last minute cruise deals 90 day ticker

Call us: 1.800.528.9300 Low Price Guarantee

Get Exclusive Deals by Email!

Request a Quote

Never pay retail for any Cruise. For our UNADVERTISED Price, fill out this form for real cash savings!

Disclaimer: Prices are for new bookings only. Prices listed are per person, cruise only, and based on double occupancy and in USD. Prices include port charges but not airfare, air tax, surcharges or government taxes, nor any promotions, cruise only. Brochure Price is based on the itinerary's highest brochure price. All prices, itineraries, accommodations and dates are subject to change without notice and at any time. Availability is limited and must be confirmed at time of deposit. Call your Pavlus Travel Planner for current promotions that may be combinable with cruise only prices. Prices above do not include promotions. Prices change frequently and Pavlus website prices are not guaranteed until full deposit is received by Pavlus. We are not responsible for errors, omissions, or changes in these prices until a booking has been confirmed by one of our agents. Please call us toll free at 1-800-528-9300 to confirm current prices and availability.

To request Pavlus Travel to remove your personal information, please complete the following form and indicate which services you would like your information removed from. Please see our Privacy Policy for more information.

Submit Request

Request a Galapagos Quote for 11/1/2020 – Galapagos Inner Loop – 7 Nights Roundtrip Baltra | From $8,512

Request a Galapagos Quote for 9/1/2019 – Galapagos Outer Loop – 7 Nights Roundtrip Baltra | From $8,743

Request a Galapagos Quote for 8/11/2019 – Galapagos Inner Loop – 7 Nights Roundtrip Baltra | From $9,380

All fares are in US dollars, per person, based on double occupancy, and reflect promotional savings, are for new bookings only, are subject to availability, and must be booked by September 1, 2019. Promotional savings in categories F-B on the December 21st sailing and categories C-D on the December 27th sailing only. *Included roundtrip airfare from Los Angeles or San Francisco is based on availability in class of service. Offer may be combined with applicable 3rd guest in stateroom offer but may not be combinable with other offers. Port, security, and handling charges of $149 per person are additional. Additional terms and conditions may apply. Call for details. Ship’s registry: Bahamas.

Protect Your Trip »

How to Find Last-Minute Cruise Deals

With the rising cost of hotels and airfare, cruises are still one of the most affordable ways to travel.

Getty Images

Cruising on a budget? There are many resources available for travelers looking to save money.

Cruising is back – in a big way – after all the turmoil and shutdowns in the industry during the COVID-19 pandemic.

According to Cruise Lines International Association's 2023 State of the Cruise Industry report, the intent to cruise is higher now than it was in December 2019, before the pandemic. About 85% of travelers who have been on a cruise will cruise again, which is 6% higher than it was pre-COVID.

John Lovell, president of the Travel Leaders Group division of Internova Travel Group, tells us, "Cruising has roared back since the pandemic and the lifting of sailing restrictions. It's a true success story! That means that we will see (and are seeing) full ships, even more so than pre-pandemic." He adds, "While Caribbean cruises remain popular, travelers are embracing river cruises, expedition cruises, smaller ships and off-the-beaten-path ports. There really is a cruise for everyone."

CLIA's report also states that passenger volume for 2023 is projected to reach an astounding 31.5 million passengers – 106% of the volume in 2019. In addition, the cruise industry is seeing higher numbers of solo travelers and people with mobility challenges – and there are more Gen X and millennials booking cruise vacations.

Chris Gray Faust, the executive editor of Cruise Critic, says that cancellation policies have also returned to normal with cruise bookings back to pre-pandemic levels, particularly for mainstream lines like Royal Caribbean International and Carnival Cruise Line . You also probably won't find many deals on sailings in high season and on the most anticipated new ships .

With more demand for cruise travel – one of the fastest-growing sectors of tourism – how can you find a last-minute cruise deal in 2023? Read on to find out how to book your dream cruise vacation for less.

When to find the best cruise deals

Scoring a great cruise deal depends on several factors, including the type of experience you're looking for ( adults-only or family-friendly , for example), the destination, the length of the sailing, the time of year and your flexibility to travel.

Lovell recommends booking early for the best pricing. "For many cruise lines, especially the expedition products and with some luxury lines, the best time to find deals is when they open new sailings," he says. "The cruises fill up quickly, so usually the best offer is the first offering in terms of pricing. Some of the larger cruise lines will have pricing and value-added promotions on sailings that still have open space about 100 days prior to sailing."

Summer 2023

If you're planning on traveling within the next few months, you may be able to score a last-minute cruise deal to some destinations, such as Alaska . According to Bob Levinstein, CEO of CruiseCompete.com, "There are still some great deals for the summer, especially in Alaska, which is particularly soft right now."

A representative from Priceline notes that the travel agency is also offering great deals for summer cruises to Alaska, the Caribbean and the Mediterranean.

When you're looking at pricing for cruises, be sure to compare fares that include the same costs, Levinstein advises. Some advertised fares that seem like an incredible deal don't include the port taxes and fees, which can substantially raise the price of your vacation.

Within 90 days of sailing

Gray Faust says the window for finding last-minute cruise deals is within 90 days of a sailing. "That three-month mark is when final deposits are due on a cruise, and historically the last point you could cancel your cruise without financial penalty," she says. "At that point, cruise lines try to fill those vacant cabins, usually in the form of slashed fares to entice people to book."

Levinstein agrees. "While the market has heated up, the closer-in the sailing the more likely you will find a bargain." He adds, "But as last-minute deals are based on how full a particular sailing on a particular ship might be at a given time, shopping around is often rewarded regardless of overall market conditions."

Fall or spring

You may find cheaper cruise fares if you're able to book a last-minute cruise departing in the spring or fall when most families with children in school can't travel. As such, cruise lines typically have more availability and lower pricing during these times.

Wave season

If you're willing to book a cruise during the promotional period known as "wave season" – which spans early January through the end of March – you may be able to find a last-minute cruise deal that fits your budget.

