9 Tips for Booking a Cruise to the Southern Caribbean

Table Of Content

• What months should you not go on a Caribbean cruise?
• Caribbean Cruise in January or February: Clear Skies and Perfect Temperatures
• When is the Cheapest Time to Cruise the Caribbean?
• Ports of Call in the Southern Caribbean Are Determined by Ship Size, so Choose Your Ship Carefully

For that kind of weather, Brittney Magner, vice president of luxury travel sales at Royal Travel and a Travel + Leisure A-List Advisor, says January through May is the ideal time to visit. Aruba is outside of the hurricane belt and doesn’t have a monsoon season. The best time to cruise the Western and Southern Caribbean is winter, as the waters are warm, and the temps are comfortable. Spring is a great time to take an Eastern Caribbean cruise as the cooler waters near the Bahamas heat up. The worst months to cruise the Caribbean are generally during the peak hurricane season months, lasting from August to October.

What months should you not go on a Caribbean cruise?

In conclusion, the best time to cruise the Caribbean depends on various factors such as weather preferences, budget, crowd preferences, and desired activities. The peak season from December to April offers ideal weather conditions and a vibrant atmosphere, but prices are higher, and the crowds can be overwhelming. The shoulder season from July to November provides more affordable rates, but it comes with a higher risk of hurricanes. With proper planning and consideration, you can embark on a Caribbean cruise that fulfills all your vacation dreams. During these months, the weather is at its best, with warm temperatures and low chances of rain.

Best Time to Cruise to Cozumel: A Month-by-Month Guide - Cruise Critic

Best Time to Cruise to Cozumel: A Month-by-Month Guide.

Posted: Wed, 21 Feb 2024 08:00:00 GMT [source]

Caribbean Cruise in January or February: Clear Skies and Perfect Temperatures

This is the perfect time for those looking to escape the winter cold and soak up the sun on beautiful sandy beaches. The Caribbean islands are bustling with tourists during this period, as it coincides with winter vacations in many countries. The lively atmosphere, vibrant nightlife, and numerous activities and events make for an unforgettable cruise experience. This month falls just outside the peak tourist season and before the start of the hurricane season, offering a sweet spot with less crowded beaches, affordable prices, and generally pleasant weather. With the rainy season not yet in full swing, visitors can enjoy warm, sunny days perfect for exploring the islands’ natural beauty and sunswept beaches. The dry season in the Caribbean typically occurs from December to April, coinciding with the peak season for cruising.

When is the Cheapest Time to Cruise the Caribbean?

Lauderdale, Port Canaveral, Tampa and Miami; though you might find a few other U.S. embarkation ports such as Bayonne and Baltimore further up the east coast. Travelers, with British-based cruise line P&O and the Italian Costa calling there. The summer months are also the best time to see several species of whales off the coast of Newfoundland, including humpback whales.

When is the Caribbean’s rainy season?

Hot temperatures make long days near the sea enticing, though you are more likely to encounter a day or two of rain in some parts of the Caribbean in May or June. Of course, it’s no surprise why travelers flock to the Caribbean during the early spring months. The weather is often blissful, with temperatures fluctuating between the mid-70s to low-90s. Plus, March and April are still well within the dry season, so you won’t have to worry about rain or storms during your trip down south. During the months of January through March, you’ll find idyllic tropical weather with temperatures in the mid 70s to low 80s and low humidity. January also marks the beginning of the Caribbean dry season, which greatly minimizes the chance of rain during your cruise vacation.

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If your aim is to cruise with your own children while they are on break, there are plenty of ships with age-appropriate facilities. You'll have options like splash zones for the little ones, monster slides for the adventurers and kids clubs for all ages. Luckily, you will likely have nice weather no matter what time of the year you sail to the Caribbean. Certain times of the year may be more warm, humid, or rainy than others, but in general, the weather in the Caribbean is warm and breezy.

