It's upon us...
…Winter that is. The days are getting shorter as the nights draw in quicker and earlier. The leaves are falling from the trees. It’s time to stock up on de-icer and check your tyre pressure for getting through the rain, snow and ice.
But, do not fear the cold, there is something wonderful about this time of year…the cruise destinations…they are fabulous.
During the Christmas and New Year season, ocean and river cruise lines decorate their ships splendidly and celebrate the festivities.
Where can you cruise?:
1) The Caribbean - Who doesn’t want to lay on exotic golden beaches, snorkel or scuba dive in bright blue sea water, walk around pretty towns with colourful buildings, or hire a 4x4 and ride over sand dunes? There is nothing damp and grey here.
The best time to cruise the Caribbean is December through to April, as any other time is considered rainy season. The beautiful small ships dock at small, uncommercialised ports which can not be reached by the large ships. Some ships also offer a water sports marina so are able to kayak, jet-ski, or do anything else which takes your fancy.
A stunning white beach
Waiters looking after your every need
2) Europe - There are less crowds during the winter months and a cruise offers fantastic value for money. Visit Rome, Venice, Barcelona and other Mediterranean cities and enjoy the main attractions without the long queues.
Winter is also a wonderful time to take a river cruise. Cruise along the Rhine, Danube or Seine and visit the wonderful Christmas markets along the way. Return to your ship and enjoy a beautiful meal and a tipple or two.
Rome Colosseum
European Christmas markets
3) Middle East - Winter is a great time to visit as temperatures are just too hot during the summer months. Dubai, Qatar & Oman are popular Cruise ports where you can explore fascinating cities.
The Nile river cruises are an ever popular way to see everything Egypt has to offer. See ancient temples, tombs and local villages. Enjoy shore excursions to the Pyramids or the Valley of the Kings.
Giza Pyramids and Sphinx
River cruise ship
4) Africa - Both ocean and river cruises offer this amazing destination during our winter months. Visit Cape Town, the breathtaking Victoria falls, Zimbabwe, Mumbai & Botswana and of course, a Safari is a must in this part of the World.
South Africa safari
Luxury safari cruise
5) Southeast Asia - Too hot and humid to visit during summer, this offers perfect warm temperature during the winter months. Visit exotic cities like Singapore, Indonesia, Cambodia, Thailand & Vietnam.
Board a luxury all-inclusive river cruise and take it down the Mekong in Vietnam or the Irrawaddy in Myanmar. This is a fabulous way to explore those destinations. These cruises generally run from December through to March.
Luxury Mekong cruise
Vietnam city
6) Australia & New Zealand - Of course, it’s summer down under and a great time to snorkel in the wonderful Great Barrier Reef. Enjoy a shore excursion in Sydney or Melbourne and discover the beauty of New Zealand. Consider travelling in late February or March when the prices are slightly less.
Australia cruise
New Zealand cruise
7) The Galapagos - A bucket list destination. During our winter, it’s their summer and also mating season for turtles, tortoises and sea-lions which means lots of opportunities for wildlife spotting. Galapagos are available for cruising all year round, but during our winter the seas are calmer which makes for great snorkelling.
The busy time for the Galapagos is late December to January, which is high season and most expensive. February or March is a little quieter, and better value.
The Galapagos seals
The Galapagos tortoises
Extend your holiday with pre or post cruise packages, particularly if you are travelling far distances to Australia & New Zealand or Southeast Asia. I can help you get the most from your winter cruise holiday.
Contact me and let me help you find your dream winter cruise.