11th November 2024

We’re banishing those (looming) winter blues this week with a look at the destinations that promise plenty of vitamin D! Months of plummeting temperatures, bitter winds and big winter coats are the perfect excuse for a cruise. Not that we needed one… 

Whether you’re cruising the closer-to-home Canaries or sailing in the sun ‘down under’, you’re sure to return with a jealousy-inducing glow (from both your tan and your demeanor!)

The Caribbean

Cocktails, coastlines and culture...

A classic winter sun spot that needs little introduction, the Caribbean’s powder-white sands, swaying palms and lush jungles are just the beginning. Diversity is hardwired into the archipelago’s DNA, with each island bringing something unique to the table (and we’re not just talking about Jamaican jerk or Bahamian conch fritters). From St. Lucia’s UNESCO-listed Pitons and Antigua’s untouched beaches to colonial forts in Puerto Rico and Mayan Ruins on Mexico’s Caribbean coast, a cruise through these waters is the epitome of easy going.

Temperatures can creep all the way up to 29°C without even breaking a sweat!

See our Caribbean Cruises

 

The Canaries

Spanish charms & African sunshine

Another group of islands throwing their name into the (sun)hat for consideration – the Canaries are a haven of wide open spaces, year-round warmth and breathtaking natural beauty. Just 62 miles off the African coast at their closest point, temperatures often sit comfortably in the early 20°C’s from November to February, making winter a great time of year to get out and explore.

So whether you’re erupting with excitement at the volcanic landscapes in Lanzarote’s Timanfaya National Park, admiring Gran Canaria’s golden sand dunes or taking in views of El Teide in Tenerife – a cruise is one of the best ways to sea it all…

See our Canary & Atlantic islands cruises

 

South Africa

Mountain wilderness meets modern metropolis

Whilst the skies are grey and daylight hours shorter in the UK, summer season is just starting in the southern hemisphere. November to March is when you’ll find South Africa in its sunshine prime, with temperatures reaching 32°C.

Cape Town is choc-a-bloc with ‘must-do’ experiences. Chief among them being a visit to the top of Table Mountain – a majestic plateau dominating the skyline, it’s arguably the city’s most famous landmark. When you’re ready to come down from the clouds, head to the Bo-Kaap neighbourhood for traditional Cape Malay cuisine, meet the penguins of boulder beach, visit the V&A waterfront or take a vineyard tour. Wine not? You’re on holiday after all!

See our South Africa cruises

 

Australia

Say g’day to warm weather, wildlife and natural wonders

Home to ochre deserts, iconic beaches, breathtaking blue mountains and one of the world’s seven natural wonders – The Great Barrier Reef – there’s no denying Australia is as varied as it is vast. Put in some towel time on the Gold Coast. Climb the Sydney Harbour bridge. Take a dip in Tasmania’s impossibly blue waters. Explore the wonders of the Kakadu National Park. Keep an eye out for koalas and kangaroos in East Gippsland… the list goes on. December to February is summer high season, with temperatures 30°Cs and rising in big-name cities like Adelaide, Brisbane, Darwin, Melbourne and Sydney.

See our Australia cruises

 

Sri Lanka

Quite simply paradise found

This exotic island might be shaped like a rain drop, but don’t be fooled! The winter months (November to March) bring a surplus of sunshine and temperatures in the early 30°Cs. A tropical paradise teeming with ribbons of golden sand, gently lapping waves and towering palm trees – Sri Lanka’s beaches are near mystical in their power to slow down time. But if you come for the coastline, you’ll stay for the culture. UNESCO-listed temples and crumbling ruins showcase the best the country has to offer, with the rock fortress of Sigiriya being one of the island’s most dramatic sights.

See our Sri Lanka cruises