How far in advance do cruise lines set there schedules?

[cman67]

I'm planning a family vacation for Jan 2013 and have a question. Since there are a lot of families involved we need to plan this far in advance.

 

We've already searched and found a number of cruises scheduled for 1/2013. Can we assume that more will be added over time or so the cruise lines already know exactly what they will be offering this far in advanced. We haven't found one the fits everyones needs. We hope more will be added over time.

 

How far in advance should we consider that what we see listed is all there will be?

 

Thanks!

[cherylandtk]

Release dates vary by cruise line, so it depends on which lines you are looking at. In a very broad sense you should see most listings for Jan 2013 by fall of 2011. Destination can also impact when the announcement is made, not all schedules are issued at the same time.

[Keith1010]

Yes, while some cruise lines have released their schedules for part or all of 2013 many have not. The timing of these schedules does vary by cruise line. Just keep checking the respective cruise line web sites.

 

Keith

[CruiserBruce]

Cruise lines generally put out schedules about 18 or 20 months in advance of the start of a "season". In some rare cases, cruises are out up to 24 months in advance. If you are looking at Jan 2013, I would think you are looking at the Winter Caribbean season, which runs from Oct to April.

 

I would say by later this summer- say August, everyone will have their schedules out, and you will see a comprehensive listing.

 

You can get ideas by looking at this winter's schedule. While they will be some minor changes, you can start looking at likes and dislikes, so when the schedules are out, you will already have some info.