What's the latest you advise booking a cruise?

[Violet Parr]

I am just at the very beginning of my cruise research. We are considering a transatlantic in 2016 or 2017. We are waiting on some dates from my husband's company. I think I read once ages ago that cruises need to be booked really far in advance for some reason, but I cannot remember what that was.

Thoughts? Thanks in advance for all of the help for a total newbie!

VP

 

[PrincessShmoo]

I am just at the very beginning of my cruise research. We are considering a transatlantic in 2016 or 2017. We are waiting on some dates from my husband's company. I think I read once ages ago that cruises need to be booked really far in advance for some reason, but I cannot remember what that was.

Thoughts? Thanks in advance for all of the help for a total newbie!

VP

The reason for booking as far out as possible has to do with the fact that prices are generally lowest on opening day of any given itinerary. As space onboard the ship fills, prices go up. The closer to the cruise date you book, usually, the more you'll pay.

Exception - on those cruises that DCL deems as not selling well, they may offer last minute restricted fares. While typically lower than the prevailing rate, the last minute rates are usually higher than the rate were on opening day. But not always. On occasion, they may be lower.