The travel blog
Trip reports, honest reviews, and points & miles news from around the world — written after actually staying, sailing, and flying.
When Is the Best Time To Book a Cruise?
Book early on a refundable deposit, then use Black Friday and wave season to reprice. A travel agent's guide to every cruise booking window.
Black Friday Cruise Deals: What To Expect and How To Shop Them
Black Friday 2026 is November 27. Here is what cruise lines offered last year and how to judge whether a sale price beats what you would pay otherwise.
Cruise Wave Season Explained: When It Is and Whether the Deals Are Real
Wave season runs January through March, when cruise lines launch their biggest sales. Here is what they offered in 2026 and how to tell a real saving from a relabeled one.
Cruise Price Drop After Booking: How To Get the Lower Fare
How to claim a lower fare when your cruise price drops after booking, including Royal Caribbean's Best Price Guarantee, Carnival's Early Saver price protection, and what changes after final payment.
Cruise Deposits and Final Payment Dates by Cruise Line
Deposit amounts and final payment dates for Royal Caribbean, Carnival, Disney, Norwegian, Celebrity, MSC, Princess, Holland America, and Virgin Voyages, plus the stricter 2026 changes to know before you book.
Cruise Cancellation Policies by Cruise Line
The penalty schedules for Royal Caribbean, Carnival, Disney, Norwegian, Celebrity, MSC, Princess, Holland America, and Virgin Voyages, including the stricter rules several lines introduced in fall 2026.
