7 Budget-Friendly Cruise Lines That Won’t Break the Bank

Planning a holiday and considering a cruise? You might think that cruises are beyond your budget, but that’s not always the case. There are several cruise lines that offer exceptional value for money, letting you enjoy the high seas without breaking the bank.

Excited man holding money in front of a cruise ship, eager to set sail on a dream vacation.

When you know where to look, you can find fantastic deals on cruises to exciting destinations around the world. From short getaways to longer voyages, these cruise lines provide various options suited for any budget. Exploring these options can help you find the perfect cruise for your next adventure.

1. Costa Cruises

The Costa Deliziosa cruise liner advances across the deep blue sea, its white structure dotted with rows of balconies and the iconic yellow funnel marked with a 'C', evoking the essence of luxury sea travel.

Costa Cruises is known for its budget-friendly options, making it a great choice if you’re looking for an affordable getaway. They offer a wide range of itineraries, giving you the chance to explore various destinations without breaking the bank.

When you book with Costa Cruises, the prices might look low at first glance. However, gratuities are not included in the initial fare. You’ll need to budget for these charges, which are €11 per day for adults and €5.50 per day for children over four years old.

One of Costa Cruises’ highlights is its diverse route options. You can visit places like Athens, Mykonos, Santorini, and Istanbul all in one trip. Costa Cruises often has special deals and last-minute offers, so it’s worth keeping an eye out for those.

The ships may not be the newest on the seas, but they are well-maintained and provide a good experience. You’ll find comfortable accommodations, various dining options and plenty of activities to keep you entertained on board.

If you’re flexible with your dates, you can find some great bargains. For instance, an 8-day cruise from Rhodes to Palma can be as low as $552 per person. This makes Costa Cruises an attractive option for budget-conscious travellers looking to explore multiple destinations.

Recommended reading: The Truth Behind Costa Cruises’ Cheap Fares!

2. MSC Cruises

An MSC CRUISES cruise ship gliding through the ocean as the sun sets, casting a golden glow on the water.

When you’re looking for an affordable cruise, MSC Cruises stands out. Known for their budget-friendly options, you can often find great deals. Their prices are usually about 30% lower than other similar cruise lines.

Despite the low prices, most travellers still have an enjoyable experience. The fleet includes 17 ships, with a mix of older and newer vessels. This variety allows MSC to offer such competitive rates.

MSC’s newest ship, the MSC World Europa, can carry over 6,000 passengers. On the other hand, their oldest ship, MSC Armonia, holds around 2,500 guests. The older ships, in particular, are where you’ll find the best bargains.

If you’re planning a 7-day trip to the Caribbean, MSC Cruises is a great option. You can often find fares around $220 per person per day. It’s an attractive choice for those wanting to explore without breaking the bank.

MSC Cruises also offers many routes. You can sail to the Caribbean, the Mediterranean, and even the Emirates. They provide a variety of packages to suit different needs and preferences. From sunny holidays to cultural adventures, there’s something for everyone.

3. Carnival Cruise Line

Carnival Cruise Line's Carnival Conquest is pictured docked in a bustling port with the clear turquoise sea stretching before it. The ship's distinctive red and blue funnel stands out against the coastal town backdrop, showcasing the vibrant colors and leisurely atmosphere of a tropical destination.

Carnival Cruise Line is one of the most budget-friendly options out there. It offers plenty of deals throughout the year. You can often find discounts of up to 40% off on their cruise rates.

Carnival is known for its fun and lively atmosphere. It’s a great choice if you’re looking for a fun holiday at sea without breaking the bank. The cruise line has a reputation for affordable fares and even has sales offering onboard credit.

When planning your trip, keep in mind that while the initial cost seems low, there are extra fees to consider. Port fees and taxes can add up, but you can still find good deals on older and smaller ships.

Carnival operates a fleet of 24 ships sailing to various destinations, including Alaska and the Caribbean. Whether you’re looking for a quick getaway or a longer adventure, you’ll likely find a cruise that fits your budget and schedule.

Booking a balcony cabin can also be a great deal with Carnival. Prices for these cabins can start well below the usual rate per night, making a bit of luxury more affordable.

If you’re flexible with your dates, you might snag a great deal. Some sales are for select sailings only, so keep an eye out for those opportunities.

More reading: Is the Carnival World Mastercard Worth It in 2025? Here’s the Breakdown

4. Princess Cruises

The Royal Princess cruise ship from Princess Cruises majestically sails the open sea, its white and blue livery glistening under the sun against a backdrop of calm blue waters and a soft sky.

Princess Cruises offers affordable options for budget-conscious travellers. Known for its elegant ships and friendly service, you can find cruises that fit various budgets. Prices can vary widely based on the itinerary and time of year.

