Thursday, April 18, 2024

What You Need to Know About Cruises in Bad Weather, According to an Expert

cruise weather

Rain is generally limited to the Southern Caribbean, including islands like Aruba. Ocean temperatures in the winter hover around a pleasant 79 degrees and average highs and lows in St. Kitts, for example, are 85 and 74 degrees, respectively. Water temperatures in the Caribbean can be cool in January and February, depending on how exposed your destination is to the chilly waters of the open Atlantic.

Alaska Cruise Destinations and Cruisetours

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If that happens before you set sail, you will be given a full refund. Peak season for European river cruises lasts from May through September. And if you're after the best of those European summer vibe, it's a hard time of year to top. Cafes are packed, streets bustle with life and days are long and warm. Baltic and Northern European cruises have a shorter season, running from April to October. Keep in mind that April and October can still be quite chilly in Scandinavian and Baltic Sea ports.

Caribbean Temperatures

If you're seeking a slightly cheaper river cruise in Europe, spring can mean flowers in glorious bloom and milder temperatures. Tulip-viewing itineraries in the Netherlands and Belgium are especially popular. Keep in mind that heavy rains and early-spring flooding can make the rivers swell and the locks impassable. Check out Hawaii cruises in May, when the weather is relatively dry as well. That's why we've broken down when you should cruise everywhere from the Caribbean and Mexico to New England and Alaska. We have the answers so your first time will be nothing but smooth sailing.

Caribbean Weather in January

Lines like Viking and Hurtigruten offer Northern Lights sailings to the region's northern reaches from January through March. If you're after that sweet spot of cheaper fares and perfect weather, the best time to cruise to Mexico is from November through January. Skies during this period are mostly clear, temperatures are warm and crowds are smaller (with the exception of Christmas and New Years).

cruise weather

Earlier in the month brings a lull to the islands as hurricane season has ended, though by the end of the month expect higher prices and more crowds. While temperatures remains steady in September, October and November (70s and 80s), sunny days might be tempered by winds and rains during stormy conditions. The late spring and early summer months are great for enjoying the Caribbean at its relative quietest. Hot temperatures make long days near the sea enticing, though you are more likely to encounter a day or two of rain in some parts of the Caribbean in May or June. Because cruise ships can move around bad weather, full cancellations are rare.

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If there is a significant weather threat, the cruise line will also keep you up to date, but it never hurts to stay one step ahead. And finally, investing in travel insurance can always provide that extra peace of mind, especially if you're sailing during hurricane season or any other potentially problematic season. While there are some regions, like the Antarctic, that are susceptible to weather disruptions year-round, most areas of the world contend with bad weather on a seasonal basis.

Best Time to Cruise the Caribbean: December - Mid-April

Here’s everything to know about typical weather forecasts on a Caribbean cruise. Because fall weather in the Caribbean is unpredictable, you'll find some of the best cruise deals of the year. As the end of November transitions to the holidays, though, Caribbean cruise prices begin to increase again.

Caribbean Weather in April

That's true if you're after bright and warm Riviera Maya weather or optimal conditions in the Mexican Riviera on the Pacific Coast as well. High season is when you'll find the most cruise options, highest prices, most crowded ships and best weather. The shoulder season coincides with moderate demand and relatively nice weather, and fares will be lower. Low season is the cheapest season -- and least busy -- but may mean sacrifices in what you can see and possible cancellations due to weather. While cruise lines are usually prepared to sail away from storms, it's always a good idea to supplement low fares with travel insurance for incidentals like flight changes. July and August can be the most expensive months to cruise the Caribbean, but there are plenty of exceptions.

Best Eastern Caribbean Ports

If you're after peak wildlife viewing in Alaska, though, high season is the best time to cruise the state. Bears, whales, salmon and caribou are far more abundant June through August than at other times of year. There are also numerous festivals in the port towns during the summer.

Having your travel plans affected by natural disasters and severe weather is disappointing, but not nearly as devastating as what the locals are going through. It's important to keep this in perspective and understand that the priority should always be to take all necessary measures to ensure the safety of everyone on the ship -- and everyone on land, too. In this case the ‘shoulder’ months of May and September offer the lowest prices. As well, if you’re headed to the Caribbean, March can be warm — but not too warm compared to the heat of the summer months. July is an ideal month to visit for salmon fishing, cultural festivals, bear viewing, and small-town exploring. With the popularity of July cruising, cruise prices are at their highest.

Once the calendar is closer to the holidays, winter break increases the demand and prices can spike to reflect that. January and February are two of the best months to cruise the Caribbean for those who need a break from gray, wet winter weather. You'll also find the some of the most diverse cruise lengths and itineraries throughout the region in January and February. However, if we had our pick, we would suggest either April or October if you need to fly into a cruise port. The generally good weather and low prices combine to make it a cheap and easy time to sail.

Summer weather forecasts on a Caribbean cruise bring a variety of flavors to each region. While the Southern Caribbean maintains its sunny disposition, other destinations welcome refreshing ocean breezes. Occasional light showers are the perfect excuse to head inside and tour the Graycliff Chocolatier, where you can create your own decadent masterpiece with local ingredients like mango and lime. Or sip on an aromatic flight of wines at Bahama Barrels while hearing stories from locals.

Whether you want to have a summer vacation or a winter getaway, the weather somewhere in the Caribbean is always warm and welcoming. The weather conditions can change several times throughout the day, which is why it’s best to pack plenty of layers and a lightweight raincoat. Weather-wise, mid-December through mid-March is the best time for a Caribbean cruise. These are the driest months, with sunny skies, little rainfall, and pleasantly moderate temperatures. Although the dry season is a popular time to cruise, the rainy season has some appeal for budget-minded travelers because prices are usually lower. Weather Underground This is the best site for weather information.

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