If you're looking for a beach vacation, July and August are your best bet. For a combination of sun and cooler temperatures, try a Mediterranean cruise in June, September, or October. The best time to book a cruise is usually from January to March. This period, known as wave season, is when sales take place across the industry and you can find great deals on the cruise of your dreams.
It's also a great time to look for booking promotions such as free upgrades, prepaid tips, or money for onboard expenses. Conversely, September is the worst month of the year to travel by cruise ship. April and May are great times to travel since they are out of hurricane season, although some Caribbean destinations may receive more rainfall than normal in May. June, July, and August are the most popular months for Caribbean cruises and summer cruises have their own advantages and disadvantages. If you're not one for cruising with families on board, keep in mind that summer months usually see an influx of children on the cruise ship.