cheapest cruise lines in the world

Best Cruise Lines for the Money

With lodging, food and entertainment all included in one price, a vacation at sea is often a better value than a

With lodging, food and entertainment all included in one price, a vacation at sea is often a better value than a land-based getaway – if you choose wisely. To help you make the most of your travel budget, U.S. News ranked the following cruise lines based on a methodology that factors in itinerary affordability, amenities included in the base fare, health ratings and reputation among experts and travelers. Read on to learn more about this year's best cruise lines for the money, and be sure to check our latest cruise deals for an even more affordable vacation experience. 

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Virgin Voyages

Virgin Voyages may not seem like the most affordable offering at a glance, but it presents cruisers with supreme value. Base fares include all onboard dining, gratuities, Wi-Fi access, group fitness classes and more. Add those benefits to Virgin's ongoing sales, and you're looking at a top-notch experience for less. 

• 4.39 Overall Rating
• 3 Ships in Fleet

Celebrity Cruises

Celebrity Cruises' vessels offer the endless amenities and buffets of its competitors' megaships but maintain the service standard of smaller lines. Rates on Bahamas and Caribbean itineraries run less than $200 per person, and all-inclusive add-on packages are available.

• 4.36 Overall Rating
• 13 Ships in Fleet

Princess Cruises

Princess Cruises targets more adult travelers (especially on longer voyages) than family-oriented lines like Royal Caribbean International, but at similar prices. Along with lodging and select dining, fares cover activities like cooking demonstrations and educational lectures.

• 4.02 Overall Rating
• 15 Ships in Fleet

Royal Caribbean International

With more than 25 cruise ships, Royal Caribbean is one of the largest lines sailing the ocean today. Having the ability to accommodate thousands of guests per ship allows the company to keep rates low. In fact, travelers may find itineraries in popular destinations throughout the Caribbean, Mexico, the Bahamas and the Pacific Coast for around $250 per person.

• 4.17 Overall Rating
• 25 Ships in Fleet

Holland America Line

Cruisers will find this premium cruise line to be a pretty good bargain, with four-day Caribbean sailings often starting at less than $300 per person, and short voyages along the Pacific Coast coming in around $100 per person. But cutting costs doesn't mean skimping on service; Holland America ships offer individualized attention, free room service and all-inclusive package options.

• 4.14 Overall Rating
• 11 Ships in Fleet

MSC Cruises

MSC offers sailings from North American ports like Miami, New York City and Orlando, Florida, though the majority of its voyages depart from international locales. But even if you have to fly to a foreign port, you'll save money over a typical land vacation abroad. Mediterranean sailings can start at around $100 per person, and the line offers several deals and money-saving packages.

• 3.79 Overall Rating
• 22 Ships in Fleet

Carnival Cruise Line

Carnival specializes in budget-friendly fun, offering frequent, significant discounts on already low prices. In fact, itineraries for around $200 per person are the norm. Access to most of the ships' activities won't cost a penny, but keep in mind that some extras (like specialty restaurants, beverages and certain attractions) aren't covered in fares.

• 3.90 Overall Rating

Norwegian Cruise Line

With its popular, frequently running Free at Sea program, Norwegian offers travelers discounts on Wi-Fi, excursions, alcohol, airfare and more on top of its already low prices. And, similar to luxury lines, Norwegian ditches steadfast rules like assigned dining times, but costs a fraction of the price.

• 3.97 Overall Rating
• 19 Ships in Fleet

Cunard Line

While you may not expect to find a more opulent line like Cunard on this list, the cruise provider has a surprising number of relatively reasonable fares for upcoming sailings. Travelers can fully enjoy the line's old-world elegance knowing that room service, onboard activities and most dining options are included in the base price.

• 4.07 Overall Rating

Costa Cruises

A member of the Carnival family, Costa Cruises is primarily based in Europe. The fleet offers lower rates than its competitors, particularly for its Mediterranean itineraries (think: fares starting at less than $100 per person). Although it offers family-friendly amenities, Costa's ships are also well-suited to adults, with various entertainment options like theater shows and casinos.

• 3.50 Overall Rating
• 8 Ships in Fleet

Disclaimers about ship ratings: A ship’s Health Rating is based on vessel inspection scores published by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). If a ship did not receive a CDC score within 22 months prior to the calculation of its Overall Rating, its Health Rating appears as N/A; in such a case, the ship’s Overall Rating is calculated using the average Health Rating of all CDC-rated ships within the cruise line. All ship Traveler Ratings are based on ratings provided under license by Cruiseline.com.

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Best Budget Cruise Lines, Ranked

Best budget cruise lines.

Even if you make a point of earmarking money in your budget for vacations, the sticker shock can be hard to stomach. Between eating out, fun activities and all the little incidentals along the way, costs sure add up quickly.

If you’re looking for an exciting trip that won’t break the bank, why not go on a cruise? Everyone can do their own thing, coming together at mealtimes or for a dip in the pool. All-inclusive rates for accommodations, entertainment and food are often lower than what you'll find on land.

Luckily, U.S. News & World Report has done all the legwork for you when it comes to choosing the best cruise line for your wallet. It sifted through traveler ratings, expert reviews and health ratings from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (a must after the past few years) to come up with a list of the top nine budget-friendly cruise lines for the money.

9. Costa Cruises

Year founded:  1854

Headquarters:  Genoa, Italy

Number of destinations:  59

Note: Rankings come from the U.S. News & World Report's 2023 "Best Cruise Lines for the Money" report.

Bottom Line: Costa Cruises

Costa is one of the oldest cruise lines in the world and boasts particularly affordable Mediterranean itineraries. 

If you’re looking for a chance to meet people from outside the U.S. during your vacation, this is the cruise line to book. Since it's based in Italy, there’s an eclectic mix of passengers from the U.S. and countries in Europe as well as a diverse age range among travelers.

You can sail from three to 128 nights with Costa on a vessel that matches your style — some are smaller and more intimate, while others are larger and have a lively vibe. Either way, Costa has roughly one crew member for every three cruisers, so you’re guaranteed to receive quality service on your trip.

What Travelers Say About Costa Cruises

"Did the cruise meet expectations? Yes, on the whole, we enjoyed it. Some things were better than we expected and somethings as described in other reviews. Folks need to remember that you're often paying 50 percent less than in other lines to be on a Costa cruise. Would we book again, yes, I think we would. Will we book 'better' cruises as well? Yes we will [and have]." — ani4ani

Note: Reviews may be edited for punctuation, spelling and other grammatical errors.

Best Bang-for-Your-Buck Costa Cruises Trip

If you have the time for an extended trip, consider one of Costa’s transoceanic cruises . Sample itineraries include a 17-day cruise that starts in Savona, Italy and ends in the French Caribbean territory of Guadeloupe. 

Alternatively, you could sail from La Romana in the Dominican Republic to Marseilles in France.

8. Norwegian Cruise Line

Year founded:  1966

Headquarters:  Miami, Florida

Number of destinations:  490

Bottom Line: Norwegian Cruise Line

Norwegian gets high marks for being a fun, laid-back cruise line that won’t break the bank. It’s a top choice for both families and budget-friendly travelers. Why? Norwegian doesn’t have a lot of rules — there’s no dress code, no fixed dining assignments and a general “anything goes” atmosphere. 

Norwegian has 28 vessels in its fleet, accommodating from 1,936 to 4,266 passengers. Despite the large crowds, Norwegian says it has one crew member for every two to three travelers, so you’ll still get top-notch service.

Plus, you can pick from an array of journeys in destinations like Alaska, Cuba, Hawaii and many others. As a bonus, Norwegian has special cabins designed for solo travelers.

What Travelers Say About Norwegian Cruise Line

"We upgraded to the Penthouse Suite in the Haven; it was our very first Haven experience and it was spectacular! We cannot say a single bad thing about this cruise other than it wasn't long enough! We enjoyed every single minute of it but we especially loved the Haven bar each night. Before we'd go to dinner, we'd first go to the Haven bar and enjoy several cocktails. We were treated so well; our names and drink preferences were remembered, the staff just went out of their way to make sure all the little details were put in place and well executed." — HonkyTonkAngel

Best Bang-for-Your-Buck Norwegian Cruise Line Trip

You don’t need to have a lot of cash on hand to book a Norwegian trip — just $50 will reserve your spot in certain types of rooms (if you book early enough). Plus, the total price of your trip will be reasonable— a seven-day trip through the Hawaiian islands starts at just $2,051, for instance.

After departing from Honolulu, you’ll head to ports on Maui, Big Island and Kauai. Though you can certainly relax on the beach all you want, you can also take advantage of tons of other cool excursions, like a day spent touring a lavender farm and vodka distillery on Maui or a train trip through a plantation on Kauai.

Visiting Volcanoes National Park, hiking to waterfalls and participating in luaus are also highly recommended.

7. Holland America Line

Year founded:  1873

Headquarters:  Seattle, Washington

Number of destinations:  470

Bottom Line: Holland America

While not as cheap as some other lines on this list, Holland America is a bargain compared to its competitors in the upscale space, like Cunard and Silversea.

The line tends to attract older travelers who want a more traditional experience, but also offers family-friendly trips and has special offerings for kids. The Club HAL program, for instance, offers everything from sing-along storytimes for younger kiddos to ice-cream-eating contests for tweens.

You can cruise choose from a wide swath of worldwide destinations like Northern Europe, the Mediterranean, Australia and Asia. It has a fleet of 11 vessels ranging in size from 1,432 to 2,668 cruisers while maintaining a high level of service and a low passenger-to-crew ratio. Exciting onboard activities include mixology workshops, photography classes and cooking demonstrations.

What Travelers Say About Holland America

"Beautiful & immaculate ship, outstanding crew. Entertainment tried but not great, movies were not very good but sitting by the pool was beautiful. Main dining room was very good. Felt sad for the waitstaff - young and inexperienced, but happily they got it together by the end of the cruise. What they lacked in experience they made up with their eagerness to get things right, smiling faces & cheerful attitudes." — HAL Oldie

Best Bang-for-Your-Buck Holland America Line Trip

Up for a real adventure? Book one of Holland’s Grand Voyages , which offer a more immersive experience and tend to be longer than your average cruise. One must-book itinerary spans 24 days and visits ports in Japan, China, Vietnam and Singapore . Rates start at $4,899 per person — a very reasonable rate for such an extensive journey.

Along the way, you’ll have the opportunity to visit the Great Wall of China, explore the city life in Shanghai and visit Japan’s Taal Volcano, the smallest volcano in the world. There are several days at sea built into the journey, so you can dance the night away at B.B. King’s Blues Club and attend live cooking demonstrations and wine tastings.

Have less money to burn? Consider a seven-night eastern Caribbean cruise starting at just $549 per person.

6. Royal Caribbean International

Year founded:  1968

Number of destinations:  300

Bottom Line: Royal Caribbean

Not only is Royal Caribbean one of the largest cruise lines out there, but it’s also one of the friendliest to your bank account. Travelers may find itineraries to popular destinations for less than $200 per person.

With Royal Caribbean, you can choose from 26 total vessels — “smaller” ships accommodate up to 2,400 guests, while larger vessels can hold 6,700 travelers.

Whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway or a family vacation, Royal Caribbean offers a little something for everyone — there are adults-only pool areas, as well as entertainment options just for kids.

What Travelers Say About Royal Caribbean

"What we especially like about the Serenade was all the windows throughout the public areas wonderful for ocean watching — even from a set of elevators. There is also a true fully around the ship promenade deck on which you can actually get out to the helicopter pad and see the cruise from the bow of the ship. Great lounge chairs line both sides of this deck for quiet reading and relaxing.

The Centrum was beautiful and, during many of the days, single performers on piano or guitar entertained (we especially liked the pianist), instead of piped-in music. At night it was the main dance floor with a funk band...For the younger set, there was the DJ directed dance sets in the disco." — fan1965

Best Bang-for-Your-Buck Royal Caribbean International Trip

You can find some great deals on Royal Caribbean cruises. For as little as $208, take a four-night cruise from Pacific coastal cruise . You go from Los Angeles to Astoria, Oregon and make your way to Victoria and Vancouver in Canada.

You'll get to see how different each of these cities are, despite being in the same area. Get some fresh salmon in Astoria, visit the Royal British Museum in Victoria and enjoy urban green spaces in Vancouver.

5. Princess Cruises

Year founded:  1965

Headquarters:  Santa Clarita, California

Number of destinations:  330

Bottom Line: Princess Cruises

If you’re traveling on a budget and want to get away from the little ones, consider a trip with Princess . The cruise line is owned by Carnival and boasts similarly wallet-friendly rates. But unlike its parent company, Princess often caters to travelers 18 and up.

With 15 ships in its fleet, Princess cruises to the Caribbean, Mexico, Europe, Alaska and beyond on itineraries ranging from two to 111 days. Princess also offers special “cruise tours” that let you extend your vacation and explore your departure or end port in more depth.

You’ll also get high-quality service aboard Princess, which says it has approximately one crew member for every two to three travelers.

And you won’t get bored at night or during days at sea, either. Princess trips promise poolside movie screenings, magic shows and other fabulous entretainement.

What Travelers Say About Princess Cruises

"First thing is that dining room food is great, but the buffet was minimal. Minimal crowd so that was nice. Cruise Director and staff are really something special. Gary and Steff and the lot-wonderful. I'd say being an older ship it was good but not great. But the entertainment is great. We're only [a] couple days in and the shows have been the highlight." — Dougie Fresh

Best Bang-for-Your-Buck Princess Cruises Trip

You can rest assured that while Princess cruises are easy on your wallet, they aren’t lacking in adventure or diversity. A 10-day trip from San Francisco, California, to Alaska and back starts at $749 per person.

During your cruise, you’ll visit four ports, including one in Victoria, Canada. On the agenda for the day: a stroll through Butchart Gardens, a bucket-list-worthy spot that features 55 acres filled with colorful flowers, enchanting walkways and photo opportunities at every turn.

In Skagway, Alaska, you can meet (and cuddle with) a lovable team of sled dogs, pan for gold and take a ride on the historic White Pass Railway. Or, for something more active, go rock climbing, take a bicycle tour through the rainforest or hit up the ziplines.

If you have only a few days and couple hundred bucks to spare, book a three-night jaunt from Vancouver to Seattle . The starting rate is dirt cheap: $249 per person.

4. MSC Cruises

Year founded:  1989

Headquarters:  Geneva, Switzerland

Number of destinations:  250

Bottom Line: MSC Cruises

Caribbean itineraries on MSC Cruises can be particularly cheap. But low rates are a guarantee no matter where you're traveling.

One awesome perk offered by this high-quality line if you’re cruising on a budget? Kids under 11 always sail free, and kids 12 to 17 sail for free on certain trips and at certain times of the year. This offer is contingent on kids staying in the same cabin as their parents.

There are plenty of reasons mom and dad will want to sail with MSC Cruises, too. For starters, this Swiss cruise line has adults-only pools and theaters showing 4D movies.

Plus, MSC Cruises has great on-board actitivies on each of the 21 ships within its fleet. Ships range in size from 2,520 to 6,762 passengers, so you can pick what suits you best.

What Travelers Say About MSC Cruises

"Food in the YC or on their private island was very good to excellent. We eat all of our breakfast and dinner in the dining room. Lunches were done at the YC grill, which is a little buffet area in the YC. Several times we do lunch on the private island in YC area. Their lunch meal has lobster roll, burger, carne asada...

We did this cruise based on the recommendation of my travel agent...She was correct and that even loved this one more, we will be back on MSC." — jimk727  

Best Bang-for-the-Buck MSC Cruises Trip

For a truly unique and culturally enriching experience, consider an MSC cruise that takes you to Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Oman . Rates start at $229 per person for a seven-night journey.

During a day docked at Muscat, Oman, you can explore one of the oldest cities in the Middle East. Wander around the city's old town, particularly Muttrah, once the most important commercial centers of the country.

When the ship sails to Abu Dhabi, fulfill your need for speed at the Ferrari World Theme Park or by going behind the scenes at the Yas F1 Track, which hosts Formula 1 races and other car-related events.

3. Celebrity Cruises

Year founded:  1988

Bottom Line: Celebrity Cruises

The third spot goes to Celebrity Cruises , popular among travelers for its tasty onboard food options, diverse itineraries and — of course — low rates. 

You won’t feel like you’re traveling on a budget cruise when you book with Celebrity, which has 15 elegantly designed ships in its fleet that can accommodate a wide range of travelers. 

Though the cruises are easy on your wallet, they aren’t lacking in customer service — Celebrity maintains an impressive 2-to-1 passenger-to-crew ratio. Cruises take you to tons of ports in the Caribbean, Asia, Europe and elsewhere around the globe.

U.S. News & World Report made a point of mentioning Celebrity’s “variety of dining options," as well as its "full docket of onboard activities, including wine workshops and glassblowing classes."

What Travelers Say About Celebrity Cruises

"The ship is magnificent — no other way to put it. This was unlike anything other ship we've sailed on and we've been about 50 cruises over the last 30 years...The Edge stands alone with its' unique design and well-appointed interior. The best in the business architects and Interior Designers have combined to create the most modern, contemporary interiors you'll ever see on sea. The interiors also contain a floating modern art museum with unique pieces throughout the ship." — loge23

Best Bang-for-Your-Buck Celebrity Cruises Trip

Mediterranean cruises aren't only for the wealthy. Celebrity Cruises offers a seven-night trip through Greece, Croatia and Italy that starts at $949.

You'll start the trip in Athens before sailing to Mykonos and making your way up the Ionian and Adriatic seas. The cruise stops along ports like Corfu in Greece, Split and Dubrovnik in Croatia and finishes in Venice. This region of the Mediterranean is famous for its gorgeous Medieval towns, which have kept the legacy of the Venetian Empire preserved in their architecture. 

There is also indescribable natural beauty, with water that ranges from clear cerulean to deep electric blue, white undulating cliffs that tower over pebbly beaches and arid mountains where you'll find goats lounging about.

2. Carnival Cruise Line

Year founded:  1972

Number of destinations:  425

Bottom Line: Carnival Cruise Line

The name says it all: Sailing with Carnival Cruise Line is like hanging out at a big, awesome party at sea. And don’t think the party is just for adults — Carnival is also one of the best cruise lines for families.

That festive atmosphere is paired with an eye on budgets; finding itineraries for less than $300 is normal on the line's 25 ships.

With Carnival, you get dedicated programming for kids of all ages (there’s Camp Ocean, Circle “C” and Club 02 for various age ranges), lots of onboard nightlife and entertainment options, and tons of sporty activities like ropes courses, mini-golf, ping-pong tables, soccer, volleyball and basketball. Cruises range from two to 16 days.

What Travelers Say About Carnival Cruise Line

"We decided to take our family (eight of us) on a multigenerational cruise. The 4 day, Bahamas length was a perfect introduction to cruising for our two daughter-in-laws and two grandchildren (under 10). Everyone had a great time. Carnival does a tremendous job of offering activities for every interest and age group." — PC Snow

Best Bang-for-Your-Buck Carnival Cruise Line Trip

Carnival tends to attract families and young adults who care more about fun than luxury. That’s why you’ll see trips like a five-day cruise through the Mexican Riviera for $234.

The highlight of the trip will be breathtaking Cabo San Lucas. Famous for the dramatic stone formations that rise from the sea, the Baja California town has plenty to offer in terms of gastronomy, parties and gorgeous beaches. You'll also stop at the cultural city of Ensenada, where at the right time of year, you may see migrating gray whales.

1. Virgin Voyages

Year founded:  2014

Headquarters:  Plantation, Florida

Number of destinations:  100+

Bottom Line: Virgin Voyages

Virgin Voyages is the newest cruise line on here, but that hasn't kept it from rising to the top. One of Richard Branson's ventures, the company seeks to disrupt cruising as we know it — and it definitely succeeds. 

All itineraries on the cruise line's four ships are adults-only and seek to provide elevated luxury. You won't find buffets and dining hours. Rather, you'll get an array of dozens of dining options (with menus designed by Michelin-star chefs) that you can visit whenever you are hungry. 

All-inclusive fun guarantees fitness and wellness classes, food and some drinks. Plus, you'll get access to exclusive beach clubs like the one in Bimini, Bahamas. Entertainment ranges from drag brunch to exclusive acrobatic and theater performances. Despite having a limited fleet, you'll be able to set sail from destinations like Miami, Florida; Barcelona, Spain; Dubai, UAE; Singapore; and even Auckland, New Zealand.

What Travelers Say About Virgin Voyages

"I choose this cruise because of the no-children policy and the dining being all-inclusive. The dining was excellent — many options at the restaurants. I liked the way the Galley was operated but would have liked to have more normal options available more hours of the day. Even though most picky eaters could find something most of the time.

"We were not very interested in the daytime entertainment options, but that gave us time to just relax out on the deck of the ship and watch some movies that we had not seen [...] Overall, I would like to book another VV cruise in the future. The service from everyone that I came in contact with was excellent. The positives greatly outweigh the negatives." — swiltn

Best Bang-for-Your-Buck Virgin Voyages Trip

Sail on the Scarlett Lady on a four-night cruise from Miami to Bimini and Key West. This short but sweet itinerary will let you relax in the impossibly blue waters that grace the Florida Keys and the Bahamas. 

You'll get to spend time at Virgin's Bimini beach club, where you can sip cocktails as you sunbathe. Alternatively, you can get active and do fun off-shore excursions like snorkeling. 

In Key West, make sure you visit Hemingway's house and bar hop along the infamous Duval Street. 

Best Budget Cruises

Budgets are tighter than ever, but that doesn't mean you have to ditch your cruise holiday all together. If taking a cruise involves penny pinching, consider a sailing on a line known for value, such as Marella Cruises or Ambassador Cruise Line .

If your favourite cruise line doesn’t typically offer budget cruises, consider the merits of a mini cruise, a repositioning cruise or an off-season cruise to a destination such as the Mediterranean in autumn, winter or spring, when prices are typically cheaper.

If you prefer P&O Cruises , for example, look at voyages on the line’s older ships over their new vessels or if you want to cruise with Royal Caribbean , try a short three-night cruise from Southampton .

We break down the best budget cruise lines and how to find budget-friendly cruises on other mainstream cruise lines. Check our cruise deals for year-round purse-friendly offers, too.

Ambassador Cruise Line is a Fantastic Budget Cruise Option for No-Fly Holidays

Since debuting in April 2022, Ambassador Cruise Line came out top in Cruise Critic's Best Value for Money category in the 2022 Editors' Picks Awards .

The line became the first new British cruise line to launch in 12 years when it debuted with Ambience in 2022, followed by Ambition in 2023. The UK-based cruise line describes itself as a ‘premium value no-fly cruise line’ and is a solid option for cheap cruises to destinations such as the Norwegian fjords, Mediterranean, British Isles and Iceland.

Ambassador sails from eight regional UK ports, from London Tilbury to Newcastle and Bristol , with traditional afternoon tea, a British pub and British-style entertainment onboard the two elegant ships.

Regular deals include buy-one-get-one-half-price on fares and last-minute offers. There’s a two-night taster cruise on offer from £150 per person. Bargain!

Marella Cruises Offers Excellent Value for Money with All Inclusive Fares

Marella Cruises ' fleet of five ships, including the recently added Marella Voyager , boasts an all-inclusive offering -- including beverages, gratuities, airfare and transfers -- which makes the line incredibly popular with British holidaymakers.

The revamped ships (the whole fleet comprises of older ships completely refurbished) offering more speciality dining options and fun features such as the outdoor cinema screen on Marella Discovery and Marella Discovery 2 showing Movies at Moonlight, a Champneys Spa on Marella Explorer and Marella Explora 2 and a mix of 17 restaurants and bars on Marella Voyager.

Marella Cruises is best suited for holidaymakers who don’t mind, or prefer, a fly holiday, since the Marella fleet is based in the Mediterranean , Canary Islands and Caribbean . The biggest boon for Brits is, of course, that alcohol is included.  

Celestyal Cruises is a Great Budget Option for Cruises to the Greek Islands

The Greek-owned Celestyal Cruises has gained popularity in recent years among British cruisers for its welcoming crew, Greek Island-hopping itineraries and affordable prices.

The line has two ships, the 2023-launched Celestyal Journey and Celestyal Olympia . Similarly to Marella Cruises, both ships are older vessels that have been refurbished for Celestyal.

Choose from short, three- and four-night voyages to Santorini and Mykonos , to longer seven- and 10-night sailings that also include calls to Patmos , Rhodes , Crete (Heraklion) , Athens (Lavrion) and Kusadasi in Turkey. Celestyal is one of the most affordable cruise lines for Greek Island cruises, with fares starting from £349pp for three nights and £699pp for seven nights. What's more, fares include some shore excursions, gratuities, select alcoholic and nonalcoholic drinks.

Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines Is Much-Loved No-Fly Budget-Friendly Cruise Line

Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines' three mid-size ships -- Bolette , Borealis , and Balmoral -- are classic and elegant. Free of the bows and whistles (water slides, climbing walls and gaming arcades for example) that are often seen on larger cruise lines -- and inevitably push prices up -- Fred. Olsen's prices remain affordable for British cruises,

The line offer cruises from the largest number of ports in the UK, including Belfast , Edinburgh , Newcastle , Glasgow (Greenock) and Southampton , among others -- this alone is a huge saving for cruisers who find they can pick a departure port closer to home.

The line's destinations include the Canary Islands, & Madeira, Spain and Portugal, Norwegian fjords and British Isles, as well as some longer sailings to the Americas and Indian Ocean. Fred. Olsen also regularly offers fantastic value Northern Lights and Christmas markets cruises to Northern Europe as part of its no-fly programme.

You Can Find Budget Deals on Other Mainstream Cruise Lines -- If You Pick the Right Sailing

P&O Cruises , Royal Caribbean , Princess Cruises and MSC Cruises are among the mainstream cruise lines that offer some cheap(er) cruises -- providing you do your research and choose wisely.

For example, look to sailings off season, such as the Western Mediterranean in November or Alaska in May, or short two-, three- or four-night cruises that will work out cheaper and save your hard-earned cash. Repositioning cruises -- trans-ocean cruises -- are a good shout as they typically sail from Europe to the Caribbean, or vice versa, at the end of a season, offering longer sailings at discounted fares.

If you’re keen to try Royal Caribbean, but you’re on a budget, the reality is you’re not going to find a cheap seven-night cruise on, say, Wonder of the Seas in the Caribbean. You will find cheaper cruises on Anthem of the Seas ’ voyages from Southampton -- especially if you snag a cabin on the ship’s two-night jaunt to Paris .

The same goes for Celebrity Cruises . The line’s Edge-class is superb, but it’s probably not for you if you’re on a budget. You could consider one of the line’s older ships in Europe, such as Celebrity Infinity with cabins considerably cheaper than say on Celebrity Apex , which is based in Southampton during summer. If you're a P&O Cruises' super fan, but can't stretch to Arvia , search cruises on Aurora, the line's oldest ship.

Other tips when searching for a budget cruise include downsizing to/opting for an interior cabin over an outside cabin or higher; waiting for Black Friday, Cyber Monday or Wave Season cruise deals to get money off and added value offers and speaking with a cruise line travel agent , who are likely to unlock added perks and better cruise deals.

Carnival Cruise Line Offers a Budget Option Sailing from Dover

US cruise line, Carnival , known for its fun-filled and budget-friendly cruises, mostly in the Caribbean, offers a solution for travellers in the UK, too. The Spirit-class Carnival Miracle , one of the line's older vessels, offers a programme of sailings from Dover , including some thrilling Iceland and Northern Europe sailings.

The upbeat, 2,124-passenger ship features WaterWorks wet slides, the Punchliner Comedy Club, an adults-only retreat and a slew of tasty dining options, including Guy's Burger Joint, Blue IguanaCantina and sea day brunch.

© 1995— 2024 , The Independent Traveler, Inc.

Cruise Lines

The ultimate guide to finding the cheapest cruise line.

Hello! Are you ready to start your journey in finding the most budget-friendly cruise line? Worry no more, because I have for you the ultimate guide designed specifically to meet your requirements.

As a fellow travel enthusiast, I understand the thrill of finding a great deal, and that’s exactly what this guide is all about. In this comprehensive resource, we’ll explore different ways to determine the cheapest cruise line, from comparing fares on cruise line websites to considering factors that can affect prices, like ship age and cabin type.

But wait, there’s more! I’ll also share insider tips on finding promotions and perks, as well as the benefits of loyalty programs. Because let’s face it, who doesn’t love a little extra pampering on their cruise?

So, get ready to navigate the world of cruise fares and uncover the best deals out there. Whether you’re a seasoned cruiser or a first-timer, this guide will help you plan the perfect voyage without breaking the bank.

Let’s embark on this journey together and make your dream cruise a reality. Bon voyage!

Table of Contents

Key Takeaways

• Compare fares on cruise line websites
• Find promotions and perks to lower cost
• Consider benefits of loyalty programs
• Prioritize important amenities when comparing prices

Determining the Cheapest Cruise Line

When determining the cheapest cruise line, I use a variety of methods. I compare fares on cruise line websites and consider factors like add-on purchases and promotions. By using the search function on cruise line websites, I can compare fares for different cruise lengths and find the best deals.

However, it’s important to note that factors like add-on purchases, such as drink or internet packages, are not included in the analysis. In my experience, some of the cheapest cruise lines overall include Carnival, MSC, and Royal Caribbean.

Additionally, finding promotions and perks can significantly lower the cost of a cruise. It’s also worth considering the benefits of loyalty programs, as they often offer exclusive discounts and upgrades.

Comparison of Cruise Fares

While comparing cruise fares, I discovered a wide range of prices among different cruise lines. Not only do the prices vary based on the length of the cruise, but also the amenities offered by each cruise line.

Some cruise lines may offer more luxurious accommodations, while others may focus on providing a more budget-friendly experience. It’s important to consider what amenities are important to you and prioritize them when comparing prices.

Additionally, I found that booking last minute cruises can often lead to significant savings. Cruise lines often offer discounted rates to fill any remaining cabins. However, keep in mind that availability may be limited and you may have less control over cabin selection.

Overall, by comparing cruise fares and considering the amenities offered, you can find the cheapest cruise line that suits your needs and budget.

Factors Affecting Prices

One factor that significantly impacts prices is the age of the cruise ship. Newer ships tend to have higher fares, as they often offer more modern amenities and features. On the other hand, older ships may have lower fares due to their outdated facilities and décor.

Another factor to consider is the cabin type. Different cabin categories, such as interior, oceanview, balcony, and suite, have varying price points. Interior cabins are usually the most affordable, while suites tend to be the most expensive. The size, location, and amenities of the cabin also play a role in determining the price.

It’s important to carefully consider your preferences and budget when choosing a cabin type, as this can greatly affect the overall cost of your cruise experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some common add-on purchases that can significantly increase the cost of a cruise.

Common cruise add-ons, such as drink packages and internet packages, can significantly increase the cost of a cruise. These hidden cruise costs should be considered when budgeting for your trip to avoid any surprises.

How can transportation costs to the cruise terminal affect the overall price of a cruise?

Transportation costs to the cruise terminal can impact the overall price of a cruise. By considering cheaper modes of transportation, such as public transit or carpooling, cost savings can be achieved. Additionally, joining a loyalty program or taking advantage of promotions and perks can further reduce expenses. For first-time cruisers, it’s important to factor in these transportation costs to have a complete understanding of the overall price of the experience.

Are there any tips for finding promotions and perks that can help lower the cost of a cruise?

Finding cruise line promotions and tips for reducing cruise costs can help lower the overall price of a cruise. Look for deals on the cruise line’s website, sign up for newsletters, consider booking during off-peak seasons, and take advantage of loyalty programs.

What are the benefits of joining a cruise line’s loyalty program in terms of cost savings?

Joining a cruise line’s loyalty program can be a treasure trove of cost savings. From discounted fares to exclusive perks like free Wi-Fi or onboard credits, these benefits make loyalty truly worth its weight in gold.

How many days should a first-time cruiser typically plan for to make the most of their experience?

For a first-time cruiser experience, the best cruise length depends on personal preferences. Generally, a 7-day cruise offers a good balance of time to explore ports and enjoy onboard amenities, but shorter or longer cruises can also be enjoyable.

In conclusion, finding the cheapest cruise line requires careful research and consideration of various factors.

By comparing fares and taking into account add-on purchases, travelers can uncover the best deals.

Carnival, MSC, and Royal Caribbean are highlighted as affordable options.

It’s essential to factor in extras like drink and internet packages, as well as ship age and cabin type, which can impact prices significantly.

By utilizing promotions, perks, and loyalty programs, travelers can further enhance their savings.

Remember, the world of cruising awaits, offering unforgettable adventures at affordable prices.

Meet Asra, a talented and adventurous writer who infuses her passion for exploration into every word she writes. Asra’s love for storytelling and her insatiable curiosity about the world make her an invaluable asset to the Voyager Info team.

From a young age, Asra was drawn to the power of words and their ability to transport readers to far-off lands and magical realms. Her fascination with travel and cultures from around the globe fueled her desire to become a travel writer, and she set out on a journey to turn her dreams into reality.

Top Royal Caribbean Ships For Kids: Age-Appropriate Fun!

Unveiling The Ultimate Carnival Experience: My Review Of Carnival Celebration

Meet Asra, a talented and adventurous writer who infuses her passion for exploration into every word she writes. Asra’s love for storytelling and her insatiable curiosity about the world make her an invaluable asset to the Voyager Info team. From a young age, Asra was drawn to the power of words and their ability to transport readers to far-off lands and magical realms. Her fascination with travel and cultures from around the globe fueled her desire to become a travel writer, and she set out on a journey to turn her dreams into reality.

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Carnival cruise line and turks & caicos islands: a generous fire truck donation.

I must say, it was genuinely astonishing for all of us to see. Observing the debut of a shining, refurbished fire truck, kindly donated by Carnival Cruise Line, at the Grand Turk Cruise Center was truly noteworthy.

This generous donation is going to make a world of difference in protecting lives and property on the Turks & Caicos Islands. See, before this, they only had one fire truck. Can you believe it?

Now, with this additional vehicle, their emergency response capabilities are going to skyrocket. It’s a true testament to Carnival Cruise Line’s commitment to the Grand Turk community and their dedication to ensuring safety for all.

• Carnival Cruise Line and the City of Miami Fire-Rescue Department coordinated the donation of a fire truck to the Turks and Caicos Islands.
• The donation ceremony took place at the Grand Turk Cruise Center and was attended by representatives from Carnival Cruise Line, Turks and Caicos Islands, and government officials.
• The donation of the fire truck will help protect lives and property in Grand Turk and aligns with the ministry’s priority of ensuring an effective emergency response.
• Prior to the donation, the Grand Turk Domestic Fire Services only had one fire truck, making the addition of the donated fire truck critical in safeguarding property and responding to emergencies.

Donation Ceremony: Welcoming the Fire Truck

I was excited to attend the special ceremony at the Grand Turk Cruise Center to welcome the donated fire truck.

The impact of this donation on the community is immense. It showcases the incredible support from Carnival Cruise Line and The City of Miami Fire-Rescue Department.

The ceremony was attended by representatives from both Carnival Cruise Line and Turks and Caicos Islands, including government officials. This event highlighted the importance of community support and collaboration.

Grand Turk has been a significant destination for Carnival Cruise Line for 17 years, and when they learned about the need for a fire truck, they stepped up to help.

This generous donation will greatly assist in protecting lives and property in Grand Turk, ensuring an effective emergency response for years to come.

Importance of Grand Turk: Carnival’s Support

Attending the ceremony were government officials, including the Acting Governor and Premier, highlighting the significance of Grand Turk and the support it has received.

Grand Turk has been an important destination for Carnival Cruise Line for the last 17 years. When Carnival Cruise Line learned that the island was in need of a fire truck, they wanted to help.

The donation by Carnival Cruise Line will assist in protecting lives and property in Grand Turk. The addition of the fire truck aligns with the ministry’s priority to ensure an effective emergency response.

This generous donation not only reinforces Carnival’s commitment to the community’s safety but also recognizes the tourism impact that Grand Turk has on the cruise industry. The fire truck will serve as a vital asset in safeguarding the island and its visitors, further enhancing the overall experience for tourists.

Previous Fire Truck Situation: Addressing the Need

Witnessing the limited resources of the Grand Turk Domestic Fire Services, it became evident that additional support was necessary. The previous situation of having only one fire truck was not enough to effectively address the needs of emergency response in Grand Turk. This lack of resources put lives and property at risk.

However, thanks to the generous donation from Carnival Cruise Line and the City of Miami Fire-Rescue Department, the Grand Turk Domestic Fire Services now has an additional fire truck to serve the community. This donation is a critical step towards addressing the need for a more robust emergency response system in Grand Turk.

The refurbished fire truck, with its capacity to hold 500 gallons of water, will greatly contribute to safeguarding property and responding to emergencies. The support from Carnival Cruise Line and the City of Miami Fire-Rescue Department is truly commendable and will make a significant difference in the safety and well-being of the people of Grand Turk.

Fire Truck Details: A Critical Addition

The refurbished vehicle, capable of holding 500 gallons of water, is a critical addition to the Grand Turk Domestic Fire Services. This fire truck, which underwent refurbishment before being donated, will greatly enhance the department’s ability to respond to emergencies and safeguard the community. With its increased capacity, the fire truck can effectively combat fires and provide necessary support during rescue operations.

To illustrate the significance of this donation, let’s take a look at the following table:

The fire truck’s capacity to hold 500 gallons of water ensures that it can tackle larger fires and provide sustained firefighting efforts. The refurbishment process ensures that the vehicle is in optimal condition, ready to serve the people of Grand Turk for many years to come. This generous donation by the City of Miami Fire-Rescue Department, with support from the City of Miami Commission, demonstrates the commitment to ensuring the safety and well-being of the community.

Attendees at the Ceremony: Uniting for a Cause

As I looked around the ceremony, I saw government officials, executives, and representatives all joining together for a common cause. It was truly inspiring to witness the community support and government involvement in this event.

Acting Governor H.E. Anya Williams and Premier C. Washington Misick were among the esteemed attendees, showing their commitment to the well-being of Grand Turk. Minister Otis Morris, Minister Josephine Connolly, and other government officials also graced the occasion, highlighting the importance they placed on this generous fire truck donation.

In addition to the government representatives, Carnival Corporation and Carnival Cruise Line executives were present, demonstrating their dedication to the community. The collaboration between these different entities showcases the power of unity when it comes to supporting and protecting the people of Grand Turk.

How Did the City of Miami Fire-Rescue Department and Carnival Cruise Line Coordinate the Donation of the Fire Truck?

The City of Miami Fire-Rescue Department and Carnival Cruise Line coordinated the donation of the fire truck through a collaborative coordination process. Their efforts had a significant impact on improving emergency services in the Turks & Caicos Islands.

What Other Ways Has Carnival Cruise Line Supported the Community of Grand Turk Besides the Fire Truck Donation?

Besides the fire truck donation, Carnival Cruise Line has supported the community of Grand Turk through various initiatives, such as infrastructure development, educational programs, and employment opportunities. These efforts have had a positive impact on the local economy and quality of life.

How Will the Addition of the Fire Truck Improve the Emergency Response Capabilities in Grand Turk?

The addition of the fire truck will improve emergency response capabilities in Grand Turk by enhancing safety measures and providing a critical resource for protecting lives and property.

What Specific Features and Capabilities Does the Donated Fire Truck Have?

The donated fire truck has impressive features and capabilities. With a capacity to hold 500 gallons of water, it will greatly enhance emergency response in Grand Turk and safeguard lives and property.

Were There Any Other Notable Individuals or Organizations Present at the Donation Ceremony Besides the Ones Mentioned?

Yes, there were other notable individuals and organizations present at the donation ceremony. Their presence highlighted the importance and impact of the fire truck donation on the community of Grand Turk.

Alfons is the visionary leader and driving force behind Voyager Info’s success. As the Editor in Chief, he brings a wealth of experience and an unwavering passion for travel to the helm of our cruise-centric platform.

With a lifelong fascination for exploring new horizons, Alfons discovered his love for the ocean and cruising at a young age. From sailing across pristine Caribbean waters to embarking on daring expeditions to far-flung destinations, he has amassed a treasure trove of first-hand experiences in the world of cruising.

Carnival Elation: Exciting Upgrades and Latest News

I’m excited to share some wonderful news about Carnival Elation! This incredible cruise ship is currently undergoing a multimillion-dollar upgrade that is set to transform your vacation experience into something truly unparalleled.

With the addition of a new WaterWorks park, 38 new cabins, and 98 balconies to existing staterooms, there’s no shortage of fun and comfort on board.

Get ready to embark on the ultimate vacation as Carnival Elation unveils its stunning transformation. Stay tuned for all the latest updates and discover the enhanced features of this remarkable ship.

• Carnival Elation has undergone a multimillion-dollar makeover, aiming to enhance the guest experience and create a modern atmosphere.
• The ship now features a new WaterWorks park with thrilling water slides and attractions, as well as the addition of 38 new cabins and 98 balconies to existing staterooms.
• The renovations provide ample space for guests to relax and unwind, with enhanced balconies offering breathtaking ocean views and upgraded cabins providing ultimate relaxation and privacy.
• Carnival Elation offers unparalleled luxury and comfort on board, with newly added cabins featuring modern amenities and stylish decor, and a paradise-like experience with pool, restaurants, and entertainment options.

New Waterworks Park for Endless Fun

I can’t wait to experience the new WaterWorks park on Carnival Elation after its multimillion-dollar makeover. This exciting addition promises endless fun with its new waterworks features and thrilling water park attractions.

As I step foot into the park, I’ll be greeted by vibrant colors and the sound of laughter echoing through the air. The park boasts exhilarating water slides that twist and turn, providing a rush of adrenaline. I’ll have the chance to race my friends down the high-speed slides, feeling the wind in my hair as we compete for victory.

For those seeking a more relaxing experience, there will be a lazy river where I can float along and soak up the sun. The new WaterWorks park on Carnival Elation is sure to be a highlight of my cruise, offering unforgettable moments of joy and excitement.

Multimillion-Dollar Makeover for Carnival Elation

The Carnival Elation is currently undergoing a multimillion-dollar makeover, and the renovations are truly impressive.

One of the most exciting additions is the new WaterWorks park, which promises endless fun for guests of all ages. With thrilling water slides, splash zones, and water play areas, the park is sure to be a hit.

But that’s not all. The Carnival Elation is also incorporating 38 new cabins and 98 balconies to existing staterooms, providing guests with even more options for their accommodations.

The renovations aim to enhance the overall guest experience and create a more modern and exciting atmosphere on board.

I can’t wait to see the finished result of the Carnival Elation makeover. It’s going to be incredible!

Expanded Cabins and Balconies for Added Comfort

The addition of 38 new cabins and 98 balconies to existing staterooms on the Carnival Elation ensures added comfort for guests. With these expanded cabins and enhanced balconies, passengers can enjoy a truly luxurious experience on their cruise.

Here are three reasons why these upgrades are worth getting excited about:

Spaciousness: The new cabins provide ample space for guests to relax and unwind. Whether you’re traveling solo or with your family, you’ll have plenty of room to stretch out and make yourself at home.

Stunning Views: The enhanced balconies offer breathtaking views of the ocean. Imagine waking up to the sound of waves crashing and stepping outside to enjoy your morning coffee while taking in the panoramic scenery.

Ultimate Relaxation: With the added comfort and privacy of these upgraded cabins and balconies, you can truly unwind and rejuvenate during your cruise. Whether you’re lounging on your balcony or resting in your cozy cabin, you’ll feel like you’re in your own personal oasis at sea.

Don’t miss out on the opportunity to experience the expanded cabins and enhanced balconies on the Carnival Elation. Book your cruise today and indulge in the ultimate comfort and luxury.

Carnival Elation: the Ultimate Vacation Experience

Indulge in the ultimate vacation experience aboard the Carnival Elation with its expanded cabins and enhanced balconies.

As a passenger on this magnificent ship, you’ll be treated to a level of luxury and comfort that is truly unparalleled. The newly added cabins provide ample space for relaxation and rejuvenation, with modern amenities and stylish decor.

And the enhanced balconies offer breathtaking views of the ocean, allowing you to immerse yourself in the beauty of your surroundings. Whether you’re lounging by the pool, enjoying a delicious meal at one of the onboard restaurants, or partaking in the exciting entertainment options, you’ll feel like you’re in paradise.

Don’t miss out on the opportunity to experience the ultimate vacation aboard the Carnival Elation, with its enhanced features that will leave you in awe.

Latest Updates on Carnival Elation

I can’t wait to hear about the latest updates on the Carnival Elation!

The Carnival Elation recently underwent a multimillion-dollar refurbishment, and there have been some exciting changes to its itinerary. Here are the highlights:

Carnival Elation refurbishment: The ship has received a stunning makeover, with new enhancements and upgrades throughout. From refreshed staterooms to updated dining venues, guests can expect a modern and luxurious experience onboard.

Carnival Elation itinerary changes: The ship’s itineraries have been revamped to offer even more exciting destinations and experiences. Whether you’re dreaming of exploring the beautiful beaches of the Caribbean or immersing yourself in the vibrant culture of Mexico, there are plenty of new options to choose from.

Stay tuned for more details: As the Carnival Elation sets sail with its new look and itineraries, be sure to stay updated for the latest news and announcements. The ship promises to deliver unforgettable vacations filled with fun, relaxation, and adventure.

With the Carnival Elation’s refurbishment and itinerary changes, there’s never been a better time to embark on a cruise and create lasting memories. Get ready for an unforgettable journey on this magnificent ship!

Exciting Upgrades for an Unforgettable Cruise

Get ready for an unforgettable cruise experience with the addition of new enhancements and upgrades to create lasting memories.

Carnival Elation has undergone an exciting makeover, featuring a multimillion-dollar renovation that will leave you in awe. One of the highlights is the expansive new WaterWorks park, where you can slide, splash, and soak up the sun to your heart’s content.

Not only that, but 38 new cabins and 98 balconies have been added to the existing staterooms, providing even more comfortable and luxurious accommodations. Carnival Elation is truly taking cruising to the next level with these exciting upgrades.

Whether you’re a seasoned cruiser or a first-timer, this unforgettable cruise experience will leave you wanting more. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to embark on the vacation of a lifetime.

Carnival Elation’s Transformation Revealed

After learning about the exciting upgrades for an unforgettable cruise, let’s dive into the transformation of Carnival Elation.

This ship’s refurbishment progress has been nothing short of impressive, with multimillion-dollar investments to enhance the onboard experience. One of the most significant additions is the expansive new WaterWorks park, offering thrilling water slides and splash zones for guests of all ages.

But that’s not all! Carnival Elation has also seen the addition of 38 new cabins and 98 balconies to its existing staterooms, ensuring more comfortable accommodations for passengers.

This transformation has had a significant impact on the cruise industry, setting a new standard for cruise ship makeovers. Carnival Elation’s refurbishment showcases the industry’s commitment to providing innovative and exciting experiences for cruisers worldwide.

Discover the Enhanced Features of Carnival Elation

The refurbished Carnival Elation now offers enhanced features that elevate the onboard experience for passengers. With its updated amenities and dining options, the ship provides a truly unforgettable vacation.

One of the standout features is the addition of an expansive new WaterWorks park, perfect for thrill-seekers of all ages. Guests can enjoy exciting water slides and splash around in the refreshing pools.

When it comes to dining, the Carnival Elation offers a variety of options to satisfy every palate. From casual eateries serving delicious burgers and pizzas to elegant restaurants offering gourmet cuisine, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re craving a juicy steak or fresh seafood, the ship’s dining venues will surely impress.

With its enhanced amenities and dining choices, the Carnival Elation guarantees a fantastic journey filled with excitement and mouthwatering flavors.

Carnival Elation: the Ship to Watch Out for

I can’t wait to see what the Carnival Elation has in store for passengers with its impressive new features and updates. This ship is definitely one to watch out for.

One of the most exciting changes is the addition of new dining options. With a variety of restaurants and eateries onboard, passengers will have plenty of choices to satisfy their cravings. From casual buffets to elegant specialty dining, there’s something for everyone.

And let’s not forget about the onboard entertainment. The Carnival Elation has stepped up its game with a lineup of thrilling shows, live music performances, and interactive activities. Whether you’re looking for a night of dancing or a family-friendly comedy show, this ship has it all.

Get ready for an unforgettable vacation filled with delicious food and non-stop fun.

Stay Informed With the Latest Carnival Elation News

Stay up to date with all the latest developments and information about what’s happening with the Carnival Elation. Get ready for an unforgettable vacation experience onboard the Carnival Elation with its latest updates.

This ship is currently undergoing a multimillion-dollar makeover, including the addition of an expansive new WaterWorks park. Imagine the thrill of zooming down water slides or relaxing in the sun by the pool.

Not only that, but 38 new cabins and 98 balconies have been added to the existing staterooms, providing even more options for a comfortable stay.

Don’t miss out on the opportunity to sail on the Carnival Elation and enjoy these exciting upgrades. Your dream vacation awaits!

How Much Does It Cost to Purchase a Carnival Cruise Ship for Vacation?

The cost and availability of purchasing a Carnival cruise ship for vacation vary depending on factors like size, age, and amenities. It’s an exciting opportunity to own your own floating paradise.

