20 best places to cruise month by month

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Selene NelsonNovember 4, 2024

If you’re thinking about booking a cruise, choosing the right destination can be tricky. There are so many rivers and oceans in the world, all offering something a bit different. But, if you’re looking to cruise at a specific time of year, deciding on a destination can be a little easier.

While some locations, like the Caribbean, can be visited throughout the year, others, like Alaska, are more seasonal. Even when places can be visited year-round, there are certain months when they really come into their own. And, when you pick the right month, you won’t just enjoy better weather; you’ll also get to see a destination at its most beautiful and charismatic.

So, if you’re wondering when and where to cruise, we’ve got you covered. Here are 20 of the best places to cruise month by month. And if you’re ready to book a cruise, you can browse hundreds of cruise holiday deals on the travel section of our website.

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Choose a month to travel...

January

February

March

April 

May

June

July

August

September

October 

November 

December

January

Mekong River

Mekong River

The mighty Mekong River winds through some of the most beautiful parts of Vietnam and Cambodia. On a Mekong cruise, you’ll drift past emerald rice paddies, gleaming lakes, remote islands, wooded hills, and leafy swathes of jungle. You’ll also have the chance to visit some of South East Asia’s most remarkable attractions, from the temples of Angkor to exhilarating cities like Phnom Penh and Ho Chi Minh City.

January is the ideal time to enjoy a Mekong River cruise. Temperatures are warm but not sweltering, and there’s plenty of sunshine. Plus, you won’t experience the heavy downpours common during the shoulder months here. And, when things in the UK are at their coldest and darkest, this side of the world can offer the perfect winter cruise escape.

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Panama and Central America

If you’ve always wanted to travel along the Panama Canal, January is a great time to book a cruise. This is the beginning of the dry season in Central America, so you’ll have longer, drier days to do plenty of exploring. Cruises to Panama and Central America will take you to exotic beaches, sweltering rainforests, and ancient ruins.

If you’re interested in nature and wildlife, Costa Rica’s biodiversity is awe-inspiring. History enthusiasts will love exploring the historic streets of Antigua and Guatemala, where the Volcan de Agua volcano looms over grand baroque churches and colourful colonial houses. Lake Atitlan is another must-visit destination in Guatemala, while neighbouring Belize is packed with lazy beach charm.

To learn more about a cruise to this part of the world, why not sign up for the talk, Panama: Canal, Coral, and Culture, running on Rest Less Events on 18th November 2024?

Book event

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February

The Caribbean

The Caribbean

With their constantly balmy climate, cruisers can head to these sun-kissed islands at any time of the year. However, if you’re wondering what the best month for a Caribbean cruise is, you can’t go wrong with February. At this time of year, not only is it less busy (and cheaper) than the holiday season, but the days are long and comfortably warm.

And you don’t have to stick to the Caribbean islands. What about a cruise to the Mexican Riviera? This stunning part of the country backs onto the Caribbean, so you can relax on snow-white beaches and swim in warm, turquoise waters while making the most of Mexican food and culture. Plus, cruising in February means you’ll miss the influx of American tourists who head here during spring break.

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South America

February is the height of summer in South America, so if you’ve always wanted to explore cities like Rio de Janeiro, Buenos Aires, and Santiago, it’s an excellent time to go. On deck, it’ll be warm enough to lounge by the pool, while on land, it’s the ideal temperature to stroll through historic streets and soak up the local culture – and perhaps cool off with a refreshing caipirinha cocktail.

If you’re dreaming of visiting the Patagonian wilderness, February is the last month of high season, with peak temperatures and longish days. If you’re combining a Patagonia cruise with an Antarctica cruise, much of the snow that blankets the shoreline will have cleared by February, improving visibility. Plus, February is an excellent month for whale watching.

