last minute cruises virgin

Too hip or just right? Here's what it was really like sailing on Virgin Voyages for the first time

With a nighttime show called "Never Sleep Alone" that awards golden condoms to participants, an onboard tattoo parlor and in-room music and lighting settings with options like "get it on" and "hangover mode," adults-only Virgin Voyages clearly caters to a kid-free crowd. Still, I had no idea what to expect as I stepped onto Virgin Voyages' Scarlet Lady .

Leading up to its maiden voyage in 2021, Virgin Voyages marketed itself as the cruise line for vacationers who otherwise weren't interested in traditional cruising. It aimed to appeal to those who were young and hip, wanted to party and craved an atmosphere without little kids running around.

Up until recently, I'd only ever sailed with Disney Cruise Line — and with my kids in tow. However, the Virgin Voyages concept has intrigued me since it launched.

Could Richard Branson's edgy Virgin Voyages truly be a perfect match for trips without kids? Or, would I feel completely out of place and overwhelmed by the rock star attitude featured throughout the cruise line's ships?

There was only one way to satisfy my curiosity — I booked a sailing on Virgin Voyages' Scarlet Lady.

Would the four-night cruise from Miami , with stops in both Key West, Florida, and Bimini, Bahamas, impress me enough to consider Virgin Voyages for future trips? Here's what I took away from the experience — and whether I'd cruise with Virgin Voyages again.

For cruise news, reviews and tips, sign up for TPG's cruise newsletter .

There's a surprisingly diverse crowd on board

Like many people, I went into my cruise expecting most passengers (or "sailors," as the line calls them) to be millennials based on the flashy marketing I've seen from the line. Much to my surprise, though, there was a fair mix of people on my sailing.

Sure, there were millennials in their late 20s, 30s and even early 40s — including me, as I fall within the oldest bracket for that generation — but for every 27-year-old on board, there was also someone close to 70 years old like the cruise line's founder, Richard Branson.

Last year, Tom McAlpin, the president and CEO of Virgin Voyages, told TPG's resident cruise expert Gene Sloan that on early sailings of Scarlet Lady, the average passenger age was in the 50s, with plenty on board in their 60s and 70s. Based on my trip, I'd say that is still a pretty accurate representation.

After a few days on board, it became clear that what passengers had in common wasn't the age listed in their passports but rather the shared desire to have a good time. For the most part, my fellow cruisers were a diverse, inclusive and vibrant group of vacationers who were all eager to strike up conversations with others, regardless of age.

Related: First look: 10 things I love about Virgin Voyages' new Valiant Lady cruise ship

The adult-oriented persona isn't as extreme as you might expect

While there is a "Scarlet Night" celebration featuring lots of red lights and sailors donning their best scarlet-colored attire, the atmosphere on board is far from what you'll find in Amsterdam's Red Light District.

The entertainment we experienced fell somewhere between PG-13 and R, though we admittedly headed to bed by 11 p.m., so perhaps offerings leaned more X-rated as the night went on.

There were a couple of shows that I wouldn't want to see with, say, my parents, such as the previously mentioned "Never Sleep Alone." During that event, participants were awarded golden condoms that granted access to a post-show VIP party. However, those adult activities were easy to spot on the agenda, so you could easily skip them if you wanted a more tame cruise experience.

Beyond the evening entertainment, the vibe was similar to what you'd find in Las Vegas . The pools, restaurants, spa, casino and exercise classes all featured plenty of skimpy outfits and adult-oriented jokes and innuendos, though you could avoid anything that was too outside your comfort zone.

Related: 5 cruise lines to try if you just can't stand being around kids on vacation

Dining options are plentiful (albeit hit or miss)

As far as I'm concerned, cruises are for eating — and Virgin Voyages offers numerous places to dine on Scarlet Lady.

In addition to featuring more than 20 grab-and-go spots and traditional sit-down eateries, there's the large Galley venue with various vendors arranged in a way similar to what you'd find in a food court or buffet.

Given all the options available, there were more places than we could try on our first Virgin Voyages cruise. Still, we sought to sample as much as possible during our four-night sailing.

If you're looking for a traditional sit-down experience, six onboard restaurants accept reservations for dinner: The Wake (which serves steaks and seafood), Razzle Dazzle Restaurant (a contemporary venue with vegetarian and American fare), The Test Kitchen (a laboratory-style eatery), Pink Agave (where gourmet Mexican cuisine is on the menu), Extra Virgin (an Italian-inspired venue) and Gunbae (which specializes in Korean barbecue).

Your cruise price covers dining at all of these spots, plus the quick bite options on the ship. However, some restaurants offer buy-up options labeled as "treat yourself" dishes that cost extra. For example, a half-dozen oysters at The Wake are going to set you back an additional $20, but the steak and clam chowder are 100% included.

Besides the main restaurants, there's the previously mentioned Galley, where you can savor everything from sushi roll bento boxes to 24-hour diner food. It is a hybrid of a grab-and-go and dine-in experience, meaning how you order will vary depending on which station you visit.

Additionally, you'll find casual spots that serve ice cream, pizza, poke bowls and more. You can also order room service; the food is complimentary, but there's a $5 delivery fee.

While I appreciated the array of options at our disposal, I found the quality of the food and service to be hit or miss. Some restaurants I loved so much that I went back a second time; at others, I took a solitary bite of food before deciding to move on.

For example, the tuna poke bowl I excitedly tried at the Sun Club Cafe was patently awful, and the sushi rolls at The Galley were disappointing, reminding me of what I'd find in my Texas grocery store.

Similarly, The Wake was lackluster, to say the least. While some fellow cruisers we met enjoyed the restaurant, it was extremely underwhelming during our visit, serving the worst shrimp and grits I've ever had. Not to mention, the service was slow and seafood options were surprisingly limited for a restaurant that claims to specialize in steak and seafood.

It wasn't all mediocre, though.

Gunbae's Korean fare was not only delicious but served in a setting that was an absolute blast to experience. It really captured how Virgin markets itself by offering staff-led drinking games and communal seating that encourages socializing. We had such a great time there that when we walked into a quiet and sparsely populated restaurant on our last night, we turned around and went back to Gunbae for a repeat experience that was just as memorable as our first visit.

Pink Agave was another standout restaurant. It didn't offer as much of a party vibe as Gunbae, but it still felt lively and served a solid selection of Mexican dishes.

Related: Cruise ship restaurant nirvana: The 9 best meals you can have at sea

The cabins are decent but could be improved

Unless you splurge on a pricy RockStar suite , you'll be placed in a cabin that looks modern but otherwise seems fairly standard, other than the fancy mood lighting.

Our Sea Terrace cabin was spotless and stayed true to the modern theme featured throughout the ship, but it wasn't the most comfortable spot on the whole.

