Every January, the cruise lines tell you wave season is the time to book. Sometimes it is. Often it isn't. Here's what I tell clients in 2026.
The three booking windows that actually save money
Cruise pricing has three windows where the fare is most likely to be at its real low: itinerary release, wave season (Jan-Mar), and post-final-payment.
- Itinerary release (18-24 months out): newly released sailings are at their lowest published fare. Cabin selection is best. Repositioning cruises especially.
- Wave season (January-March): cruise lines run their biggest perk promotions (free drinks, free Wi-Fi, OBC). Headline fare isn't always lower, but bundled value is.
- Post-final payment (60-90 days before sailing): unsold cabins get marked down to fill the ship. Cabin selection is poor; pricing is best. Risky but real.
Cheapest months to sail
- Caribbean: January-early March (post-holiday lull) and September-November (hurricane season)
- Alaska: May and September (shoulder season - same scenery, lower fare)
- Mediterranean: April-May and October-November (warm, half the crowds)
- Bahamas: anytime outside spring break and Christmas
When to book early vs late
- Book early (12-24 months): suites, Haven/Yacht Club, peak holidays, school break weeks, family group cruises
- Book later (3-6 months): inside and ocean view cabins on off-peak weeks, solo cabins, repositioning sailings
- Last minute (under 90 days): only if you're flexible on dates, cabin, and itinerary
The advisor advantage
When you book through me, I monitor your fare for drops after you book. Cruise lines drop fares constantly, and I rebook you at the lower price when the policy allows. This often saves clients $200-800 per booking with zero work on their end.
Frequently asked questions
Want help planning yours?
I'll match the right ship, cabin, and itinerary to your trip and watch the price after you book. Free service, paid by cruise lines.
Keep reading
Written by Marissa Wright
Cruise & Beach Vacation Specialist
Marissa is a cruise specialist focused on Royal Caribbean and a lifelong cruiser. In her first year as an advisor she booked 300+ cruises across Royal Caribbean, Carnival, Norwegian, Celebrity, and Disney. Her planning service is always free.