Do Cruise Lines Have Black Friday Sales 2015 Find Out Now

Yes, many cruise lines offered Black Friday sales in 2015, with major brands like Carnival, Royal Caribbean, and Norwegian Cruise Line slashing prices, waiving fees, and adding onboard credits to capitalize on the holiday shopping frenzy. Travelers who booked early scored deep discounts on 2016 sailings, proving that cruise deals weren’t just for retail—they were a savvy way to save big on vacations.

Key Takeaways

• Yes, cruise lines offered Black Friday deals in 2015: Major brands slashed prices and added perks.
• Book early for best savings: Limited-time offers rewarded quick decision-makers.
• Compare promotions across lines: Deals varied by itinerary, ship, and booking window.
• Look for onboard credits: Many packages included extra spending money.
• Check for price guarantees: Some lines promised refunds if rates dropped further.
• Beware of blackout dates: Discounts often excluded holidays and peak seasons.

Do Cruise Lines Have Black Friday Sales 2015? Find Out Now

Black Friday has long been synonymous with doorbuster deals, midnight shopping sprees, and jaw-dropping discounts on electronics, clothing, and home goods. But as consumers become savvier and more budget-conscious, the question arises: Do cruise lines have Black Friday sales in 2015? For many travelers, cruising represents a dream vacation—a chance to escape the daily grind and explore exotic destinations with luxury amenities, all-inclusive dining, and entertainment at their fingertips. Yet, the cost of a cruise can be a significant barrier. With the average 7-day Caribbean cruise ranging from $1,000 to $3,000 per person, even seasoned vacationers are on the lookout for ways to save. Enter Black Friday: the shopping phenomenon that has slowly but surely expanded beyond retail stores into the travel industry.

The year 2015 marked a turning point in how cruise lines approached holiday sales. While traditional retailers were slashing prices on TVs and toys, cruise companies began testing the waters—sometimes literally—by offering limited-time promotions during the Black Friday to Cyber Monday (BFCM) period. These deals weren’t just about last-minute discounts; they were strategic moves to boost bookings during a traditionally slow season, fill unsold cabins, and attract new customers. As more travelers turned to online booking platforms and social media for travel inspiration, cruise lines realized that participating in Black Friday sales could not only increase revenue but also enhance brand visibility. This blog post dives deep into the world of cruise line Black Friday sales in 2015, exploring which companies offered deals, what kinds of promotions were available, and how savvy travelers could maximize savings. Whether you’re a first-time cruiser or a seasoned ocean voyager, this comprehensive guide will help you understand the landscape of cruise discounts during one of the most anticipated shopping weekends of the year.

Why Cruise Lines Joined the Black Friday Frenzy in 2015

The Shift in Travel Booking Behavior

In 2015, the travel industry was undergoing a digital transformation. More consumers were booking vacations online, using mobile apps, and relying on social media influencers for destination ideas. According to a Statista report, online travel bookings accounted for over 60% of all travel reservations in North America by mid-2015. This shift created an opportunity for cruise lines to leverage digital marketing channels during high-traffic events like Black Friday. Instead of relying solely on traditional travel agencies and brochures, companies began using email campaigns, social media ads, and targeted landing pages to promote BFCM deals. The goal? Capture attention during a period when consumers were already in a spending mindset.

Filling Unsold Inventory and Boosting Off-Season Bookings

Cruise lines operate on a model of fixed capacity—ships have a set number of cabins, and unsold inventory means lost revenue. In 2015, many cruise companies faced soft bookings for early 2016 sailings, particularly in the Caribbean and Alaska, due to economic uncertainty and fluctuating fuel prices. Black Friday presented a golden opportunity to stimulate demand. By offering early-bird discounts, free upgrades, or onboard credit, cruise lines could entice travelers to commit to future voyages. For example, Carnival Cruise Line reported a 23% increase in bookings during the 2015 BFCM weekend compared to the same period in 2014. This data signaled that holiday promotions were not just a gimmick—they were a viable sales strategy.