Hurricane season

Planning a last-minute cruise during hurricane season in the Caribbean and Mexico – from June 1 to Nov. 30 – is another option. These months coincide with the shoulder season in those regions, so it can be a great time to find cruise savings. If you do book a cruise during hurricane season, consider investing in a travel insurance policy that has trip interruption and trip cancellation benefits. You'll also want to make sure that all of your prepaid and nonrefundable expenses are covered in the policy.

Read: The Best Cruise Insurance Plans

Early December

Levinstein says the first two weeks of December are also a great time to take a cruise. Early December is typically when families are preparing for the holidays at home or getting ready to travel at the end of the month for Christmas and New Year's, so it's an ideal time to go on a cruise for less.

Book a last-minute cruise deal on GoToSea , a service of U.S. News.

How to find last-minute cruise deals

Cruise line sites

If you're internet-savvy and don't mind perusing the cruise lines' websites individually, check out their advertised discounted fares, included amenities and special bonus exclusive offers. These special fares often include free upgrades, airfare and credit for onboard spending. The types and level of perks may increase depending on the stateroom category.

For example, Norwegian Cruise Line offers a number of Free at Sea offers. These deals include unlimited open bar, shore excursion credits, dining at specialty restaurants, complimentary Wi-Fi and discounted rates for the second guest. Third and fourth guests staying in the same stateroom even get to sail for free with some deals.

In addition to the Free at Sea offers, Norwegian features CruiseFirst, a special bonus offer that essentially allows cruisers to earn free money. For example, if you purchase a $150 CruiseFirst certificate today for a six-day or longer voyage, it will double in value and you'll have $300 to spend on a cruise that you can take as early as 120 days from the purchase date. The certificates expire within three years.

If you're looking for reduced fares on a luxury cruise, it'll likely be more challenging to find a last-minute deal, with even lengthy – and expensive – world cruises selling out within hours. Levinstein explains this is because there's more demand than supply, when compared with the entry-level market.

Tips on Trips and Expert Picks Newsletter

Travel tips, vacation ideas and more to make your next vacation stellar.

Sign up to receive the latest updates from U.S News & World Report and our trusted partners and sponsors. By clicking submit, you are agreeing to our Terms and Conditions & Privacy Policy .

Cruise deal aggregator sites

If you prefer to use cruise deal aggregator sites, you can find last-minute cruises across the industry all in one place. Simply sort your findings by the month you'd like to travel, the length of your intended trip and where you wish to cruise. These are some of the best resources for finding cruise discounts:

• Cruise Critic
• Tripadvisor
• Cruise Compete

"Some lines began steering away from last-minute fare drops a few years ago, so keep an eye out for value-add deals as well," Gray Faust says. "While you might not get a super cheap base fare, things like free gratuities, drink packages and/or shore excursions could actually save you even more than you'd save on a slashed price."

'Kids sail free' fares

Some cruise lines allow kids to sail free , greatly reducing the total price of and/or adding value to your cruise. MSC Cruises allows guests ages 17 and younger to cruise for free year-round when they're the third and fourth passengers in the same stateroom with their parents. If you're considering a family cruise, check out the other cruise lines that offer similar promotions where children sail free, including Holland America Line and Norwegian.

Book a family cruise on  GoToSea , a service of U.S. News.

Cruise line loyalty programs

Consider joining your preferred cruise line's loyalty and membership programs for free upgrades. These are some of the best options:

• Carnival Cruise Line's VIFP Club:  This program features up to 40% discounts off fares, up to $50 in onboard credits, access to exclusive deals and other perks. Carnival VIFP members receive a loyalty number and can watch their points and rewards accrue online.
• Viking Cruises ' Explorer Society:   Viking's program offers past cruisers travel credits to use on future voyages, as well as members-only cocktail parties on the ship. Members are also privy to new itineraries and limited-time offers.
• Princess Cruises ' Captain's Circle:  Benefits with the Captain's Circle are based on the number of cruises you've taken. Some perks include early access to new itineraries, discounts for the onboard retail shops and excursions, complimentary minibar setups, priority disembarkation, access to the Platinum and Elite lounges, complimentary wine tasting events, and more.
• Norwegian Cruise Line's Latitudes Rewards:  This tiered program allows cruisers to earn discounts on select Norwegian products and services, such as beverage packages and signature spa treatments. You also get priority check-in, an exclusive cocktail party while on board, laundry service and more.

Cruise deal aggregator loyalty programs

You can also find loyalty programs through sites such as Expedia. An Expedia Rewards membership is free and offers discounts on travel; depending on your level (Blue, Silver or Gold), there are additional perks and benefits. You also earn rewards points to use toward booking future trips.

"On the Expedia website and through nearly 300 Expedia Cruises retail locations across North America, Expedia offers Member Prices, saving travelers up to 10% on last-minute deals, along with exclusive promotions on a variety of cruises," a company spokesperson says. "Expedia also secures special rates in advance on the most popular itineraries and cruise lines through the Expedia Exclusive Staterooms program. Most of all, travelers can reach out to one of Expedia's Vacation Consultants who can help navigate the current environment, answer any questions and help find the best value on their ideal vacations."

Read:  The Best Travel Rewards Programs

Travel advisors

Enlisting the help of a knowledgeable travel advisor can make planning easier – and it's one of the best ways to find last-minute cruise deals. Advisors, especially those specializing in cruises, usually have unique access to perks and discounts for big savings with cruise lines that can further enhance the value of your vacation and/or lower the total price.

Lovell agrees with this tip. "Demand for cruising is very high. I would always recommend booking early and working with a travel advisor," he says. "While there are lots of new ships, they often fill up quickly since travelers are eager to try out the latest and greatest the cruise lines have to offer."

Some aggregator sites also have their own travel advisors to assist in your search. Head of Priceline Cruises Denise Bialek says, "We highly recommend calling one of our Priceline Cruise advisors, as they are the most knowledgeable about the best rate options, know how to combine promotions to get the best deal and will save you time navigating the plethora of cruise lines, cabin categories, pricing, port charges and more." She adds, "An advantage of booking with one of our Priceline Cruise advisors is access to all cruise line offers and loyalty perks, in addition to our many Priceline exclusive deals, all supported by 24/7 service."

Additionally, keep in mind that travel advisors have insight into additional restrictions and the condition of each cruise line.

