What Black Friday Cruise Deals Looked Like Last Year
Cruise offers in 2025 ran in varying windows, often November into early December and sometimes longer. Norwegian Cruise Line announced 50% off all cruises plus the return of its Free at Sea package, which covers extras such as drinks, Wi-Fi, dining and excursions. Royal Caribbean offered up to $1,000 off, with a third and fourth guest free and extras at 50% off.
Carnival advertised low fares from about $170 per person plus deposit discounts. Holland America had up to 30% off with free gratuities and third and fourth guests free. Virgin Voyages offered up to 80% off the second guest and drink credits. Other lines added onboard credit, kids sailing free or reduced deposits.
No confirmed 2026 cruise Black Friday offers had been found as of late October.
How To Pick The Right Cruise Deal
Percent-off headlines and free-extra bundles can lead to different totals. Line up the deals on equal terms.
| Deal Type | What To Check |
|---|---|
| Percent off fare | Applies to the base fare, not taxes, fees or gratuities. |
| Free extras package | Look for exclusions on peak seasons, ships and itineraries. |
| Third and fourth guest free | Only helps if you travel as a group of three or four. |
| Reduced deposit | Check whether it is refundable and when final payment is due. |
| Onboard credit | Spendable only on the ship, so value it below cash. |
Total up the full cost of your cabin with taxes and port fees, then subtract the value of perks you would use. A smaller fare cut with free drinks can beat a bigger discount with nothing included.
When Do Cruise Deals Drop?
Black Friday 2026 is November 27 and Cyber Monday is November 30. Last year's cruise windows varied by line but clustered in November and early December. Some lines announce their Black Friday sales only days ahead, so no 2026 cruise dates are confirmed yet.
Book-by dates and cabin availability limit most sales, so if a particular sailing matters to you, be ready to check the day the sale goes live.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is 50% off a cruise the final price?
No. Percent-off cruise deals typically apply to the fare, while taxes, port fees and sometimes gratuities are extra.
What does Free at Sea include?
Norwegian's package last year covered extras such as drinks, Wi-Fi, dining and excursions, with exclusions that vary by sailing.
Are cruise deposits refundable on Black Friday?
Not always. Deposits on sale fares can be non-refundable or reduced, so read the terms.
Have 2026 cruise Black Friday offers been announced?
Not as of late October 2026.