What Specific Upgrades and Enhancements Are Included in the Multimillion-Dollar Makeover of Carnival Elation?

The multimillion-dollar makeover of Carnival Elation includes exciting upgrades and enhancements. These include the addition of an expansive new WaterWorks park, 38 new cabins, and 98 balconies to existing staterooms.

Are There Any New Dining Options or Restaurants Being Added to Carnival Elation?

Yes, there are exciting new dining options and restaurants being added to the Carnival Elation. The multimillion-dollar makeover includes the addition of delicious eateries that will enhance the dining experience onboard.

Will Carnival Elation Be Sailing From U.S. Homeports by Spring 2022?

Yes, Carnival Elation will be sailing from U.S. homeports by spring 2022. As the cruise industry recovers, Carnival Elation is part of the fleet’s plans to resume operations and offer exciting voyages.

Can You Provide More Information About the Other Carnival Cruise Ships That Are Currently for Sale?

Yes, I can provide more information about the other Carnival cruise ships that are currently for sale. The current market for Carnival cruise ships offers a unique opportunity to purchase a vacation experience on a luxurious vessel.

Celebrity Apex To Set Sail From Southampton In 2024

Imagine setting sail from the bustling Southampton port aboard the luxurious Celebrity Apex, embarking on an unmatched journey to the world’s most spectacular destinations.

That’s right, folks – I am thrilled to share the exciting news that Celebrity Cruises has announced the deployment of Celebrity Apex in Southampton for the 2024 cruise season. This decision highlights the company’s recognition of the UK market’s importance and its commitment to offering unparalleled experiences to British cruisers.

From May to November 2024, Celebrity Apex will be offering a range of spectacular sailings, ranging from 4 to 13 nights. Get ready to explore the stunning Norwegian Fjords, witness the beauty of the Arctic Circle, and even enjoy a visit to the vibrant island of Ibiza.

With its innovative design and world-class features, Celebrity Apex is set to redefine the cruising experience, taking guests on a journey to the best destinations the world has to offer.

So, mark your calendars and prepare to embark on an extraordinary adventure like no other.

• Celebrity Apex will be based in Southampton, UK for the 2024 cruise season, replacing Celebrity Silhouette.
• The decision highlights the importance of the UK market to Celebrity Cruises.
• Celebrity Apex will offer 4- to 13-night sailings from Southampton, from May to November 2024.
• Celebrity Apex’s debut in the UK will begin with a 12-night Norwegian Fjords and Arctic Circle sailing, including Tromso and Honnigsvag.

Unique UK Experience

I’m excited to hear that Celebrity Apex will be based in Southampton for the 2024 cruise season, offering a unique experience to UK guests. This decision showcases the importance of the UK market to Celebrity Cruises.

With Celebrity Apex, guests will have the opportunity to explore exclusive destinations from Southampton. From May to November 2024, the ship will offer 4- to 13-night sailings, allowing passengers to discover breathtaking locations. From the stunning Norwegian Fjords and Arctic Circle to the vibrant island of Ibiza, the itineraries promise unforgettable experiences.

The move to base Celebrity Apex in Southampton is a response to the strong demand from UK guests, who’re eager to embark on exciting voyages from their own doorstep. This exclusive UK experience reflects Celebrity Cruises’ commitment to redefining cruising and taking guests to the world’s best places.

Sailing Itineraries

With an array of captivating destinations on its itinerary, Celebrity Apex will take guests on a thrilling voyage through picturesque fjords, enchanting arctic landscapes, and the vibrant shores of Ibiza.

Embarking from Southampton, this luxurious cruise ship is set to satisfy the wanderlust of travelers seeking exciting destinations.

The 2024 cruise season will offer 4- to 13-night sailings, catering to the strong demand from UK guests.

Celebrity Apex’s debut in the UK will feature a 12-night Norwegian Fjords and Arctic Circle sailing, allowing guests to explore the stunning beauty of Tromso and Honnigsvag.

And for those craving the vibrant nightlife and stunning beaches, Ibiza will be an unforgettable stop.

From the tranquil serenity of the fjords to the vibrant energy of Ibiza, Celebrity Apex promises an unforgettable experience that will leave guests longing for more.

Renowned Design and Features

Renowned designers such as Kelly Hoppen and Nate Berkus have crafted the stunning design and features of the luxurious Celebrity Apex. The ship is a masterpiece of elegance and sophistication, with every detail meticulously planned to create an unforgettable experience for guests.

From the moment you step on board, you’ll be greeted by a breathtaking atrium that sets the tone for the rest of the ship. The Celebrity Apex offers a variety of amenities to cater to every guest’s needs and desires. Indulge in world-class dining options curated by Michelin-starred chefs, relax in the luxurious spa and wellness center, or enjoy the thrilling entertainment options available.

The ship also boasts state-of-the-art technology and innovative design elements that enhance the overall experience. Whether you’re seeking relaxation, adventure, or both, the Celebrity Apex has it all.

How can I book a cruise on Celebrity Apex from Southampton in 2024?

To book a cruise on Celebrity Apex from Southampton in 2024, simply visit the Celebrity Cruises website and follow the easy cruise booking process. Experience the luxurious amenities of Celebrity Apex as you sail to incredible destinations from the UK.

What are the dining options available on Celebrity Apex?

On Celebrity Apex, there are a variety of dining options to indulge in. From the elegant main dining room to specialty restaurants like Fine Cut Steakhouse and Le Petit Chef, there’s something to satisfy every palate onboard.

Are there any special amenities or activities for families traveling with children on Celebrity Apex?

Yes, Celebrity Apex offers special amenities for children and entertainment options for families. Kids can enjoy the Fun Factory, a dedicated children’s area, while families can bond over activities like outdoor movie nights and live performances in the theater.

Can I bring my pet on board Celebrity Apex for the UK sailings in 2024?

Yes, Celebrity Apex is pet friendly for UK sailings in 2024. They have proper care and safety measures in place to ensure the well-being of pets on board. It’s great news for pet owners who want to bring their furry friends on a cruise.

Is there a dress code for guests on Celebrity Apex?

The dress code policies for Celebrity Apex guests greatly impact the guest experience. The cruise line has a smart-casual dress code, allowing guests to feel comfortable while still maintaining an elegant atmosphere onboard.

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Top 8 Cheapest Cruise Lines for Your Next Vacation

• April 5, 2024
• Cruise Planning

Looking for a cruise that won’t break the bank? Nowadays, anyone can take a cruise, with various cruise lines such as Royal Caribbean and MSC catering to families and providing excellent value for money.

This article will detail the most budget-friendly cruise lines, providing tips on securing the best bargains and promotions for each line.

What Are the Cheapest Cruise Lines?

The cheapest cruise line is MSC Cruises, with their cheapest cruise starting at only $80 per person. Additionally, MSC’s cheapest 7 night cruise starts at only $269 per person. However, it’s important to remember that the final cost of your cruise can vary based on several factors, such as the time of year, duration, and destinations you visit.

Additionally, there are other cruise lines that also offer budget-friendly options without compromising on quality. These include P&O Cruises, Costa Cruises, and Royal Caribbean. These lines are known for providing enjoyable cruise experiences tailored to families and individuals looking for an affordable vacation at sea.

Below is a table of the cheapest cruise lines, ordered by their cheapest actual price for 7 nights:

List of Cheapest Cruise Lines

Here is a list of the cheapest cruise lines, along with tips on how to save money on each line:

MSC Cruises

MSC Cruises is often thought of as the most budget-friendly cruise line. It’s a cruise line that caters to everyone, offering many sailings around the Mediterranean. However, you can also find cruises to other exciting destinations, such as the Caribbean and the Mediterranean. The best deals will be found on MSC’s older vessels. While the newest cruise ships, such as MSC Euribia and MSC World Europa, will come with a heftier price tag.

When booking with MSC, you’ll find that there are three main types of experiences to choose from. ‘Bella’ is the least expensive and comes with guaranteed cabins, making it perfect for those on a tight budget. If you’re willing to spend a bit more, the ‘Fantastica’ tier offers free in-room breakfast and the ability to select your type of room. For those looking for a more luxurious experience, the ‘Aurea’ level provides access to exclusive amenities, specialty dining options, and additional discounts, albeit at a higher cost.

Make sure to join MSC’s loyalty program, known as the Voyager’s Club, to access great deals and perks. Additionally, MSC often has promotions where kids aged 17 and under can sail for free as the third or fourth person in most cabins (except for Yacht Club rooms). When you’re planning a trip with MSC, keep in mind that Wi-Fi and specialty drinks are usually not included in the base fare. 

Price range: ≈$50 to $100 per person, per night Savings to consider: Voyager’s Club, Kids Sail Free Cheapest cruise (7 nights): Northern Europe, 7 nights Cheapest cruise (overall): MSC Grand Voyages, 3 nights

Carnival Cruise Line

Carnival Cruise Line offers some of the most budget-friendly cruises out there. You’ll find Carnival sailing all across the globe, though they primarily focus on the Caribbean. So, if you’re near the coast in places like Florida, New York, Alabama, or Texas, you’re sure to find an amazing deal on a cruise. Carnival makes it easy to hop on a cruise ship without breaking the bank, making it a go-to choice for many travelers.

When looking for an affordable Carnival cruise, keep in mind that the initial lower price might mean that not everything is included. This could lead to spending a bit more money on board for extra amenities such as internet and drink packages. However, most Carnival ships come packed with lots of amenities, such as endless entertainment options, restaurants, a fitness center, and pools. 

One of the best ways to secure deals and promotions on Carnival Cruises is by spending money in the onboard casino. As you play games and participate in casino activities, you’re likely to start receiving offers. Joining the Carnival VIFP (Very Important Fun Person) Club is another effective strategy for accessing special promotions. Don’t forget to regularly check the “Deals” section on Carnival’s official website, where promotions like reduced deposits, discounts of up to 30% on select itineraries, or complimentary beverage packages might pop up.

Price range: ≈$100 to $250 per person, per night Savings to consider: Carnival VIFP Club, Casino Discounts Cheapest cruise (7 nights): 8-Day South Pacific from Sydney, Australia Cheapest overall cruise: 2-Day Getaway from Sydney, Australia

P&O Cruises

P&O Cruises is popular among British travelers looking for an affordable cruise. While they do have new cruise ships like the MS Arvia and Iona, these tend to come with a higher price tag. For those looking for an affordable P&O cruise, consider a voyage on one of the line’s older vessels. These older ships have all been refurbished and are kept in excellent condition.

One of the best features of P&O Cruises is their approach to gratuities. Unlike other popular cruise lines, such as Royal Caribbean and Carnival, P&O doesn’t automatically add gratuity charges to your bill. This policy can help travelers save a significant amount of money, making it easier to enjoy your cruise vacation without worrying about additional expenses.

Additionally, P&O Cruises often has special offers that can help you save hundreds of dollars. These promotions can include deals where the third and fourth guests in a booking can sail at no extra cost, and deals where children can cruise for free. Such deals are perfect for families or groups looking to experience a cruise together while keeping costs down.

Price range: ≈$70 to $150 per person, per night Savings to consider: Kids Sail Free, Discounts on Third and Fourth Guests Cheapest cruise (7 nights): Northern European City Escape, 7 Nights Cheapest cruise (overall): Belgium, 3 Nights

Celebrity Cruises

Celebrity Cruises is a mid-tier line known for its top-notch service, elegant accommodations, and high-end dining. It has a fleet of 16 ships and offers voyages to destinations all around the globe. While it’s designed with adults in mind, you’ll find plenty of amenities and activities that cater to all ages. 

One of the best features of Celebrity Cruises is their frequent balcony upgrade promotions, which allow guests to enjoy stunning views from their own private space at sea. Additionally, they offer repositioning cruises, which are a great way to experience the high standards of Celebrity at a more affordable price. For those looking to get the most value, the All Included package is a popular option, as it can save passengers hundreds of dollars onboard by bundling services and amenities into one price.

If you’re looking to save on your Celebrity Cruises vacation, the cruise line frequently offers promotions and discounts. These may include special pricing for early bookings, onboard credit, or package deals that bundle accommodations with airfare or excursions. If you’re a frequent cruiser, consider joining the Captain’s Club loyalty program, which gives you access to exclusive perks and discounts. 

Price range: ≈$75 to $200 per person, per night Savings to consider: Balcony Upgrades, Repositioning Cruises, Captain’s Club Cheapest cruise (7 nights): Alaska Southbound Glacier Cheapest cruise (overall): Key West & Bahamas

Royal Caribbean

When it comes to affordable cruise lines, Royal Caribbean may not always be the first choice. Their newest ships, like the Icon of the Seas and Wonder of the Seas, tend to come with high price tags. However, if you’re willing to sail on their older ships, like those from the Vision, Voyager, and Freedom classes, you can snag a good deal. While it might be a bit trickier, you could even find budget-friendly fares on older Quantum and Oasis class cruise ships.

Despite not being the cheapest, Royal Caribbean offers great value for families. With a wide range of amenities and activities onboard, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. From thrilling water slides to Broadway-style shows, the cruise line ensures there’s never a dull moment during your cruise.

The best deals on Royal Caribbean are usually found on their Caribbean cruises . One popular promotion is the “Kids Sail Free” offer, where children under 12 can cruise for free when sharing a cabin with two paying adults. Additionally, Royal Caribbean often runs sales offering discounts on the second guest in a cabin, sometimes up to 50% off, making it more affordable for couples or friends traveling together. 

Price range: ≈$60 to $100 per person, per night Savings to consider: Kids Sail Free, Discounts on Second Guest Cheapest cruise (7 nights): Southbound Alaska & Hubbard Glacier Cheapest overall cruise: 2 Night Ensenada Cruise

Costa Cruises

Costa Cruises, an Italian-based line, primarily offers cruises around the Mediterranean, though you might also find some headed to the Caribbean. What makes Costa stand out is its low prices all year round, making it a budget-friendly option for many travelers. While you might not find as many onboard amenities and activities compared to other lines, there’s still a good variety to keep most guests entertained.

For those looking to save even more, joining Costa Cruise’s C|Club can be a great move. Membership in this club opens up access to exclusive rewards and privileges that can enhance your cruising experience, offering even more value for your trip. Families, in particular, will find Costa Cruises appealing due to the numerous deals available, including discounts for children. 

Price range: ≈$50 to $130 per person, per night Savings to consider: C|Club, Family Discounts Cheapest cruise (7 nights): 8 Days, Mediterranean Cheapest cruise (overall): 3 Days, Mediterranean

Holland America Line

Holland America Line is known for being a bit more upscale compared to other cruise lines, though it still offers lots of deals and great value for money. They even offer very affordable short cruises, lasting just 1 or 2 days. With a fleet of 11 ships, Holland America Line takes its passengers to destinations all around the globe, from Alaska , the Caribbean, to the historic ports of Europe.

One of the best perks of sailing with Holland America Line is their special offers for families. For instance, on select sailings, children under 18 can cruise for free. Additionally, they often have promotions that include discounted airfares to the port of departure, free internet minutes to stay connected while at sea, and onboard credit that you can spend on various amenities and activities.

Additionally, Holland America Line frequently runs promotions where the third or fourth guest in a room can sail for free. If you’re a frequent cruiser, consider joining the line’s loyalty program: the Mariner Society. This program is designed to reward loyal guests with a variety of benefits and perks that can help save money.

Price range: ≈$100 to $200 per person, per night Savings to consider: Mariner Society, Kids Cruise Free, Discounts on 3rd/4th Guests, Onboard Credit Cheapest cruise (7 nights): 8-Day Eastern Caribbean: Greater Antilles & Leeward Islands Cheapest overall cruise: 1-Day Pacific Northwest

Norwegian Cruise Line

Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) might not be the most affordable line out there, but it certainly offers great value for your money. This is because NCL often includes free drinks, Wi-Fi, and even excursions in the base fare. The company has a fleet of 19 ships and offers cruises all over the globe. It’s worth noting that the fares for their newest ships, like Viva and Prima, tend to be on the higher side. 

Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) is famous for its all-inclusive “Free at Sea” promotions. This means that when you book your cruise, you can choose extras like free drinks, Wi-Fi, or even excursions without paying more than your base fare. It’s a great way to make your cruise more enjoyable without any additional costs.

If you’re looking for special deals, you might want to join the NCL Latitudes Reward Program. This program offers exclusive benefits and deals that aren’t available to everyone. Also, NCL often has offers where children can cruise for free as part of their “kids sail free” promotions, making it an even more attractive option for families looking to enjoy a vacation at sea.

Price range: ≈$100 to $200 per person, per night Savings to consider: Free at Sea, Kids Sail Free, NCL Latitudes Reward Program Cheapest cruise (7 nights): Canada & New England from New York, New York Cheapest cruise (overall): Caribbean: Puerto Plata from Punta Cana (La Romana), Dominican Republic

Princess Cruises

Princess Cruises is slightly more upscale when compared to other lines. Despite this, the line manages to keep its cruise fares accessible, making it a popular choice for travelers seeking great value. Princess sails across the world and offers plenty of discounts throughout the year.

Princess Cruises has fare packages like Princess Plus and Premier Fares. While these packages do increase the overall cost of your trip, they come packed with benefits. Included in these deals are Wi-Fi access, drink packages, gratuities, and the potential to save up to 66% compared to buying these services separately.

Additionally, Princess Cruises is known for its many promotions, which can include up to 40% off regular prices and low deposit requirements of only $100. The line also offers cheap cruise deals where kids sail free, making it a great choice for families. Princess Cruises also offers up to $250 in free onboard spending for active military and retired veterans. 

Price range: ≈$75 to $200 per person, per night Savings to consider: Kids Sail Free, Discounts for Military, Low Deposit Deals Cheapest cruise (7 nights): 8-Day Western Caribbean with Mexico Cheapest cruise (overall): 2-Day Australia Seacation

Top 8 Cheapest Cruise Lines for Your Next Vacation – FAQ

What is a good price for a cruise.

A good price for a cruise can vary widely based on the destination, the cruise line, and the time of year. However, as a general guideline, a cheap cruise price per person per day is anywhere under $150. For a 7-night cruise, a good total price per person is anything under $1400. Although sometimes it’s worth paying more to get better value.

What is the cheapest month to cruise?

The cheapest months to go on a cruise vary by destination due to factors like weather and tourist seasons. For the Caribbean , September is often the least expensive month because it’s the peak of hurricane season. In Alaska, May and September are cheaper since they’re at the start and end of the cruising season, avoiding the busy and pricey summer months. For the Mediterranean, November through March is generally less expensive, outside the peak tourist season, although the weather can be cooler and less predictable.

When is the cheapest time to book a cruise?

The cheapest time to book a cruise is often during “wave season,” which runs from January to March, when cruise lines offer great deals to encourage early bookings for the year. Additionally, booking either well in advance or last minute can also snag you some good discounts. Early bookings might get you lower prices and better cabin choices, while last-minute deals are great for those flexible with their plans and not too picky about cabin locations.

How can I save money on a cruise?

Saving money on a cruise can start with booking your trip during the off-peak seasons. During these times, cruise lines often offer lower prices and special deals to attract more guests. Another smart way to save is by being flexible with your departure ports; sometimes, driving or flying a short distance to a different port can significantly lower the cost of your cruise. Also, consider booking an interior cabin since they are usually cheaper than ocean-view or balcony rooms, which can greatly reduce your overall spending.

Once on board, you can also save money by avoiding extra expenses. Stick to the free dining options available on the cruise instead of dining at specialty restaurants, which often charge additional fees. Take advantage of the free entertainment and activities provided, rather than spending extra on paid experiences or excursions.

Related Articles:

• How Much Does a Cruise Cost? (2024)
• How Much Is a Cruise to the Bahamas? (2024)
• How Much Is a Cruise to Alaska? (2024)

Adam Stewart

Adam Stewart is the founder of Cruise Galore. He is a passionate traveler who loves cruising. Adam's goal is to enhance your cruising adventures with practical tips and insightful advice, making each of your journeys unforgettable.

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10 Cheapest Cruises You Can Book In 2023

10 cheapest cruises you can book in 2023. Don't miss this opportunity to get a great deal on your next cruise!

The wonderful thing about cruising is that there is something for everyone, from those who want the many free amenities on cruise ships for passengers to those who prefer to keep their expenses to a minimum. People can treat themselves to a first-class experience by splurging on amenities such as suite cabins, drink packages, and excursions, maybe explore many hidden areas on cruise ships, or they may keep their expenses to a minimum and still have an amazing trip.

If tourists know where to search, they won't have any trouble finding good deals. That's the good news. There may be so many that vacationers will need help to narrow them down to a manageable number. Cruise ship staff have different lives , and passengers may get to experience them as they board.

10 Caribbean Cruise For Seven Nights On The Norwegian Breakaway

Among the major cruise lines, Norwegian Cruise Lines is known for charging the highest prices. These were the largest cruise ships in the world as of 2022 . A weeklong Caribbean trip with this cruise, starting April 9, 2023, costs less than $500 per person, including a visit to NCL's own private island. This trip begins in New Orleans and continues on the Norwegian Breakaway. Customers will first visit Costa Maya in the south, then continue to NCL's Harvest Caye, Roatan, and Cozumel. Four stops will be at different ports in a week , allowing passengers to spend ample time exploring each destination and relaxing on board.

• Cruise: 7-Night cruise to the Western Caribbean
• Cost: $469 USD per person

RELATED: Half Moon Cay: What To Know Of Carnival Cruise's Exclusive Island

9 Eight Nights On The Carnival Magic Cruising The Caribbean

Wonderfully, for less than $500, passengers may enjoy more than a week at sea, visiting several highly sought-after places of call. The Carnival Magic will depart from Miami on December 22 for a weeklong Caribbean cruise to ports like Amber Cove, San Juan, St. Maarten, and St. Thomas. The cruise will visit four different cities , and passengers will get three days at sea to relax and use the ship's facilities. Guests may relax at the spa, have fun at the waterpark, and then eat at either Cucina del Capitano or Guy's Burger Joint.

• Cruise: 8 Night cruise to the Southern Caribbean
• Cost: $484 USD per person

8 Seven-Night Alaskan Cruise On The Radiance Of The Seas

Cruises to Alaska are often more costly than those to the Caribbean. It is more cost-effective to take a cruise in May or September. This journey is a perfect illustration. It's possible to take a cruise to Alaska for less than $400 per person. What a ridiculously low price! Radiance of the Seas sails from Vancouver to Alaska. Sitka, Endicott Arm, Juneau, and Ketchikan are all stops on the itinerary. Say, a cruise through Alaska has always been something some have wanted. Thus, this vacation provides a chance to see beautiful scenery without breaking the bank.

• Cruise: Seven-night cruise to Alaska
• Cost: $371 USD per person

7 Six-Night Caribbean Cruise On The Allure Of The Seas

In addition to Florida, Galveston is a major cruise port in the United States. And unlike Miami or Orlando, it's within driving distance of millions of people, so they can save money by staying put. With the addition of a third cruise port, the island can now accommodate Royal Caribbean's Oasis-class ships, the largest cruise ships in the world. Among these vessels is the Allure of the Seas. This onboard the Allure is a steal compared to other cruises on similar ships.

• Cruise: 5-night cruise to the Western Caribbean
• Cost: $490 USD per person

RELATED: 10 Biggest Cruise Ships In The World As Of 2023

6 Seven-Night Cruise To The Bahamas On The MSC Meraviglia

After looking for months, most people are surprised to discover such an inexpensive trip. Cruise pricing for this seven-day trip starts at only $249 per person (of course, taxes and fees will increase the price). It's common to find cruises of that length for that pricing with a few rules all passengers should follow on cruise ships . We haven't seen a seven-day vacation this inexpensive before. The ship will sail from New York towards Port Canaveral (Orlando). After spending the day at Ocean Cay in Nassau, customers will return to New York. A cruise with such a low price tag is really unusual.

• Cruise: 7-Night Cruise to the Bahamas
• Cost: $299 USD per person

5 Five-Night Caribbean Cruise On The Carnival Freedom

The Carnival Freedom departs from Port Canaveral and offers vacationers the opportunity to sail the Caribbean for 5 nights for as little as $274 a person. After setting sail on November 25 , passengers will spend one day at sea, then travel to Amber Cove and Grand Turk, followed by another day before arriving back in Port Canaveral. The Carnival Freedom is one of the oldest ships in the fleet. However, it has been rebuilt to include many of Carnival's most popular features and amenities.

• Cruise: 5-night cruise to the Eastern Caribbean
• Cost: $261 USD per person

4 Three-Night Bahamas Cruise Aboard The Liberty Of The Seas

It's possible that readers have noticed a pattern here: several of the cruises toward the bottom of the list all leave from Florida and make a quick journey to the Bahamas. This cruise on Royal Caribbean also meets those criteria. From Fort Lauderdale, passengers will cruise to Nassau and then continue on to Royal Caribbean's own island, CocoCay. When it comes to private islands for cruises, CocoCay is without peers. Even though it's a short trip, tourists may have a lot of fun without breaking the bank.

