2016/2017 cruises on sale already!

Well……time really does fly by very quickly. I can’t believe that the main launch of next Summers cruises from the big players is almost upon us.

 Celebrity were extremely quick off the mark and released their sailings right up to April 2017 ready for the peak January & February booking period. A canny move to capture those uber-organised people who want to know exactly what they will be doing in over 2 years time!

Fred Olsen have just released their offerings for 2016, giving free gratuities if booked by the 31st of May, plus buy 3 cruises pay for 2. This always proves to be a popular campaign amongst the many loyal Fred Olsen guests.

Royal Caribbean last week released their Caribbean itineraries and the European ones (along with the rest of the world) are due to launch this week,with much excitement about the brand new Oasis Class ship, Harmony of the Seas. The new ship will sail out of Rome & Barcelona. They have announced that they will be offering their All Inclusive promo once again for a limited period which gives you their Select drinks package plus gratuities, although this is not valid on China sailings or the Anthem of the Seas. The 2 ships that will be based in Southampton are the much-loved Independence of the Seas along with Navigator of the Seas.

With this in mind it can’t be very long until P&O and Cunard announce their launch dates. I know P&O have been very busy with the launch of the beautiful looking Britannia and showing hospitality to Her Maj, but that is now last weeks news and they will be looking to concentrate on capturing as much business for next year before their customers decide to ‘jump ship’ and book with another cruise line.

All the cruise operators like us to get excited about these launch offers and some people have to book early to get the right cabin. 3 and 4 berth family cabins get booked up very quickly in school holidays and adapted cabins for wheelchair users are few and far between on many ships, however booking early doesn’t always mean you get the best deal.

What do you think? Are you a last-minute booker or do you like to plan and book early?