How to Find Cheap Cruises: 10 Money-Saving Tips

Cruising doesn't have to be expensive. With the right strategy, you can find incredible deals on sailings that include accommodation, meals, entertainment and transport between destinations — all in one fare. Here are ten proven ways to find cheap cruises without compromising on the experience.

1. Book Early for Best Choice

Cruise lines release itineraries 12–18 months in advance, and early-bird pricing is often the lowest you'll find. Booking early also means you get the widest choice of cabins — if you want a specific location (mid-ship, higher deck, balcony with a sea view), early booking is essential. Many lines offer early-saver rates with added perks like on-board credit or free drinks packages.

2. Be Flexible on Dates

If you can avoid school holidays and bank holiday weekends, you'll see significantly lower prices. A Mediterranean cruise in May or October can cost 30–40% less than the same itinerary in August. Even shifting your departure by a week can make a meaningful difference. Use FareTide's cruise search to compare prices across different dates.

3. Consider Repositioning Cruises

When cruise ships move between seasonal regions — for example, from the Mediterranean to the Caribbean in autumn — they offer one-way "repositioning" sailings. These are often dramatically cheaper per night than regular cruises because they include several consecutive sea days and a less conventional route. If you enjoy the on-board experience and don't mind flying home from a different port, repositioning cruises are exceptional value.

4. Use Price Tracking Tools

Cruise prices fluctuate regularly as demand changes. A sailing that costs £1,200 today might drop to £899 next week. FareTide monitors prices across Cunard and P&O Cruises multiple times a day, recording every change so you can see the full price history. Check our price drops page daily to spot the biggest recent reductions — some drops are significant and don't last long.

5. Choose an Inside Cabin

An inside cabin is the single biggest way to cut your cruise fare. The difference between an inside and a balcony cabin on the same sailing can be £300–£800+ per person. If you're the type of traveller who uses the cabin mainly for sleeping and showering, an inside cabin is perfectly comfortable and gives you access to exactly the same ship, food, entertainment and ports as everyone else.

6. Travel Off-Season

Shoulder and off-season cruises offer the best per-night value. Norwegian Fjords in May or late September, the Mediterranean in October, or the Canaries in winter — all offer excellent experiences at lower prices. You'll also enjoy quieter ports and more space on the ship. Browse our cheapest cruises by departure port to see what's available.

7. Compare Across Cruise Lines

Different cruise lines price similar itineraries differently, and what's included in the fare varies. One line might look cheaper but charge extra for drinks and tips, while another includes them. Always compare the total cost, not just the headline fare. Our Cunard vs P&O comparison is a good place to start for UK-departing cruises.

8. Watch for Price Drops

Unlike flights, cruise prices often decrease as the sailing date approaches if cabins remain unsold. Cruise lines would rather sell a cabin at a discount than sail with it empty. This is why price tracking is so valuable — FareTide's price drops page shows you exactly which sailings have dropped in price and by how much.

9. Pack Smart to Avoid Extras

Overpacking leads to unnecessary spending — buying toiletries you forgot, replacing shoes that weren't suitable, or paying for last-minute formal wear. Check the cruise line's dress code in advance, pack layers rather than bulky items, and bring essentials like sunscreen and seasickness remedies from home where they're cheaper than the on-board shop.

10. Book Directly with the Cruise Line

While travel agents sometimes offer added perks, booking directly with the cruise line often gives you the most flexibility for changes and cancellations. You'll also have a direct relationship for any issues. Check prices on the cruise line's own website and on FareTide — we link directly to the cruise line so you can see the current fare and book when you're ready.