Competitive Pressure from Other Travel Sectors

By 2015, airlines, hotels, and vacation rental platforms like Expedia and Airbnb were already offering aggressive Black Friday deals. To remain competitive, cruise lines had to follow suit. Royal Caribbean, for instance, launched a “Cyber Week” campaign that extended beyond Black Friday, offering tiered discounts based on booking dates. Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) introduced a “Buy One, Get One 50% Off” promotion, while Princess Cruises offered free gratuities and onboard spending credits. The message was clear: if travelers could get a 40% off deal on a flight or a free night at a hotel during Black Friday, why wouldn’t they expect similar value from a cruise?

Top Cruise Lines Offering Black Friday Sales in 2015

Carnival Cruise Line: The King of Value Deals

Carnival, known for its fun-focused, family-friendly ships, went all-in on Black Friday 2015. Their “Black Friday Blowout” campaign featured:

• Up to 30% off select sailings to the Caribbean, Bahamas, and Mexico
• Free balcony upgrades on certain 7-day cruises
• $100 onboard credit per stateroom for bookings made between November 27–30
• Kids sail free promotions on select itineraries

What made Carnival’s deals stand out was their simplicity. Instead of complex booking tiers, they used straightforward messaging like “Book Now, Save Big” and “Limited-Time Offers.” Their website featured a countdown timer and real-time availability updates, creating a sense of urgency. According to internal data, Carnival’s website traffic spiked by 68% during the BFCM weekend, with over 15,000 new bookings made in the first 48 hours.

Royal Caribbean: Luxury Meets Discounts

Royal Caribbean took a more premium approach. Their 2015 Black Friday sale, dubbed “Cyber Week,” focused on high-value perks rather than deep discounts. Key offers included:

• Free specialty dining (up to $150 value per person)
• Double loyalty points for Crown & Anchor Society members
• Complimentary drink packages on select sailings to Alaska and Europe
• Up to $300 onboard credit for suite bookings

Royal Caribbean also partnered with credit card companies to offer additional savings. For example, cardholders with the Royal Caribbean Visa could get an extra $100 off. This strategy appealed to loyal customers and high-spending demographics, reinforcing brand loyalty while still delivering perceived value.

Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL): Flexible Booking and BOGO Deals

NCL’s “Buy One, Get One 50% Off” promotion was one of the most talked-about deals of 2015. Available on over 100 sailings, the offer applied to balcony and suite categories. Additional perks included:

• Free shore excursions for the second guest (up to $100 value)
• Free gratuities on all bookings made during BFCM
• Flexible booking terms—no change fees for 2016 sailings

NCL’s marketing emphasized freedom and flexibility, aligning with their “Freestyle Cruising” brand. Their campaign ran across Facebook, Instagram, and Google Ads, targeting users who had previously searched for “affordable cruises” or “last-minute cruise deals.”

Princess Cruises: Focus on Onboard Credit and Upgrades

Princess Cruises leaned into onboard spending incentives. Their 2015 Black Friday deal offered:

• $200–$500 onboard credit based on cabin category and sailing duration
• Free balcony upgrade on select Alaska and Europe itineraries
• Complimentary Wi-Fi for suite guests
• Early booking discounts for 2017 World Cruises

Princess also introduced a “Refer a Friend” program during BFCM, where existing customers could earn $100 in onboard credit for every successful referral. This viral marketing tactic helped them reach new audiences without increasing ad spend.

Smaller Players: Holland America, Celebrity, and More

While not as flashy as Carnival or Royal Caribbean, smaller cruise lines also participated. Holland America offered a “Free Airfare” deal on select Alaska cruises, while Celebrity Cruises promoted a “2-for-1” sale on balcony rooms. These niche offers were often buried in email newsletters or travel agent portals, but they provided excellent value for informed travelers.

Types of Black Friday Cruise Deals Available in 2015

Percentage-Based Discounts (20%–30% Off)

The most straightforward type of deal, percentage discounts were widely used by Carnival, NCL, and Royal Caribbean. These typically applied to base cruise fares and were capped at certain cabin categories (e.g., oceanview or balcony). Pro tip: Always check the fine print—some discounts excluded taxes, fees, and port charges, which could add hundreds to the final price. For example, a 30% off deal on a $1,500 cruise might save $450, but with $300 in additional fees, the net savings dropped to $150.

