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If you’ve spent any time browsing cruise deals in January, you’ve probably seen the term wave season pop up everywhere. It sounds a bit mysterious, but it’s actually one of the best times of year to book a cruise.
Wave season is the cruise industry’s version of a January sale. Cruise lines launch their biggest promotions of the year, travel agents get very busy, and savvy cruisers start locking in trips for the year ahead.
But, it’s actually more than just discounts.
When Is Wave Season?
Wave season usually runs from January through the end of March.
It kicks off right after the holidays, when people are dreaming about sunshine and something fun to look forward to. Cruise lines know this, so they go big with offers to capture that post-Christmas wanderlust, and for another reason too…
Some of the strongest deals tend to appear in January and February, but promotions can roll right through March.
Why Do Cruise Lines Push Wave Season So Hard?
Contrary to marketing, at its core, wave season is about cash flow.
Cruise lines have huge running costs year round, whether ships are full or not. By encouraging people to book early in the year, they bring in a large injection of cash that helps fund operations for the months ahead.
Those early bookings help cruise lines:
- Cover day-to-day operating costs
- Pay for fuel, staffing, food, and port fees
- Invest in marketing, refurbishments, and new ships
- Smooth out revenue for the rest of the year
Even when cruises are booked far in advance, deposits and early payments give cruise lines the financial breathing room they need. In return, they’re willing to offer stronger incentives to tempt cruisers into booking early.
It’s a win-win. Cruise lines secure predictable income, and cruisers get access to better perks, wider choice, and more flexible booking options.
Is Wave Season the Cheapest Time to Book a Cruise?
Not always, and this is where it gets interesting.
Wave season is usually the best time for choice and perks, not always the absolute cheapest fare. If a sailing isn’t selling well later on, prices can drop closer to departure. But by then, cabin choice can be limited and popular itineraries may already be sold out.
If you want:
- A specific ship
- A particular cabin type
- A popular itinerary or peak date
Wave season is often the sweet spot.
Who Benefits Most From Wave Season?
Wave season is ideal if you:
- Like to plan ahead
- Want a balcony or suite
- Are cruising in school holidays or peak summer
- Want added extras without paying full price
- Are booking a longer or more expensive cruise
First-time cruisers also benefit, as many wave season offers make it easier to try cruising without piling on extra costs.
Should You Book During Wave Season?
If you already know you want a cruise, wave season is usually a smart time to book.
You get:
- The widest selection of sailings
- The best chance at bundled perks
- Lower deposits and more flexible offers
My advice is to focus less on the headline discount and more on the overall value. A “free drinks” deal can easily save hundreds over the course of a cruise.
