What Is the Cheapest Cruise Line to Go On for Budget Travelers

The cheapest cruise line for budget travelers is typically Carnival Cruise Line, known for its affordable base fares and frequent promotions that slash costs on 3- to 7-day itineraries. Additional savings can be found with off-peak sailings and last-minute deals, making Carnival a top pick for cost-conscious adventurers seeking value-packed vacations.

Key Takeaways

• Carnival Cruise Line offers the lowest base fares for budget travelers.
• Book early or last-minute to secure the cheapest cruise deals.
• Norwegian Cruise Line has affordable short itineraries under $50/day.
• Look for repositioning cruises—they’re often deeply discounted.
• Royal Caribbean provides value with free onboard activities and kids-sail-free deals.
• Choose inside cabins to save up to 30% on cruise costs.

Why Cruising on a Budget Is More Accessible Than Ever

For years, cruises were seen as a luxury reserved for the wealthy—glittering ballrooms, five-course meals, and exotic ports of call. But in today’s travel landscape, that perception is rapidly changing. Budget travelers are discovering that cruising can be one of the most cost-effective ways to explore multiple destinations without the hassle of constant flight bookings, hotel changes, or daily meal planning. With the right strategy and the right cruise line, you can sail the Caribbean, Mediterranean, or even Alaska for a fraction of what a traditional vacation would cost. The key? Knowing which cruise lines offer the best value without sacrificing the core cruise experience.

The cruise industry has evolved dramatically, with companies now offering tiered pricing, early-bird promotions, last-minute deals, and even “no-frills” base fares that let you build your own experience. This means that even if you’re on a tight budget, you can still enjoy the magic of waking up to a new view every day, indulging in buffet feasts, and participating in onboard activities—all for less than $100 per person per day. But with so many options, how do you determine what is the cheapest cruise line to go on? The answer isn’t as simple as picking the lowest advertised price. It’s about understanding hidden costs, seasonal pricing, itinerary length, and the true value of what’s included. In this guide, we’ll break down the most affordable cruise lines, reveal insider tips to save money, and help you plan a dream cruise without breaking the bank.

Top 5 Cheapest Cruise Lines for Budget Travelers

Carnival Cruise Line: The King of Value

When it comes to what is the cheapest cruise line to go on, Carnival Cruise Line consistently ranks at the top. Known for its “Fun Ships,” Carnival offers some of the lowest base fares in the industry, especially for short Caribbean and Bahamas itineraries. A 3- to 4-day cruise from Miami or Fort Lauderdale can start as low as $249 per person, making it a go-to choice for first-time cruisers and budget-conscious travelers.

What sets Carnival apart is its all-inclusive base fare. Unlike some competitors, Carnival includes most onboard activities, entertainment, and meals in the initial price. While specialty dining, alcohol, and spa services cost extra, the core cruise experience—buffet dining, pool access, live shows, and kids’ clubs—is free. Carnival also runs frequent promotions like “Early Saver” and “Super Saver” rates, which offer significant discounts for booking 60+ days in advance. For example, a 7-day Eastern Caribbean cruise on the Carnival Horizon might be advertised at $499 per person, but with a $50 onboard credit and free room upgrade, the effective cost drops even lower.

Pro Tip: Book a “guarantee cabin” (where the cruise line assigns your room) to save an additional $50–$100 per person. Carnival’s newer ships, like the Carnival Breeze and Carnival Panorama, also offer better value due to higher capacity and lower per-person operating costs.

Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL): Freestyle Cruising at Freestyle Prices

Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) revolutionized cruising with its “Freestyle Cruising” concept—no fixed dining times, no formal nights, and a la carte pricing for most services. This flexibility makes NCL a strong contender for budget travelers who want control over their spending. While NCL’s base fares are slightly higher than Carnival’s (often $299+ for 3-day cruises), the line frequently offers Free at Sea promotions that include perks like free open bar, specialty dining, Wi-Fi, and shore excursions—effectively slashing the total cost.

For instance, a 4-day Bahamas cruise on the Norwegian Sky might start at $349 per person, but with a “Free at Sea” deal that includes a free shore excursion (normally $79) and a $50 onboard credit, the value proposition improves dramatically. NCL also excels in longer itineraries (7–14 days), where the per-day cost drops due to economies of scale. Their newer ships, like the Norwegian Encore, offer better value thanks to higher occupancy rates and more efficient pricing models.

Pro Tip: Use NCL’s “Price Drop Protection” feature. If the fare drops after booking, you can rebook at the lower price and keep the difference as an onboard credit.

Royal Caribbean International: Budget-Friendly with Big Amenities

Royal Caribbean is often associated with luxury mega-ships, but it also offers surprisingly affordable options. The key is to target older ships or off-peak itineraries. For example, a 5-day Western Caribbean cruise on the Navigator of the Seas (a 20-year-old ship) might cost $399 per person, compared to $699 for a similar trip on the new Wonder of the Seas. Older ships have lower operating costs, which translates to lower fares.

