Working out when to cruise can be a challenge at the best of times, especially if your holiday availability is limited – or you’re working around the summer months and school holidays. However, even if that is the case, it’s something well worth thinking about ahead of booking your next adventure with Iglu Cruise.
We know warm weather and endless sunny beach days are never a bad thing, but that doesn’t actually mean the height of summer is always the best time to travel. In some parts of the world, the heat during the summer months can actually become almost unbearable for travellers not used to the higher temperatures; this makes enjoying shore excursions and days exploring exciting environments rather uncomfortable. And, in the southern hemisphere, the seasons are flipped. Our summer is actually their winter, and vice versa.
This may complicate your holiday planning a little, we know, but Iglu Cruise is here to help. We have looked at all the travel trends, considered peak cruise seasons, double-checked local weather reports, and checked the school holiday calendar to work out the best time to cruise to unforgettable destinations around the world – be that the Caribbean, the Mediterranean, South America, or anywhere else.
Keep reading to find out more information about the best time to cruise, whether it’s worth considering a cruise outside of these times, when you should hold off and wait for better cruise deals, and more.
Contents:
- Best Time to Cruise in the Mediterranean
- Best Time to Cruise to the Canary Islands
- Best Time to Cruise around the British Isles
- Best Time to Cruise in Europe
- Best Time to Cruise in Asia
- Best Time to Cruise in the Caribbean
- Best Time to Cruise to the Norwegian Fjords
- Best Time to Cruise in North America
- Best Time to Cruise in South America
- Best Time to Cruise in the Middle East
- Best Time to Cruise in Australasia
- Best Time to Cruise to Antarctica
- Best Time to Cruise to the Galapagos Islands
- Cruise Season Calendar
- When to Book Your Cruise Early
- When to Wait When Booking Your Cruise
- Frequently Asked Questions on When To Cruise
Best Time to Cruise in the Mediterranean
One of the UK’s most popular cruise destinations, an escape to the Mediterranean is always magical and every type of traveller will find something to enjoy here. Home to an impressive variety of rich cultures, mouth-watering cuisines you’ll want more and more of, and breathtaking landscapes with picturesque views everywhere you look, this is also one part of the world that enjoys mild weather year-round. So, while there will be more rainfall in the winter months, it’s not cold very often. Although, that isn’t the only thing worth considering when it comes to booking Mediterranean cruises.
The main cruise season when it comes to the Mediterranean stretches all the way from April to November, with the summer months from June to September considered the peak. During these months, you should expect cruises to be busier and prices to be higher; however, these months will be when the weather is warmest and driest. Aside from the fact that this is the best time of year to enjoy the beaches here, you’ll also find more beachfront businesses – like bars, cafes, and restaurants – open and available during this peak season. It's also great for families, with all the top family cruise destinations in the Mediterranean ideal holiday destinations during the summer months.
That being said, there’s a very strong case to be made for cruising through the Mediterranean during the shoulder months: April to May, and September to November. While the weather won’t be at its warmest, and the chance of rain is higher, you’ll find fewer tourists in the travel hotspots during these months and cruises are generally a little cheaper. So, if you’re someone who wants to spend time visiting the abundance of incredible museums in the Mediterranean’s major cities and explore the ancient ruins found throughout this remarkable region – such as those in Athens and Rome, or outside Kusadasi – these months are definitely worth considering.
You’ll also find the atmosphere in tourist hotspots and ports of call generally more laid back during these shoulder months, something that will suit travellers who prefer slower-paced adventures and shore excursions perfectly – provided you don’t mind dealing with the very occasional rain shower. For those of you looking for more inspiration, you'll find some of the top things to do on a Santorini cruise getaway here; this is a great place to go when the sun is shining, and you'll find plenty to occupy your time with once you arrive.
Best Time to Cruise to the Canary Islands
Much like the Mediterranean, there’s never a particularly bad time to cruise to the Canary Islands; this charming archipelago in the Atlantic Ocean enjoys temperate weather year-round, with highs in the summer months nearing 30 degrees and lows in the winter months still around 15 degrees on average. So, if you’re someone looking for some winter sunshine close to home, you could certainly do a lot worse than the Canary Islands. However, there is the rainfall to think about, as this is something you may want to avoid entirely when embarking on your well-earned holiday. It’s not often torrential, but it will be something you need to deal with if you choose to travel during the cooler, less-popular winter months.
