5 Ways to Score a Deal on a Last-Minute Cruise

1. Sign up for alerts or price drops

Many travel agency websites send their customers weekly—or even daily—email blasts to keep them informed about current promotions. Often, multiple agencies get the same rates, but it doesn’t hurt to sign up for a variety of deal “blasts” to ensure you don’t miss a thing.

If you have a sailing (or a few) that you are interested in, sign up for a price drop and be notified via email when the price drops on the sailing. 

Related Article: How to Save Hundreds on Your Next Cruise (Even if You Already Booked)

2. Check out the “Deals” section on the cruise line’s website

All of the lines have a tab on their home page for the latest steals they’re offering on cruises. These are usually available for just a limited time — and only on specific sailings.

Also, check deals on Cruiseline.com where you can sort by destination, cruise length, percentage discount, and more!

3. Book in low or shoulder season

During winter, not only does the temperature drop but so do the prices for cruising. This time of year is historically the low season for cruising. Except for holidays, most cruise lines see a dip in occupancy, as many destinations — including the Caribbean, Alaska, and the Mediterranean — are most popular in the summertime. But remember, these are slow times for a reason: Research your itinerary and the average temperatures, as well as weather-related issues such as hurricane threats.

4. Check for rate cuts 90 days before sailing

Three months before sailing is a key date to remember, as that is when cruise lines typically discount unsold cabins. If there is a particular ship and sailing date you are most interested in, be sure to set a price alert to be notified if the price drops. 

5. Be flexible with ports, times, and destinations

You may have to be ready to travel on a whim to get a really good deal on a cruise. Although you may be able to find a great deal on a last-minute Caribbean cruise, it may not include your wish list of ports, so be open to trying other destinations. Remember, if you don’t live within driving distance of a major departure port — such as South Florida (Miami and Fort Lauderdale) or Galveston — you’ll have to factor in the cost of last-minute airfare, which will eat into your savings.

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