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Caribbean Weather by Month: The Best Time for a Caribbean Cruise

Adam Stewart

  • January 1, 2024
  • Cruise Planning

Caribbean

When you think about cruising to the Caribbean, the first thing that probably comes to mind is warm, tropical climate. Indeed, the Caribbean is an ideal cruise destination for those seeking refuge from the cold, as it maintains consistently hot temperatures year-round. 

If you’re planning a cruise to the Caribbean, expect temperatures of around 80°F (27°C), with daytime highs of up to 90°F (32°C). The climate also tends to be quite humid, particularly during the wet season. 

January is the coolest month in the Caribbean, a time when the region experiences a mild and more temperate climate. Destinations like Puerto Rico, Turks and Caicos, The Bahamas, and Roatán are known for a subtle drop in temperature, offering a refreshing change from their typically warmer weather.

Seasons in the Caribbean: Dry Season and Wet Season

The Caribbean experiences two distinct seasons: the dry season, which lasts from December to May, and the wet season, lasting from June to November. The wet season is also known as the hurricane season. During the dry season, the weather is more stable and sunny, making it an ideal time for tourism. On the other hand, the wet season brings more rainfall and higher humidity, along with the increased chance of tropical storms and hurricanes.

When is the Hurricane Season in the Caribbean?

The peak of the hurricane season in the Caribbean lasts from August to mid-October. If you’re seeking a safe and enjoyable Caribbean cruise during this period, consider the ABC Islands (Aruba, Bonaire, and Curacao), as they typically remain dry and are rarely affected by hurricanes.

Caribbean Weather in January

There’s no better way to start the New Year than a cruise to the Caribbean! 

In January, the Caribbean experiences temperatures ranging from 80°F to 85°F (27°C to 29°C). You’ll find the southern Caribbean is generally warmer than other areas. Meanwhile, the eastern Caribbean enjoys slightly cooler temperatures, often in the high 70s.

Rainfall is rare in January, and when it does occur, it is likely to clear up fast. January is the coldest month in North America and Europe, so you can expect a lot of tourists to come at this time. 

Caribbean Weather in February

In February, the Caribbean enjoys warm, sunny weather similar to January. Temperatures reach 86°F (30°C) in southern islands like Aruba, and around 78°F (25°C) in northern islands like Cuba and The Bahamas.

February is also a popular month to book a romantic couples’ cruise, thanks to Valentine’s Day, which falls on February 14th.

Oranjestad Aruba (1)

Caribbean Weather in March

March sees a lot of activity in the Caribbean, largely due to the consistently warm and dry weather. This attracts masses of spring breakers and snowbirds to the Caribbean to escape the cold.

In March, you can expect mostly dry weather. The only exception is Bermuda, which experiences an average of 4.3 inches of rain during this month.

In the northern parts of the Caribbean, temperatures start to rise, while the southern islands experience blistering heat. Average daytime temperatures hover around 84°F (29°C) during March.

Caribbean Weather in April

In April, it’s really hot across the Caribbean. The temperature usually goes up to about 85°F (29°C). Trinidad claims the title of the hottest location, with an average high of 91°F (33°C), whereas the Bahamas offers a cooler climate with an average high of 82°F (27°C).

Puerto Rico’s wet season begins in April, with the island averaging almost five inches of rain during April. 

April is the perfect month for swimming and water activities in the Caribbean, where the average ocean temperature reaches a warm 27°C (80°F).

San Juan Puerto Rico

Caribbean Weather in May

In May, the Caribbean’s shoulder season begins, making it the perfect time for those seeking an affordable escape from the cold. As May progresses, humidity levels rise, and temperatures typically reach the mid to upper 80s.

The Caribbean’s dry season comes to a close in May. Although you may encounter occasional rainfall during this month, it typically clears up quickly.

Temperatures in the northern Caribbean continue to rise in May, with the Bahamas reaching an average high of 85°F (30°C). 

Caribbean Weather in June

June is the first month of the wet season in the Caribbean, yet the chance of showers remains low across most islands. Expect an average of 6.1 inches of rainfall this month, with rain occurring on about 13 days.

The hurricane season in the Caribbean officially begins in June. Although don’t let this scare you from cruising, as the chance of experiencing a hurricane this month is still low. Don’t forget that June is still part of the shoulder period, so expect great deals on resorts and cruises. 

In June, the climate remains quite humid, with temperatures ranging between 77°F and 88°F (25°C to 31°C). Additionally, you’ll find that temperatures in the northern Caribbean start to resemble those in the south.

Nassau Bahamas

Caribbean Weather in July

July brings increased rainfall, averaging around 6 inches and typically having 14 rainy days. Trinidad, known as one of the rainiest islands in the Caribbean, receives an average of 7.6 inches of rain with approximately 21 rainy days in July.

July is still within the hurricane season, but it’s a month before the season’s peak. A good vacation option during this time is the ABC islands (Aruba, Bonaire, and Curacao), which are less prone to hurricanes and storms. 

Weather during July ranges from the mid 80s to low 90s. July is the perfect month for snorkeling as the ocean remains pleasantly warm, with an average temperature of 83°F (28°C).

Caribbean Weather in August

If you’re traveling to the Caribbean in August, expect warm and humid weather, typically in the high 80s to low 90s. In Cozumel , the average high is around 91°F (33°C), while places like St. Lucia and Barbados are a bit cooler, averaging highs of 87°F (30°C).

August is a rainy month in certain Caribbean areas. St. Lucia, for example, experiences 21 rainy days with an average of 6.2 inches of rain. In contrast, Aruba and Curacao are much drier, with each averaging less than 2 inches of rain per month.

Be aware that August marks the start of the peak hurricane season. To minimize the chance of encountering bad weather, consider traveling to the ABC islands (Aruba, Bonaire, and Curacao).

St. Lucia

Caribbean Weather in September

September kicks off the school year and the peak hurricane season, so expect small crowds. The weather generally sees temperatures soaring to the high 80s.

September is the month with the highest rainfall, with some areas getting over 13 inches of rain. The Cayman Islands and St. Lucia are among the rainiest locations, each experiencing 20 days of downpour.

While September might not sound like the ideal month for traveling, you can still visit the Caribbean if you choose the ABC islands (Aruba, Bonaire, and Curacao). These islands enjoy dry conditions and a lower risk of hurricanes, making them a popular destination in September.

Caribbean Weather in October

With October’s arrival, the peak hurricane season comes to an end. The early part of the month presents the greatest hurricane risk. However, encountering a storm is more probable than facing a hurricane during this month.

Rainfall in October is generally less frequent compared to September. The ABC islands (Aruba, Bonaire, and Curacao) continue to offer dry conditions, making them perfect travel destinations.

The weather in the Caribbean is still warm during October, reaching average highs in the mid to upper 80s. 

Caribbean Weather in November

In November, the likelihood of hurricanes is quite low, with the official end of the hurricane season on November 30. While there’s still a notable chance of rainfall, it’s lower compared to September and October.

The weather stays pleasantly warm, with average temperatures hovering between the 70s and 80s throughout the month.

For a November getaway, consider Curaçao and Jamaica, both of which typically receive less than 4 inches of rain, making them ideal destinations.

Willemstad Curacao

Caribbean Weather in December

As December brings colder temperatures to the northern hemisphere, expect plenty of people escaping to the Caribbean to avoid the cold. Expect high prices at the end of the month as Christmas draws near. Temperatures during December reach average highs in the mid 80s, though it can reach the low 70s during night.

The risk of rain is relatively low at this time of the year, though you might experience the occasional shower. Additionally, December also marks the first month outside of the hurricane season. 

Final Words

The Caribbean is the perfect retreat from the harsh winter cold. If you’re considering a cruise to the Caribbean, the best time to go is during the dry season, which lasts from December to May. Keep in mind that this period is also the peak season, potentially resulting in higher costs. For those on a tighter budget, consider cruising between May and July, which falls within the shoulder season.

The ABC islands (Aruba, Bonaire, and Curacao) stand out as excellent spots to cruise to during the hurricane season, thanks to their dry climate and low hurricane risk. When it comes to the rest of the Caribbean, it’s best to avoid visiting during the peak hurricane season unless you are prepared for itinerary changes and frequent downpours.

Related articles:

  • Cruise Ports in the Western Caribbean You should Visit
  • Eastern vs. Western Caribbean Cruises: Which One is Better?
  • Cruise Ports in the Western Caribbean Islands You Should Visit

Adam Stewart

Adam Stewart

Adam Stewart is the founder of Cruise Galore. He is a passionate traveler who loves cruising. Adam's goal is to enhance your cruising adventures with practical tips and insightful advice, making each of your journeys unforgettable.

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Caribbean beach sunset with palm trees.

Caribbean Weather by Month

The Caribbean is a tropical paradise with idyllic conditions year-round. However, some people like it on the breezy side, while others prefer it toasty. Learn all about Caribbean weather by month to time your Caribbean cruise just right.

Caribbean Seasons

Many places in the world have four seasons, but the Caribbean has two: a dry season (typically December-May) and a wet season (usually June-November). The dry season has the most pleasant weather with warm, sunny days and blue skies. Rain is more frequent in the wet season, but the temperatures are higher. 

Wet season and dry season are both  good times to cruise the Caribbean . The worst time for a Caribbean cruise weather-wise is August to September, as it is peak hurricane season. 

