What Cruise Lines Include Airfare in Their Packages

Several major cruise lines, including Norwegian Cruise Line, Royal Caribbean, and Carnival, now offer air-inclusive packages to simplify travel planning and reduce overall costs. These bundled deals often feature discounted airfare, free airport transfers, and coordinated flight schedules with your cruise departure. Always compare total package prices and read the fine print, as inclusions and airline choices vary significantly by promotion and destination.

Key Takeaways

• Book early: Secure air-inclusive deals by reserving months in advance.
• Compare packages: Not all lines offer airfare—check inclusions carefully.
• Choose luxury: Premium lines like Regent and Oceania often include air.
• Maximize value: Air-inclusive deals may offer better overall savings.
• Verify flexibility: Confirm if air credits apply to preferred airlines.
• Check destinations: Airfare inclusions vary by itinerary and departure city.

What Cruise Lines Include Airfare in Their Packages

Imagine booking a dream vacation to the Caribbean, Alaska, or the Mediterranean—only to realize that airfare costs nearly as much as the cruise itself. For many travelers, the convenience and cost-efficiency of having flights included in their cruise package is a game-changer. But which cruise lines actually offer this perk? And how can you ensure you’re getting the best deal without sacrificing flexibility or comfort?

The answer lies in understanding the growing trend of all-inclusive cruise packages that bundle airfare, accommodations, meals, and even excursions into a single price. While not every cruise line includes flights by default, several major players have embraced this model to attract budget-conscious travelers, families, and retirees seeking stress-free vacations. From luxury brands to budget-friendly options, the market offers a surprising range of choices. In this guide, we’ll explore which cruise lines include airfare, how to maximize value, and what pitfalls to avoid.

Why Cruise Lines Include Airfare: The Business and Traveler Benefits

The Rise of Bundled Travel Packages

Over the past decade, the travel industry has shifted toward bundled offerings to simplify planning and reduce costs. Cruise lines, facing competition from airlines and all-inclusive resorts, now see airfare inclusion as a competitive edge. For example, in 2022, Royal Caribbean reported that 38% of their passengers opted for air-inclusive packages, citing convenience as the primary motivator. This trend is driven by:

• Economies of scale: Cruise lines negotiate bulk airfares, often at discounts of 15-30% compared to retail prices.
• Customer loyalty: Bundling flights encourages repeat business, as travelers return to the same brand for future trips.
• Reduced stress: Eliminating the need to book separate flights appeals to time-strapped families and seniors.

How Airfare Inclusion Saves You Money

While bundled packages may seem pricier upfront, they often offer hidden savings. Consider this example: A 7-day Caribbean cruise with Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) costs $1,200 per person, while a round-trip flight from New York to Miami averages $450. By booking NCL’s air-inclusive deal, you might pay $1,500 total—a $150 savings. Key factors include:

• Group booking discounts: Cruise lines secure lower fares by booking flights for hundreds of passengers at once.
• No baggage fees: Many packages include checked luggage, saving $50-$100 per person.
• Airport transfers: Complimentary shuttles from the airport to the port (valued at $30-$80 per person).

Top Cruise Lines That Include Airfare (With Examples)

1. Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL): The “Free at Sea” Program

NCL’s Free at Sea promotion is one of the most popular air-inclusive options. When you book a qualifying cruise, you can add airfare for as little as $99 per person (plus taxes). Key features:

• Flexible departure cities: Over 100 U.S. and Canadian airports.
• No change fees: Unlike many airlines, NCL allows date changes without penalties (within 24 hours of sailing).
• Example deal: A 7-day Bahamas cruise from Miami (departing from Chicago) costs $1,499/person with airfare, vs. $1,299 without flights (airfare alone: ~$400).

2. Royal Caribbean: “Air2Sea” and “Cruise Planner”

Royal Caribbean’s Air2Sea program offers airfare starting at $149 per person, with options to upgrade to premium economy or business class. Their Cruise Planner tool lets you compare bundled vs. à la carte pricing. Highlights:

• Airport lounges: Complimentary access for suites and loyalty members.
• Missed flight insurance: If your flight is delayed, Royal Caribbean reimburses you for a hotel and reschedules your cruise.
• Example deal: A 5-day Western Caribbean cruise (departing from Dallas) costs $1,699/person with airfare, including a $200 onboard credit.

3. Celebrity Cruises: “Always Included” Pricing

Celebrity’s Always Included model bundles airfare, drinks, gratuities, and Wi-Fi into a single price. Airfare starts at $199 per person, with options for:

• Premium airlines: Delta, United, and American Airlines.
• Early boarding: Air-inclusive guests board the ship first.
• Example deal: A 10-day Mediterranean cruise (departing from Los Angeles) costs $2,899/person with airfare, including a free specialty dinner.

4. Princess Cruises: “Princess EZair” and “Air Advantage”

Princess Cruises offers two airfare programs:

• EZair: Lowest available fares, with no change fees (departure cities: 50+ U.S./Canada).
• Air Advantage: Guaranteed lowest price match; if you find a cheaper flight, Princess refunds the difference.
• Example deal: A 7-day Alaska cruise (departing from Seattle) costs $1,799/person with airfare, including a free excursion.

5. Holland America Line: “Have It All” Premium Package

Holland America’s Have It All package includes airfare, drinks, gratuities, and a $200 onboard credit. Airfare starts at $179 per person, with:

• Elite status perks: Priority boarding and free shore excursions for loyalty members.
• Flexible booking: Cancel up to 30 days before sailing for a full refund.
• Example deal: A 14-day Panama Canal cruise (departing from Boston) costs $3,499/person with airfare.

