Wave Season: The Cruise Industry’s Biggest Sale of the Year

Every year, just as the holiday decorations come down and travelers begin dreaming of their next escape, the cruise industry launches its most anticipated promotional period: Wave Season. Running roughly from January through the end of March, this three month window has become synonymous with some of the best cruise deals of the year, drawing both seasoned cruisers and first timers eager to secure value-packed vacations.

Wave Season gets its name from the “wave” of bookings that hits the industry after New Year’s. Cruise lines across the spectrum—ocean, river, and expedition—roll out limited time offers designed to fill cabins for the coming year or two. These promotions often include discounted fares, free onboard credit, complimentary dining, Wi Fi packages, pre cruise hotel nights, and other perks that can significantly enhance the overall value of a trip.

While the exact promotions vary by cruise line, the spirit of Wave Season remains consistent: it’s a competitive, industry wide push to entice travelers with the strongest incentives of the year. Some lines even introduce “stackable” offers, allowing guests to combine multiple perks for maximum savings. For example, Windstar Cruises recently launched what it calls its richest Wave Season offer ever, including all inclusive upgrades and up to $1,000 in onboard credit per guest.

For travelers, Wave Season is more than just a sale—it’s a strategic opportunity. With itineraries often released well in advance, booking during this period allows guests to secure prime cabins, popular sailing dates, and bucket list destinations before they sell out. Travel advisors also benefit, as the surge in promotions gives them powerful tools to match clients with the perfect voyage at the right price.

Whether you’re dreaming of the Caribbean, planning a European river cruise, or eyeing an expedition to Antarctica, Wave Season is the moment to make it happen. With generous incentives and broad industry participation, it remains one of the smartest times of the year to book a cruise—and to start imagining where the waves will take you next.

Call, text or email to plan your next escape today!