Monday, April 1, 2024

Best Time for a Caribbean Cruise Weather, Seasons & More

best time to cruise the caribbean

Some islands may experience cooler temperatures but it is rarely ever below 60˚F (15˚C). These balmy conditions offer excellent swimming and snorkeling as well as warm evenings perfect for exploring local cuisine or simply relaxing after a long day at sea. Another factor to consider during this time is that most schools are in session so there will be fewer children onboard resulting in an overall quieter environment.

best time to cruise the caribbean

When to cruise Northern Europe for the best weather

Hurricane season runs between June 1 and November 30, and it is the time of year when we typically see tropical storms form in the Caribbean. Of course, that does not mean there is a hurricane every day, nor does it mean when there is one, the entire Caribbean is affected. September kicks off the school year and the peak hurricane season, so expect small crowds.

When do cruises go to the Caribbean?

If you’re traveling to the Caribbean in August, expect warm and humid weather, typically in the high 80s to low 90s. In Cozumel, the average high is around 91°F (33°C), while places like St. Lucia and Barbados are a bit cooler, averaging highs of 87°F (30°C). Although you may encounter occasional rainfall during this month, it typically clears up quickly. In the northern parts of the Caribbean, temperatures start to rise, while the southern islands experience blistering heat.

Winter: Moderate fares and quiet crowds (except during the holidays)

Royal Caribbean Blog - Unofficial blog about Royal Caribbean cruises - Royal Caribbean Blog

Royal Caribbean Blog - Unofficial blog about Royal Caribbean cruises.

Posted: Tue, 23 Apr 2024 04:39:57 GMT [source]

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. Given how the wet and dry seasons pan out, you are always better off booking your Caribbean cruise vacation during the calendar’s shoulder seasons, meaning late fall and early spring.

You can expect the highest level of rainfall in the Caribbean between the months of May and November. September and October are peak hurricane seasons, so there’s a higher chance of disruption and some ports of call may be cancelled or changed. With school out for the summer, and a slower pace in general, families are increasingly taking advantage of this time to travel together. A Caribbean cruise vacation conjures up images of swaying palm trees, sun-warmed beaches, aqua waves, and frosty tropical drinks.

A good vacation option during this time is the ABC islands (Aruba, Bonaire, and Curacao), which are less prone to hurricanes and storms. June is the first month of the wet season in the Caribbean, yet the chance of showers remains low across most islands. Expect an average of 6.1 inches of rainfall this month, with rain occurring on about 13 days.

The shoulder seasons, when temperatures are warming up or cooling off, are a less busy time to cruise Australia and New Zealand and offer slightly lower fares. By late spring, summer and fall, there are more festivals, sporting events and golf tournaments that bring visitors to the islands. In the summertime, you'll have family vacations and people with vacation homes in Bermuda returning for the season and warmer weather.

In addition, cruising between December and April means an escape for many guests who are coming from colder locations further north. When it is 5 degrees at home, spending the day in the Caribbean can be a really great idea. However, encountering a storm is more probable than facing a hurricane during this month.

Caribbean Weather in September

Bennett adds that full days of rain are rare in most parts of the Caribbean and consecutive rainy days are even more unheard of. "If your definition of good weather constitutes clear skies and warm temperatures, then anytime is a great time to visit the Caribbean," he notes. "That is, of course, unless you're opting for a hillside mountaintop retreat somewhere in the Caribbean's many rainforests,” which he says can get chilly during the winter months. Spring — late April and most of May — is regarded as shoulder season, with competitive pricing.

If you want to experience the true essence of Caribbean culture and party like a local, be sure to book your cruise during the carnival season. The festivities are contagious, and you’ll be immersed in the infectious energy and excitement that fills the air during this time. As events occur throughout the year, anytime can be considered the best time to travel to the Caribbean. With year-round opportunities to sail through the teal-blue waters, any of our Caribbean cruises can transport you to a state of total relaxation and bliss. Escape the biting temperatures of winter and retreat to the invigorating climates of the Caribbean where palm tree-lined beaches and rivers await you. Besides the tropical scenery, the Caribbean also boasts an alluring culture.

For those on a tighter budget, consider cruising between May and July, which falls within the shoulder season. "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. Atlantic hurricane season generally runs from June through November, but late summer and early fall can be a tempting time for travelers who want to avoid the crowds, says Bennett. Keep an eye on the weather, buy travel insurance, and book hotels that offer hurricane guarantees.

You can also cruise the Caribbean during the wet season (June to November) as long as you’re prepared for rainfall and possible itinerary changes. From August to October, during the hurricane season’s peak, it’s best to avoid cruising the Western and Eastern Caribbean and cruise to the Southern Caribbean (especially the ABC Islands) instead. 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. 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.

The key is knowing which area to cruise to and when to get full enjoyment out of every moment of your cruise vacation. The best time to cruise the Caribbean for you can depend on your schedule, whether school or work, your travel budget, and your travel desires. Sail on the Norwegian Bliss, the newest ship in the fleet, and everyone in the family will enjoy a nonstop fun day and night. The Entourage Teens Club gives older teens the chance to meet friends, dance, and play video games. Younger kids will have a blast at Splash Academy where they can play sports and participate in supervised themed activities. This opportunity leaves mom and dad free to enjoy all that the Norwegian Bliss has to offer, from relaxing spa treatments to excitement at the award-winning casino.

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