Your Guide to Help Saving Money on Cruises

Summary: You can save money on cruises by being flexible about destinations, cabins, ships, dates, and cruise lines. Use apps, travel advisors, and insider programs, but always help protect your bargain with travel insurance with assistance services.

Combatting Cruise Costs

While overall travel costs may be rising, the investment in a cruise vacation often exceeds that of the average trip. Our annual travel survey shows that cruise travelers spend approximately $580 more on their vacation than the average U.S. traveler, 15% more than other types of vacations. This makes finding a great deal even more essential for those who want to get on the water without breaking the bank. Savvy travelers know there are still plenty of ways to find a bargain, and this guide will show you how.

1. Be Flexible with Your Destination

When it comes to cruises, you’re in luck—most of them are headed somewhere fantastic. The best deals often go to travelers who aren't fixated on a single location. If you have your heart set on a specific port like Aruba, you may have to pay a premium.

However, if your main goal is to simply relax in the sun and escape the daily grind, you can find incredible value by being open to different itineraries. Prioritize what's most important to you—be it activities, shore excursions, or departure ports—and let the best deal guide you to your destination.

2. Choose Your Cabin Wisely

The reality is thatmost cruise cabins is that you'll spend very little time in them. If your main goal is to get away and your room is just a place to sleep and get ready, why pay more for a balcony or ocean view? You can save a significant amount of money by booking an inside cabin and spending your time enjoying the sun, the public areas, and all the ship has to offer.

A few tips for choosing a budget-friendly cabin:

Avoid cabins located near high‑traffic areas such as discos, theaters, or elevators.
Opt for a room on a lower, quieter deck.
A windowless interior cabin can be an excellent choice for a restful night's sleep and is often the most affordable option.

Learn more: All-Inclusive Cruises: How To Find One – and What ‘All-Inclusive’ Really Means

3. Consider an Older Ship

You’ve seen the ads for brand-new ships with onboard racetracks and massive water slides. While these new vessels are impressive, they come at a higher cost. Many older ships—which are still meticulously maintained and offer a wonderful experience—are a fantastic way to save money.

A ship that is four or five years old isn't going to be a rust bucket; it's a modern vessel with great amenities, fantastic dining, and all the classic cruise activities you could want. By choosing a slightly older ship, especially in combination with a budget-friendly cabin, you can unlock significant savings.

4. Leverage Off-Season Dates

Like any other form of travel, cruises have peak and off-seasons. For warm-weather destinations, peak season is typically when it's cold in the northern U.S. By booking your cruise during the off-season, such as the spring or fall, you can find much lower prices.

A key strategy is to book during “Wave Season” (January tthroughMarch) for cruises departing later in the year. While it seems counterintuitive to book when everyone else is, this is when cruise lines typically offer their best promotions for future sailings.

One important note: It's generally wise to avoid Caribbean cruises during the peak of hurricane season, which runs from August through December (Once a storm has been named we no longer provide coverage). The potential for disruption may not be worth the risk (or travel with a travel protection plan from Generali Global Assistance).

5. Be Open to Different Cruise Lines

For some travelers, brand loyalty is a major factor, and that's perfectly fine. If you’ve found a cruise line you love and you're happy with it, stick with it. However, if your primary motivation is to find the lowest possible price, you shouldn’t limit yourself to the offerings of just one company. By shopping around and comparing deals across multiple cruise lines, you can find a bargain you might have otherwise missed.

Additionally, many cruise lines have "insider" programs that offer special deals to returning customers. While not every offer is a steal, it can be a great way to save money and feel valued as a customer. A trusted travel advisor can help you navigate these programs to find the best perks.

6. Use the Right Tools and Experts

The hunt for a cruise deal can feel overwhelming, but a variety of resources can help.

Apps and Websites: Many travelers swear by apps like Shipmate or sites like Cruise Critic. These platforms aggregate deals and provide reviews from other cruisers, helping you compare prices and experiences.
Travel Advisors: The old saying is true: travel professionals often have access to deals that the average traveler can't get. They have industry relationships and can help you navigate complex pricing. Even if they can't get you the absolute lowest price, a good advisor can often get you added amenities, turning a basic fare into a much nicer experience.
Online Communities: Reddit forums and other online communities are filled with seasoned cruisers who share tips, tricks, and deals.

The Smart Cruiser's Approach to Savings

The most effective way to save money is to combine multiple strategies for a powerful approach:

Flexible destinations + inside cabins + older ships + off-peak dates = serious savings.
Use online tools and travel advisors to maximize your deals and secure extra amenities.
Join loyalty programs or cruise line membership clubs. These programs may offer exclusive discounts, onboard credits, and priority perks that can add significant value to your trip.

Remember: The best cruise deal could be worthless if something goes wrong and you’re traveling without a travel protection plan.

Help Protect Your Bargain Cruise

No matter what amazing deal you find, don't forget to help protect your travel investment. Travel insurance and assistance services are great for cruises, from the least expensive to the most luxurious. And after all that bargain-hunting, getting a quote is easy. Get a quick quote to help protect your cruise.