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Buying Unsold Cruise Cabins and What Happens to Them

If you have done some research on getting unsold cruise cabins a week or two before a cruise, it’s probably because you are hoping to score a ridiculous deal on your cruise stateroom.

I have read some reports of people being able to book a cruise 48 hours before the cruise date, but technically this is not supposed to happen and you should not expect to be able to book a cruise this close to the cruise date.

Related:  How to avoid spending an extra penny on board a cruise ship

So what happens to all those unsold cruise cabins?

Cruise lines try to sell them as fast as they can.  But with cruising becoming more and more popular with vacationers there are fewer instances of cruise ships having vast amounts of cruise staterooms to unload to the public.  In fact, if you wait too long to try to get a last minute deal, hoping to grab an unsold cruise cabin, you may find yourself not being able to get a room at all.

If some cabins are still unsold before a cruise, some passengers might get a call from the cruise line offering a discounted upgrade to a higher category cabin.  They do this to both cut their losses on the rooms and to also try to get you hooked on that higher category stateroom.   And often…. it works. But what a cruise line does with the unsold cruise cabins depends on a few factors.

Even if some cabins are empty a cruise line may not be able to sell them to you

A cruise ship is considered at full capacity when there are twice as many people as cabins on the ship.  Since a portion of cabins can house more than 2 passengers, many cruise ships operate at over 100% capacity. The target goal for cruise lines is around 107% capacity.

One thing a cruise ship is not allowed to do is have more passengers than their lifeboats can hold.  So that’s why some cruise ships will have empty staterooms even if they are not offering any more cabins for sale.

Why do some cabins magically become available before a cruise?

Travel agents have the ability to hold a certain amount of cabins on a cruise ship.  If some of their customers cancel or do not put down their deposit, these cabins will become available to everyone else.  The same goes for people who book a cruise online but do not pay their deposit on time.  When that date passes without the deposit being paid, those cabins show up as available inventory.  Cabins may also appear around the date of final payment due to some canceling their cruise.

Things to consider when looking for unsold cruise cabins

By waiting to see what cabins are unsold when booking a cruise you are also taking a risk here.  You could easily end up with the stateroom in a noisy area or a highly undesirable location.  Of course there is always a chance you could end up with a very nice cabin, but it’s a bit of a gamble.

Related: Check out our post on the cheapest times of year to take a cruise .

How to find those unsold rooms on a cruise ship

There are a couple of ways you can go about this.  If you are on a cruise line’s email list you may get a message about last minute deals for particular ships.  You can also visit their websites every day and multiple times a day, because yes, the prices can change that fast.  Quite a few travel agencies also offer email newsletters with some of the best deals on these unsold cabins for last minute cruisers.

A note on price-control

Some cruise lines have implemented tight price-controls in recent years.  This means that even travel agents aren’t allowed to sell the cabins for less than what the cruise line states.  Some will offer on-ship credit to still give you a good deal, but certain price-controls have made it more difficult to find those bargain basement prices. Even in this tough economy cruise ships are leaving their ports at 100% capacity.

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Check the really cheap boat tours that offer a very low price but require a few hours of sales pitches for timeshares. Just don’t get sucked into a timeshare. They have high maintenance fees and cost a lot to get out. The boat is not luxurious, but you get free meals, a hotel stay and a chance to tour the destination–often in the Bahamas. If you don’t know how to find such a tour, then ask friends, because many receive phone or mail offers.

Hey was curious if you could elaborate how you were able to redeem the new deals if you had aleady booked? Just hoping you could explain a little more so I could get a good deal on my first cruise. Thank you

If you already made the final payment then it’s more than likely too late to score a better deal, with some exceptions. Some cruise lines, like Carnival, will offer price drop protection up to 2 weeks of the final sailing date. If you book through a cruise travel agent they can take care of this for you. Otherwise you can contact the cruise line and request an adjustment. Hope this helps.

I did the same in 2012 my Mediterranean cruise whent from $2500 to $1250, paid my air fare.

There is no “3” day requirement. Federal law requires the submission of the manifest one hour prior to sailing. That is why you must be checked in one hour prior to sailaway. Unlike the airlines, the cruiselines are not able to add someone to the manifest once it is submitted.

I have booked the day before the cruise. You have to go through the cruiseline directly to purchase it. Once at the pier, they may have to call in to Miami to verify the booking.

I guess my the biggest mystery is this…. if they have 15 cabins open for max 2 capacity, why do they shut it off for families of 3? Why not sell one and remove one if it’s really close?

The article emphasizes checking prices daily…sometimes more than once per day…because fares change that fast. It’s absolutely true. I booked a Bermuda cruise and kept watching the price. When I checked the fare in the morning it dropped $90 per person, so I took advantage of the price drop. Then I checked again after lunch and it had dropped again, this time by $40 per person. Not a huge price drop, but eighty bucks is eighty bucks. Then, about a week later, it dropped again AND a free booze package was offered fleetwide. So, just by watching often I scored price drops that brought my fare down over $250 and free booze. Watch prices and book early.

Make sure your profile with each cruise line you travel, says that you are willing to take upgrades when they are available. I was surprised when I checked my profile with one of the cruise lines we travel quite extensively, that it showed I wasn’t interested in free upgrades.

Sometimes getting an upgrade can backfire on you. I was “upgraded” from a cabin mid-ship to a higher category, 4 cabins from the front of the ship. It was very rough up in the bow of the ship. Since then, I have declined “upgrades” so that I know I am getting a cabin in a location I will be happy with.

I am trying to get a solo deal to hawaii in august or september?

keep calling

This is a great article!! I waited until the very last minute and booked my last cruise. I got a really great price; but my cabin was on the first deck right by the engines! The price I paid was so good; that I had to go. My cabin-steward bought me some ear-plugs and problem solved. I only paid $400 for a 5 night Thanksgiving cruise!!!!!!!

I forgot to state that for $400; I had a solo cabin!

Did you book it through travel agent? Or cruise line directly? I have been looking for a week and prices are still the same. Even thou the cruise ship leaves tomorrow .

Did you wind up booking?

Send me tips and information

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Onboard Experience

Finding deals on unsold cruise cabins: tips and strategies.

Key Takeaways

• Booking early increases the chances of getting the desired cruise experience.
• Flexibility with travel dates, ships, and cabin locations increases the chance of finding deals.
• Guarantee cabins can be a gamble, but they help cruise lines fill unwanted cabins.
• Strategies can be employed to target sailings and look for promotions.

What to Look For

Best Booking Practices

Strategies and tips.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do cruise lines determine which cabins are considered "unsold", are there any risks or disadvantages to booking an unsold cabin, can i negotiate the price of an unsold cabin with the cruise line, are there any specific times of the year when cruise lines are more likely to offer deals on unsold cabins, are there any additional fees or charges associated with booking an unsold cabin.

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From a young age, Asra was drawn to the power of words and their ability to transport readers to far-off lands and magical realms. Her fascination with travel and cultures from around the globe fueled her desire to become a travel writer, and she set out on a journey to turn her dreams into reality.

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Meet Asra, a talented and adventurous writer who infuses her passion for exploration into every word she writes. Asra’s love for storytelling and her insatiable curiosity about the world make her an invaluable asset to the Voyager Info team. From a young age, Asra was drawn to the power of words and their ability to transport readers to far-off lands and magical realms. Her fascination with travel and cultures from around the globe fueled her desire to become a travel writer, and she set out on a journey to turn her dreams into reality.

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What to wear on a cruise in december.

• Research the weather conditions before packing and pack lightweight clothing for warm temperatures.
• Check the cruise ship’s dress code and plan attire accordingly, considering formal nights, casual evenings, and themed parties.
• Pack swimwear and beach accessories, including a wide-brimmed hat and stylish cover-up.
• Bring comfortable shoes for exploring, sandals or flip-flops for lounging, and dressier shoes for formal nights.

Consider the Weather Conditions

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Bon voyage!

Alfons is the visionary leader and driving force behind Voyager Info’s success. As the Editor in Chief, he brings a wealth of experience and an unwavering passion for travel to the helm of our cruise-centric platform.

With a lifelong fascination for exploring new horizons, Alfons discovered his love for the ocean and cruising at a young age. From sailing across pristine Caribbean waters to embarking on daring expeditions to far-flung destinations, he has amassed a treasure trove of first-hand experiences in the world of cruising.

What To Wear On A Celebrity Cruise

• Understanding the ship’s dress code guidelines is important for a sophisticated atmosphere on a celebrity cruise.
• There are three key dressing guidelines: formal nights, smart casual, and resort casual.
• Men should wear tuxedos or dark suits on formal nights, and women should wear elegant evening gowns or cocktail dresses.
• For smart casual attire, men should wear slacks or khakis with a collared shirt, and women should wear dresses, skirts, or dressy pants with a blouse or sweater.

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• Have all necessary travel documents ready, including a valid passport with at least 6 months validity after the cruise ends.
• Check visa requirements for the destination and apply if necessary.
• If a passport is not available, a government-issued birth certificate along with a valid photo ID can be accepted.
• Complete the online check-in process before the departure date to save time at the port.

Understand the Carnival Cruise Policy Regarding Guest Changes

Contact Carnival Cruise Customer Service

Provide the necessary information for the guest change.

Pay any Applicable Fees or Charges

Confirm the changes with carnival cruise, update any additional reservations or services, communicate the changes to the new guest.

