Quick answers on river cruise specials and how to judge them.
River Cruise Specials FAQ
Can I combine two river cruise specials?
Sometimes. A public special may combine with a past-guest saving or a group rate, but two public specials usually do not stack. Ask for the price with every eligible offer applied.
What if a better special appears after I book?
Ask straight away. Some lines will re-price before final payment, some will give a credit, some will not change anything.
Is onboard credit as good as a discount?
Only if you would spend it. On an all-inclusive river line there may be little to spend it on.
Is a free upgrade a real saving?
It is if you would have booked the higher cabin anyway. If not, compare the lower cabin’s fare on its own.
Why does this site list no current specials?
Because they change constantly. Current offers are on Wave Season and Cruising for Less; we explain how to judge them.
How long do river cruise specials last?
It varies. Some run for a season, others for a few days around a sale event. The end date is in the offer terms; ask your advisor before it lapses.
Can a special be withdrawn after I book?
Once your booking is confirmed under a special, the terms you booked under normally stand. Keep a copy of the confirmation that names the offer.
Do specials include flights?
Only the ones that say so. Air-inclusive specials are explained on our airfare page, including how to value them.
Do specials apply to every cabin?
Often not. Many specials are limited to certain cabin grades or sailings, so check the exact category before you count the saving.
Are specials better for some rivers than others?
Busy rivers with many ships, such as the Rhine and Danube, tend to see more offers. Our sister site Best River Cruise Deals sorts offers by river and year.
Do I pay more booking through an advisor?
No. Lines pay advisors a commission, and public specials apply either way. An advisor may also find group or past-guest savings you would miss on your own.
What is a reduced deposit worth?
It lowers the money you put down to hold the cabin, not the fare. It is valuable for securing a sailing early, but check whether it is refundable.
Who books my cruise?
Our cruise advisors at Mister Cruise, after comparing the options with you.
Upgrade offers are explained in more depth on Cruise Upgrades.
Ask About Any Special
Our cruise advisors at Mister Cruise will tell you whether an offer is worth taking and send free quotes.
Ask Our Cruise Advisors