Is January really the best time to buy cruise?

You may think of January as the start of 2018, but for the cruise industry, the early months are Wave Season. That’s when most lines, home ports and industry groups pull out their big marketing campaigns, urging travelers to book early for the season ahead. Promotions promise “the best deals of the year.”

But is that really true? The answer is “maybe.”

If you view a “deal” as the lowest price to get on board any major ship, then Wave Season probably won’t deliver. Last-minute fares do still exist — if you define “last minute” as within a month of sailing. (Because of security regulations, week-of-sailing bookings are no longer allowed.) If you are not particularly picky, you can find fares for $70 per person per night.

But if you view a “deal” as getting the best value for your dollar on a ship and itinerary that’s on your favorites list, you should check out January offerings, says Cruise Critic’s Carolyn Spencer Brown. (Tip: Sign up online for news from your preferred cruise lines. They will alert you to flash deals.)

For sailings in late spring, summer or fall, “Wave Season is definitely a smart time to buy a cruise,” says Brown. That’s because on most ships, the cruise fare is only one factor in your tab. “You’ll want to buy a beverage package. You know you’ll want to buy shore excursions.” Those and other “valueadded” extras — such as airfare, Wi-Fi, specialtyrestaurant dining and tips — are often available with the base price as part of Wave Season deals.

When it comes to superhot destinations, says expert Stewart Chiron, Wave Season may be too late. “If people wait until JanuaryMarch to book Europe or Alaska, prices typically would be 20-40 percent higher,” he writes via email.

Once you find a price you like, don’t tarry.

LORI RACKL/CHICAGO TRIBUNE Royal Caribbean’s Oasis of the Seas passengers visit the cruise line’s private beach resort in Labadee, Haiti.