You’ve given a lot in service to your country. Now it’s time for the cruise lines to give a little back. Military cruise discounts make it easier for active duty service members, veterans, retirees, and their families to trade daily routines for turquoise water, sunset sail-aways, and well-earned downtime at sea.

At Cruises.com, we bring military offers from top cruise lines together in one place. You can find reduced fares from Carnival, Royal Caribbean, and Disney, 20% savings from Norwegian, and onboard spending money from Princess, Cunard, and Holland America. River cruisers can save with AmaWaterways too. Our cruise experts help you compare these cruise deals for veterans and military families, confirm eligibility, and apply every discount you qualify for.

Below, you’ll learn who qualifies, what each cruise line offers, how to redeem your military rate, and how to stack it with Cruises.com Rewards for even more value.

What are military cruise discounts?

Military cruise discounts are special rates and perks that cruise lines offer to people who serve or have served in the U.S. armed forces. Depending on the cruise line, these offers might include:

• Reduced cruise fares on select sailings
• Percentage savings off your booking
• Onboard credit to spend on spa treatments, specialty dining, drinks, and more
• Per-person discounts on river cruises
• Bonus deals paired with special rates

Each cruise line sets its own rules, so offers vary in value, eligible sailings, and qualifying guests. That’s where we come in. Instead of researching one cruise line at a time, you can compare military rates side by side and choose the deal that fits your trip.

Who qualifies for military cruise discounts?

Most military rates cover a broad group of people who have served, along with their families. Exact rules differ by cruise line, but these groups commonly qualify.

Can active duty service members get military cruise rates?

Yes. Active duty members of the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, Coast Guard, and Space Force are generally eligible. Many cruise lines also extend offers to members of the National Guard and Reserves.

Do veterans qualify for cruise deals?

Many cruise lines offer cruise deals for veterans who have honorably served. Requirements vary, so our cruise experts can help you confirm which lines accept veteran status and what proof you’ll need.

Are retired military members eligible?

Retired military members typically qualify for military cruise rates. Retirement often opens up more time for longer voyages, from weeklong Caribbean getaways to European river cruises.

Can military spouses and dependents use the discount?

Often, yes. Many cruise lines extend military rates to spouses, and some include dependents or other guests sharing the qualifying member’s stateroom. Some offers require the service member to sail, while others are more flexible. Ask a cruise expert for the details on the line you’re considering.

Group	Typically Eligible?	Good to Know
Active duty	Yes	Includes all branches on most lines
National Guard and Reserves	Often	Rules vary by cruise line
Veterans	Often	Proof of service is usually required
Retired military	Yes	Retiree ID is commonly accepted
Spouses	Often	Some lines require the service member to sail
Dependents	Sometimes	Usually must share the qualifying stateroom

Good to know: Eligibility rules can change. Always confirm the latest requirements with a Cruises.com agent before you book.

What military cruise deals does Cruises.com offer?

Here’s a look at the military offers available by cruise line. Each brings its own style of adventure, from lively Caribbean fun ships to elegant ocean liners and scenic river journeys.

Cruise Line	Military Offer
Carnival Cruise Line	Limited-time reduced rates (call now)
Celebrity Cruises	Up to $200 in savings
Cunard	Up to $250 to spend on board
Disney Cruise Line	Limited-time reduced rates (call now)
Holland America Line	$100 to spend on board
MSC Cruises	Special rates and bonus deals
Norwegian Cruise Line	20% savings
Princess Cruises	Up to $250 to spend on board
Royal Caribbean	Limited-time reduced rates
AmaWaterways	$100 off per person

What military discount does Carnival offer?

Carnival Cruise Line offers limited-time reduced rates for military guests. Carnival’s Fun Ships are perfect for families and first-timers, with waterslides, comedy clubs, free favorites like Guy’s Burger Joint, and short getaways to Mexico and the Bahamas. Because these rates are time-sensitive, call 1-800-288-6006 to lock in current pricing.

What military discount does Celebrity Cruises offer?

Celebrity Cruises offers up to $200 in savings for military guests. Celebrity blends modern design with upscale dining and relaxing spaces, so it’s a great pick for couples and anyone craving a refined escape. Imagine sipping a glass of wine on the Rooftop Garden as your ship glides toward a Caribbean island or a Greek harbor.

What military discount does Cunard offer?

Cunard offers up to $250 to spend on board. Known for classic ocean liner elegance, Cunard is famous for afternoon tea, ballroom dancing, and transatlantic crossings. Use your onboard credit for a spa treatment, a special dinner, or a toast at sea.

