A cruise is the hottest deal for a winter vacation, regardless of your preference for festive fun or winter sun.
As a bonus, you are likely to encounter fewer people, shorter wait times, plenty of room at the buffet, attentive waiters, and substantial off-season savings and exclusive deals while sailing in the winter.
Choose from our selection of the top winter cruise destinations to take a holiday cruise to a sun-drenched destination as the weather cools off.
Caribbean
The Caribbean is a cruiser's ideal vacation in any season. The key is knowing which area to cruise to and when to get full enjoyment out of every moment of your cruise vacation. Cruising to the warm, sunny Caribbean in the winter, when the weather up north might be gloomy, dismal, and snowy, is an excellent way to combat the winter blues. You'll have perfect tropical weather from January to March, with low humidity and temperatures in the mid- to low-80s. The Caribbean dry season begins in January as well, significantly reducing the likelihood of rain during your cruise holiday.
Kimberely Coast, Australia
The Kimberley area of Australia's northwest corner is about the size of Germany, with a population of 40,000 people, half of whom are Aboriginal. Because of its isolation, it is one of the few remaining wilderness frontiers in the world, and adventure-seeking cruisers are only now learning about it. This desert is home to several isolated islands, towering rock faces, secluded gorges, magnificent waterfalls (that reach heights of up to 328 feet), and wandering saltwater crocodiles. It is located where the Indian Ocean and Timor Sea meet.
Southeast Asia
Most individuals seek bliss in the tropics since cold winters rule North America and Northern Europe. Because of this, a lot of cruise ships go over the Indian Ocean to deliver passengers to South Asian nations like Vietnam, Cambodia, and Malaysia. You may explore historic caverns and temples from the 12th century, unwind on beaches, and partake in water sports while visiting these nations. Compared to the colder temperatures in the north, the temperature here is really comfortable.
Galapagos Islands
Cruises are the most convenient and immersing method to take in the natural beauty of this Pacific Ocean archipelago of volcanic islands that cross the equator. December through March are considered the islands' peak season, with average temperatures hovering around the upper 70s and low 80s with indigenous species beginning their breeding and nesting seasons.
Canary Islands
The Canary Islands are one of the most well-liked winter sun cruise destinations since you can sail there straight from the United Kingdom. An island-hopping cruise throughout the Canaries, with its year-round sunlight, sandy beaches, volcanic scenery, and plenty of water parks and activities, will make you want to ditch the ship and sail off into the sunset. There are plenty of interesting places to discover onshore, ranging from the tranquil settlements of La Gomera to the stunning coastlines of Fuerteventura and Tenerife.
The Rhine River
With more castles than any other river, the Rhine River offers a breathtaking display of charming wine towns, priceless cultural artifacts, and constantly shifting landscapes. Although it is advised to cruise the whole length of the Rhine from between its headwaters in Switzerland all the way to Amsterdam, almost all Rhine River cruises weave their way through France and the German heartland. With almost 700 years of history, the Rhine River is transformed into a blank canvas for the captivating Christmas Markets. Wander through charming marketplaces and take in the region's cultural celebrations—a really remarkable experience that embodies the spirit of the holidays.
Belize
Belize is among the top destinations for cruises in December and the winter months because of its long, bright days and warm evenings. With its vibrant coral gardens for snorkeling, rivers for tubing, and jungles for mountain biking and zip line, this place is perfect for thrill-seekers. A visit to historical Mayan sites would be a must on any cruise to Belize. Take a look at the Mayan Ruins at Xunantunich, which are only two miles from the border with Guatemala. El Castillo, a 40-meter-tall temple, unites palaces and plazas against a backdrop of expansive vistas. When you return to the dock, Belize City provides a colonial-style cultural fix along with a thriving tourism village for shopping.
Antarctica
Antarctica, the ultimate destination for intrepid tourists worldwide, is now more accessible than ever because to an increase in adventure cruising that has opened up new routes south of the continent. The Antarctic Peninsula, where the majority of cruise ships visit, has the warmest temperatures from December to February, with average highs in the 30s. The weather is more than made up for with nearly 24 hours of daylight, limitless hours of sightseeing, and occasional excursions off the ship on guided Zodiac boats and kayaks.
Aruba, Bonaire, and Curacao
The ABC islands are the three westernmost Leeward Antilles islands in the Caribbean Sea, Aruba, Bonaire, and Curacao. Even though they are so near to one another, every island has its own distinct people, history, and geography. With year-round mild temperatures, all three islands enjoy a tropical environment. Since the ABC-islands are ideally situated outside of the storm zone, you may visit them all year round.
French Polynesia
French Polynesia, one of the most picturesque and famous regions in the South Pacific, is another part of the world that's ideal for a warm-weather winter trip. Although winter might be a little wet at times, it is generally lovely and mild. French Polynesia is bound to captivate and astound you, regardless of the activities you decide to partake in. French Polynesia is made up of more than 100 islands, so there's always something new to discover.