What is the latest possible booking date for a cruise?

[CFIGuy]

I work for an airline, so my schedule changes every month. However, I typically get at least one period with 3-4 days off in a row per month. Wondering how late you can book a cruise? Not worth it for me to book in advance, because my schedule is always changing. If I go on a 5 day cruise during a period with 4 days off, I only need to use 1 vacation day. Thanks for your help.

[April-in-NC]

I'm not 100% sure, but since the cruise lines have to have their passenger list submitted 3 days before sailing, I would think that you would be able to book as quickly as 4 days prior. This is assuming that you can immediately fill out the online check-in with your flight and passport information for everyone traveling.

[wolfcathorse]

I thought it was 10 days, as that's when they have to submit the manifest to Homeland Security. Go to RCI's website and see what dates are open yet for any ship..once they get past that cut off date, they'll pull the sailing off the reservation site.

[Rancher Dave]

Often you can still book the day before. The final list to Homeland Security goes hours before the sailing. I'd not wait that long and expect to find a cabin though, but if you get your schedule early the last week of Feb, you can still then book any March cruise you would want..

[cruisinfanatic]

You can book the day before, no problem.