christmas cruises for 2023

• Favorites & Watchlist Find a Cruise Cruise Deals Cruise Ships Destinations Manage My Cruise​ FAQ Perfect Day at CocoCay Weekend Cruises Crown & Anchor Society Cruising Guides Gift Cards Contact Us Royal Caribbean Group
• Back to Main Menu
• Search Cruises " id="rciHeaderSideNavSubmenu-2-1" class="headerSidenav__link" href="/cruises" target="_self"> Search Cruises
• Cruise Deals
• Weekend Cruises
• Last Minute Cruises
• Family Cruises​
• 2024-2025 Cruises
• All Cruise Ships " id="rciHeaderSideNavSubmenu-4-1" class="headerSidenav__link" href="/cruise-ships" target="_self"> All Cruise Ships
• Cruise Dining
• Onboard Activities
• Cruise Rooms
• The Cruise Experience
• All Cruise Destinations " id="rciHeaderSideNavSubmenu-5-1" class="headerSidenav__link" href="/cruise-destinations" target="_self"> All Cruise Destinations
• Cruise Ports
• Shore Excursions
• Perfect Day at CocoCay
• Caribbean Cruises
• Bahamas Cruises​
• Alaska Cruises
• European Cruises​
• Mediterranean Cruises​
• Cruise Planner
• Make a Payment
• Beverage Packages​
• Shore Excursions​
• Dining Packages​
• Royal Gifts
• Check-In for My Cruise
• Update Guest Information
• Book a Flight
• Transportation
• Book a Hotel
• Required Travel Documents
• Redeem Cruise Credit
• All FAQs " id="rciHeaderSideNavSubmenu-7-1" class="headerSidenav__link" href="/faq" target="_self"> All FAQs
• Boarding Requirements
• Future Cruise Credit​
• Travel Documents​
• Check-in​ & Boarding Pass
• Transportation​
• Perfect Day at CocoCay​
• Post-Cruise Inquiries
• Royal Caribbean
• Celebrity Cruises

TIS THE SEASON FOR ADVENTURE

Holiday cruises.

Fill the December holidays with tropical, action-packed days and unforgettable memories. Start a new tradition with the biggest holiday cruise celebration at sea.

This year, spend the holidays in a warm winter wonderland with your favorite holiday traditions — plus some epic new ones — onboard the world’s boldest ships. Bring everyone together for Thanksgiving memory-making that the whole family will be grateful for. Sailings in December keep magical Christmas celebrations dancing through your head. And it all culminates in the hottest New Year’s Eve party at sea. So get onboard and deck the holidays with us.

EXPLORE AVAILABLE HOLIDAY CRUISES

Enjoy the ultimate holiday celebration with loved ones this festive season.

{{error.text}} {{error.link.label}}

SIGN UP FOR DEALS ON holiday CRUISES

Sign up to receive information about our special offers and deals. You can unsubscribe at any time. For more details about how we use your information, view our Privacy Policy .

MAXED OUT IN NEW TRADITIONS

A holiday at sea is filled with epic new traditions in the making. Onboard, have a blast hanging ten on the FlowRider®* or gasping in awe at a high-diving AquaTheater spectacular. And on shore, you’ll be glad you ditched the cold for extra bold experiences from ATV jungle treks to underwater snorkel discoveries and more.

tropical holiday fun

You don’t need snow for plenty of whoa this December. Choose an island-hopping getaway for winter fun under the sun. All of the best holiday cruises for families spend one glorious day at CocoCay.

DASH THROUGH THE WHOA

It’s the most thrilling time of the year — with exclusive adrenaline-pumping experiences you won’t find on any other cruise line. Try skydiving right on deck, take on The Perfect Storm℠ waterslides and more!

REVELRY AND RIVALRY

Holiday time is family time. Discover incredible ways to take togetherness — and competitive spirit— to new heights. Cheer each other on while scaling the signature Rock Climbing Wall, or see who’s brave enough to plunge down the tallest slide at sea, Ultimate Abyss℠.

PUTTING THE SEA in seasonal favorites

Holidays onboard are decked out with everything you love most about the season. Gather 'round for a sumptuous Thanksgiving dinner — without lifting a finger. Wander through a winter wonderland as the Royal Promenade comes alive with Christmas cheer. Ring in the New Year with a massive balloon drop plus sensational beats. And that’s just a taste of the celebrations in store. 

HOME STYLE HOLIDAYS

Pack your appetite — all your favorite flavors of the holiday season are onboard. Savor mouthwatering Thanksgiving staples like oven-roasted turkey and old-fashioned pecan pie. And  Christmas dinner classics, like honey baked ham and homemade sides.

LIGHTING UP THE SEA

Whether you celebrate Christmas or Hannukah, you’ll find your most treasured holiday traditions at sea — with festive tree and menorah lighting ceremonies on every sailing in December.

NEW WAYs TO NEW YEAR

Ring in the new year with an enchanting countdown to the massive balloon drop. Plus, score an invitation to the hottest New Year’s Eve party at sea, where jam-worthy live music starts the year on just the right note.

STRESS-FREE HOLIDAY BLISS

Need a no-pressure family getaway? A romantic beach adventure for two? Whatever style you're looking to celebrate in, you'll cruise through this year's holiday season stress-free.

FAMILY FUN FOR EVERYONE

Make sure you stop at  Perfect Day at CocoCay  for an action-packed adventure that everyone will love. Kiddies can splash to their heart's content at Splashaway Bay or head to the swashbuckling Captain Jill's Cannon for the ultimate pirate experience. See who's brave enough to conquer all 13 waterslides at  Thrill Waterpark , or relax along the  Oasis Lagoon . Get the whole family together on a hot air balloon ride and make holiday memories to last a lifetime.

BABY, IT'S NOT COLD OUTSIDE!

All you want for Christmas is a tropical vacation? Get away from holiday pressure and expectations with a romantic December cruise to the Caribbean! Explore local traditions together, swim in secret waterfalls and unwind on powdery Caribbean sands. Romantic beach picnics are just the beginning of your holiday escape.

SPEND THE HOLIDAYS ON THE BOLDEST CRUISE SHIPS AT SEA

Incredible is on the itinerary when you set sail on one of our Oasis Class cruise ships. Get your adrenaline fix with two onboard water slides, a wave park and the only boomerang slide at sea. Dash through the seas and launch into the holiday spirit with themed parties and daily shows. 'Tis the season to indulge! Enjoy one of our specialty restaurants where you'll find traditional favorites and new holiday-themed dishes and delights.

EXPLORE OUR LARGEST CRUISE SHIPS

GET INTO THE HOLIDAY SPIRIT

The ship's crew is there to make sure you have the best holiday cruise. At the start of your voyage, take part in the time-honored tradition of lighting the massive ship's tree. Join Santa's hardest working elves for the ultimate Christmas celebration and a surprise Christmas giveaway. Get up on deck for a festive walk in support of World Wildlife Fund's Arctic programs, presented by Coca-Cola. Decorate your own gingerbread cookies and unleash your creativity with DIY ornament classes.

EXPLORE MORE

Previewing: Promo Dashboard Campaigns

My Personas

Code: ∅.

This is the announcement bar for Poornima to test the Close Button.  It will expire May 31 2024.

• Pre-Cruise FAQ
• Onboard FAQ
• Post-Cruise FAQ
• Cruisetours FAQ
• Special Offers Sign Up
• Cruise Deals

You have been logged out

Your window will update in 5 secs

The Best Holiday Cruises Are With Princess!

Holiday celebrations at sea.

A variety of holiday activities on board offer fun for the whole family. Don’t forget to pack your festive outfits and take part in the holiday cheer! Enjoy games & activities including:

• Stanley breakfast event – wear your family pajamas
• Holiday Wishes Variety Show
• Menorah Lighting
• Ugly Holiday Sweater Competition 
• Lighting of the Lights Ceremony
• Family Gingerbread House Making Competition, judged by the Executive Chef, Pastry Chef, Captain and Entertainment Director*
• Holiday Family Movie Nights, featuring favorites like “Elf,” “A Christmas Story” and “The Grinch” 
• Holiday Caroling in the Piazza
• Santa’s Arrival and Gift Giving
• ‘Twas the Night Before Christmas reading, where kids are encouraged to wear their PJs and enjoy hot chocolate
• Interdenominational Church Services, led by guest volunteers or onboard teammates

*Subject to availability

Christmas Cruises

Take a Christmas cruise with Princess

• White Christmas
• Baby It's Cold Outside...
• The Most Wonderful Time of the Year

Regardless of where you're sailing, it actually snows in the Atrium of your decked‐out Princess ship. And of course, Santa visits each of our ships for gift giving — we offer cookies for him, and carrots for his reindeer. Experience the Christmas tree lighting and mingle with Kris Kringle as Yuletide Carolers sing joyful classics onboard your ship. And our very own Stanley the bear joins in on the fun for holiday storytime and breakfast event. Don't forget to pack and wear your family holiday matching pajamas!

But it’s warm and toasty onboard a Princess ship! Enjoy Christmas on a cruise ship as you sip eggnog, compete in a magical gingerbread house‐making contest, snowman building competition or design a special keepsake ornament. Revel in the Ugly Sweater party (don't forget to pack it!), Holiday Family Fun Fair, and countless joyful activities await you on your holiday cruise.

The most wonderful time of the year should be wonderful for everyone. That’s why Princess, voted the best cruise line for multigenerational families (Portholes) offers the best Christmas cruises for families and guests of all ages. Kids can go play in our youth and teen centers, where they’ll enjoy fun holiday parties (and you’ll enjoy evening kid-sitting for a nominal fee so parents can celebrate a festive night out too!). Then the whole family can reunite for a stress-free Christmas dinner, feasting on a delicious banquet while cherishing each other’s company.

Thanksgiving, Hanukkah, and New Year's Cruises

• The Best Thanksgiving Cruises
• Thanksgiving Dinner
• Thanksgiving under the Stars
• Hanukkah Cruises
• Hanukkah Traditions
• New Year's Cruises

Enjoy lovely autumn décor, take part in a Turkey Calling Contest, and add a special message to our annual Tree of Thanks in the ship's Atrium.

Leave the cooking to Princess, and join us for an elaborate traditional holiday feast in the dining room, complete with all the trimmings.

What would Thanksgiving be without football? Watch the games on our Movies Under the Stars® outdoor big screen.

The Festival of Lights burns brightly with a menorah‐lighting ceremony, themed crafts, festive décor and special events, like a reading of Sammy Spider's First Hanukkah on the first night of Hanukkah.

Enjoy traditional Hanukkah delicacies specially prepared by our professional chefs, such as potato latkes and gefilte fish. You can even pre-order kosher meals!

Take a New Year's cruise. Count down and count your blessings on the biggest night of the year with a special New Year’s Eve dinner followed by a midnight celebratory Champagne toast.

The Best Holiday Cruises — All Year Round

• Chinese New Year
• Valentine's Day
• Easter & Passover
• Mother's Day
• Father's Day

Mark the beginning of the Lunar New Year, with time–honored traditions for an immersive experience. Our Chinese New Year celebrations include symbolic red decorations that adorn the Piazza, mythological Lion Dancers thrill spectators, and much more.

Love, life’s sweetest reward, is celebrated with hearts and flowers and special touches throughout the ship. Onboard, you can make a card for your sweetheart, send a singing telegram, renew your vows, watch themed Movies Under the Stars, and so much more.

Celebrations of hope and springtime abound during this holy period. Onboard, you can participate in a Seder service, sit down with family for a traditional Easter dinner, and enjoy special visits from the Easter Bunny, and a candy egg hunt.

What’s the #1 travel gift moms want? A Mother's day cruise. Celebrate and pamper mom onboard with a relaxing spa treatment, a specially-themed balcony breakfast, complimentary sparkling wine and a rose at dinner, and much more.

Watch the big game on our giant Movies Under the Stars screen, complete with grilled burgers and craft beers on deck. Treat your special dad to a hand–cut steak cooked to order at the Crown Grill. Celebrate the day with a whiskey tasting at the Wheelhouse Bar. It will be a Father’s Day he never forgets!

Halloween on a Princess cruise ship promises more treats than tricks. Delight in spooky décor while carving pumpkins in the Princess Piazza. Ghostly grown-ups can attend our Halloween Fright Night Party, while little pumpkins can enjoy a costume parade, scavenger hunt, and, of course, lots of candy!

Gifting for someone special?   It's easier than ever! Buy gifts online for anyone sailing with Princess.

Already booked with Princess?   Login to Cruise Personalizer to buy a gift for yourself or others on your booking .

To speak to a member of our Celebrations support team,  call 1-855-500-7690

#PrincessCruises Celebration Moments

View photos from our guests that capture their onboard celebrations.

You May Also Like

Romance sets sail.

Discover romantic moments at sea

Food & Dining

Award-winning and made from scratch

Wedding Cruises

Tie The Knot with help from Princess Cruises

• CruiseMapper

Christmas and New Year Cruises

Christmas cruises 2023, 2024, 2025, 2026 new year's eve.

At CruiseMapper's "Christmas New Year Cruise" hub you can compares all major cruise companies' December Holiday offers as itineraries and prices. Our Xmas cruise finder allows searching by departure ports, countries and company, also allowing you to choose vessel type (ocean ship or riverboat) and a preferable call port along the itinerary.

Christmas & New Year Cruise Finder

All our Christmas and New Year cruise schedules show only itineraries and prices per person. These are indicative fares on the ships' lowest category staterooms. All rates are based on double occupancy (twin share) and don't include cruise lines or travel agencies promotions, group booking rates or any other special offers and discounts.

