Scoring a great cruise deal isn’t just about luck—it’s about timing. Cruise prices fluctuate throughout the year based on demand, weather, and itinerary. Whether you’re planning a Caribbean getaway or an Alaskan adventure, booking at the right time can save you hundreds of dollars. Here’s how to find the best cruise prices by season and strategy.

1. Wave Season (January to March)
   This is the best-known time to book cruises. Wave Season is when cruise lines release their most aggressive promotions, including free upgrades, onboard credits, and reduced deposits.

• Ideal for booking both near-term and far-in-advance sailings

• Promotions often stack with loyalty perks and early-booking bonuses

• Check deals directly with lines like Royal Caribbean, Carnival, and Princess Cruises

2. Last-minute deals (6–8 weeks before sailing)
   If your schedule is flexible, you can find major discounts on cabins that haven’t sold. These deals are common in shoulder seasons and just before sailing.

• Look on deal sites like VacationsToGo or CruiseCritic Deals

• Keep in mind: Last-minute deals may limit your cabin choices and flight availability

3. Shoulder seasons offer lower prices
   Avoiding peak months leads to cheaper fares and less crowded ships.

• Caribbean: Cheaper in May, September, and early December

• Alaska: Best rates in May and September (cooler weather, fewer crowds)

• Mediterranean: April, May, and October offer savings and milder temps

• Transatlantic: Deep discounts on repositioning cruises in spring and fall

4. Book far in advance for holiday sailings
   Holiday cruises (Christmas, New Year’s, Spring Break) are in high demand and rarely discounted late. Book these at least 9–12 months ahead for the best pricing and cabin options.
5. Watch for cruise line sales and email promotions
   Sign up for your preferred cruise line’s email list to get early alerts on flash sales and exclusive offers. Follow cruise deal trackers like CruiseSheet and CruiseWatch.
6. Use flexible fare tools
   Sites like Google Flights and Skyscanner help you align low airfare with cruise port departures. Pairing a low flight with a discounted cruise can result in a much more affordable vacation.
7. Combine booking strategies with cashback tools
   After finding a good cruise rate, use gift card or cashback platforms to squeeze out extra value. For instance, if you’re sailing with Carnival, you can earn cashback with a Carnival gift card through Fluz and apply it toward your fare. Even a few percent back on a $1,000+ cruise adds up.

Explore more travel savings options at the Fluz homepage.

Summary of the best times to book by goal

• Best price: January–March (Wave Season) or last-minute

• Best cabin selection: 6–12 months in advance

• Best weather + lower crowds: Shoulder season cruises

Best holiday deals: Book a year early