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March

Australia

Australia

If you’ve always wanted to visit the land Down Under, March is a really lovely time to go. Because this is the Southern Hemisphere, the peak season is in January and February – and this usually means lots of crowds. Exploring in March, however, means you can appreciate Australia’s gorgeous, varied landscape without sharing the views with thousands of other people.

Prices are also lower in March, which is handy, as cruises to this part of the world don’t come cheap. Plus, temperatures are far more tolerable. Sydney sees pleasant highs of 25°C throughout March, compared to the 37°C heatwaves that tend to sweep the country two months prior.

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New Zealand

While some cruises to Australia involve travelling around this continent-sized country, others take you to Australia’s smaller neighbour, New Zealand. Regularly voted one of the most beautiful countries in the world, New Zealand is arguably at its most stunning in March. And without the throngs of tourists you see in January and February, you can enjoy a far more immersive experience.

Discover the snow-swathed peaks and rugged fjords of the Southern Alps; taste exceptional wines and go hiking in the tranquil Marlborough region; swim in the aquamarine waters dividing the North and South Islands; or soak up the culture of cool, characterful cities like Wellington, Napier, and Dunedin. With highs of around 25°C, it’s the ideal temperature to explore too.

If you’re interested in planning a holiday to New Zealand, there’s an event running on Rest Less Events on 14th November 2024 which will talk you through the sights and sounds of New Zealand.

Book event

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April

Japan

Japan

Japan is beautiful at any time of year, but in April, when the cherry blossom is in full bloom, it’s especially dazzling. The days are getting warmer and longer (temperatures hover at a pleasant 21°C), and there are all kinds of lively springtime festivals to attend. So, if you’d like to immerse yourself in the local culture while taking in some beautiful natural scenery, it’s a good time to go.

However, if you do cruise in April, it’s worth bearing in mind that cruises to Japan are very popular at this time of year, meaning prices will be higher. If you’d like to visit in springtime, try to avoid Golden Week, which usually occurs around April 29th to May 5th. There are a lot of holidays in this period, so things can get a little crazy…and very expensive!

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The Netherlands

Another destination for flower fans – but this one is a little closer to home. The Netherlands is known for its gorgeous fields of tulips, and in April, the colourful bulbs are at their most impressive. Spring is the most popular time to take a scenic river cruise here, and you’ll see far more than flowers along the way.

Most cruises take you to historic, charming Dutch cities like Amsterdam and Rotterdam, while on others you can travel to Belgium and explore medieval Bruges or stately Brussels. As you meander down these picturesque waterways, you can admire fields of blazing tulips, magnificent windmills, and old harbour towns packed with narrow merchant houses.

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May

The Mediterranean

The Mediterranean

May is a fabulous time to cruise the Mediterranean. Temperatures are pleasantly warm rather than scorching hot, and it’s too early for the summer crowds. In June, July, and August, the Mediterranean’s popular port cities are absolutely heaving (Venice sees around 10,000 cruise passengers a day), which can make exploring chaotic and stressful rather than relaxing and enjoyable. Plus, costs are lower in May too.

The Greek islands are at their most beautiful, with long, sunny days, temperatures in the mid-20s, and refreshingly cool seas. The big summer crowds have yet to hit Croatia’s Dalmatian coast, so cities like Split and Dubrovnik aren’t packed to bursting. And Italy’s Amalfi Coast, while always bustling, is far more tranquil than it’ll be a month later!

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Alaska

Alaska

On the other end of the spectrum, there’s Alaska. May is the beginning of the cruise season in Alaska, which runs until around October. And, while the temperatures aren’t as warm as in June or July, you’re probably not going for the weather. Most people visit Alaska for the spectacular scenery and fascinating wildlife, and in May, both are at their peak.

While the mountains are still capped with snow, there’s little rainfall in May and far fewer tourists than later in the season. Plus, May is the month that the wildlife starts waking up, which means you’ll have excellent opportunities to see bears – particularly in the latter half of the month. Alaska’s small towns are also far lovelier when they aren’t jammed with crowds.

