Cheaper to book as soon as rates come out for 2005 or book onboard?

[DizMare]

Theoretical planning here. I'd like to cruise during Easter week 2005 (that's in March). Would I get my best rate booking just as soon as 2005 dates are released (Oct/Nov?), or onboard when I cruise in April of 2004?

I guess one has to take into account both early booking savings and shipboard credits.

Opinions, friends?

 

[Michelle]

Book when the rates first come out.

Then when you're onboard get a price for the same cruise date. Compare the price (with the credit, if offered) to what you have booked and decide then. You can always cancel the first booking if the second is a better deal.

Keep in mind that holiday sailings are generally BLACKED OUT for any shipboard credit offers so it's not very likely that they would be offereing a credit for that sailing if booking onboard anyway.

Good luck!

 

[DizMare]

Thanks, Michelle! I didn't know about the "blackout" - but it makes sense. I'll just haunt these boards until someone posts that 2005 dates are out (and then I'll continue to haunt the boards anyway )

 

[il-gander]

OK, cruise newbie question - if you have to change sailing dates, is there any kind of penalty other than whatever the current price difference for the new cruise you select is?

 

[SINK]

Originally posted by il-gander
OK, cruise newbie question - if you have to change sailing dates, is there any kind of penalty other than whatever the current price difference for the new cruise you select is?

No penalty if it is still over 60 days out (before the final payment due date) and before the cruise documents are mailed. You can have reservations made onboard switched to any sailing and still retained the onboard credit (not sure about the holiday cruises).