Cruising in January is the perfect way to escape the post-holiday slump and kickstart the new year with unforgettable adventures. Whether you're dreaming of tropical beaches, icy landscapes, or cultural wonders, there's a January cruise that will make your wanderlust come alive. This guide will uncover the best cruises to take in January, explore stunning ports of call, share tips for planning your trip, and help you make the most of your winter getaway. Let's set sail!
A winter cruise is a great idea for anyone that deals with lots of snow or cold weather in winter, this will give you some relief from those cold snowy days and give you something to look forward too. Also, this is the best time of the year to avoid hurricane season, to avoid lots of kids because they are in school and still have warm temperatures and warm oceans if sailing in Caribbean or southern hemisphere.
The Best Cruises for January
January is a fantastic time for cruising, offering something for every type of traveler—from warm, sunlit escapes to snowy, remote destinations. The best time of year for southern hemisphere cruises, Caribbean cruises and so much more. Here are some of the top cruise lines and itineraries to consider this winter:
1. Caribbean Escapes
If white sands and turquoise waters are calling your name, a Caribbean cruise in January is just what you need. Many cruises visit iconic destinations like St. Kitts and San Juan, Puerto Rico—each offering warm, sunny weather to soothe your soul.
Cruise Line Picks: Royal Caribbean, Celebrity Cruises, and Carnival are favorites for Caribbean itineraries.
Onboard Highlights: Explore thrilling water slides, rooftop pools, and world-class dining. Larger ships also offer private island stops, such as Royal Caribbean's Perfect Day at CocoCay.
2. Panama Canal Cruises
The Panama Canal is a marvel in engineering and an unforgettable experience for any traveler. Ships wind their way through this historic passage, with views of lush rainforests and unique locks.
Cruise Line Picks: Consider Disney Cruise Line or Princess Cruises for their enriching itineraries and luxury experiences.
Onboard Highlights: Enjoy expert-led talks about the canal's history while relaxing on spacious decks.
3. New Zealand & Australia
For those seeking adventure "down under," January cruises in New Zealand and Australia offer sparkling coastlines, urban excitement, and breathtaking natural wonders.
Cruise Line Picks: Check out Holland America or Viking Cruises for refined service and unique sightseeing opportunities.
Onboard Highlights: Delight in curated shore excursions like hiking in Fiordland National Park or sipping wine from Marlborough's vineyards.
4. Antarctica Expeditions
Feeling bold? January is peak time to visit Antarctica. Hop on an expedition-style ship for once-in-a-lifetime views of dazzling glaciers and curious penguins.
Cruise Line Picks: Silversea and Quark Expeditions specialize in Antarctic adventures with expert guides onboard.
Onboard Highlights: Smaller ships allow you to step directly onto icy terrains during daily landings. Plus, enjoy cozy cabins with panoramic windows!
5. South American Adventures
Discover the vibrant culture, stunning landscapes, and delicious flavors of South America on a January cruise that may include stops in Brazil, Argentina, or Uruguay.
Cruise Line Picks: Norwegian Cruise Line and MSC Cruises are perfect for itineraries exploring this diverse region.
Onboard Highlights: Savor international cuisine at onboard restaurants and join salsa dance classes for a fun cultural immersion.
6. Galapagos Islands
These islands off the coast of Ecuador are full of adventure, and not widely traveled by cruise ships, but there are a few major cruise lines but many luxury smaller ships.
Cruise Line Picks: The best ships are Silversea cruises and Celebrity cruise line that feature the Galapagos Islands, more affordable than most of the others that visit. Also National Geographic cruises are wonderful but very expensive.
Onboard Highlights: Visiting the islands themselves. The flora and fauna of the island. Giant Tortoises to Marine Iguanas to the Blue Footed Boobie.
Top Ports of Call in January
One of the most exciting parts of cruising is docking at incredible ports. These are some of the best places to visit while on a cruise in my opinion. Here are some can't-miss January ports and what makes each special:
1. San Juan, Puerto Rico
San Juan effortlessly combines old-world charm with lively modernity. Stroll through cobblestone streets with pastel-painted buildings in Old San Juan and marvel at the Castillo de San Cristobal, a historic fortress with sweeping ocean views. The summer months in the Caribbean can be very busy and extremely hot, so January is the perfect time to see this wonderful island. I have visited twice and would go back again in a heartbeat.
Must-Do Excursions:
Explore El Morro, San Juan's iconic fortress.
Indulge in local cuisine with a mofongo tasting tour.
Dance the night away to live salsa music at nearby clubs.
2. Antigua and St. Kitts
These Caribbean gems offer an ideal mix of serene beaches and thrilling activities. Visit St. Kitts for its lush rainforests, or Antigua for its legendary 365 beaches. You will have plenty of sunshine in this area of the Caribbean. I have visited these islands once and enjoyed snorkeling near the coral reef. You might even see sea turtles
Must-Do Excursions:
Zipline through the forest canopy in St. Kitts.
