Here is How You Can Score Cabin Upgrades These Days!

Editorial Summary

Gary Benridge explains how cruise cabin upgrade strategies have changed due to ships sailing at high capacity. He notes that traditional methods, such as asking guest services for upgrades while onboard, are becoming less effective because ships are often full. Instead, he recommends booking during key sales periods like wave season, end of quarter flash sales, or Black Friday to secure promotions where booking one grade guarantees a higher one. Another significant method is bidding for upgrades, which typically occurs about a month before sailing. Benridge advises travelers to check cabin availability before bidding and to avoid bidding on solo cruises where costs are based on double occupancy. He also suggests looking into repositioning cruises or off-season sailings to access higher grade cabins at lower prices. While auto upgrades and fare tracking are becoming less reliable, he mentions them as secondary options. Finally, he highlights Holland America's Club Orange program as a specific way to secure a guaranteed stateroom upgrade while gaining additional perks.

Written by TripBacon from this video's transcript.