cruise for 100 per person

Deal watch: Cruise giant Royal Caribbean is selling fall cruises for under $100

It's not just Carnival Cruise Line touting last-minute deals for fall cruises at eye-popping rates . So is cruise giant Royal Caribbean .

The world's largest cruise line this week is offering three-night sailings to the Bahamas for just $99 — about as low as the line ever offers a three-night cruise.

That's not per night but for the entire sailing.

Royal Caribbean this week also is offering a two-night sailing to the Bahamas for just $79. Longer, four-night sailings to the Bahamas start at just $129 — about $32 a day.

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The deeply discounted sailings, all available on Royal Caribbean's website as of Wednesday, include:

• A two-night Freedom of the Seas sailing from Miami to Perfect Day at CocoCay, Royal Caribbean's private island in the Bahamas, on Dec. 5 starting at $79 — or about $40 a day.
• A three-night Independence of the Seas sailing from Port Canaveral, Florida, to Perfect Day and Nassau in the Bahamas on Dec. 5 starting at $99 — or $33 a day.
• A three-night Liberty of the Seas sailing from Fort Lauderdale's Port Everglades to Perfect Day on Nov. 1 starting at $99 — or $33 a day. Another departure on Nov. 4 starts at $119 — or about $40 a day.
• Three-night Liberty of the Seas sailings from Port Everglades to Perfect Day and Nassau on Dec. 2, Dec. 9 and Dec. 16 starting at $119 — or about $40 a day. Sailings in November start at $139 — about $46 per day.
• A four-night Independence of the Seas sailing from Port Canaveral to Perfect Day and Nassau on Nov. 14 starting at $129 — or about $32 per day. Sailings on Nov. 7, Nov. 28 and Dec. 12 start at $149 — or about $37 a day.

All the deeply discounted fares above only are available for the lowest-category cabins on each of the ships, which all are windowless "interior" cabins. But Royal Caribbean also is offering notably low rates on ocean-view and balcony cabins on the ships, too.

Related: Some cruise fares have dropped as low as $26 a day as lines struggle to fill ships

Ocean-view cabins (that is, cabins with a window) on the three-night Nov. 1 departure of Liberty of the Seas were listed on Royal Caribbean's website Wednesday for $158 — just $59 more than a windowless cabin. Balcony cabins on the sailing were listed for $168. That works out to just $56 a day for a balcony cabin.

All the fares are per-person base rates that include accommodations, meals and entertainment but not port taxes and fees, which range from $101 to $110. Cruise lines typically advertise their fares without port taxes and fees included but add these costs to final bills at the time of checkout.

Related: 6 ways to get a deal on a cruise

As is typical with cruise ship pricing, the per-person fares are "based on double occupancy," which means they are available only to passengers when booking two or more people in a cabin. Customers who want to have a cabin to themselves will pay more.

Passengers who book many of the lowest fares available also will pay extra for things like alcoholic drinks, Wi-Fi and service charges while on the cruises.

Related: 11 extra charges on cruise ships that will drive you nuts — and what to do about them

Still, even with such extra charges, the cost of such cruises is notably low when compared to the rapidly rising cost of staying in a resort or hotel on land. Cruise pricing this year has fallen far behind pricing for lodging on land, with some Wall Street analysts who cover the travel industry saying the differential is now in the 30% to 50% range.

The low rates for fall cruises at Royal Caribbean come as cruise companies struggle more than land resorts to return to normal occupancy levels in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Planning a cruise? Start with these stories:

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• The 8 worst cabin locations on any cruise ship
• A quick guide to the most popular cruise lines
• 21 tips and tricks that will make your cruise go smoothly
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• 12 best cruises for people who never want to grow up
• What to pack for your first cruise

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Prices are per person, based on double occupancy. Single occupancy generally costs 100% more. Prices are subject to change and are not guaranteed until your card has been charged.

We don't set prices-- we just find the best deals and display them for you. While we work hard to keep prices completely accurate, they change quickly based on time and availability. With almost 12,000 cruises tracked, it's not possible to be 100% accurate all of the time. The price you see upon checkout will be your final price.

Prices are displayed in local currencies for convenience, but will be booked in USD.

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Best Cheap Cruises

Planning a cruise this fall? Check out: 18 Cheap Fall Cruises to the Caribbean, Canada, and Beyond

The kids are off to college and you've got time on your hands. Book a cruise or check out one of these fun getaways: 15 Affordable Fall Getaways for Empty Nesters

The sheer number and variety of cruises on the high seas afford plenty of opportunity for bargain hunters. There are dozens of cruise companies in operation worldwide and most offer travelers a choice of ship sizes, amenities, itineraries, and price points. To determine which low-cost cruises are worth your time and money, Cheapism looked at onboard facilities and port locations, and surveyed prices posted by the major cruise lines. We read dozens of expert and passenger reviews to learn which ships live up to their glossy marketing and which fall short. The quality of accommodations, food, entertainment, and shore excursions go a long way toward making a cheap cruise a rousing success.

Our Top Pick

Royal Caribbean Freedom of the Seas Review

Freedom of the Seas is one of Royal Caribbean International's most popular ships, and it's easy to see why. According to Royal Caribbean cruise reviews, Freedom of the Seas caters to all ages with a full menu of entertainment, adventure, and food options, plus onshore excursions. The starting price for an eight-night cruise through the eastern Caribbean is $75.

In comments posted on Expedia , Freedom of the Seas passengers rank the ship high for quality of service and overall experience. The staff garners numerous shout-outs from passengers on travel sites such as Avoya Travel and from experts at Cruise Critic , who commend the staff's hard work, attentiveness, and professionalism. Some passengers were less enamored of their experience, however, and on Yelp they write about subpar dining service, crew members who seem perpetually unhappy, and facilities that fail to sparkle.

The Royal Caribbean cruise line overall earns industry awards every year: the 2015 Global Travelers' Leisure Travel Award for best large cruise ship line, for example, and the "best for families" and "best for entertainment" crowns from Cruise Critic. U.S. News & World Report, which gives Freedom of the Seas an overall 4.5 rating, ranks it second among the company's fleet of 25, and fourth most affordable.

Freedom of the Seas belongs in the line's Freedom Class and carries slightly more than 4,500 passengers and a crew of 1,360. The ship was inaugurated in 2006 and for three years held the title of world's largest cruise ship. Five years later Freedom of the Seas underwent a major overhaul that included a renovated onboard nursery and a giant poolside movie screen. In 2015, new cabins and dining options were added, as well as a 1960s-style lounge. Other onboard attractions include a skating rink, climbing wall, mini golf, surf simulator, 3-D theater, and characters from DreamWorks movies.

Freedom of the Seas regularly sails out of Port Canaveral (near Orlando) and Fort Lauderdale, Florida, for five-, six-, seven-, and eight-night cruises through the western and eastern Caribbean with stops in ports such as Grand Cayman, Belize, Nassau, and CocoCay, a private island reserved for Royal Caribbean passengers. Excursions, such as snorkeling and cultural tours on the mainland, can be reserved online in advance of departure.

Overall, sailing with Royal Caribbean's Freedom of the Seas is a relaxing (or not) getaway at a bargain price.

Norwegian Breakaway Review

The Breakaway, Norwegian Cruise Line's largest ship, offers everything from a two-night "cruise to nowhere" to a seven-night cruise to Bermuda or a 19-night voyage through the Bahamas and southern Caribbean. It sails out of New York City and prices start as low as $71 a person per night.

Norwegian Breakaway reviews by passengers and experts consider this budget-priced cruise ship a good deal. On sites such as Cruiseline.com, vacationers commend the shows and parties, abundance of activities, tasty food, comfortable accommodations, and overall condition of the ship. Experts at Cruise Critic award it 4.5 stars for ample dining options and entertainment and a relaxed vibe that suits passengers regardless of demographic (read: old, young; family, single; group, romantic).

Other travelers, however, are less impressed. The boat seemed too crowded for some, and without reservations for a spot at the spa or a seat at a show, entry often was denied. Notably, the "freestyle" approach to life on a Norwegian ship, which lets vacationers dine at any time and sit at any table they choose, reportedly leads to lines at the most popular dining venues, which irks some reviewers. Assessments of the crew's performance vary, with many reviewers noting attentive and professional service while others gripe about unfriendly and bored staff.

Both the Breakaway and the 14-ship Norwegian fleet have earned industry awards over the years. The vessel was named best new ship by Cruise Critic in 2013 and best for families by Yahoo that same year. Cruise Critic named it tops for entertainment in 2015, and USA Today's Readers' Choice awards dubbed it best for families. The 2014 Global Travelers' Leisure Award went to the entire cruise line.

Norwegian Breakaway's guest capacity hits 3,969 with a crew of 1,651. The company's ships are known for colorful but tasteful décor and a flexible, almost casual, dress code even at the shows and specialty dining venues. Passengers receive a $50 credit for shore excursions in each port and up to 250 minutes of free Wi-Fi. There are five multi-story waterslides, mini golf, Broadway-style shows, a spa, and 29 dining venues.

The Breakaway is appointed with amenities that suit both party-loving first-time cruisers and laid-back seasoned travelers.

Carnival Dream Review

Carnival Cruise Line's Dream claims to have something for everyone, from a comedy club to a dance club, a pedicure spa for teens to flat-screen TVs in all cabins. But Carnival Dream reviews are something of a mixed bag.

Passengers generally are impressed with the selection of activities on board although some suggest that the capacity of 3,646 vacationers strains the vessel's facilities and services. An expert report by Cruise Critic , which assigns the ship 4 stars, notes that public spaces feel crowded and that dining venues often are overwhelmed. The food satisfies a wide swath of passengers, but some reviews snap about slow service and indifferent fare. And while the Dream vibe is upbeat, with many repeat customers and a mostly under-50 crowd, some reviewers at Cruiseline.com write that the staff, which numbers 1,367, often seems glum. Assessments of the ship's physical condition skew positive -- cabins and facilities up to snuff, décor gaudy but not over-the-top -- even as a small minority point to off-putting smells and maintenance shortfalls.

Amenities aboard the Dream include more than a dozen dining spots, a retreat for adults only, a spa, a giant poolside movie screen, a water park, Dr. Seuss-themed characters and activities, a comedy club, and tequila and rum bars.

New Orleans is the Carnival Dream's home port, and the Caribbean its usual destination, with nightly rates starting at $53 a person. An occasional one-way cruise originates in San Juan, Puerto Rico, for just $46 a night, and finishes in New Orleans.

Carnival earned the title of best cruise line for value from Cruise Critic in 2015. Each of the 24 ships in the fleet is slightly different and garners more or less favorable reviews. Industry experts recommend researching the particular ship before choosing a cruise. That said, most earn high marks for value and cleanliness and an overall pleasant experience. Two smaller ships that stand out for budget cruising include the Liberty (mostly out of Galveston, Texas) and Splendor (out of Miami).

Carnival is the largest cruise line in the world, and one of the more accessible value options.

Celebrity Constellation Review

Celebrity Cruises' Constellation appeals to vacationers seeking budget prices -- rates as low as $38 a person for a transatlantic sailing -- and slightly upscale amenities. That's the word from experts at Fodor's Travel as well as contented passengers who posted reviews on a variety of sites. Facilities such as an Internet lounge, high-end performance venues, excellent specialty restaurants, and sophisticated décor give the ship a quality feel. At Cruiseline.com , passengers comment on the Constellation's friendly crew, flavorful meals, and clean and well-maintained condition.

That said, some reviewers grumble about cheesy and uninspired entertainment. And some report that diversions on sea days are particularly lacking. A sprinkling of passengers complain about tasteless food, substandard rooms, dated accoutrements, and pools that can't comfortably hold the crowds, which can swell to 2,170 passengers.

Upgrades to the Constellation in 2013 added more cabins, accommodation categories, and dining options. Reviews indicate that the transformation of the Martini bar into a shaved ice bar with juggling bartenders, for example, has been a hit. Children certainly are welcome aboard, and there are Xbox consoles and clubs to keep youngsters and teens fully occupied, but travelers suggest the Constellation may be better suited for couples seeking an adult getaway.

The Constellation sails through the Caribbean from Fort Lauderdale, Florida, during the cooler months, with stops in ports such as Key West, Puerto Rico, St. Croix (Virgin Islands), and Nassau. It heads to the Mediterranean for the warmer months, and one-way repositioning cruises are available during the shoulder seasons.

