Black Friday sale on cruise vacations

Cruise lines have increasingly joined in on the excitement of Black Friday, Cyber Monday, and the broader holiday shopping season by offering significant discounts and special promotions. Here’s an overview of what you can typically expect:

1. Types of Discounts & Offers

• Discounted Rates: Many cruise lines slash their prices significantly for bookings made during Black Friday and Cyber Monday, sometimes with up to 50-75% off on select sailings.
• Onboard Credit: In addition to lower rates, many cruise companies offer onboard credits (e.g., $100-$500 per cabin) which can be used for purchases like specialty dining, excursions, spa treatments, or drinks.
• Free Upgrades: Some cruise lines may offer cabin upgrades (like an oceanview room for the price of an inside cabin) or perks like free Wi-Fi, drink packages, or dining experiences.
• Kids Sail Free: Family-friendly lines, such as Royal Caribbean, might have “Kids Sail Free” promotions, which allow children to sail at no additional cost when sharing a cabin with two paying adults.
• Reduced Deposits: To entice bookings, cruise lines often lower the deposit requirement, making it easier for travelers to secure a spot with less upfront payment.
• Bonus Loyalty Points: For frequent cruisers, certain lines may offer extra loyalty points during the Black Friday sale, accelerating progress toward rewards like free cruises, upgrades, or discounts.

2. Participating Cruise Lines & Promotions

• Royal Caribbean: Typically features deep discounts, onboard credits, and often a “Kids Sail Free” promotion.
• Carnival Cruise Line: Often includes discounts on sailings, reduced deposits, and onboard spending credits.
• Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL): Common deals include the “Free at Sea” promotion with perks like free drinks, specialty dining, and excursions.
• Celebrity Cruises: May provide up to 75% off the second guest, along with perks like free Wi-Fi and drink packages.
• Princess Cruises: Includes reduced fares, onboard credits, and possibly discounted airfare for select sailings.
• Holland America Line: Offers a combination of discounts, onboard credits, and sometimes free specialty dining or excursions.
• Luxury Lines (Oceania, Regent Seven Seas, Silversea): These lines often bundle their Black Friday deals with all-inclusive packages, adding extra value like included shore excursions, premium dining, and free airfare.

3. Tips for Booking

• Plan Ahead: While these sales typically start on Black Friday, some deals may be available earlier or extend through Cyber Monday and beyond. Keep an eye out for early access or pre-sale events.
• Flexibility is Key: The best deals are often for specific dates and itineraries, so being flexible with travel dates can help you snag the lowest prices.
• Book Quickly: Popular sailings and stateroom categories (like suites or oceanview rooms) can sell out quickly during these promotions.
• Read the Fine Print: Pay attention to terms and conditions, especially regarding cancellations, refunds, and changes, as some Black Friday deals may have stricter policies.

4. How to Find the Best Deals

5. 2024 Trends & Expectations

• For 2024, cruise lines are likely to ramp up their Black Friday offers, given the resurgence of travel demand. Expect competitive pricing for popular destinations like the Caribbean, Mediterranean, and Alaska.
• There’s also an increasing focus on sustainable and eco-friendly cruises, so some lines may highlight promotions on their newest, more sustainable ships or eco-friendly itineraries.

Overall, Black Friday is one of the best times of the year to book a cruise, whether you’re a first-time cruiser or a seasoned traveler looking for an upgrade.