All-inclusive cruises

Though it may seem counterintuitive, you may be able to score a better value by booking an all-inclusive (or mostly all-inclusive) voyage than a budget cruise with a cheaper base fare. While these options are primarily in the luxury cruise line category, some fares are especially attractive thanks to included airfare costs, transfers to the ship, meals at all dining venues, premium wines and spirits, Wi-Fi access, and more.

When you book one of these cruises, you'll know the total cost upfront, and there won't be any unwanted surprises when you close out your shipboard account at the end of the cruise. Some of the traditional extras on noninclusive cruise lines – like bottled water, snacks, specialty coffee, gratuities or even beach equipment rentals on the line's private island – can add up quickly, diminishing the impact of your original fare savings. These are some of the all-inclusive cruise options:

• Viking Ocean Cruises:  On  Viking Ocean Cruises , travelers enjoy veranda staterooms; all meals (including alternative dining); beer, wine and soft drinks with lunch and dinner; one complimentary excursion in every port; and more, all in the base fares.
• Silversea Cruises:  Silversea Cruises  boasts door-to-door all-inclusive fares that encompass private transfers, gourmet meals, butler service, beverages and at least one complimentary excursion in every port.
• Regent Seven Seas Cruises:  Regent Seven Seas Cruises  offers two-for-one all-inclusive fares that also feature business class airfare on international flights, free two- or three-night land programs, a one-night pre-cruise hotel stay, free unlimited beverages and open bars, complimentary dining in specialty restaurants, unlimited Wi-Fi, shore excursions, prepaid gratuities, and more.

These lines also offer other discounts, and you may be able to combine them with exclusive offers that your travel advisor can access. Book an all-inclusive cruise on  GoToSea , a service of U.S. News.

Short cruises

Three- to five-night cruises generally equate to instant savings since they have lower fares than voyages lasting a week or longer. You may also be able to drive to the port, saving on airfare and other travel expenses. If you sail from ports in Florida or Texas, you can visit destinations in the Bahamas, the Caribbean and Mexico; ports of call may include stops at private, cruise line-owned islands like Royal Caribbean International's Perfect Day at CocoCay in the Bahamas.

If you're in the northeast U.S., you can book a short sailing to Bermuda  aboard a few different lines. Bermuda sailings with Carnival Cruises depart from New York City and Norfolk, Virginia, while Royal Caribbean sails to the nearby island from New York City and Baltimore .

From Los Angeles , embark on four-night Royal Caribbean cruises to Catalina Island and Ensenada, Mexico. With Celebrity Cruises , passengers can book six-night voyages that call on select California cities and Vancouver . The line also offers six-night, round-trip sailings from Los Angeles to Cabo San Lucas, Mexico.

Shorter itineraries are less expensive not only because of their length, but also because they typically don't use the cruise lines' newest, largest vessels. Still, some ships have been updated, including Royal Caribbean's Freedom of the Seas, which underwent a $116 million amplification in 2020. Its upcoming itineraries make short trips between Miami and the Bahamas.

Repositioning cruises

Repositioning cruises are another option for booking a great cruise deal. The price on these voyages is less expensive since most of the days are spent at sea as the ships move from one region of the world to another. The itineraries are longer, so you'll need to have a flexible schedule for extended travel.

One of the pros of booking these cruises is that you'll get to see incredible destinations like Hawaii, Australia, Fiji, Portugal, Spain and Italy – with considerable savings. If you enjoy spending time on board the ship and don't need a port of call to explore every day, then this may be a great cost-saving option to consider.

For example, Celebrity has a 16-night Mediterranean Passage Transatlantic sailing from Rome to Tampa, Florida , in November 2023. The sailing includes eight ports and nine sea days, with fares starting at $899 per person.

Want to plan a cruise? See the top cruises on  GoToSea , a service of U.S. News.

Email alerts

Sign up for email alerts to receive updates on discounted pricing through the cruise line websites, travel aggregators or your travel advisor. That way, you'll be the first to know about limited-time offers, last-minute deals or value-adds that may make the price just right.

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Gwen Pratesi has been an avid cruiser since her early 20s. She has sailed to destinations around the globe on nearly every type of cruise ship built, including the newest megaships, luxury yachts and traditional masted sailing ships. Most recently, she traveled on a small expedition vessel in Antarctica and crossed the notorious Drake Passage twice. She covers the travel and culinary industries for major publications, including U.S. News & World Report.

You may also be interested in:

• The Best Cruise Lines for the Money
• Cruise Packing List: Essentials to Bring
• How Much Does a Cruise Cost?
• The Trick to Finding Cheap Flights

Cheap Tropical Vacations

Tags: Travel , Cruises , Travel Tips , Budget Travel

World's Best Places To Visit

• # 1 South Island, New Zealand
• # 4 Bora Bora

If you make a purchase from our site, we may earn a commission. This does not affect the quality or independence of our editorial content.

You May Also Like

The 13 best key west tours of 2024.

