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caribbean cruise in may

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caribbean cruise in may

ENJOY THIS BAHAMIAN PRIVATE ISLAND PARADISE

caribbean cruise in may

  • Ports of Call

We don’t have proof, but evidence suggests that the Caribbean was made for cruising. This evidence is all around you — you’ll find in the Caribbean air, the sand and the water. And with more than 5,000 islands and cays spread across this amazing region, there’s a lot of paradise to see. So how do you choose where to visit on a Caribbean cruise? We recommend you just go and see for yourself! Best of all, the mild climate means it doesn’t even matter what time of year you go. A Carnival Caribbean cruise takes you to some of the coolest little hotspots… stretching across the world’s designated hotspot.

  • Snorkel great natural reefs in crystal-clear waters.
  • Enjoy year-round tropical weather.
  • Take in the beach view on horseback… or beach chair.

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soak up the sun on playa del carmen in cozumel

Grand Cayman

dock on the blue pristine waters of grand cayman

Progreso, Yucatán

visit the el castillo pyramid in progreso

St. Maarten

scenic view of cupecoy beach in st maarten

Montego Bay

explore the rose hall house in beautiful montego bay

Curaçao

dine and shop along the waterfront of curacao

Santa Marta

stunning hilltop view of santa maria

Port Canaveral (Orlando)

enjoy the beautiful landscape in port canaveral

New Orleans

take a stroll down the new orleans river walk

Manhattan, New York City

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Celebration Key

white-sand beach and lagoons surround multiple recreational and leisure locations at celebration key

Mahogany Bay

aerial view of mahogany bay

Half Moon Cay

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Princess Cays

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Eastern Caribbean Cruises

Beaches, azure waters — what comes to mind when you think of cruises to the caribbean.

Best Multi-generational

Cruise Line

2022 Reader’s Choice Award, Porthole Magazine

Picture the Caribbean. Soft sandy beaches, warm winds blowing through palm trees and crystal-clear waters stretching as far as the eye can see. That's the Eastern Caribbean cruise experience. But that's just the start. After a morning swimming, snorkeling or sailing, an entire world awaits on land. Vibrant cultures, rich histories and oh-so-many spots to shop. Dive in; the Caribbean is waiting.

What will you do on an Eastern Caribbean cruise?

Island time. Beach time. You time. There's no one correct way to pass the days in the Eastern Caribbean.

Island shore excursions

Experience the best an Eastern Caribbean Cruise has to offer with award-winning shore excursions that immerse you in thrilling experiences, unique culinary delights and peaceful rejuvenation. Sail on a tall ship at sunset, snorkel with vibrant sea life through teeming reefs, and explore old shipwrecks near the picturesque coastlines.

Late night departures

The Caribbean has a different feeling at night. Revel in its warm evenings and enticing music with our More Ashore program. Later stays in ports such as St. Thomas and Barbados let you soak up the full Caribbean experience, like a fresh-caught seafood dinner on the beach or street fair full of local crafts and flavors. With More Ashore, you get more time to enjoy the vibrant island nightlife.

Breathtaking Beaches

The Eastern Caribbean is renowned for its pristine, sun-kissed beaches, offering crystal-clear waters and powdery white sands that stretch as far as the eye can see. From the famous Maho Beach in St. Maarten, where planes soar overhead, to the secluded shores of Trunk Bay in the Virgin Islands, each beach promises a unique and unforgettable experience. Whether you’re looking to relax under swaying palm trees, snorkel among vibrant coral reefs, or indulge in exciting water sports, the Eastern Caribbean’s beaches are a paradise for every traveler.

Local Culture

Immerse yourself in the rich and diverse cultures of the Eastern Caribbean, where each island offers a unique tapestry of traditions, music and cuisine. Explore the lively markets of San Juan, Puerto Rico, where you can savor local delicacies like mofongo and listen to the rhythmic beats of salsa and reggaeton. Discover the historic charm of Charlotte Amalie in St. Thomas, with its cobblestone streets and centuries-old architecture. Engaging with the warm and welcoming locals, you’ll gain a deeper appreciation of the islands' vibrant heritage and way of life.

