Yes! Cruises go on sale often.

In addition to price discounts, a number of incentives are offered including onboard credits, free beverage packages, prepaid gratuities, and free internet packages. 

The best way to learn when cruises go on sale is to sign up for cruise line email newsletters & promotional offers, or promotional emails offered by your travel agent or favorite travel websites.

Consider An Off-Season Cruise

The cost of a cruise is a consideration for most would-be travelers, but there are ways to minimize those costs. One way to do so is to consider cruising during the off-season. 

During the off-season, there is lower demand for cabins and cruise lines will lower fares in order to fill those cabins.

For example, sailing to the Caribbean in September will be less costly than sailing during when the peak season starts in June. 

Cruise lines will also offer special deal packages, such as cabin upgrades and discounts on beverage packages for passengers that book in the slower seasons. 

Being Flexible Can Save Money 

If you have the ability to be flexible, watch your preferred cruise line website for last-minute deals. There are sometimes deep discounts in the week before departure if a ship still has inventory, and your flexibility can save you a lot. 

Part of the cost of cruising can be getting to the port. If you choose a port that you can drive to, saving on airfare to get there will be a big bonus. 

In the US, there are ports in Boston, New York City, Galveston, Tampa, New Orleans, Miami and Los Angeles that can make it easier to get to. 

Choose An Inside Cabin

Consider how you will spend your time while onboard, too. If you plan to spend most of your time on deck, in the casino or socializing, an inside cabin will also save you money. You won’t have a view or a balcony with an inside cabin, but you can get both of those just by being on the deck.

Take A Repositioning Cruise

Another off-season money saving cruise would be a repositioning cruise. These types of cruises are ideal if you enjoy at-sea days more than ports of call. Repositioning cruises take place when a ship repositions to locations where there is warmer weather.

Final Thoughts

While the cost of a cruise can add up, there are a number of ways to save money, including sailing in the off-season. It is well worth it to save money and experience the pleasure of a vacation on the ocean.

Also, on your next cruise, don’t forget to check on the sales that are offered if you book another cruise while you’re on your cruise. Often they will have great incentives for you to book your next one while you’re already enjoying a cruise! 

If you are or have been a member of the military in the USA or Canada, also check into military discounts for cruises.