Table of Contents
Introduction
Relaxing on a cruise ship, sipping a drink, and enjoying the view while someone else handles all the navigation is a dream for many travelers. Cruises remain a popular choice for vacationers, offering a variety of destinations and experiences. However, finding an affordable cruise can be a daunting task. In this article, we will explore some of the cheapest cruises in the world, allowing you to book a budget-friendly vacation without compromising on quality.
1. MSC Cruises
MSC Cruises has emerged as one of the most affordable cruise lines in recent years. They offer cruises in various locations, including Northern Europe, the Mediterranean, Egypt, New England, Canada, and the Caribbean. MSC Cruises also provides enticing deals, such as select destinations and packages that include Wi-Fi, drinks, and $200 onboard credit. Their Kids Sail Free program, which allows minors under 18 to sail for free when sharing a cabin with a parent, makes MSC Cruises an excellent choice for families.
- Most affordable destinations: the Mediterranean and the Bahamas
- Pricing: Some two-day cruises start as low as $49/person
2. Carnival Cruise Lines
Carnival Cruise Lines is well-known for its accessible pricing, especially for US-based customers. With ports in major coastal states like Florida, New York, and Texas, Carnival offers convenient departure points, particularly for those residing close to Miami. Carnival Cruise Lines provides three to four-day cruise deals starting as low as $199/person, making it an excellent option for budget-conscious travelers.
- Cheapest departure points: Miami, New Orleans, and Galveston
- Lowest prices: Three to four-day cruise deals as low as $199/person
3. Royal Caribbean
Royal Caribbean is another cruise line that offers some of the world’s cheapest cruises. With a wide range of destinations, including Alaska, Mexico, and the Caribbean, Royal Caribbean caters to various travel preferences. Their lowest prices start at $199/person for four-day cruises and $419/person for seven-day deals. Additionally, Royal Caribbean is known for its innovative ships, which feature amenities like ice skating rinks and bumper cars, making it a popular choice for both families and adult passengers.
- Most affordable destinations: Alaska, Mexico, and the Caribbean
- Lowest Prices: Four-day cruises as low as $199/person, with some seven-day deals starting at $419
4. Norwegian Cruise Line
Norwegian Cruise Line offers a wide range of packages, including perks like free or discounted drinks, specialty dining options, excursions, and even free flights. They provide fantastic deals, such as three-day Caribbean cruises starting at $169/person, seven-day cruises in Saudi Arabia and the UAE for $299/person, and Asian destinations like Singapore or Thailand for as low as $319/person. Norwegian Cruise Line has been voted “Best Family Experience” by Travel Weekly, making it an excellent choice for families.
- Notable perks: Free at Sea package includes benefits like unlimited open bar, 3rd and 4th guests cruise for free, and free airfare
- Activity highlights: Voted as “Best Family Experience” by Travel Weekly
5. Princess Cruises
Princess Cruises is a mid-range line known for its higher quality compared to budget lines. While the brand tends to come with a higher cost, great deals can still be found. Princess Cruises operates in almost every part of the world, offering a wide range of destinations. Their cruises are particularly enjoyable for romantic couples, including weddings and vow renewals. While finding bargains may require some effort, the payoff can be significant.
- Most affordable destinations: Pacific Northwest at $169 and Australia for $138
- Highlights: Rated “Best Shore Excursions” by Cruise Critic, Affordable Wi-Fi packages
6. Holland America Line
Holland America Line offers incredibly cheap cruises to destinations across the globe. They also have a Kids Cruise Free perk, allowing minors under 18 to cruise for free when booked as a third or fourth passenger for trips in Europe, Alaska, and the Caribbean. Similar to Princess Cruises, Holland America Line is relatively more upscale than some prominent budget lines. However, with proper research, great deals can be found.
- Best deals discovered: full-week getaway cruises in the Caribbean as low as $564
- Notable perks: some packages include kids cruise free deals and $500 airfare credit
7. P&O Cruises
P&O Cruises, a British line, offers ships both new and old with cruises that vary greatly in price. The company regularly updates its website with the latest offers, making it easy to find great deals. Many three-to-five-day European tours with P&O Cruises are notably low-priced. Additionally, some select cruises offer the perk of a third and fourth adult cruising for free when staying in the same cabin as the primary two passengers.
- Most affordable destinations: Belgium, Amsterdam, and Netherlands for as low as $329/person
- Fun features: Christmas cruises, Solo traveler-oriented cruise experiences
8. Celebrity Cruises
Celebrity Cruises is an ambitious line that travels to all seven continents, with some trips stopping at as many as eight countries in one journey. This company regularly provides great deals on Alaska and Galapagos tours. They offer a variety of multi-day Caribbean destinations in the mid-$200 – $400 range. Celebrity Cruises also provides options like the All Included package, helping passengers save hundreds of dollars onboard.
- Fun features: Specialty cruises like culinary cruises and LGBTQ+ cruises
- Free perks onboard: Free ice cream, live theater shows, fitness center
9. Costa Cruises
Costa Cruises is a consistently affordable yet positively reviewed line based in Italy. While they primarily focus on Euro-centric cruise offerings, they also cater to the perpetually popular Caribbean market. Multiple-day outings in Western Europe, the Caribbean, and even South America can be found in the $200 – $400 range, with some as low as $209.
- Most affordable destinations: Italy, Spain, Brazil, the Caribbean
- Fun features onboard: Disco, piano bar, library, and card room
10. Margaritaville At Sea
Margaritaville is not only a popular restaurant but also hosts a 3-day getaway cruise from Palm Beach, Florida, to Grand Bahama Island. This cruise offers activities for the entire family, including live entertainment and buffets. Additionally, Margaritaville At Sea has a Heroes Sail Free program, allowing military veterans, first responders, and teachers to cruise for free.
In conclusion, affordable vacation spots can be found on cruise ships worldwide. From MSC Cruises to Margaritaville At Sea, there are options for every budget and travel preference. By researching and taking advantage of the various deals and perks offered by these cruise lines, you can embark on a budget-friendly cruise without compromising on quality or experience.