• Inform them about any new services or reservations that have been added to enhance their cruise experience.
• Highlight any changes in itinerary, such as new ports of call or updated activities.
• Explain any modifications to dining arrangements or special requests they may have made.
• Provide them with updated information regarding onboard amenities and entertainment options.
• Remind them to review the updated guest information and complete any necessary pre-cruise documentation.

Ensure the New Guest Has all the Required Travel Documents

Prepare for the check-in process.

• Make sure you have all required travel documents handy, such as your passport, identification, and necessary visas.
• Check the cruise line’s website or contact customer service to confirm the specific documents needed for your cruise.

Enjoy Your Carnival Cruise with the New Guest

What is the cancellation policy for changing a guest on a carnival cruise, can i change the guest on my carnival cruise reservation online, is there a deadline for making changes to the guest on my carnival cruise reservation, how long does it typically take for carnival cruise customer service to process a guest change, are there any restrictions or limitations on changing the guest on a carnival cruise reservation.

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Unsold Cabins, Free Cruise Upgrades

Tips on how to get unsold cruise cabins at a huge discount, why stateroom upgrades are so very special deals, and how to get a free upgrade on a cruise - all these secrets are revealed here.

Cruise upgrades deals = unsold staterooms at a huge discount

All cruise upgrades are discount deals - simply because you get more for less. Great prices are not all you can get from travel deals. To travel by a cruise ship means exotic adventures to most interesting places, gourmet cuisine, huge variety of onboard activities, accommodations (as categories, types, and amenities), unique experiences on city tours, exciting shore excursions, meeting new people, making new friends. For many travelers, it's the overall value that counts, and not the price alone. For many, but definitely not for all.

The main reasons for free cruise upgrades to be offered are two - the worldwide recession and huge overcapacity in the travel industry. With late deals, you can book a cabin for up to 80% off list prices. But if you're booked already, there's a real chance for you to get a cabin upgrade for absolutely free or at a hugely discounted price - because there are still some unsold cabins on your ship.

Unsold cruise cabins on big-cheap shipping companies

The "really big players" on the travel market are large travel agency from the category of "wholeseller - megaseller". They buy more cabins - to buy cheap cabins and resell them at a huge profit. Advance booking, volume discounts and not paying commissions means getting the cheapest prices possible. In most cases, travel agencies have the option to return unsold staterooms to the line/operator by a certain date. However, some of the cabins are bought in bulk - and are non-refundable. These deals offer the biggest discounts from the cruise lines. Generally, whole-sellers sell cabins to travel agencies/agents. But often they also sell to end consumers - thus avoiding paying a commission to the travel agency.

The free cabin upgrade is often more luck than anything else - meaning to be at the right voyage at the right time. But several tips can significantly improve the chances of getting an upgrade - for free or at a huge discount. Some of the best promo specials offer bonuses and perks, but free cabin upgrades are probably the best gift you can get from them. Cheap prices for luxury and style is a great perk! The place that you use mainly for sleeping isn't the Achilles' heel of your sea vacation. However, if you insist on both paying like Cinderella and sailing like the prince, a cabin upgrade is the option you should definitely look for.

10 tips on how to get a free upgrade on a cruise

The world's best passenger ships have accommodations in many categories (the main types are Inside-Oceanview-Balcony-Suite) featuring different interiors, amenities, locations - and booking prices. A cabin upgrade for free is only a chance, but several tips may push your luck in the right direction:

• To get a free cabin upgrade means you're relocated to a stateroom in a better category/deck location than the one you booked. Generally, it offers a room with a better location (on a higher deck, mid-ship, replacing your "obstructed view" cabin, etc). An upgrade at absolutely no additional cost is more like a happy dream - the better word for this kind of deal is "upsell" - an upgrade for a reduced cost.
• Early booking - lines sell both the cheapest and the most expensive accommodations first. If later on there's high demand for your category, a chance for a tempting cabin upgrade may appear.
• Last-minute offers - do not include cabin upgrades, but are a great discount option. For a sea voyage with less time at sea, and more ports of call and/or land tours, the importance of the stateroom category is rather lesser.
• Lower rates by loyalty programs, i.e. - for regular customers of a particular brand/company. In such a case, a cabin upgrade may be one of the bonus amenities (depending on the number of days you've sailed with the line).
• Book a free cabin upgrade promotion - lines occasionally offer special promos in which 2 different grades are priced equally - so if you book the usually more expensive room at the lower-room cost, you're basically getting a free upgrade (as an example - an oceanview at inside cabin rates or a balcony for oceanview prices).
• Cabin upgrade deals may be used as a hook-tactic to improve your first impressions - either of the particular line or for the ship experience in general.
• Skilled travel agent - a travel agency, as a rule, book whole blocks of cabins, and if a higher category is left unsold they may offer you a free upgrade. Be careful with the "new cabin" location - an upgrade that puts you right under the Main Dining Room, or near the disco, lifts and other noisy places on the ship is actually a downgrade.
• Cheap deals by added value - book not a cabin with a specific location on the ship, but a stateroom category (the so-called "guaranteed cabins"). This option promises accommodation in the desired category OR HIGHER - great chances for a free upgrade.
• Pick the right destination - in its low season. Alaska, Caribbean, and other popular sea ship vacation destinations offer good chances for free cabin upgrades and hugely discounted rates during their low and off-seasons. If your off-peak sailing isn't full and the line decreases fares to boost bookings, that's a very good time for a free upgrade. Note: for some destinations, low seasons include the months of May and September (Alaska), September through November (Caribbean), early January and May (Mexico Riviera).
• Always ask about it - it's a gambling chance, but what do you have to lose?

If the size of your stateroom affects seriously your sailing style, you should consider the option of booking a "serious" category and lowering the overall expenses by walking some of the trudged paths: group booking, relocation deals, member discount programs, less onboard spending, less attractive itineraries, limited or no land tours/shore excursions, and/or the solo traveling option.

NCL cabin upgrades

In February 2017, NCL-Norwegian started a new (industry's first) cabin upgrade program that allows already booked passengers to bid for upgrades to higher-category staterooms.

• "Norwegian Upgrade Advantage" program was tested and approved by top travel agencies. The entire system is automated and doesn't require travel agent intervention and pays commissions on the enhanced fare.
• After final payment, NCL's customers could bid on an upgrade and there was a little dial that would show them in red, yellow or green the likelihood their bid was going to be accepted. When NCL offered the cabin upgrade to the guest, they emailed the travel agency of record, so they saw the guest had been offered the ability to upgrade. If the bid was accepted NCL notified the agency. The agency had to do absolutely nothing.

Once the passengers' bids are accepted, they are assigned to an available higher-level stateroom - interior to oceanview, oceanview to a balcony, balcony to a suite or to The Haven accommodation. However, they can't choose the exact stateroom (number) to which they are assigned.

Royal Caribbean cabin upgrades

Since November 2018, RCI-Royal Caribbean International offers a bid-based cabin upgrade program called "RoyalUp". Booked customers receive an email if their voyage is eligible. They can browse through available for booking higher-grade staterooms on that voyage. Then select their bidding price for a particular cabin upgrade and submit the bid.

RoyalUp upgrades are offered fleetwide, priced per person, for the entire voyage, based on twin share. Only the first and second passengers in the cabin are charged the extra - regardless of the room's grade and max occupancy. These upgrades are based on availability. The cabin location can't be specified.

Group bookings are also included for bidding, but without a guarantee that all reservations will be upgraded. If all reservations are upgraded, RCI doesn't guarantee that all upgraded staterooms will be located close together.

Booked customers are allowed to bid on multiple cabin categories. Travel agents are also allowed to bid for their clients. Upgrade bids are accepted until 2 days prior departure. Passengers with accepted RoyalUp biddings are notified via email. They are allowed also to modify or cancel the upgrade (until 2 days prior departure) if the offer is not been accepted by RCI and their credit card is not been charged.

Last Minute Cruise Deals

Browse all remaining last minute cruise deals available from all the major cruise lines to find your dream getaway at a fraction of the price.

Book last minute all-inclusive cruise deals with Royal Caribbean , Celebrity , Princess , NCL and P&O Cruises to name just a few.

Book online with us today for extra savings and take advantage of our “Online Booking Discount”. Or, call us directly and speak to one of our cruising experts who will be more than happy to help you find the cheapest offers and best last minute cruise deals.

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Prices are subject to change and availability. Prices may vary depending on airport selected. Promotions are only applicable to select cabins grades, please call for details

Finding the best last minute cruise deals

If you have flexibility and freedom with travel dates, checking for last minute cruise deals is a fantastic way to get great holidays with big savings. Due to last minute availability, it is important to bear in mind that cabin choices may be more limited than usual.

When booking a late deal there’s a chance that you may have a cabin in a less desirable part of the ship such as next to a lift, below the pool deck or above a nightclub. If this is something that you are happy with, then booking a last minute cruise deal is the perfect idea for you.

Booking a last minute cruise deal in the UK

A last minute cruise deal is classed as a cruise holiday that is due to depart within the next 3 months. With this in mind, when you book your cruise, you will more than likely be asked to pay for the cruise in full. Generally speaking, all cruise lines will ask for your holiday to be paid in full 3 months before the sailing date.

Best last minute cruise holiday discounts

Savings of 30%, 40%, 50% and even more are available for last minute cruise bookers. Here at Cruise118, we have great relationships with all of the major cruise lines, so we’re the first to know about price reductions and bring you great savings and the best cruise deals . Our expert Cruise Concierge will be happy to make all the arrangements for your last minute cruise booking. Just give us a call and we'll be happy to answer any questions you may have.