Celebrity Cruises maintains a fleet of 10 ships, including one mega-yacht that journeys exclusively to the Galapagos Islands. Celebrity is part of the Royal Caribbean International family and markets its cruises as affordable luxury experiences. It routinely has won Travel Weekly's Readers' Choice Award for best premium cruise line and in 2015 Cruise Critic crowned Celebrity the best line for dining.

This is the ship for frugal vacationers who prefer a quieter, more intimate experience with just a couple of thousand souls rather than the high-energy razzle-dazzle of cruise ships carrying double that number.

MSC Divina Review

Assessments of MSC Cruises' ships, including the Divina, tend toward the ho-hum. Expert review sites such as Fodor's Travel point out that this Italian line has a distinctly European feel that may not thrill American passengers. That said, the company is keen to build its profile in North America. Starting in summer 2016, the Divina will sail exclusively from Miami to various ports in the Caribbean, including St. Maarten, Nassau, Cayman Islands, Jamaica, and Cozumel.

Passenger reviews of the Divina posted at sites such as Cruiseline.com are divided and less than enthusiastic overall. Reviewers talk up the value price (rates start at $54 a person for a seven-night trip) and cleanliness of the ship, but many complain about lackluster food, boring entertainment, mandatory service charges, high-priced drinks, and personnel who don't always accommodate requests. These, along with expert posts, also note a quality gap between the main dining areas and buffet (beware the fish offerings, some say) and the specialty dining facilities that come with an upcharge.

Still, the 3,500-passenger ship has its defenders. A handful asserts that the critiques are wildly overstated. The variety of available activities, such as mini golf, an infinity pool, and an aqua park, as well as the tasteful décor, certainly satisfy a good number of vacationers: 61 percent at Cruise Critic claim to have "loved" their voyage, and the editors award it 4 stars, one above the average passenger rating. U.S. News & World Report ranks the Divina tops in the MSC Cruises fleet of 13.

The Divina was buffed up in 2013 to enhance its appeal to North American passengers. Smoking was restricted to certain areas, a sports bar was added, more entertainment was scheduled, and the crew now speaks only English, as opposed to the five languages that are standard on MSC ships.

Families interested in an inexpensive cruise vacation may be willing to throw overboard the various darts aimed at the Divina. Children up to and including age 11 travel at no cost with two paying adults.

Buying Guide

Cheap cruises guide.

Cruise prices reflect a range of variables, including time of year, itinerary, duration, and onboard accommodations. Nightly rates for a budget-priced excursion generally fall between $50 and $100 a person. A good rule of thumb for frugal travelers: Stick to popular destinations. Cruising to an exotic location such as Antarctica is an all-out luxury affair that easily tops $200 a night. Cheap cruises to the Caribbean, on the other hand, are easy to find because it's an accessible spot and a hotly competitive market. The cheapest cruises tend to be shoulder-season voyages; the lowest rates normally are available from May to mid-June and October to December. (The trade-off may be less-than-ideal weather -- think hurricane season in the Bahamas -- but passengers generally benefit from less crowded destinations.)

Vacationers can find the best deals on so-called mainstream cruise lines, such as Norwegian Cruise Line, Royal Caribbean International, Carnival Cruise Line, Princess Cruises, MSC Cruises, and Costa Cruises. These and other major operators ply the waters with mega- and some mid-size ships, the largest of which carry more than 4,500 passengers and crews exceeding 1,500. Premium and luxury lines, such as (respectively) Holland America Line and Seabourn, generally run smaller ships with less over-the-top glitz, a slower pace, and more personal attention.

Three of our best cruise picks sit in the mainstream segment. Royal Caribbean Cruises' Freedom of the Seas (starting at $75 a night) appeals to a range of ages, and travelers consider the onboard dining options above average. Another top pick, Norwegian Cruise Lines' Breakaway (starting at $71 a night), is a relatively new ship that wins points for clean staterooms and sophisticated entertainment. Carnival Cruise Line's Dream (starting at $53 a night) scores with critics and consumers for activities, cleanliness, and a family-friendly atmosphere. The Constellation (starting at $38 a night), part of the premium Celebrity Cruises line, balances the perks of a megaship and the intimacy of a smaller cruise without charging premium prices. MSC Cruises runs the MSC Divina (starting at $54 a night) exclusively in the Caribbean (starting in 2016), but reviews suggest waving goodbye to this one for hidden costs and unremarkable food and fun.

Cruise Packages

Cheap cruise packages typically include most (if not all) meals and many onboard activities and kids' programs. Be prepared to pay extra for alternative (specialty) restaurants, some coffee and ice cream bars, soft drinks and alcoholic beverages, shore excursions, spa treatments, and gratuities. The luxury lines include more in the basic fare, but even these trips are never completely all-inclusive. For instance, drinks and gratuities may be covered, but spa treatments and shore excursions are not. Posted prices for most lines typically do not include taxes, fees, and port expenses.

Cruise Safety

Safety aboard cruise ships is always a concern. Media reports about outbreaks of norovirus, incidents on Carnival cruise ships (including the Dream), and more recently a fire on a Royal Caribbean ship have hurt bookings. To lure back travelers, cruise lines lowered prices and adopted an industry-wide passenger bill of rights. Carnival put $300 million into extra backup generators and safety systems and began promoting a money-back guarantee (passengers who decide a cruise is not their cup of tea within 24 hours of departure can fly home on the company's dime and receive a 110 percent refund). The U.S. Department of Transportation maintains a portal for updates and resources about cruise safety.

Regardless, plenty of vacationers appreciate the megaship bargains and the vast majority of reviewers consider cruising a happy and carefree experience.

What We Looked For

Budget cruises aim to replicate the ambiance of a resort, albeit one that floats on water. They offer upscale restaurants, buffets, and lounges; daytime and nighttime entertainment for young and old; gyms and pools; and shopping opportunities, of course. Some ships try to make a splash with one high-profile amenity or another, like a jogging track, climbing wall, or aqua show. Regardless which vessel you book, such "features" are standard fare. We focused instead on factors that distinguish the best cheap cruises from the also-rans.

New or Upgraded Ships

Many megasize cruise ships have recently been refurbished and don't lack for amenities. When Royal Caribbean's Freedom of the Seas launched in 2006, it already boasted unique features such as a surf simulator, a rock climbing wall, and an ice skating rink, which have since shown up on other ships in the fleet. The vessel was upgraded in 2011 and refreshed in early 2015; among the most recent improvements are new dining options and cabin furnishings. Celebrity Constellation (affectionately nicknamed "Connie") dates back to 2002 but was refurbished in 2010 and 2013. Cheap cruises are available even on new ships such as Norwegian Breakaway, which was inaugurated in 2013 and offers a jam-packed menu of restaurants, activities, and entertainment.

Location, Location, Location

The more unusual the itinerary and the farther away from home the departure point, the pricier the total cost (including land or air travel to and from the port). Frugal vacationers should focus on cruises relatively close to their residence. Miami, Fort Lauderdale, and Port Canaveral are popular jumping off points for the Caribbean and Bahamas; Royal Caribbean's Freedom of the Seas, Celebrity's Constellation, MSC's Divina sail from Florida. Our top picks include alternatives: New Orleans is home port for the Carnival Dream while Norwegian Cruise Line's Breakaway departs from New York. Cruises on the West Coast, down to Mexico, up to Alaska and Canada, or out to Hawaii depart from Long Beach or Seattle.

Nontraditional Cruises

One-way sailings or "repositioning cruises" occur when a ship is moving from one cruising region to another. The prices per night often sit in the budget zone, but the trips tend to be long -- a week or more -- and the ride is only one way, which means factoring in the extra transportation charges. Repositioning cruises occur at the beginning or end of the warm-weather cruise season (mostly late spring and fall). The Celebrity Constellation, for example, spends the winter cruising the Caribbean but in early April it moves from Fort Lauderdale to Rome, its departure point for summer voyages around Europe and the Arabian Peninsula. The 13-day transatlantic crossing docks on a Portuguese island, at the Rock of Gibraltar, and in Spain for less than $40 a night.

Cruise Ship Reviews

Professional travel writers, magazine editors, and travelers are among the best sources for cruise reviews. Industry publications such as Porthole and travel magazines such as Condé Nast Traveler compile readers' choice awards and editor-curated lists of the best cruises, although many of these lump together entire cruise lines and have little regard for budget. Keep in mind that many cruise lines operate many different ships, so reports about any given cruise line can vary widely, depending on the ship, the crew, and the route.

U.S. News & World Report ranks individual ships based on health inspection scores from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and consumer ratings on Cruiseline.com. Cruise Critic combines editor reviews of each ship with hundreds of member reviews, many from veteran cruisers. We also consulted several review and booking sites including Orbitz, Expedia, CruisesOnly, and Cruise411. On these sites, which basically serve as travel agents and generally sell cruises at a discount, customer reviews are candid about the pros and cons of each ship.

Both the cruise lines and the individual ships we recommend have earned recognition from these sources for one thing or another. Comments we read indicate that travelers care most about accommodations, food, and entertainment, in addition to the general sense of pleasure and well-being that the best budget cruises provide. Reviews also comment on the optional land-based activities at ports of call.

Accommodations

Vacationers' satisfaction with cruise ship accommodations depends a lot on the type of cabin they chose, its size and location, and the associated amenities. Although the least expensive cabins aboard cruise ships are quite small, most passengers know what they're getting into and adjust accordingly. Some, though, are taken aback. One passenger review of the MSC Divina on Cruiseline.com expresses surprise at the cramped quarters and suggests that the European cruise line is out of touch with American expectations.

Still, the rooms pass muster with most travelers. Although minor grousing about dated décor pops up here and there, notably in reviews of the Celebrity Constellation, passengers on the ships discussed here report bedding is quite comfortable and the rooms are clean and well-stocked with towels, shampoo, and the like. There is some griping about noise from the hallway, the rooms next door, or the deck up above, particularly from reviewers who stayed in smaller and less costly cabins.

Passengers who don't plan to spend much time in the room should book the cheapest available, typically in the interior on a lower deck. Cabins on older ships can be as small as 100 square feet but more like 140 to 180 square feet on newer and refurbished vessels; higher fares buy more space. Don't be fooled by the stated dimensions of a balcony room; many cruise lines include that outdoor space when calculating overall square footage.

When possible, look for the ship's deck plan on a site such as CruiseCompete before choosing a cabin. See what is below, above, and next to each; bunking directly under the noisy pool deck or bar, or on the lowest decks where the hum of the ship's propellers may be audible, may not appeal to every frugal traveler. Those who get seasick easily should avoid the highest-level rooms, which sway the most. Experts at Cruise Critic say the optimal arrangement is a cabin with staterooms above and below, like a traditional hotel.

Reviews leave little doubt that cruise food quality varies widely from ship to ship and even within a single ship. In general, buffets tend to rank lower than specialty and fine-dining restaurants, which typically cost extra and may require reservations before passengers even climb aboard. Many reviewers consider these options part of the draw of the ships on our list, although some diners come away disappointed and chafe at the beefy surcharges given irksome flaws in execution (service quality, menu selection, and food preparation). Other customers prefer casual dining of the sort typically found poolside, or at the bar-and-grills common on cruise ships, and seem content with the offerings. For the most part, passengers commend the food, but as with anything so subjective, there is always some carping. An expert reviewer and some passengers aboard the MSC Divina, for example, were particularly disappointed with the spread in the buffet, both in quality and variety, and report rude behavior as hungry diners jockeyed for position at the food tables.

Mainstream cruises offer all manner of onboard entertainment, including shows, musicians, movies, lectures, and kid-specific programs. (Check the options before booking to be sure they match your preferences.) Royal Caribbean ships get a general thumbs-up from Frommer's for innovative, fun, and varied amusements and Norwegian Cruise Line bears the "best nightlife" moniker from Cruise Critics editors.

As with so much about the cruise experience, to each his or her own when it comes to entertainment. Some passengers aboard the Celebrity Constellation thoroughly enjoyed the variety, quantity, and quality of the performances, according to reviews at TripAdvisor , while others grumble about lack of entertainment around the pool on sea days.