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June

Bermuda

Bermuda

Beautiful Bermuda is often unfairly overlooked in favour of its close cousin, the Caribbean. But, if you’re looking to cruise in June and want to visit a truly dreamy destination, it’s a fantastic choice.

Hurricane season hasn’t hit yet, and the seas are usually calm and favourable. And, with average highs of 28° and lows of 23°, the temperatures are pretty much perfect. The pale pink beaches are at their loveliest too.

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Tahiti and the French Polynesian

If you’re happy to travel further (and spend a bit more), Tahiti and the French Polynesian islands are an equally idyllic destination for June. In July and August, these tropical islands get very busy – not just with holidaymakers, but wedding guests too.

In June, however, you can enjoy a much more intimate experience – and the landscapes are stunning at this time of year. Plus, June marks the beginning of the dry season, so it’s much less likely to rain.

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July

The Norwegian fjords

The Norwegian fjords

Much of Europe is chockablock in July, but the busiest places are in the Mediterranean. For a different experience, consider heading north instead – specifically to the Norwegian fjords. The Norwegian cruise season usually runs from May until October, and while you can visit in winter for snow-related activities (and a chance to see the northern lights!), July is the best time to appreciate this region’s jaw-dropping natural splendour.

In July, you can take advantage of the fact that the sun never properly sets. The long, warm days mean you have much more time to explore, and as you cruise through the fjords under the bright evening light, you’ll get a whole new perspective on your surroundings. The towns and cities will be busy, but the seemingly endless days are well worth putting up with crowds for.

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August

Iceland

Iceland

August is peak holiday time around the world, and there are few places where you can escape the crowds completely. However, August is considered the best time to visit Iceland, thanks to the long, light days that allow you to take advantage of the unique landscape and scenery. Icelandic weather is famously unpredictable, and August is no exception – but, just like Alaska, you’re probably not going here to bask in the sun!

Home to thundering waterfalls, milky blue lagoons, bubbling geysers, and smoking volcanoes, there’s so much to see and do. Plus, the fact that the days are so much longer at this time of year means you’ll have a much better chance of appreciating all the magnificence of this incredible country. It’ll be busy, but you can still find quiet spots – whether in the wild, rugged landscapes or the cool, charismatic cities.

To learn more, check out our article; 12 must-see natural wonders in Iceland.

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September

Canada and New England

Canada and New England

If you’re wondering what the best location is for a September cruise, look no further than Canada and the Northeastern United States. September is prime ‘leaf-peeping’ season, so if you love admiring the fiery colours of autumn, then you’re in for a real treat. While you can cruise in October, temperatures are chillier then. On the flip side, if you want to explore big cities like Ottawa or Montreal, it’s far more enjoyable without the sticky summer heat.

Popular cruise options include round-trip itineraries from New York or Boston or one-way journeys to Montreal. Whichever route you choose, in September, you’re pretty much guaranteed to see trees and hills in vast tapestries of reds, oranges, and yellows, as far as the eye can see. This is one cruise where you definitely don’t want to forget your camera!

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October

The Mediterranean

The Mediterranean

If you didn’t manage to visit the Med in May, then October is the next best time to go. The best cruises at this time of year tend to be the ones that go between Venice and Athens. Temperatures are in the low 20°s, the days are sunny and bright, and there’s a noticeable lack of crowds compared to summer – and even September.

While it can feel a little ‘postseason’, most places remain open and activities are ongoing, so it’s ideal if you like quieter, more authentic-feeling holidays. Plus, it’s still warm enough to swim in the sea and kick back on the sand. And it’s vastly cheaper than the peak prices of summer, so if you want to extend your holiday after your cruise, you’ll have plenty of options.

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November

Antarctica

Antarctica

For a once-in-a-lifetime experience, there’s Antarctica…and November marks the start of the winter cruise season here. This bleakly beautiful part of the world is blanketed with ice and, at this time of year, few cruise ships have passed through, so much of the scenery is at its most pristine.