Old-world Charm

The Eastern Caribbean is a treasure trove of old-world charm, blending colonial history with enchanting landscapes. Wander through the narrow streets of Old San Juan, Puerto Rico, where pastel-colored buildings and imposing fortresses tell tales of the past. Visit the historic sites of Philipsburg in St. Maarten, or explore the serene beauty of Princess Cays with its quaint beachfront and rustic allure. Each island’s rich history and preserved heritage offer a captivating glimpse into a bygone era, making your cruise an enriching journey through time.

Featured Eastern Caribbean Cruise Ports

Get an overview of some of the Eastern Caribbean’s top islands (plus our main departure port).

  • Princess Cays®
  • St. Maarten
  • Ft. Lauderdale

With a half mile of white-sand shoreline and 40 acres of relaxation, shopping and picturesque beaches, Princess Cays® is one of the best private Eastern Caribbean cruise line ports in the world. Relax in a private cabana, dive into the dozens of available water activities, explore the gorgeous back roads of Eleuthera in a dune buggy, or indulge in shopping from local craftspeople.

St. Kitts and the neighboring island of Nevis were once considered the crown jewels of the Caribbean, and it's easy to see why. Green hillsides, fields of sugarcane and dramatic volcanoes rise into the strikingly blue sky. With its beautifully restored colonial buildings, imposing Brimstone Hill Fortress and museum of Alexander Hamilton at his birthplace, history lovers will have plenty to explore after relaxing on the beautiful beaches on a cruise to St. Kitts.

Two islands in one, St. Maarten is split between France and the Netherlands, but comes together as one memorable experience. From the Dutch-inspired port of Philipsburg with its historic colonial architecture and warm beaches, to the French hub of Marigot full of designer boutiques and bistros, a cruise to St. Maarten has something for you.

Cruise to St. Thomas, an American paradise that contains everything alluring about the Caribbean: sparkling sands, pirate history, coral reef snorkeling and shipwreck dives. Plus, take relaxation to a whole other level, with all the sun, rum punch and island music you could ever dream of.

The "Venice of America" has been the premier destination among spring breakers for almost six decades, but don't let that fool you into thinking the city is one big party. From the Everglades, a UNESCO World Heritage Site home to an amazingly rich biosphere, to seven miles of white-sand beaches, Ft. Lauderdale is a beautifully diverse city offering a diverse array of attractions.

Top-Rated Eastern Caribbean Beaches

Trunk bay, st. john.

Named one of  Conde Nast Traveler's  Seven Cruise Wonders of the World, Trunk Bay is stunning beyond words. Snorkel along an underwater coral reef trail, swim through warm clear waters, and lounge on the white sands while looking out on a vista that can only be described as tropical perfection.

Orient Beach & Little Bay Beach, St. Maarten

Two beaches, both with soft sand, warm water and refreshing breezes, make for the perfect day by the ocean. Snorkel with sea life, paddle through the azure waters, or relax on the beach.

Magens Bay, St. Thomas

One of the top 10 beaches in the world according to  National Geographic  magazine, Magens Bay, is known for its picturesque beauty and deep, sheltered bay with calm waters. With gentle waves rolling onto a white sand beach that stretches three quarters of a mile, Magens Bay is your place to relax, swim and explore with ease.

Caribbean Cruise Onboard Experience Featured Program

Award-winning programs. World-class chefs. And Caribbean-themed activities, day and night. With Princess, your ship is a destination all its own.

Comfortable Accommodations

Your stateroom is your home away from home where you can rest up and recharge between adventures. With the expertly designed Princess Luxury Bed, luxurious 100% Jacquard-woven cotton linens and our SLEEP program, specially created by a board-certified sleep expert, you might just get the best sleep of your life. We offer staterooms ranging from interior cabins to full suites, and we even offer connected rooms for families with more than four members traveling together.

