11 Expert Tips to Find the Best Cruise Deals

From booking during wave season to taking advantage of repositioning cruises, these strategies can help you save on your next sailing.

Published on Feb. 21, 2026

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Cruising has become increasingly popular in recent years, but finding great cruise deals is not as difficult as it may seem. Travel experts share their top tips to help travelers snag the best deals, including booking during wave season, using a travel advisor, traveling during shoulder or low seasons, being flexible with dates and itineraries, booking early or last-minute, sticking with one cruise line, cruising with a group, and taking advantage of repositioning cruises and bundled packages.

Why it matters

With high demand for cruises, travelers need to be strategic to find the most value-packed offers. These expert tips can help cruisers save money while still enjoying their perfect sailing.

The details

During the first three months of the year, known as wave season, many cruise lines release their best deals and promotions. Travel advisors can also help navigate the overwhelming number of options and find the right cruise for the best value. Traveling during shoulder or low seasons, being flexible with dates and itineraries, and booking early or last-minute can all lead to significant savings. Loyalty programs, group bookings, repositioning cruises, and bundled packages with added perks are other ways to score cruise deals.

  • Wave season runs from January through March.
  • Shoulder and low seasons for Alaskan cruises are May and September, while European river cruises have lower demand in March, October, and November.

The players

Rob Clabbers

A Travel + Leisure Advisory Board Member who provides expert insights on finding the best cruise deals.

Mary Curry

A T+L A-List travel advisor specializing in small ship cruises.

Ashton Palmer

A T+L A-List travel advisor who specializes in expedition sailings.

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What they’re saying

“The lowest fare is only a deal if it is the right cruise for you.”

— Rob Clabbers, Travel + Leisure Advisory Board Member (Travel + Leisure)

“All these options and special offers can be confusing, and a qualified travel advisor who knows their way around cruises may help you find the best deal.”

— Rob Clabbers, Travel + Leisure Advisory Board Member (Travel + Leisure)

“While the weather may not be at its peak, neither are the crowds. If your main interest is visiting cultural attractions and museums or exploring cities, rather than baking on a beach, fewer fellow travelers make for a much more enjoyable experience.”

— Rob Clabbers, Travel + Leisure Advisory Board Member (Travel + Leisure)

“I can't tell you how many travelers are hoping for a 'waived single supplement' or 'two-for-one' offer and then restrict themselves to only the peak dates for that region.”

— Mary Curry, T+L A-List travel advisor (Travel + Leisure)

“If you are flexible and can travel 90 days or less before departure, cruise lines will sometimes extend discounts.”

— Ashton Palmer, T+L A-List travel advisor (Travel + Leisure)

The takeaway

By taking advantage of wave season deals, using a travel advisor, being flexible with dates and itineraries, and exploring options like repositioning cruises and bundled packages, travelers can find significant savings on their next cruise vacation.