Shore Excursions

Many cruises offer passengers the option of joining organized shore excursions at stops along the way -- for a fee, of course. The cruises book these excursions through local guides, so prices and availability vary from ship to ship and season to season. They can add anywhere from $25 to $300 a person to the total cost of a cruise. Reviews highlight one drawback of a megaship such as Royal Caribbean Freedom of the Seas: Although it gets good marks for varied activities and port stops, passengers warn on Cruiseline.com that the process of getting on and off the ship can take hours. Some cruise reviews also report that excursion operators often hustle visitors from stop to stop, allowing less time to explore than expected.

Many cruise lines, including Carnival, let passengers view brochures and book desired excursions in advance. For example, on Caribbean cruise ships and other tropical cruises, you can line up a diving or snorkeling excursion. Passengers may be able to save money by finding out which company is running the shore excursions or similar outings and booking directly. At CruiseCheap.com , consumers can search by ship and cruise date for local side trips and book online before setting sail. Researching your options from home without any sales pressure is a big advantage, but if the excursion has not been coordinated with the cruise line, be absolutely sure to leave sufficient time to return to the ship before its scheduled departure -- the captain won't wait for you.

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Frugal Traveler

How Can You Travel for Less Than $100 a Day, Everything Included? Find a Cruise Deal.

As companies bring their full fleets back online, many ships still have room. That means bargains are being offered outside the winter “wave season,” making some sailings unexpectedly cheap, even in an era of inflation.

By Elaine Glusac

A $50-a-day offer to sail on a Caribbean cruise ship with pools, water slides, restaurants and Broadway-style entertainment says a lot about the turbulence some cruise companies are facing.

But for thrifty travelers, it means deal season — or “wave season” in industry parlance, usually a first-quarter phenomenon — is back. Normally, cruise lines fill their ships during the winter, when they typically offer discounts and generous perks, a pattern disrupted this year by the Omicron variant. Now, many cruise companies have put their trips on sale again relatively late in the year.

“Omicron knocked a lot of business off the books,” said Anthony Hamawy, the president of the travel agency Cruise.com . “Then Ukraine and the situation with the international policy of retesting all returning travelers for Covid affected bookings abroad.”

Though the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recently rescinded the requirement to test travelers flying to the United States from abroad, the damage was already done and the discounts are a patch. In addition, cabin availability grew as cruise lines dropped occupancy limits and returned entire fleets back to service, flooding the market.

“You have thousands of cabins that really in the 11th hour they’re trying to fill,” Mr. Hamawy added.

Some agents note that promotions directed to families are not uncommon on Caribbean cruises in the summer, which is high season for families to cruise, but this year’s sales are bigger and include more regions of the world.

“The Caribbean tends to book closer in than Europe and Alaska,” said Michelle Fee, the founder and chief executive of Cruise Planners , a travel agency based in Coral Springs, Fla. “I think people were just waiting to see and by waiting there are better deals happening.”

Prepandemic, many bookings were made a year or more in advance; now, a few months out is not uncommon.

“More people are booking last minute,” said Colleen McDaniel, the editor of CruiseCritic , a cruise review website. “They want to make sure they’re able to do what they plan to do, knowing that variants can happen, so they’re being careful and not planning too far ahead.”

The world on sale

Most big cruise lines are sweetening their offers with discounts and freebies available through June for cruises this summer and beyond, with many deals running less than $100 a person a day for a vacation that includes lodging, meals and entertainment.

By comparison, the average hotel room in the United States in May ran about $149 a night, according to the hospitality benchmarking firm STR.

Ms. Fee calls the extras “value adds,” which include perks like free airfare, children sailing free, specialty dining at no extra fee, open bars and a percentage off companion fares.

Norwegian Cruise Line ’s current sale demonstrates multitiered incentives with 35 percent off its cruises plus complimentary open bar, discounted shore excursions, free Wi-Fi, free airfare for a second guest and more until June 30. The deals bring a weeklong Mediterranean cruise leaving from Barcelona to $649 a person, or about $97 a day.

Royal Caribbean’s promotion , good through June 30 for cruises on or after July 1, offers 30 percent off and no charge for children 12 and under.

Since most deals end in July, procrastinators must act fast. Through June 30, Celebrity Cruises has companion fares at 60 percent off for North American travelers who book a trip on nearly all itineraries through April 2024. This includes summer trips in Alaska and the Mediterranean. A nine-night sailing in Italy and Montenegro in August starts at $899 a person before any discounts.

Cruise lines would like to see booking windows expand again and some are incentivizing it. Virgin Voyages , which operates in the Caribbean and Mediterranean, is offering 10 percent off bookings made 180 days or more in advance, and five percent off those more than 120 days out.

High-end ships are filling up

Luxury ocean, river and expedition ships, which tend to be much smaller than those run by the mass-market cruise lines, are having less trouble filling space.

“Luxury has been off the charts since Covid,” Ms. Fee said, noting that many are filled with bookings pushed from canceled trips over the past two years. “Those are people that travel and realize if I don’t rebook, I will lose the chance because the ships are smaller.”

Still, there are some immediate deals for the few remaining vacancies. Through June, Uniworld Boutique River Cruises is offering half-off fares on 20 European river itineraries, such as an eight-day sailing on the Rhine from Basel to Amsterdam from $2,999 a person in August, which includes open bar and excursions, after the discount.

“A sale of this caliber is not common for us, but we are constantly monitoring booking trends and listening to our guests,” wrote Ellen Bettridge, the president and chief executive of Uniworld, in an email. “As a result of that, we are seeing shorter booking windows continue to spike for trips in the coming months.”

Selection is narrow on some of the offers. AmaWaterways , another river specialist, is selling select seven-night itineraries running through December from $5,499, including round-trip airfare and airport transfers, which are normally extra; the company says the inclusions represent more than $2,000 in value. The offer, good through June 30, is available in Provence , on the Rhine River and in Holland and Belgium .

Windstar Cruises , which operates ships carrying 350 passengers or fewer, has some European itineraries that include complimentary drinks, Wi-Fi and gratuities, a value of $79 a person each day. Some trips also include a $1,000 airline credit per person. In August, a seven-day circumnavigation of Iceland starts at $$3,599 a person, including perks and the additional flight credit.

Dates on sale from the Greece-based yacht company Variety Cruises , which carries no more than 72 passengers on a ship, includes the July 29 departure of an eight-day sailing from Athens to Mykonos, Santorini and Hydra. The sale, through July 1, offers two-for-one pricing, meaning a cabin for two costs $1,495, or half the normal price.

The select dates on sale with Hurtigruten , the expedition line, include departures in July and August that spend 11 days circumnavigating Iceland — and crossing the Arctic Circle to see the vast seabird colonies on Grimsey Island —from $5,812 a person and up to $1,000 in air credit, through June 29. The promotion covers itineraries in Greenland and Galápagos this summer, and Antarctica in the fall.

‘Rare’ sales in Alaska

If you’ve been pining to get to Alaska affordably, this might be the summer. In the first full-scale cruise season in the state since the pandemic, many ships still have room.

“We’re seeing deals in Alaska, which is a very rare thing, especially in the height of the Alaska season,” Ms. McDaniel said.

Princess Cruises has much of its portfolio on sale through Aug. 31, including Alaska sailings, starting at $399 for seven-day voyages, with many departures through mid-September.

Through June 30, Holland America Line is offering half-off select cruises this and next year, plus $50 a guest to spend onboard and 50 percent off required deposits. The sale covers virtually all regions, including the South Pacific, Antarctica and Alaska, where a seven-day Inside Passage cruise starts at $439 a person.

In a perk that seems to be appreciating daily, some lines are covering the airfare or providing an airfare credit, including Lindblad Expeditions, which will include round-trip airfare on select 2022 departures on their six-day Alaska sailing (from $4,660 a person) or a credit up to $350 a person.

UnCruise Adventures , which operates small ships in Alaska, is pricing its 12-night Inside Passage itinerary at a seven-night rate for $3,345 a person, saving more than $4,300, on three sailings in July and August.

Fall and beyond

Apart from encouraging sailing this summer, many cruise sales aim to get passengers to book for fall.

Princess’ sale, for example, includes fall departures such as a three-day California coastal cruise from $199 a person in September and 10 days in the Caribbean and Central America , including transiting the Panama Canal, from $649 in November.

Norwegian’s sale offers deals in the Caribbean over the winter holidays and into spring, including seven days departing from New Orleans for Mexico, Belize and Honduras for $398 a person.

Abercrombie & Kent , a high-end tour operator, says cancellations account for availability in the next three to nine months on itineraries in places like Italy, the British Isles and the South Pacific that are ordinarily sold out more than a year in advance. In December, a 13-day Antarctica cruise costs about $13,000 with the sale compared to roughly $16,000 normally.

Once those sales expire, future cruises are more expensive, though if low bookings continue you can be sure cruise lines will come out with new deals.

“This is a transitional year,” Mr. Hamawy said, noting 2023 prices are presently five to 10 percent higher than in 2019. “I tell all my family and friends to go now.”

Elaine Glusac writes the Frugal Traveler column. Follow her on Instagram @eglusac .

Follow New York Times Travel on Instagram , Twitter and Facebook . And sign up for our weekly Travel Dispatch newsletter to receive expert tips on traveling smarter and inspiration for your next vacation. Dreaming up a future getaway or just armchair traveling? Check out our 52 Places for a Changed World for 2022.

An earlier version of this article misidentified the travel agency of which Anthony Hamawy is president. It is Cruise.com , not Cruises.com.

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How Much a Cruise Costs in 2024

Wondering how much you’ll spend to take a cruise? We have specific estimates (using actual figures from the cruise lines!) below.

Before we get too far, however, you should know that just like buying a car, you can spend as much — or as little — as you want for your vacation .

For instance, are you happy with the lowest-cost interior cabin… or would you rather spend more for a balcony or a suite?

Or are you the sort of person who can only sail during the summer months (when prices are much higher), or can you sail during the off-season and save hundreds of dollars ?

From room types to when you sail to the cruise line you pick, they all have an impact on what you’ll spend.

That means tracking down the specific cost of a cruise for each person is difficult. But we can give you an idea of what a typical trip will cost based on averages and help you know better what you can plan to spend.

We get into all the details of how much a cruise costs — and exactly where you’ll spend money — below. 

In This Article...

Where You’ll Spend Money on a Cruise

Think that the cost of a cruise is simply the fare that you pay to get on the ship? While that makes up the lion’s share of your spending, there’s a lot more that goes into the cost of your vacation.

Cruise Fare Of course, when most people think of the cost of a cruise, they are thinking mainly of the price of the cruise fare. This fare is what the cruise line charges for you to sail on the ship. Cruise fare includes your cabin, most meals, entertainment on the ship, access to pools, lounges, and more.

What it doesn’t include are the extras like alcoholic drinks, specialty restaurants, shore excursions, gambling and other things bought on board.

What you pay for your fare can vary widely. Factors that go into the price include the type of cabin you choose, length of cruise, when you sail, and even the ship and cruise line you sail.

Short cruises on budget cruise lines can run as little as a few hundred dollars, while long luxury trips can run well into the thousands — and even tens of thousands — of dollars per person.

Onboard Spending Think you’re done spending money after you buy your cruise fare? Think again. Once on the ship there are lots of extras that you will likely want to purchase that add to the cost of your cruise.

Onboard spending casts a wide net. It includes everything from money spent gambling in the casino to alcohol, specialty restaurants, cruise line shore excursions, and even the souvenirs you buy in the gift shop.

Just like with the cruise fare, different people will spend different amounts. We’ve personally been on cruises and spent nothing extra on the ship. Other times we’ve spent hundreds.

If you’re frugal, you can get by with spending little. If you want to let loose and have fun, it will add hundreds (and maybe thousands) to your cruise fare. As a rule of thumb, expect to spend between 30-40% of your cruise fare in onboard spending. That’s around what the cruise companies show as the amount earned in onboard spending in their financial reports.

Gratuities If you’ve never sailed on a cruise before, you might be unsure of exactly what gratuities are and how they work.

These days gratuities are automatically charged to your account; everyone pays them. You can choose to prepay them when you buy your cruise, or have them charged to your onboard spending account and pay the balance at the end of your trip.

Rates vary across cruise lines, but are usually around $15 per person, per day. So a couple traveling on a seven-day cruise will pay about $200 in gratuities.

What do the charges go to? They are shared among the staff, with most going to your cabin steward. Waitstaff also receive a significant portion.  (For more on gratuities, see our complete guide here .)

