How to Get Best Deal on Alaskan Cruise

Learn how to score the best deal on an Alaskan cruise with smart booking strategies, seasonal insights, and money-saving hacks. Save hundreds—or even thousands—on your dream Alaska adventure by following proven tips from cruise experts.

Key Takeaways

• Book during wave season (January–March) for the biggest discounts, onboard credits, and free upgrades from cruise lines.
• Travel in shoulder months (May, early June, September) to enjoy lower prices, fewer crowds, and still-great weather.
• Use a travel agent specializing in Alaska cruises—they often have access to exclusive deals and perks not available online.
• Monitor price drops and reprice your booking if your cruise line offers a price adjustment policy.
• Choose an inside cabin or last-minute deal to maximize savings without sacrificing the Alaska experience.
• Bundle airfare, hotels, and excursions through your cruise line or a trusted travel partner for added value.
• Sign up for fare alerts and loyalty programs to be the first to know about flash sales and member-only discounts.

How to Get the Best Deal on an Alaskan Cruise

Dreaming of glaciers, wildlife, and rugged coastlines? An Alaskan cruise delivers some of the most breathtaking scenery on Earth—but it doesn’t have to break the bank. With the right strategy, you can enjoy this once-in-a-lifetime adventure at a fraction of the cost.

In this guide, you’ll learn how to get the best deal on an Alaskan cruise—from timing your booking perfectly to unlocking hidden discounts and maximizing value. Whether you’re a first-time cruiser or a seasoned traveler, these expert-backed tips will help you save money while still enjoying a luxurious, unforgettable journey through America’s last frontier.

We’ll cover everything from the best times to book and sail, to cabin selection, travel agent perks, and even how to score free upgrades. By the end, you’ll be equipped with a clear, step-by-step plan to cruise Alaska affordably—without cutting corners on experience.

Step 1: Know the Best Time to Book Your Alaskan Cruise

Timing is everything when it comes to saving money on an Alaskan cruise. Unlike tropical destinations, Alaska has a short cruising season—typically from May to September—which means demand is high and prices fluctuate dramatically.

Book During “Wave Season” (January–March)

The single best time to book an Alaskan cruise is during wave season, which runs from January through March. This is when cruise lines launch their biggest promotions of the year to boost early bookings.

During wave season, you’ll find:
– Deep discounts (sometimes up to 40% off)
– Generous onboard credits ($100–$500+)
– Free or reduced airfare
– Complimentary upgrades (e.g., oceanview to balcony)
– Free drink packages or Wi-Fi

For example, Holland America and Princess Cruises often run “Buy One, Get One 50% Off” deals during this period. Royal Caribbean might offer $200 in onboard credit plus free specialty dining. These deals are designed to lock in bookings early, so cruise lines can plan their itineraries and staffing.

Pro Tip: Set calendar reminders for early January and sign up for email alerts from major cruise lines. Deals drop fast—sometimes within hours.

Consider Booking 6–12 Months in Advance

Alaska cruises are popular, and the best cabins (especially balcony and suites) sell out quickly. Booking 6 to 12 months ahead gives you the widest selection and access to early-bird pricing.

Cruise lines like Celebrity and Norwegian often release their Alaska itineraries in the fall for the following summer. Booking as soon as they’re available can save you hundreds compared to waiting until spring.

Avoid Last-Minute Bookings (Unless You’re Flexible)

While last-minute deals can offer steep discounts, they’re risky for Alaska. The season is short, and popular ports like Juneau, Ketchikan, and Skagway fill up fast. If you wait too long, you may only find:
– Inside cabins (no windows)
– Higher prices due to limited availability
– Fewer flight options to Seattle or Vancouver (common departure cities)

That said, if you’re flexible with dates and cabin type, checking for last-minute deals in April or early May can pay off. Some cruise lines slash prices just weeks before departure to fill remaining cabins.

Step 2: Choose the Right Time to Sail

When you sail can make a bigger difference in price than almost any other factor. Alaska’s cruise season spans five months, but not all months are created equal.

Sail in Shoulder Months: May, Early June, or September

The shoulder months—just before or after peak season—offer the best balance of price, weather, and crowds.

– May and early June: Fewer crowds, lower prices, and blooming wildlife. Temperatures range from 45°F to 65°F. You might see more rain, but also more active wildlife as animals emerge from winter.
– September: Cooler temps (40°F–60°F), but stunning fall colors, fewer kids (school is back in session), and lower prices. Wildlife is still active, and glaciers are just as impressive.

Peak season is mid-June to mid-August. While the weather is warmest and daylight longest (up to 18 hours!), prices are highest and ports are packed. If budget is a priority, avoid these weeks.

Avoid Holiday Weeks

Sailing during Memorial Day, Fourth of July, or Labor Day will cost significantly more. Cruise lines know families want to travel during school breaks, so they raise prices accordingly.

For example, a 7-night cruise in early July might cost $200 more per person than the same cruise in late May. That’s $800 extra for a family of four—money better spent on excursions or souvenirs.

Step 3: Pick the Right Cabin Type

Your cabin choice has a huge impact on price—and value. While a balcony cabin sounds dreamy, it can add $1,000+ to your total cost. Here’s how to choose wisely.

Inside Cabin: The Budget-Friendly Winner

An inside cabin (no window) is the most affordable option and a smart choice if you plan to spend most of your time exploring ports or enjoying public areas.

Pros:
– Lowest price
– Quieter (less vibration from engines)
– Darker room = better sleep

Cons:
– No natural light
– Can feel claustrophobic

Tip: Choose an inside cabin midship on a lower deck for the smoothest ride and easiest access to dining and entertainment.