While we enjoyed the red outdoor hammock that was shockingly comfortable and not merely a cute, Instagram-worthy gimmick, as well as the selection of in-room movies, which ranged from the original "Top Gun" to newer releases like "Elvis," the rest of the cabin left a lot to be desired.

The bathroom was quite small, to the point where it bordered on being a claustrophobic experience.

The bed was also rather hard and uncomfortable for my personal tastes, so much so that by the last night of our trip, I was ready to return to my more inviting setup at home.

Additionally, unlike Disney Cruise Line, where cabin attendants make it a point to get to know you and your preferences, Virgin Voyages lacked the same personalized service. I never interacted with a person in charge of our cabin, as it would be serviced while we were out (after pushing a button that sent the request to the crew) by a person that, to us, remained nameless and faceless.

Related: Virgin Voyages to debut cruise loyalty program in 2023, with temporary perks available now

The private beach club is top-notch

While other ports of call vary based on the sailing, a constant for Scarlet Lady is a stop at its private beach club in the Bahamas.

Situated on the island of Bimini, this spot was, in a word, fabulous.

Although it's not quite a private island like Royal Caribbean's CocoCay and Disney Cruise Line's Castaway Cay, that doesn't really matter. You'll feel like you're in an exclusive setting after taking the open-air tram from the ship's dock to the modern, beautiful beach club.

The club offers a couple of large pools, ample lounge chairs and towels, plenty of bars and a picture-perfect beach. A swim-up bar would have been nice, but that's being picky.

During your visit to the club, any drinks you order are charged to the ship, so bar tab credits you have during your cruise will work here, too. The food, which ranged from snapper steamed in a banana leaf to a salad featuring Bahamian mango and macadamia, is included, though some dishes were better than others. I loved mixing the curry, rice and snapper I ordered all together to create a pretty tasty bowl.

On-island entertainment is available as well, though I can't speak to what happened as the afternoon wore on, as we hit our sun quota by midday. However, rumor has it there was a pool float party that occurred after our departure.

Related: Virgin Voyages hopes to draw cruise newbies like me: Here's my first impression from its first sailing

You won't find the usual cruise experience on board

Virgin Voyages does not simply give its amenities and activities quirky names — like "Lick Me Til Ice Cream" for the onboard ice cream shop. The overall experience is a bit different than what you'll come across on traditional cruise lines.

To start, there are no drink packages — and that was a big complaint I heard on the ship from folks who were used to sailing with other lines that offer unlimited drink inclusion options . Instead, Virgin Voyages offers a bar tab that you can load before you sail. Sometimes bar tab credit is also included with the sailing as part of a promotion.

Blessedly, there are no keycards and associated lanyards to keep up with but rather adjustable bracelets that look like friendship bracelets from middle school. Unlike the ones from your childhood, these have built-in technology that opens your cabin door, allows you to charge things to your account and more.

There are also no set dining times, restaurant rotations or dress codes, though you can — and should — make dinner reservations. As a result, you can dine at whichever restaurant you prefer at a time that works for you.

Other than the cabin cleanings, the crew was more noticeable, too. We saw crew members on the basketball courts, eating in The Galley and just generally out and about around the ship even when they didn't appear to be on the clock, which helped create a more relaxed atmosphere.

Additionally, we didn't have to worry about extra tips, taxes or fees. Tips for the crew, spa services and more are factored into your cruise price, so what you see on the menu really is what you can expect to pay.

Another noticeable (and welcome) difference was how laid-back the line was with announcements and disembarking. Outside of a welcome announcement from the captain on the first day, we didn't hear another peep. On the last day, you just had to be off the ship by a respectable 10:45 a.m., so you could still go to a workout class, play some air hockey and have brunch without feeling rushed to depart.

Related: 21 tips and tricks that will make your first cruise go smoothly

Bottom line

Despite some underwhelming aspects here and there, such as some design choices we didn't love and a very crowded pool area, we had a great time.

The late-night spicy ramen, social atmosphere and fun ports more than made up for any hiccups. For us, it was like a four-day long party without the hangover.

In fact, we had such a great time that before disembarking Scarlet Lady, we put a $300 deposit down on a future Virgin Voyages sailing so we could receive $900 in discounts and credits the next time around.

It's safe to say that overall, the cruise was absolutely worth it — and one we can't wait to do all over again.

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How to Find Last-Minute Cruise Deals

With the rising cost of hotels and airfare, cruises are still one of the most affordable ways to travel.

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Cruising on a budget? There are many resources available for travelers looking to save money.

Cruising is back – in a big way – after all the turmoil and shutdowns in the industry during the COVID-19 pandemic.

According to Cruise Lines International Association's 2023 State of the Cruise Industry report, the intent to cruise is higher now than it was in December 2019, before the pandemic. About 85% of travelers who have been on a cruise will cruise again, which is 6% higher than it was pre-COVID.

John Lovell, president of the Travel Leaders Group division of Internova Travel Group, tells us, "Cruising has roared back since the pandemic and the lifting of sailing restrictions. It's a true success story! That means that we will see (and are seeing) full ships, even more so than pre-pandemic." He adds, "While Caribbean cruises remain popular, travelers are embracing river cruises, expedition cruises, smaller ships and off-the-beaten-path ports. There really is a cruise for everyone."

CLIA's report also states that passenger volume for 2023 is projected to reach an astounding 31.5 million passengers – 106% of the volume in 2019. In addition, the cruise industry is seeing higher numbers of solo travelers and people with mobility challenges – and there are more Gen X and millennials booking cruise vacations.

Chris Gray Faust, the executive editor of Cruise Critic, says that cancellation policies have also returned to normal with cruise bookings back to pre-pandemic levels, particularly for mainstream lines like Royal Caribbean International and Carnival Cruise Line . You also probably won't find many deals on sailings in high season and on the most anticipated new ships .

With more demand for cruise travel – one of the fastest-growing sectors of tourism – how can you find a last-minute cruise deal in 2023? Read on to find out how to book your dream cruise vacation for less.

When to find the best cruise deals

Scoring a great cruise deal depends on several factors, including the type of experience you're looking for ( adults-only or family-friendly , for example), the destination, the length of the sailing, the time of year and your flexibility to travel.

Lovell recommends booking early for the best pricing. "For many cruise lines, especially the expedition products and with some luxury lines, the best time to find deals is when they open new sailings," he says. "The cruises fill up quickly, so usually the best offer is the first offering in terms of pricing. Some of the larger cruise lines will have pricing and value-added promotions on sailings that still have open space about 100 days prior to sailing."