Bringing Local Life Aboard

Embrace the spirit of the islands the moment you step on your ship with our Rhythm of the Caribbean program. Savor island cuisine, sip signature cocktails and engage in authentic regional experiences. Dance beneath the stars to vibrant island rhythms at exclusive parties, and immerse yourself in one-of-a-kind cultural activities — from concerts and crafts to talks from shark experts and treasure hunters.

Never Miss a Beat

Say goodbye to the daily grind with our new Sail Away Party poolside on the top deck, dance to local music at one of the many Caribbean inspired concerts, or be the envy of every pirate at our high-energy gold treasure-inspired Terrace Pool Gold Party. Throughout your Caribbean cruise there will be events that invite you to fully experience the islands.

Deeper Experiences of the Islands

Discover the history of local distilleries while sampling some of the region’s best rums, meet the parrots and macaws that call the Caribbean home in the ship's Piazza, or sink into the rhythms of the region with steel pan drum lessons. Our onboard activities give you the chance to gain a deeper connection and understanding to islands you'll visit on your voyage.

Caribbean Cruise Articles and Videos

Read about colorful cultures, breathtaking landscapes, must-see attractions and preparation advice for cruising the Caribbean.

2024-2025 Caribbean Cruises

There’s no better way to truly experience the laid-back Caribbean than with Princess.

Caribbean Cruise Weather by Month

From radiant sunshine to turquoise waters, enjoy the best Caribbean cruise weather all year round when you sail to these tropical lands with Princess.

Top Five Caribbean Cruise Destinations

Whether you’re a history-lover, adventure-seeker or laid-back traveler, discover the best Caribbean cruise destinations for any guest with Princess.

Best Caribbean Cruises

Visit the best Caribbean cruise destinations with Princess and relax on white-sand beaches or embark on an adventure that will leave a lasting impression.

Top Things to Do in Grand Cayman

From relaxing on the shores of Seven Mile Beach to feeding majestic sea creatures at Stingray City, discover the top things to do in Grand Cayman with Princess.

Best Time for a Caribbean Cruise

Discover the best time for a Caribbean cruise. From the offseason to the sunniest months to the festival season, anytime is the best time to travel to the Caribbean.

Travel, Airfare, & Hotels: Let Princess get you there

Princess EZair® Flights

Stress-free airfare

Remove the hassle from air travel and give yourself the gift of flexibility, time and a thicker wallet with Princess EZair® flights. We negotiate lower rates with the airlines, allow you to modify your flight up to 45 days prior with no penalty and protect you if your flight is late or canceled.

Princess EZair flight quotes are available on our cruise search result details pages.

Airplane to Ship Transfer

We get you where you need to go

Let Princess pick you up from the airport and take you directly to your ship or hotel when you arrive, even if you didn't book your airfare through us. A uniformed Princess representative meets you at the airport after you've retrieved your luggage and transports you directly to your ship or hotel without you having to worry about the logistics of navigating a new city.

Cruise Plus Hotel Packages

Stay longer and relax

Extend your cruise vacation and simplify your travel plans with a hotel stay at the beginning or end of your cruise. With a Cruise Plus Hotel Package, a Princess representative meets you at the airport and pier, transporting you to and from your hotel. The package includes the cost of your hotel stay, transportation, luggage handling and the representative’s services.

Cruise deals & promotions

Start planning the vacation of your dreams with a cruise you'll love at a price you can't beat. Explore our latest featured deals, snag some last-minute savings and see how our all-inclusive packages can make your getaway even better.

#PrincessCruises Caribbean Connections

See the Caribbean through our guests' eyes.

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Caribbean Cruises

When it comes to pleasure, relaxation and reconnecting in the warm sunshine, nothing is better than a Caribbean cruise with Holland America Line.

Why Cruise with Holland America Line

Top reasons to cruise the Caribbean with Holland America:

Award-Winning Private Island

Every Caribbean cruise includes a day at Half Moon Cay, so you can see for yourself why it’s been awarded “Best Private Island,” by readers of Porthole Cruise Magazine for 20 consecutive years.  

