Costco Travel Cruises: How They Work, What’s Included & How to Book

A cruise can be one of the easiest ways to explore multiple destinations during a single vacation. Instead of changing hotels every few days, travelers can stay aboard one ship while visiting different cities, islands, or coastal destinations.

For Costco members, Costco Travel cruises are another option worth comparing when planning a cruise vacation. Costco Travel offers cruises across destinations including Alaska, the Caribbean, Mexico, Europe and the Mediterranean, Hawaii and the South Pacific, Asia, Australia and New Zealand, the Bahamas, Bermuda, the Panama Canal, South America, and other regions.

Costco Travel also works with a wide range of cruise lines, including Carnival Cruise Line, Celebrity Cruises, Disney Cruise Line, Holland America Line, Norwegian Cruise Line, Princess Cruises, Royal Caribbean, Cunard, Seabourn, Azamara, and others.

But how does booking a cruise through Costco Travel actually work? What do you get, and is it worth booking through Costco instead of directly with the cruise line?

This guide explains everything you should know before booking a Costco cruise.

What Is Costco Travel Cruises?

Costco Travel Cruises is the cruise-booking section of Costco Travel.

It allows Costco members to search and book cruise vacations based on destination, cruise line, sailing date, departure port, and other preferences.

Instead of visiting every cruise line separately, travelers can compare available sailings through Costco Travel.

Current cruise categories include destinations such as:

• Alaska
• Caribbean
• Bahamas
• Mexico
• Bermuda
• Europe
• Mediterranean
• Hawaii
• South Pacific
• Asia
• Australia and New Zealand
• Panama Canal
• South America
• Transatlantic
• Africa

Costco Travel also organizes cruises by departure ports such as Miami, Fort Lauderdale, Seattle, Los Angeles, New York, Galveston, Vancouver, San Diego, San Francisco, and Port Canaveral.

This makes it easier to search for a cruise based on where you want to travel and where you want to begin your trip.

How Does Costco Travel Cruise Booking Work?

The booking process is similar to booking a cruise through another travel provider, but Costco Travel adds its own member-oriented offers and benefits.

The basic process looks like this:

Step 1: Choose a Cruise Destination

Start by deciding where you want to cruise.

For example, you could choose:

• Alaska
• Caribbean
• Mexico
• Mediterranean
• Bahamas
• Hawaii

Your destination will determine the available cruise lines, ships, ports, and sailing dates.

Step 2: Choose Your Departure Port

The departure port is another important factor.

For example, Caribbean cruises can depart from several major ports, while Alaska cruises commonly use ports such as Seattle or Vancouver.

Choosing a port closer to your home can reduce your pre-cruise transportation and hotel costs.

Step 3: Select Your Travel Dates

Cruise pricing can vary significantly depending on the season.

Compare several dates if your schedule is flexible.

Traveling during shoulder seasons can sometimes provide a different price and availability compared with peak vacation periods.

Step 4: Compare Cruise Lines

Costco Travel provides access to numerous cruise lines.

The right cruise line depends on what type of experience you want.

Families may prioritize entertainment and activities, couples may prefer a more relaxed atmosphere, and luxury travelers may focus on premium accommodations and service.

Step 5: Choose Your Ship and Sailing

Once you find a cruise line you like, compare the available ships and itineraries.

Look at:

• Number of nights
• Ports of call
• Departure and arrival ports
• Ship
• Cabin category
• Dining options
• Entertainment
• Included benefits
• Promotional offers

Step 6: Select Your Cabin

Cruise cabins can vary considerably.

Common categories include:

• Interior
• Ocean view
• Balcony
• Suite

The best choice depends on your budget and how much time you expect to spend in the cabin.

Step 7: Review the Complete Offer

Before booking, carefully review everything included in the offer.

Check the cruise fare, taxes, fees, cabin category, promotional benefits, cancellation conditions, and any additional costs.

Step 8: Complete Your Booking

After reviewing the terms and selecting your sailing, complete the reservation through Costco Travel.

Keep your confirmation information available for future cruise planning and check-in.

What Is Included With Costco Travel Cruises?

Cruise inclusions vary by cruise line, ship, sailing, cabin category, and promotional offer.

The base cruise fare may include several standard cruise services, but travelers should not assume that every onboard expense is included.

