Can you swim on a cruise ship in December?

It is generally warm enough to swim during most winter months. Water temperatures take longer to change than air temperatures, so the warm summer months will keep it warm enough to enjoy for the most part during winter.



Yes, you can absolutely swim on a cruise ship in December, but your experience will depend heavily on the destination and the ship's facilities. For cruises to the Caribbean, Bahamas, or the South Pacific, the air temperature remains in the 70s and 80s (Fahrenheit), making it perfect "pool weather." Many modern cruise ships in 2026 are also equipped with heated pools or retractable glass roofs (magrodromes) that enclose the pool deck, allowing for comfortable swimming even on cruises to colder regions like Northern Europe or the Mediterranean. Additionally, almost all ships feature heated hot tubs that stay open year-round. While the water in the ocean at private islands like Castaway Cay might feel slightly "crisp" in late December, it is generally considered warm enough for swimming by most travelers.

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With the exception of Christmas and New Year's cruises and possibly late-winter cruises to warm-weather destinations, you'll find fewer crowds when you sail in the winter. November and early December are shoulder season pretty much everywhere, so you'll have more breathing room and find fewer lines onboard and ashore.

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From December through February, temperatures range from high 70s during the day to lows in the mid 60s at night. March starts a slight warm up, and the months of April to November bring high temperatures in the mid to upper 80s with nighttime temperatures in the low to mid 70s. You have options for your Bahamas cruise.

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Caribbean Seasons
Rain is more frequent in the wet season, but the temperatures are warmer. Wet season and dry season are both good times to cruise the Caribbean. The worst time for a Caribbean cruise weather-wise is August to September, as it is peak hurricane season.

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What month should you avoid in the Caribbean? Due to the risk of hurricanes, September and October are the months when it is wise to avoid the Caribbean.

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The best time to visit the Bahamas is from mid-December to mid-April, the country's peak season. Though temperatures here are great year-round (they rarely dip below 60 degrees), the islands fall within the hurricane belt, so hurricanes may be a factor between June 1 and Nov. 30 (the Atlantic hurricane season).

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Hurricane season in the Bahamas starts in June and runs through November.

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“The Bahamas boasts tropical warm temperatures 365 days a year. Casual summer wear is perfect for your days in the sun but be sure to pack a light jacket or sweater for the cooler evenings from December to February which can dip to 72 degrees,” Duncombe advises.

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Pack Layers – Wearing layers when on a winter cruise is especially important. Staying comfortable requires being able to adjust your temperature by adding or removing layers of clothing. Turtlenecks, sweaters, and flannel shirts are all-important layering pieces.

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Whether you relish a visit from Santa or celebrate by lighting a Hanukkah menorah, you can celebrate both Christmas and Hanukkah on a winter cruise. Cruise lines go all-out with seasonal decor (generally from Thanksgiving through New Year's), holiday activities, religious services and festive food and drink.

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The Bahamas weather in December is cooler and more comfortable than in summer, but there's much less rain and hours of sunshine as you sunbathe by the beaches and your pool. The Bahamas have a hot tropical climate. The drier season's from November to April and December's one of the driest months.

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The location of the Bahamas archipelago in the Atlantic hurricane belt means that the islands are subject to regular hydro-meteorological disasters including hurricanes, storms and cyclones which occur most frequently in the months of September, October, August and November.

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U.S. citizens are generally required to present a valid U.S. passport when traveling to The Bahamas, as well as proof of anticipated departure from The Bahamas. Those traveling to The Bahamas on a cruise may use another Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative (WHTI) compliant document.

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September is the cheapest month for flights to The Bahamas, and the most expensive month is June. Keep in mind, departure dates, class, and even how early you book your flight tickets may affect prices.

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Christmases in Paradise share similarities with an American Christmas, but with some added Bahamian flair. The day is filled with delicious meals, conversations, and laughter, followed by a night of dancing and music.

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December. From mid-December it's peak season (and peak prices) in the Caribbean although you might find some deals at the start of the month. Some resorts try to tempt vacationers with deals ahead of the busy Christmas rush. Weather-wise it's warm and dry with little chance of any thunderstorms.

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I always try to find beauty everywhere that I visit, but you might want to avoid some of these Caribbean Islands. Some of the most dangerous Caribbean Islands to visit are Haiti, Trinidad, Tobago, and surprisingly Puerto Rico. These islands have more crime in general, and you should visit with increased caution.

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