The cruise industry's most anticipated event is approaching—Wave Season—a three-month window from January to March when booking rates drop, offering incredible deals for travelers. Wave Season 2025 promises to be even more significant, as the cruise sector continues its post-pandemic rebound. But with the excitement of discounts and perks, you might be wondering: Can you save money and still make environmentally responsible choices?
As someone who’s worked for a cruise line and written extensively about travel for over 24 years, I’m here to share insider tips on getting the best bargains during this peak booking season, while also making greener decisions.
1. When Should You Book for the Best Deal?
Wave Season is known for its discounts, but you don’t have to jump into booking as soon as the clock strikes midnight on New Year’s Eve. Bargains are available throughout the entire three-month period, and sometimes, additional promotions are added as the season progresses. It’s a myth that the best deals are only available at the start of the year.
Booking early is a good strategy, especially if you're planning for 2025 cruises, but you should be wary of booking far in advance. Cruise lines often open bookings years before departure, and while it may seem tempting to lock in your dates early, discounts are typically steeper for sailings within 12 months. So, for the best rates, aim for a sailing that departs soon—but not too soon!
2. Last-Minute Deals: Worth the Risk?
Although it’s possible to find excellent last-minute deals, these typically come with limitations, like restricted cabin choices or less desirable travel dates. However, for travelers with flexible schedules, waiting until a few months before departure might result in some fantastic offers, especially if you can manage a sailing that still has plenty of open cabins.
I’ve personally come across amazing deals, such as MSC Cruises offering balcony cabins for as little as £50 (€60) per person per night just a couple of months before departure. However, keep in mind that these low prices usually come with extra charges for onboard activities like spa treatments, specialty restaurants, and drinks.
3. Are You Really Getting a Bargain?
Cheap cruises may seem like a steal, but often, they come with hidden costs. While the onboard experience is generally enjoyable, some amenities may require additional fees. You might pay for drinks beyond the basics (water, coffee, tea, juice), access to exclusive restaurants, or spa treatments. If you’re not careful, your low-cost cruise might become a financial pitfall as you’re constantly asked to pay extra for activities.
For those who are willing to pay a little more upfront, many cruise lines offer all-inclusive packages that can help you save in the long run. For example, drinks packages and specialty dining are often more affordable if booked ahead of time. This way, you can enjoy your cruise without worrying about constant add-ons.
4. Booking Directly vs. Using a Travel Agent
If you’re used to booking travel independently, you may be wondering if using a travel agent for a cruise is worth it. In many cases, a travel agent can provide additional discounts, exclusive deals, and expert knowledge that you may not find online. Agents can also bundle your cruise with flights and other services, often resulting in savings and a seamless experience.
Additionally, travel agents can help you navigate Wave Season’s complexities—sometimes helping you secure a better deal than what you find on popular booking sites.
5. Traveling Responsibly: Is It Possible to Combine Savings with Eco-Conscious Choices?
One of the most important factors to consider while booking your 2025 cruise is how to reduce your environmental footprint. Cruise ships have long been criticized for their impact on the environment, but many lines are making strides toward sustainability. Fortunately, there are tools available to help you make informed decisions.
Eco-Friendly Cruise Filters: Websites like Iglu Cruise and CruiseCritic now allow you to filter cruise lines based on sustainability practices. For example, you can prioritize ships that use shore power (which reduces their reliance on fuel while in port) or have advanced wastewater treatment systems.
Friends of the Earth (FOE) Cruise Ship Report Card: This report card ranks cruise lines based on four key environmental criteria: sewage treatment, air pollution reduction, water quality (scrubber use), and transparency. It’s a straightforward way to compare the eco-performance of different ships. Look out for A or Brated ships if you want to make a responsible choice.
While many lines tout the benefits of LNG (Liquefied Natural Gas) powered ships, it’s important to be cautious—LNG isn’t the cleanest fuel alternative, and some ships continue to produce significant methane emissions.
6. How to Be Environmentally Friendly While Onboard
Once you’re onboard, there are several steps you can take to minimize your environmental impact:
Pack Light: Reducing your luggage will help reduce the weight of the ship and its fuel consumption.
Conserve Water: Be mindful of water usage on board. Cruise ships often rely on desalinated water, making it a precious resource.
Recycle and Reuse: Many ships now offer recycling programs, so make use of those. You can also help reduce waste by reusing towels and bed linens when possible.
Pace Yourself at the Buffet: Cruises often generate significant food waste, so try not to overindulge at the buffet. Enjoy smaller portions and reduce waste when you can.
7. Loyalty Rewards: Can Your Cruise Line Loyalty Save You Money?
Loyalty programs are a great way to maximize savings. Many cruise lines offer repeat travelers significant discounts, onboard perks, and exclusive offers. If you’ve cruised before, consider booking with the same line to take advantage of loyalty rewards.
Additionally, travel agents may be able to combine your loyalty perks with ongoing Wave Season promotions for an even better deal.
How to Get the Best of Both Worlds
Wave Season 2025 is the perfect time to book a cruise, with savings on fares, free perks, and additional discounts. However, as cruise options continue to grow, it’s essential to balance your desire for a bargain with an eco-conscious approach. By using the right tools, being mindful of extra charges, and choosing more sustainable cruise lines, you can enjoy the best of both worlds—an affordable cruise and a responsible travel experience.
Source: Euronews
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