Caribbean Weather in January

When it’s teeth-chattering cold in many places, the Caribbean beckons with temps in the low to mid 80s. January is the driest month in the Caribbean. The occasional downpour still may surprise you, so add a raincoat to your  Caribbean packing list .

Caribbean weather varies. If you like swimming and snorkeling in warm waters, consider a  Southern Caribbean cruise  to Aruba, one of the Caribbean’s hottest islands. If you prefer daytime temps in the breezy high 70s, an Eastern Caribbean cruise might be a better option.

When the sun goes down, it cools considerably. Pack sweaters or light jackets for stargazing on deck or  watching poolside movies  on board.

Couple standing on a white-sand beach in the Caribbean.

Caribbean Weather in February

With long stretches of sunshine, temperatures in the low to mid 80s, and only the occasional brief shower, it’s no surprise February is one of the busiest months for tourism across the Caribbean. For the warmest temperatures, opt for Southern Caribbean cruises—the closer you are to the equator, the better.

February is the perfect time to book a romantic couples’ cruise and celebrate Valentine’s Day in tropical paradise.

Caribbean Weather in March

March is peak season for travel to the Caribbean, thanks to consistently warm, dry weather—and masses of spring breakers and snowbirds flocking to the islands to escape the cold. Expect temperatures in the low to mid 80s and little rainfall.

If you’re set on traveling to the Caribbean in March, be sure to book your flights, cruise, and activities well in advance to avoid disappointment.

Caribbean Weather in April

April is warmer but rainier. Most destinations enjoy temperatures in the mid to upper 80s. Swimming is comfortable throughout the Caribbean. Dip into crystalline waters—snorkel the kaleidoscopic reefs around  Grand Turk  or ride horses into the surf on  Half Moon Cay .

The end of April is known as “shoulder season”, which is the travel period between peak season and off-season in the Caribbean. This often means you can enjoy fewer crowds and lower prices than peak season, and better weather than off-season.

Horseback riding on a cruise to Castries, St. Lucia shore excursion

Caribbean Weather in May

In May, rainfall is slightly heavier and humidity levels start to increase, with temperatures in the mid to upper 80s. However, you can still expect plenty of clear skies and pleasant days.

The beaches and roads tend to be quieter in May, making it a great time to book a variety of shore excursions .

Caribbean Weather in June

June kicks off the wet season in most Caribbean areas, but the weather is still balmy, and the risk of showers is low. Temperatures in June are in the mid 80s and into the 90s with high humidity.

Beat the heat and rain at one of many museums. Duck into the Hemingway House in Key West to see where Ernest Hemingway once lived and wrote.

Caribbean Weather in July

During July, temperatures reach the high 80s and low 90s, and there is more rainfall. Humidity is high. Although July is part of hurricane season, it’s not at its peak. If you’re willing to chance a few tropical storms, now is a great time to avoid crowds.

Port of Bonaire in Kralendijk, Caribbean Netherlands

Caribbean Weather in August

Temperatures continue to soar in the high 80s and low 90s, with high humidity. Hurricane season also starts heating up this month. If you’re planning a trip to the Caribbean in August, you may want to stick to the ABC islands ( Aruba , Bonaire , and Curacao ), which typically see fewer storms and are considered low-risk options to visit during hurricane season.

Caribbean Weather in September

September is one of the quietest months, as it’s peak hurricane season. Temperatures typically hit the high 80s, with summer humidity still lingering. Rainfall is also high, so packing rain gear is a must. If you do decide to venture to the Caribbean in September, the ABC islands might be your best bet.

Caribbean Weather in October

In October, the weather is in the mid to upper 80s, and the beaches stay toasty, though there’s still a risk of hurricanes early in the month.

Palm trees on a white beach

Caribbean Weather in November

The Caribbean weather in November is like early summer with sporadic showers and temps in the 70s and 80s. Hurricane season officially ends November 30.

Caribbean Weather in December

December rolls in as one of the most popular months to cruise the Caribbean because of those looking to trade in white snow for white sand and gray skies for sunshine.

December is one of the best months to celebrate in sunshine. Bring the whole family together on a holiday cruise and leave the cooking and cleaning to us. 

Caribbean Weather FAQs

When is the best month to go to the caribbean.

Weather-wise, mid-December through mid-March is the best time for a Caribbean cruise . These are the driest months, with sunny skies, little rainfall, and pleasantly moderate temperatures. Expect average lows in the 70s and highs in the 80s.

What's the rainiest month in the Caribbean?

While Caribbean weather varies by region, wet season runs from June through November, with many areas experiencing their rainiest months in September and October.

What are the average high and low temperatures in the Caribbean?

The Caribbean islands enjoy a hot, tropical climate year-round, with temperatures for most destinations ranging from the low 80s Fahrenheit (high 20s Celsius) in the winter to the high 80s Fahrenheit (low 30s Celsius) in the summer.

When is hurricane season in the Caribbean?

Hurricane season in the Caribbean generally runs from June 1 to November 30, typically peaking in August and September. Keep yourself well-prepared by checking the National Hurricane Center for updates before you travel.

Plan Your Cruise to the Caribbean

Get ready for sun-kissed shores and gentle breezes. Start planning your cruise with our helpful Caribbean cruise tips and travel articles .

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Caribbean Cruise Weather – Best and Worst Months to Go

caribbean cruise weather best time

Wondering about Caribbean cruise weather and the best and worst time to cruise? We’ve got you covered.

Caribbean Cruise Weather – Best and Worst Months to Go By Scott Bateman

Caribbean cruise weather has fewer risks for vacationers planning a trip at sea rather than spending a week on an island for a simple reason — the ship can move away from bad weather while an island can’t.

Someone may one day invent detachable islands, but in the meantime vacationers should consider two major factors related to weather in planning a cruise. First is the annual Caribbean hurricane season and second is the temperature drop during the winter — especially for the sea water.

Hurricane Season

The hurricane season runs from June 1 until November 30, but the region has on average few storms in June and November. July averages three storms, while August, September and October average four, according to the U.S. National Weather Service.

Storms in August and October have a moderate risk of developing into hurricanes while September has the highest risk of all.

For these reasons, September is the worst month of the year to take a cruise. April and May are excellent times to go because they are outside of the hurricane season, although some Caribbean destinations see more rainfall than normal in May.

Families considering a cruise with children on summer break should take advantage of June in particular because of the lower storm risk, followed by July.

caribbean cruise weather best and worst time to go

Air and Water Temperatures

The Caribbean has a reputation for year-round warmth. While it’s mostly true, there are some modest variations in temperature from month to month. Air and water temperatures are noticeably cooler in the northern climates during the winter, which makes a Bahamas cruise less appealing from December through February.

Anyone interested in taking a Caribbean cruise in the winter should consider a southern cruise as a better option for warmer weather than either an eastern or western cruise.

Eastern, Western or Southern?

Each of the three major destinations has varying conditions by month. Western cruises in particular are known for heavy rainfall in the interiors of the Central American countries that lie along the Caribbean coast, such as Costa Rica and Belize.

The wet interiors are a major factor in planning day-long excursions to Mayan ruins, cave tubing, zip lining, etc. The same is largely true of the Mexican island of Cozumel.

Despite the heavy fall rains, western cruises tend to be more popular in the fall than eastern in part because the Central American destinations see fewer effects from hurricanes.

No matter which cruise you take, know that the risk of bad weather goes up in the fall and that whether you like to swim or lie on the beach will be sorely tested if you visit the more northern destinations in the winter.

Click Caribbean cruise weather for temperatures and rainfall by month. Also get 7-day forecasts for Eastern, Western and Southern cruises.

See Caribbean cruise vacations with tips on every major destination.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/expert/Scott_Bateman/167987

http://EzineArticles.com/?Caribbean-Cruise-Weather—Best-and-Worst-Months-to-Go&id=4266416

See more articles here .

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The best time to cruise to the Caribbean

Melinda Crow

When is the best time to cruise to the Caribbean? The easy answer is whenever it suits you. There's never a bad time to cruise to this giant blue fishbowl with a bazillion beaches to explore. That's because Caribbean is warm and mostly sunny year-round. You can find hundreds of cruise options every single month.

That's not to say that every season is the same. If I had to pick based on weather, cost and crowds, I'd vote winter as the best time to cruise the Caribbean.

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

If I were to narrow it down even further, I'd say the best time to cruise to the Caribbean is early December. It's a fun way to create a break between Thanksgiving and the December holidays. Picture yourself shopping for unique gifts after your snorkel excursion or before your spa appointment instead of slogging through slushy mall parking lots with the tip of your nose threatening to freeze, and I think you'll agree.

Here's how the entire year stacks up so you can identify the best time for your travel party to cruise the Caribbean .

caribbean cruises weather

Winter: Moderate fares and quiet crowds (except during the holidays)

Let's start with my favorite time to cruise the Caribbean: winter (December/January/February). The temperatures throughout the region are a couple of degrees cooler than the rest of the year, and the average UV index dips down to 5 or 6 (moderate to high exposure). Rain typically comes in the form of passing afternoon showers, not tropical storms.

Except for the weeks that include holidays , ships aren't likely to be at capacity or filled with screaming children. Fares in winter are a bit below the yearly average (excluding the holiday weeks, which are often the highest of the year). Plus, there are deals available that bring prices down even lower. Look particularly at last-minute options and those first two weeks in December.