• Cruise: 3-night cruise to the Bahamas
• Cost: $319 USD per person

RELATED: Waterslide Right Into The Ocean On This Luxury Cruise Ship

3 Five-Night Caribbean Cruise On The Voyager Of The Seas

From Galveston, tourists may choose from various reasonably priced cruise options. This is because visitors may choose from a variety of short sailings departing from the island, with the cost per day decreasing as the amount of time spent at sea decreases. Two relaxing sea days highlight this 5-night cruise from October 21 to 25 onboard Royal Caribbean's Voyager of the Seas, which also visits Costa Maya and Cozumel. The cruise is ideal for individuals wishing to spend some time at sea just to escape it all. They will have two days to see the stunning Mexican Riviera and plenty of time to unwind (and tan) aboard the cruise.

• Cost: $282 USD per person

2 Three-Night Bahamas Cruise On The Carnival Liberty

This one is only $144, which is like taking a vacation for the price of a new pair of shoes (albeit add around $110 for port fees and taxes per person). The scheduled departure date for this voyage is February 10, 2023 . The ship leaves Port Canaveral and travels through the night to Nassau, where passengers will disembark the following morning. After spending the day in Nassau, Bahamas, guests will spend the next day at sea before arriving back in Port Canaveral the following morning. The voyage lasts for an unbelievable three days, hardly enough time to become acquainted with the ship before one has to get off. However, the pricing is ridiculously low.

• Cost: $166 USD per person

1 Four-Night Caribbean Cruise Aboard The Carnival Conquest

Those with a penchant for Carnival and a pressing desire to sail the high seas could like this cruise. The price for this four-night trip by a well-known company is less than $200 per person. The departure date for this cruise is December 4 ; other sailings take place throughout the year. It leaves from Miami, makes a stop in Key West for a day, and then sails to Cozumel before spending the final day of its journey at sea before arriving back in Miami.

• Cruise: 4-night cruise to the Eastern Caribbean
• Cost: $201 USD per person

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12 Dirt-Cheap Cruises for 2024 (Starting at $169)

Looking for a cheap cruise? We’re talking really inexpensive — cheaper than many flat-panel TVs and less expensive than a new couch. In other words, cruises so cheap that it’s more affordable to take a vacation than to be a couch potato.

The great thing about cruising is that there is something for everyone, from luxury lovers to penny-pinchers. You can go first-class if you want, paying up for things like suite cabins, alcohol packages, and excursions — or you can also spend just a little and still have a great vacation.

The good news is deals aren’t hard to find if you know where to look. In fact, there can be so many that you might have trouble whittling down your options.

How to Find Cheap Cruises

First and foremost — to start your hunt for cheap cruises, we always recommend visiting a third-party cruise booking site like Cruise Critic, Expedia, Orbitz, or others.

When you start your search, you have tons of different options. You can go straight to a cruise line’s website to find deals. However, when you do that you are limiting your search only to trips on that company’s cruises. Unless you’re an avid fan of one cruise line, this isn’t the best way to plan your voyage, since it gives you only a small sliver of what’s out there.

On the “aggregator” travel sites you can set up search parameters for all the cruise lines at once, then sort by price, departure port, date and more. That’s why we like to start our search on these sorts of websites. It gives you all your options instead of just one line.

Beyond that, there are a few other simple tips for cruise fans shopping for dirt-cheap fares.

While we have a full list of rules on getting the best deal on a cruise , the easiest way to find an inexpensive trip is to keep these things in mind:

• Look for shorter cruises (shorter = cheaper)
• Sail when school is in session (off-season means lower fares)
• Book an inside cabin (balconies are more expensive)
• Sail aboard an older ship (older ships have cheaper fares)

These four factors will have the largest impact on what you pay for a cruise .

Below, we’ve rounded up some of the flat-out cheapest cruises we could find across a variety of ports, cruise lines, and itineraries. Keep in mind that these prices can change by the time that you book your trip. Prices listed are per person for an interior room before taxes and fees.

Cruises Under $200 Per Person

Yes, it’s possible to take a cruise for under $200 per person. We’ve found cruises on several different lines offering inside cabin rates that cost less than most monthly car payments.

4-Night MSC Bahamas Cruise | September 12, 2024 | $199

Want to take a break… but don’t have time to leave for a week or more? This cruise is only three days, but will get you out into some of the most beautiful water in the world. And at less than $200, it’s a steal.

MSC Seashore will sail a 3-night round trip cruise departing Port Canaveral on September 12. The ship will visit Nassau, then call at MSC’s Ocean Cay Marine Reserve in the Bahamas. It’s a quick trip, but if you want an easy getaway and don’t want to break the bank, this is a great option.

• Learn more about this cruise
• Ship: MSC Seashore
• Departure Port: Port Canaveral

4-Night MSC Bahamas Cruise | March 29, 2024 | $169

When it comes to the least expensive cruises, we found the most options from MSC Cruises . This cruise aboard the MSC Magnifica sets sail in late March for three nights.

The trip will take you to Key West for a day to visit one of the most popular cruise ports of call in the world. From there, you’ll head to MSC’s private island Ocean Cay for a stay. 

We’ve personally spent time on Ocean Cay. and if you are a fan of electric blue water and white-sand beaches, you can’t go wrong spending time on the island.

• Ship: MSC Magnifica
• Departure Port: Miami

4-Night Carnival Bahamas Cruise | December 2, 2024 | $189

If you love Carnival and just need to get on a ship, then this cruise might be for you. It’s a four-night cruise from the popular line that comes in at less than $200 per person for cruise fare.

This particular sailing departs December 2, but there are more dates are available throughout the year. It departs Miami, spends a day at sea, followed by a visit to the Princess Cays (Carnival’s private destination), and then on to Nassau before heading home.

As with some other cheap cruises on our list, this trip sails an older ship. Still, the Carnival Conquest has been updated and boasts many of Carnival’s popular bars and eateries including Guy’s Burger Joint, RedFrog Rum Bar, BlueIguana Cantina, as well as an Alchemy Bar and Punchliner Comedy Club.

• Ship: Carnival Conquest

4-Night Carnival Mexico Cruise | December 15, 2024 | $184 

The absolute least expensive Carnival cruise we could find? It’s this one for just $184 — a vacation for about the cost of a pair of fancy sneakers (though port fees and taxes add about $120 per person).

This particular sailing leaves on December 15, 2024. Departing Los Angeles, it heads to sea for a day, then it’s a day in port at Catalina Island. Following that, it’s a stop in Ensenada,. Mexico before returning to Los Angeles the following morning. 

At just four days, it’s a short cruise with just enough time to find your way around the ship before it’s time to leave. That said, it comes with an unbelievably low price tag. 

• Ship: Carnival Radiance
• Departure Port: Los Angeles

Cruises Under $300 Per Person

Spending slightly more than $200 per person can give you a few more choices – including slightly longer voyages, and visits to different destinations. Here’s a list of some of the great options you can find in the $200-$300 per person range.

4-Night Royal Caribbean Mexico Cruise | September 26, 2024 | $290

You can find plenty of affordable cruise choices for sailing out of Galveston. That’s because there are a number of short sailings from the island, and the fewer days on the ship, the less you’ll pay.

This 4-night voyage aboard Royal Caribbean’s Mariner of the Seas departs September 26 and features two blissful sea days, with a stop in Cozumel in between. If you’re looking to simply get out of town and want some time at sea, this trip fits the bill. It will give you plenty of time to relax (and work on your tan) on the ship, as well as some time exploring the beautiful Mexican Riviera. 

• Ship: Mariner of the Seas
• Departure Port: Galveston

3-Night Royal Caribbean Bahamas Cruise | November 1, 2024 | $270

You might start to see a trend that many of the cheapest cruises on our list have a common feature of departing from Florida and heading over on a short trip to the Bahamas. This trip aboard Royal Caribbean fits that bill as well.

This sailing aboard the Liberty of the Seas will take you from Fort Lauderdale over to Nassau, followed by a trip to CocoCay, Royal Caribbean’s private island . CocoCay has set the bar in cruise line private islands and can’t be missed.

It’s a quick trip, but will pack in a lot of fun for not a lot of money.

• Ship: Liberty of the Seas
• Departure Port: Fort Lauderdale

5-Night Carnival Caribbean Cruise | December 2, 2024 | $294

You can book a 5-night Caribbean cruise aboard Carnival Freedom sailing out of Port Canaveral for as little as $294. Yes, there are less expensive five-night cruises from the line ( some as little as $209 per person ), but the combination of ship and itinerary is tough to beat.

The voyage departs on December 2, and includes a day at sea, followed by visits to Grand Turk and Amber Cove , then another sea day before returning to Port Canaveral.

Although the Carnival Freedom is one of the fleet’s older ships, it has been refurbished to offer lots of Carnival favorites. It has one of the cruise line’s trademark WaterWorks waterparks and the Serenity Adult-Only Retreat, along with all the well-known food experiences Carnival fans love – including Guy’s Burger Joint and BlueIguana Cantina.

• Ship: Carnival Freedom

6-Night Royal Caribbean Pacific Coast Cruise | September 22, 2024 | $227

When we searched for dirt-cheap cruises, we never dreamed we’d find something this inexpensive.

This is a six-night cruise aboard Royal Caribbean’s Brilliance of the Seas for only $227 per person in cruise fare (of course, taxes and fees will increase the price). That’s a price that’s normally found on three-day cruises. It’s among the cheapest longer trips we’ve ever seen. The catch? It’s a repositioning cruise, meaning it’s one-way.

The cruise departs Vancouver, Canada, headed to Los Angeles. During the trip, there are stops in Victoria, San Francisco, and Catalina Island — three beautiful ports that shouldn’t be missed.

• Ship: Brilliance of the Seas
• Departure Port: Vancouver, BC

Cruises Under $500 Per Person

Going up slightly in price while remaining within the budget-cruise range can get you a slightly longer cruise time, which means more port visits, and/or longer port stays.

6-Night Royal Caribbean Western Caribbean Cruise | September 8, 2024 | $491

Outside of Florida, Galveston is one of the biggest cruise hubs in the country. It’s also within driving distance for tens of millions of people, saving on the cost of flying to Miami or Orlando.

In fact, with the introduction of a third cruise terminal, the island is now also home to Royal Caribbean’s Oasis-class ships — the largest on the planet.

Harmony of the Seas is one of those ships. This cruise aboard Harmony is dirt-cheap, especially for the ability to sail on one of these massive vessels with tons to do. The cruise leaves and heads south to Costa Maya, Roatan, and Cozumel.

In addition, you have two days at sea to enjoy all the ship has to offer before you have to go back to the real world.

• Ship: Harmony of the Seas

7-Night Royal Caribbean Alaska Cruise | May 13, 2024 | $448

Compared to Caribbean cruises, Alaskan trips are usually more expensive. You can save money by sailing early in the season (May) or late in the season (September). This trip is a great example. It allows you to sail to Alaska for under $500 per person in cruise fare. That’s a dirt-cheap price.

The sailing aboard Quantum of the Seas departs Seattle to head up to Alaska. You’ll stop in Sitka, Skagway, cruise the Endicott Arm, then stop in Juneau and Victoria. 

If you’ve ever had an Alaskan cruise on your bucket list, this trip is an opportunity to experience the amazing landscape without it costing a fortune.

• Ship: Quantum of the Seas
• Departure Port: Seattle

8-Night Carnival Caribbean Cruise | October 5, 2024 | $499

Treat yourself to more than a full week of cruising — including some incredibly desirable ports of call — for less than $500 with this wonderfully inexpensive cruise. An 8-night Caribbean cruise aboard Carnival Magic , this route will sail from Miami October 5, bound for Amber Cove, San Juan, St. Maarten, and St. Thomas.

In addition to four ports of call, the itinerary also includes three sea days — giving you a chance to to take advantage of the vessel’s many amenities. Let yourself be pampered at Cloud 9 Spa, or indulge in some waterpark thrills, then grab a meal at Cucina del Capitano or Guy’s Burger Joint.

• Ship: Carnival Magic

6-Night Princess Caribbean Cruise | April 14, 2024  | $309

Princess is known for being more luxurious and more adult-oriented than lines like Carnival and Royal Caribbean that focus on families. That’s why many people wanting to really relax — without so many kids on their cruise — will be excited about this deal.

With this cruise aboard Caribbean Princess, you’ll have six days to unwind as you head from Fort Lauderdale to Princess Cays, Grand Turk, and Nassau. There are also two days at sea. Best of all, the fare comes in at just $309 per person before taxes and fees, or only about $50 a day to sail Princess.

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Up to 20% Savings to Explore North America in 2023

Explore North America with American Queen Voyages and enjoy up to 20% Early Booking Savings on select voyages in 2023. Plus, pay-in-full at the time of reservation and receive an additional 5% Advance Payment Savings. To book, call (833) 992-2466. Offer ends January 1, 2023.

Cheap World Cruise Cruise Deals

Cruise Critic can help you find affordable cruise deals to World Cruise. Choose from the best cruise deals and specials for World Cruise cruises. Save up to 84% on last minute World Cruise cruises. For the best cruise deals, it’s best to book far in advance of your trip. Popular time cruise deals are released is during wave season (January - March).

Popular World Cruise cruises often sail to Crete, Cape Town, Bodrum, Catania and Argostoli (Kefalonia) during their cruise itinerary. World Cruise cruises could leave from Colon, Lisbon, Los Angeles, Singapore and California. Most commonly, World Cruise cruises sail for 6-9 Days days.

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Sail to the destination of your dreams from the departure port that works best for you. Enjoy cruise perks all for one affordable price. Similar to a traditional all inclusive vacation, food and entertainment on board is included in your cruise fare. Most cruise lines also offer a special and affordable drink package for your trip. Different from an all inclusive resort, you wake up at a new port throughout your vacation rather than the same scenery.

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The best cruise lines in the world: 2023 Readers' Choice Awards

By Condé Nast Traveller

The survey for the 2024 Readers' Choice Awards is open, vote now for your favourite places, hotels, airports, cruise lines, travel fixers and more.

Cruises are booming right now, buoyed partly by the popularity of domestic seacations that hauled in first-time sailors. So much so that Regent Seven Seas Cruises’ 34,000-mile world trip for 2024 sold out in just over two hours, while the adults-only Virgin Voyages, which aims to throw cruise stereotypes overboard, rose to first place in Large Ships. And we’ve brought back last year's new category showcasing the expedition cruises – small, often sustainable vessels with a shoal of scientific experts onboard – that follow in the wake of adventurers such as Sir Ernest Shackleton.

These are the best cruise lines in the world, according to the 2023 Readers' Choice Awards .

The best cruise lines in the world 2023

Mega ships (More than 4,000 passengers)

4. MSC Cruises. Score 83.42 3. Carnival Cruise Line. Score 85.35 2. Royal Caribbean International. Score 86.69 1. Norwegian Cruise Line. Score 86.72.

Large ships (2,500 to 4,000 passengers)

10. MSC Cruises. Score 83.77 9. Royal Caribbean International. Score 84.31 8. Norwegian Cruise Line. Score 86.41 7. Holland America Line. Score 87.79 6. Costa Cruises. Score 87.95 5. Celebrity Cruises. Score 88.57 4. Princess Cruises. Score 89.42 3. Cunard. Score 89.55 2. Disney Cruise Line. Score 92.21 1. Virgin Voyages. Score 94.07

Medium ships (500 to 2,500 passengers)

15. Carnival Cruise Line. Score 80.56 14. P&O Cruises. Score 83.29 13. Princess Cruises. Score 84.84 12. Marella Cruises. Score 85.60 11. Hurtigruten. Score 86.23 10. Cunard. Score 86.33 9. Holland America Line. Score 86.42 8. Celebrity Cruises. Score 86.68 7. Azamara. Score 87.50 6. Silversea Cruises. Score 87.74 5. Oceania Cruises. Score 87.99 4. Regent Seven Seas Cruises. Score 91.07 3. Seabourn. Score 91.67 2. Disney Cruise Line. Score 92.92 1. Viking. Score 94.98

Small ships (Fewer than 500 passengers)

10. Variety Cruises. Score 86.75 9. SeaDream Yacht Club. Score 89.66 8. Silversea. Score 89.93 7. Seabourn. Score 91.34 6. Ponant. Score 91.45 5. Windstar Cruises. Score 91.87 4. Sea Cloud Cruises. Score 91.94 3. American Cruise Lines. Score 92.88 2. Paul Gauguin Cruises. Score 92.94 1. Emerald Cruises. Score 95.27

10. AmaWaterways. Score 93.09 9. Sanctuary Retreats. Score 93.14 8. Uniworld River Cruises. Score 93.24 7. Pandaw. Score 95.28 6. Grand Circle Cruise Line. Score 95.69 5. Les Bateaux Belmond. Score 95.90 4. Oberoi Hotels & Resorts. Score 95.91 3. Tauck. Score 96.14 2. American Cruise Lines. Score 96.66 1. Viking. Score 97.32

Expedition ships

15. Alaskan Dream Cruises. Score 80.77 14. Lindblad Expeditions. Score 91.23 13. Silversea Cruises. Score 91.81 12. Hurtigruten. Score 91.87 11. Ponant. Score 92.25 10. Quark Expeditions. Score 93.15 9. Seabourn. Score 93.37 8. Metropolitan Touring. Score 94.71 7. Quasar Expeditions. Score 94.91 6. Celebrity Cruises. Score 95.38 5. Scenic Luxury Cruises & Tours. Score 95.80 4. Ecoventura. Score 95.82 3. Aqua Expeditions. Score 95.97 2. UnCruise Adventures. Score 96.41 1. Viking. Score 96.52

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Find the best cruise vacation for you

How can i find a cheap cruise.

Cheap cruise deals are fairly easy to find in most cases, and you can begin by considering what kind of features and itinerary you want. The more simplistic the experience is, the cheaper it is in general. On Expedia.com, you can filter for specific features and sort your results by price. By mixing and matching certain features, unforgettable experiences may be available with discount cruises. For example, booking a cruise with stunning restaurants and live performances while opting for an inside cabin without an ocean view window or balcony could be ideal for a traveler who doesn't plan on spending much time in their cabin anyways

What is the cheapest month to take a cruise?

The cheapest month to take a cruise varies based on your destination and the cruise line company that runs the ship. A Caribbean cruise , for example, is generally cheapest in the late summer and early fall since it's the local hurricane season.

Can I cancel my cruise booking?

Yes, you can cancel, but there may be fees for canceling depending on how far in advance you cancel and what kind of booking you have. You can check the specific cruise lines’ cancellation policies in your itinerary on Expedia.com.

Are river cruises worth the money?

River cruises are quite relaxing, with much more varied scenery than you'd experience on an ocean cruise. These ships often also feature several stops along the river, so passengers can enjoy a greater variety of destinations to explore. Viking river cruises are especially adept at providing this unforgettable experience.

What cruises are best for families?

The best family cruises in 2024 / 2025 tend to be Disney cruises with plenty of offerings for kids and adults alike, though MSC cruises are known for their iconic Children Cruise Free promotion. Disney cruises, specifically, are essentially a Disney theme park on a boat with live shows, rides, and attractions with your kids' favorite characters.

How much does a cruise ship cost?

Cruise prices can vary quite a bit, with cheap cruises and especially luxurious all-inclusive cruises available. Budget lines can offer cruise tickets as low as $50 per night in some cases, while the more high-end experiences can reach up to $1,000 per night and more.

What are some of the best cruise lines?

Several different cruise lines have a lot to offer, such as Viking cruises , which are known for traversing oceans and rivers with a style that blends outdoor and indoor splendor. Celebrity cruise line is more upscale with luxurious features like WiFi, included beverages, champagne, and suites with panoramic views. Other top cruise lines include Royal Caribbean International , Carnival Cruise , Disney Cruise , and Norwegian Cruise .

How far in advance do you need to book a cruise?

It's generally best to book a cruise about 6 to 12 months before your cruise departure. That's the safest way to balance availability and affordability. Technically, you can book earlier or later than that, with some last-minute cruise deals occasionally available up to a weekbefore cruise departure.

Are cruise trips affordable?

They can be, and it's especially simple to search for more affordable cruises with Expedia.com. Not only can you filter by cruise length, cruise line, and cabin experience, but you may also sort your results by price to put the more affordable options first on your search results page.

What is it like to go on a cruise?

A cruise is generally designed to offer the most relaxing experience possible. Despite the size of the ship, it's possible to feel the wave. Many passengers report that the movements help them sleep. Additionally, many fun cruises offer live stage performances, several restaurants, and shopping opportunities. When the ship is in international waters, you may even be able to enjoy a bit of tax-free shopping.

Are cruises a good way to travel?

Cruise travel is great if you're looking for some varied fun. Compared to a plane or a train, cruises have their own attractions and can be considered an integral part of cruise vacations. Plus, a cruise can hit several different destinations as well, with plenty of time to enjoy the cruise and scenic locales. It's certainly worth it for a unique experience no other method of travel can match.

Which cruise line is the cheapest?

The actual cheapest cruise available depends on a variety of different factors. Still, Carnival Cruise tends to be very affordable overall, most of the time with great options like the Carnival Sunrise and Carnival Horizon . Royal Caribbean is also another fantastic cruise line offering great deals if you are watching your budget.

How can I get the best cruise deals in 2024 / 2025?

If you're looking for some of the best cruise deals, booking through Expedia.com makes it easy since you can sort your cruise search results by price and have access to special deals. One Key members can earn  OneKeyCash  on all eligible bookings and get instant discounts with Member Prices. Sign up today!

What do I need to know when I book a cruise?

To book a cruise, you'll need to know where you'll be setting off from and where you'll be going, in addition to how many people will be with you and the features of the specific cruise you book. Keep in mind that you'll want to factor in spending money in your budget for the cruise's restaurants and shops in most cases.

Where should I go on a cruise in 2024 / 2025?

Plenty of incredible cruise destinations are accessible such as cruises to the Bahamas and cruises to Mexico . You may also be interested in cruises to Alaska or cruises to Europe for something outside of the Caribbean.

What countries are best to visit by cruise ship?

A lot of countries are accessible via a cruise, but the best include a cruise to Australia . However, a cruise to Australia is quite a long trip at sea and really allows you to take in everything the cruise ship has to offer.

Can I get last-minute cruise deals?

Yes, last-minute cruise deals are often available, and you can find them on Expedia.com by inputting your travel dates in your search and sorting your results by price. The deals will automatically be applied to the price estimates so that the cheapest estimates will show up first on your search results page.

Are cruises all-inclusive?

Cruises aren't always all-inclusive, but they can be. If you're interested in all-inclusive cruises, you can activate a search filter for it to ensure your search results only show cruises that meet your all-inclusive standard.

Is food free on a cruise?

Food is sometimes free on a cruise, but there are often specialty restaurants that aren't included with the general booking that you'll have to pay for separately. Check the details of each cruise before you book in the "What's included" section after clicking the cruise on your search results page.

What cruise lines are adults only?

Several lines offer adults-only cruise experiences, including Viking cruises , Carnival cruises , and Princess cruises . With an adults-only cruise, you can relax in a tranquil and laid-back setting without kids running around and enjoy all the cocktails you want.

What cruise lines are considered to be the most luxurious?

Viking cruises are considered exceptionally luxurious, with smaller ships and larger cabins that make them feel more exclusive, but Celebrity cruises offer luxury cruise lines too. Booking a luxury cruise means you can expect high-end amenities including gourmet restaurants, sizable suites, top-tier performances, massive pools, and much more.

What are the best cruises for couples?

Viking Cruises have much to offer for a more romantic experience. Holland America Line cruises can be quite refined and romantic as well, with an adult-oriented experience that's sophisticated rather than rowdy. Romantic cruises offer exceptional service as well as cozy suites for you and your partner to enjoy that's complemented by delicious food often themed around the cruise destination.

Why should I go on a cruise for my honeymoon?

Going on a cruise is a great way for you and your new spouse to be pampered with luxury while also being able to explore a new destination. Whether you're taking a cruise to Hawaii or a cruise to Bermuda , a particularly romantic experience is almost guaranteed thanks to the sheer number of things to do.

Are there any Christmas cruises?

Yes, quite a few cruise lines operate around Christmas, and you can find them easily by entering travel dates around Christmas into your 2024 cruise search. Some of the most popular Christmas cruises are available with Carnival and Disney.

Do I need a passport to go on a cruise?

Whether or not you need a passport depends on where you're going and the kind of cruise it is. Any US territory like Bermuda and Puerto Rico won't require a passport, of course, but you also don't need one if you're on a closed-loop cruise. This is a cruise that begins and ends at a US cruise terminal, even if there are stops in other countries on the way.

