Norwegian cruise — Providence, RI

The cheapest months for cruises generally fall outside of peak travel times. Think September through November, and then again from January to February. During these periods, demand for Norwegian Cruise Line voyages tends to be lower, leading to better pricing. Avoiding school holidays and summer vacation months is your best bet for finding a deal.

This budget will typically cover the cruise fare, but remember to budget extra for flights to your departure port, onboard gratuities, drink packages, and any shore excursions you plan to take.

When looking for the most affordable cruise line, brands like Carnival and MSC often have lower base fares. However, Norwegian Cruise Line frequently offers excellent value through their 'Free at Sea' promotions, which can bundle in perks like specialty dining or drink packages. The best value for a Norwegian Cruise often comes down to these added benefits.

For the absolute lowest base fares, Carnival or MSC Cruises are often good places to start. However, for overall value, Norwegian Cruise Line frequently provides competitive pricing with added incentives. When comparing, always factor in what is included in the base fare for a Norwegian Cruise to get the true cost of your vacation.

Top Norwegian Cruise Line itineraries often include their 7-day Caribbean sailings from Florida, as well as their popular Alaska voyages. European cruises, like those in the Mediterranean, are highly sought after. For shorter trips, consider their Bahamas cruises. For a unique experience, their repositioning cruises can also offer great value and destinations.