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Last Minute Cruise Offers

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4 Night Cruise to the Bahamas

• You want a fun, value-packed cruise on a manageable scale
• You don't need the flashy features of MSC's newer ships
• You want a cruise experience that focuses on unique itineraries
• You want splash parks, waterslides and bowling alleys onboard
• You are looking for a cruise that caters to North Americans

7 Night Cruise to Alaska

• You want a big-ship experience with plenty of classy spaces
• You appreciate good cuisine, wine and beverage offerings
• You enjoy a more upscale cruise experience on a big ship
• You always cruise on ships that are brand-new and innovative
• You want the latest technological advances and features
• You aren’t interested on longer, more unique itineraries

7 Night Cruise to the Bahamas

• You want a cutting-edge family cruise with European flair
• You like nonstop activities with round-the-clock fun for all
• You want dozens of different bars, lounges and restaurants
• You don't want cruise catering to European tastes first
• You dislike announcements made in up to six different languages

3 Night Cruise to the Bahamas

4 night cruise to the mexican riviera.

• You want new features like virtual balconies in inside cabins
• You want a big-ship experience with family-friendly fun
• You want a splash of traditional grandeur with lots of choice
• You want a ship with plenty of massive, windowed public rooms
• You want a quiet cruise experience that focuses on relaxation

7 Night Cruise to Canada & New England

5 Night Cruise to the Western Caribbean

• You want a freshly renovated older ship with lots of activities
• You like plenty of open decks and cabins with balconies
• You want a ship that provides fun with a touch of class
• You want a quiet, classically understated cruise experience
• You need diversions like massive waterparks and ziplines

7 Night Cruise to the Western Mediterranean

4 Night Cruise to Canada & New England

• You want mega-ship fun with innovative onboard features
• You need a cruise that is suitable for families of all ages
• You want your ships big and bold but with a touch of class
• You hate crowds; things can get competitive at the buffet
• You are looking for cruises longer than a week in duration
• You don't enjoy being upsold for promotions and packages

5 Night Cruise to Bermuda

• You want to sail aboard one of Celebrity’s newer ships
• You like plenty of activities, dining options and lounges
• You want a classy cruise experience at a reasonable price
• You dislike the idea of sailing with over 3,000 passengers
• You don’t want to be bothered with upsells and other costs

4 Night Cruise to the Western Caribbean

• You a value-packed cruise on a ship with plenty of features
• You find Royal Caribbean's newer ships to be just too big
• You like to keep busy and want a full schedule of activities
• You want the wow factor of Royal Caribbean's big new ships
• You need spacious cabins; standard cabins are fairly tight
• You want all the latest bells and whistles to be onboard

7 Night Cruise to the Eastern Caribbean

• You seek MSC Cruises' next-gen Seaside EVO-class ships that are slightly bigger and better laid out
• You appreciate a wide variety of dining venues and activities, particularly geared towards families
• You seek a very good cruise value with lots included for a reasonable price point
• You prefer larger cabin bathrooms and showers over the very small entry-level ones onboard
• You miss the zip-line as only present on the first two Seaside-class ships
• You like smaller, quieter cruise ships with fewer fellow passengers

• You want a big-ship cruise to the most popular ports of call
• You want nonstop active entertainment by day and by night
• You want the latest features of Royal Caribbean's larger ships
• You don't like being upsold; extra cost activities abound
• You want to visit exotic, off-the-beaten-path ports of call
• You are looking for an intimate, traditional cruise experience

7 Night Cruise to Bermuda

• You want nearly a dozen different onboard dining options
• You appreciate a wide array of public rooms and lounges
• You enjoy vibrant, nonstop nightlife and production shows
• You're on a budget; extra onboard costs can add up quickly
• You prefer a more classic, quietly subdued cruise experience

3 Night Cruise to the Mexican Riviera

7 night cruise to the western caribbean.

Last Minute Cruises

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

Very good price

3 Night Bahamas

Fort Lauderdale; Nassau, Bahamas; Fort Lauderdale

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12 Night Europe

Southampton (London)United Kingdom; Cork Ireland; Dublin; Belfast;... Southampton (London)United Kingdom

1 Night Pacific Coastal

Vancouver; Seattle

7 Night Alaska

Vancouver; Juneau, Alaska; Skagway; Ketchikan; Vancouver

11 Night Europe

Barcelona; Palma de Mallorca; Cannes; Civitavecchia Rome, Italy; Messina; Va... Venice (Trieste), Italy

8 Night Europe

Southampton; Cadiz (Tours To Seville), Spain; Malaga (Tours To Gr... Civitavecchia (Tours To Rome),Italy

14 Night Alaska

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

8 Night Bermuda

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Royal Caribbean Cruise Deals Guide

When it comes to planning the ultimate getaway, there are so many reasons why cruise vacations rank among the most popular travel options. First of all, they’re completely stress-free. On a cruise vacation, all the planning is taken care of by the cruise line — from the destinations you sail to and the shore excursions available at each port, to a full range of entertainment and activities happening onboard every day. If you’re not a planner, or if the only things you’re looking to focus on during your getaway is savoring great food, relaxing, and soaking up the sights, cruise vacations are the way to go. A cruise vacation is also a great option if you’re traveling with the whole family, especially when you opt for a Royal Caribbean cruise. All of the ships in this cruise line’s fleet offer family-friendly experiences for guests of all ages. Even little ones will find plenty of ways to play with spaces and activities designed for tots to tweens. One of the top reasons savvy travelers love cruising, though, is because of the incredible value it offers. With Royal Caribbean, your cruise fare includes access to most of the ship’s attractions, select dining venues and all of the entertainment onboard. If you want to make your experience even more all-inclusive, you can opt for beverage and specialty dining packages that cover drinks and dinner at some of the most exclusive restaurants in the fleet. On top of all that, the cruise line presents frequent limited-time offers and seasonal sales, making it easy to score big savings when booking your vacation.

I’m ready to start planning my cruise — how can I score the best deals?

Whether you’re looking to book a short getaway or a longer adventure to far-flung destinations, Royal Caribbean makes it easy to save big on everything from your cruise fare to special experiences onboard and onshore. The first step to making sure you get the best deals is to join the cruise line’s email list. Once you’ve signed up, you’ll receive regular updates on all the latest offers, like deals by destination , kids sail free promotions and flash sales. The savings don’t end when you book your cruise, though. Once you’ve made a reservation, you’ll also receive notifications about special offers for onboard experiences — like discounts on beverage and specialty dining packages, shore excursions, spa services, and more via My Royal Cruise .

Does it pay to plan ahead, or should I wait until the last minute?  

It’s an age-old question — does the early bird really get the worm, or are there perks to taking a “wait-and-see” approach? If you’re booking a cruise vacation, you’ll find there are benefits to both strategies. Planning ahead is a great way to score big savings , as Royal Caribbean often runs early saver deals to guests booking well in advance. It’s also pretty safe to assume prices usually go up as availability goes down the closer you get to your sail date, so booking ahead is a surefire way to lock in a great rate. That said, booking a cruise at the last minute can also yield some unexpected savings — but only if the itinerary you’re interested in hasn’t sold out yet.

If you can be flexible when it comes to your travel dates, you’ll have your pick of unbeatable savings. Popular vacation dates — like the holidays , spring break , summer vacation and week long cruises — sometimes see the highest prices (though you might get lucky with a seasonal sale). If you have the flexibility to travel during the shoulder season or off season, you’ll likely enjoy big savings on popular stateroom categories , like Balconies and even Suites. The deals don’t only apply to your cruise fare, though. Once you’ve booked your vacation, you could easily unlock discounts and specials on add-ons, including beverage and dining packages , Voom® high speed internet, shore excursions, and amazing experiences not included in your cruise fare — like a day of pampering at Vitality SM Spa, a behind-the-scenes tour of the ship’s galley followed by brunch, VIP seating at shows, and much more.

How can I maximize the value of my cruise vacation?

There are plenty of ways to get more bang for your buck when you sail on a Royal Caribbean cruise. Every ship in the fleet offers a range of delicious complimentary dining options , but you can dig into even more crave-worthy flavor by purchasing a Specialty Dining Package for less ahead of your cruise. Add a Specialty Beverage Package — which includes unlimited alcoholic beverages, soda, and more — and your experience is as close to all-inclusive as it gets. And with so many complimentary shows and attractions onboard, you can easily fill every sea day without spending a single dollar extra.

Royal Caribbean also offers deals based on departure ports  and destinations, so if you’re a flexible traveler looking for great savings, you can plan your next vacation around which itineraries are on sale. Just check your email or visit RoyalCaribbean.com/cruise-deals to stay up to date on promotions, sales and special offers. You can even browse sailings and deals by homeport, destination and season, so you can rest assured you’re getting the best possible deal no matter when or where in the world you choose to set sai.