Gwen Pratesi May 3, 2024

Essentials to Pack for a Cruise

Gwen Pratesi and Amanda Norcross May 2, 2024

Swimming With Pigs in the Bahamas

Amanda Norcross May 2, 2024

The 15 Best Chicago Tours for 2024

John Rodwan May 1, 2024

The 10 Best Harry Potter Tours in London

Marisa Méndez April 30, 2024

12 Cheap Fourth of July Getaways

April 29, 2024

The Best Tours of Buckingham Palace

Laura French April 29, 2024

Flight Canceled or Delayed? What to Do

Amanda Norcross April 26, 2024

The Best Beach Hats

Megan Johnson and Sharael Kolberg April 26, 2024

The Best Florence Tours

John Rodwan April 25, 2024

• Favorites & Watchlist Find a Cruise Cruise Deals Cruise Ships Destinations Manage My Cruise​ FAQ Perfect Day at CocoCay Weekend Cruises Crown & Anchor Society Cruising Guides Gift Cards Contact Us Royal Caribbean Group
• Back to Main Menu
• Search Cruises " id="rciHeaderSideNavSubmenu-2-1" class="headerSidenav__link" href="/cruises" target="_self"> Search Cruises
• Cruise Deals
• Weekend Cruises
• Last Minute Cruises
• Family Cruises​
• 2024-2025 Cruises
• All Cruise Ships " id="rciHeaderSideNavSubmenu-4-1" class="headerSidenav__link" href="/cruise-ships" target="_self"> All Cruise Ships
• Cruise Dining
• Onboard Activities
• Cruise Rooms
• The Cruise Experience
• All Cruise Destinations " id="rciHeaderSideNavSubmenu-5-1" class="headerSidenav__link" href="/cruise-destinations" target="_self"> All Cruise Destinations
• Cruise Ports
• Shore Excursions
• Perfect Day at CocoCay
• Caribbean Cruises
• Bahamas Cruises​
• Alaska Cruises
• European Cruises​
• Mediterranean Cruises​
• Royal Destinations
• Cruise Planner
• Make a Payment
• Beverage Packages​
• Shore Excursions​
• Dining Packages​
• Royal Gifts
• Check-In for My Cruise
• Update Guest Information
• Book a Flight
• Transportation
• Book a Hotel
• Required Travel Documents
• Redeem Cruise Credit
• All FAQs " id="rciHeaderSideNavSubmenu-7-1" class="headerSidenav__link" href="/faq" target="_self"> All FAQs
• Boarding Requirements
• Future Cruise Credit​
• Travel Documents​
• Check-in​ & Boarding Pass
• Transportation​
• Perfect Day at CocoCay​
• Post-Cruise Inquiries
• Royal Caribbean
• Celebrity Cruises

SCORE BIG SAVINGS ON

Last minute cruises, seas the day with an impromptu vacay.

SAIL LAST MINUTE DEALS FROM YOUR BACKYARD

Ditch the everyday. Score a last minute cruise deal on that gamechanging getaway you’ve been eyeing — because adventure is always a good idea.

{{error.text}} {{error.link.label}}

CRUISE FROM CLOSE TO HOME

With our bold last minute cruise deals, there’s never been a better time – or price – to enjoy an epic adventure. Make every moment count with a quick getaway to some of the world’s most incredible destinations — all sailing from a port near you.

CRUISES FROM

STARTING FROM 

CAPE LIBERTY

MUST-SEE DESTINATIONS

Amp up your vacation with limited time deals on amazing bucket list adventures. Island hop throughout the Caribbean’s world-famous beaches. Venture into Baja wine country in Mexico. Or kayak along gigantic glaciers and dramatic fjords in Alaska. Breathtaking destinations around the globe are yours for the taking on these last minute cruises, right now.

THE BAHAMAS

THE CARIBBEAN

YOUR LAST MINUTE VACATION GOT MORE INTERESTING

Block your calendar for adventure — stat. From temple trekking in Cozumel to whale watching in Ensenada . Or lounging in the first Overwater Cabanas in The Bahamas at our private destination, Perfect Day at CocoCay. With these unbeatable last minute cruise deals an incredible vacation is just a click away.

MAKE IT SHORT AND SWEET

You don’t need a lot of days off to enjoy a thrilling vacation. Explore captivating tropical shores on a weekend getaway to the Caribbean’s top spots — at our best prices ever. Like our gamechanging private destination, Perfect Day at CocoCay where you can conquer the tallest waterslide in North America, one minute and lounge in the first overwater Cabanas in The Bahamas, the next.

EXPLORE SHORT CRUISE DEALS

LINGER A LITTLE LONGER

Venture further and save even more when you level up on deeper discovery with exciting weeklong itineraries to thrilling destinations. From snorkeling the azure waters of beautiful St. Thomas to dog sledding across massive glaciers in Alaska, chase the thrill of adventure on a weeklong vacay that brings on the bold.

EXPLORE WEEKLONG CRUISE DEALS

GET ROYALS DEALS, SIGN UP

Sign up to receive information about our special offers and deals. You can unsubscribe at any time. For more details about how we use your information, view our Privacy Policy .

YOU DESERVE A GETAWAY

EXPLORE OUR CRUISE DEALS

YOUR VACATION BUCKET LIST WON'T CHECK ITSELF

Ditch the everyday. Score a last minute cruise deal on that gamechanging getaway you’ve been eyeing — because adventure is always a good idea. 

PERFECT DAY AT COCOCAY

STARTING FROM

CARIBBEAN CRUISES

jamaica CRUISES

COZUMEL & CANCUN

explore more

Previewing: Promo Dashboard Campaigns

My Personas

Code: ∅.

90 Day Ticker

Click on the new 90dayticker.com displaying lowest cruise prices.

• 1-855-932-1711
• My Account Hello Credits My Account Log out

Last Minute Cruise Deals

Ready to go on a last minute cruise vacation? If you're ready for a change of scenery, take advantage of our most competitive fares on cruises setting sail in the next 60-90 days. These cruise deals are only available for a limited time.

Alaska Cruises

Europe cruises, canada & new england cruises, experience holland america line.

Help Widget copy TBD

HAL Home page

Enjoy the timeless elegance of ocean travel. From the moment you step aboard one of our spacious, mid-sized ships, you'll feel the difference.

A Culinary Journey

Led by a team of world-class celebrity chefs, go on a culinary journey on any of our ships. Satisfy your every craving as you indulge in one of our onboard restaurants or enjoy snacks poolside.

Onboard Entertainment

Experience the best in cruise ship entertainment. At the center is Music Walk®: an exclusive collection of performances. You’ll find something that sings to your heart, night after perfect night.

Sign Up for Special Offers

• Cruise Deals

Last Minute Cruises

Cruise search, special cruise offers.

Royal Caribbean

• 60% OFF 2nd Guest + Kids Sail FREE + Instant Savings + FREE GRATUITIES or Up to $1,700 Onboard Credit

Norwegian Cruise Line

• 50% OFF Cruises + Take All FREE + BOGO Airfare + Up to $1,700 Cash Back

Holland America

• Up to 45% OFF + Up to $1,000 Onboard Crerdit + 50% Reduced Deposit + 3rd & 4th Guests FREE

Princess Cruises

• Up to 35% OFF + 3rd & 4th Guest FREE + Up to $1,785 Onboard Credit

Celebrity Cruises

• Up to 75% OFF 2nd Guest + FREE Amenities Included: FREE Beverage Package + Basic Wi-Fi + Up to $1,700 Onboard Credit

Featured Cruise Deals

Other cruise options.

