Cruise sales

[Skippy442]

Are Black Friday sales better than other holiday sales? I'm deciding whether to wait for Black Friday or book now for a cruise in May 2024.

What are the benefits of booking a future cruise on board a current cruise?

Also, if the price drops and I rebook (before final payment date), do I lose the perks from the first booking (e.g., OBC)?

Thanks

[LHT28]

Depends on the cruise line

some will allow you to get the cruise repriced   which may or may not  drop the perks

I would ask on the cruise line forum of your preferred line

JMO

 

[Mum2Mercury]

My experience is mostly with Royal Caribbean.  I don't know that all lines are alike. 

 

- Black Friday sales are not a great thing right now.  We're in a seller's market, and prices are just high-higher-highest at the moment. 

- If you do find a "sale", do the math.  Buy-one-get-one-free isn't always a bargain, for example.  They may claim that the drink package is "whatever percentage off", but they'll jack up the price before they take that percentage off.  Always do the math.  

- The one universal truth is that buying "extras" ahead of time -- shore excursions, drink packages -- is always cheaper ahead of time.  

- Booking onboard will get your some OBC -- usually about $100 if you're talking a standard room for a 7-night cruise.  BUT do your homework before sailing:  take your time to choose the cruise you want and go in with an idea (or two) of what you want to book.  You can also buy a Next Cruise without a specific date.  

- If you find a price drop (again, not likely right now -- seller's market), do not cancel /rebook.  Instead, call in and ask for a price match.  Handling it this way, you will not lose your OBC.  Calling can be a hassle -- call late at night.  They're open later than you'd expect.  

- Do not wait.  Go ahead and book now, and IF you see a lower price later, call in for a price match. 

- If you're looking for the lowest price, avoid the newest, mega-ships.  Wonder, Icon and their ilk will cost considerably more than older, medium-sized ships such as Independence and Liberty.  

- Consider a "lesser" room to save money.  Now that they kids are out of the house, we're find with an Inside Guarantee, and the prices are certainly lower.