What to Know About Wave Season 2025
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Wave season is the cruise industry’s version of Black Friday—except the deals last multiple months instead of a few days. Typically kicking off in January and lasting through March, this is the time of year when cruise lines offer their steepest discounts and promotions. As such, wave season is considered the best time to book a cruise if you’re after more affordable fares.
Wave season was originally created to boost cruise sales during what was historically a slow period for the industry. But this year, with record booking levels and avid cruisers reserving their voyages further in advance, wave season deals are being rolled out earlier—and selling out sooner.
“Wave season began in late December and continues to ramp up now that we are in the New Year,” explains Condé Nast Traveler travel specialist Jennifer Greene of MEI Travel. “Every cruise line offers different deals from prepaid gratuity to onboard credits and money off their cruise. Each week the deals change, but with the surge in cruise demand, it is best to book early to get the best pricing and availability.”
The types of cruise deals offered during wave season vary depending on cruise line size and type. Luxury lines, like Regent Seven Seas Cruises, Silversea, Oceania, and Scenic, are offering discounts on suites in addition to onboard credits this year, Greene says. Meanwhile, river cruise lines such as AmaWaterways are offering free pre-night hotel stays. Wave season deals for smaller expedition cruises are more rare due to their niche clientele, she adds.
The best wave season deals are typically offered by larger ocean-going cruise lines including Royal Caribbean International, Celebrity Cruises, Disney Cruise Line, and Norwegian Cruise Line. This year, major lines like these are advertising fare discounts, low deposit offers, “kids sail free” deals, and onboard perks like beverage packages and free Wi-Fi, Condé Nast Traveler travel specialist Michelle Allen of Travel Magic says.
So which deals have the best value? While that depends on your personal travel preferences, the biggest bang for your buck can often be found in BOGO fares (which offer discounted rates on a second, third, or even fourth guests) and kids sail free promotions, Greene says, noting that a high onboard credit allowance doesn’t necessarily equate to getting the best fare.
While wave season does typically last until early spring, if you’re interested in the best stateroom options or concierge-level suites, plan to book early (as in right now), Allen advises. “The discounts at Disney have been out for a week with limited availability already,” she says.
Greene agrees: “I anticipate that the family cruises will sell quickly, especially any with a kids sail free or discounted offer.”
Originally Appeared on Condé Nast Traveler
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