How to find last-minute cruise deals (2025)

Knowing how to find last-minute cruise deals can help you save on great cruises and therefore, go on more trips! We share ways to find those cruise deals and get cruising. 

Cruises are a great way to explore multiple destinations while enjoying all-inclusive accommodations and entertainment. Plus, you get to explore contrasting, exciting places; whether it is a Norwegian Fjord cruise to an Indonesian cruise, there are wonderful choices for everyone. 

However, Cruise lines operate on a strict schedule and aim to maximize occupancy. Empty cabins represent lost revenue because, once a ship sails, the opportunity to sell those rooms disappears. To fill up remaining spaces, cruise lines often offer substantial discounts shortly before departure, which is why we can find last-minute cruise deals. Let’s look at how we find them!

How to Find Last-Minute Cruise Deals

Be Flexible with Your Schedule

Flexibility is the key to finding great last-minute cruise deals. Most discounted cruises depart within a month or even a week of booking. If you can leave at short notice, you’ll have access to a wide range of offers; especially ideal if you live near the popular departure ports. 

• Timing: Deals often emerge for off-peak travel periods such as late spring or fall (shoulder seasons). Cruises during these times are less crowded, and discounts are more common.
• Departure Dates: If you have flexibility with your travel dates, you can align your schedule with the cheapest options available.

Choose Nearby Departure Ports

Living near a cruise departure port can significantly reduce your travel costs and open more opportunities for last-minute bookings.

Flights booked on short notice tend to be expensive, so it’s best to focus on cruises leaving from ports within driving distance. Major ports in the U.S. include:

• Miami, Florida
• Fort Lauderdale, Florida
• Galveston, Texas
• Los Angeles, California
• Seattle, Washington

If you’re flexible with departure points, you can also score deals on cruises sailing out of ports in Canada, Europe, or Asia.

Use Cruise Deal Websites and Alerts

Several websites specialize in last minute cruise deals, making it easy to compare options. Sign up for email alerts from these sites to stay updated on last-minute offers:

• CruiseDirect: Provides a wide variety of discounted cruises with an easy-to-use search engine.
• Vacations To Go: Offers a “90-Day Ticker” that lists discounted cruises departing within the next three months.
• Cruise Critic: Features forums and deal sections where travelers share tips and find discounted cruises.
• Expedia and Travelocity: Include cruises in their broader travel deals.

Follow Cruise Lines Directly

Many cruise lines post last-minute deals directly on their websites. Some even have dedicated sections for special offers, such as:

• Carnival Cruise Line: Known for budget-friendly deals, Carnival frequently offers markdowns close to departure.
• Royal Caribbean: Offers a range of promotions, especially during off-peak seasons.
• Norwegian Cruise Line: Features “Sail Away” rates on unsold cabins.
• MSC Cruises: Has competitive pricing, particularly for Mediterranean itineraries.

Subscribe to newsletters or follow their social media channels to be the first to know about promotions.

Leverage Travel Agencies

Travel agencies can be a great resource for finding last-minute cruise deals. Agencies often have relationships with cruise lines and access to special promotions not listed on public websites. Some even offer additional perks, such as onboard credits or free upgrades.

Agencies we have found helpful are:

• Avoya Travel
• American Express Travel
• Costco Travel

Consider Repositioning Cruises

Repositioning cruises happen at various times of the year, when a ship transitions between regions, such as moving from the Caribbean to Alaska for the summer season.

These cruises can give you huge discounts because they have fewer port stops. While they’re less structured than traditional itineraries, and may not always offer the same amount of on-board activities, repositioning cruises provide an excellent way to experience the amenities of a cruise ship at a fraction of the cost.

Opt for Guarantee Cabins

A “guarantee cabin” booking allows you to secure a room in a specific category (interior, oceanview, balcony, or suite) without assigning a specific cabin until closer to the sailing date.

This option often comes at a discounted rate because you’re giving up the ability to choose your cabin location. 

Be Open to Different Destinations

Last-minute deals are often tied to itineraries with lower demand. Instead of holding out for a specific destination, remain open to alternatives.

Popular last-minute destinations include:

• Caribbean: Consistently offers last-minute deals due to the abundance of cruises in this region.
• Alaska: Deals are common during the start and end of the season (May and September). You may not have the best of weather but exploring the region is still magical and much cheaper. 
• Europe: Mediterranean cruises often feature discounts in the shoulder seasons.
• Asia: Whilst living in Asia, we have noticed more and more cruises becoming available in the region. Plus, many options include extras like open-bars and money off excursions. Check out the Asia options, especially through South East Asia like Singapore, Thailand and Vietnam. 

Join Cruise Line Loyalty Programs

Cruise lines reward loyal customers with exclusive deals, early access to promotions, and onboard perks. Signing up for these programs is free and can give you an edge when last-minute deals are released. 

Look for Package Deals

Some travel agencies and websites bundle last-minute cruises with airfare, hotel stays, or excursions, making the overall trip more affordable. These packages can save you money while making the trip planning easier and more manageable. 

Travel Solo or in Small Groups

Last-minute deals are ideal for solo travelers or small groups who can easily find a cabin without complex coordination. Larger groups may struggle to secure multiple rooms at the same rate.

We personally found that booking as a couple means we can find the best last minute cruise deals but when trying to book for us and our families, it was much harder to find deals for all of us. 

Consider Shorter Cruises

Shorter itineraries (3-5 days) are more likely to have last-minute availability and better last minute cruise deals. These cruises are perfect for quick getaways and can often be booked for less than $100 per night, especially from Florida.

Be Aware of Additional Costs

Crusing on a budget is dooable but just remember the additional costs and fees. These include:

• Taxes and port fees
• Gratuities
• Shore excursions
• Specialty dining and drinks
• Flights (if required)

Factor these into your budget to avoid surprises.

Stay Ready to Book

Last-minute cruise deals don’t last long, so be ready to book when they become available.

Have your travel documents (passport, visa if required) ready, and ensure you’re financially prepared to book when you spot a deal. Acting quickly is essential.

Finding last-minute cruise deals doesn’t have to be as hard as it may feel;  be flexible, do your research, and make quick decisions, so you can get the best price and cruise for you. Explore all regions, factor in those extra costs, and have a great cruise!