What’s the Cheapest Month to Go on a Cruise?
If you’re like me, you probably want to get the most vacation for your money and cruises are already a fantastic value. But here’s the thing: when you book can make just as big of a difference as what ship you choose.
So… when is the cheapest time to set sail?
The Quick Answer
For most cruise lines (including Royal Caribbean), you’ll find some of the lowest prices in January, February, and October.
These months aren’t random they’re part of what’s often called the “shoulder season.” That’s the sweet spot between peak travel times, when cruise lines are more likely to drop prices to fill staterooms. Fewer travelers means more empty cabins, and empty cabins mean cruise lines start offering irresistible rates and extra perks. Honestly, you will find some of the best deals of the entire year during this time. I’ve personally seen prices drop as low as $300 and that’s not a typo!
Why These Months Work So Well
Think about it this way:
January & February: The holiday rush is over, kids are back in school, and most people are focused on work or saving up after the holidays. Ships tend to have more availability, and prices drop to attract bookings.
October: Summer break is long gone, but the holiday season hasn’t kicked in yet. Fewer families are traveling, and you can often find “flash sales” as cruise lines try to sell remaining cabins before the end-of-year rush.
When demand is low, prices follow. It’s as simple as that.
The “Avoid Families” Trick
Now, I love kids — but if you’re looking for a quieter cruise experience, you’ll want to avoid school breaks and summer vacation.
Summer (June–August) is the busiest time for most cruise lines, especially for family-friendly lines like Royal Caribbean. You’ll see more crowds at the pool, longer lines for activities, and higher prices.
Spring Break & Holiday Cruises (late March/April and late December) also see big jumps in both cruise and airfare costs.
If you want fewer crowds, aim for those “in-between” months when families are at home and not traveling.
My Personal Experience
I’ve cruised in the middle of summer and during the low-peak months, and the difference is honestly night and day.
Summer Cruises: Prices for both the cruise and flights were much higher. The ship was buzzing (and sometimes a little too buzzing) with people everywhere. Finding a pool chair after 10 a.m.? Not happening!
Shoulder Season Cruises: The ship felt calmer, crew members seemed more relaxed, and I even noticed service was faster in restaurants. Flights were also significantly cheaper and I saved a lot just on airfare by booking in October instead of July.
The bonus? I felt like I got more out of my cruise; fewer lines, more space, and a vacation that felt truly relaxing.
Weather Considerations
It’s worth noting that October is in hurricane season for the Caribbean. That doesn’t mean you shouldn’t go. Cruise ships can reroute to avoid storms, and you can score amazing deals. Just be prepared for possible itinerary changes, and consider travel insurance for peace of mind.
And here’s something many people don’t realize: the entire summer season is actually part of hurricane season. Did you know hurricane season officially runs from June 1 to November 30? A lot of travelers hesitate to cruise in the fall because they’re worried about storms, but in reality, summer sailings are in that same window. The key difference is that fall often has fewer crowds and much better prices so if you’re flexible and prepared, you can take advantage of those bargains.
The Bottom Line
If you want to save money and avoid the busiest crowds, aim for January, February, or October. Not only will you likely score a cheaper cruise fare, but you’ll also find better flight deals and enjoy a more laid-back onboard experience.
Ready to start planning? Grab my Free Cruise Planning Checklist to make sure you don’t miss a single step toward your dream vacation — download it here!