Cruise lines

AIDA Cruises

AmaWaterways

Ambassador Cruise Line

American Cruise Lines

American Queen Voyages

Arosa Cruises

Avalon Waterways

Azamara Cruises

Carnival Cruise Line

Celebrity Cruises

Celestyal Cruises

Costa Cruises

CroisiEurope

Crystal Cruises

Disney Cruise Line

Emerald Cruises

Fred Olsen Cruise Lines

Hapag-Lloyd Cruises

Holland America

Hurtigruten

Lindblad Expeditions

Marella Cruises

MSC Cruises

Norwegian Cruise Line

Oceania Cruises

P&O Cruises

Phoenix Reisen

Ponant Cruises

Princess Cruises

Regent Seven Seas Cruises

River Cruises

Royal Caribbean

Saga Cruises

Scenic Cruises

Seabourn Cruises

Silversea Cruises

Small Cruise Lines

TUI Cruises

Viking Cruises

Windstar Cruises

Christmas and New Year cruises offer the perfect combination of the three best buys - holiday, travel, vacation. Combined Christmas (Xmas) and New Year's Eve (NYE) voyages are operated with longer and usually roundtrip itineraries. Depending on shipping company and destination, Xmas-NYE itineraries vary from 4-5 days (short breaks) to 7-10 days and even up to a month, extending from early or mid-December through early January.

All CruiseMapper's Xmas pages have themed photos similar to the one above. These are called "Christmas tree worms" (Spirobranchus giganteus / translated "giant spiral gills"). Aka "bristle worms", these are tube-building marine species living on coral reefs in tropical ocean waters. Each of these worms produces two multicolored spirals, which are apparatus for feeding and respiration. These beautiful creatures are CruiseMapper's choice of "Christmas Cruise" photos because of their most obvious "Xmas-themed" look.

Christmas Holidays cruise travel destinations

The list of most popular Xmas-NYE ship travel destinations starts always with the sunny Caribbean, followed by the Mexican Riviera and Hawaii (from California), Australia and New Zealand. Another interesting and relatively inexpensive destination is Europe's Mediterranean, where during winter you can enjoy guided tours in large port cities with much fewer tourists compared to the summer season.

Christmas Markets are the best-selling European river voyages. Europe's unique Christmas Markets experiences feature shopping (for handcrafted gifts and locally made souvenirs) and traditional food and beverages. Spain's Canaries and Portugal's Madeira are also immensely popular in December and among the best-priced/cheap choices for cruising during Christmas and New Year, with various roundtrips from UK ports and inside the Canaries. A signature experience is Madeira's/Port Funchal's fireworks show on New Year's Eve.

South American voyages during Xmas-NYE can be booked mainly through the Italian companies MSC and Costa . In South Africa are offered departures from Durban and Cape Town. In Arabia you can book seasonally Dubai -homeported ships, mainly by AIDA and MSC.

There are many "international" ships deployed in Southeast Asia (homeported in Hong Kong and Singapore), but for foreigners that market is with fly-cruise deals (inclusive of flights from the USA, Australia, Europe). The list of larger company ships leaving roundtrip from Caribbean ports (Puerto Rico, Barbados, Dominicana, Guadeloupe) includes AIDA, TUI, Marella UK, Carnival, RCI, MSC, P&O UK.

Australia and New Zealand itineraries are mainly roundtrips from Sydney NSW and Auckland NZ. Ships deployed in the South Pacific visit ports in New Caledonia, Vanuatu, Fiji, Tasmania. The list of major companies in this market includes P&O Australia, Carnival, Royal Caribbean, Princess.

Major companies for Christmas cruises in Europe are the UK-based Cunard, Saga, P&O and Marella, departing mainly from Southampton (roundtrip). Other options are TUI and AIDA (departures from Canary Islands), and MSC and Costa (leaving roundtrip from Italian ports). Best brands for Christmas river cruises in Europe are Viking, Avalon, AmaWaterways, Uniworld.

Christmas Holiday cruise travel deals

Xmas-NYE mini cruises are Holiday travel specials that are pretty hard to find. Offered mainly in Europe, the roundtrips are mainly from large ports in England ( Dover , Southampton , Hull ). The best chance to book Xmas short breaks is via P&O Ferries UK . The company owns numerous large-sized Ro-Pax ships/cruiseferries with regularly scheduled crossings from UK ports (to France, Holland, Belgium) visited almost exclusively as shopping and Christmas Market destinations. In the Caribbean, mini-cruises are operated from Florida ports and visit The Bahamas and Mexico.

Fly-cruise deals provide discounted airfare (one-way or roundtrip) mostly to Caribbean homeports with airports (Barbados, Puerto Rico, Dominicana, Guadeloupe), the USA ( Miami Florida ), as well as Mediterranean's largest port cities ( Barcelona , Rome-Civitavecchia , Venice , Marseille ).

Florida to Caribbean itineraries visit The Bahamas ( Nassau , the private islands CocoCay/Royal Caribbean , Half Moon Cay/Carnival , Castaway Cay/Disney , Ocean Cay/MSC , Great Stirrup Cay/NCL ), also Jamaica, Puerto Rico, BVI. Caribbean fly-cruises from the UK to Barbados (Southampton-Bridgetown-Southampton) are P&O UK's top-seller during the December Holidays.

Each year, the Cunard 's RMS Queen Mary 2 offers Christmas and New Year roundtrip voyages from NYC New York to Canada and Caribbean.

The main disadvantages of cruising over Xmas-NYE are the limited availability and higher cost. This is simply the most profitable time for all companies, and they want to get the most out of it. Booking early is essential to secure your Holiday vacation - both as itinerary/stateroom type and pricing. Early Fall (October) is a good time to book. Early booking savings are generous, plus this is the time when the brands start promoting their holiday discounts. However, to be 100% sure, booking a year in advance is highly recommended.

European Christmas Market River Cruises

"Christmas Market" themed cruises are Europe's best Holiday travel deals. They offer ship travel on the largest European rivers and major inland waterways (Rhine, Danube, Main, Moselle), as well as France's rivers (Seine, Seone, Rhone, Garonne, Dordogne, Loire) and navigational canals (via hotel barges).

All larger-sized European riverboats dock in big cities and visit some of the most popular ports in France, Germany, Holland, Belgium, Austria, Hungary, Czechia. Deals are generally all-inclusive - pre- and post-cruise hotel stays, ship transfers, coach travel (tours), gratuities, staterooms with luxury amenities, gourmet meals (European wines and beers during lunch and dinner), 24-hour specialty tea-coffee bar with snacks, complimentary city tours (guided by English-speaking experts), themed onboard enrichment and live entertainment (by resident pianist and local performers), complimentary use of walking sticks and bicycles. Some deals are also inclusive of international flights.

Another reason to choose Christmas Market travel is the opportunity to see some of Europe's largest cities in their glorious snow-cover. Unlike the full-body contact USA Christmas shopping frenzy, Europeans prefer shopping at open-air markets, opposed to shopping malls. Christmas Market cruising in Europe perfectly combines luxury travel with traditional Xmas shopping. Dining options ashore feature the seasonal specialties apple cider, mulled wine (warm spiced wine), sweet gingerbread, all kinds of handmade sweets, chocolate and cookies, perfectly cold beer and steaming hot sausages.

Next are listed itineraries that visit some of the best European Christmas Market cities.

Rhine River

• from Basel to Kehl, Mannheim, Mainz, Cologne
• from Cologne to Koblenz, Rudesheim am Rhein, Germersheim, Kehl, Basel

From Kehl (Germany) is visited Strasbourg (France) - located just across the river.

Danube River

• from Budapest to Vienna, Krems, Linz, Passau
• from Munich to Passau, Linz, Wachau Valley, Vienna, Bratislava, Budapest
• from Munich to Passau, Linz, Grein, Melk, Vienna, Bratislava, Budapest

From Linz can be visited Salzburg and Oberndorf.

• from Nurnberg to Bamberg, Kitzingen, Wurzburg, Wertheim, Frankfurt
• from Frankfurt to Wurzburg, Kitzingen, Bamberg, Nurnberg

From Wurzburg can be visited Rothenburg (Germany's best-preserved walled city).

Rhine-Main-Danube Canal

• from Vienna to Durnstein, Linz, Passau, Regensburg, Roth, Nurnberg
• from Nurnberg to Regensburg, Deggendorf, Wachau Valley, Vienna
• from Nurnberg to Regensburg, Linz, Wachau Valley, Vienna, Budapest

From Deggendorf can be visited Theresienthal (famous for its Glass Museum)

The following table shows exemplary Christmas Market cruisetours as itineraries (departure / arrival ports), companies/brands, voyage themes, land tours/activities.

Note: At our Finder (top-page), when searching for river cruises, be sure to select "River" in the "Ship Type" box.

Best Christmas Markets in Europe

CruiseMapper's review of the best Christmas Markets in Europe is about the best European "stall shopping" destinations during the holidays. Our list includes the Xmas markets in Barcelona , Brussels , Budapest , Copenhagen , Dublin , Edinburgh , Krakow , Lille , London , Prague , Stockholm , Tallinn , Valkenburg , Verona , and Vienna , plus the German Christmas markets (Nuremberg, Dresden, Berlin, Munich).

• Traditionally, Christmas Markets originate in Europe but now pop up all over the world and provide a celebratory atmosphere to enjoy promo shopping. Many holiday shoppers prefer to order gifts online to avoid crowds, but shopping in Europe during the winter holidays is a unique experience.
• Europe's Christmas markets are also a social experience as people gather after work to enjoy a nice meal, mulled wine, hot chocolate, cold beer with sausages, enjoy the company of others. Traveling during Christmas Holidays is an innovative way to celebrate and spend quality time with family and friends.
• "Christmas Market" travel features romantic city tours that for enjoying themed decorations, happy people, winter walks, traditional treats and beverages, cold beer, hot sausages, spiced/mulled wine.

Europe's winter is as energizing as it is cold. Town squares are lit up and decorated. Not so many European companies operate river voyages during winter. In Europe, boats navigate on the largest tributaries of Danube, Rhine and Rhone during spring, summer and fall. However, only several boats of major companies (like Avalon, AMA, Viking) offer Xmas-themed voyages - and until January 1st.

The largest European Christmas Markets are open typically between November 25th and December 24th.

SPAIN - Barcelona Christmas Market "Fira de Santa Llucia" (Plaza de la Seu)

Dating from 1786, Barcelona's traditional Christmas fair now has expanded to 300 and more stalls in front of the Cathedral, selling a variety of handcrafted Christmas gifts and decorations, along with poinsettias, mistletoe and Christmas trees. Always on sale is the most popular figure for Nativity scenes - curious Catalan figure of caganer (crapper) - small figure bending over steaming turd with trousers around ankles. Children line up on the giant caga tio - huge smiley-faced log pooping out pressies when beaten viciously by stick. There is also Nativity scene contest, exhibitions and musical parades, including the Placa Sant Jaume life-size Nativity scene. Fira de Santa Llucia is an authentic Spanish Christmas market, so you'll have difficulties to find bratwurst and gluhwein here but the many restaurants around and festive atmosphere will make up for that.

• Best for: Originally. You won't find mulled wine and bratwurst here - over 300 stalls sell nativity scenes, craft and instruments.
• Eat this: No food here! You'll have to head over to La Boqueria for a simple of Barcelona's traditional festive cuisine. Try Sopa de galets-a soup cantaining pasta shells stuffed with meat.
• Buy this: A Caganer. These small nativity scene figurines, squatting with trousers dropped, are cheeky in more ways than one.
• Skip this: Ice skating at Plaza Cataluna. Check out the spectaculap Christmas light show at Torre Agbar instead.
• When is open: 30th Nov-23 Dec.

BELGIUM - Brussels Christmas Market "Winter Wonders" (Place Ste Catherine)

Brussels Christmas market Winter Wonders with its spectacular ice rink and light show is well known and quite popular. Through the 2-km course around the historic town centre, Brussels' Winter Wonders offers unique ambiance, fairy-tale lighting, delicious dishes, quality activities, and discovery of other cultures during the event. Each year, a different guest is invited to set up market-within-the-market and share some its own traditions. Some of the past invitees are Lapland, Quebec, Provence and Tallinn. Brussels' Christmas market was founded in 2002. The theatrics include sound-and-light nightly show on Grand Place as well as a market surrounding Bourse (Stock Exchange) along Place Sainte Catherine. The big wheel illuminates with 18,000 lights, and 200-ft-long skating rink is great. Try the traditional caricoles (peppery winkles or whelks), Belgian fluffy waffles and fries, seasonal croustillons (doughnuts), and two most welcome Belgium's additions to world cuisine: powerful beer and fine chocolates.

• Best for: Food. A wide range of European foods are found at Winter Wonderland's 240 stalls, providing nourishment for those determined to waik the full 2 kms the market stretches along.
• Eat this: Moules and Frites. Mussels and chips is great with a glass of one of Belgium's famous Trappist beers.
• Buy this: Beer. Head to Delirium Cafe-it holds the Guinnes World Record for most beers in a bar-sample their offerings and take home one or two bottles of your favorites.
• Skip this: Manneken Pis (the city's famous small statue of a boy peeing). Check out the 360-degree sound and light show around the Christmas tree in Grand Place instead.
• When is open: 29 Nov-5th Jan.