It also coincides with the peak hurricane season, which runs from August to October. Trinidad and Tobago, along with the ABC islands, are great destinations year-round, even in the height of hurricane season. Late November and early to mid-December are also shoulder season and can be a fantastic time to travel. Americans tend to celebrate Thanksgiving, their biggest annual holiday, at home with family, so cruises falling over the fourth Thursday in November can be a real bargain. Early December, too, is perfect for avoiding the darkest nights of the British winter and working on a pre-Christmas tan. You will, however, want to avoid booking a cruise around the holidays at the end of the year and during spring break (March and early April).

This makes them great for cruisers who want to avoid the uncertainty and potential disruptions caused by hurricane seasons, which can affect other parts of the Caribbean from June to November. As mentioned earlier, the peak season for cruising the Caribbean, from December to April, is when prices tend to be at their highest. If budget is not a major concern for you and you prefer to travel when the weather is at its best and the atmosphere is buzzing, then the high season rates may not be an issue. However, if you are looking to save some money on your cruise, it may be worth considering other options. Choose your best time to book your cruise and reserve your vacation to The Caribbean today.

Viking takes an entirely different approach to no-kids cruises, catering to mature travelers craving culture and educational vacations. It also offers wintertime Caribbean cruises, though many are paired with a Panama Canal crossing. To avoid the busy season, the best time to go on a Caribbean cruise is from November to early December. While every cruise journey offers intimate experiences, expeditions during this time will allow you to take in quieter beaches or more in-depth tours of Mayan ruins. Not to mention, November and December offer various voyages to help you escape the frosty Fahrenheits at home and dip your toes into the warm waters of a Caribbean winter. Revel in seasonal activities on board – like an elaborate Thanksgiving feast or a magical gingerbread house-making contest – and experience the holiday season like never before.

Watch the sunset from your ship after a day of hanging in a hammock on a Cozumel beach. West Indians know how to party, and they let loose at festivals throughout the year that showcase their vibrant traditions and culture. Almost every island hosts an annual event to celebrate its heritage with music, dance, food or sailing, often in the form of an exuberant pre-Lent carnival. Consider yourself lucky if you can plan your visit to coincide with one of these lively events.

The festival is celebrated with events from May to August, with the biggest celebration taking place on Grand Kadooment Day in early August. If you are looking to get the lowest cost for a Caribbean cruise, late August through early November see some of the lowest prices of the year. Here's a look at what each month of the year is like for a Caribbean cruise so that you can pick the best time for your family to cruise the Caribbean. This can mean your itinerary can be disrupted, or the cruise line will be forced to cancel the voyage entirely. While this outcome is fairly unlikely, it can be a concern for those who cannot delay their trip due to work commitments.

Summer is from May to October, and winter falls between November and April. Since the temperatures are similar during both seasons, the best time to cruise the islands is when there's less chance of precipitation, which is during the summer months of June, July and August. Sun, sand and sea are what most travelers want when they book a cruise to the Caribbean. If you want to trade chilly weather at home for warm, sunny days spent relaxing on a beach or swimming in clear blue waters, a Caribbean cruise is an ideal vacation.

So, whether you’re a beginner or an experienced water sports enthusiast, be sure to pack your swimsuit and dive into the endless adventures awaiting you. From January through March, The Caribbean has near perfect weather for all types of activities. The weather provides a nice contrast to the blustery winter temperatures that dominate much of the United States during these months. Temperatures are in the low 70s to mid-80s Fahrenheit in most places in The Caribbean. These months are also the beginning of the dry season, so you can expect abundant sunshine throughout the day.

The Best Time to Cruise the Caribbean

Table Of Content

• Best time to cruise Alaska to avoid crowds
• More from The Times and The Sunday Times
• Best time to cruise Australia and New Zealand: December-February
• Best and Worst Times to Cruise the Caribbean
• Cruise the Southern Caribbean at the Best Time, Which Is Anytime
• Caribbean Vacations June Through August

That said, if you are planning a family cruise, our Club Hal youth activities program can keep the kiddos entertained so parents can relax. Adam's goal is to enhance your cruising adventures with practical tips and insightful advice, making each of your journeys unforgettable. The Western Caribbean is usually hotter and more humid than other parts of the Caribbean. Places such as Jamaica, Cozumel, and Belize often have high humidity and can see temperatures reaching as high as 90°F (32°C). Call at tiny Nevis during the first week of July and you’ll come across a gathering of celebrity chefs, here for the annual Mango Festival. Carnival in Trinidad and Tobago the Monday and Tuesday before Ash Wednesday, is regarded as second in the world only to the festivities in Rio de Janeiro.