Perfectly Sized Ships

Our ships never feel crowded but have everything you need at your fingertips. Breathe in expansive views, explore enriching activities, and relax in easy elegance. 

Island-Inspired Cuisine

Taste the islands on board with fresh local ingredients, Caribbean flavors, and time-honored techniques from our world-class chefs.

Flexible Itineraries

Our Caribbean cruises fit every schedule with convenient weekend departures and many options, from breezy 7-day getaways to extraordinary 21-day explorations.

The True Caribbean Awaits

Our Caribbean cruises take you deep into these featured regions, where you’ll experience island magic through dining, music and nightlife.

Eastern Caribbean Cruises

Snorkel in Grand Turk’s clear blue waters among schools of jewel-toned fish. Sip the perfect blend of rum, mango and magic on Half Moon Cay.

Southern Caribbean Cruises

Discover a breathtaking under-water nature park in Bonaire. Tour Willemsted, Curaçao, and get some great shots of its signature gingerbread rooflines.

Tropical Caribbean

Sit under swaying palms or snorkel with colorful fish on tropical Caribbean cruises to Key West and more. Sun, sand, and relaxation await.

Western Caribbean Cruises

Don your snorkeling gear and explore a shipwreck and coral reef. Visit Key West and tour the home of long-time resident, Ernest Hemingway.

Caribbean Cruises, Every Year From October to April

Venture beyond the known on 7- to 21-day cruises. New for the 2023-2024 season, a 9-day Southern Caribbean itinerary that departs on a Friday and cruises the ABC islands with a late-night call in Curaçao. 

VIEW ALL CARRIBEAN CRUISES

Explore Top Caribbean Excursions

Explore the islands from the top of the twin Pitons to the bottom of the sea with hundreds of unique shore excursions. 

Twisted Divi Divi tree seen on a Caribbean cruise

Top Caribbean Shore Excursions

caribbean cruise in may

Adventurers

Convenient caribbean cruise departure port.

Cruise conveniently with weekend departures from Ft. Lauderdale, the “Venice of America.” There’s plenty to do before or after your cruise from this welcoming city. 

A sunny beach with palm trees in Fort Lauderdale, Florida.

Cruises From Fort Lauderdale, Florida

Featured caribbean cruise destinations.

Every Caribbean cruise stops at our exclusive slice of paradise, Half Moon Cay, celebrating 26 years with us in the 2023-2024 season.

I wish I could stay here forever beach sign on Half Moon Cay

Half Moon Cay, Bahamas

Oranjestad, Aruba

The Dutch island of Aruba feels like another world and offers experiences unlike anywhere else. Relax in the shade of a fofoti tree on a white-sand beach or explore coastal cliffs in a cactus-filled landscape that that has both wild donkeys and lounging iguanas. 

San Juan, Puerto Rico

From relaxing beaches and breathtaking colors, to old cobblestone streets full of hidden gems, incredible flavors and beautiful live music, San Juan always has more to show you.

Castries, St. Lucia

Take a journey into the rainforest and immerse yourself in the untouched wilderness of this paradise island. Touch, hear, taste and feel the true power of Mother Nature.

See All Caribbean Cruise Ports

The Best Way to Explore Caribbean Islands

There are more than 7,000 unique islands in the Caribbean. We’re excited to show you this sun-kissed corner of the world again this year, but with more amenities, family-friendly itineraries, and onboard events than ever before. 

Mountain and palm trees

Caribbean Countries

Our newest ships, back for another caribbean season.

Immerse into the steel-drum rhythms of the islands on Rotterdam and Nieuw Statendam, our two newest ships. Enjoy electrifying music at Music Walk® entertainment venues and exquisite dining, along with youth activities, themed parties and more. Welcome to Pinnacle Class.

Nieuw Statendam

Caribbean cruise travel tips & advice.

