What The Heck Is Wave Season

Jan 22, 2016

What the heck is wave season?

In simple terms, Wave Season is like Black Friday -- except three months long, and for cruises.

Wave Season rolls ashore (pun intended) in January and runs until March – conveniently after the holiday buzz has died down and when consumers have extra time to focus on their travel plans for the coming year. As a result, the cruise lines concoct their most aggressive deals at this time to incentivize travelers to get onboard.

Hands down, Wave Season is the best time of the year to book a cruise. With access to many diverse offers, Wave Season enthusiasts (that’s you!) can expect to see not only hot fares, but extra perks such as:

  • Onboard credits
  • Prepaid gratuities
  • Unlimited drinks
  • Specialty dining packages
  • Shore excursions

Many cruise lines are even giving guests a choice of these amenities, understanding that every traveler’s vacation needs are different. Booking early in Wave Season also allows guests to have first pick of the best cabins.

Although last-minute sailings are typically part of the deal, Wave Season is more designed for people planning their vacations far ahead of time -- the rewards are certainly worth the wait.

Find great cruise deals in our Collections page.

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