What is the latest to book a cruise before Sailing?

[Gamecock_Cruiser]

We are supposed to fly from Charlotte to Las Vegas on Thursday. Currently, flights are all over the places departing Charlotte to Vegas. IF, and that is a BIG IF, our flight gets canceled soon enough, how late can we book a cruise for Thursday? If it is canceled by midnight tomorrow night, that leaves us plenty of time to drive to Orlando for a 4 night cruise that is the same dates as our Vegas trip. 

 

And if this was to happen, we still need a negative Covid Test even though vaccinated, correct?

[silversneakers]

Call the cruise lines directly to ask that question as they may also have security issues for late bookings.

[SurfCat]

Not sure if this is the standard, but our last cruise was open until two nights before departure.  We left on a Thursday (10/21) and I did a mock booking on Tuesday night.  Checked on Wednesday morning and it was not available.  Even called my PVP and she said it was closed.

[Essiesmom]

Before COVID you could book in the morning (by phone) and sail in the afternoon.  But with the timing of COVID test requirements, two days is probably the limit.  EM

[Gamecock_Cruiser]

Thanks to all. Flights are looking a lot better today. We were getting worried the last few days, but kind of planning a plan B just in case the plane isn't a go.

[bobbyandali]

I once did 9 days before.

I do know someone that used to (this was several years ago) show up at the cruise terminal, bags packed, and would try to book right then and there. I'd say every 3 times he did it... two he was told sorry, and one he got a TREMENDOUS good deal.

With security, COVID, etc, probably can't do that anymore. 

[Essiesmom]

7 hours ago, bobbyandali said:

I once did 9 days before.

I do know someone that used to (this was several years ago) show up at the cruise terminal, bags packed, and would try to book right then and there. I'd say every 3 times he did it... two he was told sorry, and one he got a TREMENDOUS good deal.

With security, COVID, etc, probably can't do that anymore. 

It’s not so much security and COVID.  It’s been many, many years since checkin personnel had access to cabin availability, or ability to accept payment.  It’s also why you can’t get an upgrade at checkin.  EM