Depending on the cruise, you may receive access to:

• Your selected cabin
• Main dining
• Selected onboard entertainment
• Pools and common facilities
• Certain activities
• Port visits included in the itinerary

Additional services may cost extra.

These can include:

• Specialty restaurants
• Alcoholic beverages
• Internet packages
• Spa services
• Shore excursions
• Premium activities
• Certain onboard purchases
• Some transportation arrangements

Always check the specific cruise details before booking.

What Is the Costco Shop Card Cruise Benefit?

One of the most notable features of Costco Travel cruises is the Digital Costco Shop Card.

Costco Travel currently promotes a Digital Costco Shop Card with every sailing on its cruise platform.

The value of the Shop Card can vary by sailing and offer.

This can make Costco Travel particularly interesting for Costco members who already shop regularly at Costco.

However, the Shop Card should be considered alongside the total cruise price and other benefits.

A larger Shop Card does not automatically mean that the overall cruise is cheaper.

What Are Kirkland Signature Cruises?

Costco Travel also promotes Kirkland Signature Vacations among its cruise categories.

These offers are positioned around exclusive savings and included extras.

If you see a Kirkland Signature cruise offer, compare its specific inclusions with comparable sailings.

The additional benefits may be particularly valuable if they match the type of experience you want from your cruise.

What Are Buyer’s Choice Cruises?

Another Costco Travel category is Buyer’s Choice.

These cruises can feature selected offers with additional value or amenities.

Costco Travel highlights Buyer’s Choice sailings as part of its cruise offerings.

As with any cruise promotion, read the individual offer details because benefits can vary.

Popular Costco Travel Cruise Destinations

Costco Travel offers cruises across a wide range of destinations.

Alaska Cruises

Alaska is one of the most popular cruise destinations for travelers who want dramatic scenery and wildlife experiences.

Alaska itineraries can feature:

• Glacier viewing
• Mountain landscapes
• Coastal towns
• Wildlife
• Scenic waterways
• Alaska ports

Costco Travel currently features Alaska cruises from cruise lines including Carnival, Norwegian, Princess, Holland America, Cunard, and others.

Caribbean Cruises

Caribbean cruises are ideal for travelers looking for beaches, warm weather, and multiple island destinations.

Popular itineraries can include:

• Eastern Caribbean
• Western Caribbean
• Southern Caribbean
• Bahamas
• Mexico

Costco Travel currently lists cruise options from several major cruise lines for the Caribbean region.

Mexico Cruises

Mexico cruises can provide a shorter international getaway for travelers departing from ports such as Los Angeles or other U.S. locations.

Popular destinations can include areas around:

• Cozumel
• Cabo San Lucas
• Puerto Vallarta
• Mazatlán
• Mexican Riviera

The exact itinerary depends on the sailing.

Mediterranean Cruises

Mediterranean cruises can be appealing for travelers who want to combine multiple European destinations into one vacation.

Depending on the itinerary, you may visit destinations across countries such as:

• Spain
• Italy
• Greece
• France
• Croatia
• Turkey

Costco Travel lists Europe and Mediterranean cruises among its cruise destinations.

Bahamas Cruises

Bahamas cruises are often available as shorter getaways.

These can be useful for travelers who don’t want to spend a full week at sea.

Costco Travel currently lists Bahamas cruises from several cruise lines and departure ports.

Which Cruise Lines Are Available Through Costco Travel?

The selection can change, but Costco Travel currently lists numerous cruise brands.

Examples include:

• Azamara Cruises
• Carnival Cruise Line
• Celebrity Cruises
• Cunard
• Disney Cruise Line
• Holland America Line
• Norwegian Cruise Line
• Princess Cruises
• Regent Seven Seas Cruises
• Royal Caribbean
• Seabourn
• Trafalgar River Cruises
• Uniworld Boutique River Cruises
• Virgin Voyages

The availability of a particular ship or sailing depends on the destination and travel dates.

Is Costco Travel Good for Family Cruises?

Costco Travel can be useful for families because the platform provides access to cruise lines with different styles of family entertainment and accommodation.

For example, Disney Cruise Line is among the cruise brands listed by Costco Travel, along with Carnival, Royal Caribbean, Norwegian, and others.