Plan your cruise with recommendations on what to pack and things to do. 

Suitcase being packed for a Caribbean cruise.

Packing for a Caribbean Cruise

Family playing in the waterpark on Half Moon Cay.

25 Things To Do in Half Moon Cay

Family swimming in the Caribbean Sea on a Holland America cruise.

First-Timer’s Guide

VIEW ALL CARIBBEAN CRUISE TIPS & TRAVEL ARTICLES

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caribbean cruise in may

The best time to cruise to the Caribbean

Melinda Crow

When is the best time to cruise to the Caribbean ? The easy answer is, whenever it suits you. There's never a bad time to sail to this giant blue fishbowl with a bazillion beaches to explore. That's because the Caribbean is warm and mostly sunny year-round. You can find hundreds of cruise options every single month.

That's not to say that every season is the same, though. If I had to pick based on weather, cost and crowds, I'd vote for winter as the best time to cruise to the Caribbean.

If I were to narrow it down even further, I'd say the best time to cruise to the Caribbean is early December. It's a fun way to create a break between Thanksgiving and the December holidays. Picture yourself shopping for unique gifts after your snorkel excursion or before your spa appointment instead of slogging through slushy mall parking lots with the tip of your nose threatening to freeze, and I think you'll agree.

Here's how the entire year stacks up so you can identify the best time for your travel party to cruise the Caribbean.

Winter: Moderate fares and quiet crowds (except during the holidays)

caribbean cruise in may

Let's start with my favorite time to cruise the Caribbean: winter (December, January and February). The temperatures throughout the region are a couple of degrees cooler than the rest of the year, and the average ultraviolet index dips down to 5 or 6 (moderate to high exposure). Rain typically comes in the form of passing afternoon showers, not tropical storms.

Except for the weeks that include holidays , ships aren't likely to be at capacity or filled with screaming children.

Fares for winter sailings are a bit below the yearly average (excluding the holiday weeks, which are often the highest of the year). Also, deals that bring prices down even lower are typically available. Look particularly for last-minute sales for those first two weeks in December.

The weather at home can be unpredictable in winter, possibly affecting your departure travel plans and preventing you from reaching your Caribbean cruise. Also, winter storms in the U.S. can increase wave action in the Atlantic and in the Gulf of Mexico. The farther north your departure port is, the more likely you are to experience a rough ride until your ship sails south into calmer water.

While most of the winter season offers moderate fares, if your cruise dates are limited to holiday breaks, be prepared for prices close to double what you'd pay during the few weeks before that. To find lower fares, book holiday sailings well in advance.

Ships that sail seasonally in Alaska and Europe often call the waters of the Caribbean home for a few months in winter, resulting in more choices during this time of year.

Are there cruise lines or specific ships you'd like to try? Winter in the Caribbean is an ideal time to test them out — especially luxury and premium cruise lines that often feature lower prices on Caribbean sailings than on their cruises elsewhere in the world. If you prefer childless cruising during the holidays, you can choose an adults-only cruise line like Viking or Virgin Voyages .

Related: The best Caribbean cruise for every type of traveler

Spring: Near-perfect weather with spring break crowds

caribbean cruise in may

If you don't mind spring break crowds, spring is a wonderful time to cruise. The weather in the Caribbean in March, April and May is idyllic, and the seas are likely to be calm. Plus, escaping the last of winter's wrath at home can be just what the doctor ordered to save your sanity.

Prices during the first week of March aren't too high before they edge up throughout the rest of the month. It's even possible to find deals in early May.

If your aim is to cruise with your own children while they are on break, there are plenty of ships with age-appropriate facilities. You'll have options like splash zones for the little ones, monster slides for the adventurers and kids clubs for all ages. Don't forget indoor activities such as laser tag and ice skating.

Related: The 5 best cruise lines for families

The spring break rowdies start in March and often continue well into April. Soon after, in mid-May, the graduation parties begin. If your goal is to avoid crowds of kids and partiers, skip the cheapest and shortest cruises and avoid cruise ships with water parks and thrill rides.

