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Between Black Friday and Cyber Monday deals, we tend to think that once December hits, we’re doomed to pay full price for everything. We’ve got some irresistible December cruise deals that’ll give you just the motivation you need to pull the trigger on your next cruise vacation. While the BVI has a unique event to celebrate Christmas in July, they still reserve much of their festive cheer for December, meaning you’ll find a few Christmas Markets and celebrations taking place. With no monsoons (unlike some other Southeast Asian countries at this time of year), Vietnam boasts some of Asia’s most consistently dry and warm vacation spots in December. Fans of reggae and Bob Marley in particular should plan a visit to both Trench Town & Culture Yard Museum, Marley’s former home-turned-cultural space, and the dedicated Bob Marley Museum.
Canary Islands & Morocco: A Blend of Natural Beauty and Cultural Heritage
Adding to the cheer, guests and the ship's crew can participate in caroling, and despite no chimney in sight, a special visitor from the North Pole is scheduled to make an appearance. Holiday highlights often include Christmas Eve caroling, an ugly Christmas sweater crafting competition, Christmas ornament and gingerbread cookie decorating classes, and holiday games and trivia. The 4,300-passenger vessel will be about 21% bigger than the current biggest ships in the Princess fleet.
December Cruises
8 Winter Cruises in Warm Places - The New York Times
8 Winter Cruises in Warm Places.
Posted: Wed, 13 Dec 2023 08:00:00 GMT [source]
December is also a good time to cruise the Antarctic as you have a decent chance of a calm voyage in an area famous for rough seas. The good weather in December means that animals are more active and entering their breeding season. You’re very likely to see seal pups on ice floes, while for most of December, penguins will be laying and incubating their eggs. The Caribbean is always a great place to visit on a cruise and December is no exception. You’ll find thought-provoking museums, sizzling street food, and serene temples wafting incense, all against a backdrop of futuristic skyscrapers.
What is the cheapest month to go on a cruise? Are cruises cheaper in the winter?
If you’re seeking thrills, join a snorkel tour among reef sharks, or try your hand at game fishing. If you’re looking for holiday gifts, stop by the Nassau Straw Market, which offers plenty of items made by local vendors such as straw hats, jewelry, and souvenirs. Enjoy the perfect weather by kayaking off Balmoral Island Beach, or bathing in the clear waters of Blue Lagoon Island. One of the best places to cruise in December is to The Bahamas, where the pristine white sand and turquoise water will melt away any thoughts of chilly weather back home. Kids will enjoy snorkeling around coral reefs, while adults can relax and read a book while swinging in a hammock. You can also visit historical sites, shop, and dine at some of the best restaurants in the world.
It really is heaven on earth if you want to feel the sand between your toes, the breeze in your hair and the silky water on your skin, all day long. The region is a top spot for the best cruises in February, with islands basking in warm temperatures under clear blue skies. These are just a few of the many Baltic destinations to explore on a December cruise. With their rich history, architectural wonders, and cozy winter atmosphere, these cities offer an enchanting experience. So, wrap up warm and embrace the magical allure of the Baltic region on a December cruise.
Mexican Riviera Cruises
When you book with one of our partners, please be sure to check their site for a full disclosure of all applicable fees as required by the U.S. We loved our experience aboard Riverside Mozart, the best cruise ship on the Danube River. The programming they provide to make this time of year extra cozy and special for their guests is impressive. You can also choose to take a very special journey and cruise into the New Year.
In Punta Del Este, surf at Playa Brava and enjoy a cocktail at one of the many bars in La Barra neighborhood. Don’t forget to take a photo at La Mano, a massive hand-shaped sculpture that emerges from the sand on the beach. Speaking of thrills, many of our Bahamas cruises call at CocoCay, our award-winning private Bahamian island. Here, you’ll find everything from hair-raising waterslides and ziplining to a blissful lagoon pool, stylish beach clubs, and even overwater cabanas in the style of the South Pacific. There are many great places to cruise in December, depending on your interests and budget.
Whether you’re looking for a warm, tropical destination or a chance to see the Northern Lights, there’s a cruise out there for you. Christmas cruises add awe-inspiring decor, live performances, and a slew of onboard activities, like an ugly sweater contest and themed holiday trivia. Whether you want to sip eggnog by the pool or attend an onboard Christmas-carol singalong, Norwegian delivers plenty of reasons to set sail this season. But you don’t need to tour countless islands to be charmed; many of the best experiences are right on the doorstep of the capital city, Nassau. Walk among salmon-pink flamingos at Ardastra Gardens, hop on a bike tour of the historic downtown area, or simply sink into the soft sands of Cable Beach. Known as the sailing capital of the Caribbean, the British Virgin Islands is an excellent warm vacation spot in December to get out on the water, especially as this month signals the start of peak sailing season.
