six to 12 months
“It's best to book a cruise six to 12 months out to ensure you get an optimum selection of cabin types, preferred itineraries, and special promotional rates,” says Jennifer DeLaCruz, a vice president at Carnival Cruise Lines.2025 feels far away, but we're already counting down the days. Whether your new year's resolution is simply to travel more, or to check specific destinations off your bucket list, it's never too early to start planning and booking your next cruise. Start planning ahead and check out all our 2025 sailings.If you're extremely flexible, booking last minute can save you 60% or more, as cruise lines are desperate to fill empty cabin space. But generally speaking, it's best to book over a year in advance during the November to March sale season.

When should you book a cruise : January, February and early March are wave season: the time of year when cruise lines offer the best deals because they want to fill their ships. These deals can include: Discounts on the fare itself, or on the fares for additional guests. Discounted or free amenity packages, such as upgraded drinks or specialty dining.

Do cruise prices get lower closer to the date

Cruise lines often discount their prices a month or two before sailing to fill vacant cabins. However, it's worth noting that a last-minute cruise doesn't always offer the most savings to travelers. Those who plan far ahead may be able to save even more.

Is a balcony on a cruise worth it : When is a cruise-ship balcony worth the splurge Sometimes booking a private veranda is a no-brainer for the vistas, the quick access to fresh air, lots of light, and the extra real estate. But sometimes, because of weather or your itinerary, a balcony may not be worth the extra cost.

Cruise lines often discount their prices a month or two before sailing to fill vacant cabins. However, it's worth noting that a last-minute cruise doesn't always offer the most savings to travelers. Those who plan far ahead may be able to save even more.

Beyond holiday periods such as Black Friday, Cyber Monday, and Labor Day when there may be some flash sales, January and February are particularly good times to book a cruise, as the first two months of the year are considered “wave season” in the cruising industry.

Is it better to book a cruise sooner or later

Many of the cheapest cabins book out well in advance, and many of the desirable cabins sell out early. That means you may have fewer cabin choices when booking at the last minute. In some cases, the cruise line may choose a cabin for you.Get ahead of the game and plan your perfect 2024 vacation now. Book your next voyage with Booking.com Cruises and get up to $1,000 to spend on board your ship! Use it toward drinks, meals at specialty restaurants, spa treatments, and so much more. Book soon!Cruise lines often discount their prices a month or two before sailing to fill vacant cabins. However, it's worth noting that a last-minute cruise doesn't always offer the most savings to travelers. Those who plan far ahead may be able to save even more.

While some may sound trite, others may catch you by surprise.

1. Don't Wait for Last-Minute Cruise Deals on High-Season Sailings.
2. Hunt Down Shoulder Season and Repositioning Cruise Deals.
3. Use Cruise Critic's Deal Score to Know When a Deal is Really a Deal.
4. Bundle Up for the Best Cruise Deals.

What is the best floor to stay on a cruise ship : On most cruise ships, the most luxurious accommodation is on the upper decks. Here, you'll find a selection of elegant suites, with generous outdoor space, separate living areas, and amenities ranging from all-inclusive drinks to the service of a concierge.

Which cabins should I avoid on a cruise ship : Here are our recommendations of cabin locations to avoid.

• Near Entertainment Venues.
• At The Bow.
• Near the Anchor.
• Obstructed Views.
• Close to the Engine Room and the Galleys.
• Near Elevator Landings and Stairwells.
• Under the Jogging Track or Near Children's Playrooms.
• Connecting Cabins.

How close to the cruise do prices drop

For ships that sell out more slowly, or unexpectedly encounter a rash of cancellations before final payment, cruise lines may slash rates at the last minute to fill empty cabins. Look for deals starting 90 days before sailing.

Beyond holiday periods such as Black Friday, Cyber Monday, and Labor Day when there may be some flash sales, January and February are particularly good times to book a cruise, as the first two months of the year are considered “wave season” in the cruising industry.What is the cheapest time to book a cruise Prospective cruisers can usually find "a lot of good deals at the beginning of the year" during wave season, Goldberg-Glazer said. That period typically lasts from January until March. However, the optimal time to book may depend on when you plan to sail.

Which cruise line is most affordable :

• #1. Celebrity Beyond. Celebrity Cruises. #1 in Best Affordable Cruises (tie)
• #1. Celebrity Edge. Celebrity Cruises.
• #3. Rotterdam. Holland America Line.
• #4. Celebrity Apex. Celebrity Cruises.
• #5. Resilient Lady. Virgin Voyages.
• #6. Symphony of the Seas. Royal Caribbean International.
• #6. Odyssey of the Seas. Royal Caribbean International.