Are you ready to book your cruise but wondering what’s the best time to go? Is there a time when cruises are the cheapest? What’s the peak time for Alaskan cruises? There are so many factors that play a role in the best time to experience a cruise throughout the year. Whether you want to sail to the Bahamas or Alaska, there is a cruise just for you.
Best Month to Cruise
The best months for a cruise can vary depending on location, where you’d like to visit (we’ll dig into this later), and what you’re looking for in a cruise. If you’re looking for the best deal on a cruise, look at times when schools are in session and during hurricane season (June 1 – November 30). October is usually a great month to snag a deal and some cruise lines, like Disney Cruise Line, even offer special entertainment for Halloween! Another added bonus of cruising during the fall is lower crowd levels.
If you’re worried about rough seas, then avoid hurricane season and look to the late winter/early spring months location, where you’d like to visit, and what you’re looking for in a cruise.
When to Book a Caribbean Cruise
The number one choice amongst cruisers has been Caribbean. These cruises are usually shorter and depending on which cruise line you sail with, you may be able to experience their private island.
If you are looking for a cruise that celebrates the change in seasons, Disney Cruise Line has various options. One of the most popular is the “Halloween on the High Seas” and “Very MerryTime Cruises.” Disney Cruise Line is well-equipped for families and Disney fans. Disney Cruise Line does a phenomenal job of having activities for everyone in the family, from the teens club to the nursery to the adult-only areas.
Royal Caribbean does a wonderful job of having the daily itinerary on the Royal App. You have the ability to plan your night at the edge of your fingertips, and the best part is that the app will remind you as your event gets closer.
When to Plan an Alaskan Cruise
Pack your sweater and binoculars! If you are planning to go on an Alaskan cruise, I would highly recommend going during the months of May through September. The weather is not too chilly or warm. The salmon swim upriver, the whales are out in the water and the tourist attractions are open. Don’t forget to check out the Red Dog Saloon if you sail to Juneau, Alaska. Alaskan cruises arrive in Southeast Alaska in early Spring and leave in early fall.
Looking for the best cruise lines to sail through Alaska with? I recommend Disney Cruise Line and Royal Caribbean due to their itineraries, amenities, and overall service provided.
When to Cruise in Europe
One of the best ways to experience Europe without the hassle of checking in and out of hotels at each stop along the way is cruising! There are lots of cruise lines that sail in Europe including Disney Cruise Line, Viking, NCL, Royal Caribbean, and Carnival. You can visit a myriad of locations including England, Ireland, Scotland, France, Italy, Spain, Norway, and Greece, and never have to worry about lugging your suitcase along with you.
While tourists flock to Europe in the Summer, the best time to cruise in Europe is April – Mid-June and September – October. Crowd levels will be much lower and the temperatures will be more pleasant during these months.
Author: Alyssa Gomez | Travel Advisor