Most people think booking early always saves money. This is wrong about half the time.
Cruise lines play a pricing game that would make airline revenue managers jealous. They start with high prices to catch eager early bookers. Then they drop prices to fill empty cabins. Then they raise them again as sailing date approaches.
The sweet spot for most itineraries is 90 to 120 days before departure. By then the cruise line knows how well the sailing is selling. If cabins are moving slowly, prices drop. If demand is strong, you are probably too late for the best deals.
Popular sailings during school breaks, holidays, or Alaska summer season break this rule. Book these 12 to 18 months out. The cruise line knows these will sell regardless of price. Waiting means paying premium rates or settling for inside cabins.
New ships also ignore normal pricing patterns. Everyone wants to try the latest floating city. Prices start high and stay high until the novelty wears off. Give it a year or two if you want reasonable rates.
Repositioning cruises follow different rules entirely. These happen twice yearly when ships move between seasonal markets. Book these 6 to 9 months out when they first appear in the system. Prices only go up as departure approaches because inventory is limited.
If you want help sorting this out, that is literally what we do.
Like what you’re reading?
The Captain’s Log is published daily by Ernst Travel Agency. We plan, protect, and personalize your vacation at no extra cost to you. If something in today’s post sparked an idea, let’s talk.
Ernst Travel Agency · North Kingsville, OH · Serving clients nationwide · ernst.llc