Meet Janessa, the Cruise Specialist at J.Upton Travel, and discover why cruises are one of the easiest, most enjoyable ways to explore multiple destinations with minimal stress. Learn why Wave Season in January is the best time to book a cruise, offering the best pricing, perks, and availability throughout the year.
Hi! I’m Janessa, and I am SO excited to introduce myself as a Cruise Specialist with J. Upton Travel. If you love the idea of seeing multiple destinations without having to unpack more than once and actually relaxing while you travel, you’re already my kind of person.
Why I Love Cruises
Cruises are one of the easiest and most enjoyable ways to travel. You get incredible destinations, world-class dining, entertainment, and built-in downtime, all without the stress of planning every tiny detail. It’s the kind of vacation where you can truly unplug and be present.
I don’t know about you, but I’m definitely the kind of girl who needs to plan ahead. With it being a new year, the perfect time to plan ahead for your next cruise is NOW. One of my favorite travel “resolutions”? Always have a cruise booked!
Having a cruise on the calendar gives you something to look forward to and work toward- whether your goals this year include getting healthier, spending more intentional time with family or friends, or simply enjoying life a little more. Cruises naturally encourage movement, connection, and memorable experiences, all wrapped into one easy vacation.
Why January Is the Best Time to Book a Cruise
January through March is known as “Wave Season” in the cruise industry. It’s the biggest, most important booking window of the year—and for travelers, it’s when the best deals happen.
During Wave Season, cruise lines release their strongest promotions and incentives, which often include:
- Lower cruise fares
- Reduced deposits
- Onboard credit
- Free upgrades
- Bonus perks like beverage packages or specialty dining
This is when cruise lines compete the hardest for bookings, which means you win.
The same cruise that might cost more later in the year can often be booked during Wave Season for significantly less and with added value. Plus, this is when availability is at its best, so you get first pick of the most desirable staterooms and sailing dates.
In short: booking in January doesn’t mean traveling in January. It means booking smarter for the months ahead.
Plan Your Next Cruise
As your cruise specialist, I’ll help you choose the right cruise line, itinerary, and timing to match your travel style, so your vacation feels effortless from start to finish.
👉 Ready to start planning?
Contact J. Upton Travel today to begin designing a cruise you’ll be excited about all year long.
FAQs
1. Why should I book a cruise in advance?
Booking a cruise early allows access to the most desirable staterooms, preferred sailing dates, and exclusive perks that often disappear closer to departure. Advance planning also creates a more relaxed experience, with time to thoughtfully select dining, excursions, and onboard experiences—turning your cruise into something truly special to look forward to.
2.Are cruises a good option for first-time luxury travelers?
Yes! Luxury cruises are an excellent intro to elevated travel. They offer attentive service, refined dining, beautifully designed ships, and curated experiences, all while keeping the logistics simple. It’s a comfortable, seamless way to explore multiple destinations without the stress of constant planning.
3.Are cruises suitable for couples, families, or small groups?
Absolutely! Cruises are ideal for couples seeking relaxation, families looking for quality time, and small groups celebrating milestones. Luxury cruising allows everyone to enjoy shared moments while still having space to unwind independently, creating a balanced and enjoyable experience for all.
4.What are the benefits of working with a cruise specialist?
Working with a cruise specialist means you receive expert guidance, personalized recommendations, and thoughtful planning from start to finish. I help you navigate options, secure the best value, and handle the details—so your cruise feels effortless, refined, and truly enjoyable.
📸 Follow Along on Instagram for behind-the-scenes of my own cruise experiences, as well as providing inspo for your next cruise adventure!
