Do Cruise Lines Have a Black Friday Sale This Year

Yes, many major cruise lines are offering Black Friday deals this year, with deep discounts on 2024 sailings, free upgrades, and onboard credit promotions. From Carnival to Royal Caribbean, savvy travelers can save hundreds by booking during limited-time holiday sales events.

Key Takeaways

• Yes, most cruise lines offer Black Friday deals: Look for discounts on 2024 sailings.
• Book early for best savings: Top cabins and itineraries sell out fast.
• Compare bundled offers: Free upgrades and onboard credit add real value.
• Check for price-match guarantees: Avoid post-purchase regret if prices drop later.
• Smaller lines have unique deals: Boutique brands often provide deeper discounts.
• Act quickly: Most promotions last only 4–7 days around Black Friday.

Do Cruise Lines Have a Black Friday Sale This Year?

As the holiday season approaches, savvy travelers begin to wonder: Do cruise lines have a Black Friday sale this year? The answer is a resounding yes—but with nuances. Black Friday, traditionally known for doorbuster electronics and retail discounts, has expanded into the travel industry, including cruise vacations. Cruise lines have recognized the value of capitalizing on the post-Thanksgiving shopping frenzy to boost bookings for the upcoming year. From early-bird promotions to last-minute flash deals, the cruise industry now embraces Black Friday as a pivotal moment to attract new customers and reward loyal cruisers.

But it’s not just about slashed prices. Cruise lines use Black Friday to offer value-added incentives that go beyond simple fare reductions. These may include onboard credits, free upgrades, waived gratuities, and even complimentary specialty dining. Whether you’re a first-time cruiser or a seasoned ocean traveler, understanding how and when cruise lines participate in Black Friday sales can help you secure an unforgettable vacation at a fraction of the regular cost. In this guide, we’ll explore the landscape of cruise Black Friday deals, what to expect in 2024, and how to make the most of these limited-time offers.

Why Cruise Lines Participate in Black Friday Sales

The Shift in Travel Booking Behavior

Over the past decade, consumer behavior has shifted dramatically. More travelers now book vacations online, and digital marketing has made it easier than ever for cruise lines to reach global audiences. Black Friday has evolved from a one-day retail event into a multi-week shopping and booking season, starting as early as mid-November and often extending into Cyber Monday and beyond. Cruise lines leverage this period to fill cabins for future sailings, especially during off-peak seasons like January through April.

According to the Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA), over 70% of cruise bookings are made online, and peak booking windows occur in January (Wave Season) and November (Black Friday). By participating in Black Friday, cruise brands can capture early demand, reduce marketing costs, and create buzz around new itineraries or ships. This timing also aligns with the end of the year, when many travelers receive bonuses or have unused vacation days, making them more likely to splurge on a cruise.

Strategic Business Benefits

From a business standpoint, Black Friday offers several advantages to cruise lines:

• Inventory Management: Cruise lines can fill unsold cabins on specific sailings, reducing the risk of operating near-empty ships.
• Customer Acquisition: Attracting first-time cruisers with low-risk, high-value deals helps build long-term brand loyalty.
• Data Collection: Promotions often require email sign-ups, allowing cruise lines to grow their marketing databases for future campaigns.
• Competitive Edge: In a crowded market, Black Friday deals help brands stand out. For example, Norwegian Cruise Line’s “Free at Sea” promotion has become a Black Friday staple, offering free drink packages, specialty dining, and shore excursions.

Moreover, cruise lines use Black Friday to promote new ships and destinations. For instance, Royal Caribbean often unveils Black Friday deals for its newest vessels, like the Icon of the Seas, to generate excitement and secure early bookings.

Top Cruise Lines Offering Black Friday Deals in 2024

Royal Caribbean International

Royal Caribbean is a leader in Black Friday promotions, consistently offering up to $400 in onboard credit per stateroom, 50% off second guest fares, and free upgrades. In 2024, expect deals on Caribbean, Alaska, and Mediterranean sailings. A standout offer is the “Buy One, Get One 75% Off” promotion, which applies to balcony and suite categories. For example, a 7-night Eastern Caribbean cruise from Miami could start at $899 per person, with the second guest paying just $225.

Pro Tip: Royal Caribbean often releases exclusive deals for loyalty members (Crown & Anchor Society) 24 hours before the general public. Sign up early to access these perks.

Carnival Cruise Line

Carnival’s “Black Friday Blowout” is known for its simplicity and value. In 2023, the line offered $100–$300 onboard credit per stateroom, free upgrades, and reduced deposits ($50 per person). For 2024, Carnival plans to expand its Black Friday sale to include more short-haul sailings (3–5 nights) from ports like Galveston, Tampa, and Jacksonville. A 4-night Bahamas cruise from Miami could be available for as low as $399 per person, with kids sailing free on select dates.

Key Insight: Carnival’s deals often include “Free Fun” packages, covering Wi-Fi, drink packages, and shore excursions for a flat fee—ideal for budget-conscious families.

Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL)

NCL’s “Free at Sea” promotion is a Black Friday favorite. In 2024, expect the return of five free perks: open bar, specialty dining, Wi-Fi, shore excursion credits, and a free 3rd/4th guest. These perks can save a family of four over $1,200. For example, a 10-night Alaska cruise from Seattle might start at $1,199 per person, with the third and fourth guests sailing free.

Bonus: NCL often bundles Black Friday deals with limited-time airfare credits (up to $200 per person) when booking through their website.

Princess Cruises

Princess focuses on luxury and experience-driven deals. In 2024, look for “Princess Plus” packages at a 50% discount, including premium drinks, Wi-Fi, and gratuities. A 12-night Panama Canal cruise could offer $300 onboard credit and a free balcony upgrade. Princess also partners with airlines for bundled air-inclusive deals, reducing total trip costs.

Disney Cruise Line

Disney’s Black Friday deals are more limited but highly sought after. In 2023, they offered $100 onboard credit per stateroom and waived booking fees. For 2024, expect similar promotions, with a focus on Caribbean and Bahamian sailings. While Disney rarely discounts base fares, the added credits and perks make these deals competitive.

Smaller & Luxury Lines (Celebrity, Viking, Holland America)

Luxury lines like Celebrity and Viking offer exclusive Black Friday perks, such as free shore excursions, spa credits, or cabin upgrades. For example, Viking’s “Black Friday Bonus” might include a $100 shipboard credit and a free excursion on a 7-night European river cruise. Holland America often pairs deals with free airfare from select cities.

How to Find the Best Cruise Black Friday Deals

Start Early and Set Alerts

Black Friday cruise deals often begin as early as November 1. Sign up for email alerts from cruise lines, travel agents, and deal aggregators like Cruise Critic or Vacations To Go. These platforms send real-time notifications when promotions go live. For example, Royal Caribbean’s 2023 Black Friday sale started on November 15, with loyalty members getting 24-hour early access.

Pro Tip: Create a spreadsheet to track deals, including:

• Base fare
• Onboard credit amount
• Free perks (e.g., Wi-Fi, dining)
• Deposit requirements
• Exclusions (e.g., peak dates, suite categories)

Use a Travel Agent or Booking Site

Travel agents often have exclusive access to unpublished deals. For instance, a Virtuoso-affiliated agent might offer a free suite upgrade or $500 air credit on a luxury cruise. Booking sites like Expedia, Costco Travel, and Cruises.com also bundle Black Friday promotions with additional perks. Costco, for example, offers free Costco Shop Cards (e.g., $200 for a $2,000 booking).

Example: In 2023, a Costco member booking a 7-night Alaska cruise through Costco Travel received a $250 Shop Card, $150 onboard credit, and free Wi-Fi—stacking value beyond the base fare.

Compare “Total Value,” Not Just Price

A $500 cruise with no onboard credit may cost more than a $700 cruise with $300 in free perks. Calculate the total out-of-pocket cost, including:

• Base fare
• Gratuities
• Drinks and dining
• Excursions
• Wi-Fi

For example, a $899 NCL cruise with “Free at Sea” might cover $1,200 in extras, while a $799 Carnival cruise without perks could require $400 in additional spending.

Book Flexible Dates and Itineraries

Black Friday deals are often tied to specific sailings and departure dates. To maximize savings, be flexible. A 7-night Caribbean cruise in January might be $300 cheaper than the same itinerary in December. Use cruise line filters to compare prices across months.

What to Watch Out For: Hidden Costs and Exclusions

Fine Print and Restrictions

Not all Black Friday deals are created equal. Read the terms carefully:

• Peak Dates Excluded: Holidays, summer, and school breaks may not qualify for discounts.
• Cabin Categories Limited: Deals might apply only to interior or oceanview rooms, not balconies or suites.
• Non-Refundable Deposits: Some promotions require full payment upfront or impose strict cancellation fees.
• Airfare Not Included: “Free airfare” offers often have blackout dates or require specific airports.

Example: A “Buy One, Get One 50% Off” deal might exclude Alaska sailings in July or Mediterranean cruises in August.

Onboard Credit vs. Actual Savings

Onboard credit (OBC) is valuable but has limitations. It’s usually non-transferable, non-refundable, and expires if unused. Calculate how much you’d realistically spend onboard before assuming the OBC covers your costs. For a family of four, $200 OBC might cover gratuities but not a specialty dining package or spa treatment.

Gratuities and Service Fees

Many deals don’t include gratuities, which can add $15–$20 per person, per day. Factor this into your budget. Some lines, like Princess, include gratuities in their “Princess Plus” packages.

Travel Insurance Considerations

Black Friday deals often have strict cancellation policies. Purchase travel insurance to protect against unforeseen changes. Look for policies that cover “Cancel for Any Reason” (CFAR) if flexibility is a priority.