During the summer months, which stretch from June to September, the climate in the Canary Islands is hot and dry – ideal weather for beachgoers and sun-soakers. This, as you might imagine when coupled with the school summer holidays, is when cruises to the Canary Islands are their most popular; so, the cruises themselves will be busier, the tourist hotspots will be more lively, and the prices for sailings to this collection of sunny islands are generally a little higher. This is why, unless you’re working around those aforementioned school holidays, it’s actually better to travel to the Canary Islands just before and just after this peak: late April into May, and late September into October.
During both of these periods, the weather will still be warm and dry enough for you to enjoy all the outdoor activities you want, and you’ll avoid the rush of tourists and travellers that visit during the peak of summer. The waters around the Canary Islands are never going to be too warm, due to the islands’ position in the Atlantic Ocean, but the conditions are perfect for sea swimming and watersports too.
One thing worth keeping in mind, though, is that the whale-watching opportunities here are best during the winter months. So, if you’re travelling with that particular activity on your wish list, you may want to forgo the summer sunshine to ensure you’re able to spot these magnificent creatures when you go on a whale-watching excursion. The snow-capped mountains you’ll see here during the winter months are also stunning, something you won’t see if you take advantage of Canary Islands cruise deals sailing during the summer.
Best Time to Cruise around the British Isles
For those of you who want to explore the British Isles via cruise, the best time to do so would be throughout spring and into summer. This is when the weather will be most agreeable, and – provided you don’t travel during the school holidays – the price of your cruise will be quite attractive. Sunny weather can grace the British Isles as early as April and, while you will find rainy days throughout the year, can last until September.
Much like other holiday hotspots in the northern hemisphere, ports of call and tourist attractions throughout the British Isles will be busiest during the holidays – with several school holidays throughout the aforementioned period and the major school summer holidays stretching from July to late August. This is when you’ll have the most options when it comes to shore-based attractions, but also when cruise fares will be at their most expensive. So, unless you’re only able to embark on a cruise adventure during the school holidays, it’s a good idea to avoid them. Cruising outside of these will also afford you a more laid-back experience, while the weather itself may still be quite warm.
If you’re looking for other options, though, cruising the British Isles during the winter months can be an enjoyable experience – depending on what you want from your adventure. You’re likely to find that historic sites and attractions will have limited opening hours during the winter months, but the majority of them will be open year-round; so, you’re not going to miss out on seeing any sights or visiting any museums because of the cooler weather. If you’re sailing around Scotland, you’ll also have the chance to see the Aurora Borealis on a clear evening – with anytime from October to March considered a good time to witness this natural phenomenon.
The main thing to keep in mind, though, when booking British Isles cruises, is whether you want to deal with the weather that comes with the winter months, or spend a little extra to give yourself a better chance of enjoying uninterrupted sunshine. The reputation these islands have, that it’s always grey and dreary, isn’t entirely unfounded after all. Outside the height of summer, it can be bright and sunny one day, then overcast with a cool breeze the next. That’s not going to stop you enjoying all the unique castles, historical monuments, and rugged natural beauty along the British coastline, though.
Best Time to Cruise in Europe
Largely enjoying a similar climate to the British Isles, the best time of year to cruise around Europe – generally speaking – is from April to May and from September to October: the shoulder months either side of the summer holidays. During these periods, you’ll find the weather is warm, the tourist hotspots aren’t as busy, and the cruise prices are more competitive. In the spring, before the summer holidays really get going, you’ll find Europe in bloom with vibrant colours making each scenic spot shine. Meanwhile, when travelling in the autumn months, you’ll have the chance to enjoy picturesque oranges and browns as summer transitions into winter. By mid-October, in some European cruise destinations, you may even start to see some snow. With a lot of the interesting activities and shore excursions in these destinations not fully reliant on good weather, you’re not going to be missing out on anything by embarking on European cruises outside of the peak season.