Last minute cruise deals from the UK

If you are looking to sail from the UK, browse our cruises from the UK and our popular choice - last minute cruise deals from Southampton , to find your next holiday at a fantastic price. With departure ports from Falmouth to Liverpool, amongst many UK locations including Southampton, you can set sail easily without catching a flight. When booking your cruise online with Cruise118 you will benefit from an extra discount, making your last minute cruise deal all the more impressive.

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How to Find Out if Your Cruise Ship is Full? (Unsold Cabins)

Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links. We may receive compensation when you purchase via my links at no cost to you. See my disclosure for more information.

Whether you want to determine your odds of winning a cabin upgrade or you’re looking to score big discounts on unsold cruise cabins, it’s good if you know how to find out if your cruise ship is full.

While cruise lines are reluctant to share occupancy numbers on upcoming cruises, you can use a clever trick to find unsold cabins.

You can find out if your cruise ship is full by creating a mock booking on the cruise line’s website or a cruise booking website. By checking how many cabins are available to book, you’ll know how full your cruise ship is booked.

Keep reading to learn more about finding your cruise occupancy and getting deals on unsold cruise cabins.

Table of Contents

How to Find Out if Your Cruise Ship is Full?

Most cruise lines don’t provide an easy way to see how full a cruise ship is sailing. Instead, you can find out if your cruise ship is full by creating a mock booking to see the available cabins.

Creating a mock booking gives you a good idea of how close your cruise ship is to being sold out.

During the booking process, you’ll be asked to choose your cabin. While picking a cabin, you can see which cabin categories are sold out and how many staterooms are available.

You won’t know exactly how many passengers are booked for your sailing, but it gives you a good approximation.

If you only have a couple of cabins to choose from, it’s a good indication that your cruise is close to selling out . But if you find several dozen staterooms available to book, you’ll know your cruise is sailing under capacity.

Most cruise lines, like Royal Caribbean and Carnival Cruise Line, do a good job of showing the number of available cabins. Some of the other best websites to book a cruise show a complete deck plan highlighting unsold cruise cabins.

Additionally, a good travel agent can check the availability of your itinerary and let you know how close your cruise is to be sold out.

Why Should You Care About Unsold Cruise Cabins?

There are several reasons why you should care about unsold cruise cabins.

First, if you’re on the fence about booking the sailing, it’s important to remember that prices rise as cabins sell out.

The best time to book a cruise is right when tickets go on sale and the cruise ship is full of empty cabins. As people book their cabin accommodations and the cruise ship fills up the cruise price rises.

If you can’t book your cruise months in advance, it’s good to check how many cabins are available.

If only a few cabins are available to book, you know that prices may rise. And if you wait too long, the cruise may be sold out when you go to book.

Another reason passengers check for unsold cruise cabins is to wait for last-minute discounts . Many people try to snag unsold cruise cabins at rock-bottom prices.

While we believe you get the best cruise fare by booking your cruise well in advance of the sailing date , there are times when you can find substantially discounted cruise fares on unsold cabins.

Huge last-minute discounts on cruise fares don’t appear often, and you won’t have much time to prepare (usually only a few days or a couple of weeks at most). With such short notice, you’ll need to be flexible with your vacation time and itinerary choices if you decide to book with last-minute discounts, as you may not have many itineraries, ships, or sailing duration choices.

Finally, many people keep an eye on their cruise ship occupancy when they bid on a cabin upgrade .

Many cruise lines allow guests to place a bid on unsold cabins. If no one books the stateroom, the highest bidder receives an upgrade, usually at a discounted price.

Bidding on a cabin upgrade is exciting. You’ll usually find one or two posts daily in most cruise Facebook groups asking questions about how high to bid and their chances for an upgrade.

On our 2022 Alaska cruise on Serenade of the seas , we one an upgrade from our interior cabin to an oceanview stateroom for less than $150 per person.

The same cabin would’ve cost us nearly $500 per person if we had booked it from the start.

Everything Can Change When the Final Payment is Due

Just because your cruise looks sold out, it doesn’t mean it will stay that way.

When you book a cruise, you’ll pay a small deposit to reserve your cabin, with the remainder due closer to the sailing date.

It’s common for people to change their minds or have other circumstances that prevent them from embarking on their cruise vacation. On the payment date, it’s always possible that previously reserved cabins become available if people cancel their booking.

If you’ve checked the cabin availability before the payment date, it’s good to check a few days after the final payment is due to see if more staterooms become available.

What Do Cruise Ships Do With Unsold Cabins?

When cruise ships have unsold cabins, the cruise line may reduce the price as the sailing date approaches. If there are many unsold cabins in the weeks before embarkation, some cruise lines give big discounts to fill the ship.

Last-minute cruise deals were pretty common in the past. But they aren’t common anymore.

Increased demand for cruise vacations is part of the reason. But cruise lines are reluctant to provide big discounts on unsold cabins on cruise ships.

If cruise lines always provide last-minute deals, passengers will wait to purchase their cruise at lower prices. Cruise lines work a great deal to protect their pricing.

Instead, many cruise lines will provide smaller discounts or add extra perks like beverage packages, onboard credit, or wifi plans.

With the popularity of cabin upgrade auctions, many cruise lines don’t mind sailing with unsold cabins as long as they can make back some money from upgrade bids.

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How Cruise Lines Fill Their Unsold Cabins

Published: December 15, 2023

Modified: December 28, 2023

by Cassandre Olsen

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Introduction

The cruise industry is a booming sector of the travel and tourism industry, attracting millions of travelers every year. With luxurious accommodations, world-class entertainment, and exotic destinations, it’s no wonder that cruising has become a preferred choice for vacationers.

However, despite the popularity of cruises, cruise lines often find themselves facing the challenge of filling their unsold cabins. These unsold cabins can represent a significant financial loss for cruise lines, not to mention the missed opportunity to provide unforgettable experiences to potential passengers.

In this article, we will delve into the world of cruise line marketing and explore the strategies that cruise companies use to effectively fill their unsold cabins. From last-minute discounts to collaborating with travel agents and utilizing online booking platforms, cruise lines employ various techniques to entice passengers and ensure maximum occupancy on their voyages.

By understanding the factors that lead to unsold cabins and the strategies employed by cruise lines to fill them, we can gain valuable insights into the dynamics of the cruise industry and how it adapts to meet the demands of today’s travelers.

Understanding the Cruise Industry

The cruise industry is a complex and competitive sector that involves the operation of cruise ships, the provision of onboard amenities and services, and the organization of shore excursions and itineraries. Cruise lines cater to a wide range of travelers, offering various types of cruises, from family-friendly adventures to luxury escapes for discerning travelers.

One of the key factors that contribute to the success of the cruise industry is its ability to provide all-inclusive experiences. Passengers can enjoy accommodations, meals, entertainment, and transportation to multiple destinations, all within the confines of a floating resort. This convenience and the allure of visiting multiple destinations in one trip make cruises an attractive option for vacationers.

Despite the immense popularity of cruising, the industry is not immune to fluctuations in demand. Factors such as economic conditions, geopolitical events, seasonal variations, and changing consumer preferences can all impact the number of passengers booking cruises. This can result in unsold cabins, leaving cruise lines searching for ways to fill them.

Furthermore, the cruise industry is highly competitive, with numerous cruise lines vying for the attention and patronage of potential passengers. Each cruise line strives to differentiate itself by offering unique itineraries, onboard amenities, and exceptional customer service. This competition adds pressure on cruise lines to market their offerings effectively and entice passengers to choose their cruises over others.

Understanding the dynamics of the cruise industry is crucial for cruise lines to navigate the challenges they face, including the task of filling their unsold cabins. By analyzing the factors that contribute to unsold cabins and studying successful marketing strategies, cruise lines can gain a competitive edge and boost their occupancy rates.

Factors Leading to Unsold Cabins

Several factors can contribute to the presence of unsold cabins in the cruise industry. Understanding these factors is key to developing effective strategies to fill those cabins and maximize occupancy rates. Here are some of the main factors that can lead to unsold cabins:

1. Seasonal Variations: The demand for cruises can vary depending on the time of year. Peak seasons, such as summer and major holidays, often see high occupancy rates, while off-peak seasons may experience lower demand. If a cruise line fails to anticipate the seasonal fluctuations accurately, they may end up with unsold cabins.

2. Economic Conditions: Economic downturns can have a significant impact on the travel industry, including the cruise sector. When consumers are more cautious about their spending, they may delay or cancel their travel plans, resulting in unsold cabins. Conversely, favorable economic conditions can lead to increased demand for cruises.

3. Geopolitical Events: Political instability, natural disasters, or health-related incidents can disrupt travel plans and deter passengers from booking cruises. These unforeseen events can create a sense of uncertainty and impact the number of individuals willing to embark on a cruise, ultimately leading to unsold cabins.

4. Competition from Other Travel Options: The travel industry offers various vacation alternatives, including all-inclusive resorts, adventure tours, and city breaks. The competition from these alternatives can reduce the demand for cruises, resulting in unsold cabins. Cruise lines must differentiate their offerings and showcase the unique benefits of cruising to attract passengers.

