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Keep in mind that this period is also the peak season, potentially resulting in higher costs. For those on a tighter budget, consider cruising between May and July, which falls within the shoulder season. Another less-than-ideal time to cruise the Caribbean is during the holiday seasons, especially around Christmas, New Year’s, and Thanksgiving. The ships are more crowded, and the festive rush means that ports are busier than usual, detracting from the relaxed atmosphere many seek. The off-peak season, from May to November, might be appealing for those looking to avoid crowds and find lower prices. During this time, you’ll find lower prices on cruises and accommodations, making it more budget-friendly.
Caribbean Weather by Month: The Best Time for a Caribbean Cruise
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. The Caribbean weather is mid-to-upper 80s and June is one of the wettest months in the islands.
Best Caribbean cruise for families: Disney Cruise Line
For family fun on the high seas, try a seven-night Western Caribbean cruise aboard Disney Fantasy. Departing from Port Canaveral, the ship stops in Cozumel, Mexico; George Town, Grand Cayman; Falmouth, Jamaica; and Castaway Cay, Disney's private island. As you might expect, the line caters heavily to families in every aspect of the cruise experience — from onboard attractions to family-friendly cabin configurations. At the time of publication, prices for the seven-night Eastern Caribbean cruise started from $1,731 per person. Book flights that depart and arrive in time for Caribbean cruises with Holland America Line Flight Ease®.
March/ April
If you don't mind spring break crowds, spring is a wonderful time to cruise. The weather in the Caribbean in March, April and May is idyllic, and the seas are likely to be calm. Plus, escaping the last of winter's wrath at home can be just what the doctor ordered to save your sanity. Swimming, snorkeling, or scuba diving are common activities for port stops. The Caribbean Sea remains warm much of the year, with ocean temperatures staying in the 80s with minor variation.
Seasons in the Caribbean: Dry Season and Wet Season
While there isn’t a particular time of year that needs to be avoided when cruising to the Caribbean, you may prefer a certain time of the year based on your schedule and cruising style. Celebrated throughout the Caribbean, the most famous Caribbean carnival is in Port of Spain, Trinidad & Tobago. Carnival in Trinidad & Tobago is held each year on the Monday and Tuesday before Ash Wednesday.
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One of the best parts about the Southern Caribbean, and particularly the ABC Islands, is their location outside the hurricane belt. This geographical advantage means that unlike other Caribbean regions, these islands rarely experience hurricanes. 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. If you choose to travel during peak hurricane season, there is also the risk that a hurricane or serious tropical storm will disrupt your cruise vacation. This gives you that perfect blend of warm and sunny weather while minimizing your risk of rainfall and severe storms.
Depending on the cruise line you book a trip with, you may be sailing on a big commercial cruise ship or a small private yacht. While both options offer great opportunities for Caribbean cruises, a smaller cruise may be better for you if you’re looking for a more intimate trip. Additionally, smaller ships can sail into smaller ports, allowing you to discover hidden gems in the Caribbean. While any time of year can be enjoyable in the Caribbean, this is especially true of the Southern Caribbean. Many of these islands lie below the hurricane belt, meaning they’re less likely to be directly impacted.
Summer months are also perfect for multi-generational cruising, as they are often the only months when everyone's schedules align. And when you have a group to manage, you need as many activities as possible to keep everyone entertained. Summer cruises in the Caribbean make that easy with plenty of options, both on board and in port. The weather at home can be unpredictable in the winter, possibly affecting your departure travel plans and preventing you from reaching your Caribbean cruise. Plus, winter storms in the U.S. can increase wave action in the Atlantic and in the Gulf of Mexico.
Best times to go on a cruise: Alaska, Caribbean, Mediterranean - USA TODAY
Best times to go on a cruise: Alaska, Caribbean, Mediterranean.
Posted: Thu, 29 Feb 2024 08:00:00 GMT [source]
Bennet says while he does not think there is a "worst time" to visit the Caribbean, he prefers to visit when the crowds have gone away. Ultimately, the best and worst times to go to the Caribbean depend on your island of choice and travel goals, but we think almost any time is a great time for a beach getaway. 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. 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.
Temperatures can be warm and enjoyable, but many people find that the humidity can be unpleasant. Rain is also more frequent, which can make excursions and exploring ports of call far less enjoyable. The warm, clear, and calm waters of the Caribbean are a significant part of the appeal of cruising south.
On-shore excursions are also more comfortable during this time of year, which is ideal if you plan on exploring. Since hurricane season can heavily affect this region, cruising during winter is best to avoid tropical storms. 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.
The best deals in the Caribbean can often be found when the weather is at its worst — during hurricane season. At the same time, a small window exists in the dead of winter when good deals can be found. "The most ideal bargain period extends from early January to early February," said Bennett.
Or enjoy hot chocolate and gingerbread-house building throughout your time on board. Then, make your way ashore where balmy Caribbean cruise weather encourages you to float down the tree-lined rivers of Falmouth, Jamaica, on a bamboo raft. Or dive beneath the water to explore rainbow-colored reefs and marine life on a snorkeling expedition in Martinique. With adventures teeming both above and below the surface, pack your bags for a winter to remember. While the rainy season lasts from the beginning of October through November, these are some of the best months to cruise to the Caribbean.
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