Summer 2023

If you're planning on traveling within the next few months, you may be able to score a last-minute cruise deal to some destinations, such as Alaska . According to Bob Levinstein, CEO of CruiseCompete.com, "There are still some great deals for the summer, especially in Alaska, which is particularly soft right now."

A representative from Priceline notes that the travel agency is also offering great deals for summer cruises to Alaska, the Caribbean and the Mediterranean.

When you're looking at pricing for cruises, be sure to compare fares that include the same costs, Levinstein advises. Some advertised fares that seem like an incredible deal don't include the port taxes and fees, which can substantially raise the price of your vacation.

Within 90 days of sailing

Gray Faust says the window for finding last-minute cruise deals is within 90 days of a sailing. "That three-month mark is when final deposits are due on a cruise, and historically the last point you could cancel your cruise without financial penalty," she says. "At that point, cruise lines try to fill those vacant cabins, usually in the form of slashed fares to entice people to book."

Levinstein agrees. "While the market has heated up, the closer-in the sailing the more likely you will find a bargain." He adds, "But as last-minute deals are based on how full a particular sailing on a particular ship might be at a given time, shopping around is often rewarded regardless of overall market conditions."

Fall or spring

You may find cheaper cruise fares if you're able to book a last-minute cruise departing in the spring or fall when most families with children in school can't travel. As such, cruise lines typically have more availability and lower pricing during these times.

Wave season

If you're willing to book a cruise during the promotional period known as "wave season" – which spans early January through the end of March – you may be able to find a last-minute cruise deal that fits your budget.

Hurricane season

Planning a last-minute cruise during hurricane season in the Caribbean and Mexico – from June 1 to Nov. 30 – is another option. These months coincide with the shoulder season in those regions, so it can be a great time to find cruise savings. If you do book a cruise during hurricane season, consider investing in a travel insurance policy that has trip interruption and trip cancellation benefits. You'll also want to make sure that all of your prepaid and nonrefundable expenses are covered in the policy.

Read: The Best Cruise Insurance Plans

Early December

Levinstein says the first two weeks of December are also a great time to take a cruise. Early December is typically when families are preparing for the holidays at home or getting ready to travel at the end of the month for Christmas and New Year's, so it's an ideal time to go on a cruise for less.

Book a last-minute cruise deal on GoToSea , a service of U.S. News.

How to find last-minute cruise deals

Cruise line sites

If you're internet-savvy and don't mind perusing the cruise lines' websites individually, check out their advertised discounted fares, included amenities and special bonus exclusive offers. These special fares often include free upgrades, airfare and credit for onboard spending. The types and level of perks may increase depending on the stateroom category.

For example, Norwegian Cruise Line offers a number of Free at Sea offers. These deals include unlimited open bar, shore excursion credits, dining at specialty restaurants, complimentary Wi-Fi and discounted rates for the second guest. Third and fourth guests staying in the same stateroom even get to sail for free with some deals.

In addition to the Free at Sea offers, Norwegian features CruiseFirst, a special bonus offer that essentially allows cruisers to earn free money. For example, if you purchase a $150 CruiseFirst certificate today for a six-day or longer voyage, it will double in value and you'll have $300 to spend on a cruise that you can take as early as 120 days from the purchase date. The certificates expire within three years.

If you're looking for reduced fares on a luxury cruise, it'll likely be more challenging to find a last-minute deal, with even lengthy – and expensive – world cruises selling out within hours. Levinstein explains this is because there's more demand than supply, when compared with the entry-level market.

Tips on Trips and Expert Picks

Travel tips, vacation ideas and more to make your next vacation stellar.

Cruise deal aggregator sites

If you prefer to use cruise deal aggregator sites, you can find last-minute cruises across the industry all in one place. Simply sort your findings by the month you'd like to travel, the length of your intended trip and where you wish to cruise. These are some of the best resources for finding cruise discounts:

• Cruise Critic
• Tripadvisor
• Cruise Compete

"Some lines began steering away from last-minute fare drops a few years ago, so keep an eye out for value-add deals as well," Gray Faust says. "While you might not get a super cheap base fare, things like free gratuities, drink packages and/or shore excursions could actually save you even more than you'd save on a slashed price."

'Kids sail free' fares

Some cruise lines allow kids to sail free , greatly reducing the total price of and/or adding value to your cruise. MSC Cruises allows guests ages 17 and younger to cruise for free year-round when they're the third and fourth passengers in the same stateroom with their parents. If you're considering a family cruise, check out the other cruise lines that offer similar promotions where children sail free, including Holland America Line and Norwegian.

Book a family cruise on  GoToSea , a service of U.S. News.

Cruise line loyalty programs

Consider joining your preferred cruise line's loyalty and membership programs for free upgrades. These are some of the best options:

• Carnival Cruise Line's VIFP Club:  This program features up to 40% discounts off fares, up to $50 in onboard credits, access to exclusive deals and other perks. Carnival VIFP members receive a loyalty number and can watch their points and rewards accrue online.
• Viking Cruises ' Explorer Society:   Viking's program offers past cruisers travel credits to use on future voyages, as well as members-only cocktail parties on the ship. Members are also privy to new itineraries and limited-time offers.
• Princess Cruises ' Captain's Circle:  Benefits with the Captain's Circle are based on the number of cruises you've taken. Some perks include early access to new itineraries, discounts for the onboard retail shops and excursions, complimentary minibar setups, priority disembarkation, access to the Platinum and Elite lounges, complimentary wine tasting events, and more.
• Norwegian Cruise Line's Latitudes Rewards:  This tiered program allows cruisers to earn discounts on select Norwegian products and services, such as beverage packages and signature spa treatments. You also get priority check-in, an exclusive cocktail party while on board, laundry service and more.

Cruise deal aggregator loyalty programs

You can also find loyalty programs through sites such as Expedia. An Expedia Rewards membership is free and offers discounts on travel; depending on your level (Blue, Silver or Gold), there are additional perks and benefits. You also earn rewards points to use toward booking future trips.

"On the Expedia website and through nearly 300 Expedia Cruises retail locations across North America, Expedia offers Member Prices, saving travelers up to 10% on last-minute deals, along with exclusive promotions on a variety of cruises," a company spokesperson says. "Expedia also secures special rates in advance on the most popular itineraries and cruise lines through the Expedia Exclusive Staterooms program. Most of all, travelers can reach out to one of Expedia's Vacation Consultants who can help navigate the current environment, answer any questions and help find the best value on their ideal vacations."

Read:  The Best Travel Rewards Programs

Travel advisors

Enlisting the help of a knowledgeable travel advisor can make planning easier – and it's one of the best ways to find last-minute cruise deals. Advisors, especially those specializing in cruises, usually have unique access to perks and discounts for big savings with cruise lines that can further enhance the value of your vacation and/or lower the total price.

