As someone who has taken hundreds of cruises, I’ve learned that scoring a cabin upgrade—without paying top dollar—is an art. Cruise lines may try to upsell you on better accommodations, but with the right strategies, you can enjoy a better room for free or at a steep discount. Here’s how you can make it happen.
1. Book Smart: Timing is Everything
Cruise prices fluctuate based on demand, and so do upgrade opportunities. Booking early or waiting until the last minute can both work in your favor:
- Book Early: Many cruise lines offer early-bird discounts and occasional free upgrades for those who book several months in advance.
- Last-Minute Deals: If you’re flexible, waiting until a few weeks before departure could land you a great upgrade offer at a reduced price.
2. Choose a “Guaranteed” Cabin
When booking, you’ll often see an option for a “guaranteed” cabin in a certain category. This means you agree to take any room within that category (or higher), allowing the cruise line to upgrade you if needed to free up lower-category rooms.
3. Be a Loyal Cruiser
Loyalty programs can be your best friend when it comes to upgrades. If you frequently cruise with the same line, you’ll earn points and status perks, which may include free cabin upgrades or priority upgrade offers. Enroll in the cruise line’s loyalty program as soon as you take your first cruise.
4. Look for Upgrade Bidding Programs
Many major cruise lines, like Royal Caribbean, Norwegian, and Celebrity, have introduced bidding programs where you can place a bid for an upgrade before sailing. This lets you potentially score a higher-category cabin at a fraction of the regular cost.
5. Monitor Price Drops and Ask for an Upgrade
If you book early, keep an eye on cabin prices. If you notice a drop in your category—or even a higher one—call the cruise line or your travel agent to see if they’ll adjust your rate or offer an upgrade.
6. Check for Special Promotions
Cruise lines frequently run promotions that include complimentary upgrades. These deals can often be found during Wave Season (January-March) and other peak booking periods.
7. Travel During Low-Demand Periods
If your schedule allows, cruising during the off-season (such as fall or early spring) means lower occupancy rates, increasing your chances of a free or discounted upgrade.
8. Let the Cruise Line Know It’s a Special Occasion
Celebrating a honeymoon, anniversary, or milestone birthday? While not guaranteed, letting the cruise line know might increase your chances of a complimentary upgrade—especially if you mention it politely when checking in.
9. Book with a Travel Agent
Many travel agents have access to exclusive upgrade deals and perks that aren’t available when booking directly. They can also advocate on your behalf to secure a better cabin.
10. Be Willing to Ask
Sometimes, it’s as simple as asking. When checking in at the port or once onboard, politely ask if any upgrades are available. If rooms are open, you may be offered one at a discount or even for free.
Final Thoughts
While a free upgrade isn’t guaranteed, using these strategies significantly improves your chances of enjoying a better cabin without breaking the bank. Whether it’s through loyalty programs, smart booking, or simply asking, there are plenty of ways to score an upgrade on your next cruise. Happy sailing!
Have you ever scored a cabin upgrade? Share your experiences in the comments!