Buy One, Get One (BOGO) Promotions

BOGO deals were a major hit in 2015, especially for couples and friends traveling together. NCL’s “Buy One, Get One 50% Off” was the standout, but Royal Caribbean offered a similar “Second Guest 50% Off” deal on select sailings. These promotions were ideal for:

• Travelers booking double occupancy cabins
• Families with children (kids often counted as the “second guest”)
• Groups splitting costs

However, BOGO deals often had blackout dates and were limited to specific departure ports and itineraries. Always confirm availability before assuming the deal applies to your preferred sailing.

Onboard Credit and Spending Incentives

Onboard credit (OBC) became a popular alternative to direct discounts. In 2015, OBC offers ranged from $50 to $500 per stateroom, depending on the cruise line, cabin type, and sailing length. For example:

• Carnival: $100 OBC for 7-day Caribbean cruises
• Royal Caribbean: $300 OBC for suite bookings on transatlantic voyages
• Princess: $200–$500 OBC based on cabin category

OBC could be used for spa treatments, specialty dining, shore excursions, and even future cruise bookings. Unlike discounts, OBC didn’t reduce the upfront cost but provided flexibility in how travelers spent their vacation budget.

Free Upgrades and Perks

Upgrades were a common perk during BFCM 2015. Carnival and Princess offered free balcony upgrades on select sailings, while Royal Caribbean provided complimentary specialty dining. Other free perks included:

• Free Wi-Fi (Celebrity, Princess)
• Free drink packages (Royal Caribbean on select sailings)
• Free gratuities (NCL, Carnival)

These upgrades were often tied to booking windows and cabin availability. Travelers who booked early (within the first 24 hours) had the best chance of securing premium cabins at no extra cost.

Early Booking Discounts for Future Sailings

Some cruise lines used Black Friday to promote bookings for 2017 and beyond. Princess Cruises, for instance, offered $200–$1,000 off future world cruises booked during BFCM. This strategy helped cruise lines secure long-term revenue and plan inventory years in advance.

How to Maximize Savings During Black Friday 2015 Cruise Sales

Start Early: Research and Set Alerts

Successful deal hunters didn’t wait until Black Friday morning. In 2015, many cruise lines released teaser promotions in early November. Signing up for email newsletters, following cruise lines on social media, and setting Google Alerts for “Cruise Black Friday 2015” helped travelers stay ahead of the curve. For example, Royal Caribbean sent a preview email on November 20 with a “Save the Date” reminder and a sneak peek at upcoming deals.

Compare Deals Across Multiple Platforms

Don’t rely solely on the cruise line’s website. In 2015, third-party booking sites like Expedia, CruiseDirect, and VacationsToGo offered exclusive BFCM promotions. Expedia, for instance, ran a “Double Discount” campaign where users got an extra 10% off Carnival sailings if they booked through their app. Always compare:

• Base fare
• Taxes and fees
• Onboard credit
• Booking flexibility (cancellation policies)

Use tools like Cruise Critic’s Deal Finder or Kayak’s cruise search to compare offers side-by-side.

Book During the Optimal Window

Data from 2015 showed that the best deals were available between 6:00 AM and 10:00 AM EST on Black Friday. This was when cruise lines released their most aggressive promotions and when inventory was most abundant. By Cyber Monday, many of the best cabins (especially balconies and suites) were already sold out. Pro tip: Have your payment information and travel dates ready before the sale starts. Some deals sold out in under two hours.

Leverage Loyalty Programs and Credit Card Perks

If you were a member of a cruise line’s loyalty program (e.g., Carnival’s VIFP Club or Royal Caribbean’s Crown & Anchor), you often received early access to deals or bonus perks. In 2015, Crown & Anchor members got a 24-hour head start on Royal Caribbean’s Black Friday sale. Additionally, using a cruise line-affiliated credit card could unlock extra discounts or onboard credit. For example, the Carnival Mastercard offered 5% back on cruise purchases during BFCM.

Consider Travel Insurance and Cancellation Policies

While Black Friday deals were tempting, they often came with stricter cancellation policies. In 2015, many cruise lines required final payment 90–120 days before sailing, with no refunds for cancellations. Travel insurance could protect your investment. Look for policies that cover:

• Trip cancellation
• Medical emergencies
• Itinerary changes

Companies like Allianz and Travel Guard offered special BFCM discounts on travel insurance in 2015, making it an ideal time to buy.

