Last-minute travel requires flexibility from travelers. If you have your heart set on cruising to a particular destination, be flexible on your dates. If you have specific dates in mind, be flexible on the destination. The more flexibility you have, the better your chances are of finding a great last-minute deal.
Search for your last-minute cruise from the end of August to Christmas, when kids are back in school. The demand this time of the year is lower, which allows cruise companies to offer discounted cruises that can be further discounted for last-minute travel deals.
Look for last-minute cruise deals that include airfare and ground transportation to and from the destination airport. You might find a stellar last-minute cruise deal, but the air and ground transportation costs could eat away at your savings quickly if you do not research this part of your trip.
Each cruise line has a last-minute deals page on its website. Compare rates between cruise lines to find the best last-minute deal for you. Some of the cruise lines offer discounts for students, senior citizens and military personnel, but the discounts are not always published. Call the cruise line and inquire about the discounts.