Other great Christmas markets in Belgium are Grote Markt in Antwerp and Bruges Christmas Market. The city of Bruges features spectacular medieval architecture, and its Christmas Market is famous for the erected in the Markt ice rink. Kids love the Snow and Ice Sculpture Festival, a 5-minute walk from Christmas Market.

HUNGARY - Budapest Christmas Market "Vorosmarty Square"

Located on Vorosmarty Square in Pest district of Budapest, city's Christmas fair is great to experience traditional food of Hungary, live music and folk dances. The variety of hot drinks include hot chocolate punch and spicy hot apple juice, as well as the chance to try baked goods, like strudels, toki pompos (dough, oven-baked) and langos (fried bread with different toppings). This market has around 150 stalls, plenty of local culture and art, including puppet theatres. All products sold on Vorosmarty Square are traditionally handmade, with a guarantee by professional jury.

• Best for: Culture. Puppet shows,traditional music and folk dancing,all within the surrounds of Budapest's gorgeous baroque and neoclassical architecture.
• Eat this: Chimney cake, or Kurtoskalacs. Pastry Wrapped around a spit, baked over an open charcoal fire, and then sprinkled with cinnamon and sugar.
• Buy this: Matyo-patterned accessories. The ornate and colourful embroidery makes a great festive gift.
• Skip this: Gerbeaud House.Touristy, overcrowded and overpriced during the Christmas period.
• When is open: 15th Nov-31 Dec.

DENMARK - Copenhagen Christmas Market "Tivoli Gardens"

Tivoli Gardens Christmas market in Copenhagen features over 120,000 sparkling lights which illuminate the lake and flower gardens. Kids love this special Christmas market, set up in the amusement park. Enjoy the traditional wooden stalls full of gifts, Danish foods and crafts, theme park rides, firework festival, a roller-coaster, an ice rink, Santa Claus, Danish Christmas pixies... they really know the best way to celebrate Christmas in Denmark. Unlike most European cities, the atmosphere here is more authentically "Christmassy" and less commercial (maybe sub-zero temperatures are one of the reasons). The Russian theme is still going strong, although Nordic touches also have returned. The St. Basil's Cathedral replica remains, and the traditional Father Christmas is residing in 19th-century pantomime theatre. The gardens offer rollercoaster, ice rink, and theme park rides. Expect crowds as the market is based in the centre of capital and attracts a million visitors.

• Best for: Festive spirit. This centuries-old amusement park puts up a 1,000 Christmas trees, and rings its central lake-turned-ice-skating-rink with nine miles of bright lights to create a fantastic Christmas atmosphere.
• Eat this: Klejner. This fried pastry is ubiquitous in Denmark at Christmas. Wash it down with juleol, a dark, malted beer that's only available during the holiday season.
• Buy this: Knitwear. Get the classic Nordic look right from the source-not only will it make you super stylish, but it'll also keep you warm throughout the remainder of winter.
• Skip this: Tours. Instead, hop on a free bike and see Copenhagen's sights on two wheels.

IRELAND - Dublin Christmas Market "12 Days of Christmas" (Dockland)

Despite the fact it's one of the younger European Christmas markets, in 2010 the '12 Days of Christmas' in Dublin attracted the record number of 145,000 visitors. Stained glass, wooden toys, craft jewellery and artwork can be found at the regenerated Dublin Docklands. German themed and carol-singing bar, as well as the carousel, mean the relative newcomer is family crowd pleaser.

• Best for: Variety. from French crepes to African artisans and Brazilian rock bands, visitors to Dublin are really spoiled for choice.
• Eat this: Check out the Fire and Food stall for juicy flame-grilled irish steak burgers and spiced apple punch.
• Buy this: Stained glass. Ireland has some of the world's most spectacular stained glass pieces.
• Skip this: Shopping in the CHQ building. Instead, walk along the River Liffey and check out the shops on Henry Street - it's more interesting and less crowded than Grafton Street.
• When is open: 12th-23rd Dec.

SCOTLAND - Edinburgh Christmas Market "Princes Street Gardens"

If you fancy an original and Scottish Christmas this year, don't miss the opportunity to visit Edinburgh Christmas market. It features the largest ice rink in Europe, stunning views from Ferris Wheel over Edinburgh Castle, Santa's train and Grotto, several choirs and shows. Every year, in Princes Street Gardens, Christmas comes to live with interesting rides and German Christmas Markets. You can find all customary Christmas goodies in the wooden chalets, along with handmade decorations and gifts. There's a good selection of craft items and food.

• Best for: The best thing about Edinburgh Christmas market is that it's open until the 5th of January and while markets in Germany tend to close by the 23rd of December, you can keep on Christmas fun in Edinburgh. Stay for Hogmanay, which is the absolute best New Year celebration in the world.
• Eat this: hot mulled wine and Christmas cookies.
• Buy this: a ride!
• When is open: 22nd Nov-5th Jan.

POLAND - Krakow Christmas Market "Rynek Glowny"

The Christmas market in Krakow takes place every year amid Old Town historic district, on city's Rynek Glowny central square. It starts in the last November days and lasts through the 26th of December or even longer, to the 6th of January sometimes. The wooden stands sell Christmas decorations and goodies, as well as delicious sweets. The open-air eateries feature mulled wine and hearty meals. There are additional attractions as folk dances, shows and concerts of carols.

• Best for: Tradition. Polish Christmas carols are centuries-old and the city's main square has hosted markets since the 13th century
• Eat this: Fried oscypek cheese. This salty sheep's milk cheese is breaded, friend and served with lingonberry compote.
• Buy this: Amber. Amber's a local specialty; you'll find a number of stalls run by locals selling beautiful jewelry crafted from golden, fossilised resin.
• Skip this: Wawel Castle. Instead, check out the entrance to the city's annual szopki competition.These elaborately decorated nativity scenes were introduced to Poland in the 13th century, representing one of Krakow's oldest and most distinct customs.
• When is open: 25th Nov-5th Jan.

FRANCE - Lille Christmas Market "Place Rihour"

Lille has great activities during holiday season - it's situated along the northern border of France and is capital of French Flanders. The whole town around Christmas market is covered with huge garlands' crown. Lille's primary market is on Place Rihour, in 80 wooden chalets with extraordinary gift ideas, Christmas decorations, nativity figurines and festive food. The nearby Grand Place features 50-m high Big Wheel which lights up the square and provides a great view of the whole city.

• Best for: Lights. Lille is illuminated with thousands of fairy lights and le Grand Roue, the market's Ferris wheel, is the dramatic centerpiece of the elaborate light display.
• Eat this: Gaufre fouree/Originating in Lille. This is a delectable oval-shaped waffle stuffed with chocolate or brown sugar.
• Buy this: Chuque du nord. A coffee-flavored candy filled with soft caramel typical of the region, presented in a red and white striped wrapper.
• Skip this: Ferris wheel ride.Instead, navigate 17th-century cobblestone streets on foot and explore the beautiful architecture, statues and the palace in Vieux-Lille.
• When is open: 20th Nov-30 Dec.

ENGLAND - London Christmas Market "Winter Wonderland"

London features several yearly Christmas markets and ice rinks. There are great activities and markets on either side of Thames during holiday season in addition to London's Christmas decorations. Southbank Centre Christmas Market offers 80 wooden cabins that sell gifts, bratwurst and gluhwein to enjoy while strolling along the waterfront. Hyde Park's Winter Wonderland is probably the best-known Christmas market in London with more than 200 chalets featuring handmade decorations and gifts. Food and drink selections at Winter Wonderland are the most extensive, with options that include a Bavarian village, outdoor fire pit, even a bar modeled after alpine ski lodge. The carnival rides are in addition to food and shopping. Another option is the Skate rink at Somerset House Ice Rink, with DJs spinning tunes after dark.

• Best for: 60-m (197-feet) high Observation Wheel and the largest ice rink in Britain
• Eat this: mince pies, roasted chestnuts (with mulled wine, of course)
• When is open: 20th Nov-24th Dec

Other Christmas markets in England we could recommend are: in Birmingham - the "Second City" of UK - Frankfurt Christmas market, running for twelve years already. You can sip on hot mulled wine and German lager amongst the crowds, buy fresh pretzels, delicious hot chocolate and handmade gifts. No matter what time, you can join the crowds of festive people - folk music and laughter fill the air.

CZECH REPUBLIC - Prague Christmas Market "Wenceslas Square"

Prague's Christmas markets take place in Wenceslas Square and Old Town Square. The markets feature the expected holiday decor and wooden toys, but they also offer Czech specialties, like blacksmith's wares, ceramics and glasswork. Food is slightly different from German standards, although blood sausages, grog and gingerbread are offered, but there are vendors with corn on cob and trdelnik (dough cooked with sugar and cinnamon). If you're in town around 20th December, you'll see carp frequently offered - dining on it is Prague's Christmas Eve tradition. Visitors seek for unusual drinks and food rather than decoration and gifts - in the week leading to Vanoce (Christmas) holiday, streets sport enormous water tubs filled with carp (Czech Christmas dish). Don't forget to try the traditional Czech beverage grog and honey liquor. Around 5 p.m. every night the Christmas tree lights are switched on and provide a stunning sight. Dressed in traditional costumes carol singers all around from Czech Republic complete the enchanting market.

• Best for: After-parties. Prague is already popular for its beer and ambiance. Throw in mulled wine and the Christmas spirit, and a merry time is had by all.
• Eat this: Fish soup, or rybi polevka. This typical Christmas dish will definitely keep you warm while you explore.
• Buy this: Handmade puppets dressed in traditional Czech garb. The craft of puppet-making has been passed down countless generations.
• Skip this: Nativity scene exhibitions. Instead, climb up Prasna Brana, the Powder Tower, for a beautiful view of Prague all dressed up for Christmas.
• When is open: 30th Nov-12th Jan.

SWEDEN - Stockholm Christmas Market "Skansen's"

Skansen's Christmas market is ultra-traditional - it has been held since 1903 annually. Skansen is like outdoor cultural museum, it's historic, so you'll see how a Christmas market during the 1800's looked in Sweden. Homemade jams, mustards, sausages, bread, cakes and marzipan, as well as traditional handicrafts (embroidery, leather, holiday decorations). Join with kids the variety of family-friendly activities. Skansen is on Djurgarden Island. Regular ferries link from Slussen.

• Eat this: Christmas fare such as eel, salmon, smoked sausage, pepparkakor (gingersnaps), saffron buns and glogg (mulled wine).
• Buy this: Look out for craft products, hand-dipped candles and traditional Christmas ornaments that are made of straw
• When is open: 24th Nov-16th Dec (only during weekends).

ESTONIA - Tallinn Christmas Market "Rotermann Square"

Tallinn Christmas market originated in 2001 and is not the biggest market, but has lots of charm featuring the most important Estonian Christmas tree surrounded by traditional Christmas stalls. Tallinn Christmas market is set among cobbled streets and medieval squares. With a handful of stalls around Old Town Hall Square - Raekoja plats, selling hats, sweaters, gloves, Estonian arts and crafts, the market is very charming. Tallinn's Raekoja plats is the spot where the first public Christmas tree was put on display in Europe. Fun holiday activities include outdoor skating rink, jazz and classical concerts, illuminated snow sculptures, and Santa's house where kids post Christmas list and feed baby reindeer.

• Best for: Setting. With blankets of snow on market stall roots, medieval architecture, and a tall, lavishly decorated Christmas tree at the center of it all, Tallinn looks like something straight out of a fairy tale.
• Eat this: Blood sausage. A lot more appetizing than they look, these traditional Estonian Christmas treats makes for a tasty snack. Try the Glogi - Estonian mulled wine.
• Buy this: Candles. Estonia is known for its spas. Hand-poured, all-natural scented candles are a cheap and easy way of recreating the relaxing atmosphere of an Estonoan spa at home.
• When: 22nd Nov-8th Jan

HOLLAND - Valkenburg Christmas Market

The Netherlands also have long traditions of Christmas markets, but Valkenburg Christmas market is the most unique. Each year during Christmas holidays, Valkenburg transforms in real Christmas town and features Christmas markets in caves. Enjoy the usual Christmas activities, but also see the Christmas parade which is twice a week with Santa Clause himself. As visitors wander around the cave, they meet tables full of displays from local artisans. Every year they show a unique theme - the scenes are set up throughout market and tell stories related to the theme. The cave is worth a visit with mural paintings throughout. It looks more spectacular with holiday lights and festive decorations. Velvet, Wilhelmina and Municipal caves sound intriguing even on their own.

• Best for: Unique themes.
• Buy this: The typical stalls offer all you would find at other Christmas markets: beautiful crafts, delicious food, and plenty of holiday decorations.
• When is open: 24 Nov-23 Dec.

ITALY - Verona Christmas Market "Piazza Dante"

The German-style Piazza dei Signori Christmas market in Verona sells german specialty foodstuffs and handmade items. Sip vin brule on a cold night, or eat specialty bread and wurst while the kids visit babbo natale and whisper christmas wishes. Around 60 exhibitors usually offer their crafts and products, glass Christmas decorations, ceramic and wood creations, as well as original gift ideas. Piazza dei Signori (known also as Piazza Dante), is accompanied by typical flavours and smells of Christmas specialties as mulled wine, delicious sandwiches and sweets with typical Nuremberg sauerkraut and sausages.

