5. Spring Break

Looking for peace, quiet, and sunshine? If you're not traveling with kids, we suggest avoiding cruises during the February and March school vacation periods. There are often a lot of kids on board, from partying college types (especially on less expensive, shorter sailings) to families with multiple children who are taking advantage of school vacations. Even if you have extra time off from work during this time, and the weather and rates look good, your only chance at a quiet sailing is picking a ship with age requirements, such as those by Viking Ocean Cruises and Windstar Cruises.