I want to share a recent Cruise Critic article with you because it has a lot of important points about the realities of booking a cruise these days. 

Here's my take-away from this article:  don't wait for 'The Deal to Eclipse Any and All Other Possible Deals' when you're ready to book a cruise! 

Why?  There are almost always promotions (early booking incentives!) & great deals to be had if you book your cruise 9-12 months in advance.  If you wait, you risk facing:

-Rising cruise fares (Carnival & NCL raised their in Spring 2010-others will follow!)
-Fewer deals/promotions (the cruise lines WANT you to book early, so they can plan better, so their early booking incentives are generally the best!)
-Losing your preferred stateroom category & location

Cruises are still a great deal for your vacation dollar and a wonderful way to eliminate lots of the hassles of vacationing.  Your onboard activities, meals (including room service!), select beverages, entertainment, and accommodations are all included in the price.  Plus, unpack ONCE, and visit multiple destinations in one vacation!  Generally, you pay a deposit of around $100-300 per person, then your final payment isn't due until 90 days prior to sailing.

Want to sail for free (except for taxes)?  Then organize a group cruise, where generally every 16th berth (bed, so basically half a stateroom) is FREE!  A group is a minimum of only 8 staterooms  at double occupancy, which is perfect for family reunions, couples' getaways, multiple families vacationing together, etc. 

A good deal isn't a good deal if it isn't the right cruise line, itinerary, and stateroom category for YOUR needs!  Let me help! :)