Taking a cruise is wonderful form of vacation; cruises offer luxury, good food, activities and adventure all while sailing the high seas. Cruises are special occasions; oftentimes, the enjoyment of the cruise is contingent on weather and climate.
When is the best time of year to go on a cruise? There is not one single answer for that question; after all, cruises travel all over the world. The first step in determining the optimum time to go on a cruise is to determine the destination you desire.
The Caribbean is one of the most popular destinations. Island nations in the Caribbean include the Cayman Islands, the Bahamas, Puerto Rico, parts of Mexico and Jamaica. The best time of year to book a cruise to the Caribbean is late November and early December. Fares during these times are relatively low; the hurricane season (June to November) dies down and the weather is still comfortable.
South America is a popular destination. The warmest months there are January and February. February is the best month for a South American cruise; Carnival in Brazil takes place in February. Rates are still reasonable at this time of year, and hurricane season has yet to begin.
The best time for an Alaskan cruise is from May to September. July and August are the most popular months because temperatures are higher. Choosing a cruise in May is great because of spring foliage. September allows for the view of autumn foliage; however, weather becomes a problem as the temperature decreases.
European cruises are based in either the Mediterranean or the Baltic Sea region. For both regions, September and November are considered the best times to go. There are many cruise options available, costs are down because the high season (June-August) is over and the weather is still mild.