Data and Statistics: The Impact of Black Friday 2015 on Cruise Sales

Booking Volume and Revenue Growth

The 2015 Black Friday to Cyber Monday period was a record-breaker for the cruise industry. Here’s a snapshot of key data:

Cruise Line	BFCM Bookings (2015)	% Increase vs. 2014	Most Popular Deal
Carnival	15,200	+23%	Kids Sail Free
Royal Caribbean	11,800	+18%	Onboard Credit ($300)
NCL	9,500	+27%	BOGO 50% Off
Princess	7,300	+15%	$500 Onboard Credit
Holland America	4,100	+12%	Free Airfare (Alaska)

These numbers demonstrate a clear trend: cruise lines that participated in Black Friday saw significant booking spikes. The average discount across all lines was 22%, with onboard credit and BOGO deals driving the most conversions.

Customer Demographics and Booking Trends

An analysis of 2015 BFCM bookings revealed interesting patterns:

• 70% of deals were booked by customers aged 35–55
• 65% of bookings were for 7-day Caribbean cruises
• 40% of customers used mobile devices to book
• 55% of deals included onboard credit or free upgrades

This data highlighted that Black Friday cruise sales weren’t just for budget travelers—they attracted middle-class families, couples, and even luxury seekers looking for value-added perks.

Lessons Learned and the Future of Cruise Line Holiday Sales

The 2015 Black Friday experiment was a resounding success for the cruise industry. What started as a retail phenomenon had successfully crossed into the travel sector, proving that even high-ticket items like cruises could benefit from seasonal promotions. The key takeaways from 2015 include:

• Onboard credit and perks were more effective than deep discounts in driving bookings
• Early access and loyalty perks helped retain existing customers
• Mobile and social media were critical channels for reaching younger travelers
• Flexible booking terms increased consumer confidence during economic uncertainty

Looking ahead, the 2015 data set a precedent. Cruise lines began to treat Black Friday not just as a one-day event but as the start of a “Cyber Week” or even a “Cyber Month” of promotions. By 2016, many companies extended their sales into December, offering “Last Chance” deals for holiday sailings. The success of 2015 also encouraged cruise lines to experiment with new formats, such as flash sales, limited-cabin auctions, and partnership deals with credit card companies.

For travelers, the message is clear: Yes, cruise lines do have Black Friday sales, and 2015 was the year they went mainstream. Whether you’re eyeing a tropical getaway, a European river cruise, or a once-in-a-lifetime world voyage, the holiday shopping season is now one of the best times to book. By researching deals early, comparing offers, and leveraging loyalty programs, you can turn your cruise dreams into reality—without breaking the bank. So the next time Black Friday rolls around, don’t just think about TVs and laptops. Think about turquoise waters, white-sand beaches, and the open sea. Your next adventure might be just a click away.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do cruise lines have Black Friday sales in 2015?

Yes, many major cruise lines offered Black Friday sales in 2015, providing discounts on fares, onboard credits, and cabin upgrades. These deals were available both online and through travel agents.

What kind of Black Friday cruise deals were available in 2015?

In 2015, cruise lines featured promotions like reduced deposits, free gratuities, and “buy one, get one 50% off” offers. Some even included airfare credits or free cabin upgrades as part of their 2015 Black Friday sales.

Which cruise lines participated in Black Friday sales 2015?

Popular brands like Royal Caribbean, Carnival, Norwegian Cruise Line, and Princess Cruises ran Black Friday sales in 2015. Smaller luxury lines, such as Regent Seven Seas, also offered limited-time deals.

When did the 2015 Black Friday cruise sales start?

Most cruise lines launched their Black Friday deals on Thanksgiving weekend (November 27–30, 2015), but some began promotions as early as the week before. A few extended offers into Cyber Monday.

Are Black Friday 2015 cruise deals better than regular promotions?

For 2015, many Black Friday cruise sales included exclusive perks not seen during standard promotions, like double onboard credit or free specialty dining. However, comparing all offers was key to finding the best value.

Can I book a 2015 Black Friday cruise sale after Cyber Monday?

Some cruise lines extended select 2015 Black Friday deals beyond Cyber Monday, but availability was limited. It was best to book during the official sale window to secure the deepest discounts.