Getting to the Ship (Transportation, Parking, Hotel) Whether you fly, ride, or drive to the port, you will have some more expenses that you have to consider for your budget.

Getting a ride to the port? Don’t forget to factor in the cost of transportation to get to and from the cruise ship.

Driving to the port? If so, know that most ports charge around $20 per day to park (although some hotels and independent parking lots offer discounted rates).

If you fly in for your cruise, then you need to factor in your airfare. We also suggest anyone flying in to arrive the day before you sail and get a hotel room, just to avoid any delays that might cause you to miss your ship.

Spending in Port Finally, the last part of your budget to consider is what you spend in port. Most of the time, this is actually relatively little as so much time is spent on the ship.

Excursions not booked through the cruise line would be in this section (those booked through the cruise line are onboard spending, mentioned above). Your port spending also includes things you do in port like catching a taxi to a beach, food and drink at a restaurant, or buying souvenirs. 

One Note About Cruising in 2024

Of course the world has changed since the health crisis. Nowhere is that more the case than with cruising. The entire industry was shut down for almost all of 2020 and slowly made its return in 2021. After 2023, we can say that cruising is back with ships sailing at full capacity.

But just like on land, but there are bigger changes that could impact the cost of a cruise going forward.

Longer-Term Pricing During the stop, the major cruise companies took on massive amounts of debt to survive. Now as cruising resumes, they are focused on improving their balance sheets. That has meant higher pricing, if the market allows. Cruise lines have said repeatedly that demand is strong and onboard spending is at considerably higher levels than before the pause.

As well, several cruise lines sold off a number older, smaller ships. In general, older ships offer lower pricing. Along with the removal of older ships, new ships have come onto the market such as Carnival Celebration and Jubilee, as well as Royal Caribbean’s Icon of the Seas.

With more newer ships priced at a premium and a push to shore up balance sheets, longer term pricing seems likely to rise.

Inflation Pressures The biggest economic story of 2022 was inflation, and it didn’t stop at the water’s edge. It’s a worldwide issue that also impact cruise lines. Prices for many things, including services like wi-fi on cruise ships and gratuity charges have increased.

The good news is that following strong price increases since cruising returned, anecdotally it seems that the hikes have calmed for now. That said, don’t be surprised if prices still climb some in the coming year.

Average Total Cost of a Cruise in 2024

So with all these different things to spend money on, how much does it cost to take a cruise?

As we mentioned above, the cost of your specific cruise will vary. Those who want an interior cabin will spend less than those sailing a suite. And people who can sail during the spring or fall will save hundreds versus sailing in the summer.

But we have some estimates below to give you an idea of the cost of taking a cruise.

Cruise Fare ($150-$245 per day) Obviously it’s impossible to give you a specific cost of your cruise fare. There are so many different factors that go into what you’ll pay, including:

• Cruise line
• Specific ship
• Date of cruise
• Trip length 

That means the price you pay will see a wide range . Sailings can be less than $100 per person, per day, into several hundreds of dollars each day.

That said, we can get a good idea of what you’ll spend. All the major cruise lines are public companies that publish annual figures for their revenue and passenger statistics.

From these public reports, we know that the average cost of cruise fare runs from about $150-$245 per person, per day (depending on cruise company). 

For example, in the trailing 12 months (the latest data available publicly), Carnival Corporation — which owns several different lines including Carnival, Princess, Cunard, and others — took in $12.8 billion in ticket revenue, and sailed 86.0 million passenger days. That comes out to $149 per person, per day.

Royal Caribbean Group was slightly higher based on their last 12 months of financial reports, ($175 per person, per day), and Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd. came in at the top of our list ($245 per person, per day).

Of course, those figures are averages across the entire company. Specific cruises can be much lower… or much higher… depending on your specifics. For example, sailing an interior cabin is drastically cheaper than sailing in a balcony room. And cruises departing in January or February are less expensive than sailing at the height of summer.

Still, these figures should give you a good idea of the average cost of a cruise based on what others pay across different cruise companies.

Port Fees and Taxes (~$100-$200 per person)

Port fees and taxes aren’t technically part of your cruise fare, but they are included in what you pay before you board. 

So how much will you pay?

The amount varies depending on your specific route as different ports charge different fees. In our experience, for most cruises expect to spend between $100 and $200 per person on these fees and taxes. Some cruises with fewer ports will be less.

As a rule of thumb, the more ports of call, the higher these fees can be. On some cruises they can definitely be more than $200, but we’ve rarely seen them below $100 — except for some of the shortest trips with only one or two stops. 

Onboard Spending (~$85-$120 per day) By far the biggest expense of taking a cruise is the fare, but onboard spending can be a considerable chunk of change.

So how much will you spend? We dove into detail about spending on a cruise ship before . Cruise lines also break down how much cruise passengers spend in their financial reports. On average across cruise lines, the amount comes out to between $85-120 per person, per day.

Carnival Corporation and Royal Caribbean Group saw an average around $85 per person, per day in the last year. Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd. saw closer to $120 per person each day. 

But you should know that this doesn’t mean you’ll be spending that much each day. With the accounting rules used by the cruise lines, sometimes money spent before you get on the ship is actually classified as “onboard and other” spending .

So if you buy a bundle package that includes your cruise fare and drink package, wi-fi, and other goodies (such as NCL’s “Free at Sea” offer) all in one transaction, some of that is considered onboard spending and some is the cruise fare.

As well, keep in mind that this is simply an average across all cruise passengers and major cruise lines. What you spend could be drastically different. For instance, some people spend little or no money on the ship. Others purchase drink packages, gamble in the casino, and generally live it up the entire trip.

In fact, onboard spending is the area where you have the most control over what you’ll spend . 

Gratuities (~$16-20 per day) Yes, you can adjust the amount of gratuities if your service is particularly poor. In reality, not many people do. Expect to spend about $16-20 per person, per day.

Gratuities may be slightly higher or lower depending on the cruise line. As well, suites have higher gratuity rates compared to lower-tier cabins. So while you might pay $16 per day for a normal cabin, that amount might be $18 per day (or more) if staying in a suite.

Note that this amount doesn’t include gratuities charged for extras like alcoholic beverages on the ship. Those are extra in addition to the automatic gratuities charged to each passenger that go to the waitstaff and room steward.

Getting to the Ship/Parking/Hotel (Varies) The amount that it will cost you to get to the ship, park, and/or a hotel stay will vary based on your needs.

Some people just get dropped off at the port by a friend or family member, so it costs them nothing. Others have to book a cross-country flight and a hotel stay the night before. 

If you drive to the port, plan to spend around $20 per day for parking, depending on the port. Hotels in most port cities can be found for between $150-250 per night. Rides to the port using services like a taxi or Uber/Lyft can vary considerably depending on where you are coming from. Still, you don’t want to forget these considerable expenses in cruising.

Spending in Port (~$50 per port) What you spend in port can vary widely. Remember anything you eat or drink off the ship will come out of pocket and isn’t included in your cruise fare. As well, things like taxis and souvenirs are also extra.

As a rule of thumb, we estimate a budget of about $50 per person, per port of call. For some ports that may be too much. For instance, cruise line private islands often have much of what you need already included. Other ports might include a stop at a restaurant, some souvenir shopping, and buying drinks.

Summing Up the Total Cost of a Cruise

So what’s the grand total?

The chart below lays out the costs of taking a cruise, using the estimated amounts mentioned above. We’ve also laid out the estimates for both a shorter cruise (five days) and the traditional seven-day trip.

Keep in mind that these are just estimates, per person . A couple would expect to double these prices.

As well, remember that what you spend will vary widely based on any number of factors , including your own budgeting for the trip and how much you let loose on your vacation.

Sailing in the off-season like January or February? Then your cruise fare can be considerably less than average. Are you a big spender on the ship? Then your vacation will obviously end up costing more.

But as you can see, on a per-person basis the cost for a 7-day cruise can run around $2,000 when you factor in everything you’ll spend. Shorter cruises will run around $1,500 . 

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Thanks for also talking about the expenses that are counted per head when going on a cruise tour. I plan to look for a good cruise tour ticket soon because I’m thinking about finding a good way to unwind with my family. Going on a long trip might be a good idea.

Please inform if there is any cruise ship between MUMBAI, India and Dubai between december2023 and February 2024

I am a widower. It is really comforting to know there are ways for me to enjoy travelling by myself without having to pay for two!!! So nice to know I can travel again without going bankrupt!!!

I need information about cruise from South Africa to Mozambique for five days

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Get ready to see the world in a whole new light — introducing the Ultimate World Cruise onboard Serenade of the Seas®. You can spend 274 nights bonding with like-minded explorers over global discoveries across all seven continents. Or pick a corner of the globe and explore every inch of it on one of four Ultimate World Cruise℠ segments — each an immersive voyage of 60+ nights. Connect with countless distinct cultures, soak up the most spectacular landscapes on Earth, and marvel at World Wonders that showcase mankind’s boundless imagination.

Or call your local travel advisor . For more information, call the Ultimate World Cruise Contact Line at 800-423-2100.

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Visit 150+ destinations and 8 World Wonders, across 7 continents and 60+ countries. The Ultimate World Cruise features four distinct segments that traverse the globe in one incredible journey.

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Venture across Three Continents

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Arica, Chile

Your once-in-a-lifetime journey begins December 2023, embarking from in Miami on the first segment of the Ultimate World Cruise℠ — the Ultimate Americas Cruise. Go from postcard-perfect Caribbean shores—including the ABC islands —to viewing abundant wildlife like sea lions, penguins and whales roaming glacier-studded Antarctica as you round Cape Horn. Along the way, discover World Wonders in South America, including man-made marvels and extraordinary natural phenomena.

Take in the largest Art Deco sculpture in the world, Christ the Redeemer in Rio de Janeiro. Behold the largest waterfall system on the planet, Iguazú Falls near Buenos Aires. And explore Machu Picchu, one of the most iconic symbols of Peru’s ancient Inca heritage. Then sail up to the Yucatàn Peninsula to discover hidden coves and dramatic rock formations along Land’s End in Cabo San Lucas before exploring Ensenada.

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Taj Mahal, India

Venture miles from ordinary in Australia and Asia on this leg of the Ultimate World Cruise SM . Explore Hawaii and discover the crystal-clear waters of Mo’orea and Tahiti in unspoiled French Polynesia. Set out for Australia’s Great Barrier Reef — the only living thing on the planet that’s visible from space. Trek from pristine natural beauty in Bali to one of the most iconic man-made World Wonders, the Great Wall of China. And discover the unparalleled culture and modern architecture of Tokyo, then take in one of the most breathtaking sights in the world — The Taj Mahal.

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The final leg of the Ultimate World Cruise is an immersive cultural exploration starting in the Med heading north. Discover Barcelona’s brilliant architecture, including Gaudi’s Sagrada Família. Savor flavors across continents — like a dinner of tagine and mint tea in Morocco.

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Pre-cruise Hotel & Gala

New World Wonders Shore Excursion*

Deluxe Beverage Package

Wash & Fold Laundry Service

VOOM Surf & Stream

A World Wandering Fleet Favorite

Designed with acres of glass offering panoramic vistas of sea, sky and land, Serenade of the Seas® is the perfect ship for scenery-scoping. Take in captivating views of Norway’s majestic fjords, gaze at glaciers in Antarctica, and soak up the sun and the sights while cruising through French Polynesia. In between adventures onshore, you can unwind poolside or tee off on the mini golf green. Settle in for dazzling entertainment or dance until dawn beneath the stars. And with top-notch restaurants onboard, every meal turns into a global taste-tour that’s as immersive as your Ultimate World Cruise.

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Cruise Details & Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Ultimate World Cruise?

The Ultimate World Cruise is a never-before-offered Royal Caribbean adventure that takes you on a 274-night journey around the world from December 10, 2023 – September 10, 2024. The adventure begins and ends in Miami, Florida, visiting all 7 continents, 65 countries, 150 ports of call, with 16 overnights and 8 World Wonders. More than 40 of the ports you’ll visit are either rarely available on our other itineraries or brand new to Royal Caribbean, so get ready for the exploration of a lifetime. Book The Ultimate World Cruise early to ensure the best accommodation throughout the entire voyage.

What is the starting price for the Ultimate World Cruise and its 4 individual segments?

