Norwegian Cruise Line has a kids-go-free offer -- but just until Saturday

Norwegian Cruise Line is offering to waive fares for children who sail with their parents on selected fall and winter cruises to Alaska, the Bahamas, New England, the Caribbean, Hawaii and other destinations. And aboard the Jewel and the Epic, you can sail with SpongeBob and Dora the Explorer too. (Well, actually, their characters and themed events.)

The deal: Two children age 17 or under can sail free when they share a cabin with two paying adults. It’s that simple. The offer covers a variety of ships and destinations. Note that although the children’s fares are waived, you still must pay the taxes on them. Also, airfare isn’t included in the price.

When: The offer is good for selected sailings from September to December, but you must book by 11:59 Saturday.

Tested: I checked availability at NCL’s website and selected a seven-night fall tour of New England from Oct. 1 to 8 aboard the Norwegian Jewel, which features “Nickelodeon at Sea” characters and special events. The cruise starts and ends in New York City, with stops in Portland, Maine, and in Canada at Sydney, Halifax and St. John.

The fare is $549 per adult plus tax and fees, based on double occupancy. Under this deal, a stateroom that sleeps four comes to $1,680, including taxes and fees -- a pretty sweet price for a family cruise.

Contact: Norwegian Cruise Line, (866) 234-7350 or contact a travel agent.