Wave Season — which encompasses the first three months of the year — is the best time of the year to book a cruise deal. Cruise lines generously hand out onboard credits, fare reductions, and other perks. It’s not too late to cash in on some of these promotions. We’ve rounded up some cruises that are worth the value — all departing from Florida. From budget to splurge, take a look and book while you have the chance.
Save
Yearning for a quick getaway? Royal Caribbean’s three- and four-night Bahamas sailings could be the right vacation — at the right price — for you. As part of the line's "Wow" sale, cruises are 30 percent off and start at $208 per person. You'll sail from Port Canaveral, outside of Orlando, and your departure may also be eligible for additional onboard credits and savings. Check specific sail dates for details.
One of the splashiest debuts last year, the Miami-based MSC Seaside features some fun and innovative amenities: a high-tech waterslide, a Roy Yamaguchi-helmed Asian fusion restaurant, and a set of curvy walkways from which you can see the ocean below. The Save and Sail Balcony promotion caters specifically to passengers sailing on this ship. The 7-night Caribbean voyage, which stops at Nassau, Bahamas; San Juan, Puerto Rico; and Philipsburg, St. Maarten starts at $699 per person for an ocean view cabin ($719 with a drinks package). Book by May 31.
Spring
Celebrity Cruises just extended their “Sail Beyond” promotion, which includes savings of up to $300, complimentary drinks, and unlimited Wifi onboard. The 9-night Southern Caribbean cruise (departing from Miami on August 25) is among the eligible cruises. The itinerary includes stops in Key West and each of the ABC islands (Aruba, Bonaire, Curacao) before heading back to Miami. Here, the higher the cabin category, the higher the savings. Reserving a Concierge-class or AquaClass suite (From $1,549 and $1,849 per person, respectively, is just a tad more expensive than a standard balcony cabin, which starts at $1,399). Translation? A roomier cabin, priority restaurant seating, afternoon canapés, and sparkling wine are included with Concierge class. And for AquaClass guests? Aromatherapy diffusers, pillow menus, and passes to the thermal suite are included. Book by February 28.
There’s nothing better than a stateroom with a view. And thanks to Holland America’s View & Verandah deal, you don’t have to settle for an inside cabin. The line’s 10-day Panama Canal Sunfarer, departing November 4, is one of the cruises valid for the promotion. Starting at $949 per person, it leaves from Fort Lauderdale and passes through the famous waterway, among other ports such as Aruba and Puerto Limon, Costa Rica. Book a date before the end of the year — prices go up $450 and more starting 2019. Book by February 28.
Splurge
Azamara Club Cruises’ Half Off Second Guest and Free Wifi offer is a way for travelers to check off their bucket-list destinations. The 10-night Circle Cuba Voyage swings by Santiago de Cuba, the birthplace of Castro’s revolution, and the Cuban capital of Havana, among other ports around the island. Sailings start at $3,099 per person, and include several overnights in port. What’s special about this new cruise is that’s it’s only being offered this year. The promotion is available for Club Oceanview Room staterooms and higher. Book by February 28.
What’s great about Silversea’s cruises is they’re pure luxury, from the butler service and bathtubs to the top-notch wines served at dinner. Don’t worry too much about the initial sticker shock — the price includes many services and perks that aren’t included on cruises that initially seem more affordable. Our top pick: the 10-day Caribbean voyage on the Silver Whisper, leaving October 31 from Fort Lauderdale, which anchors at lesser known ports such as Gustavia, St.Barts; Road Town, Tortola; and Roseau, Dominica — and which also includes free airfare (starting price: $3,780 per person). Similar itineraries are offered in 2019 — opt for a departure that’s also good for the early booking bonus, and you’ll get another 10 percent off the fare. Book by February 28 for the early savings promotion; March 31 for free airfare.