• Last Minute Cruise Deals
• Land Tour Deals
• View Golf Vacations
• Shop by Destination
• Shop by Cruise Line
• Cruise From Port Near You
• Holiday Sailings
• Luxury Cruises

If you're looking to book a last minute cruise deal, Cruise.com can help. We offer a large selection of cruises that depart soon. These last minute cruises, at unbelievably low prices, set sail in just days weeks or months and can often be found for a steep discount.

Last minute cruises offer a great opportunity to get exceptional cruise deals, discounts, upgrades and other valuable offers on itineraries that cruise lines are looking to fill for close in departures. If you are flexible and want to take advantage of great last minute cruise deals you can book online or call one of our cruise experts to book your next cruise.

Featured Last Minute Cruise Deals

Best last minute cruise deals by length.

• Up to $1,700 ONBOARD CREDIT: EXCLUSIVE OFFER
• Princess Premier Upgrade: Beverage Package, Wi-Fi, Crew Appreciation, Specialty Dining + more
• Up to 35% Off + 3rd & 4th Guests Sail Free + More
• MILITARY: Up to $250 Onboard Spending
• ALL In: FREE Drinks + Wi-Fi + (Up to a $1,100 value) (select sailings & categories)
• Military & Civil Service Rates - Must call to book
• Up to $1600 CASH BACK : EXCLUSIVE OFFER
• FREE UPGRADE SALE: Great Rates + 2 category upgrade
• Early Saver: up to $50 onboard credit per room + 50% reduced deposits
• Pack & Go Sale: Great Guarantee Rates
• Save with Senior Rates: Guests over 55 can save with a senior rate
• Receive Great Reduced Rates: on select staterooms and sailings
• Fun Select Rates: Enjoy a Two Category Upgrade
• Reduced Rates for Military Personnel!
• Up to $1700 ONBOARD CREDIT: EXCLUSIVE OFFER
• Great Savings: up to 75% OFF 2nd Guest: on select ship and sail dates
• 3rd/4th/5th Guests Sail Free: on select ship and sail dates
• Get up to $200 Savings: per stateroom on select ships and sail dates
• Exciting Deals: INCREDIBLE RATES
• ALL INCLUDED: Free Classic Beverage Package + Basic Wi-Fi
• SAVE: up to $50 ONBOARD CREDIT on select departures!
• Up to $1700 CASH BACK: EXCLUSIVE OFFER
• 35% Off Cruise Fares + Take All FREE: on select categories & sailings
• FREE Open Bar, Specialty Dining, Wi-Fi, Excursion Credit: & more
• 50% Reduced Deposit: Club Balcony Suites & below
• Cruise Next Double Up : (select categories & sailings)
• EXCLUSIVE: FREE GRATUITIES
• BOGO60 Sale: 60% OFF 2nd Guest + 30% OFF 3rd/4th Guests
• $50 Onboard Credit on select Royal Caribbean Cruises!
• FREE Drinks, FREE Gratuities & Excursion Credit
• PERFECT DAY AT COCO CAY
• Up to $2,800 OFF: compliments of Cruise.com
• Save Up to 25% on select sailings
• Kids Sail FREE: Guest 12 & under SAIL FREE (select 3 night or longer sailings)
• EXCLUSIVE Rates: Book Now and Save
• My Drinks Packages: on select sailings and categories
• Exclusive Inclusions : Free Gratuities, Unlimited Wi-Fi and more
• Up to $100 ONBOARD CREDIT: EXCLUSIVE OFFER
• Special Rates for U.S. Military Personnel - Limited Time!
• 3rd & 4th Guests Sail Free : with Free at Sea (select sailings)
• EXCLUSIVE Get Up To $300 Onboard Spending: on select categories & sailings
• $25 Onboard Credit
• Amenities include a Cocktail Reception, Exclusive Shore Event + more
• Back to Back Savings: Save up to $200 Savings when you book a back to back cruise
• $50 Onboard Credit
• Flash Sale: Cruise From $199 With Free Balcony Upgrades
• Up to 50% OFF, Up to $300 Onboard Credit + Reduced Deposit: on select categories and sailings
• Up to $50 Onboard Credit
• Up to $50 ONBOARD CREDIT: EXCLUSIVE OFFER
• Buy 1st Guest Air, 2nd Guest Flies FREE: from select gateways
• Up to $200 Onboard Spending Money + $99 Deposit
• $85 ONBOARD CREDIT!
• $50 ONBOARD CREDIT: EXCLUSIVE OFFER
• $75 ONBOARD CREDIT: EXCLUSIVE OFFER
• Up to $1700 ONBOARD CREDIT: EXCLUSIVE
• FREE Beverage Package, Wi-fi, Excursions + More: on select categories & sailings
• FREE SPECIALTY DINING for 2: on select categories, ships and sail dates
• Receive One Extra Latitude Point: per night on select sailings
• Up to $200 ONBOARD CREDIT: EXCLUSIVE OFFER
• Military Special - Up to $250 Onboard Credit
• Complimentary Canapés
• Champagne Balcony Breakfast for Two
• $85 ONBOARD CREDIT: Exclusive Offer
• 3rd & 4th Guests $99 : with Free at Sea (select sailings)
• FREE GRATUITIES: on select categories and sailings
• Up To 50% of Single Supplement Waived: select sailings & categories
• Get Up To $200 Onboard Spending: on select categories and sailings

All offers are based on select sailings and categories and are subject to availability at time of booking. All rates are per person based on double occupancy.

Modal title

EXCLUSIVE MEMBER SAVINGS

• Forgot Password?

Often cruise lines offer special rates that cannot be displayed to the general public. By registering with Cruise.com you will be able to view these special rates and offers.

Register with Cruise.com to get access to:

• Exclusive Rates
• Special Amenities

Login to Your Account

There was an error! Please re-enter your credentials and try submitting the form again.

Reset Your Password

Please enter the email associated with your account so that we may send you a link to reset your password.

An email was sent to the address provided with instructions on how to reset your password.