There are, though, perks to cruising in Europe at other times of the year. The warmer weather you’ll enjoy in the summer months is ideal if you’re looking to soak up some sunshine and spend time relaxing on the beaches found at each destination. Although, if you’d rather spend your time ashore taking advantage of some of the excellent hiking routes found throughout Europe, you may want to consider avoiding a cruise at the height of summer. The landscapes are still going to be breathtaking when the weather is a little cooler.
On top of that, if you want to witness the magical natural phenomenon that is Aurora Borealis, something you’ll have the chance to see if you’re cruising in Northern Europe particularly, you’ll want to wait until the weather is cooler during winter. The clear dark nights you’ll experience throughout December and January are when you’ll have the best chance to experience this incredible event. And, there’s also the Christmas markets to think about; you’ll only find those on Christmas cruises throughout December.
European cruises around the holidays, be those the summer holidays or Christmastime, are going to be busier and more expensive; but, this will also mean the destinations on your itinerary will be more lively, and it’s hard to beat the hustle and bustle of somewhere exciting when it’s sunny - or when there’s a festive spirit in the air. Ports of call in Europe are also among the best family cruise destinations out there, which is always worth keeping in mind if you're travelling with children. So, depending on what you want out of your cruise getaway, it may be worth taking the financial hit and cruising during a more popular period.
Best Time to Cruise in Asia
The largest continent in the world, Asia is home to some of the most populated counties on Earth, a vast variety of holiday destinations, and an impressive array of adventures for you to embark on. Interestingly, unlike Europe and the Mediterranean, the best time to cruise through Asia is winter; although, there are some specifics worth keeping in mind.
If you’re planning on visiting South Asia via cruise, travelling to countries like India and Sri Lanka, you’ll want to book a cruise sailing at some point from December to May. Not only is this going to help you avoid the torrential rains of the monsoon season in this region, but you’ll also avoid the increasingly hot and humid weather that comes with it.
Similarly, for cruises to Southeast Asian countries like Cambodia, Vietnam, and Thailand, you’ll be better off visiting from November to April; this is when the dry season affords these destinations with moderate temperatures and low humidity levels. For Japan, though, you may want to consider an itinerary sailing in late March, April, or May. This is typically the sakura season, when Japan’s iconic cherry blossom trees bloom, and the time of year when Japan is at its most beautiful.
With the winter months the most popular time to visit, and considered the peak of the Asian cruise season, you’ll find that cruise fares are more expensive and the cruise ships themselves are busier. Tourist hotspots and ports of call are also going to be busier around both local holidays and international holidays, such as the festive period around Christmas.
So, if you’re looking for more affordable Asia cruises, you may want to consider an itinerary in the off-season – which would be the summer months. You’ll just need to be prepared to deal with some unpredictable weather, which may dampen sightseeing experiences and interrupt itineraries, alongside increasingly hot and humid conditions. Although, when you think about what to do in Singapore, just as an example, there are some fantastic options that don't rely on the weather. A foodie's heaven, this is just one Asian destination worth visiting whenever you get the chance.
Best Time to Cruise in the Caribbean
With long stretches of stunning white-sand beaches, vibrant tropical jungles teeming with wildlife, and welcoming cultures where good food is guaranteed, the Caribbean is one of the most popular cruise destinations for a lot of reasons; and, with this part of the world enjoying warm weather throughout the year, there’s never really a bad time to embark on a cruise here!
However, some months are better than others, and it’s important to consider the time of year you’re embarking on your voyage when looking into Caribbean cruises.
For the best weather, you’ll want to cruise the Caribbean throughout December to April; although, you may have to pay a little more, and cruises during Christmas and Easter will be busier than most. However, this will mean you can make the absolute most of the shore excursions available on these itineraries, so it’s definitely worth spending a little more on.
If you’re looking for a cheaper cruise that’s a little quieter, then you may want to consider itineraries sailing to this part of the world from September to November. The weather will be a little more temperamental, and you may find some interruptions to your itinerary due to this, but this period after the school summer holidays and before Christmas will mean – generally speaking – the cruises to the Caribbean available aren’t as busy and a little cheaper.
For a month-by-month look at cruising in the Caribbean, and more on what to expect when you embark on an adventure to these incredible islands, check out our blog on the best time to cruise the Caribbean here. You'll also find more top tips for cruising the Caribbean right here; it's never a bad idea to be prepared, especially when it comes to packing for different climates and picking the best Caribbean islands to visit ahead of a cruise adventure.
