Winter Cruises

There are many winter cruise options with different lengths, so you can pick the one that fits your plans best. You can go on short cruises, week-long routes, or even longer ocean crossings. If you only have a few days for your winter break and want a quick escape, you can choose from our mini-cruises that last 2, 3, or 4 nights. If you-re searching for a longer journey, MSC Cruises offer that last 10, 15, 17, or 19 nights, and even big journeys that go up to 28 nights.

The price of a winter cruise can vary depending on several factors like the itinerary length, the kind of accommodation you choose and the destination. But MSC Cruises has many choices to suit your budget. With the available winter cruise deals, finding the perfect vacation within your budget is simple!

The reasons why winter is a great season to sail for a cruise holiday are more than one. Firstly, a cruise gives you the chance to comfortably reach warm destinations in the middle of winter so you can recharge your batteries for the start of the new year to the mild and warm climate of fantastic destinations such as the Caribbean, the Canary Islands and the Emirates.

If you prefer to visit the Mediterranean art cities, during the winter months you can wander the streets of these cities, visit their museums and main attractions with complete peace of mind, avoiding the crowds of the summer months.

In winter, some destinations really reach their peak with their magical Christmas vibes that warm even the coldest climate. Especially December and January are perfect months to visit some of the major cities in northern Europe and breathe in the festive atmosphere in the famous Christmas markets.

Finally, a winter cruise is really a great holiday to recharge your batteries for the New Year, perhaps spending Christmas or New Year's Eve on board enjoying the maximum comfort and the many activities of MSC Cruises. 

What to pack in your suitcase during the winter months depends on your destinations. For warmer destinations, such as the Caribbean, the Canary Islands, Madeira, and the Emirates, where the winter climate is milder and sunnier, we suggest packing light clothing, such as t-shirts, shirts, shorts, and a few sweatshirts or jackets for cooler days.

While for a winter cruise sailing to Northern European countries, we suggest packing warm clothing such as a winter jacket, preferably padded and waterproof in case of rain, along with wool sweaters, warm wool shirts, and warm or waterproof pants. Scarves, hats, and gloves are also essential to protect against wind. The same clothes, though lighter, can also be bought for your winter cruises in the Mediterranean.

The Caribbean is one of the most popular destinations for a winter cruise. The weather in December, January and February is characterized by mild temperatures ranging between 25 and 30°C. Since winter is part of the dry season, the sky is consistently clear with extremely low chances of rain. A winter vacation in the Caribbean is therefore perfect for escaping the cold and spending unforgettable moments of warmth and sunshine, enjoying the crystal-clear sea and stunning shores.

Given the mild and warm Caribbean climate, your winter cruise suitcase should primarily consist of light and casual clothing such as t-shirts, shirts, and shorts. Of course, don't forget to bring swimsuits along with sunscreen and sunglasses to enjoy the fantastic Caribbean sun. For slightly cooler evenings, we recommend packing a few heavier items, like sweatshirts and long pants.

The Canary Islands experience a dry winter with mild temperatures, sunny days, and little rainfall therefore the weather is perfect for exploring the stunning landscapes of these Atlantic islands. However, in the evening, the temperatures might drop slightly.

The winter climate in Madeira is also mild but more humid compared to the Canaries, making the temperature a bit cooler, though still pleasant and warm throughout the winter. Here too, the chances of rain are low, although they might increase in the mountainous areas.

Think of shorts, dresses, and t-shirts for the warm days. For cooler days, include a light jacket or sweater in your luggage.

The winter climate of Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Qatar is truly ideal for those seeking a warm winter vacation. The temperatures are extremely pleasant from December to February, ranging around 20-25°C during the day, while the nights can be slightly cooler. The sky is almost always clear and sunny, providing the opportunity to enjoy beautiful bright days.

The mild temperatures of the Emirates and Qatar will allow you to pack light and breathable clothing such as short-sleeve shirts, blouses, and shorts. Light sweaters or sweatshirts could be useful for cooler days. We also recommend bringing some covering clothing such as long pants or long-sleeve shirts, which can be useful when visiting mosques and other religious sites.