When purchasing a cruise vacation, getting a good deal is the top priority for a majority of travelers. And Black Friday can be a good time book a cruise — if you know what to watch out for.
A new survey from travel insurance marketplace InsureMyTrip[1] found that 58% of travelers were most excited by scoring a deal when booking a cruise vacation. Discounts proved more popular than finding a cruise that spent more time at port than at sea (28%) and having updated WiFi technology on board (10%).
For these travelers, it may pay to book a cruise this weekend, especially if it will be a holiday gift for a loved one. “We are seeing some Black Friday rates around last-minute ranges — with some fares coming in at under $70 per night,” said Colleen McDaniel, Editor-in-Chief of travel website Cruise Critic.
Also see: How ‘dry docking’ could ruin your $10,000 cruise vacation[2]
Here are the best cruise deals available on Black Friday and Cyber Weekend
Princess Cruise Lines is running two different “Cyber Event” offers[3]. The “Sail Soon” deal includes up to 40% off select cruise itineraries and free WiFi for all guests in the stateroom (limited to four devices per room.) The “Sail Later” offer, meanwhile, includes up to $800 in on-board spending money (depending on the size and location of the stateroom and number of guests traveling together), a free room-location upgrade, two bottles of wine at specialty dining locations and up to $200 off airfare to cruise launch locations. This second promotion also includes free WiFi for one guest, limited to four devices.
Norwegian Cruise Lines NCLH, -1.83%[4] is running a deal for Black Friday[5] only where travelers can get 30% off all cruises they purchase. Travel packages booked on Black Friday will include other free add-ons including free open bar and WiFi packages, free specialty dining and free shore exclusions. Kids can also travel free for families who book on Black Friday.
Carnival Cruises CCL, -0.31%[6] is offering up to 30% off cruises[7] through Dec. 1 for sailings beginning February 2020 and beyond. The deal also includes a two-for-one offer on deposits, up to $50 in credits for on-board purchases, discounts on room upgrades and free price protection.
Royal Caribbean RCL, -1.06%[8] meanwhile is offering a Black Friday deal where when one guest pays full price, the second...