Why should I book a cruise with Expedia.com?

Booking a cruise with Expedia.com makes it easy to find a cruise type that works best for you. You can use the cruise finder and sort by cruise line, type, destination, length, and itinerary. One Key members also earn OneKeyCash on all eligible bookings that can be used to save on future eligible trips.

What happens if a cruise is canceled?

Every cruise has a different cancellation policy, but generally, passengers are entitled to either a full refund or a credit for a future cruise at a later date. Remember that they may automatically change your booking to their rescheduled date, so you may have to contact them if that date doesn't work for your schedule.

*OneKeyCash is not redeemable for cash and can only be used on Expedia,  Hotels.com  and Vrbo.

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Roaming Around the World

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A Cheap World Cruise: Tips & Tricks for How to Afford the Voyage

June 5, 2023 By John Widmer 32 Comments

Is a cheap world cruise actually possible?

That’s the question we asked ourselves.

So we thoroughly investigated this seemingly impossible travel desire and then went on to plan a cruise around the world, filled with a mix of luxury and adventure. Ultimately we were successful in piecing together a cheap round the world cruise that amounted to only $60 per person, per day , all costs included.

We’re now here to show you how you can afford to enjoy an inexpensive world cruise as we also detail what this grand voyage was like.

Throughout six years of nonstop travels around the world to 100 countries, we’ve made a concerted effort to uncover some of the best travel values in the world , while stretching our travel dollars as far as possible.

We’ve already shown how many seemingly extravagant travel experiences can be affordable. For example, we’ve proven how to visit the Galapagos on a Budget , take an African Safari for $50/Day , or even have a Luxury Trip to Egypt on a Budget .

Yet we gave ourselves the biggest budget travel challenge we’d ever set out on: attempting a cheap around-the-world cruise .

Generally speaking, world cruises are indeed very expensive. But it’s a common misconception that such comprehensive voyages are beyond reach for budget-conscious travelers.

With careful planning and smart strategies, it’s entirely possible to experience the magic of an around-the-world cruise without breaking the bank. There are a number of ways to make world cruising more accessible. This guide will serve as your roadmap to inexpensive world cruises, bringing the dream of budget world cruising closer to reality. So, buckle up and get ready to explore the world on a shoestring budget.

• Cost of World Cruises
• Book a Low-Cost World Cruise
• Live on a Residential World Cruise Ship
• Combine Multiple One-Way Cruises to Form a Cheap World Cruise
• How to Form a Cheap World Cruise
• Eat & Drink for Less
• Find High-Value Accommodation
• Minimize Excursion & Activity Expenses
• Use Cost-Effective Transport
• World Cruise Costs and Total Expenses
• Where to Begin
• Book Cruises with Changing Seasons
• Which Direction: East-to-West or West-to-East?
• Planning Tip: Book the Aisa-Europe Segment First
• Cheap World Cruise Sample Itinerary 2023-2024
• Tips for an Even Cheaper World Cruise
• When to Book
• Best Cruise Lines to Book
• Best Sites to Search and Book
• Book a Cheap Stateroom
• How to Secure Inexpensive Visas
• Secure Travel Insurance to Protect Yourself
• Key Strategies to Achieve a Cheap World Cruise

The Cost of a World Cruise

The base price of a world cruise typically ranges between $10,000-$100,000 per person, based on double occupancy.

Yet a world cruise can easily exceed $200,000 for a multi-month grand voyage around the world. Take this Regent World Cruise for example. Beginning in Miami, in January 2025, this luxurious cruise around the world spanning 5.5 months looks nothing short of incredible. And it has an incredible price tag to match. This world cruise is currently “on sale” for $209,998.00 for two people. Yikes! This is not a cheap world cruise.

The price of this Regent world cruise works out to a daily rate of $1,249.99, or about $37,500 per month of world cruising. And those high prices don’t even factor in additional expenses, such as the many excursion costs and other add-ons. Ultimately, this half-year trip would likely well exceed a quarter million dollars. In other words, this Regent World Cruise is prohibitively expensive and out of reach for most of us.

While the cost of this world cruise may seem like a harsh reality, there are indeed less expensive world cruises . Cheap world cruises can be found for just over $10,000 per person, for the base fare. But taxes, port fees, and gratuities must be added to get the true price of any world cruise.

Realistically, a couple should plan to budget a bare minimum of $30,000 for the cheapest world cruise available. Yet a budget of $50,000-$100,000 (per couple) is a more realistic price range that would allow a nice assortment of world cruises to choose from and a less restrictive budget while on board.

That is still a lot of money to spend. So let’s now review how you can achieve a world cruise on a much lower budget.

Understand the Total Costs of World Cruise

When booking a world cruise at a low price, you must understand and budget for additional costs. When searching for cheap world cruises, the low advertised fare usually does not include many obligatory fees and expenses that will add thousands of dollars to the cruise fare.

Taxes and port fees : Taxes and port fees usually aren’t shown in the base cruise fare even though they must be paid as part of the total world cruise price. Be sure to see the total cost with taxes and port fees, which can add thousands of dollars.

Gratuities : Most cruise lines add gratuities to your cruise bill once onboard. Gratuities on world cruises typically range around $14-$16 per person per day. So for a full world cruise, this can easily add over $3,500 to a couple’s budget. Often the gratuities can be adjusted if you wish. But it would be cruel to deprive the hard-working crew of their wages if you’re on a world cruise that uses a tipping system as payment to the crew. If tips are expected on your world cruise, budget accordingly.

Travel insurance  is mandatory on some world cruises. Yet even if it’s not required, all world cruisers should strongly consider travel insurance to avoid financial hardships if unforeseen circumstances do occur. Couples can expect to spend a few thousand dollars extra for decent coverage. To save, don’t book directly with the cruise line. Compare policies that fit your needs.

Visas will likely be required for at least a few of the countries that a world cruise visits. For convenience, most world cruises will handle visas for you, for a fee, of course. To minimize costs, it’s usually possible to secure any necessary visas yourself, before the cruise.

Onshore expenses: Although it may be possible to get by on the world cruise itself without spending anything on the ship, world cruisers will almost certainly want to explore ashore. Whether booking excursions or going ashore independently, you will inevitably incur expenses whenever leaving the ship. The cost for port days can range wildly, depending on your travel style. These expenses can be easy to minimize expenses for those comfortable with independent travel.

Other common world cruise expenses to budget for :

• Laundry  is usually not included and can be expensive on world cruises.
• Wifi  is usually not included and is usually expensive on world cruises.
• Alcohol  is usually not included and can get expensive for those who like to drink.
• Shopping & souvenirs  you may want to pick up some mementos during your grand voyage
• Other cruise expenses : Gambling, spa treatments, or specialty dining may be tempting.

3 Methods to Achieve an Inexpensive World Cruise

There are three main ways to consider when attempting to score a cheap world cruise, with approximate starting prices shown, per person, based on double occupancy:

• Find a low-cost world cruise : ~$25,000/cruise, ~$170 per day
• Consider a residential world cruise : ~$40,000/year, ~$110 per day
• Combine multiple one-way cruises to form a grand voyage : ~$19,000/year, ~$60 per day

Option 1: Find a Low-Cost World Cruise

While a Regent world cruise would cost a couple more than $200,000, thankful there are usually a few cheap world cruises each year, with prices under $20,000 per person. As of 2023, budget-friendly cruises start at about $15,000 per person for a 3-4 month world cruise. Again, understand that is just a base price.

Those interested in booking the cheapest world cruise available must budget at least an additional $5,000 per person for expenses such as gratuities, visas, laundry, and exploring ashore on your own. A bare minimum of $20,000 per person would be needed for the absolute cheapest world cruise.

That’s $40,000 for the cabin for a couple, which breaks down to about $10,000 per month. But prospective world cruisers must understand that is for an inside cabin, meaning no outside light in your stateroom for the duration of the world cruise. Those desiring luxuries like a balcony stateroom, wifi, or alcohol, will inevitably need to spend more or try to score perks like a free cruise balcony upgrade .

Pros of a low-cost world cruise:

• Easiest and most convenient to plan: one world cruise in a single booking
• Shortest time commitment: starting at 99 days
• Low-ish cost meets convenience: Book a cabin for less than $30k

Cons of a low-cost world cruise:

• Ship may be less desirable or a cruise line you’re unfamiliar with (although usually still a pleasant experience)
• Itinerary: routes may be less desirable, with infrequent stops and many sea days
• High per-day costs: highest among these three methods
• To maintain low costs, you’ll need to forgo or minimize extras and luxuries

Despite the drawbacks, low-cost world cruises can be a bargain and absolutely should be considered. Before booking such a lengthy journey, just ensure you’ll be comfortable with the ship and the cabin you’re considering. Review the itinerary closely. Make sure it goes to locations that are desirable to you. Also, look at the total number of sea days, relative to the entire cruise.

If that all checks out, scoring a low-cost world cruise can be an excellent way to cruise around the world for cheap.

Cheapest World Cruises You Can Book for 2024-2025 World Cruises

As of June 2023, here are three of the least expensive world cruises you can book right now :

• Embarkation Location : Southampton, England
• Dates : January 6, 2024, and again on January 3, 2025
• Length : 99 nights
• Ship : P&O is a British cruise line catering to British passengers. The Arcadia is a 4-star cruise ship, 935 ft in length, built in 2005, with 952 cabins.
• Itinerary : This world cruise itinerary makes a complete westbound circumnavigation around the world, going from the UK to North America, through the Panama Canal, across the Pacific to Australia, up to Asia, and through the Suez Canal to ultimately return to England.
• Sea days : Two-thirds of this itinerary are at sea: 66 sea days and 33 days in port.
• Base starting price per person, interior : $11,734
• Total stateroom price : $23,417
• Price per night : $237 ($120 pp)
• More info : P&O website . Note that outside UK, you may need to call a travel agent to book.
• Embarkation Locations : Civitavecchia (Rome), Genoa, Marseille, or Barcelona
• Dates : January 4, 2025 – April 30, 2025
• Length : 116 nights
• Ship : The MSC Magnifica is a 3.5-star cruise ship, 964 ft in length, launched in 2010, and has 1,259 cabins.
• Itinerary : This world cruise itinerary makes a complete westbound circumnavigation around the world, voyaging from Europe around South America, then to Australia, Asia, and through the Suez Canal (and Egypt), before returning to Europe.
• Sea days : Good split of sea/port days, about half of the itinerary is sea days: 59 sea days and 57 port days.
• Base starting price per person, interior : $15,199
• Total stateroom price, including taxes : $31,358 + gratuities (~$3,000) = $34,358
• Price per night : $296 ($148 pp)
• Check up-to-date pricing & reserve : Book Magnifica World Cruise here on CruiseDirect
• Embarkation Locations : New York City (Alternatively, departs Southampton Jan 11)
• Dates : January 4, 2024 – May 5, 2024
• Length : 123 nights
• Ship : Queen Mary 2 is a 5-star luxury ocean liner, one of the most notable ships of its kind. The 1,132-ft ship was launched in 2003 and has 1,360 cabins.
• Itinerary : This world cruise itinerary is not entirely around the world, as the route goes from NYC to UK, then around Africa, over to Australia, up to Asia, and comes back through the Suez Canal to briefly hit Europe before returning to NYC.
• Sea days : Over two-thirds of this itinerary are at sea: 83 sea days and 40 days in port.
• Base starting price per person, interior : $16,599.00
• Total stateroom price, including taxes : $35,907.06 + gratuities ($3,567) = $39,474.06
• Price per night : $320 ($160 pp)
• Check up-to-date pricing & reserve : Book Queen Mary World Cruise on CruiseDirect

Of these three most inexpensive world cruises, which is best ? This is a matter of preference, of course.

If you’re already in (or near) the UK and you’re simply looking for the cheapest world cruise that truly circumnavigates the globe, the P&O Acadia world cruise does just that. But prospective passengers must understand the cruise is geared towards British preferences and it has a rushed itinerary around the world in 99 days, most of that time at sea.

Meanwhile, we suggest the MSC Magnifica for having the best itinerary of any inexpensive world cruise. It’s truly a remarkable route with many interesting stops. Yet MSC receives mixed reviews on its 3-star ships. Although the onboard experience should be just fine for many travelers, choose the Magnifica world cruise for the great ports and itinerary, rather than for the ship.

Conversely, we recommend choosing the Cunard Queen Mary 2 for the incredible ship , rather than for the itinerary. The Queen Mary 2 is the lowest-priced world cruise you can take on a true ocean liner with the opulence of a 5-star ship. That said, prospective passengers will need to be okay with the fact this journey doesn’t completely circumnavigate the globe and is filled with far more sea days than port days.

For a few more options of the cheapest world cruises you can book right now, here are a few more that are priced under $20,000 per person :

• Crown Princess : departs Sydney on June 4, 2025, 5-star, 113 days, 66 days at sea (58%), $34,486 for cabin + gratuities = $38,102 total ($168 pp/pd), more info .
• Island Princess : departs from Fort Lauderdale or LA, January 2024, 4.5-star, 111 days, 61 days at sea (54%), $38,083 for cabin + gratuities = $41,635 total ($188 pp/pd), more info .

Booking Tips to Get the Best Priced World Cruise

Book interior : If wanting the cheapest world cruise, be sure to book an interior cabin . But also be sure to compare the price difference between outside and veranda staterooms. Often times it’s negligibly higher and can be well worth having a window or balcony on such a lengthy voyage.

Book early : World cruises typically go on sale 2-3 years before their sale dates and are often announced in January. Booking these cruises shortly after they go on sale not only ensures your cabin, this early bird booking strategy can often lock in the lowest rates.

Or book last minute : Conversely, if a world cruise happens to have an excess of empty cabins within the months before it’s set to sail, it’s possible for fares to drop to attract prospective passengers. So this can be a consideration for flexible travelers looking to score a cheap world cruise. But be careful and don’t rely on this. It is more likely that world cruise prices will rise or even sell out entirely, closer to the embarkation date.

Book non-refundable fares : Just like booking last minute, booking non-refundable fares is another risky method that will ultimately help to secure the lowest possible price for a world cruise. To mitigate this risk, you can consider booking a non-refundable fare with travel insurance that offers refunds in certain unforeseen circumstances.

Option 2: Live on a Residential World Cruise Ship

For those with a desire to pursue a world cruise beyond their typical length of 4-6 months, living on a residential cruise ship can be a good consideration. While you may have to pay more upfront, the per-day cost on a residential ship can be even less than the cheapest world cruise.

Residential ships start at about $37,000 per person, per year, which includes most of the same amenities as regular cruise ships (meals, entertainment, etc.), plus extras such as wifi and laundry. So additional expenses can be minimized to adventures pursued in port.

Affordable residential ships can offer great value overall, particularly when calculating the per-day cost. If you limit spending ashore to no more than $100 per week, you could reasonably pursue a world cruise on a residential ship for about $42,000 per person per year, or $84,000 per couple per year. That works out to about $7,000 per month for the cabin.

So it’s still not entirely cheap, but this works out to a less expensive rate than the prior method discussed, booking the lowest cost world cruise. So a residential ship is a great option to consider using for a world cruise for those that have the time and want to go all in on the experience.

Pros of taking a residential ship world cruise:

• Itineraries & Ports: These ships tend to have excellent itineraries and stay in ports longer.
• Vast Experience: See more of the world, visiting many countries.
• Community: Living on a residential ship allows you to form a community with fellow residents.
• Convenience meets cost: Least expensive turn-key world cruise on a per-day basis.

Cons of taking a residential ship world cruise:

• Committing to live for multiple years on a cruise ship
• While per-day costs can be quite reasonable, the upfront cost commitment may be prohibitive
• Limited options: this is a new and untested concept with very few ships/companies to choose

The least expensive world cruise residence we’ve found is Life at Sea Cruises . They require a three-year commitment. Their itinerary over the three years is incredible, spanning 135 countries and all seven continents, with frequent ports and overnight stops. This new residential ship experience begins in November 2023 from Istanbul, Turkey.

While rates are said to start at $33k per year, at last look the cheapest interior cabins still available were listed at $37,398/year, per person. That’s a grand total cost of $224,388 for the cabin for all three years, based on double occupancy. All the details can be found at lifeatseacruises.com .

Option 3: Combine Multiple One-Way Cruises to Form Your Own World Cruise

This is the absolute cheapest way to cruise around the world. This is the method we created to achieve our dream of an affordable world cruise. In its most basic explanation, this method involves combining a series of one-way cruises to form a cheap world cruise route around the world. But it’s not quite that easy to pull off.

It takes careful planning, knowing how/when to book, honing independent travel skills, and taking advantage of repositioning cruises . We’ll show you how to do all of this.

Pros of combining cruises to create a world cruise:

• Cost: It’s truly the least expensive way to form a cheap world cruise
• Variety: You get to experience different ships and cruise lines
• More time ashore: In between cruising segments, you can enjoy more time exploring on land

Cons of combining cruises to create a world cruise:

• Complexity: It takes a tremendous amount of planning
• Limited Schedule: One-way cruises are seasonal and rare, limiting options
• Itinerary gaps: Additional forms of travel and (potentially lengthy) stays on land are required
• Travel skills: Strong independent travel skills are needed

Luxury on a Budget: How to Form a Cheap World Cruise

Our secret weapon to accomplishing a cheap world cruise would be to carefully utilize a series of repositioning cruises .

During six years of traveling around the world, we’ve regularly used repositioning cruises as a cost-effective means of transportation to get from one continent to another. This is when cruise lines reposition their fleets using one-way voyages in the spring and fall when the seasons change.

For example, during the fall many cruises will be repositioned from the Mediterranean to Florida and the Caribbean. Rather than floating an empty ship across the ocean, cruises are instead loaded with entertainment and interesting itineraries.

Never heard of these one-way seasonal voyages and want to learn more? Then be sure to read our Ultimate Guide to Repositioning Cruises: Everything You Need to Know .

These lengthy voyages with many sea days typically aren’t popular, so prices often get slashed in attempts to fill the ships with paying passengers. When that happens, we take advantage of astonishingly low rates and set sail across the ocean in luxury. (Example: This 4.5* Royal Caribbean Enchantment of the Seas repositioning cruise , is sailing from Barcelona to Florida on Nov 13, 2023, and is currently priced at $420 per person, for the two-week cruise across the Atlantic.)

Rather than sitting in a cramped coach seat on an overnight flight, you can instead get to enjoy two weeks of island hopping, fine dining, entertainment, and relaxing in a comfy stateroom. Such repositioning cruises have given us a way to afford luxury that is often otherwise unattainable to our travel budget ways. The crazy thing is that these repositioning cruises are often priced less than a flight between two continents.

Over the years, we’ve used repositioning cruises to cross the Atlantic numerous times, in addition to crossing the Pacific, crossing the Indian Ocean, voyaging between Asia and Europe (Suez Canal), from Europe to South Africa, and between North and South America (Panama Canal). Repositioning cruises can be a wonderful and inexpensive way to travel the world, for those who have the time.

Armed with a keen awareness of these different repositioning cruise routes and the corresponding seasonalities, it’s possible to stitch together a series of repositioning cruises in a grand attempt to form a cheap world cruise.

Doing so admittedly takes a great degree of planning, a bit of gambling on the ever-changing rate fluctuations, and a little luck to ultimately form a patchwork of a cheap world cruise.

Using this method will not allow for a one sole world cruise residing on a single ship entirely around the world for a 100+ day voyage. Rather, to catch these rare one-way cruise deals, it would require carefully plotted timing, while also traveling overland in between the oceanic cruise segments.

These overland travel segments can be a welcomed concession to make in order to achieve the financial feat of a cheap luxury cruise entirely around the world. Personally, we’ve found it to be nice to break apart all this time at sea with some extended adventures on land.

In summary, our method involves two components that are absolutely critical to taking a cheap world cruise:

• Understanding repositioning cruise routes and timing
• Having the time and desire to spend time on land in between repositioning cruises

We’ll break all that down.

Proof of Concept: Our Cheap Around the World Cruise

While we largely wanted to embark on this journey for our personal travel desires, we also to demonstrate to others that a cheap world cruise can be achieved.

Budget travel in low-cost destinations can be fairly easy to pull off. But our goal for this grand trip around the world was to achieve some level of luxury on a budget while also visiting higher-cost countries that we’d been avoiding.

To up the ante and prove this concept, we decided to plan our cheap world cruise route through some of the most expensive countries to travel to. Lingering in budget travel havens like Thailand and Mexico would be far too easy of a strategy to keep travel costs low.

Instead, our cheap around-the-world cruise route would wind through all three of the world’s top 3 most expensive countries to visit: Switzerland, the United Kingdom, and France (source: BusinessInsider: Most Expensive Countries to Visit ). The journey would further include prolonged stays throughout notorious budget-busting nations like Japan, Canada, and Italy.

We further raised the stakes by visiting many of the world’s most expensive cities , including Singapore (#1), Hong Kong (#4), Seoul (#6), Tokyo (#11), Rome, London, and Beijing. (source:  Economist Worldwide Cost of Living survey )

We would attempt to carry out this seemingly expensive feat by staying in mostly nice hotels and renting out entire homes, which would even include our very own Italian villa on the Mediterranean. Throughout the voyage, we would partake in quintessential high-end culinary experiences from eating Kobe beef in Japan to indulging in fondue in the Swiss Alps, and even some Michelin-stared restaurants in between.

We would go on to have such costly experiences as downhill skiing across South Korea’s Olympic mountains, visiting an international Disney theme park, and sipping on bubbly while touring France’s Champagne region.

✅ We did it all.

But to top it all off, our primary form of transportation to get to all these pricey places in the world: luxury cruise ships !

We spent a total of 2½ months cruising entirely around the world on luxury cruises , getting wined and dined each night before taking in an awesome show, retreating to our lavish stateroom, and then being transported to the next exotic port for another day full of adventure on land.

And we accomplished this all on a fairly low budget.

For those with champagne tastes on a beer budget , this is how a cheap world cruise is possible.

Our Cheap World Cruise Itinerary & Travel Stats:

Our inexpensive world cruise journey began in somewhat of an unlikely location of Halifax, Canada . This city in Atlantic Canada is a popular cruise port but is rarely (if ever) used as an embarkation point. Yet while spending a summer exploring the Canadian Maritimes, Halifax became our embarkation point to begin this around-the-world journey without flights.

There are arguably better places to begin a pieced-together world cruise. Yet the best place to begin any around-the-world adventure is from wherever you are right now ! And Halifax, Nova Scotia, was where we were when we began concocting this crazy idea.

Part of the reason we spent so much time in Canada was because it acted as a staging ground for us to meticulously plan and plot this complex trip, cruising around the world for so cheap. So we set off from Halifax to travel overland to the other side of Canada, reaching Vancouver, where the cruising portion of our journey would begin.

Our cheap world cruise itinerary :

🚗🚆 Rental cars & train ( Amtrak Empire Builder ): Halifax to Vancouver 🛳️ Cruise 1 : Holland America Volendam – Vancouver, Canada to Japan 🚅 Mostly trains Across Japan, ⛴️ ferry to Korea + more trains, ⛴️ ferry to China + more trains to Hong Kong 🛳️ Cruise 2 : Celebrity Millennium – Hong Kong to Singapore 🛳️ Cruise 3 : Costa Victoria – Singapore to Italy 🚆 Mixed transport: Italy to England 🛳️ Cruise 4 : Norwegian Bliss – England to NYC (Stopping in Halifax to complete our circumnavigation)

Our cheap world cruise journey ultimately took us to:

• 22 countries ,
• visiting 35 UNESCO World Heritage Sites,
• sleeping in 74 beds , and
• through over 100 different cities in the world!

The trip from Halifax completely around the globe and back took exactly 300 days , utilizing four repositioning cruises in combination with some overland travels and stays in between the cruises. This effectively formed a world cruise on a budget! We traveled entirely around the world without flights.

Yet much more remarkable than the travel route or a list of countries visited was the vast amount of amazing travel experiences this grand adventure allowed. After all, the low price isn’t the only benefit of piecing together a cheap world cruise. You also have more time to experience so many international wonders!

