October Cruise News
Oct 05, 2025 3:20 pm
Wow - Where did the Summer Go? I went to Greenland.
Here it is October and the focus forward is on the holidays. This becomes a busy time of year for many. I hope there is some time left for youself to enjoy the festive season.
What are the trends in cruising? Three things come to my mind.
1) Cruise Lines are recording their biggest profits ever. In recent earnings reports for the third quarter, the profits have been huge. As a matter of fact, the biggest profits ever recorded.
2) 40% of all cruisers are first time cruisers. Ships are sailing full and frequently offer the third and fourth person in a cabin to sail for free. This has brought a lot more families aboard for the family vacation.
3) Ships are changing their pricing structures. If anyone cruised 20 years ago, they may remember there was a cruise fare and everything else was additonal like beverage packages, wifi (which was non existent) and gratuities and no specialty dining because the dining room served amazing meals and midnight buffets. Then the trend went to bundling and adding specialty dining for a fee. Virgin Voyages just released their new pricing structure which goes back to ala carte pricing with different levels of amenities. I expect this to spread to other lines. Royal Caribbean is pretty much an ala carte cruise company as well.
What does this mean for you the cruise enthusist? Plan - plan - plan. While many may feel there are last minute deals and will wait to book. Think again. Finding the cabin location and the best pricing for a voyage you want to take is best acheived by early booking. Many cruise lines are releasing itineraries into 2028. There are plenty of the newest cruisers who are now planning well in advance. They are getting the best pricing and best cabin locations. Secure your best price with a refundable deposit.
Keep in mind, that Cruise Brothers has group space pricing - which is in limited supply. When we sell our space and discounted pricing it is gone. But this is the way to get the best cruise values too. For example Celebrity offers our group space that includes wifi and a classic beverage package which is cheaper than if you booked on their website. Plus this month they are currently offering Bonus Onboard credit for new bookings to the Caribbean. This is a limited time offer.
Cruise pricing has also risen. As your travel advisor I can guide you into a cruise vacation and get the best price. I will never quote you a price that has a non refundable deposit. I value your vacation experience and don't want to put your money at risk. If you shop around to other sites, please contact me to see if I can offer you better pricing and service.
Finally, some personal great news. The Star Princess just started her inagural season from Barcelona two days ago. She will then head to Ft Lauderdale on Oct 22, which I will be aboard. Then on Nov 6, the ship will have its Naming Ceremony. I have been invited to the ceremony! The godparents for the Star Princes will be Camila and Matthew McConaughey. I have always wanted to see the champagne bottle hit the hull. I will be sure to let you know how this goes.
As you gather with friends and family, start talking about a reunion, start talking about a featured destination and where you want to travel next. If you do not start that conversation, I can tell you that there are many many others who are talking and booking. Don't let your friends try to book their own travel, because the forever changing landscape of cruising can be treacherous. What looks like a deal could have many pitfalls. I gladly accept referrals and don't hesitate to forward this email to friends.
Cheers
Kathy Hays