• Best for: Charm. The Veronese market is small and intimate, but still has plenty of choice. Look out for the giant Christmas star falling from the adjacent Roman Arena.
• Eat this: Pandoro. Originating from Verona, the loaf is a delicious sweet bread shaped like an 8-point star, dusted with icing sugar so it looks like the Italian Alps during Christmas.
• Buy this: Antique style, handmade ornaments for your Christmas tree.
• Skip this: Juliet's balcony. Explore the Roman Arena instead - every Christmas the spectacular historic venue plays host to an international axhibition of nativity scenes.
• When is open: 23rd Nov-21st Dec.

AUSTRIA - Vienna Christmas Market "Christkindlmarkts"

Germany has long Christmas markets tradition for centuries like the ones in Frankfurt, Dresden, Munich and Bautzen. However, Vienna is a forerunner with the traditional yearly "December market", dating back to 1294. Today Vienna features about 20 Christmas markets yearly and Christkindlmarkt in front of City Hall is the most famous. Besides the wooden cabins, traditional for Christmas, it features Christmas stories, special post office, and International Advent Caroling. More than 150 stalls sell Christmas decorations, gifts, hot chestnuts and gluhwein (mulled wine). Two other Christmas venues that are uite popular are the Freyung Viennese Christmas Market, which is traditional, selling handicrafts, and in front of Schonbrunn Palace - the Christmas Market, which offers an imperial backdrop and also hosts New Year's market - open until January 1.

• Best for: Short attention spans. In Vienna, there are at least four major markets with different themes.
• Eat this: Maroni (roasted chestnuts) and Weinachtspunsch. Enjoy a packet of the open drum-roasted snacks with a warm punch made with tea, red wine, rum, spices and fruit juices.
• Buy this: Mozartkugel. Originating in Vienna, these traditional chocolates are unique for their pistachio marzipan and nougat centres, individually wrapped in a portrait of Mozart.
• Skip this: The market in Rathausplatz. Instead, explore the Museum Quartier where the Winter Village is. It's six ice pavilions, light projections, stalls and museums, are hugely popular with Vienna's hip crowd. Don't miss Mumok-Vienna's modern art museum.
• When is open: 15th Nov-24 Dec (dates differ at every market).

Christmas is a social affair for the Viennese. People meet up for spicy Christmas cookies, chestnuts and Punsch or Gluhwein (mulled wine). The principal hotspots are:

• Altwiener Christkindlmarkt (23 Nov-23 Dec) - in front of Salzburg cathedral; bringing cosier arty feel with stalls that sell handmade wares. The looming Hohensalzburg Fortress and baroque architecture give a fairy tale feeling. As Salzburg is the birthplace of Mozart, it has an outstanding musical tradition - there are choral performances and you may to hear some of the best students in Europe perform. Another musical claim to fame was also born in Salzburg: Joseph Mohr, the lyricist behind the most famous Christmas carol "Silent Night".
• Rathausplatz market (17 Nov-24 Dec) - with tacky stalls, but Rathausplatz is worth a visit for the glimpse of Advent windows on decorated by local artists Town Hall, and the tree illuminations in park.
• Schonbrunn Palace market (24 Nov-26 Dec) - spectacular backdrop with more upmarket stalls.
• Spittelberg market (15 Nov-23 Dec) - set in cobbled streets between Siebensterngasse and Burggasse in the 7th district, one of the loveliest. You can find goods not offered elsewhere.

Best Christmas Markets in Germany

Germany is well known for the variety of beautiful Christmas markets - from the popular Cologne market to the small one in Monschau. However, the most famous one, without any doubt is Nuremberg Christkindlesmarkt.

Nuremberg Christmas Market "Christkindlesmarkt"

Dating from 1600s, the Nuremberg Christmas market occupies Main Square under Frauenkirche (Church of Our Lady). Christkind opens Christmas market the Friday before Advent every year with an impressive ceremony. This market has long tradition and you'll find all original things here - gluhwein, bavarian bratwurst and hand-made gifts. The stalls, with candy-striped awnings, sell all traditional handcrafts, including carved wooden toys and "smoker" man (carved figure holding smoking incense inside). The horse-drawn stagecoach will take you on a ride over the medieval old city's cobblestone streets. On weekends, the Nuremberg market is a mass of people who huddle together to stay warm. But during the week, explore the Christkindlesmarkt in tranquility, eat the local sausages (three in a roll) and drink gluhwein (hot mulled wine).

• Best for: Atmosphere. Nurembergers know how to put on a Christmas market - they've been doing it for nearly 400 years!
• Eat this: Nuremberg bratwurst. Try it with mustard and kraut and wash down with a boot-shaped mug of Gluhwein.
• Buy this: Prune men. These dried plum figures were first created as children's toys during the Thirty Years'War. Found in a multitude of sizes and characters, they're now one of the most popular gifts to bring home from the Nuremberg Christmas market.
• Skip this: Gingerbread from the market stalls. Instead, head to one of the local bakeries where you'll find a delicious selection of fresh lebkuchen (cookies made from gingerbread).
• When is open: 29th Nov-24th Dec

Dresden Christmas Market "Striezelmarkt"

The popular Christmas market in Dresden transforms the city into winter wonderland on River Elbe. The city of Dresden is filled with festivities and sparkling lights. Traditionally known as 'Striezelmarkt', Dresden Christmas market is the oldest in Germany, as it dates back to 1434. It's named after city's famous culinary creation - Christmas Stollen, sweet fruitcake in the shape of loaf, dusted with icing sugar. The highlight of Dresden Christmas annual market is the Stollen Festival, which is held in December, on the second Sunday - a giant Stollen weighing 3,000 kg is carried to the market where it's ceremonially sliced and then distributed to the visitors. The parade is presided by "Miss Cake" (Stollenmadchen). Dresden Christmas market is old-fashioned and pretty, with more than 250 stalls that sell traditional wares and festive arts and crafts. Regional vendors display pottery and indigo-printed textiles from Lusatia; wooden ornaments from Erzgebirge mountain villages; paper advent stars, wickerwork and Plauen lace from Herrnhut.

Many other markets can be found around Dresden, and each of them has its own attractions and intimate flair. The popular Frauenkirche, Loschwitz, and especially the charming Residenzschloss Christmas markets are worth mentioning.

• Best for: Tradition and original displays - the Christmas market in Dresden is the place to see the tallest Christmas pyramid in the world - the stunning 14 meters high.
• Eat this: Christmas Stollen, of course!
• Buy this: hand-blown delicate glass baubles from Lauscha; hand-made Saxony ceramics in bright blue and white.
• When is open: 27th Nov-24 Dec.

Berlin Christmas Market "Kaiser Wilhelm"

Berlin's most popular Christmas Market is Kaiser Wilhelm Gedachtniskirche (receiving ~2 million visitors annually). Tourists visit for the jewelry, artworks and decorations on sale as well as to indulge in the cliched seasonal treats - mulled wine and chestnuts.

When is open: 24 Nov-1 Jan.

Munich Christmas Market "Marienplatz"

Besides being Bavaria's Oktoberfest destination, Munich also has a huge downtown Christmas Market (Marienplatz) surrounded by an enormous tree with 2500+ lights. Tourists can find traditional Bavarian gifts - wood carvings or gingerbread (called lebkuchen), while sipping on beer or gluhwein (mulled warmed wine).

Throughout the city there are smaller markets - one unique is Manger Market, selling the components for those who try to build authentic manger.

• Search Please fill out this field.
• Manage Your Subscription
• Give a Gift Subscription
• Newsletters
• Sweepstakes

7 Cruise Lines Offering Festive Holiday Cruises in 2023

Celebrate the festive season on the high seas with these Hanukkah, Christmas, and New Year's cruises.

Courtesy of Disney Cruise Line

As if never-ending shrimp and beautiful coastlines weren’t enticing enough, cruise lines go all out each winter for holiday celebrations. These special sailings bring cheer to the high seas with seasonal activities, festive decor, and even more delicious treats than usual. ‘Tis the season to indulge, after all. 

Whether you’re interested in dashing through the Caribbean Sea with Mickey Mouse on a Disney Christmas cruise or embarking on a lavish and intimate experience aboard a European river cruise , there’s something for every travel style and budget. Here are seven of the best cruise lines for holiday cruises in 2023.

Viking Cruises 

Courtesy of Viking

Viking Cruises, a Switzerland-based luxury cruise line , is known for the distinct modern touches it brings to sailings. The brand is known for its river cruises, which offer meticulous service and attention to detail on a fleet of small ships (typically 200 guests or fewer) — and these intimate voyages are extra blissful during the holidays.

Viking offers a number of European Christmas-market cruises that combine culture-centric sightseeing with festive spirit. Onboard you can enjoy live performances, regional specialties, tree trimming, and freshly baked yuletide cookies and cakes. See the City of Light lit up for the season as you glide through Paris on the Seine, or follow a two-day tour of Berlin with a voyage along the Elbe to Prague. If an American holiday is more your style, opt for one of Viking's Mississippi River cruises with highlights like Creole dining in New Orleans and from-the-water views of nearby historic estates all aglow for the season. 

Disney Cruise Line

Disney Cruise Line takes magic to an entirely new level during its holiday sailings. The line's Very Merrytime Cruises depart from ports in Florida, California, and Texas and head to destinations ranging from the Bahamas to western Mexico — all with a flurry of holiday festivities along the way. Merrytime ships are transformed with festive decor (including a 24-foot Christmas tree), and offer a range of seasonal activities and entertainment.

Beloved Disney characters dress in holiday attire for meet-and-greets, and Santa Claus makes appearances on most sailings. Cruises visiting Castaway Cay , Disney’s private island, offer even more festive fun, as the Bahamian paradise is decked out for the season with a Christmas tree and faux-snow flurries. The best part? This is all in addition to Disney Cruise Line's plentiful year-round perks .

Norwegian Cruise Line

Courtesy of Norwegian Cruise Line

With sailings to six different continents, Norwegian Cruise Line gives guests plenty of options for a relaxing holiday, wherever they want to spend it. In addition to Christmas cruises , Norwegian offers New Year, Hanukkah, and even Thanksgiving sailings. On the latter, guests can sit back and relax as someone else prepares an unforgettable turkey dinner. Now that is a reason to be thankful. 

Christmas cruises add awe-inspiring decor, live performances, and a slew of onboard activities, like an ugly sweater contest and themed holiday trivia. Whether you want to sip eggnog by the pool or attend an onboard Christmas-carol singalong, Norwegian delivers plenty of reasons to set sail this season. 

Princess Cruises

Courtesy of Princess Cruises

Whether you're sailing to sunny Sydney or the Mexican Riviera, Princess Cruises promises a forecast that includes a daily snowfall. Don’t worry — these flurries aren't real, but they have become a staple of the line's holiday celebrations.

After you’ve gotten in the spirit with your in-room virtual yule log, mingle with Santa Claus or be enchanted with holiday classics performed by the Yuletide Carolers. Guests can design keepsake ornaments or compete in a gingerbread house-making contest, while younger passengers can attend their very own holiday parties at the onboard youth centers. 

The line's Hanukkah sailings bring extra fun like menorah-lighting ceremonies, festive decor, themed crafts, and a reading of "Sammy Spider’s First Hanukkah." And if New Year's is your favorite winter holiday, Princess has cruises for that too, with special offerings including champagne-fueled New Year's Eve parties and big-screen telecasts of all the college football games happening on New Year's Day.

Adventures by Disney River Cruises

_ultraforma_/Getty Images

River cruises may have a reputation of appealing to older travelers, but people of all ages are discovering they're a great way to travel. Adventures by Disney offers a range of family-friendly river cruises thanks to a partnership with AmaWaterways, and in the wintertime, three of their itineraries focus on Europe's historic Christmas markets . On these journeys, you'll glide along the Danube or Rhine rivers, making stops in countries like Germany, Austria, and France. Choose a Rhine voyage to see the canals of Amsterdam lit up for the holidays or a Danube trip featuring a shore excursion to a festive outdoor ice-skating rink in the heart of Vienna. No matter which itinerary you select, all meals are included, and you can partake in onboard activities such as gingerbread cookie decorating and a mulled wine tasting. 

Courtesy of Cunard Line

A sophisticated British cruise line, Cunard takes an elevated approach to the holidays. Here, champagne is served in elegant crystal, and afternoon tea is accompanied by stollen and other traditional European Christmas cakes. Soak up the splendor of the onboard gingerbread village or sip eggnog as you enjoy deckside traditions like Christmas carolers, mince pies, and visits from Santa. 

After you gawk at the stunning Christmas tree in the Grand Lobby, you can visit the onboard luxury shops (like Liberty of London, Garrard jewelers, and more) to pick up last-minute gifts for your loved ones. Itineraries include the line's famous transatlantic crossings on the Queen Mary 2 in addition to other regional journeys across the globe, from Australia and New Zealand to the Caribbean and the Canary Islands.

Royal Caribbean

Courtesy of Royal Caribbean International

From the moment you step aboard one of the line's winter cruises, Royal Caribbean kicks the holidays into overdrive. Every December sailing comes with Christmas and Hanukkah programming built in, so you can enjoy Royal Caribbean's unique brand of holiday cheer on more than 650 itineraries around the world. These voyages get the entire family involved with a range of activities, like gingerbread decorating classes and an ugly sweater party. There are special Christmas menus and a cookies-and-milk corner, plus holiday classics shown on the poolside movie screen.

The traditional lighting of the ship’s massive tree has become a mainstay of the celebrations, while many can’t get enough of the annual holiday-themed version of their famous Bottomless Galley Brunch.  Have fun and know you’re doing good by participating in a special walk for polar bears on the ship’s deck in support of the World Wildlife Fund’s Arctic program. 