Be aware that spring break is a high season for travel disruptions caused by peak demand. Airlines may overbook. I was once bumped from a flight home after a spring cruise when a high school Spanish club from Wisconsin needed the seats to travel home together as a group. I was compensated and flew out the next day, but what if I had been bumped on my cruise embarkation day?

If you plan a springtime Caribbean cruise, make sure you have a backup plan, including travel insurance , in case your travel itinerary gets rearranged at the last minute.

Spring in the Caribbean — particularly in March and April — often boasts sunny days and calm seas. Clear skies make for fantastic underwater visibility, so if diving or snorkeling is on your list, spring could be a good option for you. Additionally, temperatures haven't yet reached scorching summer levels.

Summer: Fewer storms, many families and prices that may beat land-based trips

caribbean cruise in may

Summer cruising in the Caribbean is ideal for lovers of the sun, sea and sand looking for a fun escape with their kids or grandchildren while school is out. June, July and August temperatures average near 90 degrees throughout the region. While there's a possibility of tropical storms or hurricanes, the Atlantic hurricane season doesn't peak until late August through October.

These are the months when you rarely need to worry about the weather shutting down onboard water attractions or canceling your in-port fun.

Summer months are also perfect for multigenerational cruising, as they are often the only months when everyone's schedules align. And when you have a group to manage, you need as many activities as possible to keep everyone entertained. Summer cruises in the Caribbean make that easy with plenty of options, both on board and in port.

Cruise fares are higher overall in summer than in the other three seasons. Ships sail at or near capacity. Even the ports themselves will likely be crowded. Shops and attractions will overflow with passengers from other ships and land-based vacationers.

You'll also need to plan for mosquitos in port and for serious sun protection. Most of the Caribbean averages a UV index of 7 (considered high risk) during the summer months, holding at a high or extremely high level for long stretches of the day.

Related: Eastern Caribbean vs. Western Caribbean cruises: Which itinerary will I like more?

Despite high fares, summer cruise pricing and crowd levels stack up favorably against most land-based vacations.

Once you factor in the included meals, entertainment and activities on a cruise, then consider traffic congestion, long lines, and skyrocketing hotel costs associated with other vacation options like theme parks and even popular national parks, a summer Caribbean cruise with the family can seem downright affordable and less anxiety-filled.

Fall: Low prices, low occupancy, risky weather

caribbean cruise in may

Fall, especially September and early October, is not a bad time to cruise to the Caribbean — unless you are a worrier or someone who can't go with the flow when travel plans go awry. That's because the autumn months are the peak season for hurricanes and tropical storms. When it isn't stormy, it might still be a bit warm and sticky for some early in the season. Temperatures remain near the 90-degree mark well into October.

The weather isn't all bad in fall, and Caribbean cruise prices are low during these months. I've been on lovely cruises in the Caribbean in September and October with calm seas and uncrowded, quiet ships, all at a fraction of the price of cruises just a handful of weeks earlier in the year.

If you want to save money, avoid the spring and summer crowds and don't mind a bit of rain, a fall cruise might be perfect for you.

Related: From Alaska to the Panama Canal: Here are 9 of TPG's favorite fall cruise itineraries

Weather happens — and in the Caribbean, it happens a lot in September and October. Even if a hurricane doesn't cause you grief, rain might.

A few years ago, I cruised the Western Caribbean near the end of October, and it poured the whole time. I had no idea it could rain that hard in Cozumel. And Grand Cayman? That's where I learned the meaning of the word "torrential." Even with all that rain, it wasn't a bad cruise. The rain didn't interfere with my scuba diving plans.

November feels like a bonus cruise month. The temperatures have dropped a few degrees from summer's heat, and the chance of storms has mostly passed. Extra ships begin arriving for their winter season, and prices remain low for most of the month.

Back home, everyone else is busy buying turkeys and cranberries and catering to the in-laws. You, however, could be lounging on deck sipping a frozen tropical concoction while waiting for your samba class to start.