When Airfare Inclusion Isn’t Worth It: 3 Hidden Pitfalls

1. Limited Flight Options and Schedules

Air-inclusive deals often use charter flights or less convenient routes. For example:

• A cruise line might book a 6:00 AM flight from Chicago to Miami, requiring an overnight hotel stay.
• Return flights may depart at midnight, cutting short your last day in port.

Tip: Check flight times and layovers before booking. If the schedule is poor, consider booking flights separately and using the cruise line’s air deviation fee (usually $150-$300) to adjust your itinerary.

2. Inflexible Change and Cancellation Policies

While cruise lines advertise “no change fees,” air-inclusive packages often have strict rules:

• Changes made within 60 days of departure may incur fees up to $500.
• Cancellations may only refund the cruise portion, not the airfare.

Tip: Purchase travel insurance that covers airfare changes. Companies like Allianz and Travel Guard offer “cancel for any reason” policies.

3. Hidden Costs and “Bait-and-Switch” Pricing

Some promotions advertise “$99 airfare” but exclude taxes and fees (which can add $200+). Others restrict airfare to specific departure cities or cabin categories. Always:

• Read the fine print: Look for phrases like “from $99” or “based on double occupancy.”
• Compare total costs: Use a spreadsheet to add up cruise price, airfare, taxes, and port fees.

How to Maximize Value: Tips for Booking Air-Inclusive Cruises

1. Book During Airfare Promotions

Cruise lines frequently run airfare sales during:

• Wave Season (January-March)
• Black Friday/Cyber Monday
• Back-to-school (August-September)

Example: In 2023, Carnival Cruise Line offered “$1 airfare” for select sailings during Wave Season—a 99% discount on typical air-inclusive rates.

2. Use a Travel Agent Specializing in Cruises

Experienced agents have access to:

• Unadvertised deals: e.g., free airfare for suite bookings.
• Group rates: If you’re traveling with 8+ people, you may qualify for a group discount.
• Airport upgrades: Agents can often secure business-class seats for an extra fee.

3. Leverage Loyalty Programs

Frequent cruisers earn status perks that enhance air-inclusive deals:

• Royal Caribbean: Diamond members get free airport transfers.
• NCL: Latitude members receive priority flight bookings.
• Celebrity: Elite members get complimentary lounge access.

4. Compare “Total Cost” vs. “À La Carte” Pricing

Use this formula to compare options:

1. Add cruise price + airfare (from a third-party site) + port fees + taxes.
2. Compare to the bundled price.
3. Subtract any included perks (e.g., onboard credit, free excursions).

Example: A 10-day Europe cruise costs $3,000 (bundled) vs. $2,800 (à la carte) + $600 airfare + $200 port fees = $3,600 total. The bundled deal saves $600.

Airfare Inclusion by Cruise Line: A Comparison Table

Cruise Line	Airfare Program	Starting Price	Departure Cities	Key Perks
Norwegian Cruise Line	Free at Sea	$99/person	100+ U.S./Canada	No change fees, airport transfers
Royal Caribbean	Air2Sea	$149/person	80+ U.S./Canada	Missed flight insurance, lounge access
Celebrity Cruises	Always Included	$199/person	70+ U.S./Canada	Free drinks, gratuities, Wi-Fi
Princess Cruises	EZair/Air Advantage	$129/person	50+ U.S./Canada	Price match guarantee, free excursion
Holland America	Have It All	$179/person	60+ U.S./Canada	$200 onboard credit, priority boarding

Conclusion: Is Airfare Inclusion Right for You?

Air-inclusive cruise packages can simplify travel planning and save money—but they’re not a one-size-fits-all solution. For travelers who prioritize convenience and predictable pricing, bundling airfare is often a smart choice. Families, seniors, and first-time cruisers benefit most from the streamlined experience. However, frequent flyers, budget hunters, or those with specific flight needs may find better value booking flights separately.

The key is to analyze your priorities. Do you value time over flexibility? Are you willing to trade flight options for cost savings? Use the tips in this guide to compare total costs, read the fine print, and leverage promotions. Remember: A “free” airfare isn’t truly free if it forces you into a red-eye flight or a 6-hour layover. By understanding the pros and cons, you’ll unlock the full potential of air-inclusive cruising—turning your dream vacation into a reality without the hassle of separate bookings.

Frequently Asked Questions

What cruise lines include airfare in their packages?

Several major cruise lines like Royal Caribbean, Norwegian Cruise Line, and Princess Cruises often include airfare in select vacation packages, especially for premium or long-haul itineraries. Always check the specific offer terms, as air-inclusive deals vary by sailing and departure city.

Are there cruise lines that offer free airfare deals?

Yes, some cruise lines such as Celebrity Cruises and Holland America Line run seasonal promotions with “free airfare” included for certain staterooms or destinations. These deals typically apply to balcony cabins and above on longer voyages.

Do any cruise lines with airfare included cover international flights?

Absolutely. Cruise lines like Princess Cruises and Cunard often bundle international airfare in their Europe, Alaska, or world cruise packages. These air-inclusive options usually feature major airline partners and flexible booking terms.

How can I find cruise lines that include airfare in their pricing?

Search for “cruise lines that include airfare” on comparison sites like Expedia or CruiseDirect, which filter for air-inclusive packages. You can also work with a travel agent who specializes in cruises to identify current deals.

Is airfare included in luxury cruise line packages?

Many luxury lines, including Regent Seven Seas Cruises and Seabourn, include airfare as part of their all-inclusive pricing model. These packages often feature business-class upgrades and ground transfers for a seamless travel experience.

What’s the benefit of booking a cruise with airfare included?

Booking a cruise with airfare included simplifies planning, locks in flight costs, and often saves money compared to booking flights separately. It also reduces the risk of missed connections since the cruise line coordinates your travel schedule.