The Best Time of Year to Cruise Each Region

Choosing the right time to cruise can dramatically affect your experience—from weather conditions and pricing to crowds and port availability. Some destinations shine in the shoulder seasons, while others are best enjoyed in peak months. Whether you’re after lower fares, fewer tourists, or ideal weather, planning your voyage by season is essential.

Here’s a region-by-region guide to help you identify the best time of year to cruise based on your destination.

Caribbean: December to April

The Caribbean remains one of the most popular cruise regions, with warm temperatures year-round. However, the best time to cruise the Caribbean is between December and April, when the weather is driest and the threat of hurricanes is low.

• Pros: Ideal weather, low humidity, calmer seas

• Cons: Higher prices during holiday periods (especially December and spring break)

To avoid crowds while still enjoying great conditions, consider cruising in early December or late April.

Alaska: May to September

Alaska cruises are seasonal, running from late spring through early fall. The peak cruising window is June through August, when wildlife viewing and daylight hours are at their best.

• May: Fewer crowds, lower prices, snow-capped scenery

• June–August: Warmest weather and most activity options

• September: Fall colors and end-of-season sales

If you want to avoid peak prices, May and September are excellent for shoulder-season savings. Book early for balcony rooms, as they offer prime glacier and wildlife views.

Mediterranean: April to June & September to October

The Mediterranean offers year-round cruise options, but spring and fall are the sweet spots. Avoid the sweltering summer months and cruise during April to June or September to October for cooler temperatures and fewer tourists.

• Pros: Comfortable temperatures, thinner crowds, cultural festivals

• Cons: Cooler water temperatures in early spring and late fall

Check for region-specific events, such as Holy Week in Spain or Italy’s grape harvest in October, to enhance your cultural experience.

Northern Europe and the Baltics: June to August

For cruises to Scandinavia, Iceland, or Russia, summer is ideal, with long daylight hours and mild weather. Ports like Stockholm, St. Petersburg, and Copenhagen are most accessible during this time.

• Pros: Midnight sun in far northern ports, pleasant temperatures

• Cons: Higher cruise prices and crowded attractions

Early June or late August can be more affordable while still offering excellent conditions. Use sites like Visit Norway for seasonal travel advice.

Bermuda: April to October

The Bermuda cruise season aligns with warmer weather in the Atlantic, running from April to October. Cruises to Bermuda often depart from East Coast ports like New York or Baltimore.

• Pros: Pink sand beaches, good weather for snorkeling and golf

• Cons: Higher humidity and storm potential from August to October

May and June offer a perfect balance of good weather and lower crowds. Check port guides on Bermuda Tourism for seasonal recommendations.

Transatlantic and repositioning cruises: Spring and Fall

Looking for a deal? Repositioning cruises—when ships move from one region to another—are best booked during April–May or September–November.

• Pros: Lower fares, unique itineraries, fewer kids onboard

• Cons: Limited port calls and more sea days

These cruises often span longer durations and offer deep discounts. Monitor deals through Vacations To Go or Cruisewatch.

Pro tip: save on seasonal cruises with gift cards and cashback

If you’re booking during a peak month, you can offset the higher fare by using rewards platforms. For example, purchase a Carnival Cruise Lines gift card or Royal Caribbean gift card through Fluz and earn cashback on your booking. 

Set sail at the perfect time

Matching your cruise timing to the destination ensures smoother sailing, better weather, and a more memorable trip. Whether you’re chasing the northern lights or sunbathing on tropical shores, timing your cruise right makes all the difference.