Cruises

Predictions for cruise prices are currently difficult to make, says Paul Motter, editor of CruiseMates, a cruise news and information website. Gamblers can wait and see whether bargains materialize for summer cruises in Europe and Alaska but right now prices remain firm as lines wait to see what happens with January sales and the economy. “If I had to predict I would say that there will be European discounts appearing in April and May, but they will be for less desirable cabins and airfare will be more expensive than currently.’’ Motter said. To date, these are the only deals announced; Holland America is offering “Vacation Stimulus’’ discounts and 25 percent savings on cancellation insurance. NCL has lower deposits and $35-$500 onboard credits, depending on cabin type and length of cruise. The best deals will likely be for the Caribbean because it is relatively close.