Oops! There was an error with the email you provided.

Singles Discounts

To see cruises that offer low single supplements, use the Find a Bargain box on the left.

Cruise lines generally charge a "single supplement" to passengers traveling solo. From the cruise line's perspective, what they are selling is cabin space, and if there are two or more people in a cabin, they split the cost of that space. People traveling alone pay for all the space by themselves.

Most cruise lines start with the per-person rate based on double occupancy and add 50-100% to the price for a single. That means that a cabin that sells for $1,000 per person based on double occupancy would be sold to a single for $1,500 to $2,000.

At Vacations To Go, we're sympathetic to our single customers' desires for a great price. We've scoured tens of thousands of departures to identify the lowest single supplements for our customers. In some cases, there's no single supplement at all.

Last Minute Cruises

You want to go on a cruise right now? Find the best last minute deals and leave with big savings within the next 30 days.

Very good price

14 Night Alaska

Vancouver; Ketchikan; Sitka; Haines; Juneau, Alaska; Wrangell, Alaska; Prince Rupert; Alert... Vancouver

Please login or register to see price prediction!

8 Night Bermuda

Cape Liberty (Bayonne), New Jersey; Martha's Vineyard, Massachuset... Cape Liberty (Bayonne), New Jersey

7 Night Alaska

Seattle; Puget Sound; Juneau, Alaska; Sitka; Ketchikan; Victoria; Seattle

Anchorage (Whittier), Alaska; Sitka; Juneau, Alaska; Vancouver; Vancouver

Vancouver; Skagway; Endicott Arm; Juneau, Alaska; Ketchikan; Vancouver

9 Night Europe

Southampton; Zeebrugge (Bruges), Belgium; Amsterdam; Oslo; Aarhus; Warnemunde (Berlin), Ge... Copenhagen

15 Night Africa

Dubai; Suez Canal Transit; Suez Canal Transit; Argostoli, Kefalonia, Greece; Corfu; Ko... Trieste, Italy

39 Night Asia And Asia Pacific

Tokyo; Kagoshima, Japan; Seogwipo; Keelung (Taipei), Taiwan; Nagasaki, Japan; Aburatsu (Tou... Vancouver

12 Night Europe

Southampton (For London), England; Cork Ireland; Dublin; Belfast; H... Southampton (For London), England

10 Night Europe

Venice (Trieste), Italy; Split, Croatia; Dubrovnik; Corfu; Messina; Civitavecchia Rome, It... Barcelona

Find perfect last minute cruises and cruise deals for your spontaneous getaway

It’s never too late to look for a cruise and enjoy a spontaneous time-out on the world's seas. There won't be anything next weekend and you have to relax from your everyday life? Who doesn't know this moment? As cruise experts, we have the perfect solution for you, your family, friends or partner. Book a last minute cruise trip that you will always remember and from which you can get back into the hustle and bustle of your day-to-day life completely refreshed. With our cruise search we show you the best last minute cruise deals leaving in the next 30 days. So you can easily find the perfect vacation for the best price without stress. From South America, to Australia or the Caribbean, even cruises leaving soon offer you a wide variety of ways to discover the world. And departing in less than a month, you can get often a great discount. Especially on Mediterranean cruises, you can find a real bargain booking a last minute cruise in low season. Our cruise finder makes it easier than ever for you to find the perfect vacation. Simply select the destination that suits your wishes, the departure port that is most practical for you, your favorite cruise line and the cruise length. We will show you your perfect last minute cruise.

Plan your last minute cruise vacation with the most popular cruise lines and exciting cruise destinations

When you are looking for your perfect last minute cruise vacation, you have to keep some aspects in mind, so that your cruise search will be easy and successful. Unfortunately you have to say goodbye to the idea of getting a super last minute offer, because cruise lines close their passenger lists 24 to 48 hours before departure. Therefore, you need to plan your cruise a little bit more ahead. But don't worry. You can still experience the impulsive feeling as even the best cruise lines sometimes have space available that they provide to spontaneous travellers. Therefore, you can enjoy all the luxury, service and onboard offers with a last minute cruise like on any other long planned cruise. Savour for example the beautiful beaches and the nature with a Caribbean cruise from Princess cruises or Royal Caribbean. Sail to the Bahamas with the Norwegian cruise line or get to know Hawaii with a Holland America cruise. The most popular mainstream cruise lines such as Carnival cruise line or Royal Caribbean offer lots to little onboard spending, so that you can fully enjoy your journey. When you are looking for a luxury last minute experience, there are also cruises from premium cruise lines such as Windstar cruises, Cunard or Azamara Club cruises. From a 3-day-cruise to a cruise length of 21 days, with a last minute getaway you can sail away whenever you want and for as long as you want. Whether you want to snorkel in turquoise water, explore history with a European cruise or let yourself be enchanted by the nature and wildlife in Alaska. With the diverse onboard offers of the best cruise ships, no wish is left unfulfilled. Whether you prefer relaxation in the spa, excitement on shows, doing sports or numerous dining options. The shore excursions of the cruise lines will make your cruise even more unique and memorable. Sounds far-fetched to you right now? With cruises leaving soon in our cruise search it is right in front of you just a few clicks away.

Get your cheap last minute cruise trip and save money with excellent deals

When you have decided and booked your perfect cruise, you will not only enjoy anticipation, but also celebrate that you have saved money. With our cruise search we show you the best last minute cruise deals and reduced rates. Of course, the price of your cruise varies based on your chosen destination, the cruise line and the cruise length, but we help you find cheap last minute cruises that will be worth it in any case. Creating an account on cruisewatch, you will get the best offers and cruise price drops directly to your email address without missing any bargain ever again. Information about the cruise ship, the departure dates, the itinerary and the price details such as taxes and fees, we leave nothing to chance. So, check your calendar, go through our last minute cruise deals and get ready for your spontaneous vacation. But also if you'd rather plan in advance, you can get the best cruise deals with our price alert which is informing you about price drops and excellent deals for your desires and allow you instant savings.

