Your guide to unforgettable December cruise vacations, from Caribbean beaches to European cities, Asian islands, African coastlines, Australian summer adventures, and Hawaii.

December is one of the most exciting months to explore the world by cruise ship. While some travelers are preparing for cold winter weather, others are setting sail toward tropical beaches, historic cities, breathtaking landscapes, and extraordinary cultural experiences.

Whether you’re dreaming of a Caribbean escape, a Christmas cruise through Europe, or an adventure across the South Pacific, the best cruises for December 2026 offer something for every type of traveler.

At VOA Worldwide, we believe exceptional travel begins with making informed decisions. That’s why we’ve selected six outstanding cruise regions to consider this December, including examples of scheduled sailings and the experiences that make each destination special.

1. Caribbean Cruises: Tropical Escapes and Island Adventures

Best for: Families, couples, first-time cruisers, and travelers seeking sunshine.

When winter temperatures begin dropping across North America and Europe, the Caribbean becomes an especially appealing destination.

December marks the beginning of a popular Caribbean travel season, bringing generally pleasant tropical conditions and an extensive selection of cruise itineraries.

Top Caribbean destinations to explore

• Aruba: Beautiful beaches, distinctive landscapes, and colorful waterfront neighborhoods.
• Curaçao: Dutch Caribbean architecture, waterfront dining, and exceptional snorkeling.
• St. Thomas: White-sand beaches, scenic viewpoints, and island excursions.
• Cozumel, Mexico: Mayan history, coral reefs, and authentic Mexican cuisine.
• The Bahamas: Clear water, island experiences, and convenient short cruise itineraries.

Featured December 2026 cruise

Royal Caribbean’s Icon of the Seas has a seven-night Western Caribbean sailing scheduled for December 12–19, 2026, departing from Miami.

The itinerary includes Costa Maya, Roatán, Cozumel, and Perfect Day at CocoCay.

For travelers seeking additional destinations, Southern Caribbean itineraries visiting Aruba and Curaçao are another attractive option.

VOA Travel Tip: Compare itineraries based on port time, cabin location, and total vacation cost—not simply the advertised cruise fare. A longer port visit or a better-positioned stateroom may provide significantly greater value.

Explore Caribbean Cruises with Royal Caribbean

2. European Cruises: Holiday Atmosphere, Culture, and Mediterranean Charm

Best for: Couples, food lovers, history enthusiasts, and culturally curious travelers.

Europe offers an entirely different cruise experience during December.

Instead of focusing primarily on beach activities, travelers can immerse themselves in historic architecture, regional cuisine, festive decorations, and charming Mediterranean destinations.

Although the Mediterranean is cooler in December, its major cities remain fascinating places to explore.

Top European destinations to explore

• Barcelona, Spain: Gaudí architecture, lively markets, and world-class dining.
• Rome, Italy: Ancient landmarks, celebrated museums, and centuries of history.
• Palermo, Sicily: Historic markets, Norman architecture, and Sicilian cuisine.
• Marseille, France: A vibrant port city and a gateway to Provence.
• Palma de Mallorca, Spain: Historic streets, a magnificent cathedral, and Mediterranean scenery.

Featured December 2026 cruise

Costa Toscana offers Western Mediterranean itineraries in December 2026, including sailings connecting ports such as Barcelona, Marseille, Savona, Rome’s port of Civitavecchia, Palermo, and Palma de Mallorca.

These cruises are especially attractive for travelers who enjoy combining multiple cultural destinations into one vacation.

VOA Travel Tip: December Mediterranean cruises require a different packing strategy from summer sailings. Bring layers, a light waterproof jacket, and comfortable walking shoes. Also consider extending your vacation with a hotel stay before or after your cruise.

Explore Western Mediterranean Cruises with Costa

3. Asia Cruises: Exotic Islands, World-Class Cities, and Cultural Discovery

Best for: Adventure seekers, experienced travelers, food enthusiasts, and couples.

For travelers looking beyond traditional cruise destinations, Asia delivers an extraordinary combination of tropical landscapes, bustling cities, ancient traditions, and exceptional cuisine.

Southeast Asia is particularly appealing during December, especially itineraries connecting Singapore, Malaysia, and Thailand.

From street-food markets to dramatic coastal scenery, each port introduces a different side of the region.

Top Asian destinations to explore

• Singapore: Futuristic architecture, Marina Bay, luxury shopping, and remarkable dining.
• Phuket, Thailand: Tropical beaches, limestone formations, and island excursions.
• Penang, Malaysia: UNESCO-listed George Town, historic architecture, and renowned street food.
• Langkawi, Malaysia: Tropical forests, beaches, and scenic cable-car experiences.
• Okinawa, Japan: Distinctive island culture, coastal scenery, and local cuisine.

