The best time to book a cruise

There's a science to getting a good deal. Find out the best time to book your cruise.

Cruises can be expensive, so it pays to know a few insider tips and tricks for getting the best deal. Last year a study by cruisewatch.com looked at more than 3,000 cruises and analysed four million price changes, so if you're looking to set sail, find out the best time to book a cruise below. 

When is the best time to book a cruise?

Different cruise companies have different pricing strategies and it is important to know these before booking. Crystal Cruises and Disney almost never offer their cheapest prices during the last 100 days before departure. However, that is usually the time when Royal Caribbean, Princess and Celebrity have their best deals. Some companies have their best offers somewhere in between these times, like MSC and Oceania. Seadream seldom reduce their prices but it’s still worth keeping an eye on.

Is there a specific day I should book?

Surprisingly, yes. According to cruisewatch.com, you might want to consider which day of the week you are booking the cruise on as the prices drop mid-week with most discounts on Thursdays.

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What if I want to book last-minute?

Some companies, like Costa, Norwegian, Holland America and Windstar, have their best offers just 50 days prior to departure, so if you want a last-minute break these are the lines for you. Remember that you’ll only be able to choose the last unsold rooms, though, which probably won’t be the best. However, they can be discounted up to 40% so keep an open mind.

What if I have my mind set on a particular cruise or type of cabin?

Cruisewatch.com say in this case it’s best to book early, however, there’s still a possibility to save a bit of money on that Mediterranean cruise you’ve always wanted to go on. Just keep checking the prices even after you’ve booked your cruise. If the price falls after your booking, contact the cruise company because often they will offer you the difference in onboard credit, which you can then spend to make your experience even better.

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How to stay savvy

Sign up to email alerts for price drops and new deals, so you know about them early and have the chance to book before they’re sold out. It’s also important to know where to book so invest time in getting to know different cruise companies and where to find the best offers on them. Previous research from cruisewatch.com shows that savvy bookers can find discounts up to 57% on Cunard and Celebrity Cruises, 58% on Holland America Line and Princess Cruises and even 65% on Norwegian Cruise Lines sites if they keep monitoring prices.

In short – the more flexible you can be when booking a cruise, the better. It gives you greater freedom in terms of cruise company, cabin and even the route so you can really bag a bargain. It’s also worth remembering that you will get the best deals on interior or ocean-view cabins, the balcony staterooms rarely get reduced and suites are almost never discounted.

Once you've booked, read these 11 cruise tips on how to make the most of your time onboard.