Last Minute Booking...

[Bo'sMom]

Anyone ever get a good deal on a cruise by waiting until a month or two before? Thanks.

 

[kcashner]

Yes, we've gotten some good deals within a month or so of cruising--but not in the last 2 years. We don't qualify for FL resident deals (which come out about 90 days ahead.) A couple years ago, we got a January 7 day for $599. However, the least I've seen recently thru normal channels is $799.

Your best deal is to book as far ahead as possible (to get the best "early booking" discount.) This discount decreases as the ship fills. IF DCL drops the rate for your category on your sailing, they will match the new rate for you, but only if you contack them and ask for the adjustment. Your TA can make this request if you use one. A good TA will track the rates and catch it if your cruise becomes discounted further.

 

[ivanova]

FL resident rates are not available on every cruise ... and if you aren't a FL resident, there aren't discounted prices that you can avail yourself of normally ... with DCL they usually sail pretty full as it is, and prices INCREASE as the cruises get closer, unlike other cruise lines that might offer discounts at the last minute in order to fill sailings.

 

[kplatt]

We had a great price on our last cruise -- about 67% off when booked about 2 months before the cruise, and we were able to use frequent flyer miles to/from the port of San Juan. Unfortunately, it was from a DU competitor that markets great deals on last minute cruises, and I was very worried about how it was going to work out. But the arrangements came together well, and it was a "good enough" cruise -- but not Disney!

 

[kplatt]

Sorry, me again. The same competitor does offer reduced rates on Disney, too.

 

[Jsme]

I had a friend to get a great deal last year right after Jeanne. It was her, DH and DD. They went on a 3 or 4 day for $900 total!

Oh I forgot to add, she called about a week before the cruise. She booked directly with DCL. Our TA did not believe her when she told her the price she got. She had to email our TA with the proof! LOL