January Cruises
January cruises are a fantastic way to start the year, combining quieter sailings, a variety of itineraries and the chance to escape the winter chill or embrace seasonal highlights abroad. Whether you’re looking for warm winter sun close to home, short cultural breaks in Europe, or something more adventurous as part of a longer journey, cruises in January offer a wide choice of destinations and durations.
From sun-filled destinations like the Canaries and Spain, and city-focused sailings to Belgium, or the opportunity to experience Japan as part of a world cruise, Fred. Olsen’s hand-crafted itineraries are designed for rewarding travel at this time of year.
Discover Cruises in January
Popular January Cruise Destinations
Canaries & Spain
Average Temperature: 18-22°C
January is an ideal time to cruise to the Canaries and Spain, where winter warmth and blue skies await. These itineraries are perfect for guests seeking winter sun without long-haul travel, combining leisurely sea days with great shore tour offerings.
Belgium
Average Temperature: 3-6°C
Belgium is a popular cruise destination in January, particularly for guests seeking shorter itineraries and cultural escapes. Sail into historic ports like Zeebrugge and explore cities such as Bruges, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its beautiful canals and historic buildings. January brings fewer crowds, making it a great time to explore at a relaxed pace while still enjoying a festive atmosphere in many city centres.
World cruise
Average Temperature: Typically 20–28°C (varies by region)
If you are looking for an extraordinary way to begin the year, guests can enjoy a world cruise with Fred. Olsen. Sailing from Southampton, guests will journey across multiple continents, with stops in Madeira, the Caribbean, Central America, Hawaii, Japan, and onward to Africa and beyond.
Tips for Cruising in January
Tip 1:
Pack for layers – January cruises can span multiple climates, so lightweight layers work well alongside warmer outerwear.
Tip 2:
Book early for peak itineraries – Popular winter sun routes and world cruises can fill quickly.
Tip 3:
Look out for longer stays – Fewer sailings mean more time in port on selected itineraries.
Tip 4:
Take advantage of a fresh start – January cruises are ideal for those wanting a relaxed, uncrowded experience at sea.
More Cruises By Month
More Cruises By Month
Answering FAQs about January cruises
Is January a good time for a cruise?
January is an excellent time for a cruise, offering a perfect escape to warmer climates with lower fares and fewer crowds. There is a wide range of itineraries available across different durations and destinations.
What destinations are best for a January cruise?
Winter sun destinations such as the Canaries and Spain are especially popular. At the same time, longer world cruise itineraries to the Caribbean, Central America, Hawaii, and Asia are also well suited to January.
Is it cold on a cruise ship in January?
This depends on your itinerary. Tropical destinations like the Caribbean are warm, with daytime temperatures often in the mid-20s to the low 30s. While it is rarely cold in popular southern regions, evenings can get chilly, so it is recommended to bring layers.
Do January cruises suit first-time cruisers?
January is an excellent time for first-time cruisers, offering lower fares, quieter ports and a relaxed onboard atmosphere. Tropical destinations offer pleasant, warm temperatures rather than the extreme heat and crowds of summer.
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