📅 86% of 2025 Cruises Are Already Sold Out! Here’s Why You Should Book Now.

Paige Evatt
Jun 16, 2025
2 min read

The Cruise Comeback Is Real

Remember when cruises were half-empty and deals were everywhere?

Not anymore.

As of mid-2025, a whopping 86% of Royal Caribbean’s 2025 inventory is already sold and we haven’t even hit wave season yet. If you’ve been waiting for a better price or debating between two dates, consider this your gentle nudge (or loud airhorn): book your cruise now.

Spacious cruise ship junior suite with ocean view balcony, where a married couple relaxes outside with a sea view. — Suite life is selling fast. Balcony cabins like this are in high demand for 2025 sailings.

Why the Rush?

Here’s what’s driving the demand:

Post-pandemic travelers are making up for lost time - many are booking not one but two cruises per year.
Cabin categories that sleep 3-4 people are among the first to go, making it tough for families or groups to book last minute.
Suite life is booming - luxury-level cabins are selling out far earlier than they used to.
Cruise lines have gotten savvier with pricing, so the “wait and grab a deal” method doesn’t really hold water anymore.

Will Prices Drop If I Wait?

Short answer: not likely.

Longer answer: even if they do, you’ll probably have fewer cabin choices and limited dining/show times.

The “deals” that pop up tend to be for inside cabins or less popular itineraries. If you want a balcony in a prime location or you’re picky about dates it’s smarter to lock in your price now while there’s still flexibility.

View from a boardwalk balcony stateroom on Royal Caribbean’s Allure of the Seas, overlooking interior ship areas and colorful onboard attractions. — Boardwalk balcony aboard *Allure of the Seas* - a smart pick for guests who want a private balcony with vibrant ship views generally at a lower price point than ocean-facing rooms.

What If I’m Not 100% Sure Yet?

Good news: most cruise lines offer refundable deposits and change-friendly options that let you tweak dates or itineraries later. Some even offer price protection if the rate drops after you book. The earlier you reserve, the more control you have.

Who Should Still Wait?

Waiting might make sense if:

You’re flexible with dates.
You’re not particular about your cabin location or type.
You love the thrill of a last-minute deal (just don’t expect champagne on ice waiting for you).