Related Articles

Protect Your Trip »

The 10 most festive christmas cruises for 2023-2024.

Set sail for the holidays on your next cruise vacation.

The Most Festive Christmas Cruises

Courtesy of American Queen Voyages

These festive cruises are full of activities, food and destinations to make your holiday special.

If you're ready for a break from holiday traditions and family gatherings at home, consider booking a Christmas cruise. What makes a better present than the chance to leave all the planning, cooking, cleaning and decorating behind – and celebrate the holidays in beautiful destinations in the U.S., the Caribbean or other countries around the globe?

If you're dreaming of a white Christmas, you can book a festivity-filled river cruise along Europe's iconic waterways and bundle up in your winter gear to explore the Christmas markets in the snow. If you prefer sunshine and warm temperatures, celebrate the holidays in an exotic locale, sailing crystal-clear turquoise waters and relaxing on white sand beaches surrounded by palm trees.

Whether you prefer to stay close to home or jet off for a bucket list adventure, one of these cruises may just be the perfect gift to celebrate your holidays in style.

Book a Christmas cruise on  GoToSea , a service of U.S. News.

Hallmark Channel Christmas Cruise

Put your name on the waiting list for November 2024 if you want to set sail on what Hallmark is touting as the "jolliest vacation ever." The Hallmark Channel – known for its year-round holiday-themed programming with Christmas in July, Countdown to Christmas and Christmas Fridays – will host the first-ever Hallmark Channel Christmas Cruise sailings in November 2024 from Miami to the Bahamas . Lucky fans of the television channel will travel with their favorite Hallmark stars on one of two four-night cruises on Norwegian Cruise Line 's Norwegian Gem during the 2024 holiday season.

Highlights of the Hallmark Channel Christmas Cruise include photo opportunities and panels to meet the stars. Attend Christmas craft workshops or tastings with Hallmark's winemaker – the wines have names like Jingle (cabernet sauvignon) and Joy (sauvignon blanc). Guests can also look forward to "carol-oke" singalongs, cookie decorating, an ugly sweater contest and a world premiere viewing of a new Hallmark Channel Christmas movie.

Read: The Top Party Cruises

AmaWaterways

Courtesy of AmaWaterways

AmaWaterways offers seven itineraries to visit the Christmas markets along the Rhine and Danube rivers – and to see the holiday splendor of Europe's grand cities, such as Vienna and Prague . Travelers can stroll through snow-dusted beautiful medieval squares and fairytale markets with chalet-inspired stalls, thousands of colorful lights, festive decorations, ice skating rinks, whimsical handmade gifts, Christmas carolers, carousels and more.

The eight-day Iconic Christmas Markets itinerary from Nuremberg, Germany, to Budapest, Hungary , features a visit to Christkindlesmarkt in Nuremberg, one of the world's oldest and most famous Christmas markets. Sip glühwein (hot mulled wine) and sample savory specialties like currywurst (curried sausages) and kartoffelpuffer (fried potato pancakes). Be sure to save room for sweet delights like schaumkuss, a chocolate-covered marshmallow, or lebkuchen, a traditional spiced cookie.

While on board the ship, guests can participate in festivities like tree-trimming, caroling and "Shoes for St. Nick." This European tradition encourages passengers to leave their slippers outside their stateroom door before bed. In the morning, they wake up to slippers filled with tasty treats like the children find in Europe on Saint Nicholas Day.

Celebrity Cruises

Courtesy of Celebrity Cruises

Celebrate Christmas Day in the Canary Islands and ring in the new year on the Mediterranean Sea during Celebrity Cruises ' Canaries, Morocco, Spain Holiday itinerary. The 13-day round-trip voyage from Barcelona embarks a few days before Christmas 2023 on Celebrity Infinity. It features eight ports of call, including the Moroccan cities of Casablanca and Tangier as well as Seville and Valencia in Spain.

On the ship, guests can revel in the joyous spirit of the season with festive Christmas trees, traditional holiday meals, themed shows and pop-ups, carolers, gingerbread winter villages, and even a visit from Santa. The onboard bars serve up holiday-inspired cocktails like candy cane and gingerbread martinis as well as other seasonal favorites, including spiked apple cider and classic mulled wine. On New Year's Eve, plan to join in the merriment with fellow cruisers during the big countdown bash.

If you want to cross South Africa off your list of must-visit destinations , consider spending Christmas and New Year's Eve sailing round-trip from Cape Town on Azamara 's 14-day South Africa Intensive Voyage. The 2023 voyage departs Dec. 21 on Azamara Pursuit and includes stops in Port Elizabeth, home to one of the densest elephant populations in the world, and Richards Bay, which is teeming with exotic wildlife and stunning landscapes.

Guests on board the holiday cruise will be treated to Christmas performances, including singalongs and carols performed by the crew. There will be special menus in the restaurants, holiday-themed buffets, religious services and a tree-trimming party. Festive treats like hot chocolate, cookies and snacks are provided throughout the cruise. The New Year's Eve White Night party, where all the guests don their best white attire, will take place throughout the ship and on the pool deck with entertainment, music and light bites.

Tips on Trips and Expert Picks Newsletter

Travel tips, vacation ideas and more to make your next vacation stellar.

Sign up to receive the latest updates from U.S News & World Report and our trusted partners and sponsors. By clicking submit, you are agreeing to our Terms and Conditions & Privacy Policy .

Courtesy of Viking

Viking's 12-day Christmas on the Main & Moselle cruise sails between Paris and Prague in 2023 and 2024. The adults-only sailing affords passengers 18 or older the opportunity to visit four European countries: France, Germany, Luxembourg and the Czech Republic. In addition to browsing the boutiques in Paris and a variety of Christmas markets in Germany, you'll want to explore iconic landmarks like Reims Cathedral in France and the Luxembourg American Cemetery. Don't miss the famed wines produced in the region, including Moselle, riesling, Müller-Thurgau and gewürztraminer.

The holiday spirit continues on board the ship with Christmas-themed cooking demonstrations in addition to festive decorations with garland, lights and gingerbread houses. Guests will also taste regional cuisine, enjoy cultural performances on board the ship and ashore, and learn about the history of the Christmas markets and local holiday traditions.

Read: Bucket List Cruises for Seniors and Retirees

Disney Cruise Line

Kent Phillips | Courtesy of Disney Cruise Line

Disney Cruise Line offers dozens of Christmas-themed cruises in November and December of 2023 and 2024. Cruisers looking to celebrate the holidays with Disney's cast of characters in 2023 can book a Very Merrytime cruise as short as a four-day sailing from Port Canaveral, Florida, to the Bahamas. For an extended getaway, consider Disney Cruise Line 's eastbound eastbound 15-day voyage that embarks in Cabo San Lucas, Mexico , and transits the Panama Canal, disembarking in Galveston, Texas .

On the first evening of every sailing, guests can gather around the three-deck-tall Christmas tree for the tree lighting ceremony, a holiday singalong and the introduction of Santa Claus. Other festivities include the fun-filled Mickey and Minnie's Holiday Party, themed Very Merrytime activities for children of all ages, carolers singing songs, and Christmas-inspired food and beverages. Disney characters like Mickey and Minnie Mouse will be sporting jolly new holiday attire during the special voyages.

Read: The Top Themed Cruises

Windstar Cruises

Courtesy of Windstar Cruises

Celebrate the holidays with a once-in-a-lifetime getaway to the sun-drenched islands of Tahiti . You'll set sail a few days before Christmas aboard the four-masted sailing yacht Wind Spirit. Windstar's 10-day Overwater Bungalow & Tahitian Paradise Cruise Tour also includes a three-night stay in overwater bungalows on the island of Moorea. Resort perks include a half-day private car tour and a romantic beach dinner where you can watch a spectacular French Polynesian sunset over the South Pacific Ocean.

Guests can join in on the holiday spirit around the ship with festive Christmas trees and decorations and holiday-inspired cocktails and treats. Special programming for the voyage includes a Christmas movie, a gala tea, an interdenominational Christmas service and a Christmas Eve dinner. Christmas morning brings more celebrations throughout the day, with holiday meals, a Yuletide afternoon tea and a Christmas dinner followed by a variety show in the evening.

Norwegian Cruise Line

Courtesy of Norwegian Cruise Line

Grab the swimsuit, flip-flops and sunglasses for a tropical holiday on Norwegian Cruise Line 's newest ship, Norwegian Viva. The line's nine-day Caribbean voyage departs round-trip from San Juan, Puerto Rico , several days after Christmas. There are eight ports of call, including stops in the beautiful islands of Curaçao , Bonaire , St. Lucia and Aruba . For a special celebration, splurge on luxurious suite accommodations in The Haven. The ship-within-a-ship retreat features a private restaurant, a lounge, a sundeck, a concierge desk and 24-hour butler service.

Holiday-themed activities on Norwegian's ships vary by itinerary and ship. Still, guests will find plenty of festive fun on board, including traditional holiday fare and holiday-inspired musical sets, trivia, and family and youth programming. Guests are invited to offer interdenominational services for fellow passengers during the sailing. You'll also find Hanukkah services listed in the Freestyle Daily Program. Plan to sleep in on New Year's Day and spend a blissful day relaxing at sea after a late night celebrating New Year's Eve on board the ship.

American Queen Voyages

The holiday-themed, eight-day Roundtrip New Orleans voyage on American Queen begins with an overnight in the city and disembarks just in time to spend Christmas Eve in the Big Easy . The ship – a 417-passenger paddlewheeler that is the largest steamboat ever built – will call on four ports during the sailing on the Lower Mississippi River. In Natchez, Mississippi, guests will find holiday markets exclusively created for the voyage, where you can shop for gifts and sweet treats. You'll also be greeted with bonfires along the riverbanks at the historic Nottoway Resort in White Parish, Louisiana. Join in the real spirit of Christmas with donations to Giving Trees in the port towns that help local charities.

There are plenty of cheery activities on board the ship with Christmas shows, singalongs, caroling and cooking demonstrations. Guests can also put their creative talents to work decorating gingerbread houses, ornaments and cards while sampling holiday-themed cocktails or sipping hot chocolate. Specially prepared dishes will celebrate the traditions of Hanukkah, including traditional foods like homemade latkes (fried potato pancakes).

Read: The Top Mississippi River Cruises

Courtesy of Silversea

For a life-changing experience and the merriest Christmas of all, spend the holiday with several species of waddling penguins, giant seals and majestic whales while visiting the ice-covered shores of The White Continent. The 10-day Punta Arenas to Puerto Williams expedition on Silversea 's Silver Endeavour sets sail from Chile a week before Christmas in 2023 for the Antarctica Peninsula. Five days of excursions allow travelers to explore this surreal and magical part of the world. Weather permitting, guests will even take a Zodiac cruise with the expedition team in the South Shetland Islands on Christmas Day.

Festive touches on board the ship include Christmas trees and lights, gingerbread houses, holiday arts and crafts, caroling, religious services, and musical performances by the crew and professional entertainers. Guests will also enjoy a traditional holiday dinner on Christmas Day.

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Gwen Pratesi has been an avid cruiser since her early 20s. She has sailed to destinations around the globe on nearly every type of cruise ship built, including the newest megaships, luxury yachts, expedition vessels, and river ships in Europe and on the Mekong River. She used her extensive knowledge and experience with the cruise industry to write this article. Pratesi covers the travel and culinary industries for major publications, including U.S. News & World Report.

You might also be interested in:

• The Top River Cruise Lines
• The Top Cruises on Small Ships
• Cruise Packing List: Essentials for Your Cruise
• The Top Christmas Lights Displays in the U.S.
• The Best Christmas Vacations

Tags: Travel , Cruises , Winter Vacations , Christmas

World's Best Places To Visit

• # 1 South Island, New Zealand
• # 4 Bora Bora

If you make a purchase from our site, we may earn a commission. This does not affect the quality or independence of our editorial content.

You May Also Like

Essentials to pack for a cruise.

Gwen Pratesi and Amanda Norcross May 2, 2024

Swimming With Pigs in the Bahamas

Amanda Norcross May 2, 2024

The 15 Best Chicago Tours for 2024

John Rodwan May 1, 2024

The 10 Best Harry Potter Tours in London

Marisa Méndez April 30, 2024

12 Cheap Fourth of July Getaways

April 29, 2024

The Best Tours of Buckingham Palace

Laura French April 29, 2024

Flight Canceled or Delayed? What to Do

Amanda Norcross April 26, 2024

The Best Beach Hats

Megan Johnson and Sharael Kolberg April 26, 2024

The Best Florence Tours

John Rodwan April 25, 2024

The 9 Best Louisiana Swamp Tours of 2024

John Rodwan April 24, 2024

Book a Europe cruise this summer with direct flights starting at £1*

• Need help? 0344 493 2043 0344 493 2043
• Let Us Call You CALL ME
• Drink Packages
• Flights by Celebrity℠
• Manage Reservation
• Shore Excursions
• Upgrade with MoveUp

• Join Captain's Club

Already booked? Sign in or create an account

• South Korea
• New Zealand
• Grand Cayman
• St. Maarten
• U.S Virgin Islands
• New England & Canada
• Pacific Coast
• Antarctic Ocean
• Panama Canal
• Transatlantic
• Transpacific
• Cruise Ports (+300)
• Mediterranean
• All Inclusive
• Bucket List Cruises
• Cruise & Stay Packages
• Alaska & Galapagos Packages
• Family Cruises
• Groups & Events
• New Cruises
• Overnight Stays Cruises
• Popular Cruises
• Specialty Cruises
• Destination Highlights
• Group Excursions
• Private Journeys
• Shore Excursions Overview
• Small Group Discoveries

Our revolutionary Edge series ship, Celebrity Apex, sails from Southampton, exploring Europe's must-see destinations.