Families should compare:

• Cabin size
• Occupancy
• Kids’ activities
• Dining
• Entertainment
• Port schedule
• Child-related fees
• Excursion options

The cheapest cabin isn’t necessarily the best choice for a family.

Are Costco Cruises Cheaper?

This is one of the most common questions.

The answer is: not necessarily.

Costco Travel may offer competitive cruise pricing and additional benefits, but the base cruise fare can vary depending on the sailing.

To determine whether a Costco cruise is a good deal, compare the exact same:

• Cruise line
• Ship
• Sailing date
• Cabin category
• Number of travelers
• Taxes
• Fees
• Promotional benefits

Then compare the total value.

For example, Costco Travel may offer a Digital Costco Shop Card or another benefit that isn’t reflected in the basic cruise fare.

That additional value should be included when making your comparison.

Costco Travel Cruise vs Booking Direct

Booking through Costco Travel and booking directly with a cruise line can both have advantages.

Booking Through Costco Travel

Potential advantages include:

• Digital Costco Shop Card offers
• Access to multiple cruise lines
• Costco member-focused promotions
• Selected exclusive amenities
• Centralized cruise shopping
• Executive Member benefits on qualifying purchases

Booking Directly With the Cruise Line

Potential advantages may include:

• Direct loyalty-program management
• Cruise-line-specific promotions
• Direct communication with the cruise line
• Certain loyalty benefits

The best option depends on your individual situation.

If the Costco offer includes valuable extras, it can be worth considering even when the advertised cruise fare is similar.

Do Costco Executive Members Get Extra Cruise Benefits?

Costco Executive Members may receive additional rewards on qualifying Costco Travel purchases.

Costco Travel states that Executive Members receive an annual 2% Reward on qualified Costco Travel purchases, subject to applicable conditions and limits.

If you regularly book cruises or other qualifying travel, this benefit can add to the overall value.

However, check the current Costco terms before calculating the exact reward you expect from a booking.

What Should You Check Before Booking a Costco Cruise?

Before confirming your reservation, review the following.

Cruise Fare

Check whether the displayed price is per person or for the entire cabin.

Many cruise prices are advertised per person based on double occupancy.

Taxes and Fees

Check whether taxes, port fees, and other charges are included in the displayed price.

Cabin Category

Make sure you know exactly what type of cabin you are purchasing.

Dining

Check which dining options are included and which restaurants require additional charges.

Internet

Wi-Fi may be included in certain cruise packages or promotions but not necessarily every booking.

Beverage Packages

Check whether drinks are included or whether you need to purchase a beverage package.

Shore Excursions

Shore excursions are often separate purchases.

Cancellation Policy

Read the cancellation and modification rules before paying.

Shop Card

Check the value and conditions of any Digital Costco Shop Card promotion.

How to Find Costco Cruise Deals

Costco Travel regularly features cruise deals and promotional offers.

Its cruise section includes categories such as cruise deals, exotic voyages, Grand and World Cruises, Kirkland Signature Vacations, Alaska cruises, and last-minute cruises.

Look at Current Cruise Deals

Start with Costco Travel’s current cruise offers rather than relying on old articles or screenshots.

Cruise prices and promotions can change.

Compare Multiple Sailing Dates

If you have flexible dates, search more than one sailing.

A difference of several days can sometimes change the price substantially.

Compare Cabin Categories

Don’t compare an interior cabin with a balcony cabin and assume one is more expensive without considering the difference in experience.

Look at the Shop Card

If two identical sailings have similar prices, the one with a stronger Costco Shop Card offer may provide additional value.

Check Last-Minute Cruises

If your schedule is flexible, last-minute cruise offers may also be worth checking.

Costco Travel maintains a specific last-minute cruise category.

How to Save Money on a Costco Cruise

Book the Right Cabin

If you don’t spend much time in your room, an interior cabin may be enough.

If you value private outdoor space and views, a balcony may justify the additional cost.

Compare Departure Ports

Consider the complete travel cost.

A cheaper cruise from a distant port may become more expensive after flights, hotels, and transportation.

Check Shorter Cruises

Three- to five-night cruises can provide a shorter getaway and may require a smaller vacation budget.

Costco Travel currently features short getaway cruises among its offers.

Consider Shoulder-Season Travel

Peak travel periods can be more expensive.