Ships that sail seasonally in Alaska and Europe often call the waters of the Caribbean home for a few months in winter. That adds up to more choices during this time of year.

If there are cruise lines or specific ships you would like to try, winter in the Caribbean is an ideal time to test them out — especially luxury and premium lines that often feature lower prices on Caribbean sailings than on their cruises elsewhere in the world. If you prefer childless cruising during the holidays, you can choose an adults-only cruise line like Viking.

Related: The best Caribbean cruises for every type of traveler

The weather at home can be unpredictable in the winter, possibly affecting your departure travel plans and preventing you from reaching your Caribbean cruise. Plus, winter storms in the U.S. can increase wave action in the Atlantic and in the Gulf of Mexico. The farther north your departure port, the more likely you are to experience a rough ride until your ship sails south into calmer water.

While most of the season offers moderate fares, if your cruise dates are limited to holiday breaks, be prepared for prices close to double what you'd pay during the few weeks before that. Book holiday sailings well in advance to find lower fares.

caribbean cruises weather

Spring: Near-perfect weather with spring break crowds

If you don't mind spring break crowds, spring is a wonderful time to cruise. The weather in the Caribbean in March, April and May is idyllic, and the seas are likely to be calm. Plus, escaping the last of winter's wrath at home can be just what the doctor ordered to save your sanity.

Prices during the first week of March aren't too high before they edge up throughout the rest of the month. Deals are also possible in early May. If your aim is to cruise with your own children while they are on break, there are plenty of ships with age-appropriate facilities. You'll have options like splash zones for the little ones, monster slides for the adventurers and kids clubs for all ages. Don't forget indoor activities such as laser tag and ice skating.

Related: Caribbean cruise packing list: What to pack for a tropical sailing

The spring break rowdies start in March and often continue well into April. Soon after, in mid-May, the graduation parties begin. If your goal is to avoid crowds of kids and partiers, skip the cheapest and shortest cruises, as well as cruise ships with water parks and thrill rides.

Be aware that spring break is high season for travel disruptions caused by peak demand. Airlines may overbook. I was once bumped from a flight home after a spring cruise when a high school Spanish club from Wisconsin needed the seats to travel home together as a group. I was compensated and flew out the next day, but what if I had been bumped on my cruise embarkation day? If you plan a springtime Caribbean cruise, have a backup plan, including travel insurance, in case your travel itinerary gets rearranged at the last minute.

Summer: Fewer storms, many families and prices that may beat land-based trips

caribbean cruises weather

Summer cruising in the Caribbean is ideal for lovers of sun, sea and sand looking for a fun escape with their kids or grandchildren while school is out. June, July and August temperatures average near 90 degrees throughout the region. While there's a possibility of tropical storms or hurricanes, the Atlantic hurricane season doesn't peak until late August through October.

These are the months when you rarely need to worry about weather shutting down onboard water attractions or causing cancellations of your in-port fun. Summer months are also perfect for multi-generational cruising, as they are often the only months when everyone's schedules align. And when you have a group to manage, you need as many activities as possible to keep everyone entertained. Summer cruises in the Caribbean make that easy with plenty of options, both on board and in port.

Cruise fares are higher overall in summer than in the other three seasons. Ships sail at or near capacity. Even the ports themselves will likely be crowded. Shops and attractions will overflow with passengers from other ships and land-based vacationers.

You'll also need to plan for mosquitos in port and for serious sun protection. Most of the Caribbean averages a UV index of 7 (considered a high risk) during the summer months, holding at a high or extremely high level for long stretches of the day.

Related: Eastern Caribbean vs. Western Caribbean cruises: Which itinerary will I like more?

Despite high fares, summer cruise pricing and crowd levels stack up favorably against most land-based vacations. Once you factor in the included meals, entertainment and activities on a cruise, then consider traffic congestion, long lines and skyrocketing hotel costs associated with other vacation options like theme parks and even popular national parks, a summer Caribbean cruise with the family can seem downright affordable and less anxiety-filled.

Fall: Low prices, low occupancy, risky weather

Fall, especially September and early October, is not a bad time to cruise to the Caribbean – unless you are a worrier or someone who can't go with the flow when travel plans go awry. That's because the autumn months are the peak season for hurricanes and tropical storms. When it isn't stormy, it might still be a bit warm and sticky for some early in the season. Temperatures remain near the 90-degree range well into October.

The weather isn't all bad in the fall and Caribbean cruises prices are low during these months. I've been on lovely cruises in the Caribbean in September and October with calm seas and uncrowded, quiet ships, all at a fraction of the price of cruises just a handful of weeks earlier in the year. If saving money and avoiding the spring and summer crowds is your aim, and you are the kind of cruiser who will sing in a rowboat in the rain if it gets you away from home, then fall is perfect for you.

Related: The 9 best fall cruise itineraries

Weather happens -- and in the Caribbean, it happens a lot in September and October. Even if a hurricane doesn't cause you grief, rain might. A few years ago, I cruised the Western Caribbean near the end of October and it poured the whole time. I had no idea it could rain that hard in Cozumel, a desert island. And Grand Cayman? That's where I learned the meaning of the word "torrential." Even with all that rain, it wasn't a bad cruise. The rain didn't interfere with my scuba diving plans.

November feels like a bonus cruise month. The temperatures have dropped a few degrees from summer's heat and the chance of storms has mostly passed. Extra ships begin arriving for their winter season and prices remain low for most of the month. Back home, everyone else is busy buying turkeys and cranberries and catering to the in-laws. You, however, could be lounging on deck sipping a frozen tropical concoction while waiting for your samba class to start.

Bottom line

Now we're back where we started – with you booking a Caribbean cruise that works for you and your travel group. Each season has something to offer someone, which is what makes this whole year-round Caribbean cruise thing work. If we all thought early December was truly the best time to cruise to the Caribbean, it would cease to be so.

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November in the Caribbean: Weather, What to Pack, and What to See

caribbean cruises weather

Christian Wheatley / Getty Images

Although the Caribbean has pretty much become a year-round tourist and romantic destination, the peak winter travel season doesn't start until December. November is still considered the shoulder season when you can find killer airfares and great deals on accommodations. Or if you've ever wanted to try a Caribbean cruise , several cruise lines offer special promotions to entice would-be travelers during the tourist low season.

Even though the dry season across the region is from December to April, you'll pay a lot less to travel in November and the weather overall is still perfect for sitting out at the beach. However, some islands get significantly more rain than others, so take a look before booking that too-good-to-be-true deal.

Hurricane Season

The official end of the hurricane season in the Caribbean is on November 30 and storms are always a possibility. However, November is the least active month in the Atlantic hurricane season and the probability of encountering a storm is very low. Just in case, make sure your accommodations include some type of guarantee in case you need to cancel due to weather, and consider buying travel insurance. You can also look into islands that are less likely to experience storms, such as Aruba or Barbados.

Caribbean Weather in November

Temperatures across the Caribbean are warm and balmy in November, making it an ideal escape from the oncoming winter up north. While there is a remote possibility of a hurricane, more likely than not the biggest issue you'll come across is rain. November is the transition month from the rainy season to the dry season, so even though the occasional downpour is likely, there's much less precipitation and lower humidity than visiting in the peak of summer.

Even though November is generally still considered a wet month, rain typically comes in short and intense downpours instead of long days of nonstop showers. Even if your trip is punctuated with daily storms, you should still be able to enjoy plenty of sunshine throughout the day to make the most of your vacation. The water temperature of the Caribbean Sea hovers around a constant 81 degrees Fahrenheit (27 degrees Celsius) all year long, so even in November, you can comfortably swim and hang out at the beach.

What to Pack

When packing for the Caribbean in November, you'll definitely need to bring all your beach gear. Even if you're fleeing winter weather back home, you won't need any heavy jackets or sweaters on the islands. However, at least one lightweight and waterproof jacket is necessary in case you get caught in a rainstorm. If you're planning to eat out in finer restaurants or spend a night out in the clubs, you should also pack some dressier items and not just resort wear.

Summer may feel over by the time November arrives, but don't forget to bring other warm-weather essentials like sunscreen and a hat. Since you'll be in the tropics, mosquitoes are ubiquitous regardless of what island you visit. Don't forget insect repellant and even some lightweight clothing that covers your arms and legs.

November Events in the Caribbean

Despite being the shoulder season, there are plenty of events happening around the Caribbean to keep visitors entertained in November. From pirate festivals to several different boozy events, don't miss out on the region's most popular activities.

  • Pirates Week : The annual ​​Pirates Week in the Cayman Islands celebrates the nation's cultural heritage and pirate legends. Spectators are treated to parades, firework displays, street dances, and costume contests. Each of the three Cayman Islands holds individual Pirates Week celebrations, with the biggest festivities taking place on Grand Cayman from November 19–24, 2020.
  • Barbados Food & Rum Festival : The three-day Barbados Food and Rum Festival is a series of culinary experiences with acclaimed chefs, rum experts, and mixologists. There are food and rum pairing events, fine dining that pairs local chefs with international ones, and a beach party at the Hilton Resort Barbados with live music and food tasting stations. It typically takes place during the first weekend of November, but the festival is canceled in 2020.
  • Divali (Diwali) : The Hindu Festival of Lights is a public holiday on the islands of Trinidad and Tobago, where about a third of the population traces its roots back to India. But for Divali, the whole nation comes together to celebrate, not just Hindus. The Divali Nagar —or City of Lights—in the city of Chaguanas is one of the largest holiday celebrations outside of India. The festival takes place over days and the exact dates change each year, but the main festivities revolve around November 14 in 2020.
  • Thanksgiving : Just because you're leaving home during the Thanksgiving holiday doesn't necessarily mean you're willing to give up the typical feast. If you want to celebrate Thanksgiving away from home, you'll have no trouble finding turkey dinners in restaurants of U.S. islands, such as Puerto Rico or the U.S. Virgin Islands . Even many resorts in other islands host Thanksgiving meals for American guests.