Oceanview: A Middle Ground

Oceanview cabins have a window or porthole but no balcony. They’re a great compromise if you want natural light without the balcony price tag.

Prices are typically $200–$500 less than a balcony. Perfect for travelers who want to see the scenery but don’t need outdoor space.

Balcony: Worth It? Only If You’ll Use It

Balcony cabins offer private outdoor space—ideal for watching glaciers calve or whales breach. But they’re expensive.

Ask yourself:
– Will I spend time on the balcony?
– Is the extra cost worth it for the experience?

If you’re cruising with a partner or celebrating a special occasion, a balcony can enhance the experience. But if you’re on a tight budget, skip it and enjoy the views from the ship’s public decks—many of which are just as scenic.

Suites: For Special Occasions Only

Suites offer extra space, premium amenities, and concierge service—but at a steep price. Only consider if you’re celebrating a milestone or have a larger budget.

Step 4: Use a Travel Agent (Yes, Really!)

You might think booking online is cheaper—but a good travel agent can actually save you money and add value.

Access to Exclusive Deals

Travel agents, especially those specializing in Alaska cruises, often have access to:
– Unadvertised group rates
– Free upgrades
– Extra onboard credit
– Complimentary shore excursions

For example, an agent might have a block of cabins with a “free balcony upgrade” promotion that’s not available on the cruise line’s website.

Personalized Advice and Support

Agents help you navigate complex itineraries, choose the right ship, and avoid common pitfalls. They can also:
– Recommend the best excursions
– Help with travel insurance
– Assist if your flight is delayed or cruise is canceled

No Extra Cost

Most travel agents are paid by the cruise line, so their services are free to you. You get expert help at no additional charge.

Tip: Look for agents certified by CLIA (Cruise Lines International Association) or members of ASTA (American Society of Travel Advisors).

Step 5: Monitor Prices and Reprice If Possible

Cruise prices can drop after you book—especially if the cruise line is trying to fill cabins. Some lines offer a price adjustment policy, allowing you to reprice your booking if the fare goes down.

Check the Cruise Line’s Policy

– Royal Caribbean: Offers a “Best Price Guarantee”—if you find a lower price within 48 hours of booking, they’ll match it.
– Norwegian Cruise Line: Allows repricing if the fare drops before final payment.
– Celebrity Cruises: Offers a “Price Drop Protection” program for an added fee.

Set Price Alerts

Use tools like:
– CruiseCompete.com
– VacationsToGo.com
– Kayak or Google Flights (for cruise + air packages)

These sites let you track prices and notify you of drops. If the price falls, contact your agent or the cruise line to request a repricing.

Note: Not all lines allow repricing, and some charge a fee. Always read the fine print.

Step 6: Bundle Airfare, Hotels, and Excursions

Booking everything separately might seem cheaper, but bundling can save you money and simplify planning.

Cruise Line Packages

Many cruise lines offer “cruise + air” deals that include:
– Round-trip flights
– Pre- or post-cruise hotel nights
– Transfers between airport and port

These packages often cost less than booking components individually—and you get the convenience of one point of contact.

For example, Princess Cruises’ “Air/Sea” program includes flights from major U.S. cities, often with free airport transfers.

Shore Excursion Savings

Booking excursions through the cruise line can be pricey, but they offer:
– Guaranteed return to the ship
– Group discounts
– Expert guides

To save, compare prices with local tour operators in port cities. Just ensure they’re reputable and allow enough time to return.

Tip: Book popular excursions (like whale watching in Juneau or the Mendenhall Glacier tour) in advance—they sell out fast.

Step 7: Sign Up for Loyalty Programs and Fare Alerts

Never miss a deal by staying informed.

Join Cruise Line Loyalty Programs

Programs like:
– Voyage Society (Carnival)
– Crown & Anchor (Royal Caribbean)
– Captain’s Circle (Celebrity)

Offer perks like:
– Discounts on future cruises
– Priority boarding
– Free drink packages
– Exclusive member sales

Even if you’ve never cruised with them before, sign up—many offer “new member” discounts.

Subscribe to Email Alerts

Sign up for newsletters from:
– Cruise lines
– Travel deal sites (e.g., Scott’s Cheap Flights, The Flight Deal)
– Travel agents

You’ll get early access to flash sales, limited-time offers, and last-minute deals.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

What If Prices Go Up After I Book?

Unfortunately, cruise lines rarely offer refunds if prices increase. But you’re locked in at your rate—so you’re protected from hikes.

What If My Flight Is Delayed?

Book flights with enough buffer time (at least 3 hours before departure). Consider travel insurance that covers missed departures. Many cruise lines offer “missed connection” protection if you booked air through them.

What If the Weather Is Bad?

Alaska weather is unpredictable. Pack layers, waterproof gear, and be flexible. Most cruise lines will adjust itineraries for safety, but refunds are rare. Travel insurance can help cover non-refundable expenses.

Conclusion

Getting the best deal on an Alaskan cruise doesn’t mean sacrificing quality—it means being smart, flexible, and proactive. By booking during wave season, sailing in shoulder months, choosing the right cabin, and using a travel agent, you can save hundreds while still enjoying a world-class experience.

Remember: the goal isn’t just to spend less—it’s to get the most value for your money. With glaciers, whales, and mountain vistas waiting, your Alaskan adventure is worth every penny. Start planning today, and cruise Alaska like a savvy traveler.