Weather
Most cruise itineraries are set in a region at a time of year when you can expect good weather, and blue skies and calm seas is probably what you will get. However, the weather is sometimes unpredictable and will play a big part in the enjoyment of yor cruise, so selection of the right region and season and then the size of ship for the conditions is very important. We have included a "When to Cruise" comment for each of our cruise regions on our Destinations Pages (see navigation bar above) so we suggest you review this as part of your selection process.
The best time to cruise in Europe and the Mediterranean is from mid Spring to mid Autumn with rain a greater risk in northern Europe. Winter cruising in the Med can be pleasant but there is a much greater risk of storms and cold weather. The Canaries weather is a combination of the African heat tempered by an Atlantic Ocean that can get rough from time to time. Alaska's weather is acceptable from mid May to September but often rainy.
The Caribbean is a year round destination with a warm tropical climate and temperatures ranging from 27C/80F to 38C/100F. However most cruises sail between November and April when the temperatures and humidity are lower and the hurricane season is over. The hurricane season runs from June to November. Cruise ships will try to avoid any storms and carry the latest satellite weather and navigation equipment to do this although this may well involve a change in your itinerary - so be prepared for this if you cruise in this period.
Similar storms can arise in other parts of the world according to the season. The Pacific is a year round destination. In Hawaii temperatures are a consistent 80F all year round but it is dryer during the summer months. In the South Pacific the weather can be very hot and humid.
While ships carry sophisticated technology and mechanics and can evade storms they can’t avoid them entirely so you may run into rough waters. The effect of storms can travel across oceans and the waters can still be rough hundreds (even thousands) of miles away. Be prepared - read our tip on seasickness and pack your favourite remedy.