The 6 Best Spring Cruise Destinations
Spring is the best season for travel in terms of weather. It's dry and not yet hot in many places around the world, and if you know when to book your cruise, you can score some amazing deals. A rule of thumb for springtime travel is to go when Spring breakers are leaving and before Summer vacationers roll in. It's also the best time of year when you can see the most beautiful flowers in full bloom. Keep reading to see which six destinations are great to visit in the Spring.
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Japan
Springtime is a beautiful season to visit Japan in because of its blooming cherry blossoms. Though it is a peak time for tourists, you won't want to miss this natural spectacle. Some cruise lines even offer tours to the best flower festivals, like Princess Cruises' Spring Floral Festivals, which includes stops in Akita, Aomori, and Toyama.
Australia
The months of March through May are actually Fall in Australia, which is the best time to visit the Great Barrier Reef. Swimming season begins in April with comfortable temperatures and less rain. Cruises that stop at Cairns, Port Douglas, and Airlie Beach allow for visits to the reef. You can also board a Great Barrier Reef-specific cruise to explore that area only.
The Mediterranean
To beat crowds and hot temperatures, cruise the Mediterranean in the shoulder season of March and April. Travelers are promised beautiful weather, lots of sunlight, and fewer children. You can usually find low rates during this time before the weather really starts to warm up beginning in May. Mediterranean cruises can include stops in Spain, Italy, Greece, France, and more.
Holland
There's no better time than in the Spring to visit the Dutch cities. Board a Holland river cruise to witness fully bloomed tulip fields, windmills, and historic cities. Viking Ring Cruises' Tulips and Windmills excursion starts and ends in Amsterdam with a couple stops in Belgium in-between and truly looks like the best way to experience the Netherlands this time of year.
The Caribbean
Right after the Spring break crowds die down around mid- to late-April is one of the best times to head to the Caribbean. Luckily, you won't have to sacrifice good weather as it's 70 to 80 degrees almost year round. You can also snag some great deals on Caribbean cruises during this time through May.
Alaska
May through early June in Alaska is a little colder but way cheaper for cruises. You'll have a better chance of seeing migrating animals and wildflowers in bloom around this time. Regardless of when you go, Alaskan cruises are never short of adventure and breathtaking scenery.