Best time to cruise Alaska to avoid crowds

Crop Over is a summer festival in Barbados that celebrates the end of the sugar cane harvest. During July and into early August, expect special markets, parades and celebrations. In Grenada, Spicemas, held during the second Monday and Tuesday in August, celebrates the island's multicultural heritage with live music and festivities. July brings rain to the Eastern Caribbean (including Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands) and August is wet in the Bahamas, Martinique and Dominica. Caribbean Sea temperatures are at their warmest in August, reaching 83 degrees on average. Keep in mind that spring break -- for both younger kids and college students -- can mean things are crowded and lively on board and on land at this time of year.

More from The Times and The Sunday Times

Beginning at the very end of April and into May, Antigua Sailing Week is globally known for its prestigious sailing races and parties. Tons of music and jazz festivals take place around the Caribbean this time of year, including the Pure Grenada Music Festival in May and the St. Kitts Music Festival in June. If you have a sudden impulse to travel, enjoy a flexible schedule or no schedule at all, and are not picky about stateroom selection, you might be able to snap up a last-minute offer. Visiting during any month has advantages and disadvantages, so it ultimately depends on what type of weather and crowds you want. When you're ready to skip the beach and the Crayola-colored landscape, consider some cultural enrichment.

Best time to cruise Australia and New Zealand: December-February

Is January a good time for a cruise? - Royal Caribbean Blog

Is January a good time for a cruise?.

Posted: Thu, 07 Dec 2023 08:00:00 GMT [source]

You'll also find that most everything is open during that time and easier to see without battling the crowds. The shoulder season months are also the least crowded times to visit Alaska because kids are in school and fewer families are vacationing. Just be aware that if you head to Alaska early in the spring, some of the stores may not have opened yet. Arrive in the fall, and you may find that tour operators and shops have begun to cut back hours or have closed. If you're looking for an adults-only option, Virgin Voyages caters to the young at heart with its edgy new ships. It offers six- and seven-night Caribbean cruises from the late fall until early spring.

To get the best price on a cruise, it’s generally recommended to book several months to a year in advance. This early booking period allows you to take advantage of early bird discounts and a wider selection of cabins. However, if you’re flexible with your travel plans, you might also find last-minute deals as cruise lines aim to fill unsold cabins closer to the departure date. The weeks between Thanksgiving and mid-December are another budget-friendly opportunity for Caribbean cruises.

Depending on where your cruise departs from and stops, you may have a day or two at sea. Because there are so many more Southern Caribbean islands, these cruises are typically faster-paced, stopping at a new island every day of the cruise. Because of this factor, you should choose a Southern cruise if you’re really interested in exploring and sightseeing rather than relaxing. Numerous islands make up the Southern Caribbean, giving it the most variety of the three regions. Because this area is farther from any U.S. ports and there are so many potential islands to stop at, Southern Caribbean cruises are typically longer than cruises to the other regions. Many cruises to the Southern Caribbean will also make stops in the Eastern islands on their way through — the difference here is that where Eastern cruises turn around, Southern cruises continue on.

We make sure cruisers are fully prepared for their cruise vacation with tips on ships and ports.Millions of travelers rely on Cruise Hive in the United States, Europe, Australia, and around the world. This is one of the reasons why Caribbean cruises during the summer tend to be relatively affordable. Not only is there a higher risk of rainfall and high humidity levels, but you also risk trip disruptions due to storms and hurricanes.

