For cheapest cruise prices, book early or late? Report reveals the sweet spot

What’s the best way to save money on your next cruise: book early or late? Cruise companies tell us our best bet is to make a decision early. They release itineraries 18 months in advance and urge us to take advantage of early-bird specials. That’s the best way to get the cabin and itinerary we want, they say.

But friends brag that they booked at the last minute and saved hundreds, or even thousands, depending on the trip and the line.

What’s the best strategy?

A new report by online retailer Cruisewatch (cruisewatch.com) has some surprising answers. The magic number, according to the study, is 35 days before a voyage, which yields up to 59% off the price of your ticket

“Determining the right moment to book a cruise is the crucial factor,” said Markus Stumpe, chief executive of Cruisewatch.

The website analyzed prices for more than 25,000 cruise sailings departing in 2018. The highest discounts for major cruise lines usually can be found within 70 days before the cruise leaves. “However, there are significant differences between the major cruise lines regarding timing and discounts,” the study says.

Cruise price discounts for the major cruise lines range from 22% up to as much as 59%, according to Cruisewatch. Here’s a rundown of what you can expect to find for last-minute discounts:

• Holland America Line offers the highest discounts at 59%
• Norwegian Cruise Line and Princess Cruises, each 55%
• Azamara Club Cruises, 54%
• Cunard, 52%
• Celebrity Cruises, 46%
• Royal Caribbean Cruises, 36%
• Costa Cruise Line, 31%
• Carnival Cruise Line, 25%
• Disney Cruise Line, 24%
• MSC Cruises 22%

“You should always book short-term to get these kinds of discounts,” the study says, adding that you can often get hot deals in the last 10 days before departure with lines such as Holland America, Norwegian and Princess Cruises.

Cruisewatch also analyzed the discounts offered for each type of cabin. Interior cabins had the largest discounts, followed by ocean view and balcony cabins. Suites receive the lowest discounts of all cabin types.

“It pays to be a little flexible, especially regarding cabin type or cruise ship, unless you are looking for a specific cruise itinerary,” said Stumpe.

Cruisewatch offers consumers a free price drop monitoring system which notifies you automatically when prices are reduced or when good deals are available. The website also offers free forecasts on when to book a cruise for the best price.