You can explore charming destinations like the Mediterranean and Northern Europe. Princess Cruises frequently offer promotions. Sometimes, third and fourth guests can sail for reduced prices, so keep an eye out for these deals.

On board, you can enjoy a wide range of activities and amenities. There are pools, theatres, and various dining options. You’ll also find fun activities for children and adults.

Using a Princess Rewards Visa® Card can also save you money. Earning points through purchases helps you gain onboard credits, which can reduce your costs further.

Princess Cruises offers a luxurious experience at a price that won’t break the bank.

5. P&O Cruises

A P&O Cruises ship docked in calm waters.

P&O Cruises is a popular choice for British travellers. While the lowest prices are less likely to be found on the newest ships in the fleet, such as Arvia and Iona, the older ships are still well-maintained and provide a great experience. P&O’s prices vary considerably, so depending on the destination and the time of year, fares can be quite high. However, there are excellent deals available if you’re flexible with your plans.

For families or groups of friends, consider special offers where the third and fourth guests sail for free when sharing a cabin. This can significantly reduce the overall cost of your cruise.

6. Royal Caribbean

The 'Vision of the Seas' cruise ship glides through calm waters in a fjord, flanked by steep green cliffs and a cascading waterfall, under a partly cloudy sky, evoking a sense of adventure in the Norwegian landscape.

You might be surprised to see Royal Caribbean listed among budget-friendly cruise options, especially considering the high costs of their newest ship, Icon of the Seas. However, this is based on the cheapest available cruises.

Royal Caribbean has many older and smaller ships in their fleet, such as Vision of the Seas and Rhapsody of the Seas. You won’t find the same low prices on the Oasis-class ships, and certainly not on Icon of the Seas. But if you’re looking for a fun-packed cruise, it’s worth checking the cheapest Royal Caribbean options, as you can often find fantastic fares. Just remember that flights can significantly increase the overall cost.

7. Norwegian Cruise Line

The Norwegian Cruise Line Bliss sails through clear blue waters, with green islands visible in the distance. The ship's expansive decks are filled with amenities, including pools and lounging areas, showcasing its luxurious and spacious design against a stunning seascape backdrop.

NCL cruises aren’t the cheapest, but they’re far from the most expensive when compared to luxury cruise lines. Short breaks tend to drive the average prices up, and the newest ships also come with higher costs.

However, it’s important to note that NCL frequently offers deals where your fare includes extras like free drinks, free WiFi, or free excursions. This is crucial to consider when comparing prices.

Finding the Cheapest Cruise Ships

When searching for budget-friendly cruise options, older and smaller ships tend to offer lower prices compared to the newer, larger vessels. Although there isn’t a definitive answer for the cheapest cruise ship in the world, looking at older ships from budget cruise lines is a good strategy. For instance, MSC Orchestra and MSC Opera are among the most affordable ships currently sailing.

The Impact of Ship Age and Size on Cost

The age and size of a cruise ship significantly influence its cost. Generally, older ships are less expensive than newer ones. The reasoning behind this lies in the quality and features of the ship. Newer ships are often better maintained, larger, and equipped with more exciting amenities such as go-kart tracks, virtual reality experiences, and robotic bartenders. Consequently, cruise lines charge more for these enhanced experiences.

In contrast, older ships, even if renovated, can sometimes feel a bit dated and lack the latest attractions. Therefore, cruise lines typically offer lower prices for cruises on these vessels as the overall experience may not be as impressive.

Pricing Factors Beyond the Ship

It’s important to remember that the ship itself is just one factor in the overall cost of a cruise. For example, an inside cabin on a brand-new megaship might be cheaper than a suite on an older, smaller ship. Cruise pricing is dynamic and constantly changing. New itineraries and dates are regularly released, and the cheapest cruises often sell out quickly, leaving other cruises to take their place as the most affordable options.

Value of Short Cruises

Short cruises, those lasting fewer than three nights, are rarely cheaper than around $80 in total. Therefore, securing a three-night cruise for approximately that price (excluding taxes and tips) represents excellent value.

Advertised Prices vs. Actual Costs

When considering the advertised prices of cruises, it’s essential to account for additional costs that may not be immediately apparent, such as taxes and tips. This will give you a more accurate idea of the total expense involved.

Wrapping It Up

Planning a cruise holiday on a budget is definitely doable with a bit of flexibility and research. Older and smaller ships from budget-friendly cruise lines often offer great deals, letting you explore amazing destinations without breaking the bank.

With options like Costa Cruises and MSC Cruises, there’s a budget-friendly cruise out there for you. Keep an eye out for the latest deals and make sure to account for all costs to ensure a smooth and affordable sailing experience.