I keep hearing about web sites that have great last minute cruise deals. What are they? I'm interested in just about any up scale cruise that goes almost anywhere. Also, is there anyway to avoid being penalized for being a single? Feel free to e-mail me directly.

Many thanks.

"Travelzoo" & "Vacations to go" are 2 sites I watch for great travel deals, including cruises. I have never booked with VTG, but have booked on Travelzoo's reccomendations a few times with great results.
Sorry, don't have either web address handy this morning, but a Google search should direct you to their sites.

You might also want to try www.cruisemates.com
bargain finder board.

I used Cruise Value Center and got a great price on a Norwegian Sun cruise to Western Caribbean in November. You can put in 1 person to find the price. The only line that gives you a break on single is Carvinal. They have a catergory 1a room which is an inside. They charge is 1.5 times for single to use the room, not full 2 persons price. I think there is a cruise line does single matching, but can't remember which one. It was not Carvinal. You can call all cruise lines to find out their single traveler policy. Sometimes you even get better deal by calling the cruise line directly. Good luck.

I talked to one lady who cruises single and she told me that some of teh cruise lines have a service that is kind of a roommate finder thing where you put your name on a list and the match you up with someone else who is traveling alone. There are drawbacks - mainly being that you will have to share the shower. this might get difficult if you both have dinner at the same time and you have to plan on who takes a shower and when.

Also, if one person wants to sleep in, it might be awkward if the other person flips on the light at 6 am and/or opens the blinds etc.

Also try cruises.com. I found some great last minute deals by doing a web search. Also, check with a local agent who can tell you. Most cruise lines have their own websites and numbers to call if you need help.

You might also consider packing yourself in a large trunk, and seeing if they'll carry you on board...

another place to look for great deals: www.crucon.com

Once you find a deal, you should also try http://www.cruisecompete.com.

This site allows you to select a sailing and get multiple responses from competing agencies. Post the price you got, and see if anyone is willing/able to beat it.

Good luck!