Highlights during the 10-month trip around the world included :

🇨🇦 Tidal Bore Rafting Across the Most Extreme Tides in the World 🇨🇦 Hiking among Moose in the Canadian Wilderness 🇨🇦 Lobstering in Prince Edward Island 🇺🇸 Taking the Amtrak Empire Builder Across the US 🇺🇸 Cruising through Alaska’s Glacier Bay National Park 🇯🇵 Exploring Japan’s Most Atmospheric Ancient Temples 🇯🇵 Hiking Japan’s Ancient Komono Kodo Pilgrimage Route 🇯🇵 Eating Everything in Japan 🇰🇷 Skiing on Downhill Olympic Ski Runs in South Korea 🇰🇷 Attending a local Ice Fishing Festival (and actually catching!) 🇰🇷 Venturing to the DMZ at the North Korean Border  🇰🇵 🇨🇳 Exploring the Great Wall of China without any crowds 🇨🇳 Taking a River Cruise Down the Yangtze 🇨🇳 Hiking Across China’s Fabled Avatar Mountains 🇻🇳 Floating on a Junk Boat Through Vietnam’s Ha Long Bay 🇹🇭 Relaxing on a Tropical Thai Beach 🇮🇳 Experiencing the Wonderful Culture Shock that Incredible India Delivers 🇴🇲 Roaming around the Desert in Oman 🇪🇬 Cruising Through the Suez Canal 🇮🇹 Hiking from Seaside Village to Village in Cinque Terre 🇮🇹 Discovering Just How Delicious Fresh Pasta in Italy Is 🇨🇭 Trekking the Swiss Alps 🇫🇷 Drinking Champagne  within France’s Champagne Region 🇧🇪 Cycling to a Remote Belgian Monastery to Seek the World’s Best Beer 🇬🇧 Pub Crawling around London ‘s River Thames on a Sunny Day 🌊 Taking the Inaugural Cruise on the Brand New Norwegian Bliss to Complete Our Journey

^Phew and that’s just the highlight reel. It was truly a trip of a lifetime.

Detailing the Total Costs of Forming a Cheap World Cruise

Throughout the next several sections we’re going into the deep details to break down the cost of this entire trip around the world, connecting four cruises to travel entirely around the world. This trip budget includes the four cruises in addition to detailing the expenses of our stints traveling overland across the world’s most expensive nations.

We are doing this because we want to show exactly how it is possible to actually afford a trip of this caliber .

Our travel expenses during the ten-month journey can be grouped into four large categories of costs :

• Accommodation
• Eating & Drinking
• Entertainment
• The cruises themselves

Before drilling down into our detailed financial data , it’s worthwhile to take a second to understand some accounting challenges we faced when tracking our travel expenses.

Many expenses are tricky to categorize because many of these groupings often overlap. For example, we regularly seek out accommodation that includes breakfast, as we’re willing to pay a bit more for that. In such instances, we only allocated the expense to “accommodation,” even though the price we paid for the hotel included breakfasts. As a result, hotel expenses are a bit overinflated since cheaper places were available that didn’t include meals.

We often used taxis and public transport for sightseeing, which could logically be attributed to transportation. Yet given that our intention of using such transport was to pursue activities, local transportation was instead allocated as entertainment. There are many more blurred lines like these aforementioned examples, but you get the point.

Perhaps our biggest accounting challenge is with the cruises themselves. Their costs are all-inclusive of our transportation, dining, onboard entertainment, and accommodation. This is what makes cruises such great value! But it also makes it near impossible to categorize. As such, we’ve separated cruising expenses entirely from our land-based travels in between.

This preface is simply to let you know that these allocations may not be a perfect science, but we made a solid effort to categorize expenses the best we could to give you a glimpse into our personal finances of this cheap world cruise route we’ve attempted to achieve.

So let’s take a look!

Minimizing Eating & Drinking Costs on a Cheap World Cruise

Part of the value of taking a world cruise is the ability to indulge in the wonderful dining, which is included in the cost of your world cruise fare. While on the ship, you don’t need to spend a dime on food expenses.

During this cheap world cruise, we indulged in the included fine dining every day while sailing across the world’s oceans. The four-course dinners are an absolute treat that can otherwise be out of reach for budget travelers, with decadent meals such as filet mignon, lobster, chateaubriand, and beef wellington.

Despite the inclusive nature of dining during a world cruise, there are three potential food & beverage costs that can inflate any world cruise budget :

• Specialty dining
• Alcoholic beverages, sodas, and other specialty drinks
• Local food & beverages when exploring ashore

💡 Tip: Avoid Specialty Dining to Keep World Cruise Costs Low

Those trying to pursue a world cruise on a budget can save by simply avoiding specialty dining, which comes with an upcharge. These shipboard restaurants can easily be avoided. Many people love specialty dining, particularly so on lengthy cruises because returning to the main dining room every night may become monotonous.

There’s no doubt that many of these specialty restaurants are great and some would argue they’re absolutely worth the splurge. Personally, we never find specialty dining experiences to be worth the upcharge, given the excellent meals available for free in the main dining rooms.

Even if returning to the main same dining room each evening, the chefs develop a brand new menu for each night of the cruise. So there’s always something new and interesting to look forward to. For a change of scenery, have a quick and informal meal in the buffet or one of the ship’s other complimentary dining venues.

If you have the extra cash to enjoy the specialty restaurants, go for it! But those pursuing a cheap world cruise should avoid it.

💡 Tip: Do Spend Money to Eat Ashore during a World Cruise

With limited time on land, make the most of the experience by diving into the local cuisine. Although it will certainly add to your world cruise budget, we find it to be very worthwhile for the negligible spending to eat local when on land .

During days in port, we always roam around to try the local cuisine. In Vietnam, we devoured banh mi and pho. In Thailand, we slurped up as much tom yum and pad thai as possible. We chowed on kottu in Sri Lanka, followed by curries in India. We couldn’t possibly stop into a Greece port without stuffing our faces with a traditional Greek salad.

Eating locally is a wonderful way to experience a country’s culture, contribute directly to the local economy, and do so at reasonable costs. Depending on the country, there are many wonderful dining experiences to be had for cheap.

You can see this separate post that details our top nine favorite meals during our cruise around the world from our world cruise journey. And they were all under $25!

💡 Tips: Use These Hacks to Drink during a Cheap World Cruise

Alcoholic beverages are typically not included during a world cruise. Drinks on these ships are very expensive. For example, a beer typically costs anywhere from $6-$8 and cocktails are around $10 and up. It’s budget-busting prices for anyone who likes to kick back a few. (We do.)

Alcohol costs can add up quickly during a world cruise. Consider if a couple had two glasses of $9 wine each night with dinner. That seemingly minor indulgence would ultimately add about $2,500 to your cruises! ($9 per glass x 2 glasses x 2 people x 100 days = $2,520)

Due to high costs, we have to recommend having great restraint from visiting the bars on a cruise ship.  But that doesn’t mean we’re suggesting not to drink during a world cruise. Instead, use some clever hacks and tips to stretch your alcohol budget and even score free drinks while cruising around the world.

For example, most cruises allow you to bring aboard your own wine . So researched the rules in advance and bring the maximum allowance. Attend the Captain’s Toast for more free cocktails. Visit the duty free liquor store during free sampling events. There are lot of tactics to get free booze during a world cruise.

Booking cruises during promotions often give perks such as wine or champagne gifted to your room once onboard. Occasionally, you may even be lucky enough to score a cruise promotion that includes a beverage package. Having a loyalty status is another solid way to get free cocktail hours or more gifted wine.

On one of our world cruise segments, we brought our own wine, got gifted wine from a promo, received gifted wine from loyalty, then we further won bottles of champagne by participating in a shipboard trivia contest. We ultimately had more alcohol in our stateroom than we knew what to do with !

Just as we suggest eating locally on port days, we also recommend drinkers to drink locally while docked. Seek out local breweries or whatever interesting libations are native to the country you’re passing through. And although security won’t let you bring liquor back to your world cruise stateroom, we’ve often found security to be lax about bringing a few cans of beer back onto the ship, even though it was technically not allowed.

To further enjoy some beverages while on the ship, take advantage of any drink promos being offered.

And although it can be fun to party hard during a 7-day cruise, you may find a lengthy world cruise can be more relaxed, with less temptation to drink. We would purposely give our livers some much-needed breaks during these long voyages since booze was often a costly commodity.

Those aforementioned tips just scratch the surface of our cheap cruise drinking strategies. For even more hacks to drink for cheap on a world cruise, be sure to read our comprehensive article:

• 25 Best Tips to Get Cheap and Free Alcohol on a Cruise

💵 Cost Breakdown: Total Food & Beverage Expenses during World Cruise Segments

During the four cruises we used to form our cheap world cruise, we managed to keep our food & beverage budget under $500. Between eating & drinking in ports and some very minimal bar bills on the ships, our eating & drinking expenses totaled: $238 per person during the 2½ months aboard the cruises. That’s about $3.45 per cruise day, per person. 

We were very content with this amount

💵 Cost Breakdown: Eating & Drinking Costs When Traveling in Between Cruises

We spent very minimally on food and drink while cruising, given the included dining and our thrifty tricks to drink cheaply onboard.

But during our land-based travels in between cruise segments, we went from gorging ourselves with endless fresh sushi in Japan to sipping French champagne, all in a matter of months. That can’t be cheap!

Well, it wasn’t entirely cheap. Overall, we spent an average of $21.89, per person, per day on eating and drinking around the world , during the days we traveled overland in between cruises. This cost may be slightly overinflated, as it also includes all groceries such as medicine, toiletries, and other knick-knacks we picked up along the way.

This is an area of our budget that could easily be much less for frugal travelers. But we really enjoy eating and drinking!

Given the quality of food we sought out and our penchant for tipping back a few pints, we’re content with our budget here.

Cheap World Cruise Accommodation Costs & Strategies

We spent 2½ months sleeping in luxury on the cruises themselves. It was heavenly waking up to the lapping of rolling swells and the sweet ocean breeze , as we often scheduled a morning pot of coffee to be delivered to our stateroom upon waking up.

Of course, this is included in the cost of the four cruises we used to travel entirely around the world.

💡 Tip: Cruises with Overnight Ports Contain Excellent Value

Overnight port calls are a nice perk that can be found on some world cruises and other one-way voyages. When ships do stay in port overnight, not only does it give you a chance to explore more and experience the nightlife, but the ship essentially acts as a floating hotel in a prime location .

Our overnight port calls were fantastic cost savings, with stops included both Singapore and Hong Kong. These are two of the most expensive cities in the world! Decent low-end budget accommodation starts at about $100 per night, while hotels easily cost well into the hundreds of dollars. Yet our accommodation cost while in Singapore and Hong Kong was fully covered on the Celebrity Millennium, as it docked in ideal waterfront locations right within these two cities.

Our nightly cost in these most expensive world cities was $59.50 per person for five-star accommodation , which included breakfast, lunch, and dinner!

💵 Cost Breakdown: Accommodation in Between World Cruise Segments

While piecing together one-way cruises to form a cheap world cruise, you’ll be challenged with finding good value accommodation in between cruise segments. Unless booking a true world cruise, you’ll inevitably need to stay on land for considerable amounts of time in various locations around the world.

During the cheap world cruise we strung together, we spent more time on land than we did on cruises. In doing so, our ability to find inexpensive accommodation was thoroughly tested in expensive destinations like Tokyo, Seoul, Beijing, and throughout high-priced countries such as Canada, Italy, and France.

During all this time paying for accommodation on land, we spent an average of $39.26 per night ($19.63 per person) while traveling through the most expensive countries in the world. Costs shown here are the total costs paid, including any taxes and cleaning fees.

At a nightly rate of less than $20 per person , we were quite happy with this rate, particularly considering the expensive destinations we were traveling across, for such prolonged periods of time, and frequently in nice 3 & 4-⭐ hotels.

💡 Tip: Be Flexible and Open to All Types of Accommodation

A key strategy for keeping accommodation costs low is to be flexible. Don’t completely ignore budget accommodation when there is a significant difference in price. Given the theme of this trip, we attempted to stay in mostly nicer establishments. But that wasn’t always the case.

We readily made occasional concessions to stay at budget hotels and private room Airbnbs whenever passing through high-cost locations, or when it just made sense financially.

In between the four cruises we used to travel around the world, we stayed in six countries for a week or longer and this is our average nightly costs:

There are different strategies to pursue good value accommodation throughout the world, but it depends on the country, as accommodation prices vary from one region to the next. For example, when in China during the off-season, we enjoyed 4-star hotels for a low cost. But that would have cost us a fortune along the Italian Riviera, where we instead found exceptional value at a beautiful seaside vacation rental (Airbnb).

Meanwhile, in Japan, the best accommodation bargains were at business hotels that had so many nice amenities we could utilize. Having a rental car throughout France afforded us the opportunity to travel to lesser-visited destinations and stay outside of pricy city centers. Perhaps most interestingly, we found bargain rates at Korea’s “love motels,” which turned out to be rather nice.

The key to finding the best accommodation deals is to be flexible with the type of places you stay at. What may be an excellent value in one country, may not be in the next. Cast a wide net, be creative, and find some great places to stay at a low cost!

World Cruise Costs for Excursion and Activities

Cruising and independent travel are like oil and water. They usually don’t mix together. Yet we enjoy both forms of travel and love to combine the two! Traveling independently was an absolutely critical strategy for keeping our world cruise costs low.

💡 Tip: Forgo Shore Excursions to Explore on Your Own

Shore excursions can be a very expensive proposition for a world cruise, as this is yet another expense that can easily snowball during lengthy voyages. On a weeklong cruise, using a few shore excursions might only add a couple hundred dollars to your portfolio. But using shore excursion at every port on a world cruise will potentially add tens of thousands of dollars to your final bill – yikes!

For budget travelers like us, shore excursions offered by the cruise line are entirely cost-prohibitive. Therefore a critical component to keeping any world cruise within a reasonable budget is to simply step off the ship and explore on your own .

Shore excursions can be an extremely convenient and efficient way to explore ashore, but they’re not cost-efficient.

For those who are comfortable traveling independently, exploring on your own comes easy and saves loads. A little advanced research and planning goes a long way. Look up transportation logistics and things to do nearby wherever the ship is docked. Or find local tour operators and deal directly with them. Or after arriving, negotiate with a taxi driver to take a taxi tour of the city.

Also, be sure to leave yourself some room for error to get back to the ship with plenty of time. Cruises do not wait for late passengers and world cruises are no exception. Minimize this risk by being back in the direct vicinity of your ship with an hour to spare, just in case. If there are any attractions or activities near the ship you wanted to visit, do so at the end so you’ll have quick access to return to the ship.

With over 30 port calls during the four cruises we used to travel around the world, we never once took a single tour that was purchased from the cruise ship. This ultimately saved thousands of dollars (likely tens of thousands) by exploring on our own throughout our cheap world cruise.

For example, when we docked in Juneau, Alaska, most glacier tours were well into the several hundred dollars per person. Instead, we hopped on a $2 public bus, which took us directly to the impressive Mendenhall Glacier.

When we arrived in Ha Long Bay, Vietnam, most cruise passengers got on a bus to take them on a boat tour around these most scenic islands, for hundreds of dollars. Instead, we hopped on the back of a scooter taxi, which took us to a boat and a $17 half-day tour of the same famous islands that our fellow cruise passengers were splashing the cash to see.

Those are just two small examples, but we used these same independent travel tactics in every single port we visited. In many of the ports we pulled into, like Heraklion, Greece, or Kushiro, Japan; the ship docked only steps away from the city center. So we could just walk off the ship and easily sightsee on our own.

⚠️ Don’t Pay for Pricey Taxis during a World Cruise

Given the often exotic itineraries of world cruises, ships will occasionally dock at industrial ports with nothing to walk to. This presents logistical challenges, requiring transportation. These situations often bring out aggressive taxi drivers ready to take advantage of cruise passengers. Unknowing cruisers often pay extremely inflated costs to these money-hungry taxi drivers.

It wouldn’t be entirely uncommon for taxi drivers to ask the equivalent of $100 USD to drive a few miles, looking to take advantage of cruise passengers that don’t have a firm grasp on the exchange rates. Some taxi drivers wouldn’t budge in negotiations, knowing they would be able to get this inflated rate from the next group of cruisers who walked by. It’s all a frustrating situation that we regularly faced while walking into ports from a cruise ship.

Use these strategies to avoid overpriced taxis :

• Use public transportation if available.
• Use rideshare apps, like Uber, available in the majority of ports, and keeps drivers honest.
• Walk away from the cruise port, then catch a taxi.

💵 Cost of World Cruise Shore Excursions: on Your Own

In total, we spent $303 per person during all of our DIY shore  excursions , including all local transport and activity costs. That comes out to about $10 per person in each port visited.

This is an enormous cost savings when attempting a cheap world cruise. It’s not uncommon for a single shore excursion to be priced at $300 or more. Yet we managed to stretch that same amount across all 30 ports that we docked in.

💵 Cost Breakdown: World Cruise Shipboard Entertainment & Activity

Yet again, one of the nice things about taking a cruise around the world is that all that time on the ship is completely inclusive of activities and entertainment . People sometimes wrongly assume repositioning cruises are boring stripped-down versions of a cruise. But we’ve found that usually to be quite the opposite. Often cruise lines add even more lecturers, activities, and entertainment to repositioning cruises, as they want to keep passengers having fun during the additional sea days.

Broadway-style shows, rock concerts, themed parties, and comedy filled our evenings. While during sea days, we regularly attended enrichment activities like complimentary cooking demonstrations and language classes. It was fun to learn Japanese on the way to Japan!

Some cruise lines, like Norwegian, do have a small fee for certain activities, such as their longest go-cart track at sea ($6). We had to pay it to give that a try. We also paid $25 to see their Prohibition burlesque show, which was actually a good deal because it included 5 craft cocktails during the hilarious performance. Beyond those two minimal expenses, all onboard entertainment was entirely complimentary and included during the 2.5 months of cruising.

So our entire entertainment costs while on all four cruises for 2.5 months was a mere $31 total per person, averaging to $0.44 per day.

💵 Cost Breakdown: Entertainment & Activities in Between World Cruise Segments

Meanwhile, we also incurred entertainment and activity costs while traveling overland too. Local transport, attraction entrance fees, museums, and adventure activities all contributed to this amount.

In places where we traveled slower (Canada), these costs averaged less. In China, when we traveled at a fast pace and incurred some higher expenses like a Yangtze River cruise, expenses averaged more. It was easy to keep costs lower in places like Europe as sightseeing around the historic towns and hiking are free. Our funds were better used on French and Italian cuisine.

After all, many of the best sights and experiences around the world are free!

Maintaining Low Transportation Costs during a Cheap World Cruise

When stringing together a series of one-way cruises to form a cheap world cruise, it’s nearly inevitable to incur some transportation costs in between these cruise segments. It can turn into a big game of planes , trains, and automobiles. But we switch out the planes for cruises!

When piecing together our cheap cruise around the world, we used the following transport methods:

🚆 71 trains , 🚌 52 buses , ⛴️ 11 ferries + 1 river cruise, 🚗 7 rental cars , 🚕 6 long-distance taxis , and 🚢 4 ocean cruise ships carried us around the world for a total of 2½ months !

Of course, navigating all of this foreign transit does take a knack for independent travel. There are useful transit websites and resources that can help, such as Rome2Rio , Seat61 , and even Google Maps .

During our world cruise segments, the lengthiest overland transportation segments included: (1) Tokyo to Hong Kong, (2) Halifax to Vancouver, and (3) Italy to England.

Those keen on avoiding such lengthy overland segments should know that, while rare, additional cruise routes exist to minimize these stretches of overland segments.

Use the following two cruise routes to effectively eliminate the lengthy overland segments we pursued:

• Panama Canal cruises can take you between the US east coast (usually Florida) to the US West Coast (usually California, although occasionally Seattle or Vancouver).
• Infrequent cruises also exist between Tokyo and Singapore.

💵 Cost Breakdown: Transportation to Connect World Cruise Segments

We spent about $2,275 per person on transportation costs while traveling overland clear across North America, Eastern Asia, and finally from Italy to England. That averages out to about $10 per person, per day during our overland travels.

Our itineraries were almost never the most direct, efficient, or cheapest routes to cross the countries. That would be a boring trip. Instead, we carefully planned our itineraries with major points of interest in mind and often spared no expense to divert there.

Here’s what we spent on transport by country:

We always carefully weighed out costs as a leading factor in choosing our form of transport. Taking the easiest or fastest route was not always the cheapest. Also, taking what would be presumedly a cheap form sometimes would not be the most economical.

For example, we chose one-way rental cars over Canada’s more expensive Via Rail. We then rode the US’s Amtrak Empire Builder for only $146 , traversing the US to Seattle in three days.

We circumvented Japan’s pricey bullet trains using cheaper regional trains, buses, and budget rail passes. South Korea’s compact size made bus and rail travel affordable. China, being vast, required us to use the expensive high-speed rail often, which was worth it for us to cover as much of the country as we could during our time there.

Meanwhile, in Italy, regional rail lines and low-cost buses proved economical. France’s rail strikes necessitated costlier rental cars, with country roads used to avoid pricier toll roads.

A bus to London and train to Southampton concluded our thrifty transport segments, before crossing the Atlantic on our final cheap world cruise segment.

Cost of Flights during a Cheap World Cruise: $0

One awesome aspect of embarking on an around-the-world trip entirely over land and sea is that there are no flight expenses involved. Nothing. Nada. Zilch!

It’s a huge money-saver not having to account for the cost of flights!

Usually, the cost of flights on a trip around the world would total well into the thousands of dollars!

We instead put this nonexistent flight budget towards the cruises, which can often be priced about the same (often less!) than flights going along the same routes. Yet the cruises offer so much more value since they cover meals, accommodation, and so many luxury amenities all while stopping along into the fascinating destinations you get to explore while traveling from one part of the world to the next.

An added bonus was going the entire year of traveling without having to deal with airport security, baggage fees, shrinking seat space, rude passengers, airplane food, and flight delays , among the many other hassles that come with air travel.

Grand Total Costs of Combining Cruises to Form a Cheap World Cruises

Up to this point, we’ve detailed all our cheap world cruise expenses except the cruise segments themselves. The four cruises we took to form our world cruises were indeed relatively large expenses. So let’s get into it.

💵 Cost Breakdown: One-Way Cruises to Form Cheap World Cruise

The cost of these world cruise segments was a greater expense than we had initially anticipated. Cruise rates do fluctuate. Despite our best efforts, the timing of our cruise bookings didn’t always secure the lowest rates. Prior to this around-the-world journey, we’ve taken repositioning cruises for far less than we paid on these four world cruise segments.

After adding in all port charges, taxes, fees and even adding in gratuities, the grand total of our cheap world cruise came out to $81 per person, per day. These cruise days averaged higher than our overland travels, which helps to bring down our entire trip cost average as we’ll get into in a bit.

First, let’s look at how the world cruise costs shook out: $5,574 total pp for all world cruise segments .

Spending over $5,000 per person on cruises may not seem cheap. But this was over the course of 2.5 months of luxury living while being effortlessly transported all around the world. It’s also less than half the cost of even the cheapest world cruise.

Also, consider the cost it would take to fly between all of these locations. It would have likely cost tens of thousands of dollars. Using repositioning cruises to form a cheap world cruise is truly exceptional travel value!

💵 Cost Breakdown: The Grand Total of Entire Cheap World Cruise

Here is the total breakdown by country and by cruise, per person, per day. This includes all of the travel expenses we incurred during this 300-day cheap world cruise. So the cruise costs shown here absorb additional eating, drinking, and entertainment expenses that were incurred onshore during that cruising timeframe.

South Korea was the cheapest due to minimal transport costs, with Canada and Italy following thanks to spread-out transport costs and minimal entertainment expenses. China felt cheap daily but high-speed rail use increased our average costs.

The transpacific cruise was expensive due to heavy port fees, particularly in association with Glacier Bay National Park . Cheaper transpacific alternatives existed but the timing didn’t work for us. The high cost was easily justified by the luxury, having an Alaska cruise on the front end, and a cruise to Japan’s lesser-known ports on the back end.

If anyone really wants to examine our cheap world cruise budget, the table below gives a complete breakdown of every travel expense we incurred over this cheap world cruise journey.

We’re happy with coming in at about $19,000 per person for a luxury trip entirely around the world’s most expensive countries, lasting nearly an entire year!  That averages out to about $1,900 per month or $63 per day.

But the above figures are expenses, as we technically paid less ! Here’s how:

We used just a bit of travel hacking (points) to reduce our spending. We redeemed $382 worth of accommodation using points and travel credits, such as from Hotels.com, SPG, and Priceline. We still accounted for those expenses in all the budgeting we’ve detailed, even though we didn’t actually pay money for them.

Furthermore, we tried to use our Capital One Venture credit card for nearly every expense possible, which earns us 2% cash back that we then used to erase whatever travel expenses we chose. So we racked up enough expenses on that credit card over the course of this trip to erase $639 worth of travel expenses!

This brings our actual out-of-pocket cost to $18,500 per person.

That’s a travel budget of $1,850 per month or just above $60 per day for this around-the-world trip of a lifetime !

It may be worth noting that a few additional expenses were not included in our budget, for example, Christmas/birthday gifts. Healthcare expenses, like a dental check-up in Thailand and our $59/month international phone plan were also omitted. We further didn’t include the cost of running our business (this website), which includes hosting, domain, etc. These regular expenses that have nothing to do with the trip itself were not included in the totals listed above.

