December Cruises
December is a special time to cruise, combining festive celebrations with the chance to escape winter at home. Fred. Olsen’s December cruises offer a choice of warming winter‑sun destinations, such as the Caribbean, and festive-themed sailings to the likes of Germany.
Sailing aboard Fred. Olsen’s smaller ships, you’ll enjoy thoughtfully planned routes, welcoming onboard spaces and shore tours to Christmas markets and historical sites.
Discover Cruises in December
Popular December Cruise Destinations
Caribbean
Average Temperature: 25-29°C
A December cruise to the Caribbean is perfect for those seeking sunshine during the festive season. Guests can enjoy leisurely days on white‑sand beaches, vibrant island culture and island-hopping between tropical destinations, with Christmas and New Year celebrated in a relaxed, unique setting.
CANARY ISLANDS
Average Temperature: 18-24°C
If you are looking for winter sun cruises, the Canary Islands combine sunshine with palm‑lined promenades, volcanic landscapes and a relaxed island life. With plenty of time ashore to unwind, this is an ideal escape from the colder months back in the UK.
CHRISTMAS MARKETING CRUISES (EUROPE)
Average Temperature: 2-8°C
December is the heart of the festive season in Europe, when historic cities and riverside towns come alive with traditional Christmas markets, twinkling lights and seasonal celebrations. Fred. Olsen’s Christmas Market cruises offer a relaxed way to experience Europe’s most enchanting festive markets, including visits to destinations in Germany, France and Belgium.
Tips for Cruising in December
Tip 1:
Decide between winter sun and Christmas markets – Choose warm destinations such as the Caribbean or Canary Islands for sunshine, or opt for sailings to Germany, France and Belgium that focus on some of the best festive celebrations in the world.
Tip 2:
Pack with your destination in mind – Lightweight clothing suits warmer climates, while destinations like Germany, France and Belgium will be cooler and you will need to pack warmer layers.
Tip 3:
Make the most of longer voyages – December is ideal for extended itineraries, allowing you to truly unwind and explore at a slower pace.
Tip 4:
Festive celebrations – Whilst the main seasonal celebrations will centre around the Christmas markets, there will be festive-themed events taking place onboard, and you can experience local cuisine during a shore tour.
More Cruises By Month
More Cruises By Month
Answering FAQs about December cruises
Is December a good time to go on a cruise?
December is ideal for cruising, especially for guests looking to enjoy winter sunshine or celebrate the festive season in a relaxed and memorable setting. You can also book some great cruise deals in December.
Where can I cruise to in December with Fred. Olsen?
Fred. Olsen’s December cruises include destinations such as the Caribbean, the Canary Islands and selected Mediterranean itineraries. There are also special Christmas market cruises to destinations such as Germany, Belgium and France.
What is the weather like on a December cruise?
The weather depends on the destination. The Caribbean and Canary Islands enjoy warm, sunny conditions, while Germany, France and Belgium, which feature in our Christmas cruise itineraries, are colder.
Do December cruises include Christmas and New Year?
Many December sailings are timed to include Christmas, New Year or both, with festive meals, decorations and onboard celebrations.
Is December a good month to cruise the Caribbean?
December is an excellent month for a Caribbean cruise, offering warm and dry weather. If you are sailing in early December, there are generally fewer crowds.
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