A great vacation doesn’t have to cost a fortune. In fact, you don’t have to spend over $500 on these cruises, which will take you to the Caribbean, Mediterranean, and lots of dreamy places in between. Bonus: some are on new ships! Here, five cruise deals under $500 to snap up now.
5-day US and Canada Pacific on Norwegian Bliss
Why It’s Great: You can be one of the first to set sail on Norwegian’s newest ship when it launches next year — and snag a price you probably won’t see again on a brand new build. Bliss will have all the bells and whistles of the line, including some Broadway-worthy stage shows. Plus, the itinerary — from Vancouver to Los Angeles with stops in Victoria and San Francisco — is convenient for West Coast cruisers.
Price: $ 449 for an inside cabin or upgrade to ocean view for $529
Date: Sept. 30, 2018
6-night Western Caribbean on Carnival Horizon
Why It’s Great: There’s nothing like cruising on a shiny new ship for under $500. Horizon, also launching next year, will feature the line’s newest features like an IMAX, sky-high pedaling track, and a Dr. Seuss water park. And the itinerary (roundtrip from Miami) hits some of the most popular Caribbean spots, including Ocho Rios, Grand Cayman, and Cozumel.
Price: $444 for an inside cabin or upgrade to ocean view for $649
Date: Jan. 20, 2019
7-night Eastern Mediterranean on Rhapsody of the Seas
Why It’s Great: Cruising in the off-season not only means a low fare, but also cuts the crowds. That’ll be a welcome relief on this itinerary, as you sail roundtrip from Venice, stopping in Dubrovnik, Kotor, Santorini, Katakolon, with two days at sea. And bonus: you also get 50 percent off a second guest, 25 percent off a third guest, and free fare for kids on this sailing when you book before August 31.
Price: $449 for an inside cabin or upgrade to ocean view for $549
Date: Nov. 24, 2018
7-night Eastern Caribbean on MSC Divina
Why It’s Great: You’ll sail roundtrip from Miami to Philipsburg, San Juan, and Nassau in style on this ship. MSC Divina, which launched just five years ago, has cool features including an Eataly steakhouse, water park, and cool aqua cycling classes plus a LEGO partnership for kids (if they’re under 11, they’ll sail free).
Price: $409 for an inside cabin or upgrade to $559 for an ocean view
Date: Dec. 9, 2017
4-night Mexico on Emerald Princess
Why It’s Great: Ideal for a quick post-Thanksgiving getaway, this sailing takes you roundtrip from Los Angeles to Santa Barbara and Ensenada for just $82 per day. On the ship — refurbished in 2015 — you'll find a bustling piazza with live performances, a restaurant by celebrity Chef Curtis Stone, and a relaxing spa-like adults-only enclave called The Sanctuary.
Price: $349 for an inside cabin or upgrade to an ocean view for just $50 more at $399
Date: Nov. 25, 2018