How to Get a Cruise Deal

Choose Your Timing

For the luxe lines, book as soon as possible. Some companies announce sailings as early as a year and a half in advance at rates that are as much as 60 percent off, and come with spectacular extras like onboard credits, 2-for-1 deals, and free airfare and transfers. On the more mass-market lines, you may get early deals and upgrades, but the best fares right now are last-minute specials (though this could change in the months ahead as prices stabilize).