5. Changing Consumer Preferences: The preferences and expectations of travelers are continuously evolving. Cruise lines must stay in tune with these changes and adapt their offerings accordingly. Failure to meet the evolving demands of consumers can lead to unsold cabins as passengers seek alternative vacation options.

While these factors can contribute to the presence of unsold cabins, cruise lines have developed strategies to mitigate these risks. By offering last-minute discounts, upgrading passengers, partnering with travel agents, and implementing effective marketing and advertising techniques, cruise lines can attract passengers and fill their unsold cabins. In the following sections, we will explore these strategies in more detail.

Last-Minute Discounts

One effective strategy that cruise lines employ to fill their unsold cabins is offering last-minute discounts. As the departure date for a cruise approaches, if there are still empty cabins available, the cruise line may reduce the prices to incentivize potential passengers to book.

Last-minute discounts can be appealing to travelers who have a flexible schedule or are spontaneous in their vacation planning. These discounts provide an opportunity for passengers to snag a great deal on a cruise and enjoy a memorable vacation experience at a lower cost.

By offering last-minute discounts, cruise lines can create a sense of urgency and encourage hesitant passengers to make a booking. It also allows them to maximize revenue by generating income from cabins that would otherwise remain empty.

These discounts are often communicated through various channels, including the cruise line’s website, newsletters, travel agencies, and online travel agencies (OTAs). Potential passengers can search for available discounted cruises and compare the prices to find the best deal that suits their preferences and budget.

However, it’s important for cruise lines to strike a balance when offering last-minute discounts. While these discounts can help fill the unsold cabins, offering them too frequently or at a significant discount may lead to an expectation among passengers that they can always secure low prices by waiting until the last minute. This can undermine the value of early bookings and have a negative impact on overall revenue.

To optimize the effectiveness of last-minute discounts, cruise lines often employ dynamic pricing strategies. This involves adjusting the prices based on factors such as demand, availability, and market conditions. By monitoring the demand for specific cruises and considering the pricing thresholds, cruise lines can ensure that the discounted prices still generate sufficient revenue while filling the unsold cabins.

Last-minute discounts not only benefit the cruise lines by filling the unsold cabins and generating additional revenue, but they also provide an opportunity for travelers to experience a cruise at a discounted price. It’s a win-win scenario that allows cruise lines to optimize their occupancy rates while offering attractive deals to passengers.

Upgrading Passengers

Another strategy utilized by cruise lines to fill their unsold cabins is the practice of upgrading passengers. This involves offering passengers who have already booked a lower-tier cabin the opportunity to upgrade to a higher-tier cabin at a discounted or nominal fee.

Upgrading passengers serves multiple purposes for cruise lines. Firstly, it helps to fill the unsold cabins by enticing passengers to take advantage of the upgraded accommodations. This can be particularly appealing to passengers who may have initially chosen a lower-tier cabin due to budget constraints or availability.

Secondly, upgrading passengers can enhance the overall cruise experience for the guests. By providing higher-level amenities and enhanced features, passengers who choose to upgrade can enjoy a more luxurious and enjoyable vacation. This positive experience can lead to increased customer satisfaction and word-of-mouth recommendations.

To implement the upgrading strategy effectively, cruise lines evaluate factors such as cabin availability, passenger demand, and cabin inventory. They identify the cabins that are likely to remain unsold and offer them for upgrade. The upgrade offers may be communicated through email or during the check-in process, providing passengers with the opportunity to upgrade before the sailing date.

Cruise lines often tailor their upgrade offers to cater to different passenger segments. For example, families may be offered upgrades to larger cabins with more space and additional amenities, while couples may be given the option to upgrade to cabins with private balconies for a more intimate experience.

It’s important for cruise lines to ensure that the pricing of the upgrade offers is reasonable and provides value to the passengers. Offering upgrades at a significantly discounted rate compared to the regular price can incentivize passengers to take advantage of the offer and upgrade their accommodations.

Upgrading passengers not only assists in filling unsold cabins but also contributes to generating additional revenue. The price difference between the original booking and the upgrade can help offset the cost of the discounted upgrade, thereby optimizing the cruise line’s revenue stream.

By implementing an effective passenger upgrade strategy, cruise lines can improve occupancy rates, enhance customer satisfaction, and generate additional revenue. It’s a win-win situation that benefits both the cruise line and the passengers.

Partnering with Travel Agents

One of the strategies employed by cruise lines to fill their unsold cabins is to partner with travel agents. Travel agents play a crucial role in the cruise industry by connecting potential passengers with the right cruise line and helping them navigate the booking process.

By partnering with travel agents, cruise lines can tap into their expertise, industry knowledge, and established network of clients. Travel agents have access to a wide range of potential customers who are actively seeking vacation options. They can market the cruise line’s offerings, promote special deals, and provide personalized recommendations based on their clients’ preferences.

Through their strong relationships with travel agents, cruise lines can effectively reach a larger audience and increase the chances of filling their unsold cabins. Travel agents have direct communication with their clients and can proactively promote cruises that align with their clients’ interests and budgets.

Cruise lines often provide travel agents with tools and resources to assist them in promoting and selling their cruises. This may include access to brochures, training programs, promotional materials, and exclusive offers that travel agents can pass on to their clients. These collaborations benefit both the cruise line and the travel agents, as travel agents earn commissions on the bookings they facilitate.

Furthermore, travel agents can provide valuable insights and feedback to cruise lines, informing them about market trends, customer preferences, and areas for improvement. This helps cruise lines refine their offerings, better understand their target audience, and develop targeted marketing campaigns.

In recent years, online travel agencies (OTAs) have also emerged as important partners for cruise lines. These platforms allow travelers to search and compare multiple cruise options, including last-minute deals and promotions. Cruise lines collaborate with OTAs to promote their cruises, expand their reach to online audiences, and increase their chances of filling unsold cabins.

Overall, partnering with travel agents and OTAs is a strategic approach for cruise lines to fill their unsold cabins. By leveraging the expertise and networks of travel professionals, cruise lines can tap into a larger customer base, increase their visibility, and ultimately boost their occupancy rates.

Marketing and Advertising Strategies

Marketing and advertising play a vital role in helping cruise lines fill their unsold cabins. By effectively promoting their offerings and creating awareness among potential passengers, cruise lines can generate interest and entice bookings. Here are some of the key marketing and advertising strategies employed by cruise lines:

1. Digital Marketing: Cruise lines utilize various digital marketing channels to reach their target audience. This includes search engine optimization (SEO) to improve their visibility in search engine results, social media marketing to engage with potential passengers, and email marketing to provide personalized offers and updates. Online advertisements, such as banner ads and sponsored content, are also employed to reach a wider audience across websites and social media platforms.

2. Influencer Marketing: Cruise lines collaborate with travel influencers and bloggers who have a substantial following in the travel industry. These influencers share their cruise experiences, showcasing the luxurious accommodations, onboard amenities, and exciting destinations. Their endorsements can have a significant impact on raising awareness and generating interest among their followers, ultimately leading to bookings.

3. Targeted Campaigns: Cruise lines develop targeted marketing campaigns to reach specific customer segments. For example, family-focused campaigns may highlight child-friendly activities and amenities, while luxury-focused campaigns may emphasize the premium services and upscale experiences onboard. By tailoring their messaging and visuals to resonate with different customer segments, cruise lines can effectively capture the attention of their target audience.

4. Multi-channel Advertising: Cruise lines advertise through various channels, including television, radio, print media, and online platforms. Multi-channel advertising helps reach diverse audiences and ensures maximum exposure for their offerings. They partner with media outlets and travel publications to showcase their cruises, feature special deals, and highlight unique amenities or itineraries.

5. Loyalty Programs and Referral Incentives: Cruise lines offer loyalty programs to reward repeat customers and encourage them to book again. These programs often come with exclusive benefits, such as cabin upgrades, onboard credits, or discounted fares. Additionally, cruise lines may provide referral incentives, offering discounts or onboard credits to passengers who refer new customers. This word-of-mouth marketing can be a powerful tool in filling unsold cabins.

By implementing these marketing and advertising strategies, cruise lines can effectively reach their target audience, create demand for their offerings, and fill their unsold cabins. It’s important for cruise lines to stay innovative, continuously adapt to changes in consumer behavior, and invest in strategic marketing efforts that connect with potential passengers on various platforms and channels.

Targeting Niche Markets

In order to fill their unsold cabins, cruise lines often focus on targeting niche markets. Niche markets represent specific segments of the population with unique interests, preferences, and travel needs. By creating specialized cruise experiences tailored to these niche markets, cruise lines can attract a dedicated customer base and increase their chances of filling unsold cabins.

One example of a niche market is the adventure and expedition cruise segment. These cruises offer immersive experiences in remote and lesser-explored destinations, catering to adventure enthusiasts and nature lovers. By incorporating activities like kayaking, hiking, and wildlife encounters, cruise lines can appeal to those seeking a more adventurous vacation experience.

Another niche market is the luxury segment. Luxury cruises cater to affluent travelers who seek unparalleled service, gourmet dining options, and exclusive amenities. By focusing on providing a high-end experience, cruise lines can attract guests willing to pay a premium for a luxurious and personalized voyage.

Cruise lines also target niche markets based on special interests, such as culinary cruises that highlight gourmet cuisine and wine tastings, or wellness cruises that offer spa treatments, fitness classes, and mindfulness workshops. These specialized itineraries appeal to individuals who are passionate about specific topics and provide immersive experiences related to their interests.

