Cruise Bookings Are Exploding: Why Now Is The Perfect Time To Book

March 14, 2023Tom Spruce

If you’re wondering “when’s the best time to book a cruise?” The industry is booming right now, and here’s why that’s a good thing for you.

When is the best time to book a cruise and sail off into the sunset? Photo by Alonso Reyes on Unsplash

Cruise bookings are off the charts at the moment (pun intended). Which means prices may be about to increase across the industry. So, right now might well be the best time to book a cruise.

Whether you fancy a demure jaunt around some of the top cities in Europe or you’d prefer an all-out Caribbean cruise adventure. There’s no doubt that now’s the time to strike.

But why is the sailing so good at the moment? And how long should you leave it to book up your ideal trip? We’ll reveal all.

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What Makes Now The Best Time To Book a Cruise?

Travel agencies are saying that this year’s “Wave Season” booking numbers have hit record highs. But what’s making everyone so doolally for cruising?

Industry insiders are saying it’s the perfect storm of pent-up demand following a fallow few years during Covid. Meanwhile, others are suggesting that the incredible market prices are to blame. We suggest it’s probably a culmination of the two.

However, another major point to mention is the fact that cruise ships are now operating at 100% capacity again. As of the start of 2023, ships are back to filling up their staterooms after operating at reduced numbers between 2020-2022.

So What exactly is wave season and what makes it such a good time to book?

Royal Caribbean cruise ship docked at an island port — Wave Season has seen prices for cruise plummet, while demand rockets. Photo by Fernando Jorge on Unsplash

What Is Wave Season? And Why Is It The Cheapest Time To Book A Cruise?

Wave Season runs from mid-January to the end of March every year and it’s the time of the year when cruise firms drop their prices and introduce promotional offers in a bid to fill their ships.

The travel industry as a whole enjoys sales and increased bookings through the first month of the year. But Wave Season stretches on through Q1 to provide a longer booking window for cruisers looking to grab a break.

Depending on the company and destination you want to explore, you can snag a real bargain during the start to the year. And the 2023 season looks to be hitting at the right time with booking aplenty rolling in.

But, increased booking numbers and ending promotions will mean that prices start to steadily rise from here on out. So what cruises are proving popular?

Cruise ship docked off an island an sunset — Wave Season runs for longer than the land holiday peak season. Photo by Fernando Jorge on Unsplash

Is It Just Caribbean Cruises That Are Popular In Wave Season?

Trips like Caribbean Cruise & Stay adventures are always going to be popular as they offer the bonus luxury of adding a beachy stay to your watery voyage.

But European cruises are also proving popular throughout Wave Season. In fact, more northerly sailings are increasing in numbers too, such as Norwegian Fjord Cruises. Plus, river journeys across Europe and along iconic locations like the Nile are also getting cruisers hot under the collar.

This ability to see multiple views of a destination or region are the main reasons why people love to get out on the open seas. However, when you add in expectations of 5-star service levels and a cheap booking price. It starts becoming a no-brainer.

Tulips and Windmills River Cruise — You don’t need to be out on the open sea. Check out a Tulips and Windmills Cruise through central Europe

How Far In Advance Should You Book A Cruise?

Generally speaking, the best time to book a cruise is 6-12 months in advance of your sailing. This will allow you to get the best price. But it will also mean that if you take advantage of the cheaper prices during Wave Season, you could have a nice summer escape on the books.

You might think that, like land holidays, booking last-minute cruises means you can get them for a better price. However, this is not always the case.

While you may be able to find a bargain on a last-minute cruise as the line works to fill the ship. We’d really recommend only waiting until 60-90 days before the cruise sets sail to get the best price. After that, you risk losing a good deal or missing out completely.

Cruise liners wait in port at a Caribbean island — Don’t leave it too long to get your ideal voyage booked up. Photo by Fernando Jorge on Unsplash

Start Cruising Some Deals

So the best time to book a cruise is right now and your journey of discovery across the seas starts here. Wave Season is still upon us, so why not explore the cruising options around you?

Plus, it could be made even cheaper with our Subscriber Exclusive offers pulling the price down even further. Click the button below and sign up and access our incredible watery getaways.