Best Time to Cruise to the Norwegian Fjords
Among the most beautiful regions of the world, the Norwegian Fjords are a bucket list travel destination for many travellers – and for good reason. The rugged landscapes are breathtaking, the ports of call you’ll visit are always charming, and the cuisine is unlike anything else out there – with hearty meat dishes and seafood often a focus. However, your experience in Norway will vary dramatically depending on the time of year you visit, and you’ll need to think about what type of cruise experience you’re after before booking. An adventure to this part of the world during the summer months is just as exciting as one during winter, but the shore experiences on offer and sightseeing opportunities available will be quite different; though, there are good reasons to consider both options.
If you’re looking for vibrant scenery with blooming flowers, bright sunshine glistening off calm waters, and gentle hikes to some breathtaking vantage points, then the summer months are the best time to visit the Norwegian Fjords. The days are longer, the charming towns you’ll visit during your voyage will be buzzing, and you may even find yourself with the opportunity to take to the fjords with a kayak or paddleboard!
Norwegian Fjords cruises in the winter, though, boast an entirely different experience; it’s certainly something you will want to consider when booking your upcoming adventure to Norway. While the days will be shorter, and the skies a little more grey than bright blue, the shore excursions available are worth wearing a thicker coat for. You can find a few top tips for cruising the Norwegian Fjords here, if you're considering them as your next holiday destination.
From snowshoe hikes and husky-pulled sled rides to snowmobile adventures and the chance to witness Aurora Borealis, a Norwegian Fjords cruise during the winter comes with a variety of shore experiences you simply won’t get when travelling here during the summer months. The upside is, generally speaking, the summer months are more expensive and busier than the winter months – when it comes to cruising in Norway. However, you will see the cost of a Norwegian Fjords cruise spike, and the popularity of these itineraries increase, during December and into January.
So, if you’re looking to cut down on costs and you want a more laid-back cruise experience, you may want to consider an itinerary sailing during the transitional seasons of spring and autumn. While you might not enjoy the full experience of either season during these sailings, and the weather will be a tad unpredictable, the Norwegian Fjords are stunning year-round.
Best Time to Cruise in North America
North America is something of a year-round cruise destination; boasting stunning natural scenery and incredible cityscapes alive with interesting restaurants, buzzing bars, intriguing museums, and more, there’s a lot for travellers to enjoy here throughout the year. However, the best time to cruise in North America depends on what you want out of your cruise, and which part of North America you’re actually visiting during your getaway.
While North American cruises sailing during the summer are always going to be the most popular option among holidaymakers, you may want to consider a cruise in autumn if you’re planning to visit New England and cruise destinations in Canada; itineraries during September and October are ideal, with these cruises being a little quieter, the weather cooler, and the cruise fares themselves more affordable following the busy summer season. On top of all this, the foliage you’ll come across while admiring the dramatic landscapes of this region will be an idyllic golden brown.
Similarly, cruising the West Coast is best done during the shoulder months – during spring and autumn. At the height of summer, the destinations you visit during your voyage will be busiest, and the weather warmest; so, there are definitely some pros to embarking on an adventure from late May and June to July and August. However, outside of this peak, you’ll enjoy milder temperatures, more affordable cruise fares, and – generally speaking – a more laid-back cruise experience.
Unlike the East Coast and West Coast, though, those travelling to destinations in the southern states like Orlando and Miami will want to consider a cruise sailing during the winter months – much like you would a Caribbean cruise. Prices will be a little higher than they are during the shoulder months in spring and autumn, but the weather during the winter will be incredible and you won’t have to deal with the high humidity and risk of disruptive weather that comes with the summer season.
You’ll also find that the attractions and tourist hotspots here will be busier too, but that atmosphere of excitement will elevate your experience – particularly in places like Universal Studios Orlando and Walt Disney World Resort. If you want to know what you're in for, check out our blog: A Trip to Remember – Universal Studios & Utopia of the Seas
When it comes to Alaska, though, the best time of year to embark on an adventure to this incredible part of the world wholly depends on what you want from the cruise. Spring is a fantastic time of year if you want to avoid the crowds and see Alaska blooming ahead of the summer months, but the warmer weather of these summer months will mean more areas and attractions are accessible and available – not to mention the fact that this is the best time for whale-watching, too. Autumn, though, is generally cheaper, and you’ll have the best chance to marvel at Aurora Borealis (the Northern Lights) during winter.