Cruise lines also recognize the potential of family and multigenerational markets. They offer cruises with family-friendly amenities, kids’ clubs, and entertainment options suitable for travelers of all ages. By providing activities and experiences that cater to families, cruise lines can attract parents planning memorable vacations for their children and themselves.

Targeting niche markets goes beyond developing specialized cruise itineraries; it also involves tailoring marketing strategies to reach these specific audiences. This might include placing targeted advertisements in relevant publications or partnering with specialized travel agents who cater to those niche markets.

By identifying and targeting niche markets, cruise lines can expand their reach beyond broad demographics and tap into customer segments that are likely to be highly interested in their offerings. This approach allows cruise lines to fill unsold cabins by appealing to specific groups of travelers who align with the cruise line’s unique offerings.

Ultimately, targeting niche markets requires a deep understanding of customer preferences, careful market research, and a commitment to developing tailored experiences. By focusing on niche markets, cruise lines can maximize their occupancy rates and offer specialized cruise experiences that cater to the diverse needs and desires of today’s travelers.

Utilizing Online Booking Platforms

Online booking platforms have revolutionized the way people search for and book travel, including cruises. To fill their unsold cabins, cruise lines have embraced these platforms and leverage their wide reach and convenience to attract potential passengers.

Online booking platforms provide a centralized marketplace where travelers can easily search and compare different cruise options, explore itineraries, browse cabin categories, and view pricing details. These platforms allow cruise lines to showcase their offerings and provide comprehensive information to help passengers make informed decisions.

By partnering with online booking platforms, cruise lines can tap into a vast online audience actively looking for vacation options. These platforms often have sophisticated search filters and tools that help users narrow down their choices based on their preferences, budget, and desired sailing dates. Cruise lines can optimize their presence on these platforms by ensuring accurate and up-to-date information, appealing visuals, and compelling descriptions of their cruises.

One advantage of online booking platforms is their ability to offer dynamic pricing, allowing cruise lines to adjust prices in real-time based on supply and demand. This flexibility enables cruise lines to make strategic pricing decisions to fill unsold cabins. Last-minute deals, discounted rates, and special promotions can be easily communicated to potential passengers through these platforms, stimulating immediate bookings and filling vacancies.

Online booking platforms also provide a convenient and efficient booking process for passengers. With just a few clicks, travelers can choose their cabin category, select add-ons or upgrades, and complete their reservation. These platforms often offer secure payment options and provide instant confirmations, simplifying the booking experience for passengers and reducing any potential barriers to finalizing their cruise plans.

Furthermore, online booking platforms often have review systems and customer feedback sections, allowing previous passengers to share their experiences and ratings. Positive reviews and high ratings can significantly influence potential passengers in their decision-making process, increasing the chances of filling unsold cabins through positive word-of-mouth and social proof.

Cruise lines also benefit from the data and analytics provided by online booking platforms. They can gain insights into passenger preferences, popular itineraries, consumer demand, and booking trends. By analyzing this data, cruise lines can refine their marketing strategies, optimize their offerings, and make data-driven decisions to improve their chances of filling unsold cabins.

Overall, utilizing online booking platforms is an essential strategy for cruise lines to fill their unsold cabins. By taking advantage of the extensive reach, dynamic pricing options, and efficient booking process offered by these platforms, cruise lines can effectively connect with a vast online audience, simplify the booking process, and generate bookings to maximize their occupancy rates.

Collaborating with Online Travel Agencies

Collaborating with online travel agencies (OTAs) is a crucial strategy for cruise lines to fill their unsold cabins. OTAs are digital platforms that offer a wide selection of travel options, including cruises, to consumers. By partnering with OTAs, cruise lines can tap into their extensive network, benefit from their marketing reach, and attract a larger audience of potential passengers.

One of the main advantages of collaborating with OTAs is the exposure it provides to a diverse and global customer base. OTAs have established relationships with travelers from different regions and demographics, offering cruise lines an opportunity to reach a broader audience beyond their traditional marketing channels.

OTAs invest in various marketing strategies and campaigns to drive traffic to their platforms. By aligning with these efforts, cruise lines can benefit from the increased visibility and brand exposure. This increased presence on OTAs can generate more interest, inquiries, and ultimately bookings for the cruise line’s unsold cabins.

Another advantage of collaborating with OTAs is their expertise in creating compelling travel packages and deals. OTAs often offer bundled options such as flights, accommodations, and activities, combined with cruises, to provide a comprehensive travel experience for their customers. Cruise lines can work with OTAs to develop attractive package deals that include their unsold cabins, making them more appealing and enticing to potential passengers.

Additionally, OTAs have advanced search and filtering capabilities that allow travelers to narrow down their choices based on specific preferences, such as cruise duration, destination, cabin type, and price range. Cruise lines can optimize their presence on OTAs by ensuring accurate and detailed information about their cabins, amenities, and itineraries. This ensures that potential passengers can easily find and consider the available options, including the unsold cabins.

Collaborating with OTAs also provides cruise lines with access to valuable analytics and data. OTAs often provide insights on consumer behavior, booking trends, and demand patterns. Cruise lines can leverage this data to identify potential gaps in their marketing strategies, understand the preferences of their target audience, and fine-tune their offerings to maximize the occupancy of their unsold cabins.

However, cruise lines should also consider the commission fees associated with partnering with OTAs. It’s important to assess the financial impact and determine if the benefits, such as increased bookings and exposure, outweigh the commission fees incurred.

In summary, collaborating with OTAs is an effective strategy for cruise lines to fill their unsold cabins. By leveraging the marketing reach of OTAs, creating attractive package deals, optimizing their presence on these platforms, and utilizing the valuable data and insights provided, cruise lines can expand their reach, increase bookings, and maximize their occupancy rates.

Filling unsold cabins is a critical goal for cruise lines, and they employ various strategies to achieve this objective. From last-minute discounts and passenger upgrades to partnering with travel agents, utilizing online booking platforms, targeting niche markets, and collaborating with online travel agencies, cruise lines have a range of tools at their disposal to optimize their occupancy rates.

The cruise industry is dynamic and competitive, with various factors contributing to the presence of unsold cabins. Seasonal variations, economic conditions, geopolitical events, competition from alternative travel options, and changing consumer preferences are all factors that cruise lines must navigate. By understanding these factors, cruise lines can develop targeted strategies to effectively fill unsold cabins.

Last-minute discounts create a sense of urgency and incentivize passengers to book by offering attractive deals. Upgrading passengers enhances their experience and fills unsold higher-tier cabins. Partnering with travel agents and collaborating with online travel agencies expands the reach and visibility of cruise lines, connecting them with a wide range of potential passengers.

Marketing and advertising strategies help cruise lines generate awareness, create demand, and fill unsold cabins. Targeting niche markets allows cruise lines to tailor their offerings to specific customer segments, increasing their appeal and occupancy rates. Utilizing online booking platforms and collaborating with OTAs provide convenience, reach, and dynamic pricing options, simplifying the booking process and maximizing exposure to potential passengers.

In conclusion, the cruise industry continuously adapts and employs various strategies to fill unsold cabins. By understanding customer preferences, offering attractive deals, leveraging partnerships, and employing effective marketing and advertising initiatives, cruise lines can optimize their occupancy rates, provide memorable experiences to passengers, and ensure the financial success of their operations.

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Understanding Unsold Cruise Cabins

How do cruise lines fill them.

If you’ve ever wanted to go on a cruise but find that they’re out of your price range, this is the article for you. Here, you’ll learn all about the little-known world of unsold cruise cabins and discover how you can secure one this year. It can be a slightly challenging process, but with perseverance, those in the know can make big savings.

It won’t surprise you to learn that cruise lines don’t like any of their rooms sitting empty. Empty rooms mean fewer passengers and fewer passengers mean less money being spent onboard. Fewer travelers put a dent in food, drink and merchandise sales. Because of this, companies do whatever it takes to get more people to board their ships and spend money.

They do this by selling unsold cruise cabins at discounted prices closer to the departure date. Let’s dive in and discover how you can secure one for you and your family.

How To Tell If Unsold Cruise Cabins Are About To Go On Sale

Unfortunately, there’s no easy way to know whether unsold cruise cabins are about to go up for sale. Cruise ship companies keep their cards close to their chest on this one, hiding this information on their website and from the press. This can make it almost impossible for you to know whether rooms are to be discounted in the immediate future.

The best practice is to prepare yourself by putting in the work to receive discount alerts. Read on to discover how to get a notification the next time a cheap cruise vacation becomes available.

Three Popular Methods For Securing Unsold Cruise Cabins

Below, you’ll discover the three best methods for securing great cruise deals.

Hit Subscribe

The best way to find out about discounted cabins is to subscribe to the mailing lists of all the major cruise lines. The easiest way for them to advertise their offers is to those customers interested in their experiences, so joining their email lists is advisable.

Cruise companies tend to sell through third-party organizations too. This means that major travel agencies could get first-selling rights when it comes to unsold cruise vacation cabins. Signing up for their mailing lists could mean you get discounted vacation tickets before anyone else.

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Use Social Media

In addition to email sends, cruise lines and travel agents might also post about unsold cruise cabin opportunities across their social media platforms. It’s worth following your favorite brands on Facebook, X (Twitter), Instagram and TikTok. Alternatively, you could search for keywords on these sites such as ‘cruise sale’ or ‘cruise discounts’.