November Travel Tips

  • Although November overall is considered the low season for tourists, the Caribbean is a popular destination for Thanksgiving getaways. Be sure to plan ahead if you're traveling during the holiday weekend.
  • Keep a close eye on the weather forecasts right before your trip to make sure no storms are expected.
  • If you'll be island hopping, book inter-island flights online and in advance to get the best deals.
  • Between the heat, humidity, and piña coladas, it's easy to get dehydrated. Always pack bottles of water when going to the beach or sightseeing to stay refreshed.

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Caribbean cruise line cancels trip to this island port due to surge in gang violence

  • Published: Apr. 27, 2024, 10:57 a.m.

Royal Caribbean

Royal Caribbean has cancelled all stops to Labadee, the cruise line’s private port, due to continued gang violence in Haiti, according to post on the Royal Caribbean Blog. (AP Photo/Lynne Sladky, File) AP

Royal Caribbean has cancelled all stops to Labadee, the cruise line’s private port, due to continued gang violence in Haiti, according to post on the Royal Caribbean Blog .

While Royal Caribbean canceled stops to the private beach from March through May earlier this year, that directive has now been extended through September, according to the blog .

“Guests booked on cruises in the summer and early fall are getting notifications from Royal Caribbean that their visits to Labadee have been canceled,” the blog said. “On Tuesday (April 23), cruisers began to share updates they received from Royal Caribbean that their itineraries have been updated to drop Labadee and replace it with another port or a sea day.”

More than 2,500 people were killed or injured from January to March alone in Haiti, which has been overrun by gang violence, according to the Associated Press. More than 90,000 Haitians have escaped the capital of Port-au-Prince, which is now 80% controlled by gangs, said the news outlet.

Port-au-Prince, Haiti

Pedestrians cross a street as police patrol in an armored vehicle in the Delmas neighborhood of Port-au-Prince, Haiti, which has been overrun with gang violence. (AP Photo/Odelyn Joseph) AP

On its website, Royal Caribbean describes Labadee as a private destination where “beachside meets mountainside” on Haiti’s northern coast.

“Here you’ll find pristine sands, coral reefs and jungle-covered hilltops nestling lagoon-like bays. There’s no shortage of places to relax and recharge across five stretches of beach,” the website says. “Or dial up the thrills on an active adventure like a half-mile-long zip line ride over the ocean. And fascinating culture, history and the natural beauty of Haiti’s spectacular coasts wait to be discovered around every corner. Escape to the Western Caribbean for a wilder way to experience paradise.”

Royal Caribbean International made no formal announcements on its website of the suspension of stops to Labadee. Royal Caribbean Blog is an unofficial site for fans of the cruise line and is not affiliated with Royal Caribbean International, reported SILive.com ’s sister site, Cleveland.com .

Tracey Porpora

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Popular cruise line cancels more stops to this popular Caribbean destination

  • Published: Apr. 25, 2024, 11:32 a.m.

Royal Caribbean Cruise Lines vessel Serenade of the Seas.

Royal Caribbean Cruise Lines vessel Serenade of the Seas. © Dan Lamont

Royal Caribbean Cruise Line has canceled more stops to the line’s private beach in Haiti, citing safety concerns.

According to RoyalCaribbeanblog.com , the website that tracks the cruise line, guests who are booked on cruises in the summer and early fall are getting notifications from Royal Caribbean that their visits to Labadee have been canceled.

This comes after the cancellations implemented in March were set to last through the end of May 2024 due to the ongoing turmoil in Haiti. Now the line has been forced to cancel more cruises through September 2024.

The Labadee drop from itineraries was replaced with visits to other destinations.

“Due to the continuing situation in Haiti, we’ll now visit Grand Turk, Turks & Caicos, instead of Labadee, Haiti,” the statement said in an email to booked passengers of [the ship] Adventure of the Seas, for example.

“We’re sorry for the change - your safety is our top priority.”

In addition to Adventure of the Seas, the cancellations affect multiple other Royal Caribbean ships as well, including Independence of the Seas, Liberty of the Seas, Freedom of the Seas, and Symphony of the Seas.

Guests who were scheduled to visit the dropped destination have expressed their disappointment on the RoyalCaribbeanBlog message boards.

“For the folks looking forward to Labadee, for the folks in Labadee, and for Royal, I am sorry this has been so tough,” one user named Wayno wrote.

“Understandable but sad as I was pumped to visit both private destinations in a single sailing,” another user named tntornadox wrote on another message board.

As previously reported , Royal Caribbean first announced back in March that its cruise liners won’t be stopping at its private beach for the time being “out of an abundance of caution” as the country struggles with rampant gang violence and political turmoil.

“Due to the evolving situation in Haiti, and in an abundance of caution, we’re temporarily suspending our visits to Labadee for our entire fleet,” Assistant Vice President Aurora Yera-Rodriguez said in a statement . “We continue to monitor and assess the situation with our Global Security & Intelligence Team.”

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Travel alert: Royal Caribbean cancels cruises to this island

Royal Caribbean Cruises has canceled more stops at a popular private resort in Haiti due to safety issues.

Guests who booked on cruises in the summer and early fall are receiving notifications from Royal Caribbean that their cruises to Labadee, a private resort on the northern coast of Haiti, have been canceled, according to royalcaribbeanblog.com , a website that reports on the cruise line.

After Royal Caribbean started to cancel trips to Haiti in March due to civil unrest in Haiti, the cruise line started to cancel more cruises into September, royalcaribbeanblog.com reported. The Royal Caribbean had previously canceled visits to Labadee through the end of this May.

  • Read More: Cruise line stops visits to popular Caribbean resort amid U.S. travel advisory

The private resort stop has since been replaced with another port or a day at sea, the royalcaribbeanblog.com reported. The cancellations affect ships such as Adventure of the Seas, Independence of the Seas, Liberty of the Seas, Freedom of the Seas and Symphony of the Seas.

The Royal Caribbean announced in March that it was suspending all calls to Labadee, according to cruiseindustrynews.com . The move came after the U.S. State Department announced a travel alert for people to not visit the country.

“The current security situation in Haiti is unpredictable and dangerous,” the U.S. State Department wrote in a press release in March. “We are aware that there are few or no commercial options to depart Haiti safely at this time. As they become available, we urge U.S. citizens to take advantage of them.”

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Western Caribbean Cruise Weather: Best Times to Go

The best times to take a western Caribbean cruise are usually late spring to early summer.

Western Caribbean cruise weather is mild in the spring, hot in the summer and rainy in the fall.

The western Caribbean is made up of a small number of islands such as Cozumel, Jamaica, Roatan off Honduras and the Cayman Islands.

It also includes the Central American countries that face the Caribbean Sea, especially Panama, Belize and Costa Rica.

Most western Caribbean cruises include some combination of the above destinations.

Western Caribbean Temperatures

Most destinations have average high temperatures each month ranging from the mid-80s Fahrenheit in the winter to the high 80s and even low 90s in the summer.

Jamaica, the Cayman Islands, Cozumel and Panama have average high temperatures above 90 degrees Fahrenheit during the summer months. They are the warmest of the western Caribbean cruise destinations.

Belize and Costa Rica are not as warm in part because of the cooler rain forests and mountainous areas.

Average low temperatures for the region range from the mid 60s to the low 70s Fahrenheit in the winter to the mid 70s and sometimes higher in the summer.

Keep in mind that low air temperatures also mean low seawater temperatures for people who like swimming and sunbathing. The Cayman Islands have the coolest lows of any destination in the region.

Western Caribbean Hurricane Season

The annual western Caribbean hurricane season goes from June 1 to Nov. 30. The months with the most storms and hurricanes—usually two to four per month—are August, September and October. Most destinations have the highest rainfall in September and October.

Total rain can go as high as eight to 10 inches in a single month for places such as Cozumel, a popular cruise port of call. Costa Rica often has much more, but much of it falls inland rather than on the coast. Note that inland excursions such as the country’s popular zip lining have a high chance of rain.

Grand Cayman and Jamaica also have high amounts of rain historically from August through October, but not as much as Cozumel, Belize, Panama and Costa Rica.

Best Months to Go

The safest months for western Caribbean cruise weather are in the spring and summer for their combination of warm temperatures and relatively low amounts of rain.

The riskiest months are December through February because of cool temperatures and September and October because of heavy rain. However, the risky months also tend to have lower prices for cruises.

Even when forecasts call for rain, the rainfall may be brief and intense rather than long and steady. The forecast may call for rain when choosing a last-minute cruise, but the weather may still be good overall.

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U.S. travel alert: Cruise line cancels more visits to popular Caribbean destination

  • Updated: Apr. 24, 2024, 10:55 p.m. |
  • Published: Apr. 24, 2024, 11:09 a.m.

caribbean cruises weather

Royal Caribbean Cruise Line has canceled more stops at one of its most popular destinations due to safety concerns.