Featured December 2026 cruise

Royal Caribbean’s Navigator of the Seas has a four-night holiday sailing scheduled for December 24–28, 2026, departing Singapore and visiting Penang and Phuket.

An additional five-night sailing departing December 28 includes Penang, Langkawi, and Phuket before returning to Singapore in January.

These shorter voyages offer an excellent opportunity to combine a cruise with several nights in Singapore.

VOA Travel Tip: Consider arriving in Singapore two or three days before embarkation. This provides time to experience the city while reducing the risks associated with long-haul flight delays.

Explore Royal Caribbean Cruises from Singapore

4. Africa Cruises: Discover Southern Africa and the Indian Ocean

Best for: Adventurous travelers, couples, nature lovers, and travelers seeking something different.

Africa may not be the first destination that comes to mind when planning a cruise, yet Southern Africa offers some of December’s most interesting vacation possibilities.

As the Southern Hemisphere enters summer, cruises departing South Africa provide access to warm-weather destinations along the Indian Ocean.

From the coastline of Mozambique to longer island voyages, these itineraries combine adventure with relaxation.

Top destinations to explore

• Durban, South Africa: A lively coastal city with beaches, cultural influences, and diverse dining.
• Portuguese Island, Mozambique: White-sand beaches, warm water, and island relaxation.
• Pomene, Mozambique: Coastal lagoons, natural scenery, and quiet beaches.
• Mauritius: Volcanic landscapes, tropical beaches, and multicultural experiences.
• Réunion: Dramatic volcanic terrain, lush mountains, and French island culture.

Featured December 2026 cruises

MSC Armonia has several departures scheduled from Durban during December, including:

• December 7: Four nights visiting Pomene, Mozambique.
• December 11: Three nights visiting Portuguese Island.
• December 21: Five-night Christmas cruise visiting Pomene and Portuguese Island.
• December 26: Twelve-night voyage featuring Mauritius, Réunion, and Portuguese Island.

These options make Southern Africa especially interesting for both shorter holidays and extended end-of-year adventures.

VOA Travel Tip: International travelers should review flight schedules and entry requirements carefully when planning Southern African cruises. Also, consider adding a pre- or post-cruise land experience to explore more of South Africa.

Explore MSC Winter Cruises

5. Australia and New Zealand Cruises: Summer Adventures and Spectacular Scenery

Best for: Nature lovers, couples, families, and travelers seeking longer journeys.

The Northern Hemisphere experiences winter, Australia and New Zealand are welcoming the beginning of summer.

That seasonal difference makes December an ideal time to consider a South Pacific adventure.

Cruisers can enjoy vibrant Australian cities, remarkable New Zealand landscapes, picturesque coastal communities, and unforgettable scenic sailing experiences.

Top destinations to explore

• Sydney, Australia: Sydney Harbour, the Opera House, and spectacular coastal scenery.
• Auckland, New Zealand: Waterfront dining, volcanic landscapes, and nearby vineyards.
• Bay of Islands, New Zealand: Beautiful coastlines, boating experiences, and historic towns.
• Picton, New Zealand: A charming gateway to the Marlborough region.
• Fiordland National Park: Towering cliffs, waterfalls, and extraordinary scenic cruising.

Featured December 2026 cruise

Princess Cruises has a 13-night New Zealand itinerary aboard Sapphire Princess, scheduled to depart Sydney on December 5 and return December 18, 2026.

Highlights include Bay of Islands, Auckland, Picton, Christchurch, Dunedin, and scenic cruising through Fiordland National Park.

For travelers who want an immersive experience rather than a brief getaway, this itinerary offers an excellent balance of cultural exploration and natural beauty.

VOA Travel Tip: Consider combining a New Zealand cruise with a few extra nights in Sydney. However, remember that Australian and New Zealand holiday travel can be especially busy, so plan flights, hotels, and excursions carefully.

View the Sapphire Princess December 5, 2026 Itinerary

6. Hawaii Cruises: Four Islands, One Extraordinary Vacation

Best for: Families, honeymooners, couples, multigenerational travelers, and nature enthusiasts.

Hawaii is one of the world’s most recognizable vacation destinations. Yet exploring several islands during a single visit can require significant coordination.

A Hawaiian cruise offers a convenient alternative, allowing travelers to discover different islands while enjoying the comfort of one ship.

December also offers opportunities for seasonal whale watching, although sightings and conditions are never guaranteed.

Top Hawaiian destinations to explore

• Oahu: Waikiki Beach, Pearl Harbor, and Honolulu’s dining and cultural scene.
• Maui: Scenic coastal drives, beaches, and natural landscapes.
• Kauai: Dramatic cliffs, tropical valleys, and breathtaking scenery.
• Hawaii Island: Volcanic landscapes, black-sand beaches, and diverse ecosystems.

