Many cruise lines advertise several deals and promotions during the wave season from January to March. The wave season, which is also known as the cruise industry’s version of Black Friday or Cyber Monday, is known for affordable cruise fares and onboard credits. Not just this, it also helps cruise lines get every sailing as fully booked as possible at the start of the year.
Read on to learn the effective tips to avail some of the best wave season deals to lock in a cruise vacation.
Why Book a Cruise Vacation During the Wave Season?
Here are the reasons to book a cruise vacation during the wave season:
- Best Time to Book a Cruise: Many cruise lines roll out dozens of deals during this time of the year. This allows you to compare different offers and find the highest value for your needs.
- Find Incentives: You can avail reduced deposits, free cabin upgrades, two-for-one deals, discounts on fares for the third and fourth guests, and even free airfare.
- Strong Onboard Credit Offers: Helping you save a lot of money onboard, complimentary credits let you indulge in a spa day and enjoy a great cruise without the worry of overspending on things like shore tours or Wi-Fi connectivity.
Top Tips to Get the Best Deals During the Wave Season
Let’s dive deeper to learn about the best ways to find a bargain during the wave season.
- Book Standby Cruise Deals: Book standby cruise deals that start at $100 per person per day. It is to be noted that your sailing won't be confirmed until two to seven days before departure under such deals. Holland America is known to come up with such promotional deals.
- Wait for Discounted Last-Minute Voyages: Often, cruise lines like Holland America and Royal Caribbean offer discounted last-minute voyages.
- Always Check the Fine Print: Promotions usually apply only to new bookings and come with some restrictions. Also, it is important to act fast as deals and promotions are not permanent.
Some Wave Season Deals to Grab in 2025
The following are some of the wave season deals that can be availed to book a cruise vacation:
Holland America Line, Princess, and Carnival:
Discounts, complimentary cabin upgrades, and free fares for third or fourth guests in the same cabin.
Cunard and Azamara:
Hundreds of dollars' worth of onboard credits.
Royal Caribbean International & Celebrity Cruises:
Discounted itineraries along with a discount of up to 75% on the second guest.
Regent Seven Seas Cruises:
20% discount on certain itineraries, complimentary suite upgrades, and discounted deposits.
Seabourn:
Up to $1,000 worth of credits and 15% off on select sailings.
The Bottom Line
By and large, wave season deals are designed to create immediate interest and demand. As these promotions are not forever, you must act fast if you see something interesting. Also, it is important to note that some wave season deals are so attractive that the inventory sells out quickly.
So, if a cruise vacation is on your bucket list, then the wave season is the best time to book for the same at discounted fares. Visit CruiseBooking.com to get the right deal for you.