• 360° Virtual Tours
• Celebrity Apex®
• Celebrity Ascent℠ NEW
• Celebrity Beyond℠
• Celebrity Constellation®
• Celebrity Edge®
• Celebrity Eclipse®
• Celebrity Equinox®
• Celebrity Infinity®
• Celebrity Millennium®
• Celebrity Reflection®
• Celebrity Silhouette®
• Celebrity Solstice®
• Celebrity Summit®
• Celebrity Xcel℠ COMING SOON
• Explore Edge Series

Galapagos Expedition Series

• Celebrity Flora®
• Celebrity Xpedition®
• Celebrity Xploration®
• The Retreat
• All Suites. All Included
• Iconic Suite
• Penthouse Suite
• Reflection Suite
• Royal Suite
• Signature Suite
• Celebrity Suite
• Aqua Sky Suite
• Concierge Class
• Eat & Drink
• Entertainment
• Spa & Wellness

• Cruising 101
• Cruise Fare Options
• Cruise Tips
• First Time on a Cruise
• What is Included on a Cruise
• Future Cruise Vacations
• Accessible Cruising
• Flights by Celebrity
• Healthy at Sea
• Manage Cruise
• The Celebrity Store
• Travel Documents
• Our Distinction
• Royal Caribbean International
• Celebrity Cruises

• At Least 30% Off 1st & 2nd Guest
• Fly to Europe from £1
• 3rd & 4th Guests Sail from £129pp
• 20% Off Galapagos Cruises
• Exciting Deals
• Cruise and Stay Packages
• Bluelight & Military Offers
• View All Offers
• All Included
• Dining Packages
• Photo Packages
• Wi-Fi Packages
• View All Packages
• Captain's Club
• Celebrity Points
• Loyalty Exclusive Offers

Get at least 30% off your first and second guests' cruise fare. Plus, book now and get bonus savings of up to £200 on the stateroom you want.

CHRISTMAS CRUISES

Enjoy the magic of the holidays with Celebrity Cruises

• Celebrate with Celebrity
• Holiday Cruising
• Culinary Cruises
• Music & Themed Cruises
• LGBTQ+ Cruises

Celebrate the most wonderful time of the year on a Christmas cruise.

Spend an unforgettable vacation on one of our Christmas cruises, where you’ll enjoy the spirit of the season while sailing to some of the most spectacular destinations around the world.

Feast on traditional meals designed by a Michelin-starred chef—without worrying about any of the prep or cleanup. Marvel at our festive decorations, like Christmas trees covered in trimmings and tinsel that will make you feel right at home. Sing along with carolers, watch holiday-themed shows at The Theatre, and welcome Santa on board as he pays a special visit to all of the lucky kids spending Christmas at sea.

Christmas Fun for Everyone

On one of our luxury Christmas cruises, you can rest easy knowing that every member of the family will enjoy the vacation of a lifetime. Adults can schedule an indulgent afternoon at The Spa, while the kids are entertained at Camp at Sea. Teens can mingle with other teens at the Teens Club, while grandparents will love the nightly family dinners that take place in the main dining room. On Christmas Eve, watch a festive holiday show together in the theater, enjoy live holiday music, or head up to the rooftop for a Christmas-themed family movie night under the stars.

Christmas Cruise Itineraries

Escape the winter chill and plan a holiday vacation to some of the sunniest destinations around the world. Build a sandman on the pristine beaches of the Caribbean. Get into the holiday spirit while sailing around Australia and New Zealand. Or spend Christmas Eve during a once-in-a-lifetime cruise around the Galapagos Islands.

Itineraries

Tips for planning the perfect christmas cruise.

Go the extra mile and book a stay at The Retreat ® , our luxury vacation experience, where you and your family will have access to a private restaurant and lounge, a team of dedicated butlers and concierges to assist you in whatever you may need, and an array of stunning suites to choose from. 

You can also purchase unlimited premium beverage and specialty dining packages, bon voyage gifts, perks packages, an unlimited class pass to the fitness center, and more special treats on our website.

View All Christmas Cruises

You might also like.

December Cruises

Holiday Cruises

New Year’s Eve Cruises

Caribbean Cruises

Galapagos Cruises

Types Of Cruises You Must Experience At Least Once

Best Cruises for Teens

Best Caribbean Islands for Families

Family Cruise Deals

Cruises from Fort Lauderdale

Cruises from Miami

Eastern Caribbean Cruises

Western Caribbean Cruises

Weekend Cruises

Retirement Cruises

Previewing: Promo Dashboard Campaigns

12 best Christmas cruises for 2024 and 2025

It's the most wonderful time of the year ... to go on a cruise.

Trade the glow of a Christmas tree in your living room with the warmth of the sand and the sun on a holiday cruise. Skip the mulled wine on your stovetop for some of the world's best at a European Christmas market.

Christmas cruises can level up your holiday celebrations — and are an ideal opportunity to escape the conventional holiday celebrations in place of an adventure.

On a holiday cruise, you can leave the cooking, cleaning and decorating to the pros and simply enjoy time with your family. Christmas and New Year's cruises can also be good options for people trying to avoid the crush of relatives or who don't have family but still want to spend the holiday surrounded by other people and festive cheer.

Winter cruises feature holiday-themed activities for all ages, special feasts that capture the magic of the holiday season and port calls at destinations that let you enjoy the holiday spirit without shivering from frigid temperatures.

For more cruise news, reviews and tips, sign up for TPG's cruise newsletter .

It's never too early to plan your holiday getaway, especially as these cruises are among the quickest to sell out. Here are the best Christmas and New Year's cruises still available in 2024 and holiday sailings in 2025 to book now, as well as some useful tips about holiday cruise travel.

Holiday cruise tips

Before you book, keep in mind a few key facts about Christmas cruises.

Rates will be high

Expect cruise fares to be among the highest of the year during the holiday weeks as demand increases.

The best prices will be for early bookings; you likely won't find any last-minute discounts. If you do, they might be on windowless inside cabins or guarantee cabins , where the cruise line picks your room location.

Sailings will sell out

Holiday sailings sell out earlier than other itineraries, as people plan their holiday vacations months in advance. Suites and special cabins (family, spa and solo rooms and so forth) book up the fastest.

Consider booking your holiday cruise as early as possible, as the December sailings often fill up a year in advance .

Consider your own decorations

The crew will decorate public areas on board, but passengers often go all-out decorating their doors and cabins for the holidays.

Magnetic doors on cabins are blank canvases for the imagination. You'll find stateroom doors on Christmas cruises covered in wrapping paper, adorned with garlands or dotted with holiday-themed images.

It's best to double-check with your cruise line before attaching anything to your door or in your cabin, as rules and regulations differ per line. If you're not creative, check if your cruise line offers cabin decoration packages for preorder prior to your sailing.

Specialty dining is not advised on the actual holiday

Most of the specialty dining restaurants on major cruise lines have set menus that do not change for the holidays.

Your best bet for traditional holiday dinner options (think roast turkey, smoked ham, mashed potatoes and gravy) will come from the main, included dining options on board. It can't hurt to ask if any extra-fee restaurants are doing a Christmas or New Year's menu if you're looking for a more intimate holiday meal.

Expect holiday hours in port

Most cruise ships will plan for Christmas to be a sea day, but if you're in port on Dec. 25 (or on Boxing Day, as many islands celebrate the day after), expect shops, restaurants and attractions to have modified hours or be closed.

Onboard services won't stop, so if all your top lunch spots in port are closed, you're always guaranteed a hot meal on the ship.

Consider a holiday bonus for the crew

Cruise ship crew members go beyond the standard service on all lines for the holidays, whether it's a kind note wishing you well, a Champagne toast for New Year's or a fanciful towel creation.

They can't be at home celebrating with their families because they're working hard to make your holiday special. While gratuities are often included in your fare or added automatically to your final bill, consider tipping extra on a Christmas cruise. The hardworking staff will appreciate your extra generosity during the holiday season.

Best Christmas cruises for 2024

If you're on the hunt for the ideal holiday getaway, consider these Christmas cruises for this year's holiday vacation. (Note: These sailings had availability at the time of writing, but prices may change or ships sell out at any time.)

4-night Very Merrytime Bahamian cruise on Disney Cruise Line

Sail dates: Dec. 22-26, 2024

Ship: Disney Fantasy

Access Disney Cruise Line's newest private island when you sail Disney Fantasy this Christmas. This four-night Very Merrytime Bahamian cruise sails from Port Canaveral, Florida (near Orlando) to Disney's Castaway Cay, followed by a day at the new Disney Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point. The new island destination will highlight island culture with work by local artists and Bahamian music throughout the colorful beachside resort.

This sailing is one of Disney Cruise Line 's Very Merrytime Cruises, so expect plenty of holiday-themed surprises and special moments. Disney's December sailings feature snow flurries in the ship's atrium, pop-up meet-and-greets with Disney characters dressed in their holiday best and a Christmas wonderland on the beach at Castaway Cay and Lookout Cay.

Rates start at $4,862 for two adults sharing an inside cabin, including all taxes and fees.

16-night Circle Hawaii Holiday cruise on Holland America

Sail dates: Dec. 18, 2024-Jan. 3, 2025

Ship: Zaandam

The 16-night Circle Hawaii Holiday on Holland America's Zaandam is a great way to retreat from the cold this December. The extended itinerary will whisk you away for both Christmas and the New Year.

The ship sails round-trip from San Diego with stops in Honolulu; Kahului, Maui; and Hilo and Kona, Hawaii. You'll spend five days traversing the Pacific Ocean on your way to Hawaii and five days at sea returning to the west coast for one more stop in Ensenada, Mexico, before returning to San Diego. You can also enjoy scenic cruising by the Kilauea Volcano.

Don't forget your holiday best, as Zaandam will host a Christmas Eve formal ball with dinner and dancing, as well as a midnight Mass. Other seasonal events include a holiday-themed high tea service, holiday choir performances and Santa meet-and-greets.

Rates for inside cabins start from $1,739 per person, not including an estimated $282 per person in taxes, fees and port expenses.

13-night New Zealand holiday cruise on Celebrity Cruises

Sail dates: Dec. 20, 2024-Jan. 2, 2025

Ship: Celebrity Edge

The most appealing holiday itinerary on Celebrity Cruises takes you Down Under for a two-week celebration, sailing round-trip from Sydney.

You'll cruise during the region's summer season with an itinerary that traverses the picturesque Milford Sound, Doubtful Sound and Dusky Sound before making port stops in Dunedin, Napier, Auckland, Tauranga and Bay of Islands, New Zealand.

The cruise doesn't call on Australian ports, but you can easily tack on a land-based pre- or post-cruise stay since the ship sails from Sydney.

If you're feeling the holiday spirit, sign up to join a group of crew and passengers to go caroling around the ship. Cookie decorating, visits with Santa and Christmas games are part of the holiday fun. On New Year's Eve, gather for a special party with a complimentary midnight Champagne toast, party favors and live music.

The lowest cabin fares start at $1,664 per person, plus $444.55 in taxes, fees and port expenses.

15-night South Africa Intensive Voyage on Azamara

Sail dates: Dec. 20, 2024-Jan. 4, 2025

Ship: Azamara Pursuit

Azamara is known for its travels to less-frequented ports, often with longer stays providing more time for immersion. Go somewhere new with Azamara's 15-night Christmas and New Year's cruise around South Africa. Azamara Quest sails round-trip from Cape Town with stops along the east coast of South Africa, including Port Elizabeth, Richards Bay, Durban and Mossel Bay.

Holiday events include caroling concerts, pop-ups with Christmas cookies and hot chocolate, and a special tree-trimming party on Dec. 24. Azamara Quest will time its popular White Night pool deck party to coincide with New Year's Eve. The line has a tradition of seeking out the oldest person on board to ring the ship's bell two minutes prior to midnight to literally "ring out the old." Then the youngest passenger on board will "ring in the new" as the clock strikes 12 o'clock.

Rates start from $2,784 per person, not including $196 in taxes, fees and port expenses.

7-night Christmas Markets on the Danube cruise on AmaWaterways

Sail dates: Dec. 9-15, 2024

Ship: AmaBella

A river cruise through Europe is the most convenient way to visit many of the continent's famous Christmas markets.

Your ship will dock in the heart of each city, usually just a few steps from the markets. Sailing with AmaWaterways during the holiday season, guests return from a day exploring the markets to events on board that include tree-trimming, caroling and a fun European tradition called "Shoes for St. Nick," where passengers who leave their slippers outside their stateroom awake to find them filled with sweets.

Unlike most Christmas-related retail stores in the U.S. that stay open through the holiday season, many of Europe's Christmas markets close up shop by Dec. 22, so you'll need to take your vacation before Christmas itself. AmaWaterways' seven-night Christmas Markets on the Danube cruise takes place aboard AmaBella. You'll be immersed in the holiday spirit with port stops in Passau, Germany; Linz, Vienna and Weissenkirchen, Austria; and Budapest.

Rates for the weeklong cruise start at $3,699 per person, not including $224 in port charges and taxes.