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Head out on the water, look to new thrills, and cruise your way to adventure. Lounge on deck, discover new destinations, or just enjoy having everything a vacation could need all in one floating place.

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Last Minute Cruises

Cruise search, special cruise offers.

Royal Caribbean

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

Norwegian Cruise Line

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

Holland America

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

Princess Cruises

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

Celebrity Cruises

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

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

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

Featured Last Minute Cruise Deals

Best last minute cruise deals by length.

• Military & Civil Service Rates - Must call to book
• Up to $1600 CASH BACK : EXCLUSIVE OFFER
• Great Rates + up to $50 Onboard Credit: on select sailings
• EARLY SAVER SALE: plus reduced deposits starting from $50 per person
• 48 HOUR SALE: Great Guarantee Rates on select ships and sailings
• Save with Senior Rates: Guests over 55 can save with a senior rate
• Receive Great Reduced Rates: on select staterooms and sailings
• Fun Select Rates: Enjoy a Two Category Upgrade
• Reduced Rates for Military Personnel!
• Up to $1,700 ONBOARD CREDIT: EXCLUSIVE OFFER
• Princess Premier Upgrade: Beverage Package, Wi-Fi, Crew Appreciation, Specialty Dining + more
• Up to 35% Off + 3rd & 4th Guests Sail Free
• MILITARY: Up to $250 Onboard Spending
• Up to $1700 ONBOARD CREDIT: EXCLUSIVE OFFER
• Great Savings: up to 75% OFF 2nd Guest: on select ship and sail dates
• 3rd/4th/5th Guests Sail Free: on select ship and sail dates
• Get up to $200 Savings: per stateroom on select ships and sail dates
• Exciting Deals: INCREDIBLE RATES
• ALL INCLUDED: Free Classic Beverage Package + Basic Wi-Fi
• SAVE: up to $50 ONBOARD CREDIT on select departures!
• Up to $1700 CASH BACK: EXCLUSIVE OFFER
• 70% Off 2nd Guest + Take All FREE on select sailings
• FREE Open Bar, Specialty Dining, Wi-Fi, Excursion Credit: & more
• EXCLUSIVE Get Up To $300 Onboard Spending: on select categories & sailings
• 50% Reduced Deposit: Club Balcony Suites & below
• Cruise Next Double Up : (select categories & sailings)
• INSTANT SAVINGS up to $700 Instant Savings: per stateroom on select sailings & categories
• EXCLUSIVE: FREE GRATUITIES
• Kids Sail FREE: Guest 12 & under SAIL FREE (select 3 night or longer sailings)
• BOGO60 Sale: 60% OFF 2nd Guest + 30% OFF 3rd/4th Guests
• $50 Onboard Credit on select Royal Caribbean Cruises!
• FREE Drinks, FREE Gratuities & Excursion Credit
• UPGRADE OFFER : Wi-Fi, Specialty Dining, Premium Drink Package & more
• Up to $75 Instant Savings: per stateroom on select sailings
• PERFECT DAY AT COCO CAY
• Up to $2,800 OFF: compliments of Cruise.com
• Save Up to 25% on select sailings
• EXCLUSIVE Rates: Book Now and Save
• My Drinks Packages: on select sailings and categories
• Exclusive Inclusions : Free Gratuities, Unlimited Wi-Fi and more
• Up to $100 ONBOARD CREDIT: EXCLUSIVE OFFER
• Sail With Miami's 105.9 Paul Castronovo's Morning Show
• 3rd & 4th Guests Sail Free : with Free at Sea (select sailings)
• $25 Onboard Credit
• FREE Gratuities: on select categories and sailings
• Buy 1st Guest Air, 2nd Guest Flies FREE: from select gateways
• Amenities include a Cocktail Reception, Exclusive Shore Event + more
• Back to Back Savings: Save up to $200 Savings when you book a back to back cruise
• $50 Onboard Credit
• Up to $500 per person Airfare Savings: on select Alaska & Europe itineraries
• $85 ONBOARD CREDIT!
• $50 ONBOARD CREDIT: EXCLUSIVE OFFER
• $75 ONBOARD CREDIT: EXCLUSIVE OFFER
• FREE SPECIALTY DINING for 2: on select categories, ships and sail dates
• Receive One Extra Latitude Point: per night on select sailings
• Up to $200 ONBOARD CREDIT: EXCLUSIVE OFFER
• Military Special - Up to $250 Onboard Credit
• Complimentary Canapés
• Champagne Balcony Breakfast for Two
• Up to 50% OFF, Up to $300 Onboard Credit + Reduced Deposit: on select categories and sailings
• Get up to $150 Onboard Spending: per stateroom on select sailings
• $85 ONBOARD CREDIT: Exclusive Offer
• Up To 80% Off 2nd Guest: on select categories & voyages
• Up to $1700 ONBOARD CREDIT: EXCLUSIVE
• FREE GRATUITIES: on select categories and sailings
• FREE Beverage Package, Wi-fi, Excursions + More: on select categories & sailings
• Up To 50% of Single Supplement Waived: select sailings & categories
• Exclusive Offer Up to $200 Onboard Credit Select Sailings
• Get Up To $200 Onboard Spending: on select categories and sailings

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

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• Cruise Ships
• Carnival Sunrise

Carnival Sunrise ®

• Dining & Activities
• Past Guest Photos
• Sails From:

Catching a great sunrise isn't just for early-risers. Carnival Sunrise has enough warm fun for everybody to bask in. So, everybody — here's a little of what you can expect from Carnival Sunrise. If you're ready for some amazing things to do let's start with the musical stage-show stylings of Playlist Productions ™ . Also up on stage find laugh-out-loud performances at Punchliner ™ Comedy Club . Kids get to have a blast with others their age at one of three youth spaces , while adults will find Piano Bar 88 ™ a melodious place to grab a drink in the evening. And who doesn't love a good waterslide? Carnival WaterWorks ™ is the ship's designated splash zone. RedFrog Pub ® could be called Carnival Sunrise's center of good cheer and great beers! For delicious bites served with that same casual, can-do-fun attitude, look to Guy's Pig & Anchor Bar-B-Que Smokehouse | Brewhouse ™ . Or for something a little more refined, swing by Bonsai Sushi ™ . And for doing the ever-important — but also fun — work of saluting heroes, raise a glass at the Heroes Tribute Bar . Fancying things up a little are the Italian classics of Cucina del Capitano ® , while another notch up you'll find Fahrenheit 555 Steakhouse ™ . We think you see by now that, from sun-up to sunset and well into the night, you'll find a day aboard Carnival Sunrise full of amazing ways to have fun. (Plus, don't forget the amazing destinations to see!) Best of all, at the end of the day... remember that your vacation on Carnival Sunrise features another great one tomorrow.

• 101,509 Gross Tonnage
• 2,984 Guest Capacity
• 893 Length In Feet
• 1,108 Onboard Crew

INSIDE THIS SHIP

Just like a delicious cake, your ship is made of layers. Find out which fun ingredients — staterooms, dining, activities — go into each deck.

YOUR STATEROOM

Cloud 9 spa interior.

Amenities exclusive to Cloud 9 Spa ™ staterooms and suites:

• Unique welcome ritual
• Priority spa reservations
• Unlimited use of Thermal Suites, plus scrub kit
• Two complimentary fitness classes (per guest)
• Complimentary body composition analysis
• Exclusive discounts on treatments during port days
• Cloud 9 Spa bathrobes and slippers
• Upgraded ELEMIS in-stateroom toiletries

Plus, every room includes:

• Dedicated stateroom attendant
• Soft, cozy linens
• Plenty of closet and drawer space
• In-room safe for valuables
• Stateroom climate control

Cloud 9 Spa Interior with Picture Window (Walkway View)

Interior with picture window (walkway view).

Every room includes:

Interior with Picture Window (Obstructed View)

Interior upper/lower (porthole), interior upper/lower, scenic ocean view.

Your Scenic Ocean View stateroom aboard Carnival Sunrise provides the best view of the sea that lies ahead of the ship, with views unlike any on land. And you'll get more of them, too, with floor-to-ceiling windows providing plenty of looking-glass for gazing at the natural wonders of the sea... and let's not forget sunrise and sunset.

Ocean View (Obstructed View)

Premium vista balcony.

Premium Vista Balcony staterooms were designed to wrap around the aft corners of Carnival Sunrise, giving you a unique vantage point from which to enjoy luxuriously panoramic views of the sky and the sea — and yes, take in even more of that sunshine.

Premium Balcony

Step into a Premium Balcony stateroom aboard Carnival Sunrise and it's easy to see exactly what you';re getting: one seriously spacious stateroom. It's about more than just the room itself, you'll find; step onto your oversized balcony and you'll find that when there's a sea breeze in your hair, there's no limit to the relaxation you can have.

