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He has become one of the foremost expert on a Royal Caribbean cruise. In terms of temperatures, it remains warm throughout most of the year, so there is almost always sun and warm enough temperatures to swim and be outdoors. November through February can see an occasional cold front pushing through to make things feel a bit chilly, but they are short lived and the exception. "I think that, realistically, if you can book a year or more in advance and block off the time and know that's going to work for you, then that's perfect," she said. "If you're looking for a deal over Christmas, you're probably not going to find it," said Stephanie Goldberg-Glazer, chief experience officer and owner of the travel agency Live Well, Travel Often. You’ll also need to take into consideration where the cruise embarks—a cruise that is made up of primarily Chinese tourists can see a price spike in January or February during Chinese New Year.
When is the cheapest time of year to book a Caribbean cruise vacation?
For the uninitiated, wave season is when most of the major cruise lines run their best sales of the year. “Think of wave season as the best sale day ever that just happens to last for three months—like Black Friday, Cyber Monday and Presidents’ Day all rolled into one,” writes Celebrity Cruises. Drop us an anchor below to share your tips for the cheapest times of year to go on a cruise. Many unpredictable factors combine to make one sailing more expensive than the identical itinerary the week before or after.
Best Time to Book Caribbean Cruises
But with a relatively short cruise season lasting from April through November, the shoulder seasons are the cheapest times to cruise to Bermuda. While certain months offer better deals for cruising than others, the perfect cruise experience balances cost, destination, and personal preference. By understanding the industry's patterns and being flexible, you can set sail without sinking your budget. Additionally, by exploring a variety of destinations and cruise lines, you can uncover hidden gems that provide exceptional value. Embracing off-peak seasons not only offers financial benefits but also a chance to experience destinations in a unique, less crowded setting. Book during the slowest time, which is typically from November to February, and you will save the most money.
How to save money on your cruise booking
Hurricane season will be over, but temps usually stay high enough to swim and enjoy the pool. Keep reading to find the cheapest months to cruise to popular destinations around the world. Or, use the links below to jump to the part of the world you’re most interested in. Between mid-April and mid-June there is often a lull in travelers to Hawaii so cruise costs can take a small dip during these times as well.
Because of the double-whammy of cold temperatures and the scarce daylight in Northern Europe during winter, the cruise season in this region runs from the end of April through October. Much like cruising in the rest of Europe, you’ll find the best prices if you book a cruise that sails during the shoulder seasons of April and May or October. For example the summer months are considered off-peak in the Caribbean due to hurricane season (and don’t worry, captains know how to steer around bad weather so you’ll be safe - but risk more rain).
Bermuda
November through February (with the exception of holiday weeks) is the slow season for Hawaii cruises, so you’ll be able to book a more budget-friendly sailing during these months. This is the rainy season for the state, so be prepared for showers. If you’re fine with cruising during hurricane season, make sure you have travel insurance and you can snap up some bargains! Sailing in September or October can save you lots of money, but prepare to be flexible. Storms tend to pop up during this time of year, and port stops can be canceled or changed on short notice.
The best time to cruise the Panama Canal - The Points Guy
The best time to cruise the Panama Canal.
Posted: Sun, 14 May 2023 07:00:00 GMT [source]
How to save on a cruise: 33 money-saving tips from an expert cruiser
You can often save money by going to the source and booking a tour directly with a provider. Alternatively, a private tour guide for a group may not always save you money, but you will usually get more value out of a small-group tour that you can customize to your preference. If you pay attention, you can find several opportunities to get drinks for free on a cruise ship. Many of the onboard art auctions pass out Champagne or sparkling wine to attendees, and sometimes the ship's shops will offer liquor tastings in an attempt to convince you to buy a bottle. If you're a suite guest or loyalty member, you might be eligible for free drink vouchers, happy hours or events with comped drinks.
Consider using less expensive forms of transportation to explore a city during your port stop. Local buses and subways can be more affordable ways to get around, plus offer a glimpse into local life. Cruise line boutiques often run BOGO sales or "everything for $10" hours on items like T-shirts, evening purses and sunglasses. If you're thinking of purchasing some souvenirs, look for promotional events listed in your daily schedule. If you're looking to splurge on high-end jewelry or other expensive gifts, look for specials in those boutiques. These purchases won't be cheap, but you might be able to save a bit or get an extra bauble thrown in for free.
The cheapest times of year to cruise
The weather might not be ideal, and wildlife activity might be reduced in Alaska. Some tours might not run due to weather conditions or lack of demand. Also, the sea conditions might be a bit rougher in both areas during the shoulder months.
As the end of November transitions to the holidays, though, Caribbean cruise prices begin to increase again. Times to avoid if you want a cheaper cruise are the most popular periods such as Christmas/New Year, school holidays, Thanksgiving, Spring Break & Presidents Week (of sailing in the US or Caribbean). Also avoid inaugural or maiden seasons as prices tend to be higher then. You might find a cheap cruise deal or a fare packed with extras (like complimentary beverage packages, free kids fares or reduced deposits).
Many last-minute cruise fares (those sold within days from the sail date) have their prices locked. If the price drops after you book, then it can be more difficult to get the difference in cruise fare refunded. You can book a cruise anywhere from 18 months to one week in advance. The sooner you book, the more choice you’ll have between cabins. So it really depends on whether you prioritize a certain room or a certain price.
Luckily, we did not encounter any of these issues on either cruise. Most beaches you'll visit on a cruise, including the cruise lines' private islands, will rent you snorkel gear, umbrellas and beach floats, or sell you beach toys. Save money by purchasing and bringing your own snorkel gear, beach shade, inflatable beach toys and floats. The upfront cost might be higher than a single rental, but you can use the gear in multiple ports and on multiple cruises. Look for inflatables or collapsible gear that can pack down small or that come in convenient carrying cases. Cruise lines mark up shore excursions because they have to pay the provider and turn a profit.
If you are willing to take that risk and don’t have your heart set on a certain itinerary, you can score some amazing deals. The corollary advice is that cruise lines will sometimes drop prices or offer value-added promotions on cruises that have too many available cabins left a few months before its scheduled departure. You can find cheap deals on last-minute sailings, especially if you're not picky about which cabin you get.
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