Relax on Dickenson Bay or Half Moon Bay in Antigua. White sand beaches always make for a wonderful cruise.
3. Panama Canal
Passing through the canal itself is the highlight here, but don’t miss Portobelo, famous for its historical forts. Nearby excursions to Gamboa Rainforest Preserve reveal Central America’s wildlife. When passing through the canal you might enjoy being on deck or enjoying your balcony for the views of the locks in the canal.
Must-Do Excursions:
Take a boat tour to see sloths, monkeys, and exotic birds.
Visit the Miraflores Locks Visitor Center to see the canal mechanics up close.
4. Fiordland National Park, New Zealand
From dramatic fjords to cascading waterfalls, New Zealand’s Fiordland is an untouched paradise that is stunning from every angle. This is a great place for a cruise, and if you have enough vacation days combine it with ports in Australia.
Must-Do Excursions:
Join a guided kayak tour to Milford Sound for unmatched serenity.
Spot playful dolphins and seals during nature cruises.
5. Ushuaia, Argentina
Known as the "End of the World," Ushuaia in South America blends dramatic scenery with rich history. It's also a common port for Antarctic expeditions.
Must-Do Excursions:
Take a scenic train ride through Tierra del Fuego National Park.
Wander the streets of Ushuaia's charming downtown for Argentine local delicacies.
Other places I must mention are the Canary Islands, or other ports in Argentina or Brazil. Also, if you can afford to do a world cruise, the best time for this if most of the trip is in the southern hemisphere is in the winter season.
Weather and Seasonal Considerations
January’s weather varies dramatically depending on your destination. Here's an overview of what to expect:
Caribbean: Warm and sunny, with temperatures ranging from 75-85°F. Perfect beach weather!
Panama Canal: Expect tropical conditions, with some humidity and occasional rain.
New Zealand & Australia: It's summer in the southern hemisphere, so warm and pleasant weather prevails.
Antarctica: Though it's the warmest month (20°-40°F), you'll still need layers and windproof clothing.
South America: Warm to hot in most regions, particularly on the coastlines. Dress comfortably and stay hydrated.
Tips for Booking and Planning
To make the most out of your January cruise experience, consider these handy tips:
1. Book Early
January cruises are popular, so book at least 6-9 months in advance to snag the great deals and cabin options. Many cruise lines also offer early bird discounts. With some cruise lines, a price drop will happen 4 months before a cruise, but only if they have low bookings of that specific cruises.
Last-minute deal cruises can be great, but just remember you might not get the cabin you would like by waiting so late for a deal.
Another thing to think about it the newest ship will cost the most. If a cruise ship was released recently it will have all the bells and whistles which will cost you more than a ship that's 10 years old. I always book older ships. you will have a good time and they are budget friendly.
Choose the right cruise, a short cruise is more affordable and give you a quick escape during the winter holidays. Just remember January is so much cheaper than Christmas cruises or even New Years cruises. So, when booking make sure the cruise leaves after New Years Day, but a New Year's cruise would be fun.
2. Choose the Right Cabin
Balcony Cabins are ideal for scenic routes like Antarctica or New Zealand.
Interior Staterooms are a budget-friendly option but are less scenic.
Double Occupancy rates are common for most bookings, but many cruise lines like NCL offer solo cabins now.
3. Pack Smart
Bring layers for unpredictable weather. Even tropical destinations can get chilly in breezy evenings.
Essentials like sunscreen and motion sickness medicine can be game-changers!
If traveling to South America, bring the bug spray!!! mosquito bites will make you sick.
4. Maximize Your Experience
Take advantage of onboard perks. Attend shows, cooking classes, or wine tastings. There are always free activities onboard, then you can always spend money and have fun playing bingo or in the casino if you like. I have learned how to make origami animals, towel animals, and even how to macramé on a cruise ship.
Plan shore excursions early—spots fill up fast! Especially if you are getting discounts from cruise line for these shore excursions. If not purchasing excursions with the cruise line, the best deals for shore excursions are on Viator or GetYourGuide.
The High Seas Are Calling
January is a great time for cruises that offer incredible opportunities to explore the world while escaping the mid-winter blues. From sun-soaked Caribbean beaches to majestic Antarctic glaciers, the possibilities are endless. From Royal Caribbean cruise line to Regent Seven Seas Cruises, you will have a wonderful time enjoying the winter sun. Start your new year feeling inspired and relaxed, all while creating memories that will last a lifetime.
Are you ready to plan your next adventure? Leave a comment or share this post with your fellow cruise-lovers, and let's get the planning started!
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The Galapagos one is so high on my list – I was considering going this year so this is helpful!
I have to admit, I never thought about going on a cruise until very recently - i.e. when their target audience shifted (or rather expanded) significantly. Would love to go for the End of the World one and see the penguins 😍