Cloud 9 Spa Balcony

Whether you're warming up for your spa appointment or winding down after your treatment, there's no better place to do it than on your Cloud 9 Spa Balcony. Breathing is important — take the ocean breeze in, then let it out — you're already getting the hang of the whole spa thing!

Cloud 9 Spa Balcony (Obstructed View)

Whether you're warming up for your spa appointment or winding down after your treatment, there's no better place to do it than on your Cloud 9 Spa Balcony. Breathing is important — take the ocean breeze in, then let it out — you're already getting the hang of the whole spa thing! (Note that the view will be partially obstructed.)

Aft-View Extended Balcony

Aft-View Extended Balcony staterooms feature a larger balcony for more lounge-around room, more kick-back space; not to even mention some of the best stern-side views you'll find anywhere. Get ready to relax as you gaze upon Carnival Sunrise's gentle wake from your spacious balcony.

Balcony staterooms were designed for maximum sea breeze and the most stunning views, so look to a balcony if you're looking to cruise aboard Carnival Sunrise. Any time you're in your room, you're just steps away from your own personal outdoor oasis, featuring the sort of sea view you can also feel.

Captain's Suite

This is the best room you can get… without bunking up with the guy himself. A Captain’s Suite aboard Carnival Sunrise features tons of indoor space, and a huge balcony when you need a little more. Back inside you’ll find a king-size bed, two full bathrooms (one with a tub), plus a separate living room that sleeps another three. And VIP check-in? Naturally.

Amenities exclusive to suites:

• Priority check-in and boarding
• Priority Main Dining Room time assignment
• Priority debarkation at homeport, and ports of call requiring a water shuttle or with arrival times later than 9:30 Am
• Two large bottles of water
• Pillow-top mattress

Extended Balcony Grand Suite

When you go for one of the largest, most luxurious rooms — and balcony — available on Carnival Sunrise, you get a room designed to suit your desire for comfort, inside and out. Add VIP check-in, a huge balcony, and even a convenient dressing area and you can begin to see just how extraordinarily comfy the entire experience can be.

Grand Suite

A Grand Suite aboard Carnival Sunrise features even more space than the standard suite — plenty of room in your room! This stateroom is loaded for an unparalleled experience: VIP check-in, a huge balcony, and even a convenient dressing area with vanity.

Ocean Suite

A Carnival Sunrise suite is the ultimate way to cruise. With more space for stretching out indoors, plus a large balcony for kicking back outdoors, try an Ocean Suite to experience private, luxurious relaxation. Ocean Suites also include VIP check-in, walk-in closet and bathroom with a tub.

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Is It Best to Book a Cruise Last-Minute?

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Cruising can be an excellent way to see multiple destinations in one trip. If you're considering booking a cruise soon, you may be wondering how to get the best deal. Do cruises get cheaper closer to departure? Is it best to book a cruise last-minute?

In short, last-minute cruise bookings could offer significant savings.

While booking a cruise last-minute isn’t the best option for everyone, it can be a win for your wallet if you're flexible and spontaneous. Find out what you need to know to book last-minute cruises.

» Learn more: Best credit cards for cruises

Last-minute cruise deals could offer savings

By booking a last-minute cruise deal a few weeks or a couple of months before sailing, you may be able to enjoy a more affordable vacation. Cruise lines often discount their prices a month or two before sailing to fill vacant cabins.

However, it's worth noting that a last-minute cruise doesn't always offer the most savings to travelers. Those who plan far ahead may be able to save even more.

Many cruise lines offer significant discounts to cruisegoers who book a year or more in advance. But that doesn't mean you should ignore a last-minute cruise deal that interests you.

You should know that scoring a deal on a popular itinerary during peak travel periods will be more challenging. But if you're flexible and open to letting a great deal determine where and when you travel, you may save a significant amount of money by booking a last-minute cruise.

Below are some pointers that can help increase the chances of scoring a last-minute deal:

Cruise during the shoulder season

Traveling during peak season is more costly because of demand. Booking a cruise during the shoulder season — the time between peak season and low season — can be beneficial because demand is much lower, and cabins go unfilled.

If you have a flexible schedule, research cruises sailing during the shoulder season and monitor prices to find a last-minute deal.

Book a repositioning cruise to save more

Some itineraries don't sell as quickly, and you can benefit by booking a last-minute deal for these types of sailings. Repositioning cruises, also called one-way cruises, start and end in different ports.

These itineraries tend to be longer ocean crossings, and passengers can expect to spend a lot of time at sea.

While you may be able to save a lot of money by booking a repositioning cruise, you'll also want to consider airfare costs. Having to book two one-way flights can be costly.

That said, using airline credit card rewards to cover the cost of your flights could help reduce your expenses.

» Learn more: The best cruise lines

How to find last-minute cruise deals

Here are a few ways to find a good price on a last-minute cruise:

Look for deals on each cruise line’s website : Many cruise lines, including Carnival, Royal Caribbean, Princess, Celebrity Cruises and Norwegian Cruise Line, have last-minute deals outlined on their website.

Use a price comparison tool to save: You can compare last-minute cruise deals using price comparison sites like Expedia, Priceline and TripAdvisor. 

Cruise-specific booking websites: You can also check for last-minute deals on cruise-specific booking websites like CruiseDirect, Cruises.com and Cruise Critic. 

Sign up for email alerts: You can sign up for your favorite cruise line's email list to be notified when money-saving deals are available.

» Learn more: Seven tips for getting the best deal on your next cruise

How much can you save by booking a last-minute cruise?

You're probably wondering how much money you can save by booking a last-minute cruise. The total savings potential depends on how and when you book your cruise, and what deals you find.

That said, it's possible to save 50% or more. We examined several last-minute deals for cruises departing within 30 days and found that some of the best deals offered savings from 60% to 70%. However, savings can vary.

» Learn more: The best ways to book a cruise

Considerations to make before booking a cheap cruise

If you plan to book a cruise deal, ensure you know what to expect first. Here are a few considerations you should make before confirming your trip:

Review booking terms

A last-minute cruise could save you money, but be sure to review the booking terms to avoid surprises. Your last-minute booking may be nonrefundable.

If you have to cancel your cruise, you may lose some or all of your money, depending on when you cancel.

Calculate all travel costs

While a cheap cruise may sound like a great deal, it's important to remember your other travel expenses.

If you live near a port, a last-minute cruise could be a bargain, but if you need to book airfare, your vacation could get expensive quickly. Airfare prices can be higher at the last minute, so research thoroughly before booking.

Cabin options may be limited

Many of the cheapest cabins book out well in advance, and many of the desirable cabins sell out early. That means you may have fewer cabin choices when booking at the last minute.

In some cases, the cruise line may choose a cabin for you. If you prefer a specific type of cabin, a last-minute cruise may not be the right fit for you.

» Learn more: 7 ways a cheap cruise gets pricey fast — and how to deal

Extras may be limited

Add-ons like drink packages and land excursions could be limited or more expensive when you book last-minute.

If you have your heart set on a particular experience, you may want to book your cruise well in advance to ensure you don’t miss out.

Last-minute cruises may not be for you if …

While many travelers can likely benefit from booking last-minute cruises, not all will. Booking at the last moment may not be a good option if any of the following are true:

You like to plan ahead.

You are picky about the type of cabin you get. 

You have specific preferences for certain excursions or add-ons.

You don't have a flexible schedule.

» Learn more: Are cruises all-inclusive?

Last-minute cruise deals recapped

Are last minute cruises cheaper? Not always — but they can offer significant savings.

If you’re flexible, you may be able to save money by booking a cruise a few weeks or a couple of months before sailing. Just be sure you consider all of your travel costs and review booking terms first — and ensure you have a valid passport in hand if you need one.

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The 9 Best Sites to Book a Cruise

Avital Andrews

Avital Andrews, SmarterTravel's editor-at-large, is a travel and lifestyle journalist who is also a contributing editor for AAA's Via magazine. Her stories have been among the 10 most emailed or viewed on the Los Angeles Times, Outside, Sierra, and SmarterTravel websites, and have also appeared in USA Today, HuffPost, Apple News, Business Insider, and many other nationwide outlets. Her travel book , sold at bookstores and on Amazon, is in its fourth edition, and her journalism gets national media attention, including from The New York Times , The Atlantic , Time , NPR, and MTV. She's currently working on her first children's book. Follow her on Twitter @avitalb .

The Handy Item I Always Pack: My laptop—the lightweight and stylish HP Spectre x360—since I'm almost always on deadline.

Ultimate Bucket List Experience: A round-the-world cruise that makes stops to experience Aurora Borealis, the Olympics opening ceremony, Borneo, Madagascar, the Jerusalem Festival of Light, the Bolivian salt flats, Kenya's Giraffe Manor, the Galapagos, the Maldives, Bora Bora, the Seychelles, and every Disney park. (That itinerary definitely exists, right?)