Ultimate World Cruise Starting Price

Considering all that’s included in your 274-night Ultimate World Cruise fare, you’ll enjoy an incredible value. No matter which stateroom you choose, your fare includes Ultimate World Cruise complimentary amenities like business class airfare, pre-cruise hotel and gala, Deluxe Beverage Package, gratuities, VOOM internet package, wash and fold laundry service, and more.

*Taxes, fees, and port expenses of $4,667 USD per person are additional and are subject to change at any time. All starting prices listed are per person, in USD, cruise only, based on double occupancy and are subject to change at any time.

Ultimate World Cruise Segments Starting Price

Considering all that’s included in your Ultimate Cruise segment fare, you’ll enjoy an incredible value. No matter which stateroom you choose, your fare includes Ultimate Cruise segment complimentary amenities like Deluxe Beverage Package, gratuities, VOOM internet package, and wash and fold laundry service.

*Taxes, fees, and port expenses are additional and are subject to change at any time. All starting prices listed are per person, in USD, cruise only, based on double occupancy and are subject to change at any time.

What are the 8 World Wonders the Ultimate World Cruise and the four Ultimate Cruise segments will visit, and on what dates?

Ultimate Americas Cruise: December 10, 2023 – February 11, 2024

Chichen Itza: via Cozumel Dec 13, 2023

Christ the Redeemer: via Rio de Janeiro Dec 31, 2023

Iguazu Falls: via Buenos Aires Jan 5, 2024

Machu Picchu: via Lima Jan 29-30, 2024

Ultimate Asia Pacific Cruise: February 11, 2024 – May 9, 2024

Great Barrier Reef: via Airlie Beach and Cairns March 13-14, 2024

Great Wall of China: via Beijing April 7-8, 2024

Taj Mahal: via Cochin May 1, 2024

Ultimate Africa & Med Cruise: May 9, 2024 – July 10, 2024

Colosseum: via Rome July 1, 2024

Ultimate Europe & Beyond Cruise: July 10, 2024 – September 10, 2024

There are no World Wonders visited during this Ultimate Cruise segment.

What benefits are included when booking the Ultimate World Cruise or one of the four Ultimate Cruise segments?

Guests who join us for the entire Ultimate World Cruise will receive the following inclusions:

Embarkation Amenities

Round-trip business class airfare

Pre-cruise hotel and gala

Premium transfers between airport, hotel and ship

Onboard Amenities

Deluxe Beverage Package for entire voyage

VOOM Wi-Fi internet for entire voyage

Gratuities for entire voyage

Wash and fold laundry service

Our Crown & Anchor Society guests who hold Platinum status and above will also receive the exclusive benefit of included excursions to the 7 New World Wonders.

Guests who join us for one of the four Ultimate Cruise segments will receive the following inclusions:

Deluxe Beverage Package for entire segment

VOOM Wi-Fi for entire segment

Gratuities for entire segment

Wash and fold laundry service for entire segment

Will I receive the same stateroom for the entire duration of my Ultimate World Cruise or Ultimate Cruise segment?

Our Ultimate World Cruise team will ensure that you get the same stateroom for the entirety of the cruise when purchased within the exclusive booking window through November 2021. If you are purchasing your Ultimate World Cruise after the Ultimate Cruise segments have opened for sale, our team will work with you to make every effort to secure the same stateroom for your entire time onboard, based on the remaining available inventory.

What is the payment schedule for the Ultimate World Cruise and the four Ultimate Cruise segments?

To reserve a stateroom on the Ultimate World Cruise or one of the four Ultimate Cruise segments a non-refundable deposit is required. Final payment must be received by Royal Caribbean 180 days prior to cruise departure. For bookings created within 180 days prior to cruise departure, final payment must be received within 48 hours of booking.

How long do I have to place my deposit for the Ultimate World Cruise or one of the four Ultimate Cruise segments?

If outside of final payment, our Ultimate World Cruise and Ultimate Cruise segment guests are able to place a two-week hold to lock in their preferred stateroom and price before deposit is required. Your deposit must be placed within the two-week offer period to secure your selected stateroom.

Are there travel insurance options available on the Ultimate World Cruise or the four Ultimate Cruise segments?

There are travel insurance options available to guests who meet certain qualifications. For more information, please call 800-423-2100 or contact your Travel Advisor.

Why are the Ultimate World Cruise and the four Ultimate Cruise segments only offered as nonrefundable?

Our Ultimate World Cruise and the four Ultimate Cruise segments are a unique adventure that has never before been offered by Royal Caribbean and we want to ensure that our guests who are committed to sharing this experience with us receive priority placement. To preserve this unique experience, all sailings onboard Serenade of the Seas from December 10, 2023 – September 10, 2024, will be offered as exclusively nonrefundable.

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How much does a cruise cost in 2024.

Use this guide to learn more about cruise pricing and how to figure out the total cost of a cruise.

How Much Does a Cruise Cost?

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With the rising cost of everything, cruise fares – some even as low as $27 per person per night based on double occupancy – seem like an incredible bargain. And they certainly can be, but the fares you see advertised online often don't include extras like taxes, fees, port expenses, gratuities, shore excursions, specialty dining, alcoholic beverages, specialty coffees, room service fees and more.

Cruise pricing can be confusing with so many variables. Unless you're sailing with a smaller luxury line that is all-inclusive , your bill on the day of disembarkation may be unexpected or even shocking. Small things like buying bottled water or renting noodles for floating in the ocean at a cruise line's private island can add up quickly. To help you plan better for a cruise vacation , U.S. News has broken down some of the costs and add-ons you need to take into consideration before booking your next getaway on the high seas.

Find your perfect cruise

How much does a one-week cruise cost?

A cruise can cost anywhere from about $109 per person in an interior cabin for a four-night Bahamas cruise up to $101,199 per person for an entry-level suite on a 168-night world cruise – and anywhere in between. Cruise fares vary based on itinerary, number of nights, cabin type, amenities and cruise line. Here are a few examples of base cruise cost ranges on larger cruise lines for various regions:

• A seven-night Caribbean cruise in November ranges from approximately $270 to $2,600 per person.
• A seven-night Alaska cruise in May ranges from approximately $250 to $1,700 per person.
• A seven-night Mediterranean cruise in June ranges from approximately $620 to $2,300 per person.
• A seven-night Mexico cruise on the Pacific Coast in January ranges from approximately $470 to $700 per person.
• A seven-night Canada and New England cruise in October ranges from approximately $490 to $1,100 per person.

What's included in the base fare with a larger cruise line?

Mass market cruise lines such as Royal Caribbean International , Norwegian Cruise Line , MSC Cruises and Carnival Cruise Line – and more upscale lines like Celebrity Cruises , Holland America Line , Cunard Line , Disney Cruise Line and Princess Cruises – advertise "starting from" base fares, which are for inside cabins. These are the least expensive staterooms on the ship, and they do not have windows. Staying in these accommodations still gives you access to all the complimentary dining venues and several types of nonalcoholic beverages (such as nonbottled water, iced tea, juices, hot coffee and tea), as well as the ship's pools, gym facilities, kids clubs and onboard entertainment.

If you want a room with a view – or a larger stateroom – consider booking an ocean view room with a window, or a cabin with a balcony or veranda. With these rooms, you'll have access to all the ship's included amenities and typically more spacious accommodations for the week. Of course, this option will come at a higher price point.

No matter which room category you choose, port expenses, taxes and fees are not included in the base fares, and they're automatically added to the cost of your cruise. The amount of these charges will depend on the length of your cruise and where you're sailing. Gratuities for the staff and crew are also additional.

Ready to plan a cruise? Find the best value sailings on  GoToSea , a service of U.S. News.

What if you want more amenities and perks?

For more perks, you can splurge on a suite or a higher room category. With Celebrity's Concierge Class, for example, you'll be treated to amenities such as a welcome lunch, a complimentary bottle of sparkling wine, personalized concierge service, an exclusive destination seminar, pillow selection upon request, laundry service and more.

With Disney Cruise Line's Concierge Staterooms and Suites, guests have a dedicated concierge agent offering personalized assistance for pre-arrival planning for port adventures, dining reservations, other onboard activities and special requests. You'll also get priority check-in and boarding, a private welcome reception, free Basic Surf Wi-Fi, access to a private lounge with complimentary food and beverages (alcoholic and nonalcoholic) served throughout the day, and other perks.

You may opt to stay within an exclusive area of the ship, such as the MSC Yacht Club, The Haven by Norwegian or Celebrity's The Retreat. These high-end private retreats offer a mostly all-inclusive experience with additional features, while still including access to all the entertainment, dining venues and more on board. The accommodations can cost hundreds more dollars per day, but you'll have an experience similar to sailing on a small luxury vessel.

For example, the MSC Yacht Club offers an intimate all-inclusive space within its larger ships. The private area is accessible with a key card and features luxurious suites, a dedicated concierge, 24-hour butler service, a private restaurant and lounge, a secluded pool deck, priority reservations for specialty dining, VIP seating for entertainment, and other amenities. There are also additional dining and snack options throughout the day at the pool and lounge.

You'll find similar amenities in Norwegian's and Celebrity's private retreats, including priority boarding and disembarkation, exclusive sun deck areas, and priority access when boarding tenders for going ashore.

Guests of MSC's Yacht Club receive the line's Premium Extra Beverage Package, which covers premium liquors, fine wines and Champagne in the Yacht Club and at most other venues on the ship. Accommodations in The Retreat on Celebrity also include premium beverages throughout the ship. If you're staying in The Haven by Norwegian, a beverage package is not covered in the pricing, but Norwegian frequently advertises its "Free at Sea" package, which includes free unlimited bar, free specialty dining, complimentary Wi-Fi, discounts on excursions and other perks.

What factors determine pricing?

Base pricing and the additional components vary greatly among the cruise lines, so you'll need to determine what your budget is for the trip – and what you can and can't live without when it comes to accommodations and amenities. Travelers may also find that one cruise line has a deal or promotion with reduced pricing that covers airfare, specialty dining, a beverage package, free Wi-Fi or other perks in the advertised rate (such as the Norwegian package mentioned above), while another line isn't running any specials for a similar itinerary.

Voyages on older cruise ships tend to be less expensive, so if you're on a tight budget, consider a ship with fewer bells and whistles. If you're sailing on a short itinerary in the Bahamas and plan to lounge by the pool or on the beach all day, you may not be concerned about having high-tech onboard amenities, martini bars and several specialty restaurants.

Save the money to splurge on more expensive fares when you're planning to sail on longer voyages on larger and newer ships . You'll want several days at sea to enjoy the onboard amenities on some vessels, such as a three-level racetrack and a 10-story-tall slide on Norwegian Viva . It would take a full week (or more) to explore all the entertainment options aboard Royal Caribbean International's newest ship, Icon of the Seas – or all the new entertainment offerings and attractions on Princess Cruises' latest addition to its fleet: Sun Princess.

Another significant factor to consider is the time of year you want to travel. Better deals are available in the offseason, but the offseason varies depending on what part of the world you're traveling to. For example, May is a great time to find a deal in the Caribbean. The offseason – or shoulder season – in that market typically runs from May to November. However, keep in mind this period overlaps with hurricane season .

You also may be able to find last-minute deals in many other destinations if you're flexible. Working with a travel agent is an excellent way to learn of last-minute specials and cruise deals that offer add-ons like beverage packages, specialty dining inclusions, shore excursions and other perks. You can also check out the online specials that change frequently.

Solo travelers may pay more

If you're traveling alone, you may also need to factor in a single supplement, which can add up to as much as 100% of the cruise fare. To save money, bring a friend so you can access the lower double occupancy fare or consider lines that feature rooms for solo travelers; select Royal Caribbean, Norwegian and Celebrity ships offer solo staterooms, as do other cruise lines. Check out our guide to the best solo cruises with no supplement fare .

These smaller accommodations – typically ranging from around 100 to more than 200 square feet in size – are priced and designed for solo travelers. Key card access to Norwegian's Studio Lounge is included with the line's solo cabins and offers a place to relax and mix and mingle with other cruisers. Other lines that offer solo cabins include Holland America, MSC, Cunard and Virgin Voyages . While the price may not be as inexpensive as the double occupancy fare when traveling with someone else, these accommodations offer some savings over a typical solo fare.

Some lines often feature special deals on select sailings where the single supplement is waived or reduced. A knowledgeable travel agent specializing in cruises can assist in finding the best offers for solo travelers.

