What is wave season?
“Wave season” is the cruise industry’s name for the busy booking period early in the year, traditionally from January to March. Many people plan their summer and autumn cruises then, and cruise lines compete for bookings with promotions.
It isn’t the only time deals appear: many lines also run Black Friday and Cyber Monday sales in late November, and offers are released all year round.
Typical wave season offers
Rather than simply cutting fares, promotions often add value:
- Reduced deposits.
- Onboard spending credit.
- Included drinks, Wi‑Fi, gratuities or specialty dining.
- Reduced fares for third and fourth guests in a cabin.
- Cabin upgrades.
How to tell if a deal is really good
- Track the fare beforehand. Note the price of a sailing you like a few weeks before, so you can see whether a “sale” is genuinely lower.
- Value the extras honestly. A free drinks package is only worth it if you’d have bought one.
- Compare the total cost, including gratuities, taxes and getting to the port.
- Read the terms. Promotional fares can have stricter cancellation or change rules.
- Check price-drop policies. Some lines or booking sites let you move to a lower fare if prices fall before final payment.
Plan ahead now
If you’re thinking about a cruise next year, shortlist two or three itineraries now. Browse Caribbean, Mediterranean and Alaska cruises to see typical fares, so you can spot a real deal when the promotions start.
Last updated: 13 October 2026
