When Are Cruise Ships Least Crowded?

Cruise ship routes can affect crowd levels, with January being a popular time for cruising due to its lower prices. However, it is important to choose the right cruise line and ship to avoid crowds. The best time to visit is typically when warm, sunny days are plentiful and rain is scarce. If you are not a fan of crowds, you may want to pass on traveling when everyone else is going.

The best time to go on a cruise is typically when warm, sunny days are plentiful and rain is scarce. Most people on a cruise will sleep in – at least a little. Breakfast becomes more of a brunch when the 10am rush hits the buffet. Every destination has a peak season, low season, and shoulder season. Peak season is where you will encounter the best temperatures, but these sailings come with higher cruise fares and more crowded ships.

Cruise ships are sailing at close to full capacity year-round, but cruising during the shoulder season, or the beginning and end of a cruise season, may result in ports that are less crowded. For example, if you want to go to Alaska or Europe, try and sail in May or September. The winter are the busiest months, while Hurricane season is the least busy. Some ships are not sailing completely full, but most are pretty close, and none will feel empty.

To avoid crowds without spending extra money, it is best to go at your own pace. Sleep in, catch breakfast right before it closes, go to the cafe instead of the buffet, and order room service. Royal Caribbean ships rarely sail less than full capacity, but choosing a cruise during the shoulder season can feel less crowded, especially in the ports of call you visit.

Sail in January or February, or in the Fall. Stay away from ships with more than 3,500 passengers and relax, going with the flow. Choose a set dining time rather than Anytime dining to avoid waitsqueues. Shoulder season in the Caribbean is May through November, the months just before peak season, which is December through April. Fares for seven-night cruises are typically lower than for other cruise lines.