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WINTER CRUISES

Where will the sea take you?

Winter cruises | MSC Cruises

Light up your winter holidays with MSC Cruises. From a blissfully sunny holiday to the lasting emotions of art cities and natural wonders, set off on an exciting winter break and savor a season of adventure, thrills, and discovery! For your winter cruises in 2025 and 2026 choose from over 150 destinations across 70 countries onboard 23 stunning ships.

MSC Cruises routes can suite all your time needs. Your winter holiday will only last a handful of days? Or maybe you are planning something more than a short winter escape? Choose the perfect solution for you, from 2, 3 or 4-night mini-cruises, to classical 7-night itineraries up to 10 or 15-night routes.

 

Would you like to enjoy MSC cruises’ comfort even longer? Choose from lengthy 17, 19, 28-night winter cruises or even extended adventures including the phenomenal 121-night 2026 World Cruise. Dreaming of the ultimate Christmas or New Year's cruise? Stop fantasizing, your winter holiday is just a click away!

Each voyage is designed to captivate and inspire, presenting unique experiences you won't find anywhere else. Indulge in the warm sunshine of Caribbean shores, sail to the vibrant beats of samba in South America or explore the cutting-edge cities of the Emirates. Do you feel like indulging in a great classic? With winter breeze, discover the Mediterranean, Canary Islands and Madeira or Northern Europe in an atmosphere you won't forget!

Sail in comfort on MSC Cruises’ fleet of ships, including the newest MSC World Asia (sailing to the Mediterranean), MSC Euribia (sailing to Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Qatar), MSC World Europa (sailing to the Mediterranean), MSC Seascape and MSC World America (both sailing to the Caribbean). In addition, there are advantageous packages, including our Fly & Cruise or Stay & Cruise options, as well as a rich offer of prepaid packages, to make cruising even more convenient.

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BEST WINTER CRUISE DEALS

Embark on a spellbinding voyage with our selection of irresistible winter cruise deals and create memories to cherish for a lifetime.

Cruises for Seniors | MSC Cruises
UP TO 10% OFF
Cruises for Seniors
Book online and save up to 10% on your cruise

Young adults cruise deals | MSC Cruises
SAVE UP TO 10%
Cruises for young adults
Start planning your holidays and save up to 10% off

BEST WINTER CRUISE DESTINATIONS

Looking for ideas for your winter sun cruise? Go tropical with a cruise around the Caribbean or chase the sun on a getaway to Canary Islands and Madeira. Be bowled over by the skyline and coastlines of Dubai and Abu Dhabi and feel immersed in South American vibrancy with a winter cruise in Brazil, Argentina, and Uruguay. Soak in the rich heritage of the Mediterranean, sightseeing around Italy, Spain, Morocco and Greece.

And if you want to soak up all the magic of winter and its festive Christmas atmosphere pick a cruise to Europe's 'Northern Pearls' enjoying fantastic cities without the high-season crowds. Choose the best winter cruise deals and expect the best for your winter holidays in 2025 and 2026.
Caribbean & Antilles | MSC Cruises
Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve | MS Cruises

Caribbean winter cruises

Maybe you’d like a winter glow up? For your winter holiday indulge in the warm sunshine, vibrant culture, and unhurried pace of a Caribbean cruise. Experience the exclusivity of MSC's private island, Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve, with its swaying palm trees and crystal-clear waters. Venture further to Mexico, Puerto Rico, and the Antilles for more adventures. Or embark on a Grand Voyage across the Atlantic, to experience a journey between the old and new worlds, with plenty of time to relax in the warm Bahamian waters.
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Dubai | MSC Cruises
Dubai, Emirates | MSC Cruises

Winter cruises in Dubai and Abu Dhabi

Do you want hi-vis glam? Step into the future amidst the skylines, souks and sandbanks of Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Bahrain and Qatar. Relish the Middle Eastern flavours and be seduced by the region’s beauty, tradition, and innovation as you explore pristine beaches, historic sites, and spectacular modern cityscapes. With MSC Cruises you can also enjoy the thrills of Formula One racing. A two-day call in Doha, Qatar, on Sunday 30/11/25 and Monday 01/12/25, during the F1 Qatar Grand Prix 2025, will offer a unique experience from track to ship.