While following all the cruise lines across multiple platforms is time-consuming, the savings could be huge. It’ll all be worth it if you secure a great room at a cheap price!

Try Your Luck Closer To The Departure Date

While this third method often doesn’t work, there are occasions when it will - so it’s worth a try. If you have your heart set on a specific ship or journey, check the price of a cabin ahead of time and make a note of it. Then, much closer to the departure date, check again to see if it’s been discounted. If it has, then it’s the perfect time to book.

The risk with this method is that you may accidentally miss out on the trip of a lifetime by waiting it out for too long.

Three Things To Be Aware Of

While successfully navigating the market of unsold cruise cabins can save you lots of money, there are three factors to be aware of.

Perks May Be Offered Instead Of Discounts

Instead of discounted rooms, cruise lines have been known to offer extra perks to encourage bookings. This means that room prices will be the same as before, but you could get free Wi-Fi access or drinks packages.

Savings Might Not Be As Big As You’d Expect

While big savings are out there, most unsold cruise cabins won’t become available with huge discounts. Cruises are very popular, so companies know that they can fill rooms - meaning they don’t always have to be generous with their offers.

Nevertheless, while you aren’t ever going to travel the world for US$100, you could still save hundreds or even thousands.

Upgrades Can Be Thought Of As A Type Of Saving

Instead of a discount, you may be offered a free upgrade. While this would mean you don’t get to enjoy any money-saving successes, you can secure a premium room for the price of a standard one.

For example, closer to your departure date, the company might offer balcony rooms for the same price as interior rooms without a window. While you won’t see a percentage price reduction, it’s still a huge offer that shouldn’t be missed.

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How cruise ships fill their unsold cabins.

When it comes to filling unsold cabins, cruise lines have basically got to be very creative, especially the closer that it gets to sailing day. In an ideal world from their point of view, ships would go out full on each and every sailing. 

This kind of creativity surfaces on a number of fronts. 

For instance, some lines might waive the usual single supplements, in a bid to get more solo travellers on board. They might also upgrade already booked past passengers, especially if they are part of a company loyalty programme, and then sell the freed-up cabins to new potential passengers. 

But these are not the only arrows at the cruise lines' disposal. They can lure the potential passenger on board by offering a range of on board credits (OBC in industry speak) that can be used to pay for on board drinks, shore excursions, spa treatments, and sometimes even in the shops on some lines. 

They can offer free or substantially discounted internet packages to passengers, as well as two-for-one fares that allow a couple to travel together at a single price. 

For many passengers, one of the best lures out there can be the offer of free air fares on fly cruises, or sometimes complimentary upgrades from economy to business class. This is an option that is particularly popular on cruises sailing from and to European ports.

Additional incentives can be dangled before the prospective passenger, including free overnight hotel stays in the port of embarkation, either pre or post cruise. And, for regular patrons of any given cruise line, loyalty bonuses can often come into play, reducing the cost of a cruise by anything from between five to ten per cent, and sometimes even more. 

As more and more ships enter service, expect cruise lines to get more creative still in their attempts to get you on board. For instance, off season sailings in the Mediterranean can be priced at less than half the cost of the same voyage in peak season, with the advantage of smaller crowds at the main tourist sites. The drawback here- and everything is a trade off to a certain extent- is the cooler weather. 

Similarly, taking a back to back voyage in the Caribbean- effectively, combining two cruises- also usually works out a lot cheaper, with the lines emphasising that you are only paying one airfare. 

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Get Incredible Deals on Unsold Cruise Cabins Today!

Don’t miss out on the opportunity to sail away on your dream cruise at incredibly discounted prices! Cruise lines often have unsold cabins available at discounted rates. Learn the secrets to access unbeatable savings on these cabins and set a course for your dream vacation. Search now! 🔍

Are you tired of feeling like a landlubber, watching others soak up the sun and savoring the luxurious amenities of a cruise ship? Well, avast ye! We have just the treasure map you need to unlock incredible deals on unsold cruise cabins.

Picture yourself sailing the high seas, all while keeping your hard-earned doubloons safe in your pocket. But how, you ask? Stay tuned as we reveal the secrets to securing unbeatable discounts, and insider tips that even the most seasoned sailors may not know.

Get ready to embark on a voyage of savings that will leave you eager to set sail on your dream vacation.

Understanding Onsold Cruise Cabins

If you’re looking to score a great deal on a cruise, understanding how to navigate the world of unsold cruise cabins is key. Cruise lines are always looking to fill as many beds on their ships as possible, which means there are often unsold cabins available at discounted prices. But how do you find these hidden gems?

First, it’s important to know what factors contribute to unsold cabins. Some itineraries are harder to fill than others, like older ships or less popular travel periods. Cruise lines fill these cabins by offering extra-value deals and discounts. They also have additional sleeping arrangements that allow for more capacity than the stated double occupancy.

Identifying unsold cabins can be a challenge, as cruise lines protect this information. However, starting the online booking process can give you a glimpse of available cabins. Websites like Costco Travel and Best Price Cruises show full deck plans with available cabins. Travel advisors may also have a clearer view of inventory on a particular sailing.

Timing is crucial when it comes to scoring deals on unsold cabins. Discounts tend to appear after the final payment, and the sweet spot for deals is often 60 to 90 days before departure. However, it’s important to note that deals on unsold cabins may take weeks to appear, and they depend on the cruise line’s desired occupancy.

When it comes to the types of deals on unsold cruise cabins, don’t expect crazy promotions with extremely low fares. Cruise lines protect pricing on balcony cabins and suites. Instead, they offer extra perks like Kids Sail Free, reduced deposits, upgrade offers, and promotions for higher-level suites.

Cruise lines also target specific groups of travelers to offer lower prices. Loyalty program members may receive perks like double loyalty points or reduced fares. Resident discounts are available when a ship has space to sell in a particular port. Price drops for seniors or certain professions are also used to fill ships. To increase your chances of exclusive discounts, consider joining cruise line loyalty programs and subscribing to promotional emails.

Timing Your Booking for Maximum Savings

Maximize your savings by booking your cruise at the perfect time. Timing is crucial when it comes to getting incredible deals on unsold cruise cabins. You don’t want to miss out on the opportunity to save big on your dream vacation. So, here’s what you need to know.

The sweet spot for deals on unsold cabins is often 60 to 90 days before departure. This is when cruise lines start offering discounts to fill up their ships. But keep in mind that deals may take weeks to appear, so be patient and keep an eye out for special offers.

To increase your chances of finding the best deals, join cruise line loyalty programs and subscribe to promotional emails. Cruise lines often offer exclusive discounts and perks to their loyal customers. By belonging to these programs, you’ll have access to special pricing and early booking opportunities.

Additionally, be on the lookout for targeted group price reductions. Cruise lines often target select groups of travelers with lower prices. This could include loyalty program members, seniors, or residents of certain ports. By taking advantage of these targeted discounts, you can save even more on your cruise.

Researching Cruise Lines and Itineraries

To ensure you make the most informed decision for your upcoming cruise, it’s essential to thoroughly research different cruise lines and their itineraries. By doing so, you can find the perfect match that meets your preferences and budget.

Start by exploring various cruise lines and their offerings. Each cruise line has its own unique style, amenities, and target audience. Some cater to families with children, while others focus on luxury and relaxation. Consider what you value most in a cruise experience and choose a line that aligns with your interests.

Next, delve into the itineraries offered by each cruise line. Look for destinations that excite you and activities that you’d enjoy. Whether you prefer tropical beaches, historic cities, or natural wonders, there’s a cruise itinerary for you. Pay attention to the duration of the cruise and the ports of call along the way. Research the shore excursions available at each destination to ensure they align with your interests.

Utilizing Online Travel Agencies and Deal Websites

Utilize online travel agencies and deal websites to find the best deals and discounts on cruise vacations. These platforms are a treasure trove of opportunities to save money and secure incredible deals on unsold cruise cabins. With just a few clicks, you can access a wide range of options from various cruise lines and compare prices to make sure you’re getting the best value for your money.

Online travel agencies like Costco Travel and Best Price Cruises offer full-deck plans with available cabins, allowing you to find the perfect cabin at a discounted price. Additionally, travel advisors may have access to exclusive inventory on specific sailings, giving you an advantage in finding unsold cabins.

Timing is crucial when it comes to snagging the best deals. Discounts on unsold cabins tend to appear after the final payment, with the sweet spot for deals often being 60 to 90 days before departure. However, keep in mind that these deals may take weeks to surface, so it’s important to be patient and persistent in your search.

Take advantage of targeted group price reductions as well. Cruise lines often offer lower prices to select groups of travelers, such as loyalty program members, residents of certain ports, seniors, or specific professions. By joining cruise line loyalty programs and subscribing to promotional emails, you increase your chances of accessing exclusive discounts tailored to your preferences.

Don’t wait any longer to book your dream cruise vacation at an unbeatable price. Start exploring online travel agencies and deal websites now to find the perfect deal on an unsold cruise cabin. Your dream vacation awaits, and with these resources at your fingertips, you can make it a reality while saving money and feeling like you truly belong.

Flexibility and Last-Minute Deals

Now is the time to take advantage of your flexibility and seize the opportunity for incredible last-minute deals on unsold cruise cabins. If you’re someone who craves adventure and wants to belong to a community of like-minded travelers, then this is the perfect opportunity for you. Imagine yourself exploring exotic destinations, indulging in world-class cuisine, and enjoying top-notch entertainment, all at a fraction of the usual cost. By being flexible with your travel dates and destinations, you can find amazing deals that will make your dreams a reality.

