A woman looking out over the ocean

Cruise Climates

Your Guide to Cruise Climates

Cruising holidays can sometimes be heavily associated with sunny, glorious climates and endless sunbathing. But that’s not all there is.

The time of year you choose to go on a cruise, and your destination, will affect the climate you find yourself faced with. So we’ve put together this guide to help you get a better idea of when you can access your favourite type of weather, and where in the world you need to go to do so.

Lofoten - Norway
A view of the Northern Lights over a mountain, river and town in Norway

We’re going to look at the following:

  • Where to go for a sunny cruising break and when

  • Where to go for a cooler cruising break and when

If you’re torn between basking in the sun or wrapping up a little warmer and exploring, this guide is on hand to help you make the most of your next cruise break.

St. Lucia - West Indies
A beach in the Caribbean with a large mountain in the distance

Where to go for a sunny cruising break and when

Some cruise lovers venture across the seas for the glorious sun that we tend to be lacking in the UK.

But where are the best places and times to go to ensure you get access to beautiful warm weather?

A sunny beach in the Caribbean

The Caribbean

The Caribbean

The Caribbean is one of the most popular cruising destinations because of its wondrous sunshine, and all year round this holiday favourite is brimming with heat. The summer does see temperatures higher than the colder season, but the winter is also perfect for a summery cruise too. Just be sure to keep an eye out for hurricane season!


Summer beach under morning sun in Egypt Sharm el-sheikh Morning - plank beds and umrellas

The Red Sea

The Red Sea

If you’re cruising during the summer you can make the most of some of the most popular destinations in Europe including the likes of Italy and the French Riviera. These destinations are popular because of the beautiful weather and endless cultural experiences, so don’t miss out.

A cliff side town in the Western Mediterranean

The Mediterranean Sea

The Mediterranean Sea

If you’re cruising during the summer you can make the most of some of the most popular destinations in Europe including the likes of Italy and the French Riviera. These destinations are popular because of the beautiful weather and endless cultural experiences, so don’t miss out.

The skyline of Istanbul

Aegean Sea

Aegean Sea

Two more popular holiday spots are Greece and Turkey, and they make for excellent cruising destinations too. The weather is gloris during the summer months, meaning you get to experience some true sunshine filled bliss.


An aerial view of Kauai

Hawaii

Hawaii

Another exciting destination to cruise to for some amazing sunshine is the iconic state of Hawaii. A tropical seeker’s dream, Hawaii has the weather and beaches to dazzle even the most seasoned summer-sun cruiser. If you think you’d like a slice of paradise in the heat, then Hawaii could be for you.

Where to go for a cooler cruising break and when

However, not everyone on a cruise is seeking sunshine and warmth during their break. In fact, there are a range of cruises that make the most of cooler weather throughout the year. Whether you want to cruise in the UK summer or winter, there are always places where you can go to make the most out of the colder climates.

If you want to cruise but aren’t concerned about the weather, then cruising during the winter months could be the ideal solution. Take a look below at our top recommendations for cooler weather.

An Image of a Harbour in the Mediterranean

The Mediterranean

The Mediterranean

During the summer this area is quite warm. However, if you head to these parts during the winter months then you will find yourself faced with weather conditions that are much cooler. Not only will the weather be cooler, but the crowds will also be reduced meaning you can explore destinations without battling endless crowds too.

A group of explorers on an expedition of Antarctica on a boat

Polar Regions

Polar Regions

If you really want cooler weather, one obvious place to venture on your next cruise is into the Polar Regions. Here, you’ll find the some wonderful scenery and that the weather is usually around the lower teens and single figures mark. Cruise liners only seem to head to these destinations during the summer months however, so if you’re looking to escape to a cool climate in the warmer months then this cruise route could be perfect for you.

A woman looking over the River Thames, at Big Ben

United Kingdom cruise

United Kingdom cruise

What many people in the UK realise is that there are actually UK cruises available. These will obviously be subjected to much cooler weather meaning that you can enjoy your time on board without worrying about being too hot or getting sunburnt. The UK makes a rather unique place to cruise and allows the chance to appreciate our home land in a whole new way.

A View of the Auckland waterfront in New Zealand

New Zealand

New Zealand

During the British summer, New Zealand experiences their winter. So if you want some cooler weather whilst enjoying a cruise, then heading to this area of the world could be ideal for you. There are plenty of cruise providers that have ships that sail here, so make sure you check them out. There are some fantastic sights to see in this area so it’s important to seriously consider this destination if you want a cooler break.

An Alaskan field full of pink flowers

Alaska

Alaska

As one of the most commonly known cold places in the world, it’s guaranteed that a cruise to Alaska will see you faced with weather a little on the cooler side. You will get the chance to experience some truly unique scenery should you choose to cruise to this part of the world, so make sure you explore your Alaska cruising options.

If you’re interested in going on a cruise no matter what weather you’re after, then why not see what we have available at Cruise Nation? Our holidays are suited to all types of travellers, so whether you’re after glorious sun or a cooler retreat we’ll have something for you.

To find out more, give our helpful staff a call on 0800 408 0757. We’re ready and waiting to assist you with seeking the cruise of a lifetime! Make sure you don’t miss out.

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