Lovell agrees with this tip. "Demand for cruising is very high. I would always recommend booking early and working with a travel advisor," he says. "While there are lots of new ships, they often fill up quickly since travelers are eager to try out the latest and greatest the cruise lines have to offer."

Some aggregator sites also have their own travel advisors to assist in your search. Head of Priceline Cruises Denise Bialek says, "We highly recommend calling one of our Priceline Cruise advisors, as they are the most knowledgeable about the best rate options, know how to combine promotions to get the best deal and will save you time navigating the plethora of cruise lines, cabin categories, pricing, port charges and more." She adds, "An advantage of booking with one of our Priceline Cruise advisors is access to all cruise line offers and loyalty perks, in addition to our many Priceline exclusive deals, all supported by 24/7 service."

Additionally, keep in mind that travel advisors have insight into additional restrictions and the condition of each cruise line.

All-inclusive cruises

Though it may seem counterintuitive, you may be able to score a better value by booking an all-inclusive (or mostly all-inclusive) voyage than a budget cruise with a cheaper base fare. While these options are primarily in the luxury cruise line category, some fares are especially attractive thanks to included airfare costs, transfers to the ship, meals at all dining venues, premium wines and spirits, Wi-Fi access, and more.

When you book one of these cruises, you'll know the total cost upfront, and there won't be any unwanted surprises when you close out your shipboard account at the end of the cruise. Some of the traditional extras on noninclusive cruise lines – like bottled water, snacks, specialty coffee, gratuities or even beach equipment rentals on the line's private island – can add up quickly, diminishing the impact of your original fare savings. These are some of the all-inclusive cruise options:

• Viking Ocean Cruises:  On  Viking Ocean Cruises , travelers enjoy veranda staterooms; all meals (including alternative dining); beer, wine and soft drinks with lunch and dinner; one complimentary excursion in every port; and more, all in the base fares.
• Silversea Cruises:  Silversea Cruises  boasts door-to-door all-inclusive fares that encompass private transfers, gourmet meals, butler service, beverages and at least one complimentary excursion in every port.
• Regent Seven Seas Cruises:  Regent Seven Seas Cruises  offers two-for-one all-inclusive fares that also feature business class airfare on international flights, free two- or three-night land programs, a one-night pre-cruise hotel stay, free unlimited beverages and open bars, complimentary dining in specialty restaurants, unlimited Wi-Fi, shore excursions, prepaid gratuities, and more.

These lines also offer other discounts, and you may be able to combine them with exclusive offers that your travel advisor can access. Book an all-inclusive cruise on  GoToSea , a service of U.S. News.

Short cruises

Three- to five-night cruises generally equate to instant savings since they have lower fares than voyages lasting a week or longer. You may also be able to drive to the port, saving on airfare and other travel expenses. If you sail from ports in Florida or Texas, you can visit destinations in the Bahamas, the Caribbean and Mexico; ports of call may include stops at private, cruise line-owned islands like Royal Caribbean International's Perfect Day at CocoCay in the Bahamas.

If you're in the northeast U.S., you can book a short sailing to Bermuda  aboard a few different lines. Bermuda sailings with Carnival Cruises depart from New York City and Norfolk, Virginia, while Royal Caribbean sails to the nearby island from New York City and Baltimore .

From Los Angeles , embark on four-night Royal Caribbean cruises to Catalina Island and Ensenada, Mexico. With Celebrity Cruises , passengers can book six-night voyages that call on select California cities and Vancouver . The line also offers six-night, round-trip sailings from Los Angeles to Cabo San Lucas, Mexico.

Shorter itineraries are less expensive not only because of their length, but also because they typically don't use the cruise lines' newest, largest vessels. Still, some ships have been updated, including Royal Caribbean's Freedom of the Seas, which underwent a $116 million amplification in 2020. Its upcoming itineraries make short trips between Miami and the Bahamas.

Repositioning cruises

Repositioning cruises are another option for booking a great cruise deal. The price on these voyages is less expensive since most of the days are spent at sea as the ships move from one region of the world to another. The itineraries are longer, so you'll need to have a flexible schedule for extended travel.

One of the pros of booking these cruises is that you'll get to see incredible destinations like Hawaii, Australia, Fiji, Portugal, Spain and Italy – with considerable savings. If you enjoy spending time on board the ship and don't need a port of call to explore every day, then this may be a great cost-saving option to consider.

For example, Celebrity has a 16-night Mediterranean Passage Transatlantic sailing from Rome to Tampa, Florida , in November 2023. The sailing includes eight ports and nine sea days, with fares starting at $899 per person.

Want to plan a cruise? See the top cruises on  GoToSea , a service of U.S. News.

Email alerts

Sign up for email alerts to receive updates on discounted pricing through the cruise line websites, travel aggregators or your travel advisor. That way, you'll be the first to know about limited-time offers, last-minute deals or value-adds that may make the price just right.

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Gwen Pratesi has been an avid cruiser since her early 20s. She has sailed to destinations around the globe on nearly every type of cruise ship built, including the newest megaships, luxury yachts and traditional masted sailing ships. Most recently, she traveled on a small expedition vessel in Antarctica and crossed the notorious Drake Passage twice. She covers the travel and culinary industries for major publications, including U.S. News & World Report.

You may also be interested in:

• The Best Cruise Lines for the Money
• Cruise Packing List: Essentials to Bring
• How Much Does a Cruise Cost?
• The Trick to Finding Cheap Flights

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• Virgin Voyages

Last Minute Deals?

By -The-True-North- , September 29, 2023 in Virgin Voyages

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-The-True-North-

So now that the first interview with Virgin's new CEO,  Nirmal Saverimuttu is complete, it seems like the fun is over and prices will be raised.

Does that mean that Virgin will also have to move towards offering Last minute deals to fill ships in the future?

Right now, the price always fluctuates but always stays relatively the same. (These promos make it seem like a "sale", but then they increase the base fare.)

So, if prices do raise, will they also do last minute deals like other companies?

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I think the answer is "no one knows," but they are certainly trying to get every dollar out of booked. customers thru their bidding for upgrades program.  I don't know if they will move to a last 30 days "fire sale" as some other lines do.  Of course doing that strongly favors FL residents, who already get a 15% discount....as air fares increase as the flights near.

I kept an eye on some prices for MNVV in the past for sea terrace. I look at the final price on the summary page just under “Voyage total” and in big red text. This to be is the “true selling price”, it includes all “auto” promotional available to everyone, is inclusive of taxes, and frankly is what mr public currently pays. 

What I spotted was this voyage total slowly increase (might jump a bit more if the sea terrace sells out and you have to take central or xl). Then once high enough they bring in the lock it in rate. This returns the price back to earlier times but with slightly different conditions. Of course on earlier dates can get the pay in full discount. Once the lock it in rates appear there usually is a $300 premium negating the $300 discount MNVV gives.  