Cruise lines are constantly looking to fill their cabins, and when they’ve unsold inventory, they offer incredible discounts to attract last-minute bookings. This is where your flexibility comes in. By being open to different itineraries and departure dates, you can score unbelievable savings. Whether you’re looking for a Caribbean getaway, a Mediterranean adventure, or an Alaskan expedition, there are deals waiting for you.

But don’t wait too long. These last-minute deals are in high demand and can disappear quickly. Act now to secure your spot on a luxury cruise ship and join a community of fellow travelers who share your passion for exploration. Embrace your flexibility and embark on an unforgettable journey at an unbeatable price. The world is waiting for you, and now is the time to set sail.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are there any specific strategies or techniques for negotiating even lower prices on unsold cruise cabins.

To negotiate even lower prices on unsold cruise cabins, research different cruise lines, subscribe to promotional emails, and join loyalty programs. Be flexible with travel dates and destinations, and consider booking closer to the departure date for last-minute deals.

Are There Any Hidden Fees or Additional Costs Associated With Booking Unsold Cruise Cabins?

There may be additional costs associated with booking unsold cruise cabins, such as taxes, port fees, and gratuities. It’s important to read the fine print and consider these expenses when calculating the overall cost.

Can You Earn Loyalty Points or Rewards When Booking Unsold Cruise Cabins?

Yes, you can earn loyalty points and rewards when booking unsold cruise cabins. Many cruise lines offer perks like double loyalty points, reduced fares, and exclusive discounts for joining their loyalty programs and subscribing to promotional emails.

How Can I Ensure That I Am Getting the Best Deal When Booking Through an Online Travel Agency or Deal Website?

To ensure you get the best deal when booking through an online travel agency or deal website, compare prices, check for exclusive discounts, and sign up for promotional emails. Act fast, as deals can disappear quickly!

Are There Any Risks or Disadvantages to Booking Last-Minute Deals on Unsold Cruise Cabins?

Booking last-minute deals on unsold cruise cabins can come with risks and disadvantages. Limited cabin availability, less flexibility in itinerary choices, and the potential for higher travel costs are factors to consider.

Don’t miss out on the opportunity to embark on a luxurious cruise adventure at an incredible price.

By following our tips and strategies, you can score amazing deals on unsold cruise cabins and make the most of your cruise budget. From upgrade offers to reduced deposits, there are plenty of money-saving options available.

So don’t wait any longer, set sail on an unforgettable journey without breaking the bank.

Start planning your dream cruise today!

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How Cruise Ships Fill Unsold Cabins ?

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Ever wondered how cruise ships fill unsold cabins? You must be aware that the last thing the cruise lines will want is to sail a ship with too many empty cruise ship cabins So, how does a cruise line ensures that they sell unsold cabins? 

The only meaning of empty cruise ship cabins is that there are even fewer passengers to spend money on drinks, excursions, in the spa, and restaurants.

So, here is a secret that the cruise companies will never tell you. And, as the best travel agency in London , we are going to spill the beans for you. This is our secret to scoring the best last-minute cruise deals and how cruise ships fill unsold cabins. Because believe us, everyone wants to get the best vacation possible and your cruise ship passengers are no different.

You must have heard about the dramatic price drop at the last minute, ever wondered why? Because the goal of any cruise ship is to sell 100 percent occupancy and they have their own strategy to fill empty cabins, and this can result in more savings for the passengers.

However, it’s not that simple. Getting a last-minute deal on a cruise sailing is not that simple. So you would require a professional travel agent to do so. Cruise ships will not start discounting tickets until they really have to. You need to plan early to take advantage of the unsold cabins.

This is how it actually works:

The cruise ships fill unsold cabins in two processes. First, they will sell the higher category cabins like the ocean-view and balcony level suites at much-discounted rates. Because it is always better to sell the cabin at  £500-600 less than sailing it empty. 

So, they might upset the already booked passengers on the cruise – giving them discounted upgrades. So, if you have already booked yourself on the cruise ship, you might get a call from the representative asking if you would like to upgrade for a couple of hundred pounds more.

Secondly, the remaining unsold cabins will be then given to travel agencies or internet agencies to sell because they always have the ability to move the capacity. There might be flash sales, of which you can deduce that the cruise ship is trying to see unsold cabins.

Free Upgrades

The cruise ships fill unsold cabins by simply changing the way of general sales. Many cruise liners now sell expensive inside cabins & term as a “free upgrade” to a Balcony cabin which is in fact a discounted price for a Balcony cabin. This saves them of ire of currently booked passengers on Balcony cabin and surely helps them selling the unsold cabins without being noticed.

But frankly keeping track of all this is not an easy task. So, how to make sure that you snag a deal with the cruise lines. Here are a few tips and tricks of the trade we are sharing with you:

Communicate with your travel agent

It might always not be easy to find a last-minute cruise deal all by yourself because the cruise lines are not going to flag specifics of unsold cabins. So, it is always better to book through a travel agent . They are professional and well-rehearsed with what, when, and how cruise lines will offer discounted deals. Moreover, they know the current discounted prices are actually cheaper or not, or they actually the same prices but advertised better.

Subscribe to Mailing lists

Another way to find out about unsold cabins and discounts is to subscribe to mailing lists. They will surely be advertising flash sales. Also, join the mailing list of your trusted travel agents because they too advertise exclusive cruise discounts.

Book if you have specific sailing in mind

If you are particular about the sailing, we advise you to book it on a minimal amount and make sure you see if there are any discounts available a week before the final payment is due. This way you will at least not have to shell out more if there are no unsold cabins. After all, it is all a bargain.

Repositioning Voyages

Cruise companies offer massive discounts when they reposition their ships from one continent to another part of the world. Some cruise experts also call it “Follow the Sun”.

From our experience biggest bargain lies when Cruise liners are reposition from Europe to Australasia or Australasia to Europe. To prepare for a change in seasons or as they call following the sun.

Check if you have upgrades available

Check with your travel agent if there are any upgrades available on your booking. There are chances that are open-higher category cabins available.

Make Group Bookings

Another technique to get the best cruise deals is to make group bookings . It is highly likely that you will get great discounts if you traveling with more people – in groups than traveling alone. Group cruise cabin bookings are a sure-shot way to get major discounted deals.

Travel in low season

If you can, we advise you to make your cruising plans in the low season. This is the time when there will be a lot of unsold cabins and cruise ships will be ready to sell them at lower rates. The off-season is the best time to find the best cruise deals, for example – the winter season in the Mediterranean and hurricane season in the Caribbean. Avoid booking at the time of summer school holidays, Christmas and Easter, as they are more expensive.

Choose an inside cabin

If the view of the sea isn’t important and you are not planning to spend more time in the room then, we suggest you book inside the cabin. They are much cheaper as compared to balconies or ocean views. After all most time, you are by the pool, in the city where you docked & finally around at the bar or dinner table.

Consider the ship and port of departure

Cruise holiday that doesn’t include airfare is far cheaper than the ones far from home. If you are working on a tight budget, make sure that you book the cruise that has a departure port closer to home. Also, consider cruising on a ship that has already been broken in. Chances are that when a cruise line launches a new ship, there are major discounted deals.

Consider booking Business Class Flights

Always & always ask an upgrade cost on to business class flights or to premium economy flights .

Ssshhhh … so a trade secret for all of you. When you book a cruise it opens highly discounted Inclusive Tour rates otherwise called as IT fares. Ask your cruise company on that if they can book you in IT fares. In case if it still does not sound good. Call us & give your cruise details we will surely fetch you an upgrade to a business class flights with an additional but marginally more to economy flights.

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Unsold Cruise Cabins & Last Minute Specials

• Posted on 22 January 2023
• 7 Minutes to read

Are you ready to Pack & Go? Unsold cruise cabins are going at bargain prices for summer sailings around New Zealand, Australia, Asia and the South Pacific 

29 January 2023, Majestic Princess, 13 night one way cruise Auckland | Bay Of Islands (Paihia) | Tauranga | Wellington | Picton & Marlborough Sounds | Christchurch | Port Chalmers (Dunedin) | Fjordland including Milford Sound | Hobart | Sydney Last Minute Flash Sale Fare from $1318 pp  share twin Balcony rooms from $1978 pp share twin 

Silversea Ultra Luxury All Inclusive Asia voyages February & March 2023 Final Call for a choice of immersive Asia voyages departing Singapore & Hong Kong, the perfect suite life in All Inclusive luxury, 10 nights from $6942 pp share twin VIEW LAST MINUTE ALL INCLUSIVE SUITE DEALS

07 February 23, 8 nights Roundtrip from Brisbane to Vanuatu & New Caledonia Quantum of the Seas Last Minute Deal Interior Rooms from  $662 pp  Twin Share Last Minute Deal Balcony Rooms from  $773 pp  Twin Share BOOK ONLINE 14 February 23, 8 nights Queen Elizabeth one way cruise Melbourne, Australia | Fiordland Scenic Cruising | Dunedin |  Christchurch (Lyttelton) | Wellington | Auckland

Last Minute Luxury from $1373 pp share twin BOOK NOW

15 February 23, 8 nights Roundtrip from Brisbane to Vanuatu & New Caledonia Quantum of the Seas Last Minute Deal Interior Rooms from  $663 pp  Twin Share Last Minute Deal Balcony Rooms from  $774 pp  Twin Share BOOK ONLINE

