Is it possible to switch on the television today without encountering news about a hurricane hitting some location? The months of September and October are commonly referred to as the “shoulder” season in the cruise industry. April and May also fall within this period. The specific region where you plan to sail also plays a crucial role. Coming back to September and October, the Hurricane season in the Caribbean typically spans from June to November! The peak season is from August to November. What are the reasons for considering a cruise during this time of the year?
- Cruise companies are well aware of the hurricane season. They tailor their routes accordingly, choosing ports in advance that have lower storm risks. Itineraries might be altered if adverse weather conditions arise.
- Ships can attempt to navigate around storms. A cruise ship doesn’t operate like a train on tracks. Similarly to how airplanes seek to fly over or evade storms, cruise ships can change their course to avoid bad weather.
- Explore relocation cruises. If, like myself, you perceive the ship as the destination itself, consult your travel agent about cruises that involve relocating a ship from one market to another. For instance, the ship might be moving from the Caribbean to the Mediterranean. This type of voyage is unique, not a recurring weekly one. You will have ample sea days to relish the ship, along with intriguing port visits.
- Regard the ship as a getaway. Let’s consider two scenarios. Your ship is cruising in the Caribbean and encounters rainy weather. You’re confined indoors. In another scenario, you’re on a world cruise commencing in Southampton and heading towards New York during January – it’s cold outside. Once again, you’re primarily indoors. Participants of world cruises usually anticipate this and find plenty of onboard activities. There are 14 decks brimming with entertainment!
- You can still enjoy a swim. If you love the beach and want to dive into the water, getting rained on isn’t ideal. Many ships feature pool areas equipped with retractable glass roofs. These spaces can also be heated if the weather turns cold.
- Avoid the masses. If you’ve visited crowded European cities like Venice or Barcelona, you understand the hustle and bustle. Summer vacations are popular due to school breaks and family trips. Flying during the off-season often means less crowded tourist spots.
- Potential airfare savings. If you need to fly to board the ship, airfare adds to your expenses. Summer flights can be costly, but you may save during the off-peak season.
- Possible hotel discounts. If you plan to extend your stay for a day or two, securing a hotel is necessary. Off-peak travel often means reduced rates and easier access to popular restaurants.
- Moderate weather. Sailing in the shoulder season typically offers pleasant weather that isn’t excessively hot.
- Lower cruise fares. During the peak season, everyone desires a break. In the off-peak and shoulder seasons, cabins are harder to fill. Your travel agent might secure a favorable deal for you, possibly allowing an upgrade to a more luxurious cruise line or a larger cabin.
There are numerous advantages to cruising in the shoulder season.
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