What military discount does Disney Cruise Line offer?

Disney Cruise Line offers limited-time reduced rates for military guests. Disney sailings bring character meet-and-greets, Broadway-style shows, and kids’ clubs that feel like pure magic. Families can also spend a sunny day at Disney’s private island destinations in the Bahamas. These rates move quickly, so call 1-800-288-6006 to check availability.

What military discount does Holland America Line offer?

Holland America Line offers $100 to spend on board. This line is known for its port-focused itineraries, live music venues, and relaxed, refined atmosphere. Picture cruising past Alaska’s glaciers, then treating yourself to a specialty dinner with your onboard credit.

What military discount does MSC Cruises offer?

MSC Cruises offers special rates and bonus deals for military guests. MSC pairs European style with a value-focused approach. You’ll find modern ships, international dining, and visits to Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve, the line’s private island in the Bahamas. Ask an agent about current bonus offers for your sailing.

What military discount does Norwegian Cruise Line offer?

Norwegian Cruise Line offers 20% savings for military guests. NCL is all about Freestyle Cruising, so you can dine when you want and do what you love on your own schedule. Its newest ships feature go-kart tracks, thrilling slides, and breezy outdoor spaces. That 20% can add up fast on a weeklong vacation.

What military discount does Princess Cruises offer?

Princess Cruises offers up to $250 to spend on board. Princess is a favorite for Alaska, the Caribbean, and Europe, with relaxed vibes, Movies Under the Stars, and the convenient MedallionClass experience. Your onboard credit can cover drinks, dining, or shore-day treats.

What military discount does Royal Caribbean offer?

Royal Caribbean offers limited-time reduced rates for military guests. These ships are packed with adventure, from surf simulators and rock-climbing walls to waterslides and Broadway hits. Many sailings also visit Perfect Day at CocoCay, Royal Caribbean’s private island in the Bahamas.

What military discount does AmaWaterways offer?

AmaWaterways offers $100 off per person for military guests. River cruising is a wonderful way to explore Europe’s castles, vineyards, and charming villages at a gentle pace. Imagine gliding down the Danube or the Rhine, then stepping off the ship and into the heart of a historic town.

Pro tip: Offers can change at any time, and some apply only to select sailings. Call our agents to confirm the current deal before you book.

Why book military cruise rates through Cruises.com?

Booking with Cruises.com gives you the same ships, staterooms, and itineraries you’d find going direct, plus extra value and support.

Can you compare military discounts across cruise lines?

Yes. Instead of calling ten different cruise lines, you can compare military offers from ocean and river cruise lines in one place. That makes it easy to weigh 20% savings against $250 in onboard credit and decide which deal gives you the most value.

Will a cruise expert help you find every discount?

Absolutely. Our cruise experts know the fine print and can check whether you qualify for other savings too, including:

• Resident discounts based on your state
• Senior discounts for travelers 55 and older on most cruise lines
• Past guest offers from cruise lines you’ve sailed before

Not every discount can be combined with a military rate, but our agents will help you find the best overall deal.

Do you still earn cruise line loyalty points?

Yes. When you book with Cruises.com, you still earn toward your cruise line loyalty status and past guest perks, just like you would if you booked direct.

How do you stack military discounts with Cruises.com Rewards?

Here’s where your savings can really grow. Cruises.com Rewards is a free program that lets you earn points on every booking. You can then redeem those points for onboard spending, cash back before you cruise, free Uber rides, merchandise, and more.

What do Cruises.com Rewards members get?

• 5,000 bonus points when you complete your profile
• Points on every booking you make
• 1,500 birthday points every year
• Exclusive member offers, including special pricing and limited-time savings
• The ability to combine points from multiple cruises for bigger perks

How does stacking work?

On a single booking, you can enjoy value from several sources at once:

1. Your military rate, such as reduced fares, percentage savings, or onboard credit
2. Your cruise line loyalty points and past guest perks
3. Your credit card rewards, based on how you pay
4. Your Cruises.com Rewards points, earned on top of it all

Picture this. You book a Princess Alaska cruise with up to $250 to spend on board. Then you redeem Cruises.com Rewards points for even more onboard spending or cash back. Suddenly, that glacier-view dinner and whale-watching tour feel a lot more affordable.

Good to know: Points from a booking become active two months before departure, so you can use them on the very cruise you just booked. If you sail within two months, your points are active right away.

