Carnival Announces “Early Saver” Fares

On Monday, January 12, Carnival Cruise Lines will launch a new cruise pricing option called Early Saver, which will offer fares as much as 25 percent lower than our best generally available rates! Early Saver also provides rate protection if rates later drop below what was originally paid. This will allow you to book early on Carnival with more confidence!

The Early Saver rate protection feature provides that if a lower Carnival advertised rate becomes available after the booking is made, a rate adjustment can be requested and we will issue the difference in the form of a non-refundable shipboard credit. The lower fare must be for the same ship, sailing date, stateroom category and number of guests. This definitely makes booking Carnival cruises early more attractive, and will change my view of "when to book" for Carnival giving them a nod for booking early rather than waiting until late for the best possible fares. (See my article on "When to Book Your Cruise" for more information on my opinions on when to book each line in the current economic circumstances)

Early Saver rates will be offered on virtually all sailings up to three months prior to sailing date for cruises of five days or less and up to five months prior to sailing date for longer length voyages, subject to availability. Early Saver fares include all stateroom types, including suites and allow you to choose a specific stateroom.

There is one significant quirk in that Early Saver deposits are non-refundable, and this does make a difference in your decision-making process, and makes trip insurance, whether traditional or with cancel for any reason coverage, much more important.

Of course, traditional booking options, with fully-refundable deposits, but less certain protections for fare reductions, also will remain.

If you have questions about this new program, or want to discuss when to book for next cruise for your best advantage, just email me! I'm happy to discuss the options with you so you can make the decision right for you.