True LAST Minute cruises?

[Dane1234]

Greetings,

we have every once in a while the possibility to take a last minute cruise, and with that I am thinking of 24-48 hours notice. All the sites I have seen marketed as last minute cruises are 3-12 weeks out, which for me is not a last minute cruise.

We live in Tampa, FL so have the opportunity to be at the port in Tampa in 2 hours, or Orlando (Cape Canaveral) in 4 hours notice.

So two questions:

1) Will the cruise lines advertise some really good deals if there is availability on a ship with very short notice (any of you got some good deals, if so what was it)?

2) Where and how would you find these, travel agent, calling the cruise line, or online?

All inputs are welcome,
thanks...

[Shmoo here]

45 minutes ago, Dane1234 said:

2) Where and how would you find these, travel agent, calling the cruise line, or online?

We once booked a cruise on a Thursday night, departing on Sunday.  Generally, you can book a cruise up until the day before, but usually you'll have to call if it's within 3 days.  

 

We looked it up on line, but had to call to make the reservation.

[Essiesmom]

Sign up for email specials from all of the lines that interest you.  Keep checking the websites for cruises leaving soon from your chosen ports.  And keep an eye on the weather, and natural disasters.  And keep your documents up to date and handy for that last minute trip.

With Carnival, you can call and book in the morning and sail in the afternoon.  Other lines you may have to book the day before.  A few years ago when a hurricane devastated Puerto Rico, Carnival Fascination had nowhere to go, as she was home ported there.  When it became obvious she couldn’t get back there for awhile, they brought her to JAX for a couple cruises, called some casino regulars (it was reported on the Carnival board here) and offered them a free cabin if they could sail that day.  I am not a casino person, but I called and got a really cheap cruise on her out of Port Canaveral.  Keep searching…I would not rely on a TA to find them for you.  EM

[dolittle]

Once booked a cruise on Sat at 1:00 P,M. for the next day . Great price it was out of N.Y., we live in suburban Phila. easy (and cheap) bus ride with Mega . One downside for me was part of a trip for me is planning and research with less than 24 hours I had no time for any of this. Also anticipation and day dreaming about a cruise is a big part of the enjoyment of travel for me I kind of missed this element .Would do it again at the right price .

[Elaine5715]

Google "last minute cruises".  There is a consolidator that sells them