Featured December 2026 cruise option

Norwegian Cruise Line’s Pride of America operates a seven-day Hawaiian inter-island itinerary year-round, departing Honolulu.

The itinerary visits four Hawaiian islands: Oahu, Maui, Hawaii Island, and Kauai.

This experience is particularly attractive for travelers who want to explore multiple islands without arranging several inter-island flights or changing hotels repeatedly.

VOA Travel Tip: Review the time spent in each Hawaiian port before choosing your sailing. Longer island visits may give you greater flexibility for guided tours, scenic drives, and other activities.

Explore Hawaii Cruises with Norwegian Cruise Line

Which December 2026 Cruise Destination Is Right for You?

Every destination offers a different experience. Therefore, choosing the right cruise depends on your travel priorities, preferred climate, available vacation time, and budget.

These are recommended planning ranges rather than limits on available itineraries.

How to Find the Best Value on a December Cruise

While choosing an exciting destination matters, understanding the complete cost of your cruise is equally important.

Before confirming any reservation, consider the following:

1. Compare total cruise costs. Review taxes, port fees, gratuities, beverage packages, specialty dining, and optional excursions.

2. Evaluate the stateroom. Interior, ocean-view, balcony, and suite accommodations deliver very different experiences.

3. Look beyond the cruise fare. Flights, transfers, hotels, and travel insurance can significantly affect your total vacation investment.

4. Review the actual itinerary. Port duration, overnight stays, and days at sea influence how much of each destination you’ll experience.

5. Consider flexible departure dates. Traveling earlier in December may provide different inventory and pricing from Christmas or New Year’s sailings.

Most importantly, a thoughtful cruise comparison should account for what matters most to you.

Why Plan Your December Cruise with VOA Worldwide?

At VOA Worldwide, our approach extends beyond simply identifying an available cabin.

Through our Travel Portfolio Management services, we help members evaluate travel opportunities, compare options, and make more informed decisions about how to use their travel benefits.

Depending on your membership and booking eligibility, our Concierge Team can assist with:

• Cruise research and comparisons: Explore eligible cruise lines, itineraries, accommodations, and available offers.
• Cruise credit opportunities: Review applicable membership cruise credits when booking through VOA.
• Travel planning coordination: Consider flights, hotels, and transfers alongside your cruise.
• Travel portfolio strategy: Assess how your travel benefits and loyalty programs can contribute to your plans.
• Personalized concierge assistance: Receive guidance tailored to your preferences and travel objectives.

Instead of navigating every decision alone, members can work with a team dedicated to helping them get more from their travel experiences.

Membership benefits, cruise credits, fares, and booking assistance vary by membership level and applicable terms.

Frequently Asked Questions About December Cruises

Is December a good month to take a cruise?

Yes. December provides a wide variety of cruise experiences, from warm-weather Caribbean and Southeast Asian itineraries to cultural Mediterranean voyages and Southern Hemisphere summer adventures. The right destination depends on the experience you want.

What are the best warm-weather cruises in December?

The Caribbean, Southeast Asia, Southern Africa, and parts of Hawaii are strong options for travelers seeking warmer conditions. Weather can vary by island, route, and sailing date.

Are Christmas cruises more expensive?

Christmas and New Year’s sailings often attract greater demand. As a result, pricing may be higher than on comparable early-December departures. However, actual fares depend on the cruise line, ship, stateroom category, and remaining inventory.

Can I book a December cruise at the last minute?

Yes, provided inventory remains available. However, popular ships, holiday departures, and preferred cabin categories may be limited. Flexible dates and destinations can improve your choices.

Can VOA Worldwide help me compare cruise prices?

Yes. VOA Concierge can assist eligible members with reviewing cruise options, comparing available rates, and identifying applicable membership benefits or cruise credits.

Which December cruise is best for families?

Caribbean and Hawaii cruises are especially appealing for many families. However, shipboard facilities, children’s programming, cabin arrangements, and port activities should all be considered before booking.

Your Next Extraordinary Journey Starts Here

From the turquoise waters of the Caribbean to the cultural treasures of Europe, the islands of Asia, the coastlines of Africa, the spectacular scenery of New Zealand, and the natural beauty of Hawaii, December offers extraordinary ways to experience the world.

The best cruise isn’t necessarily the most expensive or the longest.

It’s the one that brings together the destinations, experiences, comfort, and value that matter most to you.

At VOA Worldwide, we’re here to help you explore those possibilities.

Ready to plan your December cruise?

Log in to your VOA Member Dashboard or contact our Concierge Team to explore available sailings, compare cruise options, and review your eligible travel benefits.

VOA Worldwide — Live Better.™

Travel information and published itineraries reflect research conducted in November 2026. Cruise schedules, ports, fares, and availability are subject to change. All bookings are subject to supplier terms and conditions.