The Insider Tip for Scoring a Cruise Upgrade at a Lower Cost

Who doesn’t enjoy getting more value for their money? This is especially true for enthusiastic travelers seeking upgrades.

Not too long ago, cruise upgrades were largely dependent on loyalty and chance. However, many cruise lines now provide guests the opportunity to bid on available unsold cabins at reduced prices (similar to how airlines offer discounts on business and first-class seats). This system allows cruise companies to generate extra revenue while making room for easier-to-sell lower-priced cabins, giving travelers a shot at upgraded lodging for a bargain.

Here’s everything you should know about bidding for discounted cruise cabin upgrades.

What is the process for bidding on cruise upgrades?

Although different cruise lines have unique names for their bidding programs (such as Level Upgrade, RoyalUp, and MoveUp), they all function similarly, as they are operated by a company called Plusgrade (the same bidding service used by airlines).

In the weeks and months prior to a sailing (typically before the final payment deadline), cruise lines may send out emails inviting guests to place bids for upgrades. However, if you don’t receive an email, cruisers can visit the upgrade bidding page on the cruise line’s website and enter their reservation number to get started.

The exclusive sundeck located in the Retreat area on Celebrity Cruises, featuring ample seating and a red-and-white theme.

Upgraded cruise cabins often include additional perks—for instance, booking into the Retreat on Celebrity ships grants access to a private restaurant, lounge, and sundeck.

Ryan Wicks/Celebrity Cruises

Typically, the cruise line will provide brief descriptions and images of the available room upgrades, and you can place bids on as many categories as you wish—don’t worry, you can only win once. After that, you’ll need to enter your credit card details. If your bid is accepted, the amount will be automatically charged.

After submitting your bid, watch your email for updates from the cruise line. You might hear back immediately, or it could come on the day of departure. Most cruise lines permit you to adjust or withdraw your bid within a certain period before the bidding window closes (which varies by company), but once your bid is accepted, you cannot change your mind.

Typically, there’s a minimum bid amount set by the company, so you can’t simply offer five dollars for an upgrade. Keep in mind that bidding for an upgrade is essentially a gamble. While many passengers have successfully obtained upgrades at significantly lower prices, there’s no guarantee that your bid will be accepted. If your bid doesn’t succeed, you will still stay in the cabin you originally booked.

What are the costs associated with bidding for a cruise upgrade?

There’s no specific amount that will guarantee you an upgrade—it all hinges on the bids of others.

When placing your bid, take into account factors such as the current availability of higher-tier cabins (the more available, the better your chances), the popularity of your sailing date, and the likelihood of other passengers also bidding for upgrades. Generally, even bidding slightly above the minimum can significantly enhance your chances.

While being competitive is essential, make sure not to bid more than what the upgraded cabin is worth to you. It's crucial to check the current price of that category before bidding, as you could unintentionally bid more than the original selling price of the room.