Best time to book??

[gfs1ram]

I am sure this question must have been asked many times before but only joined CC today and relatively new to Cruising. Booked a 'getaway' fare on the QE last October -Venice, Istanbul, Athens - and a great time had by all. Looking to book again on the QE and have been tracking some 'Getaway' fares for a little while. Example North Cape Cruise on the 26th May was I believe offered at £1299 for a Balcony in February when the 'Getaway' prices were released but now I see the same deal is being offered at only £899 !!! That is a big saving and even more so compared with the Vantage fare of £2099. You would have thought that the early Getaway fares would have been less - increasing as they fill the cabins nearer to departure. This suggests however that leaving a booking to around 6 week prior to departure can save a lot of money. Is this the norm? Has anyone else encountered this. Would have been very annoyed if I had paid £1299 in February !!!

[Scrapnana]

Welcome to Cruise Critic!

 

Those "Vantage" and "Getaway" fares have been discussed often. Many have complained about how booking early does not really help in getting a good price. Seems that waiting (if you can) is the way to go. No doubt you will get lots of interesting responses.

[BlueRiband]

Welcome to Cruise Critic. Fare pricing is what we Americans call "a game of chicken" - which side is going to give in and cower first.

 

Fares are driven by the popularity of the itinerary. A lot of unsold staterooms and prices fall, a lot of early bookings and prices rise. Some members have reported price changes while in the middle of a browsing session! So apparently Cunard uses an algorithm that automatically adjusts pricing to booking demand.

 

A lot depends on how flexible you can be both in timing and in cabin availability. If you are retired you may be able to wait until just days before the voyage and pick up a good bargain. If you are working you probably have less leeway. Wait, wait, and wait and your fare can go up and you are left with the not so desirable stateroom locations. Or your voyage and/or category could simply sell out.

 

Somebody who must get their vacation time approved months in advance may have to pay the ₤1299 or risk the later situation. But is you can wait for the ₤899, and if it sells out you will just wait for another sailing, good for you.