22 First-Class Cruise Perks You Can Get Without Paying First-Class Prices

2. Travel Off-Season and Snag Suites for the Price of Standard Rooms

Timing is everything when cruising. Book during “wave season” (January through March) or shoulder seasons like late October to early December or after spring break ends—and you can score rooms that normally cost thousands for a fraction of the price. It’s not unusual to see suites and spa cabins listed at oceanview or even interior rates. Destinations like the Caribbean, Mediterranean, and Alaska often have less demand during these months, which means not only cheaper fares, but also fewer crowds, more attentive service, and easier reservations at specialty restaurants and onboard events. Even excursions are sometimes discounted during these periods. Want to stretch your dollar even more? Combine off-season booking with an all-inclusive cruise line or a flash sale (more on that next), and you could be cruising like royalty at backpacker prices.