Best Time to Go on a Cruise to the Caribbean

Cruises are a great way to explore multiple destinations while enjoying all-inclusive dining and a wide range of entertainment while you sail. Cruise ships offer plenty of fun for everyone, whether you want a couples-only romantic getaway or are cruising with your extended family. With stellar weather all year long, deciding the best time to go on a cruise to the Caribbean can be tough. Below, I answer some of the most common questions about choosing a time to book a cruise. 

What is the Best Month for a Caribbean Cruise?

January is one of the best times to go on a cruise. Low humidity, comfortable temperatures, breezy nights, and decreased rain chances are found throughout the Caribbean from November through April. It's also an excellent month for cruising if you want to avoid crowds. Since many people have just returned from family vacations during holiday breaks, they are less likely to take time off in January.

​Plus, you'll get a welcome escape from the freezing temperatures, enjoying balmy 80-degree weather and mild ocean breezes while your friends and family shovel their driveways back home. 

What Months Should You Avoid Cruising?

It is best to avoid cruising during peak hurricane season. Although hurricane season runs from June 1st through November 30th every year, the peak chance for tropical storm activity is in August and September. Cruising is not impossible during this time, however. Cruise lines update itineraries to avoid storms whenever possible. Also, your route may be modified if you're already on a cruise and a storm develops. If you want the best chance to cruise during these months without fear of a hurricane impacting your trip, opt for a southern Caribbean cruise to islands like Aruba or Curaçao. These islands lie under the hurricane belt and are rarely affected by storms. 

When is the Most Popular Time to Go on a Caribbean Cruise?

Peak cruising season is typically November through April. Many people choose this as the best time to go on a cruise to the Caribbean. It's easy to see why: cruising during this time offers cruisers a welcome relief from freezing temperatures and snow. These months also encompass popular school vacation times like Thanksgiving, winter, and spring breaks. 

What are the Cheapest Months to Go on a Cruise? ​

The best time to get great deals on cruising is during the "shoulder season," the months before and after peak season. Since peak season is typically November through April, the shoulder season is September, October, and May. September and October offer great discounts because it is peak hurricane season and a time when most families focus on getting their children into the back-to-school rhythm. May is another heavily-discounted month because it is sandwiched between the spring break season and summer. Some cruise lines offer incentives like onboard credits when you book cruises in May, especially for cruises longer than seven days.

Book Your Caribbean Cruise with Just Add Magic Travel®

Just Add Magic Travel provides concierge-level and stress-free vacation planning for destinations around the world, including top-rated cruise lines like Disney, Royal Caribbean, and Virgin Voyages. Get a free quote for your trip to get started. Have questions? I'm happy to help! Contact me here.