'Kids cruise free' promotions can help families save

If you're traveling with kids, many cruise lines – such as Holland America, MSC, Norwegian, Royal Caribbean, Disney and Princess – offer "kids sail free" promotions periodically throughout the year. You can also find discounted fares for children on select sailings.

Regent Seven Seas Cruises has fares as low as $999 for children 17 and younger on a variety of select voyages. Regent's regular fares typically start at around $3,600 per person for a seven-night cruise, so this is a significant savings. This fare also includes unlimited complimentary shore excursions and all the benefits and perks of sailing with an all-inclusive luxury cruise line. Regent even has a current promotion where kids sail free on a selection of seven- to 20-night itineraries in Europe and the U.K.

Food and beverages are another expense to consider

Once you determine your total cruise fare with the taxes, fees, port charges and gratuities, you'll need to budget for the additional expenses you'll have on the ship – and these extras can add up quickly. Meals at specialty dining venues, alcoholic drinks and other beverages may not be covered in the basic cruise fare. You'll also have to pay for room service on many ships.

You can purchase specialty dining, beverage and Wi-Fi packages before or during your cruise. These packages offer savings over purchasing everything individually – and it's best to buy them once you book your cruise, as they're typically cheaper to purchase before you board the ship.

For an example of the savings with a food package, Royal Caribbean offers up to a 40% discount with a dining package. This package includes reduced pricing for children ages 6 to 12, while kids 5 and younger eat for free. The cruise line's unlimited dining package also offers discounts on bottles of wine.

In addition to specialty dining venues that charge a flat fee – usually between $30 and $50 – there are also restaurants that charge as much as $135 or more for dinner, such as the adult venues on Disney Cruise Line's ships. Other restaurants feature a la carte menus with sushi, bar food and even steakhouses that price out individual courses. Some of these venues may not include gratuities, so that's another add-on. If you decide to dine at any of these spots – and they're not included in your package – you'll have to budget for them in the total cruise price.

Enticing dessert items in the gelato and ice cream shops on some ships also come with a price, including Coco's and Dolce Gelato on Norwegian or MSC's Venchi Gelati and Chocolate.

There are endless options when considering beverage packages, too, so you need choose what fits best with your interests and budget. Some of the package options are only for nonalcoholic drinks like fountain sodas, sparkling waters and coffees, while premium or deluxe beverage packages cover beer, wine and cocktails, so they are more expensive.

Depending on the cruise line, most premium packages will usually cover drinks up to $15, but many craft cocktails on cruise ships can be quite expensive, costing much more, especially if you request a specific brand for the liquor. If you have the premium package and want to splurge on the fancy beverage, you'll have to pay the difference.

It's important to know that there are a few select venues and bars on some ships that do not accept a beverage package, so you'll have to pay extra for drinks at those places. For example, MSC's ships have several signature venues that do not accept drink packages, such as Hola! Tacos & Cantina, Lavazza coffee shops and Venchi 1878.

Norwegian offers a package that covers top-shelf beverages and select bottles of wine and Champagne, Starbucks coffee, bottled water, soda, specialty drinks and other beverages. You'll need to budget around $138 per person per day for this option – and an additional 20% gratuity. This type of package can add up to quite a bit of money on a seven-day cruise or longer. For more information, consult our guide on the drink package options for major cruise lines .

Bundle pricing

For additional savings, look into bundle pricing that includes specialty dining, Wi-Fi, photos and more. Purchasing them together may be more cost-effective. For example, Holland America offers the "Have It All" package, which encompasses a $100 shore excursion credit, the Signature Beverage Package (including the service charge), one evening of specialty dining and the Surf Wi-Fi package for a six- to nine-day cruise. If you're sailing for 10 to 20 days or even longer, the benefits increase. The line estimates savings of 50% when you purchase this bundle.

While these packages may not always work out in your favor, you'll at least know what your dining, imbibing, excursions, Wi-Fi and even additional activities on the cruise will cost.

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Additional costs on a cruise ship

Cruisers will also incur additional fees from excursions, fitness classes, spa treatments, access to thermal spa rooms, babysitting services, ship tours, wine tastings, cocktail demonstrations, cooking classes, laundry services, and some entertainment venues and activities on the ship. Examples include Norwegian's racetrack, Viva Speedway; high-tech attractions like the Robotron thrill ride and the XD cinema on MSC Seascape ; and Carnival's first roller coaster at sea, BOLT.

See some of the more popular added costs you'll want to consider below.

Wi-Fi access

If you need Wi-Fi during the cruise, that's another cost to factor into the total price. Here are two examples of pricing for internet plans for two cruise lines.

Carnival offers three options for Wi-Fi, using Starlink. The basic Social Wi-Fi Plan gives you access to certain social media channels like Facebook Messenger, Instagram, Twitter, WhatsApp and more, starting at about $15 per person per day. The cost increases to roughly $20 per person per day with the Value Wi-Fi Plan. This option gives you access to your email and to sites for weather, news, finance and more. It does not support Skype or music and video streaming services like Spotify and Netflix during your cruise.

The last option, Carnival's Premium Wi-Fi Plan, starts at around $19 per person per day and offers speeds up to three times faster than the Value plan. With this plan you can make Zoom calls and use Skype. For all three of these plans, you can save 15% off the total price if you book in advance of your trip.

Celebrity also uses Starlink. The line's "All Included" fare includes basic internet and a classic drink package, which the line says can save you potentially hundreds of dollars. If you don't book that fare, Wi-Fi plans range from around $20 per day for basic service to premium Wi-Fi at $35 per day.

• Shore excursions

If you're traveling to far-flung or new destinations, you'll want to book shore excursions. Cruise lines recommend that you book excursions directly with them rather than hiring an independent tour company or operator, but it can be more expensive to book tours through the cruise line.

However, if you experienced a delay on an independent tour and couldn't get back to the ship on time, there's a chance you could get left behind if you're not on a ship-sponsored tour. If you decide to go with a private tour guide, be sure to book an excursion that will allow you to arrive back at the ship with plenty of time to spare before the vessel departs for the next destination. Most tour operators in busy cruise ports work with the cruise ship schedules all the time, so you should be fine with a reputable independent guide.

Some trips last an entire day or are once-in-a-lifetime adventures like dog-sledding on a glacier in Alaska or taking a helicopter ride over the active volcanoes and waterfalls in Iceland. These types of excursions can be costly, ranging anywhere from hundreds to even thousands of dollars. If these types of experiences are not in your budget, look for historic walking or panoramic driving tours. These activities are shorter in duration and typically the least expensive tours available on the cruise. Many of these types of tours will cost less than $100. And, of course, there are always other options available that range between the lower and higher price range of excursions.

If your ship is docked directly in the town or city, then you'll be able to explore off the ship on your own for free. Some cruise lines also offer complimentary shuttle buses into town or a round-trip ride for a nominal fee if it's not within walking distance of the ship. That's another less expensive option for you to sightsee, shop or grab lunch in town.

Transportation

Transportation is another expense that's often overlooked in the total cost of a cruise. Consider if you'll be driving or flying to the cruise port. If you're driving, you'll have to pay for gas and parking at the port – and maybe a hotel the night before the cruise, depending on when you arrive and when your ship is scheduled to set sail. Don't forget the meals or beverages you'll purchase on the way.

If you're flying to the port, especially on a long-distance flight, it's best to come in a day early. In that case, you'll also have to pay for a hotel, transfers from the airport to the hotel and then a transfer (private hire, Uber or cab) to the ship's terminal. There will also be meals to budget for while you're in town before the cruise and a ride back to the airport after the cruise.

Souvenirs or forgotten items

Don't forget to account for purchases on the ship. Items that you forgot to bring from home will be more expensive on board. It's also easy to run up the bill when buying souvenirs for yourself or the kids. It's a good idea to periodically check your bill online or with guest services to see the current balance. You can keep a running tab of what you've billed to your stateroom – and also make sure that the charges are correct.

Cruise pricing checklist

To sum it up, here's a checklist of major items that will help you to compare costs across cruise lines and tally up the total cost of a cruise:

• Base cruise price
• Taxes, fees, gratuities and port expenses
• Specialty dining
• Food and beverage packages
• Optional activities (such as spa treatments or extra-fee entertainment on the ship)
• Miscellaneous expenses (such as meals and beverages ashore)
• Air or ground travel to the port
• Hotel prior to embarking

If you don't want to budget for all the individual expenses related to a cruise – and you don't need the over-the-top entertainment of a larger cruise ship – consider booking a mostly all-inclusive or fully all-inclusive cruise with a luxury cruise line . These cruise lines include almost everything in your cruise fare.

Mostly all-inclusive cruises

One option for a mostly all-inclusive cruise is Viking Ocean Cruises . The line's 12 all-veranda ocean-going vessels accommodate between 930 to 998 guests based on double occupancy – and all of Viking's ships feature the same categories of staterooms and suites, dining, lounges, and entertainment venues across the fleet. The ships offer an immersive cultural curriculum on board with regional dishes, destination performances and enrichment lectures.

Viking's fares include veranda accommodations, port taxes and fees, free Wi-Fi, access to the spa and fitness center, 24-hour room service, ground transportation (if you book airfare with Viking), and one complimentary excursion in each port. You'll also have alternative dining options at no extra charge, plus free beer, wine and soft drinks with lunch and dinner on board the ship. Specialty coffees, teas and bottled water are available 24 hours a day at no extra charge.

If you like to have an aperitif before your evening meal or an after-dinner cocktail, those beverages will be at an additional cost. You'll also need to budget for any optional shore excursions that are not included in the fare.

Keep in mind that Viking is an adults-only cruise line , so children younger than 18 are not permitted.

All-inclusive cruises

Regent Seven Seas, Silversea Cruises and Seabourn Cruise Line boast all-inclusive luxury experiences with shipwide amenities such as ocean-facing suites, butlers, premium spirits, fully stocked in-suite bars, no tipping and complimentary dining at world-class restaurants.

Additional perks with Regent Seven Seas include complimentary unlimited shore excursions, free two- or three-night land programs, a free one-night hotel stay before the cruise departure, transfers from the airport to the ship, and business class or economy airfare (depending on the destination).

Silversea offers door-to-door arrangements where everything is handled by the cruise line. You can also opt for a port-to-port all-inclusive rate if you prefer to make your own travel arrangements. If you're on one of the cruise line's expedition cruises, fares will include a pre- or post-cruise hotel stay. All door-to-door and port-to-port Silversea fares cover a selection of complimentary shore excursions in each port.

If you're interested in an even smaller ship – and are sailing to the Caribbean or Mediterranean – SeaDream Yacht Club features an intimate luxury experience on its two 56-stateroom yachts. The fares include top-notch cuisine, an open bar, gratuities, complimentary daily yoga, access to water sports and movies under the stars.

How much does a luxury cruise cost for two?

If you want to go on a mostly adults-only luxury ship, what can you expect to pay for two people? This will depend on the ship, where you want to sail and for how long – and what amenities are included in the fare.

For a seven-night cruise in the Caribbean in December 2024 round-trip from Miami with Regent Seven Seas, an all-inclusive cruise fare with suite accommodations starts at $7,398 ($3,699 per person). There are additional perks and savings available, depending on the level of accommodations you book and if you combine this cruise with another voyage. You can also check with a travel agent specializing in cruises to see if they have access to other promotions.

For a Silversea cruise in December 2025 that sails round-trip from Bridgetown, Barbados, the all-inclusive port-to-port cruise fare starts at $9,800 for two people ($4,900 per person) in suite accommodations. Contact a travel agent before booking to see if they can offer upgrades or additional amenities.

While the price tag may seem high, compare the total cost with the base fare on a larger cruise ship and then add in all the extras.

See the top cruises on  GoToSea .

The bottom line

The average cost of a cruise is all over the map – and there are many variables to consider. Hiring a cruise specialist to navigate the rough waters may be your best option. Cruise specialists are also privy to special deals and incentives that you may not be able to access on your own. Travel agents can also advise you of promotions that may include free specialty dining, beverage packages, complimentary Wi-Fi, shore excursions, discounts on solo and family travel, and more. This approach will save you the hassle of searching online or calling the individual cruise companies to check on what specials are available.

If you'd rather have one price with everything included so there's little room for surprises at the end of the trip, consider a mostly or fully all-inclusive cruise fare. If you don't need waterslides for the kids, big Broadway shows and high-tech entertainment, a cruise on a small luxury line may suit you well.

