What Day of the Week Do Cruise Prices Drop?

By Michael Ferguson

Are you planning a cruise and looking for the best deals? You might have heard that there’s a specific day of the week when cruise prices drop.

But is it true? Let’s find out.

Understanding Cruise Pricing

Before we dive into the topic, let’s understand how cruise pricing works. Unlike other travel industries, such as airlines and hotels, cruise lines don’t have a fixed pricing structure. The price of a cruise can vary depending on several factors, including:

  • The time of year
  • The length of the cruise
  • The itinerary
  • The ship and its amenities
  • The demand for the sailing date

Do Cruise Prices Drop on a Specific Day?

Now, coming back to the question – is there really a specific day of the week when cruise prices drop? The answer is not straightforward. While some travel experts claim that prices are cheaper on certain days, others disagree.

According to an analysis by CruiseWatch, a website that tracks cruise prices, there’s no significant difference in prices between weekdays and weekends. However, they recommend booking your cruise at least six months in advance to get the best price.

Other Factors That Affect Cruise Prices

Apart from the day of the week, several other factors can affect cruise prices. Let’s take a look at them:

Time of Year:

Cruise prices tend to be higher during peak season (summer and holidays) and lower during shoulder season (spring and fall) and off-season (winter).

Length of Cruise:

Shorter cruises tend to be cheaper than longer ones.

Itinerary:

Cruises with popular destinations or unique itineraries may cost more.

Ship and Amenities:

Newer ships with more amenities, such as water parks, specialty restaurants, and spas, may cost more.

Booking in Advance:

Booking your cruise early (6-12 months in advance) can help you get the best price.

Tips for Finding the Best Cruise Deals

Now that you know about the various factors that affect cruise prices let’s take a look at some tips for finding the best cruise deals:

  • Sign up for cruise line newsletters to get alerts about promotions and discounts.
  • Book your cruise during shoulder season or off-season.
  • Consider repositioning cruises, which are one-way sailings that occur when a ship is moved from one region to another.
  • Be flexible with your travel dates and itinerary.
  • Compare prices across different travel agencies and websites.

In Conclusion

While there’s no specific day of the week when cruise prices drop significantly, booking early and choosing the right time of year can help you get the best deal. Remember to keep an eye on promotions and discounts and compare prices across different platforms to find the perfect cruise at an affordable price. Happy sailing!