Travel Motto: I'll steal Saint Augustine's: "The world is a book, and those who do not travel read only a page."

Aisle, Window, or Middle Seat: Window, always. For the views and also the naps.

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Booking a cruise isn’t always simple. It can be a complicated, time-consuming process that involves dozens of open tabs and maybe a spreadsheet or two. But knowing the best site to book a cruise can help a lot.

And while would-be travelers are accustomed to clicking around on travel search engines to find the best deals on flights , hotels , and rental cars , many people don’t realize that they can use these same types of sites to book cruises, too.

But is there one best site to book a cruise? That depends on what you’re looking for. Sometimes the best cruise website is actually a cruise line’s own site—since technically, cruise booking websites aren’t allowed to undercut the prices that the cruise lines set.

Often, though, the best cruise search engines are indispensable for locating incredible deals, including ones that throw in booking incentives worth hundreds of dollars—in Amazon gift cards, complimentary shore excursions, onboard freebies, and so on.

To save you the hassle, SmarterTravel investigated the glutted space of cheap cruise sites to determine which are worthy of listing as the best cruise websites; below are a few that come highly recommended.

The Best Sites to Book a Cruise

• Expedia (including Travelocity and Orbitz )
• TripAdvisor

Avoya Travel

Cheapcaribbean.com, cruisedirect, cruise critic, costco travel, cruisewatch.

Expedia is an obvious first mention in a list of the best cruise booking sites, in part because it’s an absolute juggernaut (Expedia also owns Travelocity and Orbitz ). Its cruise-booking interface is simple and straightforward, only requiring you to enter your preferred sailing destination and date range, as well as how many passengers you’ll be bringing along. Then Expedia does the heavy lifting for you, with comprehensive results that make it one of the best cruise search engines.

On Expedia, it’s common to find bookable cruises for 70 percent off face value, with the ability to sort by price so the best cruise deals come up at the top of the list, saving you the scrolling. A sample search for a mid-June cruise to Alaska, for example, quickly came up with a seven-night itinerary starting at $389 per person—that’s less than $56 per person, per night for a mostly inclusive weeklong vacation.

Expedia’s cruise deals tend to come paired with other enticing offers, including steep discounts on pre-departure hotels when you book both your cruise and hotel through Expedia. There’s also a dedicated 800 number that lets you speak to Expedia’s cruise experts and, often but not always, a generous amount of onboard credit thrown in for good measure.

Best feature: Sheer search power. Expedia’s easy-to-use cruise search engine generates a useful and well-ordered list of the best cruise deals, without much effort required from the user. Also, Expedia’s prices frequently match what the cruise lines themselves offer.

Check out Expedia

Priceline is another powerhouse among cheap cruise websites. The initial interface comes off a bit clunkier than, say, Expedia’s or Kayak’s, but the tradeoff is that you can quickly search by cruise line, both standard and luxury, as well as by cruise length and departure port.

Using the seven-night Alaska example, Priceline brought up an itinerary aboard Royal Caribbean International’s Radiance of the Seas that starts at just $374 for the full week—roughly $53 per night. Hard-to-believe cruise deals like this show up on Priceline with regularity, which is part of what solidifies it as one of the best cruise websites.

Also adding to the appeal: deals exclusive to Priceline, plenty of bonus amenities (examples include $50 in onboard credit, third and fourth guests sailing free, and free specialty dinners for two), no money down to book certain sailings, frequent onboard credit sales, an 800 number to call should you need assistance while booking, and a loyalty club that’s ties in with every cruise line’s loyalty program. Priceline also lets you click a “senior discount” box if that applies to you.

Best feature: Priceline’s “ 110% Best Price Guarantee ” promises that if you find your cruise listed at a lower price on another website within 48 hours of booking, then Priceline will refund you 110 percent of the cost difference, including port charges.

Check out Priceline

Tripadvisor

Many people think of Tripadvisor mainly as a travel review site, where you go to get real talk on hotels and attractions, and to see non-glamorized photos of places as seen through actual travelers’ eyes. But Tripadvisor is also an excellent site for travel deals, including on cruises.

Tripadvisor Cruise , which launched in April 2019, is among the best websites for cruise deals—it lets you nab the lowest price by comparing more than 70,000 ocean and river cruises from some 60 of the best cruise websites. It’s got an attractive, inspiring landing page, and its newest function, “Explore Ship-tinerary pages,” lets you browse full ship profiles, details, photos, and itineraries.

Though Tripadvisor is technically a meta-search site for cruises, which means that it will send you elsewhere to actually book, its search engine lets users sort by destination, length, cruise line, and month of travel. The default search results are ordered by “best value”, unless you specifically click that you’d rather see the results organized by price, cruise length, departure date, or cruise ship. Even when you click on “price,” the lowest-priced offering doesn’t always come up first, though it only takes a few seconds of scanning to determine which itinerary has the lowest price—that seven-night Royal Caribbean International trip to Alaska came up on Tripadvisor starting at $365.

Best feature: What makes Tripadvisor one of the best sites to book a cruise? In addition to having one of the best cruise search engines, Tripadvisor lets you read other cruisers’ candid reviews of the cruise that you’re considering, so that you get the non-sugarcoated truth about each sailing.

Check out Tripadvisor

7 Things You Should Never Do on a Cruise Ship

A rarity on the internet, Avoya Travel is a family-owned company that has been dealing in travel for more than 55 years. Avoya is one of the best sites to book a cruise in part because of its patented technology that lets travelers search cruises by destination, date range, cruise line, and last-minute status—and then get matched up, in real time, with one of Avoya’s expert vacation planners, who use that algorithm to customize a cruise booking to your specific preferences. (From Avoya’s website: “…we combine the ease of online search, with the expertise and personalized service of Independent Vacation Planners, plus secure exclusive deals and extras so you get more out of every vacation.”)

Avoya’s team of staffers and wide network of independent agencies make for a cruise booking website that’s a bit different from the rest. Its front page shows the “Best Travel Deals,” which might include half-off cruise fares, onboard credit, prepaid gratuities, and free or reduced airfare.

Like several of the other best cruise websites, Avoya offers a low-price guarantee; if you book a cruise with Avoya and then find a lower rate on another website within 24 hours of booking, Avoya will refund the difference.

Best feature: Avoya offers free membership, and members get exclusive deals and discounts, access to unpublished fares, first dibs on promotions, the ability to save favorite searches, and the right to book, change, or cancel travel without incurring any Avoya fees.

Check out Avoya Travel

When looking for the best site to book a cruise, don’t be put off by CheapCaribbean.com ’s overly specific moniker. Despite the site’s name, it offers cruises all over the world. The site’s vibe is beach-oriented and a bit cheeky, with a front page that can overwhelm—but click on the “Cruises” tab, and a cleaner interface appears. There you can search by cruise line, ship, destination, departure date, and departure port.

CheapCaribbean.com offers refunds on 24-hour cancellations (within certain parameters) and a “ 110 percent best price guarantee, ” a promise that if you find a lower price on the same cruise within 48 hours of booking, the company will refund you 110 percent of the difference. The site also lists traveler reviews about each cruise ship (as supplied by Cruiseline), though the reviews often include comments about the ship’s destinations other than the one you’re considering, which isn’t entirely helpful. There’s also a live chat widget if questions come up while booking.

Best feature: Helping to make CheapCaribbean.com one of the best cruise search engines is the fact that it lets you check boxes for additional discounts, including a senior discount, discounts by state (just enter your ZIP code), and past guest discounts if you’ve previously sailed with, say, Princess, Norwegian, or Disney.

Check out CheapCaribbean.com

Its front page is clunky and sort of in your face, but CruiseDirect is still one of the best cruise sites for a variety of reasons. As a cruise-only company, CruiseDirect doesn’t deal in flights, hotels, or rental cars, allowing it to focus its full capacity on helping you find the best cruise deal possible. On the site, you can search by destination, departure port, month, length of cruise, and cruise line. There’s real-time online chat and a contact number for support from a cruise expert. If you aren’t quite ready to buy, you can “heart” cruises to save them as favorites to refer back to later.

CruiseDirect offers perks on most sailings, like onboard credit, free drinks, free Wi-Fi, free gratuities, free travel insurance, or a free specialty dining experience—check out the “Bonus” box on the cruise listing you’re considering to see what extras it comes with.

Best feature: Like some of the other cruise websites on this list, CruiseDirect offers a “ best price guarantee ,” which means that if you find a lower price on another cruise booking website within 24 hours of your initial booking, you’ll get refunded the difference. But one key difference between CruiseDirect and the other cruise sites is that you don’t have to pay the cost of your cruise up front, just a deposit—and then if your cruise fare drops before you’ve made your final payment, CruiseDirect will readjust your rate accordingly.