Royal Caribbean’s base fare includes access to rock climbing walls, ice skating rinks, Broadway-style shows, and FlowRider surf simulators—amenities you won’t find on cheaper lines. While specialty dining and drink packages add up, the line’s “BOGO 50%” (Buy One, Get One 50% Off) promotions for suites and balcony cabins can offer massive savings for couples. Additionally, Royal Caribbean’s loyalty program (Crown & Anchor Society) gives frequent cruisers access to exclusive deals and early booking windows.

Pro Tip: Book a “guarantee inside cabin” on a repositioning cruise (e.g., from Florida to Europe in spring). These one-way trips often have the lowest per-day rates.

MSC Cruises: European Value Meets Global Reach

MSC Cruises, a Swiss-based line, is the dark horse of budget cruising. While less well-known in North America, MSC offers some of the lowest base fares globally—especially for European itineraries. A 7-day Mediterranean cruise from Barcelona or Rome can cost as little as $349 per person, with frequent promotions like “Kids Sail Free” and “Buy One, Get One 50% Off” for adults.

MSC’s value proposition lies in its European roots: lower labor costs, efficient operations, and a focus on high-volume, short itineraries. Their newer ships, like the MSC Seaside, feature modern amenities (LED-lit aqua parks, robot bartenders) at prices 20–30% lower than U.S.-based competitors. However, MSC’s base fare is more “a la carte”—gratuities, drink packages, and even some dining options cost extra. To maximize savings, book during MSC’s “Super Sale” events (typically January and September) and opt for “Classic” dining (fixed time, free) instead of “Premium” (extra cost).

Pro Tip: Use MSC’s “MyMSC” loyalty program. Members get priority booking, discounts, and free cabin upgrades.

Princess Cruises: Budget-Friendly on Longer Itineraries

Princess Cruises is often overlooked for short cruises, but it shines for longer trips (10+ days). The per-day cost drops significantly on repositioning cruises, Alaska voyages, and world cruises. For example, a 14-day Alaska cruise on the Emerald Princess might cost $1,299 per person ($93/day), while a 7-day Caribbean trip on the same ship could be $799 ($114/day).

Princess includes most activities, movies under the stars, and 24-hour room service in the base fare. Their “MedallionClass” technology (a wearable device for keyless entry, ordering drinks, and GPS tracking) adds convenience without extra cost. Princess also partners with local tour operators to offer affordable shore excursions. For instance, a Juneau glacier tour might cost $49 through Princess vs. $129 independently.

Pro Tip: Book a “past guest” rate. Princess offers exclusive discounts to returning cruisers, sometimes 20–30% off.

How to Find the Cheapest Cruise Fares: Insider Strategies

Timing Is Everything: When to Book and When to Sail

To answer what is the cheapest cruise line to go on, you must understand cruise pricing dynamics. Fares fluctuate based on:

• Seasonality: Winter Caribbean cruises peak at $150/day; the same trip in September (hurricane season) drops to $75/day.
• Itinerary Length: 3-day cruises have higher per-day rates ($100+) than 7-day trips ($70–$80/day).
• Booking Window: Early-bird deals (6+ months out) and last-minute sales (60–90 days before departure) offer the best rates.
• Repositioning Cruises: One-way trips (e.g., Miami to Seattle) often have the lowest per-day costs.

Example: A 10-day Panama Canal cruise on Holland America (normally $1,599) dropped to $899 during a “Wave Season” (January–March) promotion.

Use Price-Tracking Tools and Alerts

Don’t rely on cruise line websites alone. Use third-party tools to monitor fares:

• CruiseSheet.com: Tracks historical pricing and sends email alerts for drops.
• VacationsToGo.com: Offers “90-Day Ticker” with real-time fare changes.
• Google Flights (Cruise Tab): Compares prices across multiple lines.

Pro Tip: Set up alerts 6–12 months in advance. Fares typically dip 3–4 months before departure as unsold cabins are discounted.

Negotiate and Leverage Loyalty Programs

Many travelers don’t realize cruise lines allow price adjustments. If you book early and the fare drops:

• Contact customer service to reprice your booking (some lines, like Royal Caribbean, do this automatically).
• Use loyalty points (e.g., Carnival’s VIFP Club) for free upgrades or onboard credits.
• Book through a travel agent who can negotiate group rates or free amenities.

Hidden Costs to Avoid: What’s Really Included?

