National Cruise Vacation Month FAQ
Quick answers about the month and about planning your next cruise.
Ask for a Free QuoteCommon questions about National Cruise Vacation Month and planning a cruise in the autumn.
National Cruise Vacation Month FAQ
When is National Cruise Vacation Month?
October. CLIA moved the campaign from February to October in 2005, and October has been associated with cruise planning ever since, including under the name National Plan a Cruise Month.
Are there special deals in October?
Sometimes. Individual lines and travel agencies may run October offers, and the industry has run sweepstakes in some years, but there is no fixed set of discounts. Check WaveSeason.com for current promotions.
Is October a good month to take a cruise?
Yes, for several regions: Canada and New England for fall color, the Mediterranean for warm seas and smaller crowds, and long repositioning voyages. The Caribbean is still in hurricane season until November 30, so routes can change.
Should I book now or wait for Wave Season?
If your dates are fixed or you want a specific cabin, booking early is usually wise. If you are flexible, build a short list now and compare Wave Season offers in January.
Do I need a travel agent to take part?
No, but an experienced cruise advisor can compare lines, explain what fares include and watch for better offers. That service from our cruise advisors at Mister Cruise is free to you.
What should I do first?
Decide when you can travel and check that passports are valid. Those two steps rule options in or out faster than anything else.
Where can I learn about my first cruise?
Our sister site First Time Cruise explains the process from booking to disembarkation, and Cruising Checklist has packing and document lists.
Is National Cruise Vacation Month an official holiday?
No. It is an industry promotion created by CLIA, not a government observance. It exists to encourage travelers to learn about cruising and plan trips.
Does the month apply to river cruises too?
Yes. The industry campaign covers all kinds of cruising, and CLIA’s October Cruise Month in Australasia has given river and expedition cruising their own themed weeks. Autumn is also a good time to plan next year’s European river voyage.
What if I want to cruise this holiday season?
Ask soon. Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year sailings are popular with families, and cabin choice narrows as the dates approach. Your advisor can check what remains on the ships you like.
Who handles my quote?
Our cruise advisors at Mister Cruise. Tell us your dates, region and cabin preferences, and they will reply with options and free quotes.
Explore This Site
What It Is
The history of the month and CLIA’s role.
Why Book in Autumn
Five reasons to plan now.
October Planner
A four-week plan from idea to booking.
Fall Foliage Cruises
Canada and New England in autumn.
October to Wave Season
How the two seasons work together.
Ask Us Anything About Your Next Cruise
Our cruise advisors at Mister Cruise will answer your questions and send free quotes.
Ask for a Free Quote