Those awards are not capacity controlled. So if there's a seat for sale you can get one for miles. Typically double miles which is prohibitive for many but I guess nice to have as an option when it really counts.

Definitely subscribe to expertflyer.com. They just installed a feature that makes it more intuitive to search for award availability which you will likely find handy.

And if the flights are wide open and it's not a very busy route/time there's nothing wrong with waitlisting as you might well clear. Especially since you are meeting a cruise and probably aren't flexible. You can buy tickets, ask for the upgrade waitlist, and cross your fingers.

Of course you could do an Aanytime award but there are lots of reasons (usually EQM earning) why you may prefer not to.