Cruise Shoulder Season: Fewer Crowds, Lower Prices

Everyone likes to get the best deal for their money, and cruises from Galveston are no exception! So you ask, ”What is the cheapest month to go on a cruise from Galveston?  

That answer is shoulder season. Shoulder season for cruise bookings is the time of year when cruisers seek to travel because of the numerous opportunities that aren’t as apparent or readily experienced during regular and peak cruise seasons.

Depending on the region, spring shoulder season occurs in April and May, and fall shoulder season occurs in September and October. It’s during these times that cruise bookings are lower for the general population due to work, school, and other obligations.

For this reason, this affords first-time cruisers and general cruise-goers an advantageous opportunity to enjoy cruise-ship life and cruise destinations more thoroughly!

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​Shoulder Season is Worth Considering 

During shoulder season, there will be fewer cruise passengers. You can embark and disembark with relative ease because of a reduced crowd. For the general cruise-traveling population, shoulder season is not ideal for their schedules, so more cruisers book during peak seasons.

Shoulder season cruisers can enjoy cruise life with easier access to elevators, shore excursions, and dining. The reduced crowd also may equal reduced cruise fare, but with the probability of fewer destination choices and limited shore excursion options.

However, there is an opportunity to add-on niceties, like cabin upgrades and specialty dining, that you may normally exclude from your budget. So, book early and sooner rather than later, with the cruise line or your travel agent, to secure your preferred cruise vacation at the best value.

Isn’t this “Hurricane Season”?

You might think and say, “Wait, isn’t this close to and during hurricane season?” Technically, yes, but cruise lines have been creating cruise itineraries and booking cruise passengers for decades during the shoulder season, and they route and re-route cruise destinations accordingly.

With this in mind, cruise passengers should remain flexible, as unpredictable weather could revise a preferred itinerary, a sought-after port location, a shore excursion, or cancel the cruise entirely. For the most part, the temperatures are relatively cooler than peak seasons.

Yes, the weather will be warm, but it will pale in comparison to peak season travel temperatures. When packing, plan for at least one, if not more, for a rainy day.

If it does rain and excursions are cancelled, enjoy your cruise ship! There is an abundance of activities, food, and relaxation all within elevator and walking distance, and hardly anyone aboard!

If you are still undecided about booking a cruise from Galveston during shoulder season, think of your budget. Most cruise travelers also enjoy more economical travel in the shoulder season compared to other peak seasons.

Shoulder season may allow cruisers to experience overall lower travel costs. Not only will cruise fares potentially be reduced, but airline and hotel fares may be lower with fewer travelers as well! Click here for the most current seasonal cruise fares.

Are Cruises Affordable?

Ready to cruise from Galveston, but still don’t know if you can afford it? Cruising out of Galveston can be affordable! 

Depending on the type of cruise you choose, the cruise destination(s), when you decide to travel, the number of passengers in your cabin (room), your cabin type, and what additional amenities (if any) you select, your cruise can range from affordable to expensive based on your preferences and budget.

How Can I Afford a Cruise?

Many cruisers planning a future cruise from Galveston begin to save, setting aside money months in advance from each paycheck into a savings account they designate specifically for their cruise.

Also, many choose to weigh their options of eating out less and cutting back on nonessential expenses.

Every bit saved helps when there is a cruise goal in sight! If you choose to pay in full for your cruise, be sure to periodically check for price decreases as the cruise date approaches and contact the cruise to ask if they will honor the newly listed sales price for your existing booking.

Do Cruise Lines Offer Cruise Financing?

Yes, some cruise lines offer financing through third-party lenders. Cruise lines also offer options for making payments on cruises.

To make payments, potential cruise passengers start by making a down payment specified by the cruise line. Subsequent cruise payments may require that a percentage of the cruise be paid at different intervals, and the final payment on a specific date.

If payments are not made, this will forfeit your cruise booking and, if you chose a stateroom, your preferred cabin.

When are Cruises on Sale?

Cruises from Galveston are on sale at various times. It is best to regularly check cruise fares to receive the latest promotional offers for your preferred cruise lines. Generally, cruises have the lowest fares during off-peak, shoulder, and wave seasons.

If you’re ready to cruise from Galveston, start saving and consider the various financing options that suit your needs!

Bon Voyage!