Interior staterooms are the least expensive accommodations on a cruise ship. Purchasing a "guarantee" stateroom means that the cabin will be assigned at the Cruise Line's discretion. If the cruise line oversells that stateroom category, those with "guarantee" staterooms will be given an upgrade. "Guarantee" passengers may end up with a nicer interior stateroom, an ocean view stateroom or even a balcony.
Like airfare, cruise rates vary based on destination and the time of year. Summer months and holiday periods are considered "high season" and boast the most expensive cruise fares. During fall and winter months, cruise lines offer discounted cruises for many destinations, including the Caribbean and Mexico.
Most cruise lines offer discounts for people who book six months or more in advance of a cruise.
Guests who are flexible about the destination may search online for last-minute cruise deals. Cruise lines often run last-minute online cruise sales anywhere from 14 to 90 days prior to sailing.
The more demand for a particular ship, the more a cruise line can charge. Instead, travelers can opt for an older ship such as the Norwegian Dawn, which offers a nine-day New Year's Eve cruise as low as $699 (in 2010).
Travel agencies that specialize in marketing cruises have the ability to get group discount pricing for their customers, even if the customers travel solo. Some travel agents are able to offer other incentives, including on-board credits and coupon booklets in addition to a lower cruise fare.