Interestingly when working out prices after the “voyage total” (e.g. 10% sailing club, 10%pay in full, $300 MNVV) I’ve always been charged less than I worked out. I always phone to book as usually doing back to back needing cabin selection or have multiple cabins and wanting them be next to each other. 

They have also been maintaining fare price per night relatively steady. What has changed is how they dish out free promo money. Most of this was originally sailor  loot. At some point they started to make it quasi all inclusive with the free bar tab on every booking. This seems to have stopped the “but no drinks package” feedback and worked well for booking. At the same time they have dialled back sailor loot ($100 Jlo, $50/$50 sail with friends, $200 during red hot booking month etc). The only big sailor loot for new bookings is the MNVV and that’s been boosted to $600 sailor loot. I can’t see that returning back to $300, it doesn’t explain well, and customers are not dumb, they know $300 spent onboard only costs VV cost price of goods.

They cracked something interesting in 2022 with a true no solo supplement but I think it interacted with other offers too well. Subsequent solo offers haven’t been that good but I can see this might be an area they may continue to experiment with. This might well be where they target offers.

MeganGC1983

On a call today, “they” said they aren’t interested in last minute deals. They don’t want to diminish the value. 

Back to school

3 minutes ago, MeganGC1983 said: On a call today, “they” said they aren’t interested in last minute deals. They don’t want to diminish the value. 

CruisingWalter

On 9/29/2023 at 7:47 PM, -The-True-North- said: So, if prices do raise, will they also do last minute deals like other companies?

Highly doubtful since currently the prices of the cruise fares close to sailing can be 1.5 - 3x what they were when the cruises first go on sale. Our thanksgiving cruise on Valiant was more than 2.5x the original cruise fare when it sold out. 

11 hours ago, CruisingWalter said:   Highly doubtful since currently the prices of the cruise fares close to sailing can be 1.5 - 3x what they were when the cruises first go on sale. Our thanksgiving cruise on Valiant was more than 2.5x the original cruise fare when it sold out. 

Each of our upcoming cruises has doubled in price since we booked them, and neither is full at this point. My impression is that rather than worry about filling every cabin, VV is perfectly happy to provide an excellent product for 2000 sailors. 

• 2 weeks later...

Morecruisesplz

On 10/4/2023 at 8:05 AM, cantgetin said: Each of our upcoming cruises has doubled in price since we booked them, and neither is full at this point. My impression is that rather than worry about filling every cabin, VV is perfectly happy to provide an excellent product for 2000 sailors. 

That can not make them money long term. If that were the case they would build ships with fewer cabins. Sailing with empty cabins is no way to build a railroad.

1 minute ago, fredmdcruisers said: That can not make them money long term. If that were the case they would build ships with fewer cabins. Sailing with empty cabins is no way to build a railroad.

I have to agree with this. In an industry where rev par is everything... Long term Shareholders will not be ok with ships being not filled.

Long term, they'd obviously like to fill almost every cabin, and indeed, SOME cruises are full.  Overall, they are moving in the right direction, but most are not full yet.  But they've come a long way from cruises with 600-800 sailors on board.  They are at or near 2000 on most sailings.  They do somewhat reduce prices on some sailings as the cruise date nears.  For instance, the October 29 sailing has decreased in price by about $1000, but that still puts it at double what it sold for a year ago.

So the best deal still seems to be on the day the sailings are announced.

50 minutes ago, -The-True-North- said: So the best deal still seems to be on the day the sailings are announced.

That has been our experience, or shortly thereafter.  A good TA will reprice your booking each time a "deal" comes out and can cancel and rebook if that is to your good.  All of my upcoming cruises were booked a year ago,  In one instance, I was able to cancel and rebook a few months later, resulting in a saving of almost $400 as well as adding a $600 bar tab. Two are now selling for nearly double what I paid.  My suggestion would be to book as early as possible, and then track prices.  

6 hours ago, fredmdcruisers said: That can not make them money long term. If that were the case they would build ships with fewer cabins. Sailing with empty cabins is no way to build a railroad.

Although ensuring you offer a good quality product will get people to return in the long-term. If they know that they can’t offer the level of service they wish when occupancy is above a certain level it makes sense to cap it slightly until they get the right number of staff. Also for costs it doesn’t make sense to have enough staff to serve 2700 people when most sailings have around 2000 on them, better to save staff costs slightly and aim to get 2200 on every sailing than some with 2700.

9 hours ago, jon81uk said: Although ensuring you offer a good quality product will get people to return in the long-term. If they know that they can’t offer the level of service they wish when occupancy is above a certain level it makes sense to cap it slightly until they get the right number of staff. Also for costs it doesn’t make sense to have enough staff to serve 2700 people when most sailings have around 2000 on them, better to save staff costs slightly and aim to get 2200 on every sailing than some with 2700.    

So they should work to get sales down to a level they can handle. In which business management class did they teach that nonsense?

9 minutes ago, fredmdcruisers said: So they should work to get sales down to a level they can handle. In which business management class did they teach that nonsense?

It’s common sense and it’s done by restaurants across the world. If you don’t have enough waitstaff then you don’t take the reservations. I’ve sat in many restaurants that were half empty because although they had enough chairs and table to accommodate more diners they didn’t have enough staff to serve any extra tables. But once word gets out the place is good they then have enough seating and can start hiring more staff and filling all the tables.

Comparing a ma and pa restaurant to a entire cruiseline?!

I'm sure even the owner would rather a full restaurant, than one at at best 70% sold.

13 minutes ago, -The-True-North- said: Comparing a ma and pa restaurant to a entire cruiseline?!   I'm sure even the owner would rather a full restaurant, than one at at best 70% sold.

18 minutes ago, -The-True-North- said: Comparing a ma and pa restaurant to a entire cruiseline?!   I'm sure even the owner would rather a full restaurant, than one at at best 70% sold.

But if you are staffed for 70% then service will suffer if you get 100% of guests turn up. Not comparing a ma and pa restaurant, but other big operators like Disney who are very fixated on their margin and not over staffing.   

Also it’s said that if you get a bad experience you will tell 15 people but get a good experience and you only tell one or two. Therefore it is good business sense to focus on giving a great experience to a small number of people who will come back and bring friends with them, instead of a crappy experience which will then be shared and put people off.

If my first cruise was terrible I wouldn’t have booked again, but I’ve now done six. So great service to smaller numbers is a great way to start a business and then once the good reviews start flowing (which they are judging by the number of awards VV have) you can then focus on getting more and more customers coming in and ensuring existing ones return.

