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
Sailing over the festive season? Browse our full collection of winter cruises from the UK, including our Christmas and New Year itineraries.
Caribbean
Average Temperature: 25-29°C
Swap frosty mornings for sunshine on a December cruise to the Caribbean, where warm seas and dry-season weather make island life easy to enjoy.[ReadMoreMob][ReadMoreDesk] In Bridgetown, Barbados, explore the UNESCO-listed historic centre and Garrison before relaxing on the white sands of Carlisle Bay. St John's in Antigua offers colourful markets and easy access to Nelson's Dockyard, a restored Georgian naval base. Pack lightweight clothing, swimwear, a sun hat and high-factor sun cream, with something smart for festive evenings on board. Expect warm days ashore, gentle trade winds and Christmas celebrated in a relaxed island setting, with the warm, friendly service of a smaller ship.
CANARY ISLANDS
Average Temperature: 18-24°C
The Canary Islands offer a welcome escape from the short, dark days of a British December, with mild sunshine and a relaxed island pace.[ReadMoreMob][ReadMoreDesk] In Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, wander the cobbled lanes of the historic Vegueta quarter, home to Casa de Colón. During the festive season, a nativity scene sculpted from sand usually appears on Las Canteras beach. Arrecife on Lanzarote is the gateway to the work of artist César Manrique, whose Jameos del Agua turns a volcanic cave into a striking cultural space. Pack light layers, sun cream and sunglasses, with a warmer top for breezy evenings on deck. Expect sunny days ashore and festive touches on board, all at the unhurried pace of a smaller ship.
CHRISTMAS MARKETING CRUISES (EUROPE)
Average Temperature: 2-8°C
December is the heart of Christmas market season in Northern Europe, when historic squares fill with wooden stalls, twinkling lights and the scent of mulled wine.[ReadMoreMob][ReadMoreDesk] In Hamburg, markets spread across the city, from the grand setting in front of the Rathaus to the lively stalls of St. Pauli. From Zeebrugge, Bruges is a short journey away, where the Christmas market fills the Markt beneath the medieval Belfry. Pack a warm, waterproof coat, hat, scarf, gloves and comfortable shoes for cobbled streets. Expect crisp, often damp days ashore, festive shopping for handmade gifts and the warmth of a smaller ship to return to, with no flights to catch.
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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