So, there’s a lot to think about when it comes to adventures in Alaska. You can, though, find out even more about what to expect when you embark on a voyage to this destination in our blog on the best time to cruise in Alaska right here.
Best Time to Cruise in South America
Like most southern hemisphere cruise destinations, the best time to travel to South America is during the winter months: from December through to April. This is when the weather will be most agreeable, and when you’re more likely to enjoy unique cultural experiences while ashore – it can feel like there’s always something worth celebrating in South America during these months!
With these months being the South American summer, this period – much like the peak travel season for northern hemisphere holiday destinations – is when things will be busiest, and you will find fare prices spiking around the holidays. If you’re looking to soak up the sensational atmosphere of the destinations you’ll have the chance to visit, and immerse yourself in these colourful local cultures, then it’s worth spending a little extra and dealing with the busier South American cruises to visit when the sun is shining.
The days are also going to be quite a bit longer during the South American summer months; this will give you more sunshine to soak up, which is perfect for those evenings onboard when you’re not quite done enjoying the day’s weather, and mean opening times are longer – whether that’s an interesting archeological site, a vibrant national park, or even one of this region’s rich wineries. From December to April, you’ll have more time to enjoy everything each South American destination has to offer.
However, if you’re looking to sightsee in South American cities and visit breathtaking bucket list destinations like Machu Picchu and Iguazu Falls, you may want to consider booking a cruise sailing during the shoulder months – from September to November and from late April into May. This is just outside the peak tourism period, so these destinations will be less crowded, but before the colder weather of winter. In some southern destinations in South America, it can get below freezing between June and August. This is the driest season in South America, generally speaking, but you’ll need to be bundled into a coat a lot of the time.
Best Time to Cruise in the Middle East
The Middle East is a unique case when it comes to cruise travel. Despite being in the northern hemisphere, it doesn’t follow the same trends as other cruise destinations in this half of the world; if you want to make the most of your time there, you’re going to want to travel during winter: between December and March. Why? Well, aside from the fact that summer cruises to the Middle East are often busier and more expensive due to the holidays, the weather becomes increasingly warm through April and May, before being incredibly hot during the summer months.
So, if you’re looking to take advantage of the unique shore excursions and cultural experiences available on Middle East cruises, the cooler weather that comes with the winter months will make this a much more comfortable experience. Destinations in the northern parts of this region, ports of call in Turkey particularly, will be cooler, but countries like Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, and the United Arab Emirates enjoy temperatures of 15 to 20 degrees throughout winter – which is certainly far from cold weather if you’re coming from the UK.
You will have to contend with some rainfall during your time in the Middle East, should you travel during the more temperate winter months. Though, the trade-off is certainly worthwhile. Where the summer months rarely see a drop of rain, meaning you’ll always enjoy clear skies and sunny weather, the heat can make everything uncomfortable – if you’re not used to temperatures upwards of 40 degrees, anyway.
One thing worth keeping in mind when travelling to the Middle East is Ramadan, a month-long event that often takes place from late February to the end of March where Muslims worldwide observe fasting from dawn to sunset, engage in communal prayer, help their communities, and reflect on themselves and the world around them. In some countries, particularly Saudi Arabia, everyone is required to fast during the day – Muslim or non-Muslim. And, in other places where the majority are observing Ramadan, such as Turkey, Tunisia, and Morocco, it’s discouraged and frowned upon to break fast in public – something which extends beyond food to include drinking water, smoking, and other ‘bad habits’. Exceptions can be made if you’re unable to fast, but you may want to consider travelling to these destinations outside of Ramadan if you don’t want to worry about fasting during the daytime here.