Check out CruiseDirect

5 Crazy Themed Cruises You Can Take in 2022 and 2023

A subsidiary of Tripadvisor, Cruise Critic has similar search results to that site, but it offers a bit more comprehensive information for seasoned cruisers who want more details before they book. Cruise Critic has tons of filters and sort options to help you find what you want, including everything from cruise line to cruise style (family cruises, luxury cruises, cruises for the disabled). Each itinerary clearly lists what is and isn’t included in the fare; Wi-Fi, alcoholic drinks, gratuities, and port taxes and fees are among the common exclusions.

Certain itineraries are marked with graphics declaring that the ship has won one of the site’s “Cruisers’ Choice” awards, denoting vessels that Cruise Critic members declare to be the among the best in categories such as cabins, entertainment, and family-friendly features.

You can sign up for price alerts, which will notify you by email when the fare on your selected itinerary drops.

Once you’re ready to book, Cruise Critic shows you a variety of offers from some of the best cruise booking sites, including bonuses such as onboard credit and prepaid gratuities. Then you click off to the site of your choice to make your purchase. Prices generally match what’s advertised on Cruise Critic.

Best feature: Under each search result is a tab for “reviews” where you can read reviews from Cruise Critic members who’ve previously traveled on the ship. On certain cruises you can click over to a full-length write-up of the ship by one of the experts on the Cruise Critic editorial team, including detailed information on dining options, cabins, entertainment, dress code, and more.

Check out Cruise Critic

When you think of Costco, you probably think of bulk food and toilet paper. But the next time you’re booking a cruise, it’ll be worthwhile to pull up Costco Travel , which is, unexpectedly, one of the best cruise websites.

The site doesn’t look fancy—it’s pretty bare-bones, visually—but the upside of going with a no-frills cruise-booking website is that Costco Travel offers extremely competitive prices, as well as some of the most attractive incentives, usually in the form of Costco Cash delivered to you after you get home from your cruise.

Though there’s no single point of contact if you need to call and discuss your cruise booking, Costco Travel’s call center is staffed with helpful agents from early morning until evening, seven days a week, and passengers can rest assured that Costco won’t go out of business before they set sail. Note that a Costco membership (starting at $60 per year) is required to book with Costco Travel, and that Costco doesn’t accept American Express.

Best feature: Rock-bottom prices—plus lots of cash back if you play your cards right: Costco Citi cardholders earn 3 percent cash back on cruise purchases, which can combine with the 2 percent Costco Reward for Costco Executive Members for a total of 5 percent back on Costco Travel’s already super low cruise rates.

Check out Costco Travel

Pondering which is the best site to book a cruise? Keep Cruisewatch in strong consideration—more than a typical cruise booking website, Cruisewatch bills itself as a “digital cruise advisor” that couples data power with personalization.

As an artificial intelligence cruise advisor, Crusewatch created technology that makes searching and booking a cruise more efficient—the first, it calls “Cruise Price Prediction.” In short, Cruisewatch collected and stored the daily price for each ship and cabin over a span of five years, resulting in millions of data points—and a massive database that informs exactly when cruise prices are lowest, and when the greatest saving potential exists.

Thanks to this comprehensive price history, Cruisewatch can predict cruise prices and drops with an accuracy rate of around 80 percent. Using the site’s cruise price prediction alerts, travelers can save up to 71 percent just by booking at the right time.

In addition to being able to predict prices, Cruisewatch tailors user search results to match their established preferences through customizable profiles and other similar features. This means you won’t waste time wading through cruises that may be cheap but don’t align with your vacation goals.

Best feature: Cruisewatch’s easy-to-set price alerts, based on tons of data, allow users to be notified in real time of the best new cruise deals the minute they come online.

Check out Cruisewatch

Book a Stay With SmarterTravel Hotels

Need a place to stay the night before you set sail? Search SmarterTravel Hotels for great accommodations in your port of call.

Some of the links featured in this story are affiliate links, and SmarterTravel may collect a commission (at no cost to you) if you shop through them.

Follow Avital Andrews on Twitter  @avitalb  or on  Facebook .

Editor’s note: Sarah Schlichter contributed to this story.

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When To Book Your Cruise, By Destination

Few things are more disappointing than going to book your dream cruise, only to find you have no options because other vacationers beat you to it. This is why it’s crucial to plan your cruise in advance -- and not all cruises are booked equally. Knowing when to book that dream cruise vacation quite often depends on the destination you want to sail to, and cruise experience you're after.

Some cruises are more scarce than others, such as one-off sailings that only operate during a particular month, or seasonal voyages like Alaska cruises or Christmas Market river cruises in Europe. Some cruises are more plentiful and are offered year-round, like Caribbean cruises -- and that means competition to sail isn't as cutthroat.

The scarcer the cruise, the further out you need to book -- and that can apply to sailings on brand-new cruise ships, too.

Here's Cruise Critic's rundown of what cruise to book, when.

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One of the hottest cruises on the market are sailings to Alaska. This incredible destination offers unique activities you may only be able to do somewhere typically cold, like Alaska, the Arctic, or Antarctica. Alaska – the most affordable of the three popular cruise locales – is a singular destination where you’ll have the chance to see glaciers and brown bears, among other memorable activities.

Alaska's cruise season is from May to October because of the region's climate, which corresponds to various wildlife activities like whale watching and salmon spawning, not to mention the weather that can be inhospitable in the winter months. Many cruise lines sail to Alaska, so you have plenty of options. But it’s one of the most popular cruise options that continues to grow in popularity. As a seasonal destination, you must act swiftly and book well in advance if you want specific dates on a certain cruise line and your preferred stateroom.

As a rule, Alaska cruises should be booked no less than six months out, if not more. For summer cruises to Alaska, which is peak season, reserve one to two years in advance, depending on when your preferred cruise line’s future dates become available. Vacationers who miss out on their ideal cruise dates for the current year must book now for next year. This is particularly true for lines like Disney Cruise Line that only base one ship in Alaska each year.

If you choose shoulder season – the time before or after peak summer season, when kids are in school – you’ll have more options than during July and August. And, if you're flexible with your preference in line or ship, a last-minute sailing can still be had -- but only if you're not married to a particular cruise line and departure date.

A Canada and New England cruise offers coastal delights like iconic lighthouses and food tours focused on fresh seafood. Many travelers – especially repeat cruisers – enjoy exploring Nova Scotia , Quebec , and ports of the northeastern United States, like Boston, Massachusetts and Bar Harbor, Maine . Summer months are ideal for Canada and New England cruises when the weather and temperatures are sublime. Book six months to one year in advance for July and August itineraries.

Another incredibly popular time of year for a cruise in this region is the start of autumn, when fall colors on the deciduous trees dazzle visitors. “Leaf peeping” season, as it’s called, is limited and hard to predict though many cruisers book for September or October, which is toward the end of the cruise season in this area. They do so hoping Mother Nature shows off during their vacation; the calculated risk may equal a huge reward, with awe-inspiring colors painting the landscape. Cruise itineraries out of Boston make for a great jumping off point for a Fall leaf peeping cruise in the northeast.

For leaf-peeping cruise times, book one year to 18 months in advance. Summer sailings usually have more availability -- unless your departure date runs over the Canada Day or Independence Day holidays, which tend to sell out sooner.

Fewer cruise ships sail to these regions than to warm destinations like the Mediterranean or Caribbean. Polar animals and dramatic landscapes will wow you, and you’ll have nearly endless daylight hours, depending on your precise sail dates, thanks to the “midnight sun.”

Cruise to the Arctic to visit Greenland, Iceland, and northern Norway. You’ll have a chance to see polar bears on Norway’s island of Svalbard and seals in Greenland.

Antarctica is the coveted “seventh continent” for world travelers, providing a singular opportunity to see penguins, impressive glaciers, and be near the South Pole.

The cruise season for the poles is opposite in the north and south. In the Arctic, it is during late spring and summer. In the southern hemisphere, it’s the opposite: Antarctica's cruise season is November through February, during winter in the Northern Hemisphere, or the Southern Hemisphere's summer. Each year, an increasing number of cruise lines offer trips to visit the polar regions. Generally speaking, though, the ships that sail here have much smaller guest capacities than mega-ships because of regulations that aim to minimize the environmental impact of tourism in the area. This means there are fewer staterooms available per ship to book -- and those that are available can command a hefty price tag.

Ideally, be prepared to book at least a year in advance, particularly for cruises to Antarctica, which tend to sell out well in advance. If you have a shorter runway between when you decide you want to book and sail, you may get lucky with some last-minute deals for cruise lines that want to fill the rooms left onboard. In this case, understand you’ll have to be flexible with your stateroom location and category, not to mention your departure date.

The most popular cruise destination is the Caribbean. Thankfully, all well-known cruise lines have ships that sail there; some even have their own islands, like Disney Cruise Line’ s Castaway Cay or Royal Caribbean ’s Perfect Day at CocoCay.

