Check out our advice on securing that seven-seas holiday
Booking early is the best way to net the cheapest prices and the widest range of cruises. Think at least 60 days in advance, maybe even 120. And for cruises that depart during the summer months consider looking and booking one year ahead. And if you can’t plan that far in advance be flexible with your destination.
If your cruise is to an exotic location, consider everything you’ll need for that – visas, airfare to the departure port, passports, currencies, jabs.
In general, you’ll find all the sales during Wave Season – January and February. Look out for cheaper fares and little sweeteners such as balcony upgrades or cheap flights. The really savvy will let Wave Season pass them by, and book in March.
Book when demand is a bit softer. The shoulder season months – March to April (apart from Easter) or mid-September to November (when the children have returned to school) – are good times to snag deals on cruises to Europe or Alaska. For cruises to the Caribbean, look during autumn (hurricane season), November and December (excluding Christmas and New Year’s), January and February (excluding Valentine’s Day). This is also a good time for last-minute browsers to find a bargain. Keep in mind why demand is lower; it’s the weather. Some ports may have to be bypassed and shore excursions cancelled.
Compare the cost of booking via a travel agent with booking direct on the cruise line’s website. Big agencies will block-buy space and may have cruises left when the cruise line’s website tells you it has sold out. Also, there may be little perks such as a free spa treatment, ship credit or a bottle of champagne. Plus you’ll be speaking to an educated professional who’s an expert in the cruise industry.
Ask about a discount on air travel. You might find that the cruise line offers promotions on air fares.
If you’ve already booked a cruise, you might be able to buy your next holiday onboard at a discount. Sound appealing? Do your homework and focus on the itinerary of your future cruise before you travel.
Unbundle the price. The headline price of a cruise might be deceptive. What exactly does it include? If you have to fork out for flights to your departure port, a night’s accommodation in a hotel before you sail, drinks on board or activities, the price you paid might not seem like such a bargain after all. Look at the overall value rather than just the number of pounds or euros.
Finally, if you see a deal that strikes you as good value, pounce on it and then go and enjoy your cruise.
