When to Book an Alaskan Cruise

My husband and I want to take an Alaskan cruise some time in the next year or so. We like to plan things out in advance but want to save as much money as possible. Do you have any advice regarding the best time to book a cruise?

-Cecelia, San Luis Obispo, Calif.

Since you like to plan things ahead, you are in luck. You should book your cruise as far ahead as possible. Alaskan cruises sell the fastest of nearly all cruise regions, about nine months in advance, especially for July and August. Off-peak sailings in May and September are my favorites; they're not as crowded.