13 Best Times to Find The Hottest Cruise Deals, According to Experts

Timing is your secret weapon when it comes to booking a budget-friendly voyage. But forget rigid rules — the best deals are a dance of flexibility and insider knowledge.

We've solved the mystery of cruise pricing, revealing the best ways to shop and the trends that'll turn your wanderlust into reality.

So, grab your best travel credit cards and buckle up — your perfect cruise awaits. 

Booking your cruise as far in advance as possible can lead to savings as cruise lines offer good rates at the outset.

By securing your spot, you snag a sweet deal and have your pick of the best staterooms and amenities.

Note that some cruises — particularly luxury world cruises and Disney cruises — start selling tickets years in advance. If you don't pounce right away, you risk missing out.

If you're flexible with your schedule and can drop everything for a last-minute advance, you might find some great cruise deals.

Cruise lines prefer to fill up every cabin, even if it means offering steep discounts right before departure. That's usually 45 to 90 days before the ship leaves port.

Note that you'll likely need to be flexible with accommodations, amenities, and itineraries.

If you know what cruise you want to take and it's not a luxe around-the-world adventure, experts say there's a specific window to book for savings.

"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," shared Jennifer DeLaCruz, a vice president at Carnival Cruise Lines.

The "wave season," from January to March, is when many cruise lines roll out their best promotions.

During this time, they try to attract early bookers for the upcoming year, offering perks like onboard credits, cabin upgrades, and reduced deposits.

Note that this applies mainly to Caribbean cruises, so the fall may be preferable if you're embarking on an Alaskan or Mediterranean voyage.

Is there a best time during the month — the beginning, middle, or end — to get the best deals on a cruise?

Not especially, as trends ebb and flow over the years. Plus, the factors that influence pricing are more about supply and demand than the time of the month.

So don't stress about the calendar too much.

Just as you may wonder about the time of the month, is there the best day of the week to book a cruise?

"I've been in this business for 28 years, and I've heard lots of theories," explained Mark Comfort, co-owner of Cruise Holidays. "I can't say there's one best day to book a cruise."

Again, pricing is much more dependent on availability.

The obvious one, yet so often overlooked. Don't hold back when you see a sale.

Cruise lines sometimes offer limited-time promotions, whether it's discounted fares, upgrades, or added amenities.

Because they want the boat fully booked, if they're not selling as expected, they drop the price. That translates into savings for you.

Black Friday and Cyber Monday aren't just for scoring deals on electronics and clothing; they're also days when cruise lines join in the chorus of discount sales.

Keep an eye out for discounted fare, free amenities, free passage for children, drink specials, upgrades, and more.

Be sure to read the fine print before you finalize any transactions.

Yes, they are still a thing. Your travel agent is your ally in the quest for the best cruise deal. They have insider knowledge about best practices, promotions, discounts, and perks.

They will also have tips and help you with any ancillary needs like lodging and transportation to and from the ship.

Just make sure your agent is reputable and has documented good reviews and experience.

Technology can be your friend in finding discounted cruise fares. Numerous apps and websites track cruise prices and alert you when they drop.

Example sites include Cruise Critic and Shipmate, which track fares and offer ancillary services. So, set up notifications and let the algorithms do the work for you.

If you're able to get a large group of people together for a cruise, you could get your ticket for a reduced price or, better yet, free.

Many cruise lines will give you cruise credit when you book a certain number of people — often 16 people in a total of eight staterooms.

You can use it to comp your ticket or spread the savings across the group.

To thank you for your service, some cruise lines offer complimentary tickets to first responders, active veterans, and law enforcement officers. 

There's fine print to contend with, such as blackout dates, accommodations, and the need to travel with a paying guest.

But if you can get a free ticket in exchange for your service, that's a great way to save money on travel. 

If you've hit a milestone when you earn travel rewards from your cruise line of choice, this might be the perfect time to book.

Most cruise lines allow you to use points for amenities and upgrades, reducing out-of-pocket expenses.

If you're lucky and make it into the highest echelon of a loyalty program, you may even qualify for a free cruise. What's better than that?

Navigating the ever-shifting tides of cruise pricing requires flexibility and a bit of knowledge.

With smart planning and a flexible spirit, you can start traveling more and chart your course toward unforgettable adventures.