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If you’ve ever wondered when the best time to book a cruise is, you’re not alone. With fluctuating prices, endless promotions, and seasonal demand, it’s easy to second-guess your timing. After taking dozens of cruises across every major line, I’ve learned that knowing when to book is just as important as knowing what to book. In this guide, I’m breaking down everything you need to know—from seasonal trends and destination-specific advice to insider tips that’ll save you money and secure the best cabins.
Table of Contents
When Is the Best Time to Book a Cruise?
The short answer: it depends on where you want to go, when you want to sail, and how flexible you are. The best time to book a cruise isn’t one-size-fits-all, but there are patterns—and if you know them, you can consistently score better rates, better cabins, and better perks.
Understanding Wave Season: The Cruise Industry’s Secret Sale Period
Wave Season runs from January to March and is widely regarded as the single best time of year to book a cruise. During this period, cruise lines unleash a wave (pun intended) of incentives:
- Reduced deposits
- Onboard credit
- Free drink packages
- Kids sail free promotions
- Cabin upgrades
This is when I book most of my personal travel for the year, especially anything premium or luxury. The deals are deep and the pickings are fresh.
Best Time to Book by Destination
Caribbean
Book: 6–12 months in advance
Best Sales: Wave Season (Jan–Mar) + September (low demand)
Why: Caribbean cruises sail year-round, but holiday and spring break cruises fill fast. For peak season (Dec–March), book early. For off-season bargains, look at fall.
Alaska
Book: 9–18 months in advance
Best Sales: Wave Season
Why: The season is short (May–Sept), and Alaska cruises are bucket list trips. Balcony cabins go fast—especially midship and aft. Book early if you want choice.
Mediterranean
Book: 6–12 months in advance
Best Sales: Wave Season, Late Summer for shoulder season deals
Why: Europe is competitive and has a long season. You can often get better pricing sailing in May or September compared to peak July/August.
Northern Europe & Baltics
Book: 12+ months in advance
Best Sales: Wave Season
Why: This region is seasonal and trending upward. Availability is more limited, especially if you want to start or end in a city like Copenhagen or Stockholm.
Asia, Australia & South Pacific
Book: 6–12 months in advance
Best Sales: Mid-year sales (June–August)
Why: These itineraries are fewer and farther between, and they draw a more global crowd. Planning ahead is key if you’re flying internationally.
How Far in Advance Should You Book?
Here’s a general rule of thumb:
- Luxury & Expedition Cruises: 12–24 months out
- Mainstream Cruises (Carnival, Royal, etc.): 6–12 months
- Repositioning Cruises: 6–9 months
- Holiday Sailings: 9–15 months
Booking early means better cabin selection and access to promos. Booking late might save you money, but you’ll sacrifice flexibility.
Last-Minute Cruise Deals: Are They Worth It?
They can be—if you’re flexible.
Last-minute deals (30–60 days out) are often for less desirable cabins or off-peak itineraries. You’re also less likely to get airfare or excursion bundles. That said, if you’re driving to the port and just need a getaway, this is a goldmine.
Best Days of the Week to Book a Cruise
Tuesdays and Thursdays tend to be when cruise lines refresh their deals.
But keep an eye on flash sales, which can hit any day and often run 24–72 hours. Set alerts or subscribe to cruise line newsletters—some of the best offers are exclusive to email subscribers.
Cruise Line Sales, Loyalty Perks & Insider Promotions
Different lines run promos throughout the year:
- Royal Caribbean: “BOGO” events and onboard credit offers
- Carnival Cruise Line: Pack & Go rates and early saver programs
- Celebrity Cruises: “Always Included” vs. periodic flash promos
- Princess Cruises: Past guest pricing and bundle deals (drinks, Wi-Fi, tips)
If you’ve sailed a line before, always check your loyalty deals first—they’re not always public.
When to Avoid Booking a Cruise
- Holidays (unless booking far in advance)
- Right before final payment deadlines (prices often go up, not down)
- During school breaks if you’re looking for adult-oriented cruises
Prices spike when demand is high. You’re competing with families, group travelers, and planners who book 12–18 months out.
Booking Pro Tips to Maximize Value
- Use a Cruise-Specialized Travel Agent – they often have access to extra perks you can’t get solo.
- Book a refundable fare early, then reprice if a better deal drops.
- Check cruise line price guarantee policies – some will match if you find a lower rate later.
- Don’t ignore shoulder season – May and September often have better weather and lower crowds.
Booking a cruise isn’t just about finding a deal—it’s about getting the most value for your experience. Whether you’re chasing balcony views in Alaska or last-minute sunshine in the Caribbean, knowing when to book can save you hundreds—and land you a better cabin, itinerary, or onboard experience.
The best time to book a cruise is when you feel ready, but armed with the right timing strategy, you’ll never overpay again.
Additional cruise related content:
- Hotels Guide for Cruisers
- Packing list for solo cruisers
- Subscribe our YouTube channel – All Aboard with Joe
