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It’s a time when people planning to visit need to be prepared for possible weather-related disruptions. The peak season also avoids the hurricane season, which runs from June to November, ensuring smoother sailing and safer travel conditions. However, it’s also when prices are highest and crowds can be larger due to increased demand. Despite this, the showers are usually short-lived and often occur in the afternoon, making it still possible to enjoy most of the day outdoors. This period also coincides with the hurricane season, with the highest risk of hurricanes from August to October. The weather isn't all bad in the fall and Caribbean cruises prices are low during these months.
January/February
June, July and August temperatures average near 90 degrees throughout the region. While there's a possibility of tropical storms or hurricanes, the Atlantic hurricane season doesn't peak until late August through October. The most popular times to cruise, such as spring break and summer break from schools, usually have higher cruise prices and more crowded cruise ports. While September through November marks hurricane season, Norwegian cruise ships are prepared to sail away from storms.
Should I cruise in the Caribbean during hurricane season?
Situated in the Atlantic hurricane belt, the Bahamas has more frequent hurricanes and tropical storms. Additionally, the Southern Caribbean is known for having less rain compared to the rest of the Caribbean. Aruba, for example, receives about 18 inches of rain per year, while Curaçao averages slightly higher, with about 22 inches annually. In contrast, other Caribbean islands like Jamaica and Puerto Rico experience a much wetter climate, with average annual rainfall reaching up to 78 inches.
What times of the year should I avoid?
They include Jamaica, Grand Cayman, Cozumel, Roatan, Costa Maya and Belize. But some months are better than others, especially late winter, spring and early summer when temperatures are warm and the risk of rain is low. July and August can be the most expensive months to cruise the Caribbean, but there are plenty of exceptions. Because more and more ships sail the region every year, prices can be competitive for families, couples and friends planning their summer getaway. Temperatures in The Caribbean during the fall usually stay within the mid-70s to 80s range. Although the rainy season occurs in The Caribbean during the fall, the rain often lasts a short time.
The ships are more crowded, and the festive rush means that ports are busier than usual, detracting from the relaxed atmosphere many seek. During this period, the Atlantic hurricane season makes it less desirable for most travelers, leading cruise lines to offer significant discounts. If you’re looking for a budget-friendly cruise and are prepared for bad weather and itinerary changes, the off-peak season can be a great time to cruise. The best time to cruise the Caribbean is during the dry season, which lasts from December to May.
Best weather in the Southern Caribbean
You'll have options like splash zones for the little ones, monster slides for the adventurers and kids clubs for all ages. Tickets for cruises that set sail between January and March are usually among the most affordable. While it is possible to enjoy a pleasant cruising experience in the Caribbean throughout the year, it is generally understood that cruising during a summer month is the riskiest. Even though modern cruise ships are all designed for stability and passenger comfort, it is always more pleasant to be a passenger when traveling through calm seas. As you can tell from our breakdown of the wet and dry seasons, conditions tend to be at their most pleasant and calm right before the start of the wet season and shortly after it has concluded. During the back end of the dry season, meaning January until the end of April, average temperatures rise by a few degrees, but the skies usually remain clear.
Some islands may experience cooler temperatures but it is rarely ever below 60˚F (15˚C). These balmy conditions offer excellent swimming and snorkeling as well as warm evenings perfect for exploring local cuisine or simply relaxing after a long day at sea. Another factor to consider during this time is that most schools are in session so there will be fewer children onboard resulting in an overall quieter environment.
The Best Time to Cruise the Caribbean
Besides the tropical scenery, the Caribbean also boasts an alluring culture. If cruising during the holidays, join in the celebration of Jamaica’s Junkanoo – a Caribbean Christmas tradition. From vibrant costumes to rhythmic dancers, this parade of artists trots through the crowd-lined streets, appearing as one kaleidoscope of color.
The worst months to cruise the Caribbean - Royal Caribbean Blog
The worst months to cruise the Caribbean.
Posted: Tue, 20 Feb 2024 08:00:00 GMT [source]
If you prefer childless cruising during the holidays, you can choose an adults-only cruise line like Viking. As a result, both months are the least popular times of the year to vacation in the Caribbean. June and November are the least risky months during the hurricane season because they usually have the fewest tropical storms and hurricanes. Although cruises around the holidays tend to be more expensive, they provide excellent opportunities to enjoy holiday festivities away from home. Instead of spending your winter break shoveling snow, why not enjoy a week or two at sea sipping margaritas poolside? If you do plan to cruise over the holiday break in December, make sure that you book your cruise early.
June is the best time to cruise the Caribbean in the summer because it has a lower risk of rain than July or August. The months of June through August are a great time to plan a family cruise to The Caribbean. Many families take advantage of these months when school is out to enjoy summer break and see the world.
If I were to narrow it down even further, I'd say the best time to cruise to the Caribbean is early December. It's a fun way to create a break between Thanksgiving and the December holidays. Most experienced Caribbean cruisers will tell you to avoid the middle of the wet season.
If sunny weather is your top priority and you don’t mind dealing with larger crowds, the dry period from December to April is ideal. This time offers the best weather conditions, though it also comes with higher prices due to its popularity. The off-peak season, from May to November, might be appealing for those looking to avoid crowds and find lower prices. During this time, you’ll find lower prices on cruises and accommodations, making it more budget-friendly.
Plus, escaping the last of winter's wrath at home can be just what the doctor ordered to save your sanity. While most of the season offers moderate fares, if your cruise dates are limited to holiday breaks, be prepared for prices close to double what you'd pay during the few weeks before that. The weather at home can be unpredictable in the winter, possibly affecting your departure travel plans and preventing you from reaching your Caribbean cruise. Plus, winter storms in the U.S. can increase wave action in the Atlantic and in the Gulf of Mexico. The farther north your departure port, the more likely you are to experience a rough ride until your ship sails south into calmer water.
When it is 5 degrees at home, spending the day in the Caribbean can be a really great idea. You'll also need to plan for mosquitos in port and for serious sun protection. Most of the Caribbean averages a UV index of 7 (considered a high risk) during the summer months, holding at a high or extremely high level for long stretches of the day.
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