20 February 2023, Norwegian Spirit, 12 night one way cruise Auckland | Tauranga | Napier | Wellington | Lyttelton (Christchurch) | Dunedin | Milford Sound | Melbourne | Burnie, Tasmania | Eden | Sydney

Last Minute Cruise Deal with Free at Sea Bonus Package from $1955 pp  share twin Balcony rooms from $3564 pp share twin

BOOK NOW GET FREE DRINKS, FREE WIFI, SHORE EXCURSION CREDIT, SPECIALTY DINING PACK & MORE 22 February 2023, Cunard Queen Elizabeth, 6 night Luxury Cruise Package Auckland | Bay of Islands (Paihia) | Melbourne , Enjoy a luxury overnight Melbourne city stay before your included flights back to Auckland Last Minute Luxury Cruise Package from $1699 pp  share twin Balcony rooms from $2219 pp share twin 

BOOK NOW LIMITED SPACE ON THIS LUXURY PACKAGE OFFER

23 February 2023, Seabourn Odyssey, 14 night Ultra Luxury one way cruise Auckland | Tauranga | Gisborne | Port Chalmers (Dunedin) | Timaru | Lyttelton (Christchurch) | Wellington | Nelson | New Plymouth | Sydney Last Minute Ultra Luxury Cruise Deal, Suite from $5417 pp share twin Veranda Suites from $7733 pp share twin BOOK NOW INCLUDES DRINKS, WIFI & MORE

25 February 2023, Noordam, 14 night one way cruise Auckland | Tauranga | Napier | Picton & Marlborough Sounds | Wellington | Lyttelton (Christchurch) | Port Chalmers (Dunedin) | Hobart | Melbourne | Sydney

Last Minute Cruise Deal from $1633 pp  share twin Balcony rooms from $2589 pp share twin

26 February 2023, Quantum of the Seas, 5 night Whitsundays Getaway Brisbane | Airlie Beach (Overnight stay) | Brisbane Last Minute Cruise Deal from $558 pp share twin Balcony rooms from $884 pp share twin

26 February 2023, Regent Seven Seas Explorer, 16 Nights, Bangkok to Tokyo  Laem Chabang (Bangkok), Thailand | Koh Kut Kood island, Thailand | Nha Trang, Vietnam | Corin, Palawan | Manila, Philippines | Kao-Hsiung, Taiwan | Keelung (Taipei) | Kagoshima, Kyushu | Kochi | Kobe (Kyoto overnight stay) | Shimizu | Tokyo All Inclusive Ultra Luxury cruise

Veranda Suite Was from $22,970 pp Share twin You Save 40% Now from $13,119 pp Share twin Talk to our team for connecting flight options BOOK NOW FOR ALL INCLUSIVE ULTRA LUXURY

Super Cheap Round Trip cruises from Brisbane, from 3 - 11 nights, from $299pp Grab yourself a super cheap last minute Carnival Luminosa Fun Break, they make the perfect good times add on to a Queensland holiday VIEW FEB -  23 APRIL 23 CRUISES

16 March 2023, Norwegian Spirit, 12 night one way cruise  Auckland | Tauranga | Napier | Wellington | Lyttelton (Christchurch) | Dunedin | Milford Sound | Melbourne | Burnie, Tasmania | Eden | Sydney Last Minute Cruise Deal from $2405 pp share twin Balcony rooms from $4661 pp share twin

BOOK NOW GET FREE DRINKS, FREE WIFI, SHORE EXCURSION CREDIT< SPECIALTY DINING PACKAGE & MORE

21 March 2023, Seabourn Odyssey, 14 night one way cruise * Last few suites * Sydney | Moreton Island | Airlie Beach | Townsville | Cairns | Noumea, New Caledonia | Lifou Island, New Caledonia | Lautoka, Fiji

Last Minute Luxury Cruise Deal from $5005 pp share twin  Veranda Suites from $6163 pp share twin

BOOK NOW  INCLUDES DRINKS,  WIFI & MORE

25 March 2023, Noordam, 14 night one way cruise Auckland | Tauranga | Napier | Picton | Wellington | Lyttelton (Christchurch) | Port Chalmers (Dunedin) | Hobart | Melbourne | Sydney Last Minute Cruise Deal from $1633 pp share twin Balcony rooms from $2851 pp share twin 

25 March 2023, Noordam, 41 night cruise over, fly back package   Auckland | Tauranga | Napier | Picton & Marlborough Sounds | Wellington | Lyttelton (Christchurch) | Port Chalmers (Dunedin) | Hobart | Melbourne | Sydney | Mare, New Caledonia | Ile Des Pins, New Caledonia | Lautoka, Fiji | Savusavu, Fiji | Pago Pago, American Samoa | Hilo, Hawaii | Honolulu | Nawiliwili, Kauai | Vancouver (2 Night City stay)

Last Minute Cruise Package from $8599 pp Twin Share Balcony rooms from $13,949 pp Twin Share

BOOK NOW INCLUDES FLIGHT BACK TO NZ

27 March 23, 8 nights Roundtrip from Brisbane to Vanuatu & New Caledonia Quantum of the Seas Interior Rooms from  $847 pp  Twin Share Balcony Rooms from   $1100 pp Twin Share BOOK ONLINE

29 March 2023, Grand Princess, 10 night Fly, Stay, Cruise, Package Fly Auckland to Sydney and enjoy a 2 night city stay before cruising back Sydney, Picton & Marlborough Sounds, Wellington, Napier, Tauranga, Auckland Last Minute Cruise Package from $2199 pp Twin Share Balcony rooms from $3369 pp Twin Share

BOOK NOW INCLUDES FLIGHT FROM NZ

02 April 2023, Majestic Princess, 7 night Fly, Stay, Cruise, Package Fly Auckland to Sydney and enjoy a 2 night city stay before cruising back Sydney, Bay of Islands, Tauranga, Auckland Last Minute Cruise Package from $1699 pp Twin Share Balcony Rooms from $2119 pp Twin Share

04 April 2023, Seabourn Odyssey, 12 night one way cruise * Last few suites * Lautoka, Fiji | Dravuni Island, Fiji | Savusavu, Fiji | Apia, Samoa | Pago Pago, American Samoa | Raiatea, French Polynesia | Moorea, French Polynesia | Huahine, French Polynesia | Papeete, Tahiti

Last Minute Luxury Cruise Deal from $3729 pp share twin  Veranda Suites from $4887 pp share twin

BOOK NOW INCLUDES DRINKS, WIFI & MORE

08 April 2023, Grand Princess, 23 night cruise over, fly back package Auckland | Bay Of Islands (Paihia) | Pago Pago, American Samoa | Papeete, Tahiti, French Polynesia | Honolulu | Lahaina, Maui | San Francisco (2 night city stay including transfers) Fly back to Auckland

Last Minute Cruise Package from $5499pp share twin Balcony rooms from $9089 pp share twin US$385 Free Spending Money per room, Room Location Upgrade & Specialty Dining Vouchers x 2 

09 April 2023, Majestic Princess, 24 night cruise over, fly back package Auckland | Papeete, Tahiti, French Polynesia | Lahaina, Maui | Honolulu, Oahu | Kona, Hawaii | Los Angeles (2 night stay in Los Angeles including transfers) Fly back to Auckland

Last Minute Cruise Package from $4599pp share twin Balcony rooms from $5955pp share twin  US$385 Free Spending Money per room, Room Location Upgrade & Specialty Dining Vouchers x 2

  10 April 2023, Quantum of the Seas, 22 night Fly, Stay, Cruise package Fly to Brisbane & enjoy a 2night stay before you join Quantum of the Seas for your Brisbane, Papeete (Tahiti), Moorea (overnight), Kailua Kona (Hawaii), Honolulu cruise. Then spend 3 nights in Waikiki post cruise to chillax before your included flight back to Auckland

Last Minute Cruise Package from $3999pp share twin Balcony rooms from $4685pp share twin Space is strictly limited on this amazing offer so get in quick  BOOK NOW INCLUDES FLIGHTS FROM AUCKLAND

Quick Tip ! If you are ready to grab a last minute deal then check your Passport is up to date, most countries require six months validity at the end of your holiday. Print our your Covid-19 vaccination certificate so you have proof of your vaccination status if required.  Some countries now require proof of your Travel Insurance cover on arrival, talk to our team if you require pricing for a policy to cover your cruise package & destinations visited

Talk to our Kiwi Cruise Specialists on Freephone 0800 99 44 88

T&C. Last Minute Cruise specials are normally payable in full at time of booking and are none refundable. Please ensure your passport will have at least six months validity at the end of your holiday. Some destinations now require mandatory travel insurance. Full vaccination for covid 19 is required for the majority of destinations & cruise lines featured. Individual cruise line terms & conditions apply based on the cruise line booked. Some cruise lines charge additional merchant fees for payment by credit card. All prices shown are in NZD and are indicative only, final pricing will show in your shopping basket at time of booking and will be based on current availability at time of booking. Last minute offers are available until sold out and may be withdrawn at any time without notice. Bookings with children will be subject to availability of suitable child places at time of booking. When booking guarantee rooms, the specific rooms will be allocated by the cruise line prior to check in, no special requests are allowed with this type of room. Note guarantee room will be the grade booked or better and can be anywhere on the ship, some Oceanview and Balcony guarantee rooms may have obstructed views.

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