Black Friday Cruise Deals: 2024 Predictions and Trends

Extended Sale Periods

Expect Black Friday deals to start as early as October 2024, with “Early Bird” promotions targeting holiday shoppers. Some lines may extend sales into December, calling it “Cyber Month.”

Focus on Sustainability and Wellness

Newer ships (e.g., MSC’s World Europa) will highlight eco-friendly features in their deals. Look for discounts on wellness-themed cruises, including yoga retreats, spa credits, and plant-based dining options.

More Air-Inclusive Packages

To compete with all-inclusive resorts, cruise lines will bundle free or discounted airfare with Black Friday bookings. For example, a 7-night Caribbean cruise from New York might include round-trip flights for $100 per person.

Personalized Offers via AI

Using customer data, cruise lines may send tailored promotions based on past bookings, preferences, and loyalty tier. A repeat cruiser might receive an email with a free balcony upgrade, while a first-timer gets a drink package.

Data Table: 2023 Black Friday Cruise Deals (Comparison)

Cruise Line	Base Fare Discount	Onboard Credit	Free Perks	Best For
Royal Caribbean	Up to 30% off	$400 per stateroom	Free upgrade, 50% off 2nd guest	Families, short Caribbean trips
Carnival	Kids sail free	$100–$300	Free Fun package (drinks, Wi-Fi)	Budget travelers, 3–5 night cruises
Norwegian	BOGO 75% off	$200	Open bar, specialty dining, Wi-Fi	Foodies, couples, longer voyages
Princess	50% off Princess Plus	$300	Free balcony upgrade, air credit	Luxury seekers, Alaska/Canal cruises
Disney	No base discount	$100	Waived booking fees	Families with kids, themed cruises

Maximizing Your Savings: Tips for Booking a Black Friday Cruise

Book Early and Rebook if Prices Drop

Most cruise lines allow rebooking within a grace period (e.g., 48 hours) if a better deal appears. Book early to secure your preferred cabin, then monitor prices. If the fare drops, contact the cruise line or your agent to adjust your booking.

Leverage Loyalty Programs

Join cruise line loyalty programs (e.g., Carnival’s VIFP, Royal Caribbean’s Crown & Anchor) to access exclusive deals, priority boarding, and free upgrades. Silver-tier members or higher often get early access to sales.

Combine Deals Strategically

Stack multiple promotions when possible. For example:

• Book a NCL “Free at Sea” cruise during Black Friday
• Add a Costco Travel booking for a $200 Shop Card
• Use a credit card that offers 5x points on travel

This could save a family of four over $2,000.

Consider Repositioning Cruises

These one-way sailings (e.g., from Miami to Barcelona) are often 50–70% cheaper than round-trip cruises. Black Friday is a great time to book them, as they’re less in demand.

Plan for 2025 and Beyond

Many 2024 Black Friday deals apply to sailings in 2025–2026. If you’re flexible, book a future cruise now at today’s prices to lock in savings.

As we’ve explored, yes, cruise lines absolutely have Black Friday sales—and 2024 promises to be bigger than ever. From Royal Caribbean’s generous onboard credits to NCL’s “Free at Sea” perks, there’s no shortage of ways to save. But success requires strategy: start early, compare total value, read the fine print, and leverage loyalty programs. Whether you’re dreaming of a Caribbean getaway, an Alaska adventure, or a European river cruise, Black Friday is your golden ticket to an unforgettable voyage at an unbeatable price. So set your alerts, sharpen your budgeting skills, and get ready to sail into the holidays with the best deal of the year.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do cruise lines have a Black Friday sale this year?

Yes, most major cruise lines like Royal Caribbean, Carnival, and Norwegian offer Black Friday deals each year. These promotions typically include discounted fares, onboard credits, and free upgrades.

What kind of Black Friday cruise deals can I expect?

Black Friday cruise sales often feature up to 50% off base fares, BOGO (Buy One, Get One) offers, free gratuities, and reduced deposits. Some lines may also include bonus onboard spending or complimentary drink packages.

When do cruise lines start their Black Friday sales?

Most cruise lines launch their Black Friday sale in late November, starting as early as the Monday before Thanksgiving. However, some brands may offer early-bird promotions in October or extend deals through Cyber Monday.

Are Black Friday cruise deals better than other seasonal sales?

Black Friday cruise deals are often among the best of the year, with deeper discounts and more perks than standard promotions. However, it’s worth comparing them to last-minute deals or holiday sales for specific itineraries.

Can I combine cruise line Black Friday deals with other discounts?

Some cruise lines allow stacking Black Friday promotions with loyalty program perks, group rates, or past-guest discounts. Always check the terms and conditions or ask a travel agent for details.

Do luxury cruise lines offer Black Friday sales?

Even luxury cruise lines like Regent Seven Seas or Oceania occasionally participate in Black Friday with exclusive offers. These may include free airfare, cabin upgrades, or reduced single supplements.