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Overall, the best diving in the Caribbean can be found between November and May. As such, top attractions and activities could mean wildly different things to different people." The Caribbean is known for its stunning turquoise waters, vibrant cultures, and breathtaking landscapes.
Winter: Moderate fares and quiet crowds (except during the holidays)
If I had to pick based on weather, cost and crowds, I'd vote winter as the best time to cruise the Caribbean. While cruise lines are usually prepared to sail away from storms, it's always a good idea to supplement low fares with travel insurance for incidentals like flight changes. January and February are two of the best months to cruise the Caribbean for those who need a break from gray, wet winter weather. You'll also find the some of the most diverse cruise lengths and itineraries throughout the region in January and February.
The Best Time to Cruise the Caribbean: A Month-by-Month Breakdown
Booking early will ensure that you get your pick of the best stateroom categories on the ship. Make sure you also reserve specialty restaurants and shore excursions early, too. The off-peak season, from May to November, might be appealing for those looking to avoid crowds and find lower prices.
When is the best time to cruise the Caribbean?
Aruba, Cozumel, Grand Cayman and St. Thomas often have average high temperatures of more than 90 degrees during the day. The heat can make time on the beaches or shopping in the cruise ports uncomfortably hot. Recreational land activities on arid islands such as Aruba are even more uncomfortable. But some months are better than others, especially late winter, spring and early summer when temperatures are warm and the risk of rain is low. The Bahamas is located in the Atlantic Ocean rather than the Caribbean Sea, but it's a popular cruise destination. The best time to cruise the Bahamas is also during the dry season, from December to April.
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. Summer also is a popular time to cruise for families because children have a summer break from school. The risk of rainfall rises as the summer advances, so anyone planning a cruise will find that early summer has a lower chance of rain in many destinations than later summer.
When is the best time to cruise to the Southern Caribbean?
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. "Perfect weather" in the Caribbean would likely equate to sunny days with warm water, delightful breezes, and minimal rainfall and humidity. 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.
The best time to cruise the Caribbean is during the dry season, which lasts from December to May. The Caribbean is blessed with gorgeous beaches that are wonderful year-round. In the rainy season, visibility might not be so good for snorkelling off the beach, so look at snorkel excursions that take you out on a boat over one of the many reefs.
Every one of our Caribbean cruises stops into Half Moon Cay, our top-rate private island, so you will enjoy some seclusion no matter when you go. If you want to avoid the hurricane season, aim for the dry season from December to April. However, if you prefer more budget-friendly options and don't mind some rain, you can consider cruising during the shoulder seasons.
I spent $3214 on a 10-night Royal Caribbean cruise. Here's what everything cost, from my $1273 flight to $230 ... - Royal Caribbean Blog
I spent $3214 on a 10-night Royal Caribbean cruise. Here's what everything cost, from my $1273 flight to $230 ....
Posted: Mon, 18 Dec 2023 08:00:00 GMT [source]
During this period, the weather is generally sunny and dry, with low chances of rain. This is the perfect time to enjoy outdoor activities such as snorkeling, swimming, and exploring the beautiful islands. The calm seas and pleasant temperatures make for a comfortable cruising experience, and the clear blue skies provide breathtaking views from the ship’s deck. If you prefer warm and dry weather, the dry season is the ideal time to plan your Caribbean adventure. 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.
Book an early shoulder season cruise in May to take advantage of the best weather with fewer crowds. Explore Fort Amsterdam, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, in Willemstad, Curacao, then shop the vibrant open-air markets and sample the Dutch take on waffles. This may be the perfect season for you if you prefer not only less crowded Caribbean islands, but possibly a less crowded onboard cruise experience as well.
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.
The shortest Southern Caribbean cruises are five or six days and leave from places such as Barbados, San Juan and St. Thomas. You can find weeklong sailings from Florida, but more commonly, they're eight nights or longer. Common destinations on Southern Caribbean cruise itineraries include Aruba, Bonaire, Curacao, Barbados, Trinidad, St. Lucia, Dominica, Martinique and Grenada. You'll find everything from gorgeous beaches and diving destinations to lush rainforests and flowing waterfalls. As with the Western Caribbean, seven-night Eastern Caribbean cruises are the most common itinerary length.
The lively atmosphere, vibrant nightlife, and numerous activities and events make for an unforgettable cruise experience. With school holidays being a popular time for family vacations, it’s essential to decide if you prefer a quieter time to cruise. The holiday season, including Christmas, New Year, and spring break, tends to attract a surge in family travelers as well as college kids. Consequently, this influx of passengers can result in crowded ships and packed tourist spots. So, if you’re seeking a more peaceful and relaxed vacation, it may be wise to steer clear during these times and opt for less busy periods instead.
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