Related: Caribbean cruise packing list: What to pack for a tropical sailing

Bottom line

Now we're back where we started — with you booking a Caribbean cruise that works for you and your travel group. Each season has something to offer someone, which is what makes this whole year-round Caribbean cruise thing work. If we all thought early December was truly the best time to cruise to the Caribbean, it would cease to be so.

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Enjoy 75% off your second guest’s cruise fare and get bonus savings of up to $200.

May Cruises

Embark on an extraordinary spring adventure

Embark on a cruise in May with Celebrity Cruises. With warm, sunny weather, this is the perfect time for exploring the Acropolis in Athens or enjoying a cappuccino in a sunlit piazza in Rome. In the Norwegian fjords, the days are getting longer, and waterfalls are still in full flow from spring meltwater.

Alaska’s wildlife is waking up in May, with wonderful opportunities to spot bears, the mountains still capped with snow. You’ll also see wildlife galore if you head for the remote Galapagos Islands; May is when sea lions give birth, and baby turtles and iguanas are hatching. Or perhaps you’re just dreaming of a springtime beach getaway? May is a great time to enjoy the white sands and warm waters of the Caribbean or the pale pink beaches of Bermuda.

Itineraries

Top destinations for may cruises.

May is one of the best months of the year for exploring the magnificent antiquities of Athens, Rhodes, and Santorini. Head to Malta, where the honey-colored ramparts of Valletta glow gold in the spring sunshine, or explore glorious hill towns like Valdemossa on the island of Mallorca. The glamorous French Riviera is gearing up in May, too, a time of festivals, celebration, and long, leisurely days drinking chilled rosé in waterfront bistros.

The Caribbean

On a Caribbean cruise in May, you’ll discover exciting islands like Grand Cayman and the ABC Islands. In Grand Cayman, sunbathe along Seven Mile Beach or spend an afternoon marveling at thousands of stalactites and stalagmites in the Crystal Caves. Go horseback riding through the countryside or lounge on pristine beaches in the ABC Islands.

Snow-capped mountains, meadows in bloom, and hikes alongside rushing forest streams are just some of the reasons to cruise Alaska early in the season. In May, humpback whales are arriving for the summer season, and bears are foraging for food after the long winter.  May is also one of the driest months in the 49th state and as the days get longer, there’s a joyful sense of renewed energy everywhere you visit on an Alaska cruise.

The Galapagos Islands

In the Galapagos Islands, May is when sea lions are giving birth to big-eyed pups, and baby land iguanas and turtles are hatching. Waved albatross are laying their eggs on Española, while the blue-footed boobies on North Seymour Island are performing elaborate courtship dances. The water is warm and inviting—and your Celebrity ship will provide everything you need to explore this wonderful place.

Norwegian Fjords

Norway’s glassy fjords are beautiful any time of year, but in May, you’ll find hiking trails lined with wildflowers and the meadows lush and green. Waterfalls cascade over towering cliffs, while mountains still wearing their snowy caps make photography all the more spectacular. This is a wonderful time to ride the steep Flåm Railway, or kayak the silent waters of the Geirangerfjord, looking out for seals lying on the rocks and mountain goats foraging on the shore.

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Royal Caribbean Cruise Deals Guide

When it comes to planning the ultimate getaway, there are so many reasons why cruise vacations rank among the most popular travel options. First of all, they’re completely stress-free. On a cruise vacation, all the planning is taken care of by the cruise line — from the destinations you sail to and the shore excursions available at each port, to a full range of entertainment and activities happening onboard every day. If you’re not a planner, or if the only things you’re looking to focus on during your getaway is savoring great food, relaxing, and soaking up the sights, cruise vacations are the way to go. A cruise vacation is also a great option if you’re traveling with the whole family, especially when you opt for a Royal Caribbean cruise. All of the ships in this cruise line’s fleet offer family-friendly experiences for guests of all ages. Even little ones will find plenty of ways to play with spaces and activities designed for tots to tweens. One of the top reasons savvy travelers love cruising, though, is because of the incredible value it offers. With Royal Caribbean, your cruise fare includes access to most of the ship’s attractions, select dining venues and all of the entertainment onboard. If you want to make your experience even more all-inclusive, you can opt for beverage and specialty dining packages that cover drinks and dinner at some of the most exclusive restaurants in the fleet. On top of all that, the cruise line presents frequent limited-time offers and seasonal sales, making it easy to score big savings when booking your vacation.

