Autumn cruises

When it comes to autumn cruises, the ideal destination truly depends on what inspires you most and aligns with your travel aspirations. MSC Cruises offers an array of choices to suit every desire.

If you're seeking a holiday that blends cultural immersion, exquisite cuisine, and vibrant cities, a Mediterranean cruise is likely all you need. Should a sun-drenched escape be more to your liking, the Carribean remains a fantastic option. Even though the autumn months fall within the rainy season, you can still expect an abundance of sunshine and warmth from September through November, making it perfect for those seeking sea and sand. Alternatively, the Canary Islands and Madeira present another excellent choice for warmth, with their stunning volcanic landscapes and consistently mild temperatures.

The autumn months are perfect for exploring the allure of Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Doha. The scorching summer heat gives way to wonderfully pleasant weather, ideal for city exploration or relaxing on pristine beaches. For those drawn to breathtaking natural beauty and cooler climes, a Northern European cruise during autumn, including the Norwegian Fjords, is a captivating experience. While temperatures naturally begin to cool, you'll be treated to the magical, awe-inspiring colours of autumn, offering a wonderful opportunity to witness these enchanting landscapes with far fewer tourists than in peak season.

Autumn brings a delightful change, offering milder, more comfortable weather across many sought-after destinations, from the Mediterranean to the UAE. As the intense summer heat fades, you'll find exploring historic cities and enjoying outdoor pursuits far more pleasant. Crucially, there's also a noticeable reduction in crowds compared to the bustling summer months. 

Should your interests lie further north, autumn unveils spectacular landscapes across Northern Europe, including the Norwegian Fjords, adorned with rich, warm foliage.

Packing for an autumn cruise truly calls for layering, as the weather can be varied depending on your chosen destination. For holidays to the Mediterranean, the Canary Islands and Madeira, focus on versatile pieces: think jeans, comfortable trousers or skirts, and a mix of long and short-sleeved tops. Do include a few lightweight jumpers or cardigans for those cooler moments.

If you're heading to Northern Europe, a waterproof jacket, warmer jumpers, and heavier clothing are essential to stay comfortable in cooler climes. For those cruising the Caribbean, don't forget sun cream, and all your beach essentials. Meanwhile, the consistently mild climate of the United Arab Emirates and Qatar means you can comfortably pack your summer attire.

Regardless of your destination, comfortable walking shoes are a must for exploring ashore, alongside smart-casual options for evenings. You might also want to include a few elegant outfits for stylish nights on board.

MSC Cruises offers an extensive range of autumn cruises to suit your holiday schedule. Whether you're seeking a brief escape, our mini cruises spanning 2 to 4 nights are an ideal choice. For a more traditional break, we have a selection of standard 7-night itineraries. Should you be planning a more extended autumn getaway, consider our MSC Grand Voyages ranging from 15 to 24 nights.

Autumn cruise prices vary based on the length of the desired itinerary, your chosen cabin and experience, and the destination you’d like to visit. MSC Cruises also offers a variety of deals and discounts throughout the year, designed to help you find an option that aligns with your budget.

The autumn period in the Caribbean, from September to November, falls within its rainy season. Typically, however, rainfall is brief, swiftly giving way to sunshine. Temperatures remain consistently warm: in popular spots such as the Bahamas, Caribbean Mexico, Puerto Rico, and the Dominican Republic, daily highs generally sit between 29°C and 32°C. The climate is warm and humid, though the evening sea breezes often provide a welcome freshness.
Even with the chance of rain, you can still anticipate an abundance of sunny days. The sea remains beautifully warm, which makes water activities especially appealing.

For an autumn Caribbean cruise, your luggage should primarily consist of light, adaptable items. Essential swimwear is a given, alongside breathable, light clothing such as cotton or linen dresses, shorts, t-shirts, and sundresses. For evenings, a selection of smart-casual outfits will serve you well. Comfortable walking shoes for shore excursions and sandals are fundamental. Lastly, do pack a lightweight waterproof jacket or a compact poncho for those sudden tropical downpours.