As you cruise through these freezing waters and gaze out at the blue-white glaciers and icebergs around you, the beauty of the frozen landscape might just leave you speechless. And, in November, prices are still considerably lower than in December and January, which is peak season.

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Hawaii

The weather in Hawaii is pretty consistent throughout the year, but if you’re looking for fewer crowds (and lower prices), November is a good time to cruise.

The big tourist rush doesn’t happen until December; that’s when numerous cruise lines operate voyages specifically around the Hawaiian islands, so things can get very busy at this time. In November, however, prices are lower, and even places like Waikiki Beach are far quieter than they’ll be one month later.

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December

European Christmas Markets

European Christmas Markets

For something festive – and much closer to home – why not think about a European river cruise? Cruises along the Danube take you through Germany, Austria, and Hungary. You’ll be delivered to the doorstep of many of the continent’s cosiest and most characterful Christmas villages, including the famous Nuremberg Christkindlesmarkt – one of the oldest and most famous Christmas markets in the world.

If you’re looking forward to the festive season, nothing will make you feel more Christmassy than a winter cruise along a meandering European river. It’ll be chilly (it may very well be snowing!) but you can warm up, sip hot spiced gluhwein (mulled wine), and eat traditional lebkuchen (gingerbread). Or perhaps you’d prefer bratwurst with sauerkraut? You’ll also be able to pick up some wonderfully unique Christmas presents from the artisan stalls.

Check out our list of 11 best Christmas markets to visit in Europe for inspiration. Or, to learn more, why not sign up to historian Sandy Leong’s talk, The Magic of Christmas Markets, which is running on Rest Less Events on 5th December 2024?

Book event

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Canary Islands, Spain

If you’d rather soak up some rays, Spain’s Canary Islands are an excellent choice for a December cruise. Many Canaries cruises sail from the UK in the winter months, so if you’re dreaming of escaping the winter weather and enjoying some glorious sunshine over the holidays, it’s a wise choice.

Temperatures won’t be scorching in December but, hovering around the low 20s, it’s warm enough to hit the beach. Plus, it’s much cheaper than heading to other popular winter cruise destinations, like the Caribbean!

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Final thoughts…

Whether you’re dreaming of a summer cruise or a winter escape, of bustling coastal towns or frozen wildernesses, there’s a cruise holiday to suit everyone.

From sun-drenched beaches and far-flung islands to starkly beautiful backcountry, these destinations are incredibly diverse – and all offer stunning scenery and unique experiences.

If you’re looking for an intrepid adventure, some of these destinations are scattered across the furthest corners of the globe. But if you’d prefer a more leisurely, laidback experience, many of them are within easy reach of the UK – from Iceland to the Mediterranean’s most dazzling stretches of coastline.

For further inspiration, head over to the travel section of our website. Here, you’ll find more information on cruises, including 10 unexpected things you might find on a cruise ship and 10 best destinations for first-time cruisers.

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Are you interested in a cruise? Do any of these destinations inspire you? We’d love to hear about your travel experiences in the comments below.

Selene Nelson

Selene Nelson is an author, freelance journalist, and lifestyle writer for Rest Less. After graduating from the University of Sussex with a degree in English Literature, Selene began contributing to many major newspapers and websites, and has written for the BBC, The Sunday Times, The Independent, Town & Country, and HuffPost. Her specialist subjects include food, travel, and health, though she enjoys writing about a wide range of topics (e.g. her two books are about veganism and psychopathy, respectively!). She enjoys cooking (particularly pasta and Asian noodle soups), reading, travelling, hiking, attempting to keep fit, and watching animal videos on YouTube.

* Links with an * by them are affiliate links which help Rest Less stay free to use as they can result in a payment or benefit to us. You can read more on how we make money here.

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