The Benefits of Booking a Peak Season Cruise

Peak season cruises might be more expensive and busier than off-season cruises, but there are plenty of reasons why they can't be beat.

Peak season cruises mean that your ship is fully staffed, that there's more to see and do in ports, and that your cruise line has added programming, like additional children's activities. With peak season often falling on school holidays, it also means that families and friends can more easily travel together.

"Peak season travel is given that name not just because it's the height of when many people travel, but it's also the peak time to visit certain destinations," said Colleen McDaniel, spokesperson at Cruise Critic.

And since the perks of peak sailings are plentiful, plan as early as you can so you can pick your preferred ship, cabin, itinerary, and more.

Ideal Conditions

Peak season tends to coincide with the best weather and optimal conditions, which also means minimizing potential disruptions and itinerary changes. 

For example, when visiting Europe in the summer, its peak season, you can expect little rain and lots of sunshine. In the Caribbean, peak season tends to fall from December through April, driven by milder temperatures and school holidays. This window also means avoiding hurricane season, which is from June through November 30.

More To See and Do on Land

Peak season travel means exploring ports when an array of tours, shops, and activities are open to the public, which may close later in the year, giving you a more well-rounded experience than you might have in the off-season, said McDaniel. 

"So, while you may see greater crowds and higher prices due to demand, you also get to experience these destinations at their absolute best. This can be a big deal, especially if you plan to visit a destination only once," she noted.

More To Do Onboard

Because ships tend to be busier during peak season, they're staffed to operate at full capacity to ensure a high standard of service. "[Cruise lines] plan to accommodate people's needs and optimum access to activities, like shows and excursions, based on ship size and full capacity," said Kelly Connor, an AAA Travel advisor in Marlton, New Jersey. "In general, travelers don't need to be worried about crowding on ships," she says, explaining that an array of added activities for people of all ages ensures that guests are spread out.