RoyalCaribbeanblog.com, a website that tracks the line, reported guests booked in the summer and early fall are receiving notification their visits to Labadee, Haiti have been canceled. Labadee is a private resort operated by Royal Caribbean.

The line had previously canceled visits to Labadee through the end of May. The stop was replaced with visits to other destinations or a day at sea.

The cancellations affect several Royal Caribbean ships, including Adventure of the Seas, Independence of the Seas, Liberty of the Seas, Freedom of the Seas, and Symphony of the Seas, the website reported.

Royal Caribbean announced in March it was suspending calls to the resort on the northern coast of Haiti after the U.S. State Department issued an alert advising people not to visit the country. Haiti is at a Level Four travel advisory, alongside countries such as Russia, Syria and Burkina Faso, due to issues with “kidnapping, crime, civil unrest and poor healthcare infrastructure,” U.S. officials said.

Haiti is located on the island of Hispaniola with the Dominican Republic sharing the island to the east. The Dominican Republic is under a level 2 advisory with visitors urged to exercise increased caution.

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Carnival Cruise Line shares details on its 'naughty room'

Cruise-ship passengers have a lot of lingo that's unique to ships. 

Some of it explains itself. If you get invited to a "sailaway party," you can intuitively figure out what that means, but other terms are a little harder to understand.

Regular Royal Caribbean passengers, for example, might suggest you meet at "Schooner," while Celebrity Cruises passengers might opt for a drink at "Sunset." In both cases, the references are to bars that are staples for each cruise line. 

Related: Royal Caribbean's Captain Kate shares harrowing bad weather story

Every cruise line has touchpoints like those, where regulars know names, places and venues that can be used as shorthand. Regular passengers know that Royal Caribbean's buffet is the Windjammer, while Carnival's buffet is technically the Lido Marketplace, although most people simply call it the Lido.

Cruise ships also have unofficial lingo like Royal Caribbean's "washy washy" people. That's a reference to the people who stand in front of the WIndjammer buffet asking (or sometimes singing) people to wash their hands.

It's part of the cruising experience, but it can sometimes be hard to know when the wider cruise community has embraced a particular term. Carnival's brand ambassador, John Heald, recently used a cruise-lingo term and offered passengers clarity as to what it means.

Carnival explains its 'naughty room'

It's hard to know when cruise ship lingo has crossed from insider knowledge to the mainstream. Having Heald, who speaks to hundreds of thousands of Carnival Cruise Line ( CCL ) passengers, use a term, however, essentially makes it mainstream.

Heald recently discussed a note sent to him by an angry passenger.

"Mom and me were on the Valor back in March. We were called to the naughty room because we had a Kuppet portable washing machine in our big bag. We were treated like criminals and degraded. I hope Carnival will be more sympathetic to people and do away with this humiliating experience," the person, identified as "L," wrote.

Heald, first responded by trying to deescalate the situation and using a little of his trademark humor.

"Thank you and I am so sorry 'L' that this happened to you but, the team were doing their jobs and I promise the intention was not to 'humiliate you.' And who knew you could get portable washing machines? Not me," he wrote.

The brand ambassador then acknowledged what the "naughty room" refers to,

"I do have to say I always smile when I hear the place on deck 0 where these inspections are carried out referred to as 'the naughty room.' Where did this ever start? Was it my late Mum who came up with this?" he added.

Here's what's not allowed on Carnival ships

Carnival has a long list of banned items. Some, like weapons and firearms, are obvious, but others are less intuitive because you could use them at a land-based hotel. Heald made clear that the banned list evolves.

"Portable washing machines will be added to the prohibited list," he wrote.

Carnival outlined some details about its policies on its website, which includes many items that passengers may not expect.

"Electrical and household appliances containing any kind of heating element, such as irons, clothes steamers, immersion heaters, heating blankets, water heaters, coffee machines, hot plates, toasters, heating pads, humidifier, etc.," are banned by the cruise line.

Carnival also bans any power strips or plugs that include surge protector. Candles, or any open flame are also prohibited.

Some banned products, including dive knifes, are allowed as long as they are declared. Donna Contenta shared a post on Heald's page where she detailed getting sent to the naughty room.

"I went for a dive knife. It wasn’t that bad. We just had to follow the rules. we were able to take it when we got off the ship to go for a dive and turn it back in when we got back. It really wasn’t that big a deal," she wrote.

Many of the 1,500-plus comments shared positive stories about being sent to the naughty room.

ALSO READ: Royal Caribbean's Captain Kate shares harrowing bad weather story

"Yes, one time I had to go to the naughty room. It was due to having a small sewing kit that included a small pair of scissors in my suitcase. They couldn’t tell the size of the scissors and wanted to see them. I was able to leave with my bag intact," posted Susan Hartley.

A Carnival Cruise Line ship docked in port.

NBC Boston

Virginia man is latest American charged with ammunition possession in Turks and Caicos

Tyler wenrich, a 31-year-old virginia man, was arrested after ammunition was found in his luggage in turks and caicos while on a royal caribbean cruise, by ale zimmermann and leslie gaydos • published april 26, 2024 • updated on april 26, 2024 at 7:25 pm, what to know.

  • Three American tourists are detained on Turks and Caicos Islands for violating a strict firearm and ammunition law that carries a minimum 12-year sentence
  • Prosecutors in the country say if "exceptional circumstances" are found, offenders may instead receive fines or shorter sentences
  • The Transportation Security Administration found that ammunition was not detected in the bag of a U.S. citizen who flew from Will Rogers World Airport in Oklahoma to Turks and Caicos

The Transportation Safety Administration has admitted it failed to detect bullets in the luggage of American tourists who were later arrested on the Turks and Caicos Islands for possession of ammunition.

On Tuesday, another U.S. citizen, who has family in New England, was arrested and detained for the same charge, after stopping on the islands during a cruise.

Tyler Wenrich, 31, of Virginia is the latest American tourist charged with possession of ammunition in the Turks and Caicos Islands.

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Brian Hagerich of Pennsylvania and Ryan Watson of Oklahoma have also been charged. All three are fathers and are facing possible mandatory minimum 12-year prison sentences after they say they accidently left ammunition in their bags from previous trips.

We spoke with Wenrich's father about his son's arrest.

"He is terrified. I try to give him hope and some strength and he's hanging in there," Michael Wenrich said. "But, as you can imagine, his life, his wife, his child -- their lives and our lives have been overturned."

Wenrich tells us his son is in prison and is hoping to post bail next week. Tyler Wenrich is a paramedic and was on a Royal Caribbean cruise for a bachelor party trip. The ship stopped in Grand Turk on Tuesday.

"He boarded the airplane, went to Florida, got through security and got through security on to the ship," Michael Wenrich said. "When he left the ship to explore the island with his friends and came back, you go through security, and that's where they found two rounds in the bottom corner or whatever of his backpack. And they immediately took him into custody."

In a statement, TSA admits it missed the ammunition that was in Ryan Watson's bag when he boarded a plane in Oklahoma April 7.

"TSA takes its security mission very seriously. TSA can confirm that four rounds of ammunition were not detected in the traveler's bag during security screening at will Rogers World Airport," a spokesperson said. "TSA is here to protect our transportation security systems, and an oversight occurred that the agency is addressing internally."

NBC10 Boston asked the TSA if it was conducting security reviews at the airports in Pittsburgh and Richmond, where Hagerich and Wenrich went through security, respetively. The agency said it is only monitoring the situation involving one traveler that flew through Oklahoma City.

Tyler Wenrich is the VP of operations for Emergency Services Solutions in Virginia. His boss is vouching for his character.

"We understand this is a very serious situation, but we also know that the guy that you have is a special type of human being who we're going to help in any way possible," said Blanton Marchese, CEO of Emergency Services Solutions Inc. "Tyler's done nothing but serve the community that we live in with honor."

Wenrich's father is in Grand Turk and tells us they are taking the situation day by day.

"It's hard to comprehend. First, having your son in a foreign prison is mind-blowing and scary. Two, to get your head around two stray rounds in the bottom of a backpack could cost him 12 years in jail, it's … I can't comprehend it," said Michael Wenrich. "There are many tears and, you know, just trying to give him strength. And if I have to stay here longer … we're just going to do whatever it takes to give him the hope and support that he needs."

The attorney general and director of public prosecutions of Turks and Caicos issued a statement on Wednesday saying the island's firearm ordinance "requires the Supreme Court to impose a mandatory minimum sentence and fine for certain firearm offenses, except in circumstances where the court finds that there are exceptional circumstances."

The statement went on to add that there have been five separate cases within a two-year period where the Supreme Court on the islands have found exceptional circumstances. Four of the offenders were fined and one was given a custodial sentence below the mandatory minimum. Michael Grimm's eight-month sentence was below the mandatory minimum of 12 years in prison.

The director of public prosecutions said in a statement, "8 firearms and ammunitions prosecutions in total were done involving tourists from the United States, 3 of which are currently before the court with each of the defendants on bail."

Brian Hagerich is one of those three. He was let out on bail Friday pending his next hearing.

We asked Royal Caribbean why the ammunition wasn't detected before Wenrich boarded the ship. The company said it would look into the situation, but we have not heard back.

