5 cruise destinations to escape winter
As winter is in full swing in New Zealand and we’re dreaming about escaping to sunnier climates. Here are the best cruises for fun in the sun.
1. The Caribbean
It’s the world’s most popular cruise destination, and for good reason. Peak season in the Caribbean runs from June to August and you’re virtually guaranteed sunny skies, calm seas and an endless stream of pina coladas. All the major cruise lines sail around the Caribbean, generally departing from a port in Florida and making their way around the Bahamas, Jamaica, Barbados and more, often with a stop at their own private island.
2. South Pacific
Our closest cruise neighbour is just about perfect this time of year. From now until October the islands of the South Pacific are warm and dry, and there’s little chance of cyclones. Cruises depart from Sydney, Melbourne or Brisbane and spend a couple of days at sea before arriving in Fiji, New Caledonia, Vanuatu or the Loyalty Islands. These cruises are a mix of city ports and deserted tropical islands, so you can get plenty of beach time while also immersing yourself in the local culture.
3. Mekong River
During our winter months, the areas around the Mekong will be warm, lush and tropical. May to October is technically the rainy season along the Mekong River through Vietnam and Cambodia, though for cruisers that’s a good thing. It usually only rains for an hour or two each day, so there’s still plenty of sunshine to enjoy. Secondly, more rain means higher water levels on the river. Boats can venture further along the river, exploring more remote destinations along otherwise inaccessible tributaries.
4. The Kimberley
It’s cold in southern Australia, but up in the northwest corner the weather is gorgeous. The Kimberley is the most popular adventure cruising destination in the country with small expedition ships sailing between Broome and Darwin along the stunning coastline. Because the ships are small they can stay close to the shoreline, giving guests a front row seat for rugged rock formations, pristine beaches and thundering waterfalls. Excursions head out daily on small zodiacs or helicopters, visiting ancient rock art sites, swimming holes and vast gorges.
5. European rivers
Spend the European summer cruising along its iconic rivers: the Rhine, Danube, Seine, Rhone or Moselle. The river cruising season runs from May to October though the end of the season is generally better. Heavy spring rains early in the season can cause rivers to rise and boats are unable to pass under bridges. There are hundreds of itineraries to choose from here with the most popular being a cross-continental transit from Amsterdam to Budapest. Your small ship will dock right in the centre of Europe’s great cities so you can spend sunny summer days strolling through the ancient streets.
Have you been lucky enough to cruise these incredible regions, and if so how did you enjoy the experience?
Share your story in the comments.
Related links:
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