I haven’t seen many last minute deals, I do track any cruises I book to see if the prices drop and reprice, so far it’s only happened once and it was $100 🤣

ine good thing about booking early is the pay in full discount 

1 hour ago, babycatsy said: I haven’t seen many last minute deals, I do track any cruises I book to see if the prices drop and reprice, so far it’s only happened once and it was $100 🤣   ine good thing about booking early is the pay in full discount 

I've had 2 cruises  with price drops such that I chose to "cancel and rebook" to get the drop.  One was not much: I traded a $135 discount for the loss of a bottle of bubbly.  The second time, I saved almost $400 AND added the $600 bar tab.  That was a "no brainer,"  In each case, these were well before PIF date.  Recently the cost of my upcoming cruise dropped.....I paid a total of $2400; the price rose to over $4K, and is now booking for $3400....so a discount from the high price, but still well above the early booking,

Agreed - but if the ship is selling well they won’t throw discounts at us! I def check cruise prices everytime there is a new promotion. 

Just to double check and ensure I have the process down correctly.

Day 1: on the day you make the booking, record the Big Red amount owning, or record the amount paid in full (keeping in mind all discounts)

Day 2 all the way through until 46 days before embarking: Watch the price of the cruise and compare the Big Red amount owning, or compare to what you paid in full (again, keeping in mind all discounts)

If the price is ever lower then what you paid, do we just need to contact Sailor Services and ask for a re-price?

Is this a cancellation, and an instant rebook?

If we used a MNVV, does that get voided?

Is the difference a credit or refund?

If we have additional loot, does that get lost?

3 hours ago, -The-True-North- said: Hey All,   Just to double check and ensure I have the process down correctly.   Day 1: on the day you make the booking, record the Big Red amount owning, or record the amount paid in full (keeping in mind all discounts)   Day 2 all the way through until 46 days before embarking: Watch the price of the cruise and compare the Big Red amount owning, or compare to what you paid in full (again, keeping in mind all discounts)   If the price is ever lower then what you paid, do we just need to contact Sailor Services and ask for a re-price?   Questions: Is this a cancellation, and an instant rebook? If we used a MNVV, does that get voided? Is the difference a credit or refund? If we have additional loot, does that get lost?

Well, I have it easier....I use a "first mate" (VV speak for travel agent) who evaluates the bookings of all her clients each time a VV price change comes out.  VV does make it easier than other lines in that their prices don't change daily.  If she sees a better deal, she will contact the client and deal with it.  but...

In most cases, it is a cancel and rebook.  It is not instant, and you do risk losing your cabin during the few minutes that the transition is in progress An MNVV can be transferred twice, so yes, a cancel and rebook does count as one of the transfers.  This is not a problem provided you don't exceed the limit of 2 transfers. The difference is a refund to the pay source you used (if you have only made a down payment on the first booking, that down payment will be applied to the new booking in full and the balance due will reflect the lower price Any additional loot will depend on the current booking.  Yes, you will lose all perks associated with the original booking and pick up any new ones associated with the new booking.  For example.  I had a booking made about a year ago.  It later came up with a lower price.  We had MNVV and a bottle of bubbly.  My agent did the "cancel and rebook" as this was the only option to get the new deal.  We were able to re-use the MNVV, so kept that $600 in loot and the $300 discount from the certificate.  We got an additional $396 off the cruise price AND added a $600 bar tab.  We did lose our bottle of bubbly.  We later had a $100 loot credit added because our TA got 10 cabins booked on that cruise, qualifying each of us for a "circle" credit.  We also kept our deep blue extras, and we did not lose our cabin (which we had selected specifically). VV does not do "re-faring" like some lines do.  They require a cancel and rebook.  You don't need to price check every day or week, but VV does post when their current "special" is ending.  That means new pricing will appear sometime in the few days after that date.  That's the time to look.  When a special ends, you never know what will come next or what cruises will be exempt from any new deal.  It is rare to see as much of a discount as we picked up, but stuff happens.  Other things that come and go have been stuff like 10% for loyalty people (this came out after we'd already saved our $396 and the price has again increased--the deal we now have is better than another rebooking).  THe 10% off for paying in full more than 180 days in advance is always out there.  FL resident discounts appear on some cruises if you qualify.....

Next Aprils Miami to Med transatlantic is up to £7500 now from around £2000 when it first went on sale! So prices are definitely going up.

1 hour ago, jon81uk said: Next Aprils Miami to Med transatlantic is up to £7500 now from around £2000 when it first went on sale! So prices are definitely going up.

I didn't realize it was THAT high now....but we got it for $2100 USD.  I just looked--the same category (Sea Terrace) that we booked is now over $9K.  Could shave off a bit with the MNVV and PIF TODAY (that PIF discount goes away tomorrow!), but still, YIKES!

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U.S. Virgin Islands Cruises

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Luxury Cruises to the U.S. Virgin Islands

U.S. Virgin Islands cruises take you to blissful tropical destinations with white-sand beaches, fine snorkeling, and pristine water in endless shades of blue. The USVI offers endless adventures in its national parks, delicious local rum, picturesque hiking trails, and gorgeous Caribbean scenery.

On cruises to the U.S. Virgin Islands, you can swim among sea turtles and explore colorful coral reefs. Spend the day in Charlotte Amalie, known for its Danish colonial architecture and duty-free shopping, and hike to the top of Skyline Drive for incredible views. Enjoy a rum tasting on St. Thomas before you spend the afternoon relaxing on the sands at Magens Bay Beach. Take a catamaran trip to much quieter St. John for snorkeling off Honeymoon Beach, famous for its turquoise waters and palm-fringed sandy shore.

U.S. Virgin Islands Cruise Highlights

Beaches & bays.

The U.S. Virgin Islands are home to some of the best beaches in the Caribbean. St. John’s Trunk Bay is known for its clear turquoise waters and fascinating snorkel trail. Here, underwater signs tell you about the reef creatures that live here, making this a great trip for families. Heart-shaped Magens Bay on St. Thomas is popular for its white-sand shores and lush greenery.

Snorkeling & Scuba Diving

Off the shores of the beaches of the U.S. Virgin Islands, you'll find excellent snorkeling and scuba diving. The U.S. Virgin Islands are home to hundreds of species of beautiful tropical fish like angelfish, parrotfish, and blue tang, which make for great underwater viewing. You can even find sea turtles drifting through the deep blue and rays skimming across the seabed. You may spot dolphins, too, particularly during the winter months.

St. Thomas has some of the best duty-free shopping in the world. Charlotte Amalie is lined with boutiques and souvenir shops. As well as searching for duty-free bargains, shop for handmade leather sandals, rum, spicy sauces, and jewelry made from sea glass. You can even buy ancient coins recovered from shipwrecks. On the island of St. John, browse through the shops in Cruz Bay to find local artisan crafts like wood carvings, Moko Jumbie dolls, jewelry, and natural soaps.

