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Holiday Cruises | Holiday Cruise Deals

Make New Family Memories on the High Seas!

What Is a Holiday Cruise?

A Holiday Cruise is a sailing that takes place during a major holiday and includes themed décor, special entertainment, seasonal menus, and festive programming onboard.

Unlike traditional cruises, holiday sailings are designed to celebrate the occasion while still delivering the full cruise experience, dining, entertainment, shore excursions, and relaxation.

Holiday cruises typically feature:

Seasonal decorations throughout the ship
Themed parties and special entertainment
Holiday-inspired dining menus
Family-friendly activities and events
Extended port stays on select sailings
Fireworks or countdown celebrations for New Year’s Eve

Because these cruises sail during peak travel periods, they are among the most popular departures of the year.

Best Destinations for Holiday Cruises

Most holiday cruises sail to warm-weather destinations, though some seasonal itineraries visit cooler climates for a traditional winter experience.

Popular regions include:

Caribbean Cruises: Bahamas, Eastern Caribbean, Western Caribbean
Mexico Cruises: Cozumel, Costa Maya, Cabo San Lucas
Hawaii Cruises: Multi-island holiday sailings
Central America Cruises: Belize, Costa Rica, Panama Canal

Holiday cruises depart frequently from:

Florida ports (Miami, Fort Lauderdale, Port Canaveral, Tampa)
California ports (Los Angeles, San Diego)
Texas ports (Galveston)

When Should You Book a Holiday Cruise?

Holiday cruises sell out earlier than most sailings due to school breaks and peak travel demand.

Booking timeline recommendations:

Thanksgiving cruises: 6–9 months in advance
Christmas cruises: 9–12 months in advance
New Year’s Eve cruises: 9–12 months in advance

Frequently Asked Questions About Holiday Cruises

Do cruise ships decorate for the holidays?

Yes. Most major cruise lines decorate ships with trees, lights, garlands, and themed décor throughout public spaces.

Is holiday food served onboard?

Yes. Cruise lines typically serve traditional holiday meals in main dining rooms and specialty venues.

Are holiday cruises family-friendly?

Yes. Most sailings include youth programs, kids clubs, and activities designed for all ages.

Do Holiday Cruises sell out?

Yes. Christmas and New Year’s Eve cruises frequently sell out months in advance.

Can I find last-minute Holiday Cruise deals?

Occasionally, but availability is limited. Booking early is generally the best strategy.

Thanksgiving Cruises

Cruise Deals To Be Thankful For!

Search for Thanksgiving Cruises by cruise line and price.

From$244
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Christmas Cruises

Deck the Seas with Savings!

Search for Christmas Cruises by cruise line and price.

From$234
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New Year‘s Eve Cruises

Celebrate at Sea!

Search for New Year's Eve Cruises by cruise line and price.

From$299
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Other Holiday Cruises:

Featured fares are per person based on double occupancy. Fares are in U.S. dollars. All savings amounts are included in the fares shown. Taxes, Fees & Port Expenses are additional. Subject to availability. Exclusive offers are per stateroom based on double occupancy, for 1st and 2nd guests sharing a stateroom and excludes 3rd/4th guests, except as provided herein. Available for new bookings only. Offers are not combinable with any other discounts unless explicitly stated, and are not transferable or refundable. Offers are applicable on select 2022 departures. Deposits may be non-refundable. Shipboard credit is per cabin and has no promotional value. Must be used prior to the final night onboard the ship or the credit will be gone. No monetary value. Offers are capacity controlled, and may be modified or withdrawn without prior notice. Other restrictions may apply. Copyright (c) 2021 arrivia.