If your schedule allows flexibility, compare different months.

Compare the Full Package

Don’t focus only on the cruise fare.

Consider:

Cruise fare + taxes + transportation + hotel + excursions + onboard expenses

This gives you a better idea of the true vacation cost.

Are Costco Travel Cruises Worth It?

For Costco members, they can be worth comparing.

The main attraction isn’t necessarily that every cruise is the cheapest.

Instead, Costco Travel can provide a combination of:

• Cruise selection
• Member-oriented offers
• Digital Costco Shop Card benefits
• Selected exclusive amenities
• Potential Executive Member rewards
• Multiple cruise destinations
• Access to numerous cruise lines

If you find a cruise that matches your preferred ship, itinerary, cabin, and dates, the additional Costco benefits can improve the overall value.

However, always compare the exact sailing with the cruise line’s direct offer.

Pros and Cons of Costco Travel Cruises

Pros

• Large selection of cruise destinations
• Multiple major cruise lines
• Digital Costco Shop Card with eligible sailings
• Selected exclusive offers
• Kirkland Signature and Buyer’s Choice options
• Alaska, Caribbean, Europe, Mexico, and other destinations
• Last-minute cruise options
• Potential Executive Member benefits

Cons

• Not every sailing will be the cheapest
• Benefits vary by offer
• Shop Card value can vary
• Some onboard services cost extra
• Shore excursions may be additional
• Cruise prices change frequently
• Cabin categories can make comparisons complicated

Final Verdict

Costco Travel cruises are worth comparing if you are already a Costco member and want a combination of cruise selection and additional member value.

The platform currently offers cruises across many destinations and works with numerous cruise lines, while its cruise program highlights Digital Costco Shop Card benefits and selected exclusive offers.

But don’t choose a cruise simply because it is listed as a Costco deal.

Compare the exact ship, sailing date, cabin, taxes, fees, onboard inclusions, and promotional benefits with other booking options.

The best Costco cruise is the one that gives you the right itinerary and experience at a competitive total vacation cost.

For a broader overview of Costco Travel packages, hotels, cruises, rental cars, and deals, read our Costco Travel Guide.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Costco Travel Cruises?

Costco Travel Cruises is the cruise-booking section of Costco Travel, offering members access to cruise itineraries from numerous cruise lines and destinations.

Does Costco Travel offer cruises?

Yes. Costco Travel offers cruises to destinations including Alaska, the Caribbean, Mexico, Europe, the Mediterranean, Hawaii, South America, Asia, and other regions.

Do Costco cruises include a Shop Card?

Costco Travel currently promotes a Digital Costco Shop Card with every sailing, although the value and specific terms can vary by offer.

Is Costco Travel cheaper than booking a cruise directly?

Not always. Compare the exact sailing, cabin, dates, fees, and included benefits before deciding.

What cruise lines does Costco Travel offer?

Costco Travel currently lists cruise lines including Carnival, Celebrity, Disney, Holland America, Norwegian, Princess, Royal Caribbean, Cunard, Seabourn, Azamara, Virgin Voyages, and others.

Does Costco Travel offer Alaska cruises?

Yes. Alaska is one of the destinations available through Costco Travel, with options from multiple cruise lines.

Does Costco Travel offer Caribbean cruises?

Yes. Costco Travel offers Eastern, Western, and Southern Caribbean cruise options as well as Bahamas itineraries.

Can Executive Members earn rewards on Costco cruises?

Qualifying Costco Travel purchases can be eligible for the Costco Executive Member 2% Reward, subject to Costco’s current terms and conditions.

Does Costco Travel offer last-minute cruises?

Yes. Costco Travel has a last-minute cruise category featuring selected sailings departing soon.

What should I compare before booking a Costco cruise?

Compare the cruise fare, cabin category, taxes, fees, itinerary, departure port, Shop Card or other benefits, cancellation policy, and expected onboard expenses.

Disclaimer

Cruise prices, availability, promotions, Shop Card values, itineraries, cruise lines, cabin categories, membership benefits, taxes, fees, and booking terms can change at any time. Always verify the current information and terms on the official Costco Travel website before making a reservation. This article is for informational purposes only and is not affiliated with or endorsed by Costco Travel or Costco Wholesale.