More on the Turks and Caicos Islands ammunition arrests

caribbean cruises weather

TSA reviews airport security after Turks and Caicos ammo arrests

caribbean cruises weather

US tourists face 12 years in prison for accidentally bringing ammo to Caribbean island

caribbean cruises weather

Mother's warning after son's 8-month Turks and Caicos prison sentence: ‘It's not behind us'

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I stayed in a balcony cabin on Royal Caribbean's 2 newest and largest cruise ships. One was clearly better — and $900 cheaper.

Icon of the Seas and Wonder of the Seas are Royal Caribbean's newest and largest cruise ships.

I stayed in both of their balcony staterooms — a $130-per-person-per-day difference.

Icon's pricier cabin looked more modern but lacked the functionality and comfort of Wonder's.

Do you know what $900 could buy you? More than three years of Netflix's premium plan, a new Gucci purse, or 2,059 spicy chicken McNuggets.

Or, in the case of Royal Caribbean's two largest and newest cruise ships , the cash could mean the difference between a cheap but functional balcony cabin and, ironically, a more expensive but less comfortable one.

Staterooms with balconies are the most popular cruise cabin category. After all, if you're going on a vacation at sea, wouldn't you want to be able to feel its breeze from your room?

But not all cabins with private outdoor spaces are created equal, even on two new mega-ships owned by the same cruise line.

I sailed on Royal Caribbean's Wonder of the Seas in 2022 and its larger successor, Icon of the Seas, in January.

Royal Caribbean assigned me an ocean-view balcony cabin for both complimentary sailings, the longest of which was three nights on Icon.

Both ships are operating seven-night cruises around the Caribbean in 2024.

About 66% of Wonder's cabins fall under the 'balcony' category. On Icon, they make up half of the staterooms.

Wonder of the Seas' balcony cabins start shy of $1,110 per person in 2024.

Even with nearly identical itineraries, the ones on Icon are, at their cheapest, a little more than $2,000 per person this year — or double that for the a New Year's cruise.

Wonder and Icon are the most boisterous, flamboyant, and overwhelming vessels I've ever boarded.

The pool decks were intensely colorful, the crowds were inescapable, and the long lists of activities and dining options were paralyzing.

So imagine my surprise when I unlocked my doors to find surprisingly bland rooms.

The neutral tans, blues, and whites did not scream "we belong on the world's biggest and most colorful cruise ships."

The vessels have an almost two-year age difference, as evidenced by some of their decor (mainly Icon's recessed mood lights and the more chic, darker wood tones).

But besides the light fixtures, rugs, and — frankly negligible — wall art and pillows, both cabins were fairly underwhelming compared to everything outside their front doors .

Aesthetics aside, let’s talk functionality.

Both had furnished 50-square-foot balconies.

Regarding the interior space, my 204-square-foot cabin on Icon of the Seas was 22 square feet larger than mine on Wonder.

In retrospect, I would've thought Icon's was smaller. More on that in a bit.

Both king-sized beds faced a television and some wall storage.

And both were flanked by light fixtures with built-in USB outlets, as is expected on most modern cruise ships.

The cruise line says the ships' balcony cabins use two twin mattresses that have been "converted" to make a king bed. It's a common practice I've never had an issue with — until Icon.

On Wonder, the plush pillows enveloped me the moment I laid down. I slept great. No complaints.

Unfortunately, I can't say the same for the new ship.

I (my back pain) could feel the hard ridge where the two mattresses met, making for a pretty miserable and uncomfortable sleep.

So much for starfishing — I kept to one side of the bed to avoid rolling over the bony bump.

For the most part, the living “rooms” were the same.

Both had the same furniture I see on almost every mass-market ship: a couch that could convert into a bed and a desk that extended into a dresser.

But storage, a high priority for cruisers, was organized differently.

Two thin wardrobes with drawers, hangars, and shelves surrounded either side of my bed on Wonder .

Icon, on the other hand, had one large wardrobe next to the living room.

Unfortunately, it had noticeably less shelving. And the metal bins let out ear-piercing screeches at every move — a lazy and annoying detail that the designers could've easily fixed with cheap felt pads.

So far, the differences have been small. But not for long.

I had two gripes with my Wonder bathroom: the lack of hair conditioner and the ill-positioned faucet that flooded the counter whenever I washed my hands.

I had the same issues on Icon. But that was the least of my concerns.

My bathroom on the older ship was well-sized for 1 person, but maybe too small for 2.

On Icon — the world's largest cruise ship — my bathroom was too compact for even one body.

Michael Bayley, the president and CEO of Royal Caribbean International, told reporters in January that 80% of Icon's 2,805 cabins were designed for families, a sharp increase from previous vessels like Wonder.

I'm not sure a family of four could coexist in Icon's balcony cabin — solely because of the bathroom size. There's no way two people could fit in there simultaneously. A fight over who gets priority access to the toilet could ruin a peaceful family vacation! (Which is to say, I'm glad I was traveling alone.)

With the bathroom door closed, I accidentally elbowed the walls more times than I could count.

The spare towels had to be stored on a shelf inside the shower. Because the counter was so small, I had to keep most of my toiletries and products on the shelves or in the drawer.

Surprisingly, that's where Icon excelled. Its bathroom had more storage options than its older counterpart, which didn't even have a drawer.

However, the older ship's shower had a clothesline perfect for drying swimwear. It's a small but crucial amenity, especially on a vessel with so many pools and waterslides.

Unfortunately, both were stocked with two-in-one body wash and shampoo — and no hair conditioner

Let’s go through our checklist.

My balcony cabin on Wonder looked less modern than its successor (the TV on Icon had Chromecast, after all).

But it was significantly more functional and comfortable. The bed was incomparably more pleasant, the closets had more defined storage components, and the bathroom was considerably larger, even if it lacked additional shelving and drawers.

The question is: Which one is more worth its price?

Icon's cheapest balcony cabins are currently $900 more than the most affordable ones on Wonder — an almost $130 per person and day difference.

Based on the quality of the staterooms alone, if you prioritize functionality, comfort, and affordability over modern decor, consider saving money and going with the two-year-old ship .

But let’s not forget that cruise fares include unlimited food, on board activities, and nighttime entertainment.

Both ships have a fairly similar list of amenities. But only the newer one has a waterpark , an adult-only infinity pool club, and a swim-up bar, to name a few unique amenities.

So yes, Icon's balcony cabins are more costly. But the staggering price difference — and tiny bathroom — could be worth it if you think the its surplus of additional amenities is worth paying for.

Read the original article on Business Insider

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Caribbean Cruise Weather by Month

Prepare to be awed as you sail into the best Caribbean cruise destinations with Princess, where relaxation and adventure are the only things on your to-do list. With any of our itineraries, experience the island lifestyle that keeps so many guests coming back for more. Here are the best Caribbean cruise destinations to consider for your next adventure.

With abundant sunshine and clear blue skies, Caribbean cruise weather is known for being consistent year-round. Here’s everything to know about typical weather forecasts on a Caribbean cruise.

Caribbean Cruise Weather in January and February

Even in the middle of winter, Caribbean cruise weather feels like a tropical oasis. As the start of the dry season, January yields the least amount of rain all year. While climates will vary depending on which region you’re sailing, expect temperatures to range from the upper 80s during the day to the mid-60s in the evening. If you’re cruising to ports like Aruba or Bonaire in the Southern Caribbean , you’ll likely experience the warmest conditions, as they’re the closest to the equator. Take advantage of the unique winter climates by jet skiing along one of Aruba’s pristine beaches or strolling through the lush botanical gardens in Martinique. 

Caribbean Cruise Weather in March and April

The Caribbean springs to life in March and April as festival season begins. With slightly warmer temperatures and little-to-no-clouds in sight, there are even more reasons to celebrate. Visit Grand Cayman in April and experience Cayfest, the island’s annual celebration of art, music and cultural diversity. During the dry season, let the radiant sun feed your imagination without worry of anyone — or anything — raining on your parade. With waters around 75 degrees Fahrenheit, take a dip in the Caribbean Sea while visiting Bamboo Beach Club. Even Eastern Caribbean islands — like Princess Cays ® in the Bahamas — anticipate ideal Caribbean cruise weather. 

Caribbean Cruise Weather in May and June

Summer weather forecasts on a Caribbean cruise bring a variety of flavors to each region. While the Southern Caribbean maintains its sunny disposition, other destinations welcome refreshing ocean breezes. Occasional light showers are the perfect excuse to head inside and tour the Graycliff Chocolatier, where you can create your own decadent masterpiece with local ingredients like mango and lime. Or sip on an aromatic flight of wines at Bahama Barrels while hearing stories from locals. Then, cruise into clearer conditions and partake in one of the many music festivals that dot the rural roads like the Pure Grenada Music Festival in May or the St. Kitts Music Festival in June. Whether swimming in the crystalline ocean or singing in the refreshing rain, come prepared with a light rain jacket, loose clothing and a heart full of wonder.

Caribbean Cruise Weather in July and August

For the quintessential summer vacation, cruise to the Caribbean in July and make the most of your days and nights. With More Ashore late night departures and overnight stays, revel in the warm evening climates that invite you to set sail on an Aruba sunset cruise or frolic along the Mambo Beach Boulevard in Curacao . During the daytime, bask in typical Caribbean cruise weather ranging from the mid-70s to upper 80s. Spend time floating in the warmest ocean temperatures of the year, or sunbathe on the golden beaches of the Western Caribbean during their driest month. If you’re cruising to the Eastern region, soak up the summer sun on any of the dazzling beaches, or head indoors for a taste of true Caribbean culture. In St. Kitts , delight in a relaxing swim at Pinney’s Beach followed by a festive island lunch. Or join a game of volleyball when you arrive at Honeymoon Beach in St. Thomas , and then cool off in the refreshing waters.

