Cruises are not only a fantastic way to travel but also offer incredible value for money—if you know how to find the best deal. At Deal Wombat, we’ve personally taken dozens of cruises and know the local market inside out.
It is absolutely possible to find cheap cruises from Australia for as little as $100 per person, per day. Considering this includes your travel, accommodation, all main meals, and entertainment, it’s unbelievable value.
But finding the best cruise discounts isn’t always straightforward. This guide gives you 11 expert tips and booking hacks to help you find an affordable sailing with maximum savings.
1. Cruise in the Off-Peak "Shoulder" Seasons
It’s no surprise that cruises departing during peak periods—like Christmas, New Year, and the January school holidays—have inflated price tags. You’ll also see prices jump over the Easter break.
For a real bargain, book during the quieter “shoulder seasons” of October, November, February, or March. The weather is still fantastic for local itineraries to Queensland or the South Pacific, but the prices are significantly lower.
2. Book Early or Last-Minute for the Best Deals
This is a vital booking strategy. As a general rule, you either want to be the first or the last to book.
- Book Early:Prices are usually at their lowest when released, often 12-18 months in advance.
- Book Late:If a ship has many unsold cabins in the final 60-90 days before departure, cruise lines often slash prices for last-minute cruise deals to fill spots. This isn’t practical for everyone, but the savings can be huge.
3. Keep an Eye Out for Major Cruise Sales
Most major cruise lines hold regular sales events. For example, Royal Caribbean recently offered up to $600 onboard credit and 60% off a second guest, while Carnival often has deals with fares from just $59 per day on short sailings. Signing up for their newsletters is a great way to be notified of these promotions.
4. Use Australian Travel Package Websites
Booking through a third-party travel deals website can deliver huge savings. Local Aussie favourites like Luxury Escapes and TripADeal often offer package deals for less than what cruise lines charge directly, sometimes claiming savings of over 50%.
5. Talk to a Specialised Cruise Travel Agent
Don’t underestimate the value of a good travel agent. Agents who specialise in cruises can sometimes access exclusive rates.
6. Join a Cruise Line's Loyalty Program
If you enjoy a particular cruise line, join its free loyalty program. After your first cruise, you’ll start earning benefits. Popular programs for Australians include:
- Royal Caribbean’s Crown & Anchor Society
- Carnival’s VIFP Club
- Princess Cruises’ Captain’s Circle
Return cruisers can get exclusive discounts, free drinks, and other onboard perks.
7. Book an Inside Cabin for the Cheapest Fare
While a balcony is lovely, an inside cabin is almost always the cheapest option. For shorter cruises (7 nights or less) from Sydney or Brisbane, an inside cabin is a smart way to save hundreds of dollars that you can spend on shore excursions instead.
8. Bid for a Discounted Cabin Upgrade
If you book a basic Inside or Ocean View cabin, you may get an email inviting you to bid for an upgrade. If the sailing isn’t full, you could potentially score a Balcony cabin for as little as an extra $100 per person. This is a fantastic hack for getting a premium experience on a budget.
9. Get a Bargain by Sailing on an Older Ship
Flashy new ships come with premium price tags. You can often have a very similar experience on an older (but well-maintained and often refurbished) ship in the same fleet for a fraction of the cost.
10. Book Your Next Cruise While You're Onboard
If you’re enjoying your holiday, visit the “Future Cruises” desk on the ship. They offer powerful incentives like hundreds of dollars in free onboard credit if you book your next trip before you disembark.
11. Pay with a Travel Rewards Credit Card
Using the right credit card to book your cruise could earn you a significant number of reward points. Furthermore, some premium travel credit cards include complimentary cruise insurance, saving you the hassle and cost of buying a separate policy.
FAQ's - Finding Cheap Cruises From Australia
What is the cheapest month to go on a cruise in Australia?
The cheapest months are typically the “shoulder seasons” outside of major school holidays. Look for deals in February, March, October, and November for the best prices.
Which cruise line is the most affordable in Australia?
While prices vary, Carnival Cruise Line is generally considered among the most budget-friendly options, especially for short cruises to the South Pacific or along the Queensland coast. But Royal Carribbean can also offer some great-value fares.
How can I find cheap last-minute cruises in Australia?
Check major cruise agency websites in the 90 days leading up to a departure date. Cruise lines with unsold cabins will often release them at a deep discount to fill the ship.
Are drinks included on cheap cruises?
Generally, no. Your cruise fare includes tap water, basic tea, and filtered coffee. Soft drinks, barista-made coffee, and alcoholic beverages are usually an additional cost unless you purchase a drinks package.
