Best time to cruise to the Caribbean | finder.com.au
finder.com.au

Best time to cruise to the Caribbean

Check out the best time to cruise the Caribbean for pleasant weather, small crowds, and reasonable prices.

Avatar
Alex Keshen
Updated
Fact checked

We’re reader-supported and may be paid when you visit links to partner sites. We don’t compare all products in the market, but we’re working on it!

When you think of the Caribbean Islands, turquoise waters and tranquil white-sand beaches are most likely the first things that cross your mind. A Caribbean cruise takes your leisure holiday to a whole new level.

Based on our research, we have discovered the best time to cruise the Caribbean, to match your imagination with reality.

Best time to cruise to the Caribbean

Mid-January and April

Why?

In the months of January and April, the weather is sunny and the sea calm. The climate is dry and comfortable, making this the right time to enjoy a cruise. Because the Christmas/New Year’s school break has ended, the crowds are also smaller during these months, so you don’t have to pay higher prices for tickets or rush to purchase them.

Hurricane season begins in June, lasting until November. Even if there aren’t hurricanes, tropical storms and heavy rains are more common during these months and bring with them rougher seas and a less enjoyable experience.

Overview

Though Caribbean cruises can be enjoyed throughout the year, this is a tropical region and ships may have to be re-routed to avoid bad weather, so certain months are better suited to water sports and cruise enjoyment.

From December to April, the climate is at its driest and you are most likely to enjoy your cruise.

The wet season has many hurricanes and heavy storms and lasts from June to November. During this period, it’s possible that there may be alterations or cancellations to your original cruise itinerary if you’ve booked one.

The high season lasts from just before Christmas to early January, and picks up again from mid-February until early April. Due to the Caribbean’s proximity to the US and Canada, crowds come back over long weekends and holiday periods including Presidents’ Day (February), Easter, Thanksgiving (October/November) and Christmas/New Year school breaks.

Weather and prices

Best time to cruise the Caribbean, weatherwise: The weather is the most pleasant from December to April when it’s the driest and the sea is calm, making the conditions better suited to enjoying a Caribbean cruise

Cheapest time to cruise to the Caribbean: September to November are the cheapest months to cruise to the Caribbean as it's the rail end of hurricane season. While not ideal if you have your heart set on particular ports, cruise lines can alter their itineraries if there is a storm coming so you can still have an enjoyable sailing. Also make sure you have adequate cruise insurance if you are sailing during this time, as if you are affected by a storm you may be able to get cover for missed ports or major changes to your holiday.

Best time to cruise the Caribbean for:

  • Swimming: While water in the Caribbean is warm all year now, if you’re looking for those bathwater temperatures, head over during the spring months (March to May)
  • Snorkelling and scuba diving: Spring has the warmest water temperatures and clear visibility before the summer storms hit and churn up the waters in the area, affecting visibility and making it more difficult to swim.
  • Sunbathing on the cruise deck: Just giving in to the picturesque sights of the Caribbean on a cruise while soaking in the sun is a great way to unwind. The best time to sunbathe is from December through April when the weather is sunny and the climate is less humid.

Latest cruise deals

CruiseDirect CruiseDirect

Australia and New Zealand cruises from USD$228

Available on select dates in 2021-2022 with Royal Caribbean, Princess Cruises, Celebrity Cruises, Holland America Line and more. Sample rate is for a 3-night cruise with Carnival Cruises.

Last verified

Get deal
CruiseDirect CruiseDirect

Up to 71% off holiday cruises

Available on select cruises in 2021 and 2022 with Royal Caribbean, Carnival Cruises, MSC cruises and more. Destinations include Australia, New Zealand, Hawaii, Singapore, Caribbean, Bahamas and more. T&Cs apply.

Last verified

Get deal

Deal ends

CruiseDirect CruiseDirect

3+ nights last-minute cruises from USD$180

Available on select travel dates with Royal Caribbean, Carnival Cruises, Princess Cruises, Celebrity Cruises and more. Sample rate is for a 3-night Caribbean cruise with MSC. Destinations include Australia, Japan, Vietnam, Italy, Alaska and more. T&Cs apply.

Last verified

Get deal
Cheap O Air Cheap O Air

Cruise from just USD$159

Book a cruise with CheapOair on select travel dates. Destinations include Bahamas, Caribbean, Mixico and more.

Last verified

Get deal

More guides on Finder

Ask an Expert

You are about to post a question on finder.com.au:

  • Do not enter personal information (eg. surname, phone number, bank details) as your question will be made public
  • finder.com.au is a financial comparison and information service, not a bank or product provider
  • We cannot provide you with personal advice or recommendations
  • Your answer might already be waiting – check previous questions below to see if yours has already been asked

Finder only provides general advice and factual information, so consider your own circumstances, or seek advice before you decide to act on our content. By submitting a question, you're accepting our Terms of Use, Disclaimer & Privacy Policy and Privacy & Cookies Policy.
Go to site