Featured U.S. Virgin Islands Cruise Port

St. Thomas offers plenty to see and do. Take a trip to Mountain Top, overlooking Magens Bay, and try to identify the 15 hilly islands you can see from here. Take a picnic to serene Smith Bay Beach, or join a guided culinary tour of Charlotte Amalie to taste authentic Caribbean flavors. Head up the Skyride gondola and sample a Bushwhacker rum cocktail, or join a catamaran cruise across to St. John and look for sea turtles as you snorkel Trunk Bay.

U.S. Virgin Islands Cruise Itineraries

Cruises to the U.S. Virgin Islands last for seven to ten nights. Cruises depart from Fort Lauderdale and include itineraries that stop in Charlotte Amalie as well as other Caribbean ports like Antigua, Puerto Rico, St. Maarten, Puerto Plata, and Nassau in the Bahamas.

Itineraries

Why cruise to the u.s. virgin islands with celebrity cruises.

A cruise to the U.S. Virgin Islands with Celebrity brings you the best in luxury travel, no matter which itinerary you choose. You'll enjoy world-class dining, contemporary accommodation, and unparalleled service. Spend a quiet afternoon by the pool at the adults-only Solarium. Treat yourself to a delicious cocktail at the Martini Bar. Choose The Retreat, a tranquil oasis of exclusive dining, a private lounge, and suite accommodation.

Your U.S. Virgin Islands cruise will take you to the capital city of Charlotte Amalie on St. Thomas, where you can explore the 17th-century Fort Christian, stroll along the lovely waterfront, or do some duty-free shopping. Sleepy St. John is an easy boat journey away, should you want to get away from it all. Get ready to rejuvenate mind and body in every sense on a luxury cruise with Celebrity.

View All US Virgin Islands Cruises

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Cruises from United States to the Virgin Islands, U.S.

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Priced per person, based on 2 guests. Est. tax/fees of $138 pp not included.

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Find the best cruise vacation for you

How can i find a cheap cruise.

Cheap cruise deals are fairly easy to find in most cases, and you can begin by considering what kind of features and itinerary you want. The more simplistic the experience is, the cheaper it is in general. On Expedia.com, you can filter for specific features and sort your results by price. By mixing and matching certain features, unforgettable experiences may be available with discount cruises. For example, booking a cruise with stunning restaurants and live performances while opting for an inside cabin without an ocean view window or balcony could be ideal for a traveler who doesn't plan on spending much time in their cabin anyways

What is the cheapest month to take a cruise?

The cheapest month to take a cruise varies based on your destination and the cruise line company that runs the ship. A Caribbean cruise , for example, is generally cheapest in the late summer and early fall since it's the local hurricane season.

Can I cancel my cruise booking?

Yes, you can cancel, but there may be fees for canceling depending on how far in advance you cancel and what kind of booking you have. You can check the specific cruise lines’ cancellation policies in your itinerary on Expedia.com.

Are river cruises worth the money?

River cruises are quite relaxing, with much more varied scenery than you'd experience on an ocean cruise. These ships often also feature several stops along the river, so passengers can enjoy a greater variety of destinations to explore. Viking river cruises are especially adept at providing this unforgettable experience.

What cruises are best for families?

The best family cruises in 2024 / 2025 tend to be Disney cruises with plenty of offerings for kids and adults alike, though MSC cruises are known for their iconic Children Cruise Free promotion. Disney cruises, specifically, are essentially a Disney theme park on a boat with live shows, rides, and attractions with your kids' favorite characters.

How much does a cruise ship cost?

Cruise prices can vary quite a bit, with cheap cruises and especially luxurious all-inclusive cruises available. Budget lines can offer cruise tickets as low as $50 per night in some cases, while the more high-end experiences can reach up to $1,000 per night and more.

What are some of the best cruise lines?

Several different cruise lines have a lot to offer, such as Viking cruises , which are known for traversing oceans and rivers with a style that blends outdoor and indoor splendor. Celebrity cruise line is more upscale with luxurious features like WiFi, included beverages, champagne, and suites with panoramic views. Other top cruise lines include Royal Caribbean International , Carnival Cruise , Disney Cruise , and Norwegian Cruise .

How far in advance do you need to book a cruise?

It's generally best to book a cruise about 6 to 12 months before your cruise departure. That's the safest way to balance availability and affordability. Technically, you can book earlier or later than that, with some last-minute cruise deals occasionally available up to a weekbefore cruise departure.

Are cruise trips affordable?

They can be, and it's especially simple to search for more affordable cruises with Expedia.com. Not only can you filter by cruise length, cruise line, and cabin experience, but you may also sort your results by price to put the more affordable options first on your search results page.

What is it like to go on a cruise?

A cruise is generally designed to offer the most relaxing experience possible. Despite the size of the ship, it's possible to feel the wave. Many passengers report that the movements help them sleep. Additionally, many fun cruises offer live stage performances, several restaurants, and shopping opportunities. When the ship is in international waters, you may even be able to enjoy a bit of tax-free shopping.

Are cruises a good way to travel?

Cruise travel is great if you're looking for some varied fun. Compared to a plane or a train, cruises have their own attractions and can be considered an integral part of cruise vacations. Plus, a cruise can hit several different destinations as well, with plenty of time to enjoy the cruise and scenic locales. It's certainly worth it for a unique experience no other method of travel can match.

Which cruise line is the cheapest?

The actual cheapest cruise available depends on a variety of different factors. Still, Carnival Cruise tends to be very affordable overall, most of the time with great options like the Carnival Sunrise and Carnival Horizon . Royal Caribbean is also another fantastic cruise line offering great deals if you are watching your budget.

How can I get the best cruise deals in 2024 / 2025?

If you're looking for some of the best cruise deals, booking through Expedia.com makes it easy since you can sort your cruise search results by price and have access to special deals. One Key members can earn  OneKeyCash  on all eligible bookings and get instant discounts with Member Prices. Sign up today!

What do I need to know when I book a cruise?

To book a cruise, you'll need to know where you'll be setting off from and where you'll be going, in addition to how many people will be with you and the features of the specific cruise you book. Keep in mind that you'll want to factor in spending money in your budget for the cruise's restaurants and shops in most cases.

Where should I go on a cruise in 2024 / 2025?

Plenty of incredible cruise destinations are accessible such as cruises to the Bahamas and cruises to Mexico . You may also be interested in cruises to Alaska or cruises to Europe for something outside of the Caribbean.

What countries are best to visit by cruise ship?