 

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Canary Islands & Madeira | MSC Cruises
Santa Cruz de Tenerife | MSC Cruises

Winter cruises to the Canary Islands and Madeira

Craving a winter escape with sun-kissed beaches, a gentle climate, and breathtaking landscapes kissed by the ocean breeze? All this awaits you on a cruise to the Canary Islands and Madeira. Journey through the striking volcanic horizons of Lanzarote, the golden sand dunes of Fuerteventura, and the magnificent national parks of Gran Canaria. In Madeira, witness the natural beauty and breathtaking landscapes of this island and taste the fantastic local cuisine. Regular international flights to Tenerife, Gran Canaria, Madeira, and Lanzarote make these destinations widely accessible, as the Canary Islands and Madeira are popular winter warm-weather destinations.
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Morocco, Mediterranean cruises | MSC Cruises
Amsterdam excursions | MSC Cruises

Northern Europe

Embrace the season with a tour of Europe's 'Northern Pearls' without the crowds, taking in the cultural splendour of capitals such as London, Paris and Amsterdam. Be inspired by the elegance of Hamburg and the cosy charm of Bruges. Choose our winter cruises in Northern Europe and return home full of indelible memories!

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botafogo beach, Sugarloaf Mountain, Botafogo, Copacabana Beach

South America

Get ready to dance to the beat of tango and samba! Explore Brazil's infamous beaches, Argentina’s pulsating cities and the stunning coastal splendors of Uruguay. With six ships sailing the seas of South America, this winter MSC Cruises will take you on an everlasting adventure. Choose between 3 to 8-night cruises up to 24-night Grand Voyages and enjoy the lively South American vibes with MSC Cruises itineraries.

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Camps Bay, Cruise ship, MSC Cruises

South Africa

Get ready to dance to the beat of tango and samba! Explore Brazil's infamous beaches, Argentina’s pulsating cities and the stunning coastal splendors of Uruguay.  In Rio de Janerio take a dip at Copacabana Beach or admire the breathtaking view from Christ the Redeemer, while in Buenos Aires, stroll through the colourful houses of the famous La Boca neighbourhood.

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Naha, Japan

Asia

Get ready to dance to the beat of tango and samba! Explore Brazil's infamous beaches, Argentina’s pulsating cities and the stunning coastal splendors of Uruguay.  In Rio de Janerio take a dip at Copacabana Beach or admire the breathtaking view from Christ the Redeemer, while in Buenos Aires, stroll through the colourful houses of the famous La Boca neighbourhood.

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CHOOSE YOUR NEXT WINTER CRUISE IN 2025 - 2026

Have you ever been struck by winter blues? With MSC's winter cruises, the only blue you will experience is that of a sea of emotions.
Choose the perfect month for your winter vacation. Whether it's December, January or February MSC Cruises has the right cruise for you.
Winter has never been so exciting as with MSC Cruises!

December cruises | MSC Cruises
December cruises 2025
Northern Europe, Caribbean, Mediterranean, Emirates and much more
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January cruises | MSC Cruises
January cruises 2026
Northern Europe, Caribbean, Mediterranean, Emirates and much more
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Northern Europe cruises in Winter | MSC Cruises
February cruises 2026
Northern Europe, Caribbean, Mediterranean, Emirates and much more
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BOOK NOW YOUR WINTER CRUISE

Winter cruises FAQs

What are the best winter cruise destinations?

MSC cruises reach outstanding destinations during the winter months, making it impossible to choose which is the best. All you need is to be inspired by our routes and simply choose the one that most excites your desire for discovery, adventure, or relaxation.  

Whether you're a sunseeker looking for relaxation, a family wanting to reconnect during the holidays, or a culture hound searching for your next must-see sight, you're guaranteed to create lasting memories. Based on your needs, you can choose the destinations that best suit you: from the Mediterranean countries to the Northern Europe capitals, from the tropical paradise of the Caribbean or the volcanic splendour of the Canary Islands, to the best destinations in South America, South Africa, Japan, and the Emirates. So, plan your perfect getaway now and explore the world this winter.

How long is a winter cruise?

There are many winter cruise options with different lengths, so you can pick the one that fits your plans best. You can go on short cruises, week-long routes, or even longer ocean crossings. If you only have a few days for your winter break and want a quick escape, you can choose from our mini-cruises that last 2, 3, or 4 nights. If you-re searching for a longer journey, MSC Cruises offer that last 10, 15, 17, or 19 nights, and even big journeys that go up to 28 nights.

