It's one of the most common cruising questions: When is the best time to cruise Alaska, Australia, the Caribbean, Canada/New England, Hawaii, Europe or the South Pacific?
On This Page
- Alaska: June - August
- Asia: November - March
- Australia: Late November - March
- Bermuda: June - August
- Canada/New England: September and October
- Caribbean: December Through Mid-April
- Europe: April - June, September - October
- Europe Rivers: May - September
- Hawaii: Late December - April
- Mexican Riviera: February Through Mid-April
- South America: November - March
- Tahiti/South Pacific: May - October
Alaska: June - August
Asia: November - March
Because the summer months of June and July (low season) bring the most rain and oppressive heat and humidity in Asia, the best time to cruise in terms of weather is November through March (high season). However, that's also when you'll find the highest prices and the most crowds at major attractions in the ports on Asia cruise itineraries. You'll find slightly less favorable weather -- but also fewer people and less expensive fares -- in shoulder season.Australia: Late November - March
Australia's high season is late November to March. Winter in North America is summer in Australia, so expect near-perfect conditions in major ports of call like Sydney, Adelaide and Perth on the western side and a subtropical climate in the northeast Queensland region. It's also typhoon season, however, which may affect some ports of call (such as Brisbane and Cairns) and lead to some rough sailing waters. Aussies often vacation between late December and late January, so expect big crowds and jammed ports during that time.While Australia's climate varies widely, winter temperatures are rarely extreme; crowds are fewer, and there are bargains to be had, especially on larger ships and Great Barrier Reef cruises that are available year-round. The downside: Expedition cruises and sailings to Tasmania are often limited during the rainier months of June, July and AugustBermuda: June - August
Canada/New England: September and October
Canada and New England sailings depart from May through October. You've got a better chance for warm weather if you travel from late June through early September. However, if you prefer more crisp weather (temperatures in the 50s) or you're interested in fall foliage viewing, you'll need to go from late September to mid-October. May and late-October sailings will offer the lowest rates, but don't expect to be using the onboard swimming pool much. Meanwhile, the summer months are ideal for exploring some of Canada's most intriguing cities in milder temperatures (usually in the 70s).Caribbean: December Through Mid-April
Europe: April - June, September - October
Europe is so big that you can't lump all its cruises together. The Western Mediterranean cruise season runs from April through November, with a few European lines staying the course through the winter. The warmer Eastern Mediterranean and Greek islands, as well as the Canary Islands, see cruise ships between April and December, with a sprinkling of winter cruises from select lines.Northern Europe and Baltic cruises have a shorter season, running from April to October, with Viking and Hurtigruten offering Northern Lights sailing January through March. Most tourists come to Europe in the summer, but the late spring and early fall have more pleasant temperatures and not as many crowds. You'll find the lowest cruise prices at the beginning and end of each season; prices rise dramatically for the summer months.You might find restaurants and other establishments closed in August, which is when much of Europe goes on holiday. September is a popular time to cruise the Western Mediterranean because you can avoid the school kids and still enjoy warm temperatures. Note that March and November can be rainy.Europe Rivers: May - September
Europe's main river cruise season runs April through October, but peak sailings are May through September. Spring can mean flowers in glorious bloom. (Favorites are the spring Tulip Time cruises through the Netherlands and Belgium.) However, keep in mind that heavy rains and early-spring flooding can make the rivers swell and the locks impassable. Conversely, summer temperatures can cause the rivers to dry up, making it impossible for boats to move. If these weather events happen, you'll be taken to the sights by motor coach.River cruise itineraries are not weather dependent, so an offseason sailing means you get to enjoy the castles, cathedrals and quaint shops without the summer crowds. Many river lines also offer Christmas market cruises in November and December to Germany, Austria and Eastern Europe.Hawaii: Late December - April
Mexican Riviera: February Through Mid-April
You can cruise to Mexico year-round, either as part of a Western Caribbean itinerary or as a dedicated Mexico voyage. The best time to visit Mexico is during its dry season, November through May. However, it's a popular destination even during the rainier summer months. You'll find the best deals in the fall, between the two high seasons and during hurricane season.In early spring, the weather is dry, with temperatures in the 70s and 80s, making it a popular escape for Northerners, and February and March are prime whale-watching months. On the negative side, college-age youths often cram into port destinations like Ensenada and Puerto Vallarta at this time, creating a wild and boisterous atmosphere. During off-peak months, there are fewer crowds and a more adult atmosphere, but the weather can also be unpredictable, with temperatures dropping as low as the 40s.South America: November - March
Tahiti/South Pacific: May - October
The South Pacific's high season (May through October) actually occurs during the winter months. At this time, the weather is more favorable, as it rains less frequently and there's a reduced possibility of tropical cyclones (though the strongest trade winds usually kick up at this time, too). The region's dry season dovetails nicely with wedding season and school summer holidays, making cruises popular with honeymooners and European and American families on extended vacations.The South Pacific's summer (November through April) is the wettest time of year, when rain, temperatures and humidity increase. However, prices are significantly lower, and water temperatures are still perfect for swimming. March and April tend to get less rain than earlier in the summer season. The South Pacific is a popular cruise destination for Australian families. Expect higher prices and plenty of kids onboard if you cruise this region during Australian school holidays.Updated January 08, 2020
How was this article?