• Enable Accessibility

• 00800 0310 21 21 1-855-577-9489 1-877-288-3037 1-877-288-3037 1-877-474-2969
• | NCL Travel Blog">11-Reasons to Cruise to Alaska this Summer | NCL Travel Blog
• | Norwegian Cruise Line">14-Day Authentic Alaska - Northbound Cruise Tour | Norwegian Cruise Line
• | Deck Plans | Norwegian Cruise Line">14-Day Authentic Alaska - Southbound Cruise Tour | Deck Plans | Norwegian Cruise Line
• | Norwegian Cruise Line">20-Day Transpacific from Tokyo (Yokohama) & Alaska | Norwegian Cruise Line
• | NCL Travel Blog">11 Reasons to Cruise to Alaska this Summer | NCL Travel Blog
• View All Results
• Preferences
• Latitudes Rewards
• Special Offers
• Personalised Recommendations
• Make reservations before you cruise
• 1 (current)

* Terms & Conditions Package not available on sailings less than 5 days or charter sailings.

• 00800 0310 21 21

CRUISE DEALS & PROMOTIONS

• Sign up to never miss a cruise deal!

LAST MINUTE CRUISE DEALS

Travel bright, travel light., granada, malaga.

ISLE SEE YOU IN GREECE THIS SUMMER

Santorini, greece.

DIP INTO NEW EXPERIENCES

Kirkjufellsfoss waterfall, iceland.

Last Minute Cruise Deals

Freestyle values.

Hundreds Of Holidays. No Expiration Dates. Feel Free.

LOWEST CRUISE FARES

Plan Your Next Cruise With NCL's Lowest Cruise Fares.

CRUISE + FLIGHTS-PACKAGE

Save Time & Money With NCL'S Cruise + Flights Travel Packages.

PAST GUEST OFFER

Get 1 Extra Latitudes Rewards Point Per Night On Select 2024 Sailings.

Cruise Deals by Destination

Africa deals, alaska deals, australia & new zealand deals, bahamas deals, bermuda deals, canada & new england deals, caribbean deals, mediterranean deals, northern europe deals, hawaii deals, mexican riviera deals, pacific coastal deals, panama canal deals, extraordinary journeys deals, south america deals, transatlantic deals, weekend deals.

This New ‘Standby’ Cruise Fare Costs Just $49 Per Day—but Is It Worth It?

By Jessica Puckett

All products featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Would you be willing to wait at a port city with your bags packed, hoping to board a cruise at the last minute, all in order to secure one of the cheapest cruise deals out there? Holland America—with its industry-first standby fare offerings—is betting yes.

The line’s new Standby List Program allows travelers to put their names on a list of prospective passengers to be confirmed for a voyage if there are unsold rooms on the ship. Standby cruisers only pay $49 a day, but they receive as little as two days’ notice to get ready for the trip.

For flexible travelers, the scheme offers the possibility of huge savings. Here’s everything cruisers should know about sailing on standby.

How do the fares work?

To get on the standby list, travelers can select an itinerary on Holland America's list of standby-eligible voyages and call 877-724-5425 to join. (You can also have your travel advisor add you to the standby list on your behalf.)

Once you're on the list, you'll be charged $49 per person per day (not including taxes, fees and port expenses, which can cost several hundred dollars more). If you’re not selected for the cruise, you’ll receive a full refund.

When the week of the sailing arrives, the cruise line will start notifying standby passengers whether they made the cut. Guests are confirmed for their sailings in the order they were added to the standby list, so signing up early counts. Would-be passengers should expect to hear their status between seven to two days before the voyage’s departure.

Travelers who aren’t confirmed within two days of the sailing’s departure receive an immediate refund. Truly spontaneous travelers can choose to cut things even closer with a more nail-biting option: They can opt to remain on the standby list all the way up until 90 minutes before departure to see if there’s a no-show. If that doesn't work out, they’ll still get a full refund.

The deal could offer major savings to group travelers who have a bit of flexibility this summer, as the third and fourth guests in a stateroom can travel nearly for free—they would just be on the hook for taxes and fees. But young families are not eligible for cruising standby, as the fares are only available for travelers ages 21 and older. Since it would be a major gamble to travel long distances for an unconfirmed trip, the standby option makes the most sense for people who live in or near eligible ports like Vancouver , Seattle , San Diego , Fort Lauderdale , Boston , Montreal , or Quebec .

How can travelers take advantage?

In 2024, the bulk of standby fares that Holland America is offering are for Alaskan voyages departing Seattle, Whittier, and Vancouver, as well as New England and Eastern Canada voyages departing from Boston, Montreal, and Quebec City.

There are also a handful of transatlantic sailings departing from Fort Lauderdale, Florida, including an extended six-week sailing in November that meanders through dozens of Mediterranean ports in Italy, Portugal, Spain, Morocco, and Egypt, to name a few. Most of the dates for the standby itineraries stretch from May through September, with a few options in October and November as well.

It all sounds appealing, but there are a few factors travelers should keep in mind. “With this program, you've got to be extremely flexible in all aspects of your trip,” says Tanner Callais, founder of cruise travel advice site Cruzely . “Some of these cruises sail for extended periods of time, including up to 42 days,” which is the duration of that lengthy Mediterranean sailing. “You also don't know what sort of cabin you'll receive,” he says. “If you're someone that has to have a balcony room, then this might not be for you.

The type of cabin could, in fact, be a deal breaker for certain travelers. Holland America says it charges standby guests for an interior stateroom, a space as small as 143 square feet with no windows. But travelers could be assigned any category of room ranging up to a verandah stateroom, which ranges from 228 to 405 square feet with enough outdoor space to fit two deck chairs. However, it’s all based on availability.

“Travelers who want to benefit from a standby fare should keep in mind that once confirmed, Holland America Line assigns their room,” says Rob Clabbers, founder and president of the agency Q Cruise + Travel . “While that might result in savings, it means travelers may end up in the last remaining and likely less preferred location—above a theater or night club [or] all the way forward or aft. While this may work for some, it is definitely not recommended for those who fear seasickness, have mobility issues, would like to be close to travel companions, [or] want to be near or away from elevators,” he says.

Holland America Line also notes that these deals are intended for travelers who live within driving distance of the departure ports. “Booking a last-minute airline ticket could end up being more than the cost of the cruise,” Callais says. “That said, the fares are so low that if you have the flexibility, then it might be one of the best deals you'll ever find. This is especially the case if you're a solo traveler, as the double occupancy fare doesn't apply.”

