If you’re planning your next cruise on a budget, you’ll want to find a cheap cruise deal. Nobody wants to pay more than they have to, and the cost of a cruise can be a major deterrent—but it doesn’t have to be.
I’m Matt from RealGreenBlog.com, and I’m sharing 15 proven ways to get the best cruise deal that can save you hundreds or even thousands of dollars, whether it’s a Royal Caribbean cruise, a Caribbean getaway, or a luxury Alaskan adventure.
Why Flexibility Is the Key to Cheap Cruises
The most important factor when looking for the best cruise deals is flexibility. Time of year, demand, and departure port all impact pricing. The more flexible you are, the better your chance of snagging an amazing deal.
1. Book Early for the Best Deals
More often than not, the best cruise deals are found 1–2 years in advance.
- Most cruise itineraries are announced two years ahead.
- Booking early, especially for balcony rooms or suites, often saves you the most money.
- Don’t wait until the last minute unless you’re hunting for a last-minute deal.
2. Look for Last-Minute Cruise Deals
While booking early is ideal, last-minute deals do exist if you’re flexible.
- Cruise lines may lower prices 75–90 days before departure if cabins are unsold.
- Websites like VacationsToGo.com show 90-day deals departing in the next three months.
- Search for refurbished cabins or discounted itineraries to snag the lowest prices.
3. Sail on a One-Way Alaska Cruise
Alaska cruises are famous for their beauty—but also their price.
- One-way cruises from Vancouver to Seward can cost as little as $550 per person including taxes and fees.
- One-way itineraries often have lower demand, meaning cheaper rates.
- These cruises let you see more ports and explore Alaska’s interior before or after the cruise.
4. Book with a Travel Agent
Travel agents can save you hundreds of dollars on cruises and provide resources you can’t get online.
- Agents often have agency-specific deals and consortium offers.
- They can apply special offer codes or incentives you wouldn’t find on your own.
- A travel agent also helps with questions, issues, and extra perks before, during, and after your trip.
5. Cruise During Off-Peak or Shoulder Seasons
Sailing outside peak times like summer, school holidays, Thanksgiving, Christmas, and spring break can save you hundreds of dollars.
- Caribbean cruises during hurricane season are cheaper, and most itineraries sail smoothly.
- Shoulder-season sailing often offers lower demand, fewer crowds, and better rates.
6. Choose Older or Smaller Ships
Newer, larger ships get more marketing attention, but older ships often have the lowest prices.
- Ships like Vision, Radiance, and Voyager Class often offer excellent deals.
- Consider refurbished ships in Royal Caribbean’s Amplified program, which add water slides, new venues, and updated decks while still offering affordable fares.
7. Be Flexible with Departure Ports
Being flexible with your departure port increases your chances of finding cheap cruise deals.
- Instead of Miami, try Tampa or Port Canaveral.
- Northeast travelers can look at Cape Liberty, Boston, or Baltimore.
- Even far-away ports may offer significant savings.
8. Be Open to Different Itineraries
Flexibility in your cruise itinerary is crucial.
- Avoid locking into a single destination if you want the absolute cheapest fares.
- Royal Caribbean offers something for every destination, from private islands to coral reefs.
- Being open to different itineraries maximizes your chance of scoring amazing deals.
9. Book a Guaranteed Cabin
A guaranteed cabin lets Royal Caribbean assign your room within your chosen category.
- Example: Book a guaranteed balcony, and your cabin is assigned anywhere from deck 7 forward to deck 12 aft.
- Pros: Can save over $100 or more.
- Cons: You can’t pick your exact location.
10. Kids Sail Free Promotions
Royal Caribbean offers promotions where children under 12 can sail free on cruises longer than four nights.
- Taxes and fees still apply.
- Blackout dates often coincide with school holidays.
- Flexible families can save hundreds of dollars with this promotion.
11. Consider Longer Cruises
Longer cruises aren’t always more expensive per day.
- Sometimes, longer itineraries like repositioning or transatlantic cruises have the lowest per-day cost.
- Flexible travelers can enjoy more time onboard for less money.
12. Check “Going, Going, Gone” Rates
Royal Caribbean publishes weekly PDF flyers of last-minute deals.
- Best to check Monday evening or early Tuesday morning.
- Deals often disappear quickly, so act fast if you see a fare that fits your budget.
13. Subscribe to Cruise Newsletters
Stay updated with official cruise line newsletters or travel blogs.
- Receive weekly notifications of current top deals and promotions.
- Examples: Royal Caribbean newsletter, RealGreenBlog newsletter.
14. Loyalty Pays Off
Frequent cruisers with Royal Caribbean’s Crown and Anchor Society enjoy perks like:
- Discounts on balcony and suite cabins.
- Single supplement reductions for select members.
- Complimentary perks like free drinks and laundry.
15. Use Special Rates for Military, Seniors, and Residents
Select groups can qualify for special discounted fares:
- Guests 55 years or older.
- Active or retired military personnel.
- Police, firefighters, airline personnel, and certain residents.
Travel agents can easily apply these discounts, saving you time and money.
Final Thoughts: Flexibility + Strategy = Maximum Savings
Finding the best cruise deal isn’t about compromising quality—it’s about planning smart, being flexible, and using insider strategies.
- Book early or last-minute, choose flexible itineraries, or sail during off-peak seasons.
- Use travel agents, loyalty programs, and special promotions to maximize savings.
- Whether it’s Royal Caribbean, Alaskan adventures, Caribbean cruises, or luxury voyages, your next trip can be unforgettable without breaking the bank.