Top Inexpensive Cruises in the U.S. This Fall

Discover the best budget-friendly cruises to embark on this fall in the United States. Explore our top picks for inexpensive cruises that offer unforgettable experiences without breaking the bank. Plan your perfect getaway today!

Fitzgerald D. Davis

10/2/20246 min read

photo of white staircase
photo of white staircase

Top Inexpensive Cruises in the United States to Embark On This Fall

Cruising is one of the most luxurious and relaxing ways to explore beautiful destinations, but it doesn’t always have to come with a hefty price tag. Whether you're seeking to escape the autumn chill or enjoy fall’s vibrant colors, cruising offers a perfect getaway with the added bonus of gourmet dining, top-notch amenities, and endless entertainment. Fall also presents opportunities to score great deals on cruises, allowing you to enjoy a high-end experience without the steep cost.

In this blog, we’ll highlight the top inexpensive cruises departing from U.S. ports this fall, complete with onboard attractions, gourmet dining, and exciting shore excursions. These budget-friendly cruises offer all the perks of a luxury vacation at a fraction of the price, making them an ideal choice for travelers looking to maximize value. To book your cruise and plan accommodations before or after your trip, check out [Expedia](expedia.com/affiliates/expedia-home.XNOE0fI), where you can find exclusive offers and discounts.

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1. Carnival Horizon – Eastern Caribbean

The Carnival Horizon is known for its affordability and fun-filled atmosphere, making it a popular choice for budget-conscious travelers. Departing from Miami, this 6- to 8-day cruise takes you to tropical destinations like Grand Turk, Amber Cove in the Dominican Republic, and the Bahamas. Fall is the perfect time to enjoy the warm Caribbean waters and sunny skies, and Carnival offers great value with its onboard amenities and exciting shore excursions.

Attractions: The Carnival Horizon boasts an impressive water park with slides, a ropes course, mini-golf, and even an IMAX theater. Families will appreciate the ship’s diverse entertainment options, including live shows, comedy clubs, and kid-friendly activities.

Gourmet Dining: Carnival's “Your Time Dining” allows flexibility, with a variety of culinary options, including Guy’s Burger Joint, BlueIguana Cantina for Mexican flavors, and the Fahrenheit 555 Steakhouse for more refined dining. Food lovers can also enjoy the Seafood Shack, offering fresh lobster rolls and fried shrimp.

To plan your cruise and find affordable accommodations in Miami before your departure, visit [Expedia](expedia.com/affiliates/expedia-home.XNOE0fI).

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2. Royal Caribbean’s Freedom of the Seas – Bahamas & Perfect Day at CocoCay

Royal Caribbean’s Freedom of the Seas offers an inexpensive yet exciting 3- to 4-day cruise to the Bahamas, including a stop at the private island of CocoCay. Sailing from Miami, this cruise is a fantastic option for those looking for a quick and affordable fall getaway. With its revamped amenities and family-friendly atmosphere, this cruise packs a lot of fun into a short trip.

Attractions: CocoCay is a highlight of this cruise, with its waterpark, zip line, and private beach cabanas. Onboard, guests can enjoy rock climbing, ice skating, and lively entertainment such as Broadway-style shows and themed parties.

Gourmet Dining: Freedom of the Seas offers several dining experiences, from casual buffets to fine dining. Savor fresh sushi at Izumi, enjoy Italian classics at Giovanni’s Table, or opt for a gourmet steak at Chops Grille. There are also plenty of grab-and-go options at Windjammer Marketplace.

Find affordable cruise and hotel deals for your Bahamas adventure on [Expedia](expedia.com/affiliates/expedia-home.XNOE0fI).

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3. Norwegian Getaway – Western Caribbean

For a longer journey through the stunning Western Caribbean, the Norwegian Getaway offers a 7-day itinerary that departs from New Orleans or Miami, stopping at exciting ports such as Cozumel, Costa Maya, and Roatán. Fall is a quieter season in these destinations, giving you a chance to enjoy the beauty of the Caribbean without the crowds, all at a lower price point.

Attractions: Norwegian Getaway has plenty to offer, including a thrilling Aqua Park, a sports complex with a ropes course, mini-golf, and basketball, as well as Broadway-caliber entertainment. There’s also the Mandara Spa for those looking for relaxation and pampering.

Gourmet Dining: Norwegian Cruise Line is known for its “Freestyle Dining,” which allows guests to dine when and where they choose. Try gourmet French cuisine at Le Bistro, indulge in Brazilian-style barbecue at Moderno Churrascaria, or opt for classic American dishes at Cagney’s Steakhouse.

Book your cruise and pre-departure hotel stay through [Expedia](expedia.com/affiliates/expedia-home.XNOE0fI) to get the best deals.

