Wave Season Preview – Big Cruise Deals Coming in January
Wave Season is almost here, and if you’re thinking about cruising in 2026 or early 2027, January is your time to shine. Cruise lines are gearing up for their biggest promotion window of the year, and that means incredible deals, limited-time perks, and early access to the most sought-after sailings.
Read on to discover what Wave Season is, why 2026 will be a major year for cruise bookings, and how to make the most of this once-a-year booking opportunity with Avoya Travel.
What Is Wave Season?
From January through March each year, cruise lines launch their most competitive offers across a wide range of itineraries. This period, known as Wave Season, is when:
• Fares drop to some of the lowest prices of the year
• Cabin upgrades become more widely available
• Perks like onboard credit, drink packages, and free Wi-Fi are added in
• Deposits are reduced to help you lock in your vacation for less
Whether you’re booking a quick island escape or a once-in-a-lifetime world cruise, this is when cruise lines roll out the red carpet for travelers ready to plan ahead.
Why Wave Season 2026 Will Be Big
With 2026 itineraries already on sale and strong travel demand continuing, the upcoming Wave Season is expected to be one of the most valuable in recent years. Here’s why:
• Best pricing of the year: Booking in January helps you avoid price hikes later in the season
• More bundled perks: Look for promotions that include drink packages, Wi-Fi, onboard credit, and more
• Wider selection: Booking early means more choices for cabins, itineraries, and sail dates
Early 2026 Cruise Deals Already Available
Some of the Wave Season-style promotions for 2026 are already live, and they hint at the exceptional value coming in January:
• Some cruise lines are already offering early discounts for 2026 trips. One example is a Princess Cruise 7-night Western Caribbean cruise in January 2026 showing fares as low as about $248 per person for an inside cabin.
• A 12-night Eastern Caribbean Cunard Cruise Line itinerary departing February 19, 2026, is currently listed at about $1,469 per person for an inside cabin, with taxes and port fees included
• Azamara’s 2026–2027 winter sailings include a 20% early booking bonus and additional perks such as drink packages, Wi-Fi, and onboard credit
These early deals show that Wave Season savings are already in motion, and more offers will surface soon.
How to Prepare for Wave Season 2026
Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you get the most out of this season’s promotions:
1. Know your destinations and preferred travel windows
Think about where you want to cruise in 2026 or early 2027. Popular destinations include the Caribbean, Alaska, Europe, and Hawaii.
2. Set your budget and prioritize perks
Decide which extras are important to you, like drink packages, Wi-Fi, or cabin upgrades. This helps you compare offers more effectively.
3. Monitor early offers and stay in touch with your Personal Travel Advisor
Some promotions are already live. Let your planner know your preferences so they can alert you when matching deals appear.
4. Be ready to act quickly
The most desirable sailings and cabins go fast during Wave Season. Once you find a deal that works, book it before it’s gone.
5. Use expert guidance to maximize value
An Avoya Personal Travel Advisor can help you combine cruise line deals with agency-exclusive perks for unmatched value.
Top Destinations to Watch for Wave Season 2026
Certain cruise destinations are expected to be especially popular this year, so booking early is crucial:
• Caribbean – a perennial Wave Season favorite
• Alaska – balcony cabins fill fast for summer 2026 sailings
• Mediterranean & Greek Isles – timeless cultural and coastal appeal
• Hawaii & South Pacific – ideal for longer tropical escapes
• Expedition Cruises – Antarctica, Iceland, and Greenland are trending for adventurous travelers
Why Book Your 2026 Cruise with Avoya Travel
When you book with Avoya Travel, you gain access to:
• Exclusive bonus perks available only through Avoya
• Full access to numerous cruise line’s Wave Season deals
• A dedicated Vacation Planner who will monitor promotions and recommend the best time to book
• Support from planning through post-cruise follow-up, so your entire trip is seamless
Final Takeaway
Wave Season 2026 is shaping up to be one of the most valuable cruise booking windows in recent memory. Whether your dream getaway involves warm Caribbean waters, majestic Alaskan fjords, or far-off expeditions, January is your chance to plan ahead and secure unbeatable value.
Let a Personal Travel Advisor help you navigate your options and find the perfect offer for your next cruise. Don’t wait for prices to rise or cabins to sell out. Start planning now and be ready to ride the Wave.
Get ready for Wave Season with expert guidance and early access to the year’s top cruise deals. A Personal Travel Advisor can help you navigate offers, compare cruise lines, and book your dream vacation before the best perks sail away. Let’s make your next cruise unforgettable.