Related: Cruises.com Rewards: 10 things you get when you sign up

How do you redeem a military cruise discount?

A little prep makes it easy to claim your military rate and sail without surprises.

What proof of service do you need?

Cruise lines usually ask for documentation that confirms eligibility. Common examples include a military ID, a retiree ID, a veteran ID card, or discharge paperwork such as a DD-214. Requirements vary by cruise line, so confirm the accepted documents with your agent.

When do you verify eligibility?

Some cruise lines verify eligibility at booking. Others check documents at pier check-in. Either way, bring your proof of service with you on embarkation day, along with your travel documents.

Tips for getting the most from your military rate

• Call early for time-sensitive offers. Reduced rates from Carnival, Disney, and Royal Caribbean are limited-time deals.
• Compare the total value. A percentage discount might save more on a long cruise, while onboard credit can be a better fit for shorter trips.
• Check who’s covered. Confirm whether the offer applies to your spouse, kids, or other guests in your stateroom.
• Book popular dates early. Holiday sailings and summer family trips fill quickly.
• Ask about other discounts. Resident, senior, and past guest offers may add value.
• Join Cruises.com Rewards before you book. You’ll start earning points right away.
• Keep copies of your documents. Pack your proof of service in your carry-on.

Which cruise is right for military families?

Every family has its own idea of the perfect getaway. Here’s a quick guide to match your crew with a cruise line.

Traveler Type	Great Fit	Why
Families with young kids	Disney, Carnival, Royal Caribbean	Kids’ clubs, waterslides, and family fun
Couples	Celebrity, Princess	Relaxed vibe, great dining, and scenic routes
Flexible travelers	Norwegian	Freestyle Cruising and 20% savings
Value seekers	Carnival, MSC	Budget-friendly fares and bonus deals
Retirees with more time	Holland America, Cunard	Longer itineraries and refined experiences
Europe explorers	AmaWaterways	River cruises through historic towns

---

Frequently asked questions

What are military cruise discounts?

Military cruise discounts are special rates and perks for active duty service members, veterans, retirees, and often their families. They can include reduced fares, percentage savings, onboard credit, or per-person discounts.

Which cruise lines offer military discounts through Cruises.com?

Carnival, Celebrity, Cunard, Disney, Holland America, MSC, Norwegian, Princess, Royal Caribbean, and AmaWaterways all offer military deals through Cruises.com.

Which cruise line has the best military discount?

It depends on your trip. Norwegian offers 20% savings, which can add up on longer sailings. Princess and Cunard offer up to $250 to spend on board. Carnival, Disney, and Royal Caribbean offer limited-time reduced rates. Our trsvel experts can help you compare.

Are there cruise deals for veterans?

Yes. Many cruise lines offer cruise deals for veterans, though eligibility and required documents vary. Call 1-800-288-6006 to find out which offers you qualify for.

Can military spouses book the discount?

Often, yes. Many cruise lines extend military rates to spouses, and some cover other guests in the same stateroom. Some lines require the service member to sail, so confirm the rules before booking.

What documents do I need to get a military cruise rate?

You’ll usually need proof of service, such as a military ID, retiree ID, veteran ID card, or DD-214. Bring your documents to the pier, since some cruise lines verify eligibility at check-in.

Can I combine military discounts with other offers?

Sometimes. Some military rates can be combined with other promotions, while others can’t. You can still earn Cruises.com Rewards points and cruise line loyalty points on your booking.

Do I earn Cruises.com Rewards points on military bookings?

Yes. You earn points on your bookings, plus 5,000 bonus points for completing your profile and 1,500 points every birthday. Redeem them for onboard spending, cash back, Uber rides, and more.

Do military discounts apply to river cruises?

Yes. AmaWaterways offers $100 off per person for military guests on its river cruises.

How do I book a military cruise rate with Cruises.com?

Call 1-800-288-6006 to speak with a cruise expert, or browse sailings on Cruises.com. Our agents will confirm your eligibility and apply your military discount.

---

Thank you for your service. Whether you’re dreaming of a Disney family adventure, a Princess voyage past Alaska’s glaciers, or a romantic river cruise through Europe, military cruise discounts help you get there for less. Pair your rate with Cruises.com Rewards, and your well-earned vacation delivers even more value.

Call 1-800-288-6006 to talk with a cruise expert about current military offers, or explore sailings and unlock exclusive rates on Cruises.com today. Compare cruise lines, choose your stateroom, and book the getaway you deserve.