I’m ready to start planning my cruise — how can I score the best deals?

Whether you’re looking to book a short getaway or a longer adventure to far-flung destinations, Royal Caribbean makes it easy to save big on everything from your cruise fare to special experiences onboard and onshore. The first step to making sure you get the best deals is to join the cruise line’s email list. Once you’ve signed up, you’ll receive regular updates on all the latest offers, like deals by destination , kids sail free promotions and flash sales. The savings don’t end when you book your cruise, though. Once you’ve made a reservation, you’ll also receive notifications about special offers for onboard experiences — like discounts on beverage and specialty dining packages, shore excursions, spa services, and more via My Royal Cruise .

Does it pay to plan ahead, or should I wait until the last minute?  

It’s an age-old question — does the early bird really get the worm, or are there perks to taking a “wait-and-see” approach? If you’re booking a cruise vacation, you’ll find there are benefits to both strategies. Planning ahead is a great way to score big savings , as Royal Caribbean often runs early saver deals to guests booking well in advance. It’s also pretty safe to assume prices usually go up as availability goes down the closer you get to your sail date, so booking ahead is a surefire way to lock in a great rate. That said, booking a cruise at the last minute can also yield some unexpected savings — but only if the itinerary you’re interested in hasn’t sold out yet.

If you can be flexible when it comes to your travel dates, you’ll have your pick of unbeatable savings. Popular vacation dates — like the holidays , spring break , summer vacation and week long cruises — sometimes see the highest prices (though you might get lucky with a seasonal sale). If you have the flexibility to travel during the shoulder season or off season, you’ll likely enjoy big savings on popular stateroom categories , like Balconies and even Suites. The deals don’t only apply to your cruise fare, though. Once you’ve booked your vacation, you could easily unlock discounts and specials on add-ons, including beverage and dining packages , Voom® high speed internet, shore excursions, and amazing experiences not included in your cruise fare — like a day of pampering at Vitality SM Spa, a behind-the-scenes tour of the ship’s galley followed by brunch, VIP seating at shows, and much more.

How can I maximize the value of my cruise vacation?

There are plenty of ways to get more bang for your buck when you sail on a Royal Caribbean cruise. Every ship in the fleet offers a range of delicious complimentary dining options , but you can dig into even more crave-worthy flavor by purchasing a Specialty Dining Package for less ahead of your cruise. Add a Specialty Beverage Package — which includes unlimited alcoholic beverages, soda, and more — and your experience is as close to all-inclusive as it gets. And with so many complimentary shows and attractions onboard, you can easily fill every sea day without spending a single dollar extra.

Royal Caribbean also offers deals based on departure ports  and destinations, so if you’re a flexible traveler looking for great savings, you can plan your next vacation around which itineraries are on sale. Just check your email or visit RoyalCaribbean.com/cruise-deals to stay up to date on promotions, sales and special offers. You can even browse sailings and deals by homeport, destination and season, so you can rest assured you’re getting the best possible deal no matter when or where in the world you choose to set sai.

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COMMENTS

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  15. The best time to cruise to the Caribbean

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    The Caribbean. On a Caribbean cruise in May, you'll discover exciting islands like Grand Cayman and the ABC Islands. In Grand Cayman, sunbathe along Seven Mile Beach or spend an afternoon marveling at thousands of stalactites and stalagmites in the Crystal Caves. Go horseback riding through the countryside or lounge on pristine beaches in the ...

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