As July comes to a close, the calming sound of August rain brings an air of utter relaxation to the islands. During this month, locals head indoors to prepare for the busy season ahead. The weather in the Caribbean in August also means that many excursions are put on pause. As so, Princess does not sail to these regions during late summer and early fall. Instead, we invite guests to visit these breathtaking islands when the sand is dry and the waters are calm.

Caribbean Cruise Weather in October and November

While the rainy season lasts from the beginning of October through November, these are some of the best months to cruise to the Caribbean . Sip and savor your way through the Barbados Food and Rum Festival in October where local chefs prepare culinary treasures that give you a taste of island life. In the Grand Cayman, don your tricorn hat and line the streets to watch pirates invade George Town during Pirates Week Festival. Enjoy rhythmic music, family-friendly competitions and local cuisine alongside locals and visitors. Besides the occasional rainfall, Caribbean cruise weather in November will be similar to that in early summer with temperatures in the 70s and 80s. 

Caribbean Cruise Weather in December

The holidays offer even more reasons to celebrate in the Caribbean this December. Trade the snow-filled driveways and icy roads for warm white-sand shores and refreshing ocean waters on a holiday cruise . You can still enjoy a white Christmas on board with life-like snow in the Atrium. Or enjoy hot chocolate and gingerbread-house building throughout your time on board. Then, make your way ashore where balmy Caribbean cruise weather encourages you to float down the tree-lined rivers of Falmouth, Jamaica, on a bamboo raft. Or dive beneath the water to explore rainbow-colored reefs and marine life on a snorkeling expedition in Martinique. With adventures teeming both above and below the surface, pack your bags for a   winter to remember. 

From January to July, these tropical islands experience an array of weather forecasts. On a Caribbean cruise with Princess, embark on an ideal adventure amidst refreshing rain or sunny skies. View Caribbean cruises .

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Caribbean cruise line reroutes ships, cancels stop at island port due to violence, turmoil

  • Published: Apr. 25, 2024, 12:11 p.m.

Royal Caribbean Harmony of the Seas

Royal Caribbean International has canceled stops at its private beach in Haiti through September as a result of the violence plaguing the island nation, a private fan blog, citing messages to travelers, reports. AP

  • Robert Higgs, cleveland.com

MIAMI – Royal Caribbean has cancelled stops at its private port of Labadee through the summer because of simmering violence in Haiti.

In March, the cruise line canceled stops at the private beach area through May, but this week Royal Caribbean reworked cruise schedules through the summer and into September, a post on the Royal Caribbean Blog said.

“Guests booked on cruises in the summer and early fall are getting notifications from Royal Caribbean that their visits to Labadee have been canceled,” the blog said. “On Tuesday (April 23), cruisers began to share updates they received from Royal Caribbean that their itineraries have been updated to drop Labadee and replace it with another port or a sea day.”

Labadee is a beach area on a peninsula in northern Haiti near Cap-Haitien used exclusively by Royal Caribbean. The cruise line has its own security force at the site, which is walled off from the rest of the country.

The 260-acre site has been leased by Royal Caribbean since the 1980s. It is about a six-hour drive from Haiti’s capital, Port-au-Prince, and thus far has not seen any incidents of violence, the blog said.

More than 2,500 people were killed or injured in gang violence from January to March across Haiti, a more than 50% increase from the same period last year, according to a report Friday by the United Nations Integrated Office in Haiti. The vast majority of violence is in Port-au-Prince .

Cap-Haitien, Haiti’s former capital, has been spared much of the violence and is going through a bit of a resurgence, The Associated Press said . Business owners, anxious parents and even historic state ceremonies have been relocating there, and that began even before gangs started attacking key government infrastructure in Port-au-Prince in late February.

Royal Caribbean International had no formal announcements of the changes posted to its website. Royal Caribbean Blog is an unofficial site for fans of the cruise line and is not affiliated with Royal Caribbean International.

But it cited chatter and messages from cruise ticket holders about changes to their itinerary that showed stops at Labadee were being canceled and replaced with either an extra day of cruising at sea or stops in alternate ports.

A notice from the cruise line, reposted on the blog, informed guests about the change in travel plans, without explicitly mentioning the violence.

“Due to the continuing situation in Haiti, we’ll now visit Grand Turk, Turks & Caicos, instead of Labadee, Haiti,” the notice reads. “We’re sorry for the change – your safety is our top priority. Nevertheless, we’re excited to visit a new port with you!”

Grand Turk is the capital island in the Turks and Caicos archipelago north of Haiti.

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Travel | Celebrity Cruises joins the party at private…

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Subscriber only, travel | celebrity cruises joins the party at private bahamas island cococay.

Celebrity Cruises made its first visits this week to Royal Caribbean's private island Perfect Day at CocoCay, seen here in the January 2024 file photo. (Richard Tribou/Orlando Sentinel)

Celebrity Cruises made its first trip to sister cruise line Royal Caribbean’s private Bahamas island CocoCay this week.

The popular destination is rife with bells and whistles that cater to the adventuresome set that frequent Royal Caribbean ships, but the island is filled with tastes for all, including a new adults-only beachfront area called Hideaway Beach.

Celebrity Reflection was the first ship to visit on April 22 followed by Celebrity Beyond on April 23, both part of five-night western Caribbean sailings departing from Port Everglades, part of new shorter itineraries being offered by the premium cruise brand. Sailings also visit Bimini, Cozumel, Grand Cayman and Key West.

“Guest feedback inspired the new shorter Caribbean itineraries, designed to offer year-round opportunities to unwind with loved ones,” said Celebrity Cruises President Laura Hodges Bethge in a press release. “Introducing Perfect Day at CocoCay presents new experiences for Celebrity guests seeking quick beach getaway escapes close to home.”

caribbean cruises weather

Once known as just Little Stirrup Cay, Royal Caribbean now calls it Perfect Day at CocoCay, which received a $250 million overhaul first in 2019 adding a 13-slide water park including the 135-foot-tall Devil’s Peak that is one of seven slides on the castle-like tower that acts as an icon that can be seen from around the 125-acre resort.

It also added a dock that allows for two ships to come alongside instead of having to take day visitors with tender vessels. Nearby Great Stirrup Cay, which is used primarily by Norwegian Cruise Line, still relies on tenders, but recently announced it too would build a ship dock.

It also features a colorful helium balloon ride called Up, Up and Away that takes passengers up 450 feet on the rare calm days it’s not too windy, a 1,600-foot zip line and the largest wave pool in the Caribbean.

Those fall under the “Thrill” side of the island, but there’s plenty on the “Chill” side as well, including the Coco Beach Club, which includes a series of over-water cabanas with hammocks and personal slides plus more beachside cabanas, an infinity pool and a higher-end Mediterranean dining venue.

This image shows Hideaway Beach in January 2024, a new adults-only area on Royal Caribbean's Perfect Day at CocoCay. (Richard Tribou/Orlando Sentinel)

The newest feature on the island, though, opened in January. Hideaway Beach is the first part of the island to be kid-free. It has its own private beach and lagoon, two pools, seven food and drink locations and 20 cabanas.

Spending time at Hideaway Beach is designed to be an all-day experience at an extra charge for those 18 and older. Prices start at $39-$89 per person depending on sail date with the 20 cabanas available for an additional rate.

The On the Rocks bar, classic sports bar with pool and bar shuffleboard, is at one end of Hideaway Beach with views of the ship at dock, seen here in this January 2024 file photo. (Richard Tribou/Orlando Sentinel)

The space includes the al fresco On the Rocks bar with live musicians, live sports on TV and even a pool table and shuffleboard with great views of the dock along the island’s rocky shore.

The lagoon is surrounded by loungers, hammocks and in-water swingsets while the Hideaway Bar is the central swim-up bar in the main pool while there are two full-service Beach Bars on either side of the area as well.

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From the big shows aboard some of cruising’s biggest ships to the quiet hush of charming Vero Beach. From dancing on the sands with Lionel Richie and Nile Rodgers in the Bahamas to driving into mud puddles off road in Florida’s “outback.” The October issue of “Explore Florida & the Caribbean” offers something for every traveler, from adventurers to deckchair readers. We’ll stand in the shadow of giant elephants and giraffes at Disney’s Animal Kingdom, explore the $1 billion new old Pier Sixty-Six resort in Fort Lauderdale and swim with manatees in Crystal River.

The new issue of Explore Florida & the Caribbean takes you places

The immersive experience inside the Wizard of Oz Museum puts guests inside scenes from the fantasy novels in Cape Canaveral. (Patrick Connolly/Orlando Sentinel)

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Royal Caribbean lifts annual profit view as cruise demand soars

(Reuters) – Royal Caribbean Group on Thursday raised its annual profit forecast for a second time, benefiting from record demand for cruises and robust onboard spending.

Shares of the cruise operator rose about 5% in premarket trade, as the company also beat first-quarter revenue estimates.

The boom in demand for cruise vacations has sustained through an inflationary environment as people opted for vacations at sea over land-based alternatives that are often more expensive.

