Cruise Wave Season 2027: When to Book for the Best Deals
Quick answer: Wave season is the cruise industry's biggest sale period. It traditionally runs January through March, but many cruise lines now start their offers in November, right after Black Friday. If you want the best cabin and the best perks, start planning now.
If you have been thinking about a cruise for 2027, the next few months matter more than any other time of year. Here is what wave season is, what kinds of deals show up, and how I help clients get the most out of it.
What is wave season?
Wave season is the window when cruise lines roll out their strongest promotions of the year. The goal is simple: fill as many cabins as possible for the year ahead. The timing makes sense. After the holidays, families sit down with a fresh calendar, know their vacation days, and start dreaming about summer.
Historically it ran from January to March. Today, many lines blend their Black Friday and Cyber Monday sales straight into wave offers, so the deals really start in late November.
What deals can you expect?
Offers change by cruise line and week, but these are the usual types:
Reduced deposits, sometimes as low as $49 to $99 per person
Discounted fares, often a percentage off or dollars off per cabin
Onboard credit to spend on drinks, spa or excursions
Free or discounted extras like drink packages, Wi-Fi or prepaid gratuities
Cabin upgrades, such as inside to balcony for a small fee
Free or reduced fares for third and fourth guests, which helps families most
Is the cheapest price always the best deal?
No. A low fare with no perks can cost more than a slightly higher fare that includes a drink package and gratuities. I compare the total cost of the trip, not just the headline price. On a 7-night cruise, gratuities alone run about $120 to $140 per person, and a drink package can add $500 or more. A promo that covers one of those is often worth more than $200 off the fare.
When should you book?
Summer 2027 and spring break 2027: Book during wave season or sooner. These sailings sell out first, especially balconies and family cabins.
Fall and holiday 2027: Wave season is still a great time, and you will have the widest choice of ships.
New ships and new private destinations: Book early. Carnival Festivale debuts in 2027, and Royal Caribbean's Royal Beach Club Cozumel is set to open December 31, 2026. New experiences fill fast.
What if the price drops after I book?
This is one of the biggest advantages of booking with a travel advisor. Many fares can be repriced if a better promotion comes out before final payment. I watch my clients' bookings and request adjustments when prices drop or a better perk appears. You do not have to check every day. I do it for you.
Five tips to make the most of wave season
Know your must-haves before the sales start. Pick your travel dates, cabin type and budget so you can act fast.
Compare the total cost. Add gratuities, drinks, Wi-Fi and excursions to every quote.
Lock in with a low deposit. A refundable deposit holds your cabin while you finalize details.
Do not wait for a "better" deal. The best offers usually come early in the season, and the best cabins go first.
Use a travel advisor. It costs nothing extra, and you get someone watching your price.
Frequently asked questions
When does wave season 2027 start? Officially in January, but many cruise lines begin wave-style offers in late November alongside Black Friday sales.
When does wave season end? Most promotions wrap up by March 31, though some lines extend select offers.
Is wave season the cheapest time to cruise? It is the best time to book, not necessarily to sail. You book during wave season for trips later in the year or the next year.
Can I get wave season perks through a travel agent? Yes. Advisors get the same promotions, and some add extra perks like onboard credit.
Ready to grab a wave season deal? I'm Glenn, a veteran-owned travel advisor with SIX18 Travel in Swansea, Illinois. I'll compare cruise lines, watch for price drops and lock in the best perks for your 2027 cruise, at no extra cost to you. Get your free quote or call or text (618) 772-9206.
Glenn Sunnquist
Owner, SIX18 Travel LLC
Certified Travel Advisor
CLIA Member
Cruise & Resort Vacation Specialist
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