Visit Caribbean destinations like St. Thomas, St. Maarten, and the Bahamas. Snorkel, go on dolphin tours, visit a cocoa farm, or hike Caribbean mountains like the Pitons in St. Lucia. Caribbean cruises sail year-round. You need less lead time to book your preferred travel dates and cruise line for the Caribbean; the supply can keep up with the demand. However, if a cruise ship is new or the cruise line is very popular and has fewer ships, consider adding a few months to your booking lead time.

Book eight months to a year out if you want to cruise the Caribbean during spring break, summer vacation, or popular travel holidays like winter break, Memorial Day, and Labor Day.

If you sail during a less desirable time, like January after kids return to school following Christmas and New Year’s Eve, you’ll have more options closer to the sail date. For these cruises, we recommend booking two to six months in advance -- or even waiting for a good WAVE season deal to roll around.

If you’re researching European cruises, going to the Mediterranean has likely crossed your mind. You can visit countries like Greece , Croatia , and Italy along the southern coastline of Europe. Visit fabulous beaches, seaside cities, and enjoy Mediterranean cuisine.

Large and small cruise ships sail the Mediterranean. Book either option six months to one year in advance. Summer months tend to book up the earliest due to school holidays, but those may not always be the best time to visit the Mediterranean due to crowds and, frequently, excessive temperatures.

If you are trying to book a small cruise ship but limited availability isn’t yielding as many options as you want, search availability on bigger cruise lines, which have thousands of staterooms. The experience will be very different, but it will get you to the Mediterranean in the time period you want.

The green hills and beautiful cliffs of Northern Europe appeal to cruisers who wish to visit Britain, Ireland , Wales, and Scotland . Some cruises also sail to Norway , Sweden , and The Netherlands on Northern Europe itineraries.

Enjoy visiting fjords, seeing waterfalls, scenic hikes, bird watching, castle visits, and distilleries during summertime in Europe.

Summer is the season to sail Northern Europe on one of these popular cruises. Book 18 months to two years in advance if you want to sail during the peak months of July and August. If considering the months before or after, book one year out.

If you’re more flexible and are booking less than a year out, consider cruises in June and September, but know that there may be fewer sail dates. And note that an increasing number of cruise lines -- like Cunard , Fred. Olsen , Hurtigruten and Viking -- offer voyages to Northern Europe during the winter months that can often be a great deal.

Explore various countries during a Danube River cruise , which ports in interesting European destinations from Germany to Romania, spending on which portion of the Danube River you sail.

River cruise ships sail the Danube River from March through October and take a short break before sailing again after the Christmas market season -- though some, like Viking, are now offering year-round Danube river cruises.

If you want to sail on the Danube River during peak times, including sailings that extend to the Rhine to cover tulip season in The Netherlands during April and May, or summertime in Europe during June, July, or August, book one year to 18 months in advance. Book six months to a year in advance for any spring or fall Danube river cruise.

An always-popular river cruise itinerary is a Christmas markets cruise . This is due to the enjoyment they provide and seasonality, sailing at a very specific time of year to correspond to Europe’s holiday markets schedule. It’s also thanks to their uniqueness among cruise experiences worldwide.

It’s a magical time to be in Europe, with opportunities to be dazzled by glowing lights and the scents and sounds of the Christmas season in The Netherlands, Germany, Austria, Hungary, and beyond. Warm up with a mug of warm spiced wine – better known as gluhwein by locals – as you shop for souvenirs from ornaments to sweets and assorted religious keepsakes at the magical markets.

For bookings made within the same year you want to sail, secure a reservation as soon as possible, as much as ten months out. However, don’t be surprised if cruises are sold out by then or have limited availability. For the best options, book as far out as one year to 18 months in advance.

Love the idea of cruising during an incredibly special time of year with several onboard celebrations? You’re guaranteed endless fun during a Christmas and/or New Year’s Eve cruise . What better way to ring in a new year than during a cruise on the high seas?

There are finite dates for Christmas sailings and New Year’s Eve, so plan on booking at least one year to 18 months in advance. Though you’ll likely find availability in the months leading to the December dates if you decide you want to sail closer to the time period, you’ll simply have more options for cabin locations and categories if you book further out.

Start with what cruise line you ideally want to book -- but have another cruise line in mind if your preferred cruise line is at capacity. If the destination doesn’t matter to you as much as the length of this date-specific cruise, flexibility will help you land an end-of-December cruise.

Keep in mind that Christmas and New Year's sailings almost always operate at full capacity, so don't get your heart set on last-minute upgrade offers.

© 1995— 2024 , The Independent Traveler, Inc.

When is the best time to book a cruise?

The best time to book a cruise is when you've done your planning, picked a ship and found a cruise fare that fits your budget and offers good value. But that doesn't stop vacationers from wondering if they'd find a cheaper price if they wait to book tomorrow, next week or next month.

I'd love to give you a magic date to circle in red on your calendar, so you'd know for sure that was the best time to book a cruise. The truth is there's no one best day, but knowing a few things about how cruise lines price cabins and when they tend to run promotions will help you identify high-value deals. When you see one, you'll know it's as good a time as any to book your next cruise vacation.

For more cruise guides, news and tips, sign up for TPG's cruise newsletter .

What is the best day to book a cruise?

Everyone wants to know the cheapest day to book travel — as if fares drop like clockwork on Wednesday morning and rise with the sun on Thursday. It doesn't work that way.

It used to be that lines like Royal Caribbean and Carnival Cruise Line would offer midweek sales on select cruises every Tuesday or Wednesday. These lines still offer the occasional flash sale, but they don't always fall on the same day of the week.

Within a given cruise sale's promotional period, I've seen cabin prices fluctuate daily and I've seen them stay the same for a week. It all depends on how many cabins a cruise line has allocated for a specific fare class and whether those rooms happen to sell out or not.

I could tell you that it's cheaper to book a cruise at the beginning of a sale because availability is greatest. However, if the line sees a certain cabin category on a specific ship failing to sell as expected, it could drop rates halfway into the sale period.

The exception is world cruises (and other highly anticipated and publicized short-season sailings, like Great Lakes cruises ). World cruises have sold out within hours, even with price tags of $150,000 per couple.

Related: The best credit cards for booking cruises

What is the best month to book a cruise?

If there's no best day to book a cruise for the best deal, you might think there's a best month. While you can find cheap cruises any month you look, I can give you some pointers about which months are most likely to feature cruise sales with value-added promotions.

The best months to book a cruise are January through March, when nearly every cruise line launches some kind of "wave season" promotion , and November through December, when Black Friday and Cyber Monday sales often start well before Thanksgiving and end days or weeks after. You might find a cheap cruise deal or a fare packed with extras (like complimentary beverage packages, free kids fares or reduced deposits).

Are you guaranteed to find the cheapest, most freebie-laden pricing during these months? Of course not! Cruise lines sometimes inflate prices before a sale, so deals for 30% or 50% off may not be as good as you think. Or, the cruise line may offer its best fares in a one-off sale at another time of year.

Whether the winter months are the best time to book a cruise depends on which itinerary you're hoping to book and how popular that sailing is that year. In a year when Alaska cruises are popular, the wave season promotions in January and February might not be especially good because the lines don't need to discount to fill cabins. But if Alaska cruise bookings are soft, the wave season specials could be the best of the year as cruise lines pull out all the tricks to fill ships.

Related: How to book a cruise with points and miles

What is the best time of year to book a cruise?

I could say that winter is the best time of year to book a cruise because that would cover the late-fall Thanksgiving week sales and wave season promotions. I can guarantee that your cruise line will offer some promotions during the winter, but that doesn't mean it's the best time to book.

If you want to book a solo or family cabin on a Mediterranean cruise in July, you likely want to book much earlier than January for the most availability and the best prices. As I said earlier, great sales and deals can pop up year-round, including on other holidays such as Memorial Day and the Fourth of July.

How far in advance should I book a cruise?

All this talk of the best time to book a cruise raises the question of how far in advance you should book. The key to the answer is recognizing that cruise lines adjust pricing as cabins sell out (or fail to do so) on any given ship and itinerary.

Cruise lines want you to book as early as possible. Not only do they get cash in hand sooner, in the form of your deposit, but they can rest easy when a ship sells out early, knowing they don't have to work to get people to come on board and spend more money.

Therefore, cruise lines often offer their best fares when bookings open to incentivize travelers to book early. Cruises open for bookings a year or more in advance. For example, as of March 2023, I can book a cruise on Norwegian Cruise Line through spring or fall of 2025, depending on the ship.