Caribbean Vacations June Through August

The height of the Panama Canal cruise season is between October and April. The warmest months in Northern Europe are mid-June to August, making the height of the summer season the most desirable time to cruise Scandinavia and the Baltic region. This is also the Land of the Midnight Sun, where you'll have nearly 24 hours of sunlight in places like northern Norway from early June to mid-July. Look to the shoulder season to find the best deals on Mediterranean cruises.

Best time to cruise the Mediterranean: April-May, September-October

If your heart is set on traveling to Hawaii in the summer, or you want to escape the winter's snow at home in February, look for deals with an early booking. You can also take a chance and wait for last-minute specials if you're flexible. Seriously, you can almost always find a deal on a Caribbean cruise if you're flexible enough with your travel dates and cabin types. The following Caribbean cruise ports are generally standouts, no matter your travel style. Don't let planning a rejuvenating vacation add more stress to your life.

The two shoulder seasons – from April to early June and September to October – offer comfortable temperatures, but you'll need to dress in layers. For example, in May 2023, you can sail on a seven-night Western Mediterranean voyage from Barcelona to Rome with Princess Cruises starting at $699 per person. If you prefer to travel in the fall, you can still find a good deal on the same itinerary for $848 per person in September. Since you'll have the greatest choice of ships midsummer, you might luck out and find a one-off deal if you can be flexible about ship and sail date.

Fall, especially September and early October, is not a bad time to cruise to the Caribbean – unless you are a worrier or someone who can't go with the flow when travel plans go awry. That's because the autumn months are the peak season for hurricanes and tropical storms. When it isn't stormy, it might still be a bit warm and sticky for some early in the season. Of course, peak season cruising means higher prices and a winter cruise will cost you more on average than a summer or fall cruise. The cheapest time for a Caribbean cruise is between August and November because school is back in session and the threat of hurricanes and a higher chance of rain.

The shoulder seasons may not be the warmest, but they typically offer better pricing than summer cruises. For example, a 14-night sailing to the Baltic with Holland America is $949 in early May 2023 but $1,329 in mid-June. Many cruise lines also run sales at the end of the summer or during Black Friday/Cyber Monday, and Caribbean sailings are almost always included. Many people would agree with me that a Caribbean cruise is the perfect antidote to the winter doldrums and work stress, plus a wonderful way to reconnect with friends and loved ones. The ship takes care of everything -- transportation, accommodation, meals and entertainment – so you can skip much of the daily planning drama and simply enjoy your vacation and travel companions. Every day you wake up to warm weather and sunny skies (well, most of the time) and a new destination promising white sand beaches, fun activities and memories to be made.

Barbados has a well-earned reputation for a proper New Year’s blowout and many Caribbean islands celebrate Carnival with live music, parades, and feathery garb. Panama offers a blend of historical marvels and tropical biodiversity just waiting to be explored. Take in the stunning sights during a scenic cruise across Gatun Lake, immerse yourself in Costa Rica's lush woodlands, and revel in the refreshing waters of Jamaica's waterfalls.

This period marks the transition from the high season to the off-peak season, and you may find deals before the summer crowds arrive. The Southern Caribbean, encompassing destinations such as Aruba, Bonaire, and Curacao, has a more stable climate throughout the year. You can visit the Southern Caribbean year-round, but the peak season is still during the drier months from December to April.

Ask a local for a recommendation and take a taxi or ride-hailing service there. When you choose to apply (and are approved) for a new credit card through our site, we may receive compensation from our partners, and this may impact how or where these products appear. Please view our advertising policy and product review methodology for more information. Tickets for cruises that set sail between January and March are usually among the most affordable. This is because these months and those between them are when demand is high enough to warrant an increased number of cruise voyages, but they miss the most pleasant months of November and April. While it may surprise you, some of the most affordable months of the year to cruise the Caribbean are some of the most pleasant months to travel in the region.

This experience provides a great learning opportunity for kids of all ages. Take an adventure catamaran tour and snorkel among the marine life that occupies a shipwreck below the sea. Since the Caribbean Sea averages about 81 degrees during May and June, this time of year is great for water activities as well.