Repositioning cruises almost always offer good value for money. Because they are less popular than round-trip voyages and visit fewer ports, the cruise lines usually sell then for much less on a per-day basis. But if you know when to book, you might save even more — as much as 70% off the already-low brochure rate.

Cruise ships have fairly sophisticated inventory management systems. And when certain benchmark dates are reached, if too few passengers are booked, the price is reduced. An empty cabin doesn’t generate any revenue. So it’s worth it to reduce the price of the stateroom to attract a passenger who might gamble, drink, and dine in the specialty restaurants.

Many cruise ships offer repositioning cruises.

Several years ago, cruise lines offered their best deals in the form of early booking discounts. In return for having your deposit as much as a year in advance, cruise companies would give early birds a discount. Back in those days, marketing materials had to be created months in advance. And special offers were established according to a fixed schedule.

But today, cruise lines can market specific cruises online, which reduces the amount of lead time required for marketing campaigns. With a healthy list of email addresses, a cruise line can decide on Wednesday to discount a cruise on Thursday. And on Friday, savvy travelers who have given up their email addresses can get really impressive repositioning cruise deals.

If there’s one particular cruise line that you like, sign up for any email updates or e-newsletters that they offer. Registering with an online cruise agency is also a good idea. Vacationstogo, Travelzoo, and Shermans Travel all have hot deals.

A repositioning cruise gives you plenty of time to enjoy onboard amenities.

As a rule, the best deals are available 30 to 90 days before sailing. But in some cases, you may be able to get a bargain as much as six months before departure.

Be sure to take advantage of any shipboard credits that are offered. These are often worth up to $1,000 per stateroom and use can use them to offset the cost of almost any service available on board.

Although airfare isn’t often included with repositioning cruises — because two point-to-point fares are usually required — be sure to ask if any discounted airfares are available. This can end up saving you quite a bit.

Before you book, be sure to shop around. If there’s a cruise agency in your town, give them a call. If you live in a big city, check your local, Sunday newspaper. And visit the cruise line websites.

With any luck, you’ll be able to land a repositioning cruise for less than $100 per person, per day.

Many cruise ships offer repositioning cruises Image Flickr: Salicia
A repositioning cruise gives you plenty of time to enjoy onboard amenities Image Flickr: Tom Mascardo 3

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