Best Time to Cruise in Australasia
An increasingly popular southern hemisphere cruise destination, summers in Australasia stretch from December to February, which makes it the best time to visit if you’re looking for long days and warm sunshine. The Australia Day celebrations on January 26 aren’t to be missed if you’re somewhere like Sydney, Brisbane, or Melbourne at the right time. This is also a fantastic time to visit New Zealand and the Pacific Islands to the east; the landscapes are their most vibrant, the wildlife at its most active, and the juicy tropical fruits that elevate the local cuisines are in season. Provided you avoid the holidays around Christmas, where the cruises will be busier and the fares less affordable, there’s no reason why Australasia isn’t the perfect place to escape the gloom of winter at home during those colder months.
With that being said, there’s certainly a case to be made for Australasia cruises during the shoulder months either side of this southern hemisphere destination’s summer season – particularly from March to May. The temperatures will be a little cooler during these months, but Northern Australia’s rainy season will be coming to an end; aside from the obvious, that you’ll have less rain to deal with in this part of Australasia, the humidity will be drier in these months, something that will make spending your days exploring ashore and taking part in exciting shore excursions much more enjoyable.
If you’re interested in the wine of this region and visiting the vineyards found across Australia and New Zealand, the ‘fall’ season stretching from March to May is also an excellent time to visit the fantastic wineries found in Australasia. That, and taking advantage of the numerous scenic hiking routes found throughout this region will be even easier in the cooler weather.
For travellers limited to cruising during the summer holidays, something that will mean you’re travelling to Australasia during its winter, you can expect cooler weather throughout June and July, with snow-capped mountains making sightseeing in Australia still worthwhile. New Zealand’s winters, though, are colder – and not as far from what you might experience in the UK. New Zealand’s north island, in particular, will see much more rainfall during the winter months of June, July, and August; but, the snow-blanketed mountain ranges of both islands make for stunning sightseeing opportunities. So, it’s not all bad.
Best Time to Cruise to Antarctica
One of the most remote regions in the world, the best time to embark on an expedition to Antarctica – which are often included as part of a wider South American cruise itinerary – is throughout the southern hemisphere’s ‘summer’: from November to March. During these months, the weather will be warmer (by which we mean it will be regularly above zero degrees) and the days will be a lot longer; this will afford you more time to relish in the remarkable landscapes and enjoy any shore excursions you decide to take part in. The wildlife will also be much more active throughout this period, making sightseeing even more special.
If you’re hoping to see penguins in particular, January and February are the best time to visit Antarctica. This is when you’ll see adult penguins molting and the chicks learning to swim in shallow pools. For whale-watching, you’ll want to travel to Antarctica towards the end of this ‘summer’ season – in March, particularly. This is when sightings are best, but that doesn’t mean you won’t see them earlier in the year. Seabirds, though, are something you’ll be able to spot throughout.
With this warmer weather also comes retreating ice, meaning expedition cruises can actually venture further into Antarctica than they would be able to in the ‘winter’ months. Although, when it comes to taking advantage of the latest Antarctica cruise deals, you’re not actually going to find many – if any – itineraries including Antarctica beyond April and before December. This is when temperatures plummet and, by June, Antarctica can go weeks without sunlight.
Best Time to Cruise to the Galapagos Islands
One of the most unique travel destinations in the world, the enigmatic Galapagos Islands boast memorable travel experiences worthy of everyone’s bucket list; not only will you find rich cultural experiences to enjoy and a unique history to uncover when you visit, this volcanic archipelago is home to some of the world’s most fascinating wildlife – with bright pink flamingos and the blue-footed booby found alongside the Galapagos giant tortoise and colourful little vermillion flycatcher, just to name a handful of the incredible species you’ll find here.
While you will find expedition cruises sailing to the Galapagos Islands year-round, and there’s never a bad time to embark on an adventure to this remarkable remote destination, the best time of the year to cruise to the Galapagos Islands is during the dry season – which typically runs through the summer months between June and September – or the hot season – which is traditionally December to January.
For more details on why these months are ideal for cruising to this holiday hotspot, check out our blog on the best time for a Galapagos cruise right here.
