of the onboard activities and entertainment.

How far in advance should you book a cruise for best price?

Booking a cruise one to two years in advance is not practical for many families, so a great time to book a cruise is between six and 12 months before sailing. In addition to the lower prices, booking well in-advance of a cruise assures you of the ship and stateroom you want to reserve.

Do cruise prices increase as time goes on?

Like airfare, cruise fares can move up and down over time (though not near as drastically). If you book a cruise and see the price drop later, you should call the cruise line and request a refund of the difference. Many last-minute cruise fares (those sold within 30-45 days from the sail date) have their prices locked.

What is the best location to book on a cruise?

The lower and more central you are in a ship, the less roll and sway you will feel. Even if you choose a balcony room, choose a low level and a room closest to the ship's center. The higher decks and cabins at the front (forward) or back (aft) of the ship will rock and roll the most.

What is the least busiest cruise month?

To save some money on a Caribbean cruise, it is best to sail in off peak times such as January, May, and early fall. With kids back in school, there is less demand for cruising during these periods.

What day of the week do cruise prices drop?

According to an extensive study that followed price drops in the cruise industry, Thursdays may be the best day to book a cruise. Prices associated with travel are always in flux due to supply and demand, so the prices of a cruise can change daily. Prices could spike on a Wednesday and drop, well, on a Thursday.