How much is a winter cruise?

The price of a winter cruise can vary depending on several factors like the itinerary length, the kind of accommodation you choose and the destination. But MSC Cruises has many choices to suit your budget. With the available winter cruise deals, finding the perfect vacation within your budget is simple! 

Why cruise in winter?

The reasons why winter is a great season to sail for a cruise holiday are more than one. Firstly, a cruise gives you the chance to comfortably reach warm destinations in the middle of winter so you can recharge your batteries for the start of the new year to the mild and warm climate of fantastic destinations such as the Caribbean, the Canary Islands and the Emirates. 

If you prefer to visit the Mediterranean art cities, during the winter months you can wander the streets of these cities, visit their museums and main attractions with complete peace of mind, avoiding the crowds of the summer months. 

In winter, some destinations really reach their peak with their magical Christmas vibes that warm even the coldest climate. Especially December and January are perfect months to visit some of the major cities in northern Europe and breathe in the festive atmosphere in the famous Christmas markets. 

Finally, a winter cruise is really a great holiday to recharge your batteries for the New Year, perhaps spending Christmas or New Year's Eve on board enjoying the maximum comfort and the many activities of MSC Cruises. 

What to pack for a winter cruise?

What to pack in your suitcase during the winter months depends on your destinations. For warmer destinations, such as the Caribbean, the Canary Islands, Madeira, and the Emirates, where the winter climate is milder and sunnier, we suggest packing light clothing, such as t-shirts, shirts, shorts, and a few sweatshirts or jackets for cooler days. 

While for a winter cruise sailing to Northern European countries, we suggest packing warm clothing such as a winter jacket, preferably padded and waterproof in case of rain, along with wool sweaters, warm wool shirts, and warm or waterproof pants. Scarves, hats, and gloves are also essential to protect against wind. The same clothes, though lighter, can also be bought for your winter cruises in the Mediterranean. 

What is the weather like in the Caribbean during winter?

The Caribbean is one of the most popular destinations for a winter cruise. The weather in December, January and February is characterized by mild temperatures ranging between 25 and 30°C. Since winter is part of the dry season, the sky is consistently clear with extremely low chances of rain. A winter vacation in the Caribbean is therefore perfect for escaping the cold and spending unforgettable moments of warmth and sunshine, enjoying the crystal-clear sea and stunning shores. 

What to wear on a winter Caribbean cruise?

Given the mild and warm Caribbean climate, your winter cruise suitcase should primarily consist of light and casual clothing such as t-shirts, shirts, and shorts. Of course, don't forget to bring swimsuits along with sunscreen and sunglasses to enjoy the fantastic Caribbean sun. For slightly cooler evenings, we recommend packing a few heavier items, like sweatshirts and long pants. 

What is the weather like in the Canary Islands and Madeira during winter?

The Canary Islands experience a dry winter with mild temperatures, sunny days, and little rainfall therefore the weather is perfect for exploring the stunning landscapes of these Atlantic islands. However, in the evening, the temperatures might drop slightly. 

The winter climate in Madeira is also mild but more humid compared to the Canaries, making the temperature a bit cooler, though still pleasant and warm throughout the winter. Here too, the chances of rain are low, although they might increase in the mountainous areas. 

What to wear on a winter cruise to the Canary Islands and Madeira?

Think of shorts, dresses, and t-shirts for the warm days. For cooler days, include a light jacket or sweater in your luggage. 

What is the weather like in Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Qatar?

The winter climate of Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Qatar is truly ideal for those seeking a warm winter vacation. The temperatures are extremely pleasant from December to February, ranging around 20-25°C during the day, while the nights can be slightly cooler. The sky is almost always clear and sunny, providing the opportunity to enjoy beautiful bright days. 

What to wear on a winter cruise to Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Qatar?

The mild temperatures of the Emirates and Qatar will allow you to pack light and breathable clothing such as short-sleeve shirts, blouses, and shorts. Light sweaters or sweatshirts could be useful for cooler days. We also recommend bringing some covering clothing such as long pants or long-sleeve shirts, which can be useful when visiting mosques and other religious sites. 

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