Don't Miss the Boat on Cruise Deals

Longing to take a cruise in Polynesia? Bargains abound on the high seas this year, but you have to move fast because they're starting to dry up.

Luxury cruise lines slashed prices to lure cost-conscious travelers who are trying to weather the economic recession. The strategy worked and demand has rebounded, prompting companies to raise prices. So if you want to take a cruise this year, book soon.

The 332-passenger Paul Gauguin tours Polynesia.

Here are five trips to consider:

Atlantic Ocean: A transatlantic trip on the venerable Queen Mary 2 should be at the top of any cruise aficionado's list. Starting in April, the five-year-old ship run by Carnival's(CCL) Cunard Line will make 48 trips across the Atlantic, each taking five to 23 days.

Six-day cruises start at $1,195 for an inside cabin or $2,445 for a suite with a private balcony. While aboard, you can visit the Canyon Ranch SpaClub, study stars in the ship's planetarium, sip bubbly at the Veuve Clicquot Champagne Bar or stroll the decks of a ship that harkens back to the Golden Age of ocean travel.

Nile River: For a more intimate cruise that will introduce you to the wonders of ancient Egypt, book a four- to seven-day cruise on the upper portion of the Nile. There are more than 200 cruise ships sailing the waters between Luxor and Aswan, including Sonesta's(SNSTA) Moon Goddess and Nile Sun Travel's Royal Ruby. Both offer five-star accommodations for $450 to $1,300 a trip, including suites with panoramic windows or private balconies. Passengers can visit sites such as the Temples of Luxor and Karnak.