Are Christmas market cruises worth it?

Christmas market cruises, which are offered by a number of river cruise lines, are the perfect way to absorb this special holiday experience. The ships slowly sail from port to port, and market to market, allowing passengers to get a feel for each city's twist on tradition.

Should I go on a cruise for Christmas?

Pros of a Christmas Cruise

You don't need to shop for gifts that may just get forgotten in a few months, and instead the cruise is your gift and you will make memories to last a lifetime with the different ports of call you visit, shore tours you experience and other fun you have on board.

Do cruises do anything special for Christmas?

Cruise lines go all-out with seasonal decor (generally from Thanksgiving through New Year's), holiday activities, religious services and festive food and drink. Even better, you don't have to cook, clean or make nice to your least favorite relatives. Of course, every cruise line puts its own spin on holiday cheer.

What are the best Christmas market cruises?

Why are Christmas cruises so expensive?

Extremely high demand and a slowly increasing supply during family holidays = higher prices. Higher demand also creates higher occupancy on ships = crowds and long lines.

8-Day European Christmas Market River Cruise on Scenic Opal Review

Are Christmas cruises cheaper?

The high demand for cruise excursions over the holiday season drives up prices significantly. Cruise lines recognize the allure of escaping the winter chill and the holiday chaos, and as a result, they tend to charge premium rates for cabins during Christmas and New Year.

What is the least expensive month to cruise?

What is the cheapest time to book a cruise? Prospective cruisers can usually find "a lot of good deals at the beginning of the year" during wave season, Goldberg-Glazer said. That period typically lasts from January until March.

Is a cruise in December a good idea?

December is one of the best times to take a cruise. Whether you're looking to escape the winter cold or just prefer to celebrate the holiday season at sea, the end of the year is the perfect opportunity to relax and unwind on a ship. So what are some of the best places to cruise in December?

Do cruises get cheaper the closer you book?

Cruise lines often discount their prices a month or two before sailing to fill vacant cabins. However, it's worth noting that a last-minute cruise doesn't always offer the most savings to travelers. Those who plan far ahead may be able to save even more.

What does Royal Caribbean do for a Christmas cruise?

Royal Caribbean decks the halls with holiday décor, transforming the Royal Promenade into a winter wonderland guests of all ages will love. Throughout December, on Caribbean cruises, enjoy festivities that include special appearances by Santa's elves, gingerbread-cookie decorating, family story time and much more.

Are cruises cheaper than holidays?

The base prices for cruises are typically lower than prices for resorts because the cruise lines expect you to make up the difference in onboard purchases.

What to expect on a celebrity Christmas cruise?

Celebrity Cruises

On the ship, guests can revel in the joyous spirit of the season with festive Christmas trees, traditional holiday meals, themed shows and pop-ups, carolers, gingerbread winter villages, and even a visit from Santa.

What are cruises like at Christmas?

Yes, there were Christmas decorations up, like all cruise ships feature at this time of year, and a particularly beautiful gingerbread village. There was also Christmas lunch on the menu, and Santa Claus arrived, but we didn't get significantly more. We were simply paying more to be on a cruise ship at Christmas.

Is it expensive to cruise in December?

Prices for sailings that include Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year's rise steadily throughout the year, so book as early as possible. If you plan to take advantage of early December sailing dates, late summer and early fall sees prices about as low as they will go. Book your holiday cruise during your summer cruise.

Are cruise ships crowded during Christmas?

Is a Christmas Cruise crowded/are there a lot of kids on board? Christmas and holiday cruises are very popular with families and children, and the cruise ship will be sailing at full capacity.

Is Christmas a good time to cruise the Caribbean?

The best time for a Caribbean cruise is from December to April when the weather is dry, 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.

What months to avoid for cruising the Caribbean?

Caribbean Seasons

Rain is more frequent in the wet season, but the temperatures are warmer. Wet season and dry season are both good times to cruise the Caribbean. The worst time for a Caribbean cruise weather-wise is August to September, as it is peak hurricane season.

Are last minute cruises a good idea?

In short, last-minute cruise bookings could offer significant savings. While booking a cruise last-minute isn't the best option for everyone, it can be a win for your wallet if you're flexible and spontaneous.

Are last minute cruises cheap?

By booking a last-minute cruise deal a few weeks or a couple of months before sailing, you may be able to enjoy a more affordable vacation. Cruise lines often discount their prices a month or two before sailing to fill vacant cabins.

Is it good to cruise the Caribbean in December?

The best time for a Caribbean cruise is from December to April when the weather is dry, 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.

Is it cold on a December cruise?

Some days will be in the upper 70s or even low 80s, but other days can see temperatures drop into the 60s or even lower. Generally speaking, packing in layers is the key. Cold fronts in these parts of the country are short-lived, and will not last long.

Where is the best affordable place to go on a cruise?

Caribbean, Bahamas and Mexico in Fall

Autumn is a bargain time for cruising in almost any region, but the lowest prices are for cruises to the Caribbean and Bahamas. If you're looking for last-minute, seven-night cruises under $500 per person, you'll find them during this shoulder season.

Which cruise destination is cheapest?

Caribbean, Bahamas and Mexico in Fall

(Shorter three- to five-night cruises are equally affordable.) These low prices are partly caused by the general lack of travel between Labor Day and Christmas but also are a result of hurricane season in the Atlantic/Caribbean.

Why are MSC cruises so cheap?

Reducing cabin size is another way to save money

Cruise lines like MSC, who want to achieve optimal passenger count, have adjusted some of their cabin sizes to allow for more people on board--Another way that MSC maximizes passenger capacity and thereby offers low prices.

Is Disney Christmas cruise worth it?

What they say about the "Disney difference" is no lie - their cruises are phenomenal. Everything from the beautiful Christmas decor to the service was excellent. My waiters always remembered my food allergy and were very helpful with suggestions and alternatives. Everyone on the cast and crew were friendly.