Finding the World’s Cheapest Lobster Deals

Lobster is one of the most prized and expensive seafood delicacies around. But if you know where to look you can find unbelievable lobster deals in destinations all over the world. Keep reading for the inside scoop on locating the cheapest lobster prices globally.

Why is Lobster Usually So Expensive?

There are a few key reasons lobster commands such steep prices, especially in landlocked areas far from coastlines

• Limited Supply – Lobster fishing is strictly regulated, keeping supply low. Lobster is slow to mature and stocks face environmental pressures.

• High Demand – Lobster is considered a luxury food item and demand continues to grow globally. There is a limited harvest so prices are driven up.

• Shipping Costs – Getting fresh live lobster to inland locations drives up transportation costs, passed onto the consumer.

• Export Fees – Lobster exporting countries like Canada charge fees, increasing costs abroad. For example, China slaps heavy import fees on lobsters.

But when you’re closer to the source, lobster can become far more affordable! Let’s look at some of the cheapest lobster destinations around the world.

Cheap Lobster Destinations in North America

North America is home to iconic lobster fisheries like the Canadian Maritimes and New England. Even here, prices stay lower close to the source.

Newfoundland, Canada

• Rich lobster fishing grounds off Newfoundland’s coast mean abundant supply all season from April to October.
• Simple lobster shacks dot the coastal towns, serving budget-friendly lobster rolls and plates.
• Average price: $10 CAD per pound cooked.

Prince Edward Island, Canada

• As the lobster capital of Canada, PEI has competitive lobster prices to match demand.
• Restaurants boast all-you-can-eat lobster specials in summer for $20-30 CAD.
• Lobster suppers with fixings at local church events offer deals around $15 CAD.

Maine, USA

• Live lobsters can be found for under $5 USD per pound at wharfs during peak season in summer.
• “Lobster palaces” offer budget plates and rolls for $15-20 in coastal towns.
• Time your visit for Maine Lobster Week in late July for special discounted menus.

Where to Find Cheap Lobster in Europe

Europe isn’t famous for budget seafood, but a few surprising spots offer cheap lobster if you know where to look.

Olhão, Portugal

• This small port town in the unspoiled Algarve is Portugal’s bustling seafood capital.
• Fishermen sell freshly caught lobsters directly on the docks for as little as €25 per kilo live weight.
• Local restaurants serve fixed price lobster dinners with wine for under €30 per person.

Cagliari, Sardinia

• Thanks to Sardinia’s thriving fisheries, seafood is cheaper than mainland Italy.
• Street food trucks offer takeaway lobster paninis for €10 or less.
• Even fine dining restaurants have lobster pasta on the menu for €15-20.

Galicia, Spain

• Spain’s lush green northwest corner provides abundant seafood straight from the Bay of Biscay.
• For as low as €30-40, multi-course fixed lobster menus are available, including wine.
• BYOB policies in family-style restaurants let you supply your own cheap wine to accompany budget lobster plates.

Cheap Lobster Havens in Asia

Asia offers some tantalizing lobster deals if you stray from the tourist hotspots.

Pulau Ketam, Malaysia

• This rustic island near Kuala Lumpur is dotted with floating lobster pits and seafood shops.
• Buy fresh lobster direct from fishermen for just MR 45 (about $10 USD) per kilo.
• Local restaurants serve heaping plates of lobster cooked in myriad styles for under MR 100 (around $25 USD).

Sihanoukville, Cambodia

• Thanks to plentiful lobster supply in the Gulf of Thailand, prices stay low in this coastal town.
• Beachfront lobster shacks offer grilled lobster for $5-10 USD.
• At the markets, live lobster can be negotiated at around $20 per kilo.

Goa, India

• Plentiful seafood and beach shack dining make Goa surprisingly budget-friendly for lobster.
• Simple grilled lobster with rice and salad runs just 600-800 INR (under $20 USD).
• Being flexible on lobster sizes opens up cheaper deals on smaller specimens.

Great Lobster Deals in the Southern Hemisphere

Lobster lovers visiting the southern hemisphere are also blessed with amazing value on lobster.

Hout Bay, South Africa

• This lively Cape Town suburb is South Africa’s hub for freshly caught lobster.
• Fishermen at the harbor offer cooked lobster tail at 150 ZAR per kilo (around $10 USD).
• Seaside restaurants serve lobster plates with wine pairings starting around 300 ZAR ($20 USD).

Kaikōura, New Zealand

• The nutrient-rich offshore canyon makes Kaikōura a lobster haven.
• Craypot Cafe serves Kaikōura lobster rolls for just $12 NZD!
• Look for deals like lobster mornay pizza for $18 NZD at cafes.

Lobos, Peru

• This northern surf town receives daily lobster deliveries from local fishermen.
• Beach clubs offer heaping lobster rice plates for around 40 PEN ($10 USD).
• For the budget-conscious, go for lobster ceviche to get the most lobster for your money.

Tips for Finding the Lowest Lobster Prices

Beyond picking the right lobster destination, a few insider tips can help you score the best budget lobster deals:

• Shop for fresh lobster directly from fishermen at harbors and wharfs when possible. This eliminates retailer markups.

• Don’t be afraid to negotiate, especially directly with fishermen and fish markets. Haggling is often expected!

• Order lobster during lunch hours or early dinnertime – prices jump during prime dinner hours.

• Opt for lobster rolls, simple lobster plates, or lobster served as part of surf ‘n turf combos to maximize value.

• When dining out, check menus for daily specials featuring lobster discounts or all-you-can-eat lobster offerings.

• Be flexible on lobster sizes – smaller lobsters often sell at a discount compared to jumbo lobsters by weight.

• Research lobster seasons by destination – prices usually dip during peak harvest periods when abundance is highest.

With the right itinerary and a flexible approach, you can indulge your lobster cravings for a relative steal in iconic seafood destinations across the globe. Just don’t forget the melted butter and lemon wedges!