Cruise Season Calendar
To recap, and give you a better sense of when each cruise season actually is, here’s a table of all the major cruise destinations and when their peak cruise season generally takes place. While you may want to avoid the peak season no matter what, it’s still worth keeping in mind when that is, as this is when the best weather will be – and when the most cruises will be setting sail to these destinations.
| Cruise Destination | Peak Cruise Season | Off-Peak Cruise Season |
| Alaska | May - August | September - April |
| Antarctica | November - March | April - October |
| Asia | November - May | June - October |
| Australasia | November - February | March - October |
| British Isles | May - September | October - April |
| Canary Islands | May - September | October - April |
| Caribbean | December - April | May - November |
| Europe | June - August | September - May |
| Galapagos Islands | December - February | March - November |
| Mediterranean | May - August | September - April |
| Middle East | December - February | March - November |
| North America | May - October | November - April |
| Norwegian Fjords | June - August | September - May |
| Pacific Islands | December - February | March - November |
| South America | December - February | March - November |
When to Book Your Cruise Early
For those of you looking at upcoming cruises wondering whether you should book straight away, or wait a little longer for a better deal, there are a few things to consider. If you’re looking at cruises on new cruise ships – particularly maiden voyages – you’re going to want to book your stateroom as soon as possible. Seasoned cruisers will be quick to snap up spaces on these historic voyages and you’ll need to be quick if you want to secure your spot.
Similarly, if you’re looking at family cruises for the school holidays, you’re better off booking as soon as possible to avoid any disappointment. Whether it’s a week during half term, a fortnight over the summer, or even one of the many Christmas cruises available, the school holidays are always the most popular time of year for cruises. So, spaces get booked up quickly, and often well in advance.
You may, though, find that cruise lines offer their best rates when itineraries first go on sale – or, have a launch offer when it comes to a new ship’s maiden voyage. It might be hard to tell whether the price you’re seeing is the best deal, but in these cases, it’s actually better to book first regardless of whether it’s a school holiday.
When to Wait When Booking Your Cruise
If you’re hoping to take advantage of some competitive last minute cruise deals and get a good price on an adventure somewhere exciting, you may want to wait a little before booking a cruise you have your eye on – or, book a sailing outside the peak cruise season for the destination you have in mind.
For those with more flexible schedules, unbothered by unpredictable weather and a more limited choice when it comes to staterooms, waiting can bag you a once-in-a-lifetime adventure for a fantastic price; as a departure date approaches, cruise lines often lower the cost of fares to fill any empty staterooms before setting sail. You’ll just need to prepare for a cruise experience that may be interrupted by adverse weather, staterooms that aren’t in ideal locations onboard (such as under a late-night entertainment venue or those where mechanical noises in the mornings might be an issue), and destinations to be less lively – if you’re sailing during the off-season.
That doesn’t mean this is a bad idea at all, though, as you’ll be saving money on your cruise fare and still enjoying an exciting adventure to some of the world’s most stunning holiday hotspots. Whether you’re the first to book a cabin on a cruise ship or the final customer before departure, cruise lines still deliver exceptional service, fantastic food, and exciting entertainment everyone can enjoy.
Frequently Asked Questions on When To Cruise
What months should you avoid cruising?
The answer to this question depends entirely on the destination you’re thinking about travelling to, as it can vary from place to place dramatically. Generally speaking, you’ll want to avoid the winter months in most locations; however, in Southeast Asia and the Caribbean, you’ll also need to keep the monsoon season and hurricane season in mind respectively.
You may also want to avoid the height of summer when travelling to Africa and the Middle East; you won’t need to worry about disruptive weather during these periods, but the warm weather can become uncomfortable and make enjoying any shore excursions you embark on difficult.
What is the cheapest month to go on a cruise?
Generally, cruises are cheapest in January and February; known as ‘wave season’ to those in the know, this is a period where cruise lines cut prices and introduce incredible deals to encourage people to cruise following the holidays. You’ll also find great offers in the build-up to the summer holidays, and during Black Friday before Christmas.
Prices can also depend on the destination, with cruises during off-peak months and when adverse weather conditions are more likely often cheaper; for example, a cruise to the Caribbean during September and October will quite-often be cheaper than one during April and May.
What time of year are the seas the roughest?
While dependent on the destination, the weather conditions at sea are usually the roughest during the winter months, wherever you are in the world. If you’re embarking on a transatlantic voyage, which is one type of cruise where you’ll have quite a few consecutive sea days to deal with, you’ll find the roughest waters throughout November and December into January and February. Modern cruise ships are well-equipped to deal with these, though, so you won’t need to worry too much about them.
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