Travel Tips: How to Plan a Cheap World Cruise

Now that we’ve shown our finances of how we budget for our cheap world cruise, we want to relay some more tips to get you on your way! If you would like to attempt an unconventional voyage around the world like us, there are a few more details you should know.

Where to Begin Your Cheap World Cruise Journey

As we’ve already mentioned, the best place to start such a voyage is wherever you’re currently located, even if it’s not a port town served by cruise lines. Determine your nearest major cruise port hub and start researching when long-distance cruises depart from there.

Common ports include:

• North America Atlantic ports : Miami, Port Everglades (Fort Lauderdale), Port Canaveral (Orlando area), Tampa, New York City, and more.
• North America Pacific ports : Los Angeles, Seattle, Vancouver
• Asia Ports : Tokyo, Hong Kong, Singapore
• European Ports : Piraeus (Athens), Civitavecchia (Rome), Barcelona, Copenhagen, Southampton, and more.

If you’re reading this from the southern hemisphere , don’t feel left out. It is also possible to begin a cheap world cruise from international ports such as Sydney, Cape Town, Buenos Aires, and Valparaiso (Santiago). Repositioning cruises exist from each of these cities to some of the other aforementioned hubs, where you can then proceed east or westbound above the equator.

How to Book With the Changing Seasons

To catch these repositioning cruise deals to form a cheap world cruise, you have to be keenly aware of when and where cruise lines are shifting their fleet during the changing of the seasons. Here’s where they flow:

Common fall routes :

• Transatlantic: Europe to Eastern US and Caribbean (most common)
• Transatlantic: Europe to South America
• Transpacific: North America to Asia
• Transpacific: North America to Australia and South Pacific
• Europe to Asia (Suez Canal)

Common spring routes :

• Transatlantic: Eastern US to Europe (most common)
• Transatlantic: South America to Europe
• Transpacific: Asia to North America
• Transpacific: Australia or South Pacific to North America
• Asia to Europe (Suez Canal)

While rare, it’s also possible to find rogue cruises that aren’t seasonal . Occasionally a ship will be moved to/from a dry dock location for refurbishments, which can form a non-seasonal repositioning cruise to utilize.

And when brand new ships launch, they don’t necessarily follow the seasonal shifts either. For example, we caught the brand new Norwegian Bliss eastbound across the Atlantic in the late spring, a time when most cruise ships are being repositioned in the opposite direction.

So it’s certainly worth doing thorough research to see what your options are. Or contact an excellent travel agent that specializes in cruises.

By carefully scouring through every potential cheap repositioning cruise option, we even managed to find two cruises lined up in Singapore on the exact same day. So we cruised from Hong Kong to Singapore on the Celebrity Millennium and were able to step right off and move our luggage onto the Costa Victoria for the remaining voyage from Singapore to Italy. It took a bit of planning, but when it finally happened, this was such a beautiful sight!

World Cruise Direction: East-to-West or West-to-East?

Pursuing a cheap around-the-world cruise can be accomplished by piecing together repositioning cruises in either direction. But which way is better?

First, that depends on where you’re starting your voyage and the time of year. For example, if you’re beginning in the US in the Fall, your best options are transpacific repositioning cruises heading west. If you were to begin in the US in the Spring, the likely option would be to begin on a transatlantic from the East Coast and head east.

We took a westward route around the world and find that direction to be ideal. You skip a day jumping the International Date Line while crossing the Pacific, which is interesting. But the beautiful part about a westbound itinerary is the frequent rolling back of the clock, which regularly gives you 25-hour days!

Throughout a westbound world cruise, you’ll have 24 nights in which you get an extra hour of sleep ! That’s a great perk about traveling slowly by sea around the world. You won’t experience jet lag!

Meanwhile, it’s the opposite traveling east, as you lose an hour of sleep during each time zone crossing. Doing these time zone transitions little by little does ease the jet lag effect, but you’ll still feel this loss of sleep when having to change the clocks forward multiple nights in a row.

There’s an old travel expression that we found rings very true: “ East is a beast, west is the best. ”

Planning Tip: Determine Your Asia-Europe Cruise Segment First

In order to form a cheap world cruise, you must rely on three main segments:

• Crossing the Pacific (North America – Asia)
• Crossing the Indian Ocean (Asia – Europe)
• Crossing the Atlantic (Europe – North America)
• Optional: Across America (Panama Canal cruise)

The Atlantic crossing is the easiest to schedule as there are dozens of transatlantic cruises every spring (eastbound) and fall (westbound), plus the occasional outliers in between. Fewer ships make the Pacific crossing, but there are still enough to choose from, usually at least a half dozen or so.

The Asia-Europe cruise segment that is needed is the rarest and most infrequent route. Typically there are only a few of these Asia-Europe cruises throughout the year. Yet it’s a necessary piece of this puzzle. So we suggest working out the feasibility of this Asia-Europe cruise segment first, then letting the other puzzle pieces fall into place.

The most common hub to search to/from is Singapore , although occasional connections exist from Tokyo and Hong Kong too. In addition to repositioning cruises, it’s also possible to join a segment of a world cruise. Also, find one-way cruises that are heading in your general direction. It’s possible the cruise continues onward in a subsequent cruise.

Here’s A Real Itinerary to Form Your Own Cheap World Cruise 2023-2024

To fully demonstrate how you can form your own cheap world cruise, here are some cruise segments that you can book right now for your own cheap world cruise using a westward approach.

Use these cruises segments to form a one-year world cruise, with stops in Tokyo, Singapore, and Europe . We’ve provided two examples for each of the four segments needed to form a cheap world cruise.

The prices reflected below are per person and not including taxes and gratuities unless noted. Also, understand these prices are current as of the last update to this article (June 2023) and have likely changed (possibly lower) by the time you’re reading this. You can click on each link to confirm up-to-date pricing.

Fall 2023: Transpacific World Cruise Segment – Seattle to Tokyo

Each of these are very cheap transpacific cruises that will get you from Seattle to Tokyo at low rates with stops along the way throughout Alaska and Japan:

• Norwegian Jewel, 16 nights, Oct 3-19, Seattle to Tokyo: $799 ($50/night)
• Holland America Westerdam, 13 nights, Oct 1-15, Seattle to Tokyo: $819 ($63/night)

Winter 2023-2024: From Tokyo to Singapore by Cruise or Other Transport

Spend the winter traveling throughout Asia . You can enjoy colder winter climates like we did in Japan, Korea, and China. Or breakaway to warmer climates by catching a cruise or even a series of land transport and ferries to get to Singapore, which you could further use as a gateway to Malaysia and other cheaper destinations around Southeast Asia.

If you prefer to cruise, after spending a month or so in/around Tokyo, consider these one-way cruises from Tokyo to Singapore :

• Diamond Princess, 15 nights, Dec 1-16, Tokyo to Singapore: $1,138 ($76/night)
• Celebrity Millennium, 12 nights, Nov 17-29, Tokyo to Singapore: $1,649 ($137/night)

Spring 2024: Singapore to Europe World Cruise Segment

After spending a few months exploring Asia, begin your cruise from Singapore to Europe in the Spring as things start to heat up.

• Singapore to Dubai, 15 nights, Apr 24-May 9, 2024: $1,903 ($127/night)
• Dubai to Athens, 18 nights, May 9-27, 2024: $2,188 ($122/night)
• Note: although priced relatively high – this is a 5.5-star ship that includes gratuities, a beverage package, wifi, and laundry, so it’s an excellent deal!

Summer 2024: Summer in Europe

After arriving in Greece, enjoy the summer in Europe traveling by rail or take some more cruises!  Head to Eastern Europe to get out of the Shenzhen Zone and to linger in cheaper countries to help keep your budget down. Eventually, make your way to the west where you can catch a final transatlantic back to North America. Popular ports to depart from include Copenhagen, London (Southampton, Dover), and Barcelona.

Fall 2024: Transatlantic World Cruise Segment

Exactly one year later, now cruise across the Atlantic Ocean to complete your trip around the world without flights. There will be several cheap cruises making this journey across the Atlantic in the Fall and prices will likely drop from current rates. At present, there are dozens of cruises making the journey for well under $1k and well under $1,000/night. Here are simply two examples, showing (1) what is currently the cheapest transatlantic and (2) an earlier fall transatlantic cruise.

• Royal Caribbean Explorer of the Seas, Barcelona to Miami, Nov 2-14, 2024: $524 ($44/night)
• Princess Sun (Sphere), Southampton to Fort Lauderdale, Sept 23-Oct 9, 2024: $1,235 ($77/night)

Total Cost of Sample Cheap World Cruise 2023-2024:

If you were to follow the above-suggested itinerary to form a cheap world cruise, you can reasonably spend about $5,000 or so on those cruise segments.

The Asia-Europe segment is the budget-buster of this world cruise equation, at $3k. Typically, there are more economic connections across the Indian Ocean and through the Suez Canal. But prices do fluctuate and there are a handful of other options between Asia and Europe.

By the time you’re reading this, there may already be a far cheaper connection available to book. In 2024-2025 , we expect even more great options all around the world. Yet looking so far ahead, many of those options to build a cheap world cruise have yet to be listed for sale.

More Money-Saving Tips: Form a Cheap World Cruise For Even Less!

There are three areas of our actual travel expenses, where it would be very easy to bring costs down even less. Forming a $50/day cruise around the world isn’t impossible. Here’s how to cut costs even lower than us.

World Cruise for Less: Book Cheaper Cruises

We’ve taken cruises across the Atlantic for as low as $159 per person ($12/day)! More realistically, $500-600 can be a good price to shoot for on a transatlantic. Due to some timing issues, we paid a bit more (~$1K) for our Atlantic crossing on a brand new 5* ship, the Bliss. And it was our high-cost transpacific cruise, on the Volendam, that really rose the budget.

Typically transpacific repositioning cruises are on sale for as low as $600 between Seattle or Vancouver to Japan. Unfortunately, the timing didn’t quite work out for us to grab those deals, as we weren’t able to make it to the Pacific coast in time to take advantage of those low-priced transpacific cruises.

Additionally, we splurged a few hundred dollars extra for two cruises to have a stateroom with a window during these lengthy voyages. If you’re okay with an interior cabin , you can easily shave off even more from the world cruise expenses we’ve shown throughout this post.

World Cruise for Less: Visit Cheaper Countries

We traveled through the most expensive countries in the world and our daily costs reflect that. It would be easy to plan an itinerary through cheaper countries , which would significantly lower costs.

In Asia, Singapore is the common connection for repositioning cruises. From there, it’s a quick ferry ride into Indonesia or a hop across the land border to Malaysia . Both countries are extremely economical to travel through and Malaysia then opens up to Thailand and all of SE Asia to explore cheaply overland, living off daily budgets closer to $20, rather than the $60 per day we averaged when traveling overland.

Meanwhile, in Europe, instead of passing through the budget-busters of France, Switzerland, and UK, there are two other much more economical approaches. Barcelona is a very common hub for repositioning cruises and Spain (along with Portugal) is the most budget-friendly country to travel in Western Europe. So that’s an easy way to drive down costs. Otherwise, the cheap destinations throughout Eastern Europe are another good idea, and you can sometimes find repositioning cruises, to or from Athens.

World Cruise for Less: Travel Slower

We often have a bad habit of fast travel, racing around a country while packing in as much as we can. Traveling at a slower pace allows you to spread out transport costs , secure lower long-term accommodation rates, and simply become attuned to the inner rhythms of a locality in which you’ll gain a better understanding of where the value lies.

“Slowmads” could successfully execute a world cruise itinerary similar to ours at a much lower daily average by simply relaxing the pace of travel. Stay in places for longer periods of time and don’t constantly move from one destination to the next as we often did.

When to Book World Cruise Segments: A Tricky Proposition

Cruise prices regularly fluctuate based on demand, cancelations, promotions, and a variety of other factors. Often waiting until the last minute (within a month or so) can be a smart move to get a rock-bottom deal. It’s a strategy that has proven to work very well for us many times.

In other instances, it turned out to be a bad move. Booking last minute can be risky. Cruises can unexpectedly sell out or increase dramatically in price, even at the last minute. It’s high risk, high reward .

When trying to plot out all these different routes & connections to form a world cruise while prices constantly fluctuate, the planning becomes increasingly complicated.

One wrong move or a sold-out cruise can break apart an entire world cruise itinerary being strung together. There are a lot of moving pieces that form one giant puzzle. And it’s a puzzle you may be working on while simultaneously traveling, which makes assembly all the more difficult.

Tip: Make Multiple Reservations and Cancel

Yet one positive aspect to booking cruises is that if you’re willing to place a deposit of a few hundred dollars, such cruise deposits are usually cancelable and refundable up until about two months or so before the cruise is scheduled to disembark.

Therefore what we do, and recommend, is to make refundable reservations on whatever repositioning cruise fares around the world look attractive at any time. Even though we only took four cruises, we had actually made eight reservations. We ended up canceling four reservations for completely different cruises (similar routes) that we never took. We received full refunds.

It was nice to lock in those rates as contingency plans while keeping an eye on the prices of other potential cruises. We booked our cruise on the Celebrity Millennium from Hong Kong to Singapore over a half-year in advance and locked in a rate of $883 with prepaid gratuities. It was a great deal that only lasted two days before the price for that cruise later shot up to $2,500 and never dropped again. So we certainly held that reservation and were really happy we booked the refundable reservation when we did.

Meanwhile, we had booked a particularly expensive cruise from Singapore to Barcelona that we ultimately canceled because a better deal suddenly emerged.

Tip: Monitor Prices of Your World Cruise Bookings

It can prove very wise to regularly keep an eye on cruise prices and promotions since there can be sudden sales and price changes. When planning our world cruise, we checked the prices every day. Some people check the stock market on a daily basis. I check cruise prices.

There are pay sites that will actually monitor this for you and send you emails. Or find an excellent travel agent, who may offer to do this.

Yet a simple approach is to bookmark the cruise fare pages and make it a 1-minute morning routine to see if rates have changed. I make notes on the bookmarks to remind me of what the cost was and what promotions they were offering, so I can easily recall and compare how rates may have changed.

Above, you can see my bookmarks and the crazy notes that help me keep track of it all. Being the data geek that I am, I also make spreadsheets. It’s admittedly a bit of work to keep track of. But it’s work that can pay off in the form of a cheap world cruise!

Tip: Mitigating the Risk of Last-Minute Bookings for Cheapest Rates

If you don’t have a booking during the month before sailing, this can be extremely risky. If the cruise sells out, you potentially don’t have passage to the next region when forming your own world cruise. However, taking this risk can often yield extremely low last-minute cruise fares. Here’s a booking strategy to mitigate this risk and score an ultra-low fare.

Once the cancelation period rolls around, make your best guestimate as to whether the rates may rise or fall. If there are other cruises embarking on similar routes at similar time frames at similar price points, you may feel comfortable canceling a booking and holding out for a cheap last-minute rate, knowing there are multiple options to watch and consider.

But if there is only a single cruise on a critical route, it’s best to keep the reservation and pay the remaining balance. Don’t risk it.

The most crucial component to employing this cheap world cruise strategy is to ensure you are well aware of the cancelation periods. You need to meticulously know this so you can cancel on time and get a refund.

Best Cruise Lines to Book with When Forming a Cheap World Cruise

People ask us all the time what’s the best cruise line to attempt this patchwork world cruise with.

Our honest answer is: whatever cruise is currently the cheapest !

We’ve sailed on almost every major cruise line now (Royal Caribbean, Holland America, Celebrity, Costa, Pullmantur, Carnival, Norwegian, Princess, MSC, etc.) and have never had a bad cruise. Each cruise line has its own appeal, novelties, strong points, and drawbacks. Any cruise is a great cruise to us if the price is right.

For us, a cruise ship is a comfy form of transport to amazing destinations. We’re easy to please. Although we very much enjoy the amenities that cruises offer, this isn’t the main draw for us. For others, the cruise ship is the destination and the shipboard experience is a huge part of the appeal.

Most people do have strong preferences towards certain cruise lines . We understand that.

There are some lines we’ve personally enjoyed more than others. Celebrity tends to be one of our favorite cruise lines. So if we can utilize a Celebrity ship to form a world cruise, that’s a big bonus for us. Yet if that Celebrity cruise is hundreds (or thousands) of dollars more than another cruise taking a similar route, it’s usually not worth it for us. Whatever the cruise line is, we’re still going to enjoy our time in ports, the decadent meals, and relaxing at sea.

If you’re taking a one-week vacation on a cruise, it can be worth spending more to go with a cruise line that fits you. But if attempting to piece together a cheap world cruise, we advise booking the least expensive segments that fit your itinerary!

Best Sites to Book With

Most cruises will be at similar rates between different booking sites. But there can be some variances. Some cruise booking sites do sometimes offer stronger promotions than one others. So when you’re ready to pull the trigger on a cruise, it’s worth cross-checking across a few different cruise booking sites just to ensure you have the best deal and best promos. Or call a travel agent.

Our favorite site to search (not necessarily book) is  CruisePlum . CruisePlum acts as a comprehensive cruise search engine, with many filters to drill down your search when piecing together a cheap world cruise.

Once you find an attractive price on a cruise to build your world cruise itinerary, then determine where to book your best price and promotion. This may vary slightly from one booking platform to the next, so it can be worthwhile to spend a few minutes comparison shopping.

Hence, we’ve typically found the best price/promos for our world cruises segments using   CrusieDirect . Lately, they’ve even been offering generous Visa gift cards (hundreds of dollars) when booking with them, which we essentially view as cash back.

We also like how CruiseDirect shows the total price, cabin availability, and the ability to complete the entire booking transaction online yourself without the need to speak to an agent over the phone. The search functionality of CruiseDirect isn’t the best, so we don’t use it to search but rather to book.

Cheap World Cruise Tip: Book Guaranteed Cabins

A “guaranteed cabin” is the least expensive room you can book on a cruise. That’s what we book every time. The only downside to booking this way is that you don’t get to choose the exact location on the cruise. Instead, your exact cabin location is assigned to you a week or so before the cruise departs. (We’ve always been fine with our locations.)

On the upside, you have an off-chance of potentially getting an upgrade. You also are guaranteed to be paying the lowest possible rate within the category you book (inside, outside, balcony). In the past, we’ve booked a guaranteed inside cabin and have gotten an elusive upgrade to a balcony stateroom. It does happen.

We weren’t so lucky on any of these four cruises, although we did indeed get a free balcony upgrade on the brand-new Norwegian Bliss, using a different method.

• Further Reading: 10 Secrets to Get a Free Balcony Upgrade

How To Obtain Visas the Cheap Way

During any world cruise, you will likely few different visas to legally enter some countries. Holding a US Passport, we’re fortunate to be able to enter many countries free on arrival. Other countries have a more complicated and bureaucratic approach, which can take some advanced planning to sort out.

One interesting aspect about cruising is that some countries actually waive the required visas and associated fees for cruise passengers as a way to lure cruises to come there. For example, the costs associated with the letter, stamp, and fee to procure a single-entry visa to Vietnam in advance is $100. That fee and the process are waived for cruise passengers. This is yet another way how cruises can really save!

Yet other countries do impose fees on cruise passengers. Sometimes the cruise charges a fair rate for this but other times it is very inflated. So it can be worth inquiring about these fees and determining whether it may be worth it for you to procure your own visas to sustain significant cost savings during your world cruise.

For example, we paid a $32 fee to enter Cambodia, which the cruise handled entirely for us at this fair rate. Meanwhile, a visa was also required for India and the cruise was charging a very inflated rate (hundreds of dollars) to procure. We instead secured the e-visa ourselves electronically for $77. It was still a hefty price to enter the country for only a single day, yet it could have been much more had we not gotten it ourselves.

Visas are always cheaper if you go through the hurdles of obtaining them directly. Just be very careful that you go through the proper channels to procure them correctly.

Bottom line : Research any required visas for any countries being visited. Plan accordingly.

Travel Insurance: A Must-Have for Any World Cruise

Another worthy expense that we strongly urge for any worldly adventurers is travel insurance. If you were to encounter any sort of major disaster along the way, travel insurance will have you covered. Whether a nasty car accident or a violent earthquake, travel insurance can cover your foreign medical expenses and help get you home.

When world cruising, travel insurance can be even more important. Medical services on cruises is notoriously expensive. Visiting a ship doctor for a simple cold can easily be serval hundred, or even thousands, of dollars. Travel insurance can have you covered and reimburse you for such financial burdens.

Unexpected emergencies are our primary reason for having this coverage during a world cruise. But travel insurance has many additional benefits such as rental car insurance, petty theft, minor medical issues that may arise, trip cancelation, missing passports or credit cards, and so much more.

As it relates to cruising, it can be wise to find travel insurance that includes (air) emergency evacuation. If you were to need to be evacuated by helicopter from a cruise ship this would potentially cost hundreds of thousands of dollars that would likely prove financially devastating to anyone that might need such a life-saving service.

It’s best not to book travel insurance with the cruise company directly. Often the rates are very high. It won’t cover any travel in between cruise segments. And if you have any disputes with the cruise company, it’s best to have an independent travel insurance company to help with that fight.

For long-term travel, we use and recommend  World Nomads . They offer a great mix of coverage for the price and include $300k/$500k of emergency evacuation coverage, depending on the plan.

You can’t book a plan for more than 180 days but you can extend or book a new plan mid-trip to cover your entire world cruise. Tip : It’s best to book the longest period possible, as we’ve found that the per-day rate becomes higher, the shorter the coverage length is.

Check World Nomad rates for your trip .

Thankfully during our cheap world cruise, we never had any major incident requiring us to use the travel insurance we purchased, despite being hit by a typhoon in Japan. But we have made claims with World Nomads on previous trips to cover rental car damage, illness, and lost luggage, in which we found the claims process was efficient and fair.

Key Strategies to Pull off a Cheap World Cruise

To keep costs low and actually accomplish a cheap cruise entirely around the world, there are so many critical strategies to success. Here’s a recap of what we found to be the most important to keep in mind:

🚢 Book inexpensive  repositioning cruise deals , rather than pricey world cruises.

🚢 Be comfortable and skilled at independent travel whenever not on the cruise (extremely important). 🚢 Researc h things to do and travel logistics in destinations you’re visiting. 🚢 Use public transportation whenever possible.

🚢 Have a travel partner . Single supplements are usually imposed on solo travelers on cruises.

🚢 Take a digital detox on the cruises, as wifi can be very cost prohibitive. Use Internet on land.

🚢 Don’t run up a high bar bill while onboard the cruises. It’s easy to do, but just as easy to avoid.

🚢 Pack as light as possible, yet for multiple climates. See what we packed here : Ultimate Packing List .

🚢 Take time to research & find low-price accommodation . 🚢 Book far in advance in popular destinations and/or high season. 🚢 Make concessions to stay at budget-friendly places occasionally, when necessary.

🚢 Have fun! This all takes a bit of planning and strategy to organize, which all leads to an adventure of a lifetime, cruising around the world without flights!

Conclusion: Is a Cheap World Cruise Really Possible?

We hope this post has demonstrated that for a mere $60 per day, a world cruise absolutely is a realistic possibility. We find that to be a very cheap way for such a luxurious and effortless way to travel entirely around the world without flights!

If you want some further reading about cruise tips, you can check out these related posts:

• Read: Repositioning Cruises: Your Ultimate Guide & Tips to Know
• Read: 5 Things We Loved & Hated About Our World Cruise
• Read: Top 50 Cruise Hacks to Save Money

And if you’d like to save this post or share it, feel free to pin the image to the right to your Pinterest travel boards or share this Facebook video , below.

We’d also love to hear what you think about our cheap world cruise in the comments and any questions you may have about this crazy idea we lived out over the past year.

Otherwise, bon voyage! 🚢

Publishing note: This article was initially written August 2018 and was updated in June 2023 to reflect cruise industry changes and up-to-date pricing information.

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July 16, 2021 at 11:59 AM

Im a senior citizen from India and am shell shocked and wonderstruck,

THIS WAS ALWAYS ONLY A DREAM./

It will remain so. Can I just ask for some suggestions. and advise.

September 15, 2019 at 11:49 PM

Thanks so much for your indepth article, just amazing. I was actually investigating repositioning cruises when I came across your blog.

You guys are awesome for providing this information and it’s something that I would like to attempt. How do you think a single female traveller may fair? Obviously, things will be a little more expensive as a solo traveller and I’m okay with that. Safety is another issue, but I’ve travelled all over the world, so I’m fairly street smart. But something like what you’ve done, just piqued my adventurous side. I have the time with no limitations….

What you’ve done seems so much more authentic than just jumping on board a “world cruise” and paying c$125K for the privilege. I bet you’ve met some amazing people, had many funny and rewarding experiences that will stay in your memories your entire life. And as they say, the journey itself is the whole point.