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4. Disney Dream – Bahamas

If you’re seeking a cruise that combines affordability with family-friendly fun, look no further than the Disney Dream. This 3- to 4-day cruise from Port Canaveral to the Bahamas offers a magical experience for families without breaking the bank. Fall is a fantastic time to cruise with Disney, as they offer Halloween-themed voyages that include special onboard events.

Attractions: The Disney Dream is packed with entertainment for all ages, from character meet-and-greets to Broadway-style shows. The ship’s AquaDuck water coaster is a must-try, while kids will love the Oceaneer Club, a children’s area designed to bring Disney characters and stories to life. Adults can relax in their own quiet areas, including an adults-only pool and spa.

Gourmet Dining: Disney Dream features rotational dining, allowing guests to experience different themed restaurants each night, such as Animator’s Palate and Royal Palace. Palo, the ship’s fine dining Italian restaurant, is an upscale option for couples or adults seeking a special dining experience.

Before setting sail, check out [Expedia](expedia.com/affiliates/expedia-home.XNOE0fI) to book affordable accommodations near Port Canaveral.

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5. MSC Seaside – Eastern Caribbean

MSC Cruises is known for offering luxury at an affordable price, and the MSC Seaside is no exception. This 7-day Eastern Caribbean cruise departs from Miami and includes stops in the Bahamas, Puerto Rico, and St. Maarten. MSC offers a more European-style cruising experience, and the Seaside is one of the most budget-friendly ways to explore the Caribbean.

Attractions: Onboard, guests can enjoy a massive waterfront boardwalk, water slides, and nightly entertainment, including Cirque du Soleil-style performances. The MSC Seaside also has a state-of-the-art spa and fitness center, and families will appreciate the dedicated kids' and teens' clubs.

Gourmet Dining: MSC Seaside offers an impressive array of international dining options. Sample Mediterranean flavors at Ocean Cay, enjoy Asian-inspired dishes at Teppanyaki, or go for a classic American steak at Butcher’s Cut. The onboard buffet provides a wide variety of cuisines for those looking for casual dining.

Plan your affordable cruise on MSC Seaside and book Miami accommodations through [Expedia](expedia.com/affiliates/expedia-home.XNOE0fI).

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6. Carnival Breeze – Western Caribbean

For a fun and budget-friendly Western Caribbean cruise, Carnival Breeze offers a 6- to 8-day itinerary departing from Galveston, Texas. This cruise visits popular destinations such as Cozumel, Belize, and Mahogany Bay in Honduras, making it perfect for travelers looking to explore multiple tropical locations on a budget.

Attractions: Carnival Breeze features family-friendly entertainment like the Punchliner Comedy Club, live music, and the Thrill Theater. The onboard WaterWorks park is a hit with kids, while adults can enjoy the Serenity adults-only retreat. There's also a fun onboard casino for those feeling lucky.

Gourmet Dining: Carnival Breeze offers a variety of casual and fine dining experiences, from the New York-style deli sandwiches at The Carnival Deli to seafood at the casual Seafood Shack. The Chef’s Table is perfect for those looking for a gourmet experience, offering a multi-course meal with the ship’s head chef.

To book your affordable cruise and find Galveston hotel deals, visit [Expedia](expedia.com/affiliates/expedia-home.XNOE0fI).

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7. Princess Cruises – Pacific Coastal

For a more laid-back fall cruise, Princess Cruises’ Pacific Coastal itinerary is an excellent option. This 5- to 7-day cruise departs from Los Angeles or San Francisco and sails along the Pacific Coast, with stops in Santa Barbara, San Diego, and Ensenada, Mexico. This cruise offers stunning ocean views and charming coastal towns, all at an affordable price.

Attractions: Princess Cruises is known for its serene and refined atmosphere, making it a great choice for couples or older travelers looking for relaxation. Onboard, guests can enjoy the adults-only Sanctuary, Movies Under the Stars, and the Lotus Spa. The Discovery at SEA program offers enrichment activities and shore excursions inspired by nature and science.

Gourmet Dining: Princess Cruises provides a fantastic culinary experience with its “Dine My Way” program, allowing guests to tailor their dining times and options. The ship’s specialty restaurants, such as Sabatini’s Italian Trattoria and Crown Grill, offer fine dining experiences, while casual options are available at the Horizon Court buffet.

Find your perfect Pacific Coastal cruise and book accommodations through [Expedia](expedia.com/affiliates/expedia-home.XNOE0fI).

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8. Celebrity Solstice – Alaska

Fall is the tail end of Alaska’s cruising season, and the Celebrity Solstice offers a fantastic opportunity to experience the state’s stunning natural beauty without the summer