Best Time to Book a Cruise? It’s probably now

If you are thinking about booking a cruise but want the best value, the time to book is probably now. The beginning of the year, between Christmas and early March, is when many cruise lines offer their best promotions, a time known in the travel industry as Wave Season.

Cruise popularity is at an all time high. There are also more destination options, cruise types, and ship choices than ever. Some cruise lines are adults-only while others cater to families. Some are luxury with butler service while others are more casual. Hot destinations include Antarctica exploration cruises, European river cruises and more remote places like the Australian Kimberley region.

A travel advisor can help you assess destination, cruise lines and all of the choices that go into booking a cruise from which ship to choose to which cabin to select. They also frequently have access to additional perks that aren’t available when you book direct.

Here are WAVE offers from just a few of the cruise lines we work with:

• Viking Cruises: Is currently offering free international airfare, $25 deposits and your choice of either a $1,000 shipboard credit or a free beverage package with included gratuities

• Princess: is offering up to 40% off cruise fares on 17 ships, free room upgrades, $99 deposits  and free sailings for 3rd and 4th guests in the same stateroom

• Celebrity Cruises: is discounting up to 75% off a second guest

• AmaWaterways River Cruises: Complimentary land packages and reduced airfare

• Explora Journeys: is offering up to 40% off journey fares, plus up to $1,000 in Destination Experience credits and 10% reduced deposit

• Silversea: is offering up to $5,000 savings per suite

• Virgin Cruises is offering 80% off a second sailor and free drinks

Contact Songline Travel to find the destination and cruise that’s right for you. Call or text at 210-413-1581 or email mary@cozytravelagency.com.

Travel News: New UK Entry requirements

Jan. 8, 2025 - Beginning today, all non-UK citizens must apply for and obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) for travel to the United Kingdom (UK). Travelers will need an ETA regardless of how long they are staying or their reasons for travel, including simply connecting through a UK airport.

Inbound travelers to the UK can apply for an ETA online or via mobile app. The application takes only a few minutes to complete and costs 10 pounds (approximately $12.56 USD). Applications will be processed automatically, and authorization should be received within 3 business days.