December is the start of the dry season in the Bahamas, making it one of the best times to enjoy this 700-island-strong archipelago’s natural treasures. From the serene sands of Galleon Beach, where snorkelers might spot turtles, to the more developed Dickenson Bay, you’re never far from inviting waters. Likewise, fresh Caribbean seafood is abundant—add a sprinkle of Susie’s Hot Sauce and a sampling of local rum for an authentic Antiguan experience. Aruba is famed for its pristine, coral-white beaches, and lazy beach days are a staple of any visit to the island. Cruise Critic is not a booking agent and does not charge any service fees to users of our site.
THE 25 BEST December 2025 Cruises (with Prices) on Cruise Critic - Cruise Critic
THE 25 BEST December 2025 Cruises (with Prices) on Cruise Critic.
Posted: Tue, 24 Oct 2023 13:39:09 GMT [source]
Start with a stroll on the golden beaches, not forgetting to snap a photo of the iconic El Arco. Snorkel over coral reefs, swim with wild dolphins, admire the candy-colored Dutch architecture of the Southern Caribbean, and even discover the incredible Panama Canal. Embark on a luxurious warm-weather adventure this December with Celebrity Cruises. Experience a voyage from the Pacific Ocean to the Atlantic Ocean or vice versa through the historic Panama Canal. A number of Florida and California ports serve Princess Cruises, Norwegian Cruise Line, Holland America Line and Oceania Cruises vessels.
Swapping blizzards for trade winds, winter cruises can be the tonic to your seasonal downswing. Not unlike birds, cruise ships head south for the winter, chasing the sun, sand, and appeal of tropical paradise. Though with an increase in expedition travel, shifting routes are leveraging the winter months as prime time for glacial destinations, from the northern lights to Antarctica. If you’re going to travel to the ends of the earth, 2019 was the year ships stepped up to take you there in luxury and style.
You might just feel like cozying up by the TV with some hot cocoa during these cold winter months, but what if we told you that you could be reclining on a hammock in 80 degree sunshine with a paloma in hand? Whether it’s sailing the warm waters of the tropical Caribbean, or exploring the far-flung South Pacific with a voyage down under, we’re teeing up some pretty incredible getaways this winter. Beloved Disney characters dress in holiday attire for meet-and-greets, and Santa Claus makes appearances on most sailings. Cruises visiting Castaway Cay, Disney’s private island, offer even more festive fun, as the Bahamian paradise is decked out for the season with a Christmas tree and faux-snow flurries. A tropical paradise in the heart of the South Pacific, Tahiti beckons you with its breathtaking beauty, Polynesian charm, and a sense of tranquility. Tahiti's allure as a departure point for a winter cruise lies in its unmatched natural magnificence and the unique experiences it offers.
These are just a few of the many South American destinations to explore on a December cruise. From the vibrant rhythms of Rio de Janeiro to the ancient wonders of Machu Picchu, South America offers a wealth of experiences for every traveler. So, set sail and embark on an unforgettable adventure through this captivating continent. These are just a few of the many Southeast Asia destinations to explore on a December cruise.
Most offer similar onshore excursions and activities from diving and snorkeling to liquor tastings. It’s an ideal time for a cruise in this region with hurricane season over while idyllic temperatures and sunshine are common. Disney Cruise Line takes magic to an entirely new level during its holiday sailings. The line's Very Merrytime Cruises depart from ports in Florida, California, and Texas and head to destinations ranging from the Bahamas to western Mexico — all with a flurry of holiday festivities along the way. Merrytime ships are transformed with festive decor (including a 24-foot Christmas tree), and offer a range of seasonal activities and entertainment.
Some years there are as many nine cruise ships docked in Funchal on New Years Eve specifically there to watch the fireworks. I can’t think of a much better place to ring in the New Year than watching the fireworks at Funchal from my cruise ship balcony room. Saltwater lagoons, sun-kissed rooftops, and sandy beaches, we must be talking about Arrecife in Lanzarote. From designer boutiques to bargains galore, you’re not going to leave this location empty handed, we don’t there is better way to spend your port day. This sensational 12-day river cruise takes you into the heart of Western Europe, past cities large and small, and through truly breathtaking landscapes. Starting with two days in magical Paris, the cruise itself kicks off in ancient Trier, Germany before heading up the charming Rhine River.