7-night Western Caribbean cruise on Princess Cruises

Sail dates: Dec. 21-28, 2024

Ship: Sun Princess

Debuting in February 2024, Sun Princess is the first of Princess Cruises ' brand-new Sphere-class series of ships.

Take the line's newest flagship for a Christmastime spin on a round-trip Fort Lauderdale itinerary that features port calls at Cozumel, Mexico; Belize City, Belize; and Roatan, Honduras. Three sea days give guests plenty of time to explore all the attractions on board, from a dome-covered pool area to a top-deck family activity zone.

The 4,300-passenger vessel will be about 21% bigger than the current biggest ships in the Princess fleet. It will be the line's first ship that features suites with exclusive access to a private restaurant, lounge and sun deck. Sun Princess will also boast an innovative new "cabana cabin" along the ship's extra-wide 10th deck with access to a private deck area.

It will be easy to get into the holiday spirit while on board Sun Princess, with festive decor throughout the ship and an occasional "snowfall" in the Atrium. If you're traveling with kids, you can leave cookies for Santa and carrots for his reindeer. Christmas caroling, storytime and other holiday events will help you create special holiday memories.

Rates for the Western Caribbean cruise start at $957 per person for an inside cabin, not including $153 in taxes, fees and port expenses.

12-night Antarctic Explorer cruise on Viking

Sail dates: Dec. 22, 2024-Jan. 3, 2025

Ship: Viking Polaris

While instinct might say to stop by the North Pole to check in on Santa's operations, it's just too cold, dark and icy for cruising. Instead, head toward the South Pole and Antarctica for a Christmas expedition.

Spend close to two weeks exploring the farthest reaches of the earth on the Antarctic Explorer itinerary aboard Viking 's Polaris. The route sails round-trip from Ushuaia, Argentina, before traversing the Drake Passage and cruising Antarctica for seven days. You'll have a cruise line-provided pre-cruise stay in Buenos Aires the night before you fly down to Ushuaia to meet your ship.

You'll explore the icebergs and cliffs of Antarctica on Christmas, presumably followed by a hot cocoa or a warm cocktail on deck. Afterward, treat yourself to Nordic-inspired dishes like smoked salmon and caviar, along with holiday treats like krumkake (a Nordic take on the cannoli) and sandkaker (Norwegian sugar cookies).

As with all Antarctica itineraries, ports and destinations on the continent change by the day, depending on weather and climate conditions. Rates for available staterooms on the cruise start from $15,495, including airfare, port taxes and fees.

Best Christmas cruises for 2025

If you want to score the best prices on a holiday cruise, book far in advance. Here are a few cruises to consider for your 2025 Christmas vacation.

Royal Caribbean: 7-night Eastern Caribbean & Perfect Day cruise

Sail dates: Dec. 20-27, 2025

Ship: Icon of the Seas

Catch a ride on the world's largest cruise ship during the 2025 holiday season. Highlights of Royal Caribbean 's new Icon of the Seas include a reconfigured Aqua Theater, now set at the bow of the ship inside a giant glass dome and featuring a dazzling 50-foot waterfall and dancing robotic arms, and Category 6, the largest waterpark at sea with six waterslides, including the tallest drop slide at sea.

This holiday-week sailing departs round-trip from Miami with stops in Philipsburg, St. Maarten; Charlotte Amalie, St. Thomas; and Perfect Day at CocoCay (Royal Caribbean's private island in the Bahamas). Three days at sea might not be enough time to try everything on board!

Holiday highlights often include Christmas Eve caroling, an ugly Christmas sweater crafting competition, Christmas ornament and gingerbread cookie decorating classes, and holiday games and trivia.

The lowest available cabin category for this sailing is an ocean-view cabin, starting at $3,266 per person, not including $182.51 in taxes, fees and port expenses per person.

7-night Eastern Caribbean cruise on Carnival Cruise Line

Sail dates: Dec. 21-Dec. 28, 2025

Ship: Carnival Celebration

Carnival's seven-night Eastern Caribbean sailing is an excellent way to experience Carnival's Celebration Key, the line's new private destination on the south side of Grand Bahama Island. Carnival Celebration sails round-trip from Miami with stops in Celebration Key; Nassau, Bahamas; Amber Cove, Dominican Republic and Grand Turk, Turks and Caicos, so you can get some much-needed beach time and warm weather.

The line understands its family-forward "fun" ships are built for cheery escapes, and its Christmas celebrations fit perfectly into that world. Seasonal holiday events include Christmas caroling, an ugly sweater competition and a live holiday show with appearances by Santa and the Grinch.

Rates for inside cabins start at $1,049 per person, not including an estimated $215.65 per person in fees.

14-night Galapagos cruise on Silversea

Sail dates: Dec. 13-27, 2025

Ship: Silver Origin

Escape to the exotic Galapagos Islands for the holidays with a Silversea cruise. On the 14-night sailing round-trip from San Cristóbal, Silver Origin will alight at a remarkable 27 ports throughout the archipelago.

The Silver Origin's Christmas sailing will include many festive enhancements, beginning with an extensive overlay of greenery and ornaments throughout the interiors of the ship. The ship's culinary team will prepare a special Christmas Eve and Christmas Day dinner menu, along with mulled wine, eggnog and hot chocolate.

Adding to the cheer, guests and the ship's crew can participate in caroling, and despite no chimney in sight, a special visitor from the North Pole is scheduled to make an appearance.

The "door-to-door" rate for this sailing starts from $24,400 per person, including port fees and taxes. It includes a transfer service to the airport, airfare, shore excursions, premium alcoholic beverages, all gratuities, butler service and a return transfer back home at the end of your trip.

11-night Monteverde Cloud Forest & Arenal Volcano cruise tour on Windstar Cruises

Sail dates: Dec. 16-27, 2025

Ship: Wind Spirit

Give yourself a bucket list gift for Christmas and book a Panama Canal cruise for your winter vacation.

Windstar Cruises ' Wind Spirit — a cruise ship that's part yacht, part four-masted sailing ship — is sailing down Costa Rica's Pacific coast and through the Panama Canal during the 2025 holiday season.

The journey begins with a five-day land tour of Costa Rica, taking guests to the Arenal volcano and Monteverde Cloud Forest Biological Reserve. You'll then head to Puerto Caldera to board Wind Spirit. The ship will sail south to Quepos and Puerto Jimenez, Costa Rica. Then it's on to ports in Isla Parida and Balboa (for Panama City) in Panama before sailing through the Panama Canal.

To sweeten the holiday, Windstar gifts each cabin with a basket of Christmas cookies, candy canes, mandarin oranges, roasted nuts and chocolate candies.

Rates for the 11-night Central American getaway start from $5,599 per person, not including $474 in port fees and taxes.

7-night Roundtrip New Orleans Christmas cruise on American Queen Voyages

Sail dates: Dec. 22-29, 2025

Ship: American Countess

Glide up the Lower Mississippi River and soak in the charms of historic towns decked out in their holiday finest. This American Queen Voyages itinerary will also visit the special European-style Christmas market in Natchez, Mississippi, created especially for the line.

The itinerary begins with a pre-cruise hotel stay in New Orleans, where the bustling Bourbon Street awaits exploration. The Mississippi river sailing includes stops along the river at Nottoway, Louisiana; Natchez, Mississippi; St. Francisville, Louisiana and an overnight in Baton Rouge, Louisiana.

Guests can opt for a premium holiday shore excursion in Natchez. The Jeweled Christmas in Natchez tour features a visit to The Towers, one of the state's most opulent privately owned antebellum homes. Guests will ooh and ahh over the festive decorations and displays that include over 100 Christmas trees.

While on board, passengers will enjoy festive holiday decorations, special holiday performances, seasonal cuisine and Christmas cocktails.

Rates for the seven-night Roundtrip New Orleans Christmas cruise start from $3,819 per person, including taxes, port fees and gratuities.

Planning a cruise? Start with these stories:

• The 5 most desirable cabin locations on any cruise ship
• A beginners guide to picking a cruise line
• The 8 worst cabin locations on any cruise ship
• The ultimate guide to what to pack for a cruise
• A quick guide to the most popular cruise lines
• 21 tips and tricks that will make your cruise go smoothly
• Top ways cruisers waste money
• The ultimate guide to choosing a cruise ship cabin

You are using an outdated browser. Please upgrade your browser to improve your experience.

Very Merrytime Cruises

Ship Locations

Experience Type

Create a new family tradition and celebrate the holidays at sea immersed in a winter wonderland of fun!

Onboard activities, featured 2024 itineraries.

• Agent Login
• Manage Booking

• Idyllic Aegean - 7 Nights
• Summer (Mar – Oct)
• Iconic Aegean Summer - 4 Nights
• Iconic Aegean Summer - 3 Nights
• Winter (Mar, Oct, Nov)
• Iconic Aegean Winter – 4 Nights
• Iconic Aegean Winter – 3 Nights
• Summer (Mar - Oct)

Arabian Gulf

• Desert Days – Abu Dhabi – Dubai – 3 Nights
• Iconic Aegean Summer – 4 Nights
• Desert Days – Dubai – Abu Dhabi – 4 Nights
• Heavenly Adriatic – 7 Nights
• Steps of Paul - 7 Nights
• Summer Heavenly Adriatic – 7 Nights
• Desert Days – 7 Nights
• Desert Days & Qatar Grand Prix – 7 Nights
• Desert Days & Abu Dhabi Grand Prix – 7 Nights
• Three Continents - 7 Nights
• Idyllic Aegean & Steps of Paul - 14 Nights
• Ancient Athens to Dazzling Doha – 14 Nights
• Desert Days & Double Grand Prix – 14 Nights
• Dazzling Doha to Ancient Athens – 14 Nights
• Heavenly Adriatic & Idyllic Aegean – 14 Nights
• Desert Days – Doha Extended Stay – 7 Nights
• Desert Days Abu Dhabi Extension – 7 Nights

Thessaloniki

• All Inclusive Cruising
• Solo Cruises
• Family Cruises
• Group Cruises
• Last Minute Cruises
• Religious Cruises
• Cuisine Cruises
• Mini Cruises – 3 & 4 Day
• Winter Cruises
• Cultural Cruises
• Wedding Cruises
• Download 2024 | 2025 Cruise Brochure

Destinations

• View all destinations
• Chania Souda
• Greece and Greek Islands
• Download 2024 | 2025 Brochure

Top Destinations

• Celestyal Journey
• Celestyal Discovery
• What's Included
• Complimentary Dining
• Shore Excursions
• On Board Entertainment
• Port Charges and Gratuities
• Drinks Menus
• Dining Menus
• Concierge Services
• Special Occasions
• Embarkation Protocols
• Authentic Excursions
• Our Special Offers
• Peace of Mind
• Sign up for Cruise Deals Emails

Greek Island Hopping Cruise

3 night cruises, 4 night cruises, 7 night cruises, 14 night cruises, cruises from, theme cruises, adriatic cruises, mediterranean, inclusive cruising, food and drink, know before you go – brochure.

• United States ($)
• +1 (877) 337-4665

Let It Sale. Let It Sail.Let It Sale.

Inclusive prices from only

per person per trip

BOOK BY DEC 31

Christmas 2023 - 11 Nights

Wish for a Christmas miracle and follow it through Europe and Africa to the Holy Land itself. Join us on our truly unique festive journey and you’ll spend Christmas Eve and Christmas Day celebrating in Israel. The birthplace of Jesus Christ, stories and traditions come alive here like nowhere else. And before we reach this grand crescendo, you’ll have the chance to marvel at pyramids in Cairo, explore the ancient kingdom of Curium, and discover the greatest gifts of the Greek Islands. With a Christmas this merry, the feelings and experiences we share onboard will be as unique as a snowflake. Don’t let the opportunity melt away.

Cruise itinerary

Your cruise begins in the majestic ancient city of Athens. As one of the oldest cities in the world, the vibrant modern metropolis boasts an intriguing and contrasting mix of the old and the modern architecture that is in perfect balance and harmony. Explore the city and soak up the atmosphere by the harbour’s edge as you wait to embark for your exciting adventure.

Thessaloniki is a gorgeous and cosmopolitan seaside city and the largest in Greece after Athens. Centuries of cultural commingling has also made Thessaloniki a culinary nirvana, with almost too many great restaurants and little eateries to count.

We enter from the azure-blue Bay of Izmir, watching the lively city approach with its distinctly Turkish skyline. The Pearl of the Aegean, Izmir has a rich heritage of multicultural influences, so the cuisine and communities are endlessly inviting. Even in winter, the laidback and vivacious atmosphere can make it feel like summer never left

(Agios Nikolaus)

Along the spectacular Cretan coast east of Heraklion you’ll find the energetic resort towns of Hersonissos and Malia and also the capital of the Lassithi region, Agios Nikolaos. The charming resort town, whose name (Saint Nicholas, in English) refers to Greece’s patron saint of sailors, fronts the wide blue Bay of Mirabello. The town’s landmark round Lake Voulismeni—where the goddess Athena is said to have bathed—connects to the sea.

An extra special stop on our festive cruise brings you within 100 miles of the birthplace of St Nicholas, the original Santa Claus. Here in Antalya you’ll follow the footsteps of a Roman emperor at Hadrian’s Gate. You’ll discover Ottoman-era houses and gardens in the old town of Kaleici. And you’ll even meet the founder of Turkey, Kemal Ataturk, at his striking monument in Republic Square.