When doing the math and comparing the costs, you might be surprised how similar in price cruising with a larger mass market cruise line and a smaller luxury line can be. In the end, your decision will come down to your personal preferences and what you value most for your cruise vacation.

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, expedition vessels and traditional masted sailing ships. Cruising is one of her favorite ways to travel and she hopes to book an extended cruise to see the rest of the world someday soon. She covers the travel and culinary industries for major publications, including U.S. News & World Report.

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This Gorgeous New 100-passenger Cruise Ship Is Like a Superyacht — but Affordable

In the eastern Mediterranean, one frequent cruiser discovers that, sometimes, the superyacht life can be surprisingly accessible.

Marco Argüello

Lounging on a daybed beside the dreamy infinity pool on the new Emerald Azzurra, avowed non-cruiser Mel Jennings was having a pinch-me moment. Not only was she at sea, on a sleek ship, off the coast of Egypt, but she was loving the low-key vibe.

“You hear ‘superyacht’ and you think wealthy people flaunting designer clothes,” she told me as we both soaked in the scene. “Most people here are down to earth — and have a sense of humor.”

That’s exactly the point. The 100-passenger Emerald Azzurra might best be described as a superyacht for the rest of us. The 361-foot vessel is built for warm-weather sailings in the Mediterranean, as well as the Adriatic and the Red Sea. But what really sets it apart are inclusive fares that start at less than $600 per person per day. It’s one of a kind in the world of luxury cruising, where prices are typically double or even triple that — at least until the planned summer launch of a nearly identical yacht, Emerald Sakara, which will sail in the Mediterranean and Caribbean.

I got a firsthand look at the Azzurra in March 2022, on one of its very first sailings, from Aqaba, Jordan, to Athens: every inch of the vessel, it seemed, gleamed, with glass, mirrors, polished stainless steel, and Italian marble. The retro-chic pool, where I met Jennings, is surrounded by furnishings from Italian designer Paola Lenti, and the ship’s colorful zigzag-patterned towels and bathrobes are supplied by Missoni Home Collection. Swivel chairs and rounded Love sofas from the Dutch company Moooi gave me flashbacks to James Bond movies from the 1970s.

I felt a bit like a secret agent myself, what with all the water toys buzzing around the ship. When Azzurra is at anchor, passengers can take out kayaks, paddleboards, and Seabobs, handheld motorized watercraft for snorkeling or diving. Three hydro-jet speedboats, which get pushed out of the hull by a giant claw, serve as tenders for transport to shore. As on larger ships, passengers can choose from a variety of excursions: on my trip in the eastern Mediterranean, the choices included a tour of the ancient city of Petra and an e-bike ride around Kuşadasi, Turkey.

The onboard experience rivals that of more luxurious lines, such as Scenic, which, like Emerald, is owned by the Australian entrepreneurs Glen and Karen Moroney. They recruited experienced staff from other high-end cruise brands, and the result is a personable crew — they remember your name and are happy to share their own stories. (I met one acoustic guitarist, Pablo Briceño, who’s trying to make it big on Spotify.) Most of Azzurra’s cabins have balconies, and top staterooms, including the Owner’s and Yacht suites, have spacious terraces.

The food, which incorporates plenty of local ingredients, is excellent. I loved the healthy shots — blueberry smoothies one morning; a blend of watermelon, lime, chile, and cinnamon another — and fresh figs at the breakfast buffet; a chef carved portions of a giant line-caught tuna at lunch. At night, the buffet area of the restaurant La Cucina becomes an open kitchen, and passengers sit, indoors or out, at big tables that encourage conversation with new friends. (There are also some smaller tables for date nights.)

On my trip, most passengers preferred to be out of their cabins and socializing. Trivia contests — made more fun by the mix of American, Australian, and British passengers — were particularly popular. Emerald had scheduled a DJ’d dance party around the big whirlpool and Sky Bar on the top deck, but unseasonably chilly weather nixed that plan. If Olivia Newton John comes over the speakers, I imagine the Aussies go wild.

A version of this story first appeared in the December 2022/January 2023 issue of Travel + Leisure under the headline "All Decked Out."

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Are cruises per person or per room?

Cruise Pricing Demystified: Per Person or Per Room? Plan Your Perfect Voyage with Clarity!

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Cruise trips provide a delightful combination of travel, excitement, and relaxation. However, it might be challenging for the majority of tourists to comprehend the cruise pricing structure. One of the most common inquiries relates to how cruise pricing is determined for each person or room.

Cruise Prices per Person or Room

1. basic information on the price of cruises.

Before we delve into this "per person" or "per room" debate, let's begin with the fundamental elements that impact cruise fares. The factors affecting the cost of a cruise are as follows:

• Categories of cabin: There's an important role to play in the type of cabin you choose, as interior rooms are more cost-effective than ocean-view cabins, balconies, and suites. 
• Cruises: There are a variety of pricing strategies among the cruise lines, with some catering to budget-conscious passengers and others offering luxury experiences.
• Additional costs: The total cost can increase due to additional expenses, such as gratuities, excursions, specialty meals, and beverages. 
• Timing: the cost of booking a cruise can vary depending on how far in advance you've made your reservation, with early reservations often resulting in lower fares.

Look at the "per person" or "per room" question.

2. Per Person cruise pricing:

The "per person" model has been the most common way of charging for cruises. As a result, the cost per passenger on board is included in the advertised fare. Here is the way things work:

Key Points:

• Each traveler in the cabin is charged the base cruise fare, which typically covers accommodations, onboard meals, and basic entertainment.
• Additional expenses such as taxes, fees, gratuities, and optional extras are typically added per person.
• Families or groups booking multiple cabins will pay the per-person fare for each cabin's occupants.

This pricing model provides transparency, making it clear how much each traveler contributes to the overall cost of the cruise. It also allows cruise lines to offer varying discounts or promotions for specific passengers, such as children or seniors.

3. Cruise Pricing: Per Room

While less common, some cruise lines and promotions use a "per room" pricing structure. In this case, the total cost is based on the cabin rather than the number of occupants. Here's what you need to know:

• The cabin's total price remains the same regardless of how many people share it up to its maximum occupancy.
• This model can be advantageous for families or groups who plan to have more occupants than the typical two-person cabin.
• However, it may lead to pricing confusion when it comes to comparing fares for different stateroom categories or cruise lines.

Notably, "per room" pricing is less common and typically associated with specific promotional deals or all-inclusive packages offered by certain cruise lines.

4. How to Determine the Right Cruise Pricing Model

When booking a cruise , it's essential to clarify whether the cruise fare is "per person" or "per room" to avoid any surprises. Here are some steps to help you determine which pricing model suits your needs:

• Read the cruise line's terms and conditions to understand their pricing structure.
• Consult with a travel agent or cruise specialist who can explain the specific pricing model for your chosen cruise.
• Compare total costs when evaluating cruise options – consider both the base fare and additional expenses.

In most cases, most cruises you encounter will use the "per person" pricing model, but it's always wise to double-check, especially when exploring special promotions or unique cruise experiences.

Also Read:  How to Choose the Best Stateroom on a Cruise?

Understanding how cruise fares are calculated – whether "per person" or "per room" – is essential for making informed travel decisions. While the "per person" pricing model is the norm, variations can exist, and promotional deals may offer alternatives.

Ultimately, your choice between "per person" and "per room" pricing should align with your specific travel preferences, group size, and budget. With this knowledge in hand, you can confidently set sail on your dream cruise, knowing exactly what to expect when it comes to the cost.

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Frequently Asked Questions

10 Cheap Cruises Ranked By Their 2024 Prices

• Cruising offers an affordable and all-inclusive vacation option, with prices as low as $27.25 per person per night.
• Travelers can explore beautiful destinations like Alaska, the Caribbean, Mexico, and the Bahamas on budget-friendly cruises.
• These cheap cruises provide luxury amenities, including open bars, water parks, multiple restaurants, and entertainment options.

The cruising world is one that travelers find hard to leave. With 24/7 food and restaurant opportunities, water parks, gyms, infinity pools, casinos, bars, and more, cruising is like going to a floating, all-inclusive hotel. While some cruise lines can be expensive, there are a few out there with some unbelievable deals that take their passengers on cruise ship voyages through Iceland's untamed beauty , cruises in the U.S. Virgin Islands , unique cruises in Greece , and the Caribbean's best-kept secrets, just to name a few.

The average cost per hotel room (excluding food) is predicted to be around $155 per person, per night, in 2024 . Still, in the land of cruising, travelers can enjoy an all-inclusive vacation for just $27.25 per person per night (the cheapest cruise on this list) or $95 per night (the most expensive 'cheap' cruise on this list).

For travelers looking to set sail and explore the world on a budget, these are the cheapest cruises to go on in 2024 (ranked by their 2024 prices), listed from cheap to 'super cheap'.

Related: 20 Biggest Cruise Ships In The World As Of 2023

7-Night Alaska Cruise

Total cost per person for 7 nights: $669.

This 7-night cruise departs from Seattle, Washington, and takes its passengers to Juneau, Skagway, Glacier Bay National Park, Ketchikan (Ward Cove), and Victoria, British Columbia. This is the cheapest cruise on offer for exploring the Alaskan waters.

The Norwegian Encore cruise line is one of the only ships that offer an open bar as part of the total price. It boasts an impressive 16 passenger decks, making it a cheap yet luxurious Alaskan vacation alternative.

• Cruise Ship: Norwegian Encore
• Book it here: 7 Night Alaska: Glacier Bay, Skagway & Juneau on Norwegian Encore

10-Night Eastern Caribbean Cruise

Total cost per person for 10 nights: $509.

This 10-night cruise is the ultimate Caribbean getaway; offering the cheapest way to experience the length of the Eastern Caribbean, including stops in Half Moon Cay, Bahamas (the Cruiseline Private Island), Grand Turk Island in Turks & Caicos, and Amber Cove (Puerto Plata), Dominican Republic.

This cruise comes in at just $51 per night, making it one of the cheapest Caribbean cruises (and vacations) to go on. The Carnival Venezia also offers more restaurants (8), outside rooms (1249), and passenger decks (15) than other cruise ships for the same price, making it one of the most cost-effective options.

• Cruise Ship: Carnival Venezia
• Book it here: 10 Night Eastern Caribbean Cruise

Related: Three Super Cheap Cruises Worth Booking In 2024

7-Night Caribbean: Great Stirrup Cay & Cozumel

Total cost per person for 7 nights: $479.

This 7-night Great Stirrup Cay & Cozumel cruise around the Caribbean is the cheapest cruise line with an all-inclusive mini-water park in 2024.

The ship houses 2 pools and 5 whirlpools, a Kids Aqua Park, which includes a kid-size pool and slide, splash area, fountains and sprays, and 3 multi-story water slides, including the thrilling Epic Plunge.

• Cruise Ship: Norwegian Epic Cruise Line
• Book it here: 7 Night Caribbean: Great Stirrup Cay & Cozumel

7-Night Mexican Riviera Cruise

Total cost per person for 7 nights: $469.

This 7-night Mexican Riviera Cruise that takes passengers to Puerto Vallarta, Mazatlan, and Cabo San Lucas in Mexico is the cheapest cruise departing from California.

The average price to visit and tour Mexico is $997 per person for 7 days , making this cruise an excellent all-inclusive alternative, costing half of the average price, with luxury amenities.

• Cruise Ship: Carnival Panorama
• Book it here: 7 Night Mexican Riviera Cruise

The cheapest cabin for this cruise is the interior cabin - bear this in mind when booking.

6-Night Pacific Coastal Cruise

Total cost per person for 6 nights: $451.

This 6-night Pacific Coastal Cruise is another one of the cheapest 2024 cruises; it takes its passengers on a cost-effective journey one-way to discover the West Coast of Canada and the United States from Vancouver, British Columbia, to Los Angeles, California. The cruise explores sights in Vancouver before moving on to Victoria, British Columbia, San Francisco, California, Catalina Island, California, and ending in Los Angeles, California.

On the route, this affordable cruise ensures that entertainment, food, exercise, and more are all covered with its state-of-the-art facilities that aim to cost less than what passengers usually spend at home.

