If you've never tried cruising before, now might be the time to give it a go.

Cruise lines have slashed prices for the next few months after last month's terrorist attacks hit US bookings. Companies that rely heavily on American business such as Carnival, Royal Caribbean International and Princess have been hit the worst by the cancellations from US holidaymakers worried about security on cruise ships.

Bill Gibbins, director of the Passenger Shipping Association, which represents UK-based cruise lines, said the US terrorist attacks had contributed to a downturn in business during a traditionally low season for cruise lines. 'There are some great bargains to be had,' he said.

Celebrity Cruises, part of Royal Caribbean, has reduced the price of its nine-night Deep Western Caribbean fly-cruise on board Horizon from £1,500 to £798 per person for departures on 6 or 13 December. The ex-Miami cruise includes stops in Key West, Grand Cayman and Cozumel.

A spokeswoman said discounting by the airlines had helped to bring the prices down. Holidaymakers can save up to 46 per cent on the brochure price for a Mexican Magic cruise from Costa Cruises. The nine-night holiday on board Costa Victoria now leads in at £749 for departures on 1 or 15 December. Meanwhile, Orient Lines has reduced the price of its five-night Greek island-hopping cruise from £995 to £499 for an inside cabin on Crown Odyssey. The cruise begins in Piraeus, Athens and includes visits to Mykonos, Santorini and Rhodes. The offer includes flights from the UK, meals, entertainment, and transfers.