MSC Cruises announced that they would be offering an un-paralleled blowout sale on their European voyages planned throughout the end of 2009.  This sale will offer some of the best deal on cruises that we have seen yet in this year marked by promotions and bargain sales.

This Europe-based cruise line says is offering massive markdowns on its sailings in the Mediterranean and Northern Europe that are soon to depart.  Discounts will be more than 50% take prices for a full week European cruise all the way down to $499 per person per week.  Furthermore, per MSC policy, kids ages 17 and younger will join the cruise for freee if they share a cabin with two full-fare-paying adults.

A  few days before this blowout was announced, Princess Cruises announced dramatically slashed rates for seven-night voyages to Mexico and the Caribbean. These price slashes were also very dramatic, going down to as little as $399 per person per week in a “Sun-Drenched Deals” promotion. Princess decided to extend their “Balcony Bonanza” sale through Aug. 31, 2010, offering free upgrades to balcony cabins.

A battle amongst cruise lines for whom can offer the most dramatically reduced prices is making for great opportunities for cruise lovers who may be feeling the pinch of the recession.