Wave Season Explained: Why January Is the Best Time to Book Your 2026 Cruise Vacations
If a 2026 cruise is on your wishlist, January is one of the smartest times to book. Why? Because Wave Season—the cruise industry’s biggest promotion period—typically runs from January through March, and it’s when cruise lines compete hardest for early-year bookings with strong pricing, added perks, and the best availability.
What is Wave Season?
Wave Season (Jan–March) is the peak cruise booking season. Cruise lines roll out limited-time offers designed to encourage travelers to reserve early—especially for popular sailings like spring break, summer, and holiday weeks.
Why January is the Best Time to Book a Cruise
1) Best availability (cabins sell out first—especially the good ones)
Booking during Wave Season gives you the widest choice of:
balcony cabins and suites
mid-ship or preferred deck locations
connecting rooms for families
group cabins and limited specialty categories
As ships fill, prices often rise and cabin choice shrinks.
2) Wave Season pricing can offer better value
Wave Season deals vary by cruise line, but January often brings some of the most competitive offers you’ll see all year—especially on high-demand itineraries.
3) Added perks can make a “good deal” a great one
Many Wave Season promotions include value-adds such as:
onboard credit
reduced deposits
free or discounted upgrades (or better pricing on higher categories)
discounts for the second guest
limited-time perks on select sailings
(Exact perks depend on cruise line, ship, and sailing date.)
How Booking Early Saves Money and Stress
Wave Season is perfect if you want to avoid last-minute chaos. Booking early helps you:
lock in your preferred sailing before it sells out
choose the best cabin category for your travel style
plan shore excursions and onboard dining with less competition
spread payments over time (instead of rushing later)
Top Cruises To Consider During Wave Season
These tend to be especially popular during the January–March booking rush:
Caribbean cruises (Eastern/Western/Southern)
Mexico cruises (Cozumel, Costa Maya, Cabo)
Alaska cruises (peak summer dates fill early)
Mediterranean cruises (limited itineraries + strong demand)
Who Wave Season is best for
Wave Season is Ideal for Travelers Who Want:
the best cabin selection and sailing dates
strong cruise deals and perks
a smooth planning timeline for 2026 vacations
couples, families, and groups who need specific cabin setups
Ready to book your 2026 cruise?
At Oh the Places You’ll Go Travel, we help you compare cruise lines, spot the best Wave Season promotions, and match you with the right ship, itinerary, and cabin—without the overwhelm.
To get started just click the button below and fill out the form and we will get back with you!