Bustling Limassol is Cyprus’ cultural hub and tourist centre. Its streets are lined with colourful cafes, bars and restaurants. To complement the modern attractions, the lively city also has the historic monument of Limassol Castle and a collection of ancient treasures on show in the Cyprus Medieval Museum. Unveil the UNESCO-listed archaeological site of Pafos, and the legend of Aphrodite’s Rock.

One of the greatest cities in human history, known for its legend, mystique and iconic history. Alexandria was founded by Alexander the Great, became the seat of power for the Ptolemaic Kingdom, and has stories to tell about everyone from Cleopatra to Napoleon. With a full day, night and morning to explore, it’s hard not to fall in love with the ‘Bride of the Mediterranean’.

Your Christmas story leads you down the same path as the Three Wise Men on their journey to Palestine’s Bethlehem. Here in Haifa in what is now Israel, you will spend Christmas Eve and Christmas Day bringing scenes from the holy story to life for yourself. Wander through ever-changing neighbourhoods and witness the blend of modernity with ancient culture.

A day at sea gives you the opportunity to explore the ship’s array of amenities, take full advantage of the onboard activities and indulge in our chef’s exquisite cuisine. Kick back and soak up the sun as we treat you to drinks from the bar. Alternatively, why not participate in handicrafts, language lessons, traditional dancing, games or exercise. There’s plenty to do.

When we arrive back in Athens for a day of festivities, Greek-style, you can choose how to spend our day together. Visit the monuments you know from legends and history? Marvel at the view of the city from the Acropolis? Shop for last-minute gifts to share your voyage with loved ones at home? It’s all up to you. This is our home city, and we can’t wait to show you around.

At a Glance

Amazing excursions carefully curated, panoramic limassol curium, classic cairo, an inclusive experience.

COMPLIMENTARY DINING

We know the best recipes are the ones passed down between generations. And we love to share that with our guests. So onboard a Celestyal cruise, you can expect freshly prepared by our local chefs – morning, noon and night!

SELECT DRINKS WITH MEALS

Sit down to an authentic evening meal and enjoy specially selected drinks to go with it. Our dedicated hospitality team know how to make every meal a delicious experience so let them take your taste buds away.

VIBRANT ENTERTAINMENT

Immersing our guests in the local way of life is at the heart of the Celestyal experience. Take Greek dancing lessons from a pro and take the Mediterranean culture home with you. Enjoy a drink with your group as you watch the stars glitter off the Aegean with our front-seat, panoramic horizon bar views. And don’t miss the colour and magic of Cirque Fantastic!

$80 SHOREX EXCURSION DISCOUNT

We can’t wait to welcome you to our beautiful blue world, so when you step foot on the sands of Greece and the Eastern Med, our endless excursion options are designed to take you to the heart of our homeland. As standard, all of our guests enjoy a $80 excursion discount to put towards any of our immersive experiences.

PORT CHARGES AND GRATUITIES

With all charges, port expenses and gratuities included in our fares, you can relax knowing we’ve got you covered. We’ll bring your next adventure to you, with no additional fees.

Our 2024-2025 brochure has arrived! Download your very own to start planning your Celestyal experience.

Receive Special Offers

Thank you for requesting a quote about the amazing cruises we have on offer at Celestyal Cruises.

Our team are looking into your request and will be in touch within 2 working days. We are confident you will not be disappointed!

Thank you your enquiry.

This has been sent to our team of experts and we will be in touch shortly. If you have any further questions please contact us on

Back to Celestyal

Privacy Overview

Begin with the tour of your brochure

Explore the Mediterranean as you flick between the pages of our 2024-2025 Cruise Brochure. Where will your journey take you?

Language United States Argentina Australia Balkans Canada Chile Colombia English (INT) English (UK) EU France Germany Greece Cyprus Mexico New Zealand Brazil Spain

Oops, before we can share our inspiring email content with you, we first need to make sure that you’re happy that we’re going to look after your data and not share it with anyone else. Please ensure you tick the boxes to let us know you’re happy with that. Thanks.

Welcome Aboard!

We’ve sent you your Cruise Brochure

Download your brochure

• 1-855-932-1711
• My Account Hello Credits My Account Log out

Holiday Cruises

Reconnect with loved ones on a holiday cruise. Leave the prep and party planning to us as you enjoy world-class cuisine inspired by our culinary masters. Take in views and explore legendary lands as you navigate the world’s waterways in the comfort of our perfectly sized ships. Rejuvenate with hydrotherapy at the Greenhouse Spa & Salon®. Start new traditions this holiday season.

2024-2025 Holiday Cruises To Celebrate

Leave The Planning To Us

Start New Holiday Traditions

Holidays Are Better On Board

A New Year’s Cruise To Remember

CARIBBEAN HOLIDAY CRUISES

MEXICO HOLIDAY CRUISES

Travel Alert Advisory

• WHAT'S INCLUDED
• DATES & PRICES
• CONNECTIONS

CRUISE FROM :

At a glance.

Itinerary is subject to change. For the most up-to-date information, please refer to the itinerary schedule provided with your final documents.

Experience More Connections

• Terms and Conditions
• Lost & Found
• Passenger Ticket Contract
• Employment Opportunities
• Privacy Policy
• Unsubscribe
• Cruise Finder
• Destinations
• Vietnam & Cambodia
• Wine Cruises
• Golf Cruises
• Christmas Markets
• Land Packages
• Mission Statement
• Why AmaWaterways
• The Luxury Of More
• Already Booked
• Kristin's Blog
• Media Library
• Travel Advisor Portal

• Christmas Cruises

Christmas Cruises 2023

Getaway with Carnival in 2023!

Thinking about a holiday in 2023?

Christmas should always be a relaxing time, and with a Christmas cruise in 2023 you can take that relaxation to the next level.

Spend the Christmas holidays snorkeling in the crystal-clear waters of the South Pacific, or exploring the magnificent natural wonders of Airlie Beach.

And enjoy the Christmas-themed fun of one of our award-winning cruise deals.

CHOOSE YOUR HOLIDAY SPOT

Set sail from Brisbane or Sydney and leave the usual Christmas stress behind.

Instead, have a Christmas party you and your family will cherish forever.

Travel to some of the most picturesque destinations in the world, and make the most of more than 45 activities onboard the Carnival Luminosa or Carnival Luminosa.

A Christmas cruise in 2023 will be a Christmas you will never forget.

Jump online today at Carnival to plan and book your Christmas cruise 2023 to remember.

Commonly Asked Questions

Are christmas cruises in 2023 worth it.

Yep. And anyone who thinks otherwise is a scrooge! When you book one of our Christmas cruises in 2023, we take care of Christmas for you. And who wouldn’t want that? Christmas in a cruise ship means chilling out on a beach, relaxing on a sundeck, or exploring the South Pacific.

Christmas cruises in 2023 don’t mean stressing, spending hours cooking, or running around with family dramas. Spend the festive season with your loved ones on a cruise ship and enjoy.

Are Christmas cruises being cancelled?

Keep an eye on this page to find out the latest about our Christmas cruises for 2023. We’re planning a lot of fun for your family holiday and some pretty amazing shore excursions to places such as:

• Airlie Beach
• Isle of Pines

Are Christmas cruises crowded?

Summer is always the most popular time on cruise ships, but our Christmas cruises from Brisbane and Christmas cruises from Sydney tend to be a little quieter than others in the warmer months. But that doesn’t mean they’re not a lot of fun. As well as the heap of Christmas themed fun, there’s still all our activities onboard to enjoy including:

• Amazing food
• Waterslides
• Playlist Productions

When should I book a Christmas cruise in 2023?

You can book Christmas cruises for 2023 at any time. Our great cruise deals are ready and waiting for you.

Do cruise ships decorate for Christmas?

We don’t just decorate. Christmas cruises in 2023 will go full-out Christmas theme with fun such as:

• Santa visits
• Backyard cricket
• Festive show
• Christmas food
• Christmas tree lighting

What is a Christmas cruise like?

Just like Christmas itself, a Christmas cruise in 2023 will be full of joy and a lot of merriment. You and your family will create memories that will last forever.

Mon - Fri 9 - 19 | Sat 9 - 18 | Sun 10 - 16

CHRISTMAS AND NEW YEAR CRUISES 

Start planning your winter holidays with the best christmas cruise deals.

This Winter holiday season, give yourself and your loved ones the gift of a lifetime with an unforgettable Christmas cruise like no other! With options from 4 to 14 nights, step aboard to the sun-kissed Caribbean and the enchanting Mediterranean to the captivating Emirates .

Experience unparalleled convenience with our direct cruise option aboard the state-of-the-art MSC Euribia , sailing from Southampton to the picturesque Northern European Pearls .

Get ready to be immersed in the spirit of Christmas from the moment you set foot on the ship. Experience Christmas shows , MasterChef Christmas Editions , Christmas karaoke , and more. Kids will also spend the most magical Christmas time meeting Santa Claus and joining many other themed activities designed for them.

A cruise is the perfect Christmas wish! Secure your holiday today.

CHRISTMAS CRUISES ENTERTAINMENT

Christmas entertainment activities for adults.

MasterChef Christmas Edition:  The most famous cooking talent show in the world steps aboard MSC Christmas cruises! The power of the activity is the fact that the experience goes over the cruise; the lucky winner of the final prize, will have the opportunity to take part into the casting of the TVShow, and become the new Star of MasterChef!

Christmas Karaoke : amaze your friends and fellow guests sing the Christmas hits like they’ve never been heard before.

MSC Christmas Show:  a fantastic production Show inspired by the Christmas spirit and specifically designed for this iconic festivity will delight you.

CHRISTMAS ENTERTAINMENT ACTIVITIES FOR KIDS AND FAMILY

Santa’s extravaganza: don't miss the biggest MSC Cruises event of the year, for all our children and parents on board Santa will personally bring a gift for each child on board from 0 to 11 years old. More than 15.000 gifts will be given fleetwide including Lego, Chicco, board games, sustainable toys and official MSC merchandise for an unforgettable Christmas cruise. Movie with Santa:  a special and unique MSC Cruises original short movie dedicated to the Santa’s arrival onboard (as part of “Santa’s Extravaganza”). Doremix Xmas:  kids and family disco game with the top 5hit list XMAS songs , all selected by our children. MSC Kids Xmas Parade:  be sure not to miss our original Xmas parade starring Doremi, Lego Sailor and all our children. Winter Wonderland (Doremi Village):  Doremi & Lego Sailor village with games, line dances and a lot of Xmas Magic.

DISCOVER ALL CHRISTMAS AND NEW YEAR CRUISES

Terms and conditions.

WAVE “All Inclusive” rates are per person based on double occupancy. The rates are subject to change and may vary without notice. This offer is valid on new bookings only from 06/12/2023 to 31/03/2024, valid on all Summer 2024 & Winter 24-25 cruises. Under the WAVE “All Inclusive” promotion, guests will be able to purchase selected cruises on discounted rates (up to -£300). The £600 per cabin saving is based on MSC World Europa 27th September 2024 sailing.

Discounts apply to categories in different absolute amounts and according to availability, calculated per person and refer to double occupancy pricing (passenger 1 & 2). 3rd and 4th berth guests pay the usual applicable rate. For solo travellers, the applicable solo supplement valid for the departure at the time of booking will apply. The discounts have been calculated on previously existing rates. Total amount of discounts expressed in the promotion refer to the absolute value of discount vs previous rate.

This promo is combinable with all discount promotions, including MSC Voyagers Club 5%, Voyagers Exclusives 5+5% and Honeymoon packages, whilst for Senior and Young it is subject to availability. If customers book the WAVE “All inclusive” promotion onboard an MSC ship with the Future Cruise team, they will receive all the corresponding onboard benefits. If customers have a future cruise discount voucher, they can apply this to a cruise in the WAVE “All inclusive” promotion. If customers have an FCC voucher for a re-protected sailing, they can apply this to a cruise in the WAVE “All inclusive” promotion.

All guests travelling together must be on the same experience type and drinks package for dining and travel with arrangements. During the WAVE “All inclusive” Campaign, for sailings included, the promotion will be visible on our trade partner booking platform, MSC Book, at the time of the booking under the following price descriptions:

‘Cruise Only’, ‘All Inclusive Cruise Only’, ‘Fly & Cruise’, ‘All Inclusive Fly & Cruise’,

Only bookings taken under ‘All Inclusive Cruise Only’, ‘All Inclusive Fly & Cruise’,  price descriptions will receive the Premium Extra Drinks Package. The Premium Extra Drinks Package allows the guests to enjoy whilst on board, unlimited consumption of all drinks priced up to €14. For more information, please visit https://www.msccruises.co.uk/on-board/dining-drinks/drinks-packages.

Other terms & conditions may apply. Flights and any other add-ons including shore excursions will be available at the current selling rates, payable by all guests under the same booking unless clearly stated in the offer.

For general bookings terms & conditions, inclusions, cancellation charges and other information please visit www.msccruises.co.uk FLIGHTS TERMS & CONDITIONS

For Fly Cruise reservations we charge an additional deposit amount of £150 (on top of the cruise deposit of £100), hence a total deposit of £250 per person at the time of booking, including infants up to 2 years old. Cancellation of the flights will be at full penalty. For cancellations and amendments, please refer to our general Terms and Conditions

Thank you for visiting MSC Cruises

Your browser may be out of date or not compatible with our new site and may not be secure.

For a better experience and to continue your booking with MSC, please update your browser by downloading the latest version below.

Thank you for visiting our site and we look forward to seeing you on board soon!

MSC Cruises