Wondering if the worrisome “Hurricane Season” is a good time to book your cruise to the Caribbean? Tempted by the discounted prices, but searching guidance on the pros and cons? Here are the answers to some of the questions you may have to help you decide "weather" or not to take the plunge!
1. When is Hurricane Season? Hurricane Season for the Caribbean runs from June through November, with the peak being mid-to-late-August to the first weeks of November. Although this brings you to the Caribbean in the hottest months, it allows you the ability to book a cruise for the whole family – kids included during summer months – at a much lower rate than most cruise dates.
2. Could my cruise be cancelled due to a storm? Cancellation of Caribbean cruises during hurricane season are actually very rare. True, itineraries may change throughout your cruise if weather affects your course, but the technology that exists today to track and measure storm systems (including computer-generated storm models from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration or NOAA) allows for better planning and safer sailing. If itineraries change, this can sometimes give travelers an opportunity to spend an extra day at a port (yay-more time for exploring!), or change course to a new destination altogether! Travelers who are serendipitous and spontaneous actually LOVE this aspect as it adds to the thrill of adventure! Either way, it’s a good idea to secure travel insurance with specific policies for cancelations or disruptions during severe weather, just in case.
3. Are some areas of the Caribbean less affected by hurricanes? Yes! The Southern Caribbean lies just below the Hurricane Belt, leaving it less susceptible to severe tropical storms or hurricanes. This could get you the best of both worlds – safer destinations at a savings!
Regardless, you still may experience rougher seas than usual as you sail, or changes to your itinerary as was mentioned. A word of advice would be to pack plenty of motion-sickness remedies and plenty of patience – flexibility in your schedule is a must!
Cruisers – I hope these answers give you a better sense of what to expect when booking your Caribbean cruise during the summer and fall months. If you have additional questions or are ready to book your next adventure – I’m here!
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