The industry is expecting 35.7 million passengers to set sail this year, a 20% increase from pre-pandemic levels, according to estimates by the Cruise Lines International Association.

Cruise operators also plan to hike ticket prices and encourage onboard spending.

Royal Caribbean now expects annual adjusted profit between $10.70 and $10.90 per share, compared with its earlier forecast of profit between $9.90 and $10.10 per share.

It reported first-quarter revenue of $3.73 billion, compared with market expectations of $3.69 billion, according to LSEG data.

(Reporting by Juveria Tabassum and Doyinsola Oladipo; Editing by Devika Syamnath)

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Mystery fire at major Moscow missile plant that makes Vladimir Putin's missiles used in Ukraine war

The blaze was the latest in a string of fires at key Russian defence plants, and is the only one in the country manufacturing ammunition for S-300 and S-400 air defence missiles

The blaze is the latest in a series of mysterious fires at key missile plants

  • 13:25, 17 Apr 2024

A mystery fire has destroyed part of a key Russian missile-making plant in Moscow, say reports.

The blaze is at Avangard factory which manufactures ammunition for the S-300 and S-400 anti-aircraft missile systems widely used in the war against Ukraine . The blaze covered some 540 square feet in workshop No. 12 of the Avangard plant, according to Moscow City news agency. The cause of the inferno and details of any casualties is currently unknown.

It appears to be the latest of a succession of fires reported at key Russian defence plants. The factory employs 2,500 workers, and it is the only one in the country manufacturing ammunition for the S-300 and S-400 air defence missiles.

This year fires have hit the machine-building plant Uralmash, in Yekaterinburg, and the MiG factory in Moscow, which is linked to the Kinzhal - or Dagger - fighter-carriers, involved in strikes against Ukraine. A report by TASS state news agency sought to portray the reported fire as a drill but other accounts indicated there had been a fire at the key Putin defence plant. There were claims that smoke at the scene was in fact not real.

“To bring the exercise conditions as close as possible to combat ones, pyrotechnic smoke devices were used in the premises,” a spokesman was quoted as saying. News of the fire comes at it emerged Russia's military death toll in Ukraine has now passed the 50,000 mark. According to the BBC , in the second year of the brutal Russia-Ukraine war, the death toll was 25% higher than in the first 12 months of the conflict.

More than 27,300 Russian soldiers died in the second year of combat, and the huge increase in deaths has been blamed on the ‘meat grinder’ strategy employed by military bosses in Moscow. The term was coined to describe the influx of soldiers being used to wear down Ukrainian forces.

It was also confirmed that President Vladimir Putin will not be invited to the 80th anniversary of the 1944 D-Day landings in June in light of the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.

MORE ON Vladimir Putin Russia Russia Ukraine war

Leading new stories from around the globe.

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  4. 9 Best Cruise Lines In The Caribbean

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  6. Average Caribbean Weather: Best and Worst Times to Go in 2020

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COMMENTS

  1. Cruise Weather Forecasts

    Cruise Outlook provides custom weather forecasts for many cruise sailings as well as other information about your trip. Planning and packing for your next cruise has never been so easy! Register; Login; Weather Reports. Cruise Info. Live Ship Cameras. Current Ship Positions. Future Ship Positions. Build a Report ...

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    This Caribbean video explains the best time to visit the region and avoid the annual hurricane season. Caribbean weather forecasts have average daytime temperatures ranging from the low 80s Fahrenheit in the winter to the high 80s Fahrenheit in the summer. Some destinations during the summer reach into the 90s Fahrenheit or low 30s Celsius.

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    Caribbean Weather in January. There's no better way to start the New Year than a cruise to the Caribbean! In January, the Caribbean experiences temperatures ranging from 80°F to 85°F (27°C to 29°C). You'll find the southern Caribbean is generally warmer than other areas.

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  5. Caribbean Cruise Weather by Month

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  7. Eastern Caribbean Cruise Weather: Best Times to Go

    Time of year is a much bigger factor in dealing with eastern Caribbean cruise weather. The annual hurricane season officially runs from June 1 until Nov. 30. On average, about 12 to 15 storms move through the Caribbean and Gulf of Mexico each year. But individual destinations may avoid most of them because they lie outside of the storms' paths.

  8. Caribbean Cruise Weather Forecasts

    Tip #2: The best Caribbean cruise weather months are early spring to mid-summer, but you will pay extra as a result. Tip #3: Take a Caribbean cruise in the fall to save money, but expect the odds of rainfall to increase, especially at ports of call. Scott S. Bateman is a professional journalist who has traveled widely throughout the Caribbean ...

  9. Guide to Caribbean Weather by Month

    Weather-wise, mid-December through mid-March is the best time for a Caribbean cruise. These are the driest months, with sunny skies, little rainfall, and pleasantly moderate temperatures. Expect average lows in the 70s and highs in the 80s.

  10. Caribbean Cruise Weather

    Caribbean cruise weather has fewer risks for vacationers planning a trip at sea rather than spending a week on an island for a simple reason — the ship can move away from bad weather while an island can't. Someone may one day invent detachable islands, but in the meantime vacationers should consider two major factors related to weather in ...

  11. The best time to cruise to the Caribbean

    Spring: Near-perfect weather with spring break crowds. If you don't mind spring break crowds, spring is a wonderful time to cruise. The weather in the Caribbean in March, April and May is idyllic, and the seas are likely to be calm. Plus, escaping the last of winter's wrath at home can be just what the doctor ordered to save your sanity.

  12. Weather

    Weather. Check directly with your cruise line for any possible weather related delays or itinerary changes. Many cruise lines will also allow you to sign-up online to receive weather alerts via email or text message pertaining to your specific cruise. Live interactive weather radar, satellite imagery, current port weather and forecasts, water ...

  13. Inclement Weather Continues to Rock The Caribbean Islands

    After a Carnival cruise ship hit the pier in Ocho Rios, Jamaica, on February 6, another ship cancelled a call to Princess Cays, and two Royal Caribbean ships were affected by bad weather at ...

  14. November in the Caribbean: Weather and Event Guide

    73 F (23 C) 5.9 inches. Barbados. 85 F (29 C) 76 F (24 C) 3.7 inches. Even though November is generally still considered a wet month, rain typically comes in short and intense downpours instead of long days of nonstop showers.

  15. Caribbean cruise line cancels trip to this island port due to ...

    Set weather. Back To Main ... News; Caribbean cruise line cancels trip to this island port due to surge in gang violence. Published: Apr. 27, 2024, 10:57 a.m. Royal Caribbean has cancelled all ...

  16. Popular cruise line cancels more stops to this popular Caribbean

    Royal Caribbean Cruise Line has canceled more stops to the line's private beach in Haiti, citing safety concerns. According to RoyalCaribbeanblog.com, the website that tracks the cruise line ...

  17. Travel alert: Royal Caribbean cancels cruises to this island

    After Royal Caribbean started to cancel trips to Haiti in March due to civil unrest in Haiti, the cruise line started to cancel more cruises into September, royalcaribbeanblog.com reported.

  18. Western Caribbean Cruise Weather: Best Times to Go

    Western Caribbean cruise weather is mild in the spring, hot in the summer and rainy in the fall. The western Caribbean is made up of a small number of islands such as Cozumel, Jamaica, Roatan off Honduras and the Cayman Islands. It also includes the Central American countries that face the Caribbean Sea, especially Panama, Belize and Costa Rica.

  19. U.S. travel alert: Cruise line cancels more visits to popular Caribbean

    Royal Caribbean Cruise Line has canceled more stops at one of its most popular destinations due to safety concerns. RoyalCaribbeanblog.com, a website that tracks the line, reported guests booked ...

  20. Carnival Cruise Line shares details on its 'naughty room'

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  21. Turks and Caicos ammo arrests: Virginia man charged

    The Transportation Safety Administration has admitted it failed to detect bullets in the luggage of American tourists who were later arrested on the Turks and Caicos Islands for possession of ammunition. On Tuesday, another U.S. citizen, who has family in New England, was arrested and detained for the same charge, after stopping on the islands during a cruise. Tyler Wenrich,…

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    Caribbean Cruise Weather in January and February. Even in the middle of winter, Caribbean cruise weather feels like a tropical oasis. As the start of the dry season, January yields the least amount of rain all year. While climates will vary depending on which region you're sailing, expect temperatures to range from the upper 80s during the ...

  25. Caribbean cruise line reroutes ships, cancels stop at island port due

    Royal Caribbean is canceling stops at Labadee, a private beach in northern Haiti that has been used by the cruise line since the 1980s, because of the violence that has plagued the island nation.

  26. Celebrity Cruises joins the party at private Bahamas island CocoCay

    Celebrity Cruises made its first trip to sister cruise line Royal Caribbean's private Bahamas island CocoCay this week. The popular destination is rife with bells and whistles that cater to the ...

  27. Royal Caribbean lifts annual profit view as cruise demand soars

    Cruise operators also plan to hike ticket prices and encourage onboard spending. Royal Caribbean now expects annual adjusted profit between $10.70 and $10.90 per share, compared with its earlier forecast of profit between $9.90 and $10.10 per share.

  28. Mystery fire at major Moscow missile plant that makes Vladimir Putin's

    The blaze was the latest in a string of fires at key Russian defence plants, and is the only one in the country manufacturing ammunition for S-300 and S-400 air defence missiles