If you’re just not a winter person, you might be thinking about getting away from it all once the weather starts to cool. If you are, it could be time to turn your attention to the many all inclusive cruise deals available. What better way to escape the drab and dreary UK winter than by spending a week or two on the deck of a fabulous cruise ship? Escape the cold in style with our picks of the best winter cruise destinations around.
Greek Islands
If you’re after a warm climate and historic exploration, a Greek Island cruise could be the one for you. Enjoy your Mamma Mia moment exploring these diverse islands dotted with ancient ruins, pretty coves and traditional tavernas serving local specialities such as mezze, stifado and souvlaki. With Mykonos famous for its nightlife and Corfu and Crete providing a winning mix of craft markets, historic sights and evening entertainment, the islands are brimming with Mediterranean appeal. Whichever islands you visit during your itinerary, you can expect mild weather and highs of 17°C in the winter months so you can leave your winter jackets at home.
Canary Islands
For those in search of sunshine, water sports and impressive day trips, a Canary Island cruise will hit the spot. With highs of around 20°C-21°C in December, January and February you can to up your Vitamin D levels while your friends are left shivering at home. Each island has its own personal charm; Fuerteventura offers a laid-back vibe and golden beaches, while Lanzarote is blessed with volcanic landscapes and awesome natural wonders such as the Cueva de los Verdes, a lava tube with an eerily still subterranean lake. No trip to the Canaries is complete, however, without time spent at Tenerife’s outstanding Teide National Park.
North America and Hawaii
For something really different, a cruise to North America including Hawaii is definitely worth looking into. North America opens up a treasure trove of sightseeing – think bustling New York, the idyllic Everglades and sunny Florida, offering real diversity. The climates can vary as much as the landscapes, however, so make sure you pack a variety of clothing options. When North America cruises feature Hawaii it’s a winning combination; the 50th state has a charm all of its own with beaches, volcanoes and water sports offering endless possibilities for leisure and relaxation. Hawaii offers year-round warmth, although winter is a little rainier so pack a lightweight mac just in case.
Caribbean
A classic Caribbean Cruise is just the thing to chase away those winter blues. It’s a cliché but it’s true! The Caribbean offers a taste of paradise and those swaying palms, sugar-soft sands and impossibly beautiful sunsets are waiting to be enjoyed. Most cruises stop off in Bridgetown, Barbados; the island’s exciting capital on the south-west coast. Here, attractions include George Washington House and numerous shipwreck dive sights; it’s the ideal spot for underwater exploration. Antigua is another island gem, boasting 365 beaches – one for each day of the year. The distinctive Piton mountains in St Lucia are another highlight, offering rewarding scenery for those into hiking and walking. With winter temperatures sizzling between 24°C-29°C, a Caribbean cruise offers the whole package.
Australia and New Zealand
For a bucket-list experience like no other, a cruise to Australia and New Zealand is a once-in-a-lifetime treat. Ditch Christmas feasts for a barbecue on the beach with a cruise around some of Australasia’s world-famous attractions. Whether you’re checking out Sidney’s iconic Opera House or gazing in awe at the Great Barrier Reef, a cruise to these shores offers unrivalled visual spectacle. New Zealand also has its fair share of natural wonders, with 50 volcanic cones scattered across its varied landscape. The slick city of Auckland also packs a punch with upscale dining, as well as the 192m Sky Tower providing jaw-dropping views of this modern city.
Cruising in winter opens up plenty of possibilities. Not only does booking a holiday at this time of year mean you’ll have something to look forward to as the UK summer comes to its close, but you’ll also get the chance for some sunshine to escape the cold snap of winter.
