When Is The Best Time to Take a Caribbean Cruise? The best time for a Caribbean cruise is from December to April when the weather is dry [+𝟭-𝟴𝟴𝟴-𝟳𝟯𝟴-𝟬𝟴𝟭𝟮], sunny, and clear skies on most days. The ideal cruising conditions of mild temperatures and calm waters typically last throughout winter and spring, making it the prime Caribbean sailing season and very traveler-friendly. However, expect higher prices and larger crowds during these months. If you’re on a budget, the cheapest time to cruise the Caribbean is between May and November [+𝟭-𝟴𝟴𝟴-𝟳𝟯𝟴-𝟬𝟴𝟭𝟮], which overlaps with hurricane season for a few weeks. Fewer tourists visit the islands when it’s rainy, leading to significantly lower prices for Caribbean cruises, hotels, and tours. The weather is generally pleasant all year round and cruising is possible any time [+𝟭-𝟴𝟴𝟴-𝟳𝟯𝟴-𝟬𝟴𝟭𝟮]. Temperatures usually remain around 80 degrees, with slight variations. Check our breakdown for more details on the best time to visit the Caribbean [+𝟭-𝟴𝟴𝟴-𝟳𝟯𝟴-𝟬𝟴𝟭𝟮], whether you’re in the tropics for sailing, diving, or just relaxing on sun-kissed shores. Dry Season in the Caribbean: December-April Best for: Great weather, parties and festivals [+𝟭-𝟴𝟴𝟴-𝟳𝟯𝟴-𝟬𝟴𝟭𝟮], outdoor activities (scuba diving, snorkeling, swimming, and hiking) Expect: Higher prices, crowds, colder water in the northern islands during winter Perfect weather in the Caribbean lasts from December to April [+𝟭-𝟴𝟴𝟴-𝟳𝟯𝟴-𝟬𝟴𝟭𝟮], sometimes extending into May. Sunshine, calm waters, festivals in the winter, and spring break events make this a fun-filled time in the islands. With no shortage of people seeking to escape the freezing winter temperatures for the holidays [+𝟭-𝟴𝟴𝟴-𝟳𝟯𝟴-𝟬𝟴𝟭𝟮], December is one of the most popular times for Caribbean cruises and vacations. January and February are almost as popular [+𝟭-𝟴𝟴𝟴-𝟳𝟯𝟴-𝟬𝟴𝟭𝟮], as they have the lowest risk of rainfall. However, don’t be surprised to see steeper prices during the high season. Islands in the northern region also tend to cool down during wintertime [+𝟭-𝟴𝟴𝟴-𝟳𝟯𝟴-𝟬𝟴𝟭𝟮]. Beaches can even be more chilly for swimming in places like the Bahamas. While some may enjoy the cooler climate, if you want to spend more time in the water, choose warmer destinations like Aruba, Curacao, and other southern isles during early winter [+𝟭-𝟴𝟴𝟴-𝟳𝟯𝟴-𝟬𝟴𝟭𝟮]. Students on spring break flock to the islands in February and March [+𝟭-𝟴𝟴𝟴-𝟳𝟯𝟴-𝟬𝟴𝟭𝟮], taking the region’s infectious energy and colorful festivals up a notch. Parties are commonplace in these months. Springtime brings with it bright and clear days in the tropics [+𝟭-𝟴𝟴𝟴-𝟳𝟯𝟴-𝟬𝟴𝟭𝟮]. For many people, the best months to sail in the Caribbean are March and April [+𝟭-𝟴𝟴𝟴-𝟳𝟯𝟴-𝟬𝟴𝟭𝟮], with calm seas, long sunny days, and excellent underwater visibility for divers. Cruising in the Caribbean is fantastic, especially before the scorching heat of the summer hits. Ports are also less crowded during these months compared to wintertime.