Related: 15 ways that cruising newbies waste money on ships

Now, it might be the itinerary I'm looking at won't be popular, and the cruise line will lower the fare closer to sailing. Or, the itinerary will sell well, and prices will only go up from the original price. I can't know for sure, though I can guess that peak-season trips to popular destinations on a newer cruise ship are more likely to sell quickly. Christmas and New Year's cruises , top suites and limited specialty cabins (such as solo and family cabins ) also tend to sell out early.

If you ask me, the answer to "How far in advance should I book a cruise?" is as early as possible for the most popular cruises and cabin categories and at least nine months before most sailings.

Can I book a cruise at the last minute?

Yes, you can book a cruise at the last minute, but that doesn't mean you should.

In the cruise industry, a last-minute booking is considered any cruise purchased after final payment is due, generally 60 to 90 days before sailing. That means you have to pay the entire cruise fare at the time of booking rather than paying a deposit and the rest at a later date.

The final payment date is a day of reckoning for cruise salespeople. It's the last date that undecided travelers can cancel without penalty. Once final payment is due, the cruise line has a more accurate picture of who is likely to sail (since once you pay, you're likely to go, barring an emergency). At that point, the line can see if the ship is comfortably full (meaning it can hold prices steady or raise them because it's not worried about filling the ship) or is too empty (meaning it better run some promotions to get more folks in cabins).

If it's the latter, that's when you get last-minute deals on cruise ships with unsold cabins. However, even if that last-minute cruise is cheap, the 11th-hour airfare or pre-cruise hotel booking could eat into your savings.

For the real procrastinators out there, the absolute last day you can book a cruise before its departure has changed over the years. Currently, a cruise line could accept a booking mere hours before sailing, as long as boarding is still open and the ship's manifest (the list of passengers and crew members on board) has not been submitted to the authorities.

In actuality, most cruise lines will sell available cabins through the day before sailing, but limit or deny same-day bookings. Depending on the line, you may only be able to book cruises within a day or two of departure directly with the cruise line's reservations department.

Booking a cruise just days before sailing should only be attempted by travelers within an easy drive of the cruise port. You should also make sure that you have time to get any necessary documentation, as well as make related travel plans.

How do I know if I'm getting a good deal when I book?

Regardless of when you're booking a cruise, you'll want to know if the fare you're paying for your vacation at sea is a cheap deal, average or overpriced. Sadly, the best way to know that is to do your research.

Tracking prices allows you to watch the rise and fall of cruise fares over time, so when the fare drops, you'll recognize the price as a deal and be able to pounce on it. This strategy is best if you plan to book early and aren't as concerned about the ship selling out immediately.

Don't forget to watch for value-added promotions, as well. For example, Norwegian's Free at Sea promotion currently includes six booking perks (free beverage package, shore excursion credit, specialty dining, Wi-Fi, extra guests and buy-one-get-one-free airfare).

If that sounds like too much math homework, I recommend that you call a travel agent . A cruise-knowledgeable travel adviser can help you plan your trip and determine if the current pricing is good or if you should hold out for a deal.

Bottom line

I'll say it again: The best time to book a cruise is when you see a price and promotion that seems like a good value to you. If you feel like you're getting your money's worth on a cruise purchase, go ahead and book that dream vacation. There's no way to be absolutely sure you're buying when the cruise fare is the lowest possible price with the maximum number of fare inclusions.

Sometimes you may be forced to choose between the cheapest possible fare and one that offers a greater total value, given the included perks. Knowing when cruise lines will likely run promotions will help you strategize, but sales can pop up anytime — and not every promotion offers the cheapest fares.

Stop trying to game the system and focus instead on planning the perfect cruise vacation you and your loved ones will reminisce about long after you've forgotten how much you paid for the trip.

Planning a cruise? Start with these stories:

• The 5 most desirable cabin locations on any cruise ship
• A beginners guide to picking a cruise line
• 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
• 15 ways cruisers waste money
• 15 best cruise ships for people who never want to grow up
• The ultimate guide to what to pack for a cruise

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Take luxury to a whole new level with Sanctuary Collection SM . When you book a Sanctuary Suite, Sanctuary Mini-Suite or Sanctuary Balcony, you’ll access an entirely new world of bespoke amenities, private spaces and premium service – the very best of all we have to offer. The all-new Sanctuary Collection debuts this October when Sun Princess® begins sailing from Fort Lauderdale and opens on Star Princess® in the fall of 2025.

Welcome to a world of luxury

Exclusive access to the sanctuary club.

This tranquil top-deck space is reserved exclusively for adults (ages 16+). Spend the day in total bliss as you relax poolside with a craft cocktail. Order some bites and beverages from a custom menu, even find your flow with wellness classes. Here, it’s Zen time any time. Especially when you reserve a private cabana.

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Reserved exclusively for Sanctuary Collection SM guests. Enjoy a custom chef’s menu and dedicated waitstaff and dining room. No reservations needed and no waiting — elevated dining is ready whenever you are.

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Sanctuary Collection guests enjoy our highest-level all-inclusive package with multi-device Wi-Fi, crew appreciation, premium spirits and an expertly curated wine list that pairs perfectly with any occasion. Premier also includes specialty dining, unlimited casual dining, even reserved theater seating for production shows

Premium amenities & service

Personalized service, bespoke amenities, exclusive wellness activities and special events. Enjoy it all. And if you’re a Sanctuary Suite guest, you’ll have exclusive access to the Suite Lounge, perfect for sipping your morning coffee, a daytime retreat or even kickstarting your night.

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Sanctuary suites.

Our suites offer some of the most luxurious accommodations at sea, with spacious staterooms, large balconies, and spectacular views. Additionally, guests can enjoy a variety of amenities such as priority services, specialty dining, in-room Lavazza coffee maker, mini-bar set-up, access to the Suite Lounge, and more. You’ll also enjoy our highest-level all-inclusive package, Princess Premier.

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Experience Sanctuary Collection luxury with premium-location mini-suites.  Enjoy elevated service, a complimentary bottle of bubbly upon embarkation, upgraded amenities, private restaurant, access to the Sanctuary Club, and more. You’ll also enjoy our highest-level all-inclusive package, Princess Premier.

Sanctuary Balconies

Enjoy stunning views from your premium balcony stateroom, complete with larger balcony, upgraded amenities, access to a private restaurant and the Sanctuary Club top deck as well our Princess Premier® package included.

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Transatlantic, book now on sun princess® or star princess®, and look forward to the exclusive world that awaits you., sanctuary collection frequently asked questions (faq).

What is Sanctuary Collection SM  on Princess?

Princess’ new Sanctuary Collection is designed as an oceangoing oasis that elevates the art of relaxation and serenity with exclusive, next-level accommodations and benefits.  Sanctuary Collection staterooms and experience will debut in October of 2024 on Sun Princess (R) and on her sister ship, Star Princess (R) when she enters service in 2025.

Sanctuary Collection staterooms replace the former Signature Collection and Reserve Collection Staterooms on Sun and Star Princess and offer an entirely new world of bespoke amenities, private spaces and premium service – the very best of all we have to offer. Whether our guests are new to cruising or longtime Princess enthusiasts, the Sanctuary Collection offers a one-of-a-kind experience. 

Sanctuary Collection guests receive exclusive benefits and services such as a private restaurant, access to the Sanctuary Club top deck, the perks of Princess Premier®*, and a luxurious stateroom experience.

Also included with a Sanctuary Collection booking are all offerings available within the Princess Premier® bundle, such as:  

• Premier Beverage Package (drinks up to $20 each) 
• MedallionNet Wi-Fi for four devices 
• Unlimited Juice Bar 
• Unlimited Fitness Classes 
• Two Specialty Dining Experiences 
• Unlimited Casual Dining Meals and Premium Desserts 
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Is Sanctuary Collection only on Sun and Star Princess or fleetwide?

Sanctuary Collection staterooms are only available on Sun and Star Princess.

Guests who as of April 23rd, 2024, have already reserved staterooms in the Sanctuary Collection eligible section of either Sun or Star Princess will receive the additional benefits outlined at no additional cost, except the Princess Premier (R) package. If your current booking does not include Premier, you may upgrade to Premier to receive all these benefits.

Sanctuary Collection guests are provided with private access to the Sanctuary Club top pool area, accessible via their Princess Medallion.

All guests can book an available Sanctuary Collection stateroom. However, guests must be aged 16+ to gain access to the exclusive Sanctuary Club on the top deck.

The Sanctuary Collection staterooms include all Suites, select Mini-Suites and select balconies and are in various areas throughout Decks 10-17, along with access to the Sanctuary Club on Deck 18.

Sanctuary Collection staterooms on Sun Princess and Star Princess go on sale April 23 for sailings after October 14, 2024 beginning in the Caribbean season on Sun Princess and at launch on Star Princess in Fall of 2025.

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The 7 best 3-day cruise itineraries for 2024.

Plan a long weekend getaway aboard a cruise for fun, scenery and entertainment.