A lot of countries are accessible via a cruise, but the best include a cruise to Australia . However, a cruise to Australia is quite a long trip at sea and really allows you to take in everything the cruise ship has to offer.

Can I get last-minute cruise deals?

Yes, last-minute cruise deals are often available, and you can find them on Expedia.com by inputting your travel dates in your search and sorting your results by price. The deals will automatically be applied to the price estimates so that the cheapest estimates will show up first on your search results page.

Are cruises all-inclusive?

Cruises aren't always all-inclusive, but they can be. If you're interested in all-inclusive cruises, you can activate a search filter for it to ensure your search results only show cruises that meet your all-inclusive standard.

Is food free on a cruise?

Food is sometimes free on a cruise, but there are often specialty restaurants that aren't included with the general booking that you'll have to pay for separately. Check the details of each cruise before you book in the "What's included" section after clicking the cruise on your search results page.

What cruise lines are adults only?

Several lines offer adults-only cruise experiences, including Viking cruises , Carnival cruises , and Princess cruises . With an adults-only cruise, you can relax in a tranquil and laid-back setting without kids running around and enjoy all the cocktails you want.

What cruise lines are considered to be the most luxurious?

Viking cruises are considered exceptionally luxurious, with smaller ships and larger cabins that make them feel more exclusive, but Celebrity cruises offer luxury cruise lines too. Booking a luxury cruise means you can expect high-end amenities including gourmet restaurants, sizable suites, top-tier performances, massive pools, and much more.

What are the best cruises for couples?

Viking Cruises have much to offer for a more romantic experience. Holland America Line cruises can be quite refined and romantic as well, with an adult-oriented experience that's sophisticated rather than rowdy. Romantic cruises offer exceptional service as well as cozy suites for you and your partner to enjoy that's complemented by delicious food often themed around the cruise destination.

Why should I go on a cruise for my honeymoon?

Going on a cruise is a great way for you and your new spouse to be pampered with luxury while also being able to explore a new destination. Whether you're taking a cruise to Hawaii or a cruise to Bermuda , a particularly romantic experience is almost guaranteed thanks to the sheer number of things to do.

Are there any Christmas cruises?

Yes, quite a few cruise lines operate around Christmas, and you can find them easily by entering travel dates around Christmas into your 2024 cruise search. Some of the most popular Christmas cruises are available with Carnival and Disney.

Do I need a passport to go on a cruise?

Whether or not you need a passport depends on where you're going and the kind of cruise it is. Any US territory like Bermuda and Puerto Rico won't require a passport, of course, but you also don't need one if you're on a closed-loop cruise. This is a cruise that begins and ends at a US cruise terminal, even if there are stops in other countries on the way.

Why should I book a cruise with Expedia.com?

Booking a cruise with Expedia.com makes it easy to find a cruise type that works best for you. You can use the cruise finder and sort by cruise line, type, destination, length, and itinerary. One Key members also earn OneKeyCash on all eligible bookings that can be used to save on future eligible trips.

What happens if a cruise is canceled?

Every cruise has a different cancellation policy, but generally, passengers are entitled to either a full refund or a credit for a future cruise at a later date. Remember that they may automatically change your booking to their rescheduled date, so you may have to contact them if that date doesn't work for your schedule.

*OneKeyCash is not redeemable for cash and can only be used on Expedia,  Hotels.com  and Vrbo.

Other vacations you might like

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Top Cruise Destinations

• Cruises to Alaska
• Cruises to Bahamas
• Cruises to Caribbean
• Cruises to Europe
• Cruises to Hawaii
• Cruises to Mexico

Top US Cruise Departure Ports

• Cruises from Boston
• Cruises from Fort Lauderdale
• Cruises from Galveston
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• Cruises from Port Canaveral
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• Cruises from Seattle
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Top Cruise Lines

• Holland America Line

Last-Minute All-Inclusive Cruises

H aven’t quite gotten over the winter blues? Throw caution to the wind and embark on a last-minute all-inclusive cruise adventure! Find unbeatable deals and new experiences by taking a trip on the open ocean. Discover delicious cuisine and all-inclusive amenities aboard a luxurious cruise ship. Meet new people or have an unbelievable time with your loved ones. Here’s what you’ll find when searching for last-minute cruises.

The Advantages of Last-Minute All-Inclusive Cruises

1. unbeatable deals.

One of the most enticing aspects of last-minute all-inclusive cruises is the potential for unbeatable deals. As departure dates draw near, cruise lines often reduce prices to fill remaining cabins. This opens up opportunities for savvy travelers to enjoy luxurious voyages at a fraction of the original cost. The spontaneity of last-minute bookings can lead to surprising affordability, making cruising accessible to a wider range of individuals.

2. Flexibility in Itineraries

Last-minute cruises offer a level of flexibility that appeals to those with unpredictable schedules or a desire to explore without a set plan. After all, living on a schedule can be tiresome after a while. With numerous cruise itineraries available, ranging from tropical paradises to historic European cities, spontaneous travelers can choose from a variety of destinations that match their interests.

3. Avoiding Overplanning Stress

Planning a vacation can sometimes be stressful, with detailed itineraries, accommodation arrangements, and sightseeing plans. Last-minute all-inclusive cruises, however, eliminate the need for extensive pre-trip planning. This reduces pressure on travelers trying to save money while also trying to get the most out of their time off.  And for retirees, this makes for a more relaxing experience overall.

Where to Find Last-Minute Cruise Deals

Several cruise lines are known for offering attractive last-minute cruise deals to fill remaining cabins. Keep in mind that availability can vary based on the specific cruise, departure date, and destination. Here are some popular cruise lines that often provide last-minute deals.

Royal Caribbean International

Royal Caribbean frequently offers last-minute cruise deals on a variety of itineraries. Last-minute cruise deals include a three-night trip from Florida to the Bahamas for under $300 or a 13-night cruise from Barcelona for under $500. The all-inclusive cruise features free dining options, free activities, and other amenities.

Carnival Cruise

Carnival is known for its fun and lively atmosphere. It also offers a ton of excellent last-minute cruise deals, including a 4-Day Baja Mexico cruise from Long Beach, California for under $250 and a 3-day getaway from Brisbane, Australia.

Princess Cruises

With a reputation for a more refined experience, Princess Cruises may offer last-minute promotions. Keep an eye on their website or work with travel agencies that specialize in cruise deals. It’s a particularly popular option if you are looking for an Alaskan cruise.

Unbeatable deals and new experiences await aboard a last-minute all-inclusive cruise. Save time and money by booking a trip with any one of the cruises mentioned above. You can also search for deals using travel booking websites like Expedia, Vacations to Go, or Cruises.com, where you’ll find specials throughout the year. Finally, consider booking off-peak season to save even more money. Happy voyages!