• Cruise Ship: Brilliance of the Seas
• Book it here: 6 Night Pacific Coastal Cruise

Related: 10 Luxury Cruise Lines, Ranked By Passenger Review

11-Night Caribbean & Bahamas Cruise

Total price per person for 11 nights: $369.

Easily rivaling even the best Caribbean island hopping cruises , this cheap, extensive cruise takes its passengers to Port Canaveral (Orlando), Florida, Cozumel, Mexico, Costa Maya (Mahahual), Mexico, Ocean Cay Marine Reserve in the Bahamas (a Cruise Line Private Island) and Miami, Florida for just $34 per person per night.

Dining, entertainment, bars, and sports zones are all included in the price, making it one of the amazing yet cheap family cruises for 2024.

• Cruise Ship: MSC Meraviglia
• Book it here: 11 Night Caribbean & Bahamas Cruise

5-Day Eastern Caribbean Cruise

Total for 5 days per person: $349.

This cheap almost-week-long Eastern Caribbean voyage takes passengers from Port Canaveral in Orlando to Grand Turk in the Turks and Caicos Islands before heading to Amber Cove in the Dominican Republic and ending back in Port Canaveral.

The cruise includes amazing stage shows, live musical performances, stand-up comedy, clubs, bars, and lounges featuring DJs spinning, karaoke, piano sing-alongs, and more. On board, guests can also enjoy parties, game shows, and trivia contests.

There are also great options for all six meals — breakfast, brunch, lunch, afternoon tea, dinner, and late-night snacks at the full-service Main Dining Room or the casual Lido Restaurant. These amenities make it one of the cheapest entertainment-filled cruises for 2024.

• Cruise Ship: Carnival Freedom
• Book it here: 5 Day Eastern Caribbean Cruise

4-Day Baja Mexico Cruise From Los Angeles

Total cost for four days per person: $229.

The Carnival Radiance takes its passengers on the cheapest trip to Mexico from Los Angeles they'll ever find. Stops along the way include Catalina Island, Ensenada, and Long Beach in Los Angeles.

From endless taco trains to never-ending burrito buffets and all-one-can-drink tequila, this all-inclusive Mexican fiesta is the cheapest way to spend a vacation in Mexico.

• Cruise Ship: Carnival Radiance
• Book it here: 4- Day Baja Mexico Cruise From Los Angeles

2-Night Margaritaville At Sea Paradise Cruise

Total cost for 2 nights per person: $148.50.

This 2-night cruise through the Florida seas departs from Palm Beach, Florida, and takes its passengers on an all-inclusive, relaxing getaway. This cruise doesn't have any island extras that passengers need to budget for, making it one of the cheapest cruises to book in 2024.

Passengers won't need to worry about paying for anything more once they're on board.

• Cruise Ship: Margaritaville at Sea Paradise
• Book it here: 2-Night Florida Cruise 2024

4-Night MSC Bahamas Cruise

Total cost for 4 nights per person: $109.

Not only is this one of the most affordable Bahamas cruises , but it also comes in as the cheapest cruise for 2024. This ultimate budget-friendly cruise is the 4-night MSC Seashore Bahamas Cruise, which takes its passengers on a journey to the luscious Bahamas. The ship departs from Miami and stops over at Nassau and Freeport before heading back to Miami.

The only thing not included in this all-inclusive vacation is a Wi-Fi and on-board credit package. The MSC Seashore is one of the biggest MSC cruise ships, with multiple amenities while also being the cheapest to offer such amenities.

• Cruise Ship: MSC Seashore
• Book it here: 4-Night Bahamas Cruise 2024

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.

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Seattle area clocks second-lowest mileage per person among large metros

Anyone who drives around the Seattle area gets used to heavily-congested roads and many hours wasted sitting in traffic. So you would probably think we drive a lot more than most other Americans who live in large metro areas.

But some new data shows the opposite.

From June 2022 and May 2023, Seattle area motorists averaged driving around 16.4 miles per day, according to a report on roadway transportation emissions from StreetLight, a San Francisco-based transportation-data analytics firm. Seattle ranked second lowest for vehicle miles traveled (VMT) per person among the 100 biggest U.S. metro areas.

Among the 100 largest metro areas in the U.S., Seattle drivers clocked the second-lowest average mileage from June 2022 to May 2023, at 16.43 miles per day.

The only metro area with a lower VMT per capita was San Jose, at around 12.2 miles per day. Detroit ranked third-lowest behind Seattle, at 16.5 miles per day.

The Omaha area had the highest VMT per person, at 43.2 miles per day. Bakersfield, Calif., ranked second at 41.1 miles, followed by the Augusta, Ga., metro area, at 40.1 miles.

StreetLight uses anonymized data from various sources like cellphones, vehicle GPS, and traffic sensors to analyze how people are traveling and using the transportation network.

There are surely a number of factors behind Seattle’s low VMT, but one that stands out is the pervasiveness of remote work here. In a column last year , I looked at census data showing a fourfold increase in the number of Seattle residents who worked from home between 2019 and 2023, while the number who drove alone or carpooled fell sharply.

The tech industry adapted very well to remote work during the pandemic, and has contributed to the high numbers of folks working from home in Seattle. This also likely helps explain why the San Jose area, the nation’s preeminent tech hub, had the lowest VMT.

Of course, even with a low VMT, we still spend a lot of time stuck in traffic.

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The VMT data is one of eight factors used by StreetLight to rank the nation’s largest metros for their overall roadway transportation emissions. In their 2024 U.S. Transportation Climate Impact Report, Seattle’s strong VMT showing helped us place fifth overall among the 100 metros.

U.S. VMT fell dramatically in 2020 due to the COVID pandemic, according to StreetLight’s report, but more recently, it’s been on the rise. The change in VMT over the course of the June 2022 to May 2023 period was also among the eight factors used to create the rankings. And here, Seattle had its lowest score, coming in at 62nd among the 100 metro areas, as the per capita VMT increased by nearly 2%. El Paso, Texas had by far the largest increase in VMT, increasing a remarkable 25%.

But Seattle performed well in several other measures.

We ranked sixth for vehicle fuel economy, which was surely due in part to the popularity of hybrids and EVs here. Seattle-area vehicles had an average fuel economy of 22.2 miles-per-gallon. San Jose had the best vehicle fuel economy among the metro areas.

While transit ridership took a big hit during the pandemic, and hasn’t yet recovered, Seattle still does well compared with other metro areas. We ranked fifth. New York, unsurprisingly, was the top metro for transit ridership.

StreetLight used vehicle registration data to rank EV penetration in the 100 metro areas, and Seattle ranked sixth, with two EVs per 100 people. San Jose ranked No.1 with six EVs per 100 people. Seventy-five metros had fewer than one EV per 100 people.

Seattle did not land in the Top 10 for bicycle ridership, pedestrian activity or truck VMT.

San Jose ranked No. 1 overall in the report. The three other metros that placed ahead of Seattle were New York, San Francisco and Los Angeles, in that order. Portland ranked seventh.

Many of the worst performing metros were in the South.

Which one came in last place? That dubious distinction goes to Augusta, Ga., ranking 100th among the metro areas.

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The opinions expressed in reader comments are those of the author only and do not reflect the opinions of The Seattle Times.

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Rondo avenue renaming, project details.

Description The City of Saint Paul is renaming sections of both Concordia Avenue and St. Anthony Street to Rondo Avenue. 

• Concordia Avenue from Griggs Street to Mackubin Street will be renamed Rondo Avenue. The sections of Concordia Avenue that are east and west of this area will remain named Concordia Avenue.
• St. Anthony Avenue from Western Avenue to Rice Street will be renamed Rondo Avenue.

Concordia Avenue from Griggs Street to Mackubin Street and St Anthony Avenue from Western Avenue to Rice Street

Timeline 2024

Celebrate the Renaming of Rondo Avenue!

Join us on Tuesday, April 30 to celebrate the renaming of Rondo Avenue at community celebration event.

Tuesday, April 30, 2024 4:00 - 6:30 p.m. Rondo Plaza (327 N Fisk Street, Saint Paul)

Why is the city renaming the street.

By the mid-1900s, the Rondo neighborhood was the thriving center of African American life in Minnesota. This neighborhood was home to important historical Saint Paul commerce and culture. In the 1960s, with the construction of Interstate 94, hundreds of homes and businesses along Rondo Avenue were destroyed. In January 1964, a resolution was introduced to rename the southern frontage road of the newly constructed interstate to Concordia Avenue. After no public discussion, the resolution passed. The once-thriving community that was destroyed by the interstate was now erased in name too. 

In recent years, there have been extensive public conversations around the future of the I-94 corridor along with efforts to preserve and build upon the legacy of Rondo. As part of the city’s effort to undo the damage to the community caused by the construction of the interstate and other destructive policies, the City Council and Mayor Carter, on the recommendation of the city’s Heritage Preservation Commission, have moved to officially restore Rondo Avenue to its original name. 

Address Change from Concordia Avenue and St Anthony Avenue to Rondo Avenue for Some Properties

Properties located on Concordia Avenue from Griggs Street to Mackubin Avenue and on St Anthony Avenue from Western Avenue to Rice Street will have an address change. The property number will NOT change. For example, if the current/old address is 670 Concordia Avenue, the new address is 670 Rondo Avenue.

The new address will become effective on April 10, 2024. This property will continue to receive U.S. mail addressed to the old address forwarded to the new Rondo Avenue address for a period of up to 18 months.

The city has coordinated with U.S. Postal Service to process all of the address changes in their database at one time. Please DO NOT submit a Change of Address form to the Post Office.

What you need to do if your address is changing

The City of Saint Paul recognizes this historic street name change may require some additional work for you as one of the property owners who is required to change their address.

Depending on your specific situation you may need to contact, notify, and change your property street address with one or more of the following agencies, businesses or organizations:

• Utilities (e.g. electric, gas, water, cable/internet)
• Bank(s) and other financial or lending institutions 
• Business filings or records
• Saint Paul Public Schools or other school institutions
• Credit cards
• Subscriptions
• Online accounts with your mailing address
• Minnesota Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV), or other licensing agencies
• Friends, family, and business relations

Property owners may be required to update addresses on legal documents, including, but not limited to various personal or business licenses, identification cards, and financial accounts and checks. The City of Saint Paul will reimburse you as the property owner, business owner, or resident for selected costs associated with updating your property address. 

• Residents living at the property with an address change can be reimbursed up to $100 per person/per household  for personal address changes. 
• Individuals who operate a legal business at a property with an address change can be reimbursed up to $300 per business .

To be reimbursed for accepted address change expenses, please submit any reimbursements no later than November 1, 2024.

• Any person who chooses to have qualified expenses reimbursed must complete the attached W9 form. This will NOT be reported as taxable income. The city requires this information in our system to create a check payment.
• Please submit the completed W-9 (fillable) form with your first reimbursement receipts.
• Reimbursements MUST have a detailed receipt indicating date, cost, and document the item(s).
• Reimbursements must be submitted by mail for paper receipts, or electronically with (PDF or JPG)
• You can submit reimbursements whenever you want prior to November 1, 2024.
• Reimbursement checks will take about 14 business days to be mailed to the resident.
• The city will only reimburse costs associated with an address change. For example, getting a new, current Minnesota Driver’s License because of an address change is $26. If you are renewing your driver’s license, the city will only reimburse for $26 which is the cost of the address change, not the full cost for a renewal.

Submit reimbursements, receipts, and the W-9 (fillable) form by mail or email no later than November 1, 2024 to:

Attn: Michelle Gregoire Saint Paul Public Works 25 W. 4th Street CHA 1500 St. Paul, MN 55102

For any additional questions, please contact Lisa Hiebert at [email protected] .

Project Documents

Reimbursement information & w-9.

• W-9 (fillable)

List of Reimbursable Items:

Resident and/or property owner (reimbursed up to $100.00 per person/per household).

Driver’s License / State ID Card (Address Change Only)

Personal Checks (Up to 80 Checks)

Return Address Stamp (1 Stamp)

Business (Reimbursed up to $300.00 per business)

Business License (Address Change Only)

Business Checks (Up to 250 Checks)

Business Cards (Up to 250 Cards)

Business Letterhead (Up to 500 Sheets)

Business Envelopes (Up to 500 Envelopes)

• Property owner and Resident Letter April 2024

Related Projects

Concordia/rondo avenue resurfacing, st anthony/rondo avenue resurfacing.

[email protected] 651-266-6100