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Are you ready to escape the winter blahs? This is your lucky day. With the cruise industry’s WAVE season deals, which run until the end of February, typically, you can snare some of the best deals of the year.

You can save on most everything from cabin upgrades to kids free to on board credits and more. Sail soon or plan for next summer or even into next year.

“The good news is that if you missed the deals offered in early December, you’re not too late to score some pretty great savings,” s aid Colleen McDaniel, editor-in-chief of CruiseCritic.com, which posts an ongoing round-up of wave season deals that will continue to be updated through March.

Two tips: A travel adviser who specializes in cruises can help you sift through all of the different options and deals. And you don’t want to leave home on any cruise without travel insurance. Compare different policies (some insure kids free) on InsureMyTrip.com.

There are deals on mega- and medium-sized ships, on river cruises and smaller expedition ships. “Cruising can be a fantastic way to travel with kids to some of the more off-the-beaten path destinations where smaller luxury and expedition ships travel,” noted McDaniel. “The convenience of cruising – from unpacking only once, to having a trusted home base, really shines when it comes to families ... for tweens and teens, these cruises are a great option.”

McDaniel noted that Explora Journeys received Cruise Critic’s ‘Best for Families’ award in the luxury category this year, “as it’s one of the few lines that cater to families and kids onboard – and they do a fantastic job. There’s a kids club on board, plus a wealth of multigeneration-friendly connecting suites that offer special treats for kids – from kid-sized bathrobes to toys.”

Hurtigruten, the undisputed expert on Norway and its stunning coastline, is offering discounts of up to $4,000 off per person during Wave season. Explore gorgeous fjords, visit small, otherwise hard-to-reach towns along the coast, and indulge in locally sourced food. The Svalbard Express is the only sailing linking the Norwegian mainland with the Svalbard archipelago and is timed around the Midnight Sun, whereas the North Cape Express sails during the popular Northern Lights season.

We’re fans of Windstar’s sailing yachts that are as appropriate for those traveling with older or grown kids as for those seeking a romantic getaway. Go to smaller ports and when weather-appropriate, play in the water on kayaks and stand-up paddle boards right from the boat. (We sailed with Windstar in Greece during the p andemic.)

Now through Feb. 29, 2024, Windstar is offering travelers a“Pick Your Perk” deal: one free hotel night (which can be used pre- or post-cruise) or up to $1,000 onboard credit, which can be used for shore excursions, spa services and more. Premium- suite guests can select an upgrade to the all-inclusive fare, which includes all alcohol, Wi-Fi, and all gratuities.

River cruises can also be a great bet for families and multigenerational groups — small enough for kids to have the run of the ship; all-inclusive and stops where you simply get off the boat (no long bus rides required).

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