Gratuities (Tips): The Silent Budget Killer

Most cruise lines automatically add daily gratuities: $14–$18 per person (Carnival, Royal Caribbean) or $15–$20 (MSC, NCL). For a 7-day cruise, this adds $98–$140 per person. To minimize this:

• Pre-pay gratuities at a lower rate (e.g., Carnival offers a 10% discount for early payment).
• Ask to reduce the amount (possible on smaller lines or for past guests).
• On luxury lines, tips are often included—factor this into total cost.

Drink Packages: Are They Worth It?

Drink packages range from $50–$100/day per person. To decide:

• Calculate if you’ll drink $75+ in alcohol daily (e.g., 4 cocktails at $15 each).
• Note that soda, juice, and bottled water are often included in base fare.
• Some lines (e.g., Carnival) offer “Cheers!” package discounts during promotions.

Shore Excursions: DIY vs. Cruise Line

Cruise line excursions are convenient but overpriced. For example:

• Jamaica: Cruise line catamaran tour = $99; local operator = $45.
• Alaska: Cruise line whale watching = $129; independent = $75.

Pro Tip: Book excursions through ShoreTrips.com or local operators at the port. Always check safety reviews first.

Best Budget-Friendly Cruise Destinations and Itineraries

Caribbean and Bahamas: Short and Sweet

3- to 5-day cruises from Florida are the cheapest options:

• Itinerary: Miami → Nassau → CocoCay (Royal Caribbean’s private island) → Miami.
• Cost: $299–$399 per person (base fare).
• Why it’s cheap: High competition, frequent departures, and all-inclusive ports (e.g., Freeport).

Alaska: Off-Season Savings

Alaska cruises drop in price after Labor Day. A 7-day trip from Seattle might cost $599 (vs. $1,299 in July).

Europe: Mediterranean Bargains

MSC Cruises’ 7-day Barcelona-to-Rome itinerary: $349 per person (September–October).

Comparing Cruise Line Costs: Data Table

Cruise Line	3-Day Cruise (Base Fare)	7-Day Cruise (Base Fare)	Gratuities (Daily)	Best Value For
Carnival	$249	$499	$14.50	Short Caribbean trips, families
NCL	$299	$599	$16.99	Flexible dining, longer itineraries
Royal Caribbean	$349	$699	$15.50	Big ships, onboard activities
MSC Cruises	$299	$349	$15.00	European itineraries, kids sail free
Princess	$399	$799	$15.50	Alaska, longer voyages

Final Tips for Booking the Cheapest Cruise Possible

Finding what is the cheapest cruise line to go on requires a mix of research, timing, and flexibility. Start by setting a budget (e.g., $500 per person for a 7-day trip), then use price-tracking tools to monitor fares. Target off-peak seasons, shorter itineraries, and older ships. Always read the fine print: some “deals” have strict cancellation policies or exclude taxes/fees.

Remember, the cheapest cruise isn’t just about the lowest fare—it’s about maximizing value. Carnival might have a $249 base fare, but if you spend $200 on drink packages and excursions, the total cost rises. Conversely, NCL’s $299 fare with a “Free at Sea” open bar offer could be a better deal for social drinkers. Prioritize what matters most to you: onboard amenities, destination, or included perks.

Finally, don’t overlook the human element. Travel agents often have access to unpublished rates, group discounts, and free upgrades. And if you’re a senior, student, or military member, always ask about special rates—many lines offer 10–20% off. With these strategies, your dream cruise isn’t just affordable—it’s within reach. Bon voyage!

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the cheapest cruise line to go on for budget-conscious travelers?

Royal Caribbean and Carnival Cruise Line are often the cheapest cruise lines for budget travelers, offering frequent sales, short itineraries, and affordable base fares. Look for last-minute deals or repositioning cruises to save even more.

Which cruise lines offer the best value for the lowest price?

Carnival, Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL), and MSC Cruises consistently rank among the cheapest cruise lines with all-inclusive perks like free kids’ programs and flexible dining. Their newer ships also offer modern amenities without premium price tags.

Are budget cruise lines less safe or lower quality?

No—cheaper cruise lines like Carnival and Royal Caribbean meet the same international safety standards as luxury brands. While decor and dining options may be simpler, core services and onboard safety remain top-notch.

How can I find the cheapest cruise line deals?

To find the cheapest cruise line offers, book during wave season (January-March), opt for shoulder seasons, and use price-tracking tools like Cruise Critic or Vacations To Go. Interior cabins on older ships often yield the lowest prices.

Do the cheapest cruise lines have hidden fees?

Some budget cruise lines charge extra for specialty dining, drinks, and Wi-Fi, but most disclose these fees upfront. Read the terms carefully and consider package add-ons to avoid surprise costs.

What is the cheapest cruise line for families?

Carnival Cruise Line is the cheapest cruise line for families, with free kids’ clubs, family cabins, and frequent discounts. Royal Caribbean also offers affordable family-friendly sailings with splashy onboard activities.