I hope I can use your tips & strategies to pull together a trip like this next year.

October 4, 2019 at 12:39 AM

So glad it’s proven interesting and helpful! You’d likely fair just fine as a solo female traveler with street smarts! 🙂 It will indeed be a bit more expensive since most cruises do charge a hefty single supplement fee that’s often at least 50% or higher. Safety will come down to each locale you’re visiting, but most places shouldn’t warrant much concern at all, with modest precautions. We find most places around the world to be quite safe and most all destinations on the cruise itineraries will be too.

Also, we’re currently on an entire new repositioning cruise trip around the world, this time using a few flights. And we’re posting many more tips along the way from this trip over on Facebook, so be sure to connect with us over there (/RoamingAroundtheWorld) for more strategies you may be able to use on your upcoming trip!

May 8, 2019 at 10:21 PM

The conclusion I got from this lengthy post is that it’s miserable to be poor.

I m glad I am rich enough to not have to worry about all these and still enjoy everything, plus more.

I suggest you crack your head and think about how to make more money than scrimp and save.

May 9, 2019 at 9:57 AM

Congratulations on your wealth – that’s awesome! If you’ve got several hundreds of thousands of dollars lying around to take a world cruise, that’s definitely the way to go. But most people don’t and we want to show our method of how a cheap world cruise can still be possible, in relative luxury without the associated heavy cost.

Your conclusion strikes me as odd. This cruise around the world was such an awesome experience, that was not at all miserable for us. Also, we’re not poor.

For those who have the money to spend on a world cruise, it’s way easier to simply book one. And we’d recommend that. Yet we prefer to make our money go further and make smart financial decisions that enable us to travel indefinitely at a fairly young age. Thanks for the suggestion to make more money! As we continue to travel, we are indeed hustling hard to do just that. Happy travels! 🙂

May 24, 2022 at 2:10 PM

What an asinine thing to say. I think they did amazing for the money that they spent, and it shows far more initiative! I want to do a year around the world with my son when he gets older, and hate flying/love cruising. This blog has given me much food for thought. As for “make more money” I’m guessing that you ( the reply) are an entitled prick who thinks that student debt shouldn’t be forgiven bc YOU paid off your college debt when tuition was 4 figures. You probably made a decent wage and we’re able to buy a house when the market wasn’t inflated, either, and probably skimp on your fair share of taxes by money laundering or otherwise finishing loopholes. Go back and play with your MAGA hat. The rest of us appreciate tips to enjoy exploring the world on beer pockets.

March 7, 2023 at 4:35 PM

What a dick of a comment

February 27, 2019 at 12:09 AM

So awesome you pulled that off! I always recommend people visit in the shoulder season, since the weather is usually quite good still but there are WAY less tourists and everything is cheaper. Glad you were able to take advantage of that for your trip.

February 17, 2019 at 7:23 AM

We love cruising, but we haven’t taken a repositioning cruise yet. So I really enjoyed reading about your voyages. Plus, that tip about having the case of beer sent to your stateroom was brilliant!

Kudos to you for researching and executing such a lengthy itinerary! Our dogs at home keep us from taking lengthy cruises, but maybe in the future (retired? in between pups?) we can attempt something similar. You’re inspiring!

– Dana Pittsburgh, PA

January 10, 2019 at 6:26 PM

You have inspired me! I’ve been seriously thinking about a world cruise when I retire but even the cheap ones are $20,000. This strategy is brilliant. I was thinking about wedging this travel in between selling a house and before buying another….putting my things in storage which saves some money by not paying for housing I’m not living in. I am curious how much you think you spent…all in; including the land travel.

January 15, 2019 at 9:17 AM

Always glad to provide a bit of travel inspiration to show how such an extravagant experience can be an affordable reality! 🙂 Our total costs, including land travel, are outlined in detail in the post. Be sure to check out the section subtitled “What Did The Entire Cheap World Cruise Cost?”

April 15, 2019 at 6:53 PM

How does one find the time and money to do something like this??

April 18, 2019 at 4:54 PM

Many people could pursue something like this in retirement. That would perhaps be the easiest way. Personally, we take a more unconventional route. We live a nomadic and minimalistic lifestyle with no home, no car, and very few possessions. Hence we have almost no expenses other than travel. And our travel expenses actually cost us less than it would to live “normal lives” back in the US. Meanwhile, we work online which brings us income and fuels our travel expenses. So this is also a way that someone could have the time and money to do something like this, as I hope we have proven it can indeed be a reality.

November 7, 2018 at 3:38 AM

Hey you two look great together. I am happy that i’ve found this blog it has some interesting posts that i will read this week. Thank you.

September 4, 2018 at 11:10 AM

I’m so glad to have found this page! I’m a solo traveler who has developed a bit of a cruising bug, and that dreaded solo supplement causes a lot of problems. I’m trying to be more aggressive about finding re-positioning that will work with my schedule (I’m a university professor, so my time “off” is generous, but pretty inflexible).

My question is about Costa cruise lines. One reason I’ve shied away, despite they’re lower prices, is that they have a bad reputation among North American cruises. In your experience, how justified is this? As far as I can tell, the complaints come down to safety and rudeness by the crew. I’ve seen so many reviews that start with something like “COSTA CRUISES DOESN’T CARE ABOUT NON-ITALIAN PASSENGERS!” Obviously, Costa had a well-publicized accident that seems to have been partially due to negligence, but what about crew attitude? My sense is that the complaints I described have a hefty dose of “It wasn’t what I was used to, so I hated it!” hysteria to them.

Many thanks for any info you can provide, and for this great site in general!

September 6, 2018 at 12:58 PM

Personally, we enjoyed our experience with Costa overall. We had read many of those overly negative reviews which made us very reluctant to book an entire month cruise. So we came aboard the Costa Victoria with low expectations, which were easily exceeded. Coming from Asia, we absolutely loved all the Italian food. We never tired of it and found the cuisine to be excellent. And we loved all the Italian flair found throughout the ship. We were clearly in the minority as non-European passengers. (I think there were only a few dozen Americans total). But that never felt like a drawback for us. We found it to be a novelty to experience another culture while on a cruise, instead of being in the Americanized “bubble” that many international cruises sometimes are. We never felt any rudeness by the crew. Most of the crew was Indonesian, Indian, and Philippino anyways. Announcements were always repeated in English and there was a dedicated Guest Relations person from UK for English-speakers. I do think that some of the complaints is from the “It wasn’t what I was used to” sentiment. That said, there were still some negatives that we experienced. Perhaps the biggest is that they began a refurbishment project while in transit back to Italy, of which the construction in common areas justifiably upset a lot of passengers of all nationalities, and there were some safety concerns there too. Besides that, there were just little minor things that we found annoying, like free coffee only being available during breakfast and never any ice available at the buffet. But these are things we can easily look past. Overall, we’d definitely cruise with Costa again and would like to go on a different ship not actively undergoing refurbishment. We may try to write a full review of our experience as an American on Costa in a future post.

August 23, 2018 at 4:56 AM

It takes some diligent research and planning to string together all that you did. Kudos on making it happen on your terms and budget! It sounds like you really had some amazing adventures during your time traveling. Glad to hear you also splurged on some things like a proper Swiss fondue dinner and bouchons in Lyon – definitely important experiences in my book.

August 23, 2018 at 10:47 AM

It would have been a tragedy to pass through Switzerland without some fondue! 😂 It was one of our splurge spends on food throughout the trip and worth every cent. Eating (and drinking) across Europe was definitely some important experiences for us!

August 21, 2018 at 3:52 PM

My head is spinning! Shows you that I had no idea such a thing was even possible! So great your repositioning worked out so well! What an amazing experience. Thanks for the breakdown! This post is jam packed with helpful and useful info! Great job 🙂

August 21, 2018 at 11:57 AM

Wow, this is the first super detailed post that I really appreciate! So much to learn from this! Also, my first time reading about a repositioning cruise! Awesome!

August 20, 2018 at 3:28 PM

What an amazing idea – I’ve always dreamed of a world cruise but always thought the cost would be far more than that. I’d never heard of a repositioning cruise before, so even if I don’t manage a world cruise, I’m definitely considering booking one of those!

August 20, 2018 at 6:36 PM

It’s certainly an alternative way to be able to accomplish a world cruise much more affordably, that worked well for us! 🙂

August 19, 2018 at 11:06 PM

Cheapest cabin for a world cruise is $124,998 per couple – OUCH! I’ve heard of repositioning cruises but would never had thought to string them together creatively. Pretty brilliant actually

August 20, 2018 at 6:35 PM

Yeah, $125K… ouch is right! It was fun stringing together these repositioning cruises to form a much more affordable world cruise of our own. 🙂

August 19, 2018 at 1:30 PM

Wow you do have some amazing tips to save up on the cost. I just read the part on mathematics of saving and spending on drinks. Need to read others in details too. Saving up this post.

August 18, 2018 at 2:08 PM

wow, I’ve never heard of a repositioning cruise! What a fabulous idea. I’m off to research right now – you seem to have it so well sussed!

August 18, 2018 at 10:24 AM

What an interesting read. I would not have believed what you achieved possible, The tip about repositioning is an excellent one that I never knew about. I will definitely make use of that in the future. I have bookmarked this post as I intend to make the most of your fabulous advice.

August 18, 2018 at 10:40 AM

We weren’t sure it was possible either! 😂 But now happy to show that it is. Yes, the repositioning cruises was really a critical component to this whole plan and such a great travel tactic – we love using them!

August 16, 2018 at 11:05 PM

Thanks for sharing this. Can’t wait to spend more time to read this in detail and really soak it in – this is definitely the way we like to plan our trips, but haven’t planned one this long yet!

August 18, 2018 at 10:43 AM

Yeah, we tried to pack a lot of info into this one big, long post. We hope you may find some helpful nuggets of info or travel tips to use in planning some future adventures of your own. 🙂

August 16, 2018 at 12:46 PM

Did you come across any language barriers while travelling. The one thing that worries me about travelling to somewhere like Asia is not understanding signs/place names or making yourself understood to taxi drivers. Or was English used in most places?

August 16, 2018 at 2:01 PM

Sure, there were some languages difficulties occasionally, but really never anything to preventative. Having Google Translate on our phone has been a godsend to interpret signs and to communicate with other people. Also, we’ve found that just learning a few very basic phrases (greetings, thank you, etc.) can go a really long way. Also, English has become quite a common second-language around the world, so we’ve been fortunate that many people want to practice their English and are able to speak to us. When there has been a big language barrier, we’ve found miming and smiling can be surprisingly effective to get things sorted out. Among the countries we visited during this voyage around the world, China presented the most significant challenges, as English was rarely spoken there. But we managed to get by just fine between Google Translate and lots of miming. It was definitely a challenge at times but that’s all part of the fun!

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5 secrets to getting a luxury cruise for less

Editor's Note

Luxury cruises range in price from expensive to outrageously expensive. But the value of high-end ships is clear: For the money, you get more fare inclusions, nicer accommodations, upscale dining and higher space-to-passenger and crew-to-passenger ratios than on big, mass-market ships.

Still, sometimes you want the luxe for less.

You'll never find a cheap luxury cruise, but you can find sailings that are less expensive than others (either when sorting by the total cost or the per-night rate). You might have to compromise on sail dates or take a risk with the weather, but you can get great value by choosing the cruise less traveled.

Here are the five most affordable luxury cruises we could find so you can save a little bit when you sail in style.

For more cruise guides, news and tips, sign up for TPG's cruise newsletter .

Fall Caribbean cruises

Caribbean cruises might be the bread and butter of mass-market cruise lines, but they don't have the same prominence among the itineraries of the luxury lines. Tropical cruises on luxury lines tend to be shorter sailings, taking place in the fall and winter (rather than year-round) and often targeting younger professionals who might not have the time to take two-week vacations.

Combine those factors with a shoulder-season fall travel date (between mid-September and the week before Christmas), and you have yourself a more affordable luxury cruise.

For example, Regent Seven Seas Cruises ' 2024-2025 Caribbean season runs from November through March. The least expensive sailing for the season takes place in early December in the travel lull between Thanksgiving and Christmas. Fares start at $4,299 per person for a weeklong round-trip cruise from Miami. A similar seven-night sailing costs $4,999 ($700 more) in February.

Related: How to snag cruise ship suites for less

Shoulder-season Alaska cruises

No matter which cruise line you sail, it's a truth universally acknowledged that the first and last Alaska sailings of the season are the most affordable. Why? Timing and weather.

The Alaska cruise season begins in late April or May and runs through September and occasionally October. These travel dates are often nonstarters for families who wait for the summer school break to take their vacations. Even travelers not bound by school schedules sometimes shy away from these cruises because of the imperfect weather conditions.

In May, temperatures can still be chilly in Alaska, waterways in glacier areas can be clogged with ice, Alaska's famous salmon haven't started to run and bus service at Alaska's famed Denali National Park hasn't yet begun. In September and October, the temperatures start dropping — and the rain keeps falling — and attractions such as Denali begin to close.

All that said, if you're willing to take a risk on the weather and aren't planning a land tour up to Denali, you can score a deal on a high-end Alaska sailing during these off-peak times.

In 2025, a September Alaska cruise on Silversea starts at $4,500 per person on Silver Moon. The same cruise in July starts at $5,900, making the shoulder-season cruise $1,400 less expensive. Even better, May is less rainy than July, so you could experience sunnier days on the more affordable sailing.

Related: The best time to go on a cruise

Transatlantic crossings

Many travelers choose their cruise for the ports of call. Cruisers are drawn to the destinations, whether they're checking exotic ports off their bucket list or love spending time on the beach. It's no surprise, then, that longer-than-average itineraries with few to no port calls are not warmly embraced by many cruise fans (except for devoted sea-day lovers).

Because many cruise ships regularly reposition between Europe (where they spend the summer) and the Caribbean (where they spend the winter), transatlantic crossings are inevitable. To attract guests, the cruise lines add interesting onboard activities and guest lecturers to the voyage, and they lower prices. If you love relaxing sea days and would revel in spending day after day in the middle of the ocean, an ocean crossing is a surefire way to get a luxury cruise experience for less.

Small, all-inclusive line SeaDream is a solid example of how affordable transatlantic sailings can get. In 2025, SeaDream 1 will sail its last Mediterranean cruise of the season from Barcelona to Malaga, Spain, and cruise prices start at $6,799 for an eight-night cruise. The ship then sails from Malaga across the Atlantic to San Juan, Puerto Rico. That 13-night sailing is five nights longer than the preceding cruise, but its starting price is $3,799 — a $3,000 difference.

Entry-level cabins

As a traveler chasing luxury, you're all about the upgrade. To get a great price on a high-end cruise ship, you might want to reconsider your aversion to booking the cheapest rooms.

Entry-level suites on the nicest ships are not the windowless closets you'll find on some of the mass-market ships. They're spacious cabins with either windows or private balconies and separate sleeping and sitting areas; many have nicely appointed, reasonably sized bathrooms and often walk-in or large closets. You'll get the same personal service, have access to the same gourmet dining and can enjoy the same ship amenities (a spa, a serene pool deck, social lounges and more) as folks in the top suites.

Also, you'll pay less. For example, an entry-level suite on luxury line Seabourn 's Seabourn Encore is a veranda suite measuring 246 to 302 square feet with a 68- to 83-square-foot private balcony. On a seven-night Greece and Turkey cruise departing in June 2025, prices for these rooms start at $5,499 per person. Opt for the next suite level up — a 450-square-foot penthouse suite with a 93- to 103-square-foot balcony — and prices start at $9,299. That's an increase of $3,800, all for a suite you won't spend much time in on this port-intensive itinerary.

Related: The best luxury cruise lines for elegance and exclusivity

Suite enclaves on big ships

Several big-ship cruise lines have entered the luxury travel space with suite enclaves that come with extra amenities, and the options can be affordable by luxury standards. These cruises are ideal for families looking for upscale accommodations combined with robust children's programming or luxury travelers who prefer a more casual vibe or a wealth of entertainment and activity options on board.

Options include Norwegian Cruise Line 's The Haven, Royal Caribbean 's Royal Suite Class and MSC Cruises ' Yacht Club. Travelers who book these suites get VIP treatment compared to their shipmates. They have access to exclusive restaurants, lounges and sun decks; get priority boarding and theater seating; and might even receive more fare inclusions such as drink packages, internet access, gratuities and butler service (depending on the category booked).

Cruise fares in these top suites aren't cheap, but they can be comparatively affordable in two ways. First, Royal Caribbean, MSC and Norwegian cruise ships typically sail shorter itineraries than true luxury lines, so you could book a short cruise to spend less on your total vacation cost. Second, while prices are comparable to the luxury lines and can skyrocket when ships start to sell out, you can sail in the ship's top suites for what you'd pay for midlevel on a luxury ship.

For example, you can book an aft-facing penthouse with a large balcony (619 to 668 square feet with a 199- to 248-square-foot balcony) on a seven-night Caribbean cruise on Norwegian Encore for $4,426 per person (including fees) on a February 2026 sailing. It comes with all of NCL's Free at Sea inclusions (drinks, dining, Wi-Fi and shore excursion credit), as well as the services of a butler and concierge, and access to The Haven's private lounge, restaurant and sun deck.

A weeklong Regent Seven Seas cruise to the Caribbean in February costs $10,349 per person for a 655-square-foot Grandeur Suite (with a 166- to 263-square-foot balcony). The cheapest veranda suite on that sailing starts at $4,999 per person — still more expensive than a suite in Norwegian's The Haven.

Related: The 7 best cruise ship suites — picked by someone who has seen them all

Bottom line

A luxury cruise will never be cheap, but you can find ways to spend less when you travel on high-end ships. Booking early and taking advantage of limited-time promotions will also help you save when you sail in style.

Planning a cruise? Start with these stories:

• The 5 most desirable cabin locations on any cruise ship
• A beginners guide to picking a cruise line
• The 8 worst cabin locations on any cruise ship
• The ultimate guide to what to pack for a cruise
• A quick guide to the most popular cruise lines
• 21 tips and tricks that will make your cruise go smoothly
• Top ways cruisers waste money
• The ultimate guide to choosing a cruise ship cabin

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From Virgin Voyages to Carnival: These 10 cruises are worth the money, travelers say

When it comes to a cruise vacation, it's all aboard. An October survey from Condé Nast Traveler  revealed that 47% of people said they would be interested in setting sail on a ship.

A study by the Cruise Lines International Association also found that traveling by cruise is becoming one of the fastest-growing tourism sectors.

In October, U.S. News and World Report published its 2023 ranking of the best cruises for the money. The report ranked the top ships out of 17 of the most popular ocean cruise lines and gave them a rating of one through five.

U.S. News and World Report ranked the cruise lines based on the following factors:

• Average overall rating
• Average nightly pricing on a scale of one to five
• Value-added benefits included in the base fare, such as prepaid gratuities, free onboard Wi-Fi access, etc.

Virgin Voyages is worth the money, travelers say

Overall rating: 4.39

Created by British entrepreneur Richard Branson, Virgin Voyages ranked as the best cruise line for the money.

The adults-only cruise has three ships in the fleet, with a fourth debuting in 2024. Virgin Voyages stands out thanks to its free Wi-Fi access onboard, over 20 dining venues, unlimited group workouts and all essential drinks, which include sodas, drip coffee, water and more.

All Virgin Voyage ships are nearly identical and feature similar layouts, according to the U.S. News and World Report. The cruise line offers sailings to the Caribbean, Europe and the South Pacific and has ports in Miami, Puerto Rico, Spain and more.

According to Bloomberg , rates start at $1,550 per double-occupancy cabin.

Top 10 cruise lines that are worth the money

• Virgin Voyages
• Celebrity Cruises
• Princess Cruises
• Royal Caribbean International
• Holland America Line
• MSC Cruises
• Carnival Cruise Line
• Norwegian Cruise Line
• Cunard Line
• Costa Cruises

Celebrity Cruises is the No. 2 cruise line that is worth the money, according to travelers. It has an overall rating of 4.36.

The line has 16 ships and stops in Asia, the Caribbean, Europe and more. Each ship carries approximately one crew member for every two passengers, according to the report.

Voyages range anywhere from three to 18 nights. Since late 2020, Celebrity Cruises has included free Wi-Fi, unlimited drinks and daily gratuities in its base fare .

Princess Cruises ranked as the No. 3 cruise line for the money, with an overall rating of 4.02.

It is the fifth largest cruise line in the world with 17 ships and trips that last between two and 116 days. It sails to popular destinations in Europe, the Caribbean, Alaska and more.

Princess Cruises has approximately one crew member for every two or three passengers, according to the report.

As an homage to its Hollywood debut on the 1977 TV series, "The Love Boat," Princess Cruises offers versatile itineraries like "Movies Under the Stars" poolside screenings and their takes on "The Voice," "Deal or No Deal" and more.

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Royal Caribbean's newest ship is also its priciest. Here's what it's like spending as little as possible, with no lobster or other upgrades.

• Royal Caribbean's Icon of the Seas could be an expensive vacation compared to other cruise ships.
• Sailing on the mega-ship without paying for any of its upcharged amenities is possible.
• But it would mean spending at least $265 a day, staying sober, and repeating meals.

A budget vacation on Royal Caribbean's new wildly popular Icon of the Seas is possible. Just be prepared to stay sober, repeat meals, and pay at least $265 a day.

Right now, there's likely no better example of the mass-market cruise industry's shift toward the budget airline strategy — charge a cheap base fare and offer irresistible up-charged amenities — than Royal Caribbean's new world's largest cruise liner.

After all, what other ship comes with a $100,000-a-week cabin and a $200-per-person restaurant?

But it is possible to vacation on the mega-ship without giving into any of its upcharged restaurants and activities. If you're strong enough to do so, here's what your seven nights on Icon of the Seas could look like.

Be warned: It won't include lobsters or private lounges .

Less than half of Icon’s 28 eateries are complimentary, so you’ll likely repeat meals.

Picky eaters are sure to find at least one satisfactory option at the ship's three buffets, one of which is Mexican-themed.

If not, the complimentary pizza shop or sandwiches from the two on-board cafés might suffice.

In search of variety, grab a Mediterranean-style wrap or crepe at the five-stall food hall instead.

For a more formal dinner, budget cruisers can grub on a three-course meal at the complimentary dining room.

The three-floor restaurant has a rotating menu with classics like crab cakes, New York strip steak, and cheesecake.

Just don't expect lobster or filet mignon. Both cost extra.

For better or worse, guests snubbing upcharged options would also be snubbing booze.

Like most mass-market cruise ships, Icon of the Seas' 18 bars aren't free. If you want alcohol and sodas, be prepared to pay for a beverage package.

Thankfully, the ship’s complimentary amenities could distract you from your sobriety.

Icon's surf simulator and impressive six-slide waterpark won't run you a tab.

The same goes for its seven pools and nine hot tubs — save for one of each exclusive to guests who've booked a suite.

For drier activities, families could spend their afternoons scaling the rock climbing wall or testing their putt at the nine-hole mini-golf course.

Or they could work off their lunch buffet by sweating it out at the sports court — basketball and ping pong included — for no extra charges.

Fortunately, Icon of the Seas' nighttime entertainment is also a great equalizer. Its ice skating performance, rendition of the Broadway hit "Wizard of Oz," and multi-disciplinary dance, swim, and dive show are complimentary to all guests.

But if you want to test your fear of heights at the part-walking, part-agility, part-ziplining Crown's Edge , you'll have to cough up $49.

The arcade games aren't free, either.

Guests staying in suites have access to a shared outdoor lounge.

There's also the option to pay up to $700 for one day with a private cabana-like "casita."

But if you're on a budget, you'll have to fight "pool chair hogs" for the best poolside seating instead. (Consider bringing a sheet mask with you — a 25-minute facial at the ship's spa is almost $150.)

And hold off on your Instagram photo dumps until after your vacation.

Otherwise, you'll have to cough up $31 per day and device for streaming-enabled WiFi, totaling $217 for the duration of the cruise. (Icon of the Seas is exclusively operating seven-night sailings.)

But let’s face it: The base fare alone isn’t ultra-affordable compared to other cruise ships.

Patrick Scholes, a lodging and leisure research analyst at Truist Securities, told Business Insider in late 2023, three months before Icon's launch , that the vessel was priced at a premium of "at least 50%, if not more."

Steep, compared to the typical 20% to 50% new-ship premiums.

The cheapest interior stateroom for 2024 currently costs $265 per person per day.

But even the windowless cabin comes with its own list of upgrades.

Travelers who want to pick their own stateroom must pay an additional $128 per person. If they opt for one of the larger (by at least one square foot) interior cabins, it'll be an extra $100.

Which is to say, good luck avoiding any of the upcharged amenities on your Icon of the Seas vacation .

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