Travelers will want to run the numbers on each voyage to ensure they’re receiving the best possible deal for enduring the hassle of last-minute arrangements. Some of the sailings do offer incredible value. “However, on other sailings, the savings are not nearly as great,” Clabbers says. “If you or your travel advisor do some research, you may very well find some sailings at fares that are similar or even lower than the $49 per day standby fare—and without the restrictions.”

For instance, it’s possible to book a seven-day Alaska sailing that departs June 9 on Holland America’s website, with prices for an inside room starting at $349 per person, plus $310 in taxes, fees, and port expenses. “You even get a $50 credit to spend on board per room, but the biggest advantage is that you can confirm this several weeks before sailing, so you can fine-tune your travel plans rather than have to wait until the very last minute,” says Clabbers.

Caitlin Morton

CNT Editors

Jessica Puckett

One of the better deals would be the 42-day Mediterranean Cruise leaving from Fort Lauderdale in November. Booking that sailing outright, “you would pay $5,479 plus $435 in taxes, fees, and port expenses per person based on double occupancy for an Inside room,” Clabbers says. But, if you sail the itinerary on standby and get confirmed, “you would pay a total $2,058 per person plus taxes. Obviously that would be a good deal.”

Will other cruise lines start offering standby prices?

You might be wondering why a cruise line would offer fares as low as $49 a day. At the end of the day, more guests on board means ships generate more money. “Obviously, a cruise line wants to sail with every cabin filled to maximize revenue and efficiency of scale,” says Callais. “If a room sails empty, the cruise line is still using the same amount of fuel and paying the crew and captain the same wage.”

The majority of new ships break even at 50% occupancy, while older ships need 80% occupancy to hit that benchmark, according to Tom Baker , president of Cruise Center .

Carnival Corporation, which is Holland America’s parent company, saw an average revenue of $236 per passenger each cruise day in 2023, while its direct expenses per passenger was about $156 each day, according to Callais’ analysis of the company’s earnings report . But whereas most of a line’s expenses are fixed, there’s always more room to increase revenue with more passengers, who are bound to spend more on the ship. “In other words, even if this standby rate is less than the cruise line would make at a normal rate, it's still better to earn a little money from it than zero,” Callais says.

Although Holland America is the only major cruise line currently offering the standby fare, it could catch on at other companies if it brings in enough money. “Like most industries, cruise lines are constantly looking at competitors and seeing what they are offering or doing that might benefit their business,” Callais says. “If it works, it will get picked up by others.”

Regardless, it’s likely that standby offerings will stay limited to certain lines, as well as specific ports and times of year. “If the program trains too many passengers to just wait and cruise standby, then that could actually end up hurting the bottom line,” Callais says.

But for many travelers, planning and looking forward to a trip is half the fun: "Part of the joy of travel is the anticipation of the experience," says Clabbers.

By signing up you agree to our User Agreement (including the class action waiver and arbitration provisions ), our Privacy Policy & Cookie Statement and to receive marketing and account-related emails from Traveller. You can unsubscribe at any time. This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.

Last-Minute All-Inclusive Cruises

H aven’t quite gotten over the winter blues? Throw caution to the wind and embark on a last-minute all-inclusive cruise adventure! Find unbeatable deals and new experiences by taking a trip on the open ocean. Discover delicious cuisine and all-inclusive amenities aboard a luxurious cruise ship. Meet new people or have an unbelievable time with your loved ones. Here’s what you’ll find when searching for last-minute cruises.

The Advantages of Last-Minute All-Inclusive Cruises

1. unbeatable deals.

One of the most enticing aspects of last-minute all-inclusive cruises is the potential for unbeatable deals. As departure dates draw near, cruise lines often reduce prices to fill remaining cabins. This opens up opportunities for savvy travelers to enjoy luxurious voyages at a fraction of the original cost. The spontaneity of last-minute bookings can lead to surprising affordability, making cruising accessible to a wider range of individuals.

2. Flexibility in Itineraries

Last-minute cruises offer a level of flexibility that appeals to those with unpredictable schedules or a desire to explore without a set plan. After all, living on a schedule can be tiresome after a while. With numerous cruise itineraries available, ranging from tropical paradises to historic European cities, spontaneous travelers can choose from a variety of destinations that match their interests.

3. Avoiding Overplanning Stress

Planning a vacation can sometimes be stressful, with detailed itineraries, accommodation arrangements, and sightseeing plans. Last-minute all-inclusive cruises, however, eliminate the need for extensive pre-trip planning. This reduces pressure on travelers trying to save money while also trying to get the most out of their time off.  And for retirees, this makes for a more relaxing experience overall.

Where to Find Last-Minute Cruise Deals

Several cruise lines are known for offering attractive last-minute cruise deals to fill remaining cabins. Keep in mind that availability can vary based on the specific cruise, departure date, and destination. Here are some popular cruise lines that often provide last-minute deals.

Royal Caribbean International

Royal Caribbean frequently offers last-minute cruise deals on a variety of itineraries. Last-minute cruise deals include a three-night trip from Florida to the Bahamas for under $300 or a 13-night cruise from Barcelona for under $500. The all-inclusive cruise features free dining options, free activities, and other amenities.

Carnival Cruise

Carnival is known for its fun and lively atmosphere. It also offers a ton of excellent last-minute cruise deals, including a 4-Day Baja Mexico cruise from Long Beach, California for under $250 and a 3-day getaway from Brisbane, Australia.

Princess Cruises

With a reputation for a more refined experience, Princess Cruises may offer last-minute promotions. Keep an eye on their website or work with travel agencies that specialize in cruise deals. It’s a particularly popular option if you are looking for an Alaskan cruise.

Unbeatable deals and new experiences await aboard a last-minute all-inclusive cruise. Save time and money by booking a trip with any one of the cruises mentioned above. You can also search for deals using travel booking websites like Expedia, Vacations to Go, or Cruises.com, where you’ll find specials throughout the year. Finally, consider booking off-peak season to save even more money. Happy voyages!