The Best 3-Day Cruise Itineraries

Courtesy of Carnival Cruise Line

Hop aboard the Carnival Radiance for a short but fun-filled cruise weekend.

Whether you're short on vacation days or you only have a long weekend to spare, three-night cruises offer a fun and affordable way to get a change of scenery. These shorter sailings from the U.S. often amount to a weekend cruise and only depart from Florida and California for now. However, short cruises still let you dine and dance on board, enjoy world-class entertainment, and visit nearby destinations like Nassau in the Bahamas; Key West, Florida; or Ensenada, Mexico.

If you're looking for short cruises that pack a lot of good times into a weekend vacation, you should know that many cruise lines offer these trips, including Norwegian Cruise Line, MSC Cruises, Royal Caribbean International and Celebrity Cruises. Read on to find out which short cruises we recommend, where they depart from, and everything you can see and do over the span of three incredible nights.

3-Day Cruises From Florida

Norwegian sky from miami.

Courtesy of Norwegian Cruise Line

Dates: Aug. 2 to 5, 2024

Departure port: Miami

Stops: Key West, Florida; Great Stirrup Cay, Bahamas

Starting price: $399 per person

This three-night cruise on Norwegian Sky departs from Miami in August 2024 with stops at two iconic tropical destinations. The vessel's first stop is Key West , where cruise passengers will have the day to visit the southernmost tip of the United States, book a snorkeling or kayaking tour, or bar hop along the world-famous Duval Street. From there, the cruise stops at Great Stirrup Cay in the Bahamas, which is a private island paradise that's only for cruise passengers. Here, visitors can enjoy some beach time, plan a WaveRunner adventure or snorkel the clear waters to watch out for wildlife.

When not at port, passengers on Norwegian Sky can enjoy the ship's 10 dining options, onboard spa, casino at sea, and variety of pools and hot tubs. The Norwegian Cruise Line vessel even has a sushi bar and a Starbucks onboard, and it was completely renovated from top to bottom in 2019.

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

MSC Seashore from Port Canaveral

Conrad Schutt | Courtesy of MSC Cruises

Dates: Multiple dates in November and December 2024

Departure port: Port Canaveral, Florida (Orlando)

Stops: Nassau and Ocean Cay Marine Reserve, Bahamas

Starting price: $169 per person

This three-night cruise on MSC Seashore departs from Port Canaveral near Orlando and takes passengers to two tropical destinations in the nearby Bahamas . The first is the island of Nassau, which is known for its luxury resorts (including the exclusive Atlantis Paradise Island Bahamas), huge casinos and powder white sands. After that, guests can spend a second day at port at MSC Cruises ' private island, Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve. This island offers a perfect beach retreat for people who just want to relax, including several expansive white sand beaches with ample seating, an interior ocean lagoon for swimming, and beach bars and eateries dotted throughout.

MSC Seashore features huge pools, an onboard water park for kids, the expansive MSC Aurea Spa and 11 distinct dining venues for passengers to choose from. The ship also boasts the exclusive "ship within a ship" Yacht Club area, which offers the best of everything for discerning guests.

Find an MSC Cruises deal on GoToSea.

Celebrity Reflection from Fort Lauderdale

Courtesy of Celebrity Cruises

Dates: Ongoing in 2024

Departure port: Fort Lauderdale, Florida

Stops: Perfect Day at CocoCay and Nassau, Bahamas

Starting price: $273 per person

This three-night cruise on Celebrity Cruises ' Celebrity Reflection departs from Fort Lauderdale and leaves for two days in the sunny Bahamas. The first stop gives guests a full day to enjoy at Perfect Day at CocoCay, a cruise line private island that's typically reserved for Royal Caribbean guests. This island paradise features an exclusive beach club, idyllic white sand beaches for swimming and floating, a water park, a zip line, and plenty of places to eat and drink all day. The next stop is Nassau: Visitors can dine and shop their way through the port area or book a fun day pass to the Baha Bay water park, which is located at resort Baha Mar and features waterslides, an expansive lazy river and incredible cuisine options right at the park.

Celebrity Reflection was recently refurbished in 2022. It features an incredible array of included dining options, eight specialty and exclusive dining establishments, and bars and lounges throughout the ship. The Retreat, a VIP ship-within-a-ship concept, is also offered on board for those who want an elevated cruising experience.

Explore Celebrity Cruises on GoToSea.

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Disney Dream from Fort Lauderdale

Courtesy of Disney Cruise Line

Dates: Nov. 6 to 9, 2024

Stops: Disney Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point and Disney Castaway Cay, Bahamas

Starting price: $1,973 per stateroom

This three-night Bahamian cruise on Disney Dream stops at two exclusive destinations in the Bahamas – Disney Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point, then Disney Castaway Cay. The first stop offers incredible beaches with play areas and crystal-clear water for swimming, as well as the Bahamian Arts and Culture Pavilion for families who want to learn something about the local culture on vacation. At Disney Castaway Cay, families can relax the day away on white sand beaches, go biking or kayaking, ride two waterslides, and more. Both destinations even have adults-only beach areas for cruisers who are traveling kid-free.

Disney Dream holds a maximum of 4,000 passengers and has everything you would expect on an exclusive Disney Cruise Line vessel, including kids and family areas, adults-only dining options and pools, and two large theaters. The ship also has several supervised kids clubs as well as dedicated clubs for teenagers and tweens .

Read: The Top Cruises for Babies and Toddlers

Liberty of the Seas from Fort Lauderdale

Courtesy of Royal Caribbean International

Stops: Nassau and Perfect Day at CocoCay, Bahamas

Starting price: $263 per person

Royal Caribbean International also boasts a Bahamas cruise from Fort Lauderdale that stops in Nassau and at the line's private island, Perfect Day at CocoCay. In Nassau, cruisers get the chance to explore one of the most popular cruise ports throughout the Caribbean, where you can book an excursion to a local beach, plan a snorkeling adventure or play in one of the two biggest casinos throughout the region at Atlantis or Baha Mar. At Perfect Day at CocoCay, families can stay active with waterslides, book a kayaking tour or ride a hot air balloon up to 450 feet in the air.

Liberty of the Seas is also an ideal ship for families thanks to fun features like a huge onboard water park with slides, an ice skating rink with shows and the Broadway at Sea theater. The Royal Caribbean vessel also has nearly a dozen different dining venues, including Cupcake Cupboard, Johnny Rockets, a pizza kitchen and an old-world Italian eatery called Giovanni's Table.

Compare Royal Caribbean International cruises on GoToSea.

3-Day Cruises From California

Navigator of the seas from los angeles.

Dates: Throughout 2024

Departure port: Los Angeles

Stops: Ensenada, Mexico

Starting price: $282 per person

Royal Caribbean offers a three-night West Coast adventure on Navigator of the Seas that includes a fun day at sea and a full-day stop in Ensenada, Mexico. This Mexican destination is known for the many activities that can be enjoyed along its rugged shores, which can include leisurely days at nearby Estero and Mona Lisa beaches, hiking experiences, exploration of Baja California's wine region, whale watching and more.

Dates for this sailing are offered throughout 2024, and the ship itself has plenty to keep passengers enthralled while at sea. For example, Navigator of the Seas features the longest waterslide at sea, enlarged pool deck areas for relaxation, ice skating shows and shopping – not to mention Broadway-style shows with dancers, acrobats and singers. There are also 12 unique dining options onboard, including Starbucks, Jamie's Italian by Jamie Oliver and Johnny Rockets.

Carnival Radiance from Los Angeles

Dates: Jan. 26 to 29 and Sept. 24 to 27, 2024

Departure port: Long Beach (Los Angeles)

Starting price: $244 per person

Carnival Radiance also embarks on three-night journeys to Mexico from Los Angeles throughout the year, including in January and September 2024. This Carnival Cruise Line itinerary includes a fun day at sea and a stop in Ensenada, Mexico, where passengers can plan a sightseeing trip, nosh on the unique Baja cuisine the area is known for, shop for silver jewelry and other keepsakes, or spend the day relaxing on the beach.

Carnival Radiance itself serves as the perfect floating vessel for this fun weekend vacation, with onboard amenities that span the Cloud 9 Spa and WaterWorks water park with slides to a comedy club and special clubs for kids and teens. The ship also boasts an adults-only solarium and 10 different bars to choose from.

Book a Carnival cruise on GoToSea.

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Holly Johnson is a professional travel writer and cruise expert who has covered family travel and cruises for more than a decade. She has cruised more than 40 times across most of the major cruise lines in destinations throughout the Caribbean, Europe and the Middle East. Johnson used her personal experience and research expertise to curate the itineraries for this article.

You might also be interested in:

• Cruise Packing List
• Beach Packing List
• Cruise Drink Packages: Your Options by Cruise Line
• First-Time Cruise Tips
• The Best Cruise Insurance Plans

Tags: Travel , Cruises

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