Cruise in Jan or March--Pro's & Con's

[4greatboys]

Im trying to find a time to cruise when my boys are not in school. How are the rates & weather in Jan and March? We would like to go sometime we can get decent rates and weather too.

 

[VJMorrell]

Hi 4 boys,

January may be less expensive, I would think.

We just did the 2/15 Western using DVC points for a Cat 5. Weather was just GREAT. We booked on board ship for the same Cat (We are a family of 3 total) for 2/14/04. Price was $5670 for three (my son will be 13 next year) plus an onboard credit of $200.00.

Then we decided to reschedule for March. We are in the same stateroom and the cost is now $ 4380.00 (plus the credit for booking onboard). That is a big savings for the same cruise, just 4 weeks later.

We have done the 4 night, and also 7 night Eastern & Western. We loved the Western and are now booked for the 3/13/04 sailing. I have heard the weather is great in March.

Valerie

 

[sjm]

Depending on the week, the rates in Jan. would probably be better. You can check the rates by going to www.travelocity.com, www.orbitz.com or any similar site. I use them for reference only.

As far as the weather goes, we sailed on 1/25/03. The weather in Port Canaveral and at Castaway Cay was kinda cool. Of course, this was an unusual year for weather. There were snowflakes in Port Canaveral the night before we sailed. If you are doing an easter, St Thomas and St Maartin will be hot, no matter when you go. On the Western, Cozumel and Grand Cayman will also be hot, whenever you go.

Sue

 

[NCRedding]

We cruised last January (12-19). The weather at St Thomas and St Martin was excellent--Castaway Cay was a little cooler--just the water was uncomfortable at first. The weather getting on the ship was chilly-we were there during a cold snap, but i think most of this January was cooler for FL. The trip after ours had a good bit of flu reported--which is a common occurence in January--at least at schools and hospitals. We did get a great deal for the week, and had terrific sailing weather--no seasickness at all. The cost in January will vary greatly--closer to the first of the year is generally more expensive because of the holiday.

 

[tkd lisa]

We were on the 1/19 wonder this year. It was too cold for my liking. Obviously it was better than home, but I didn't swim at all. Temps were low 70s all three days (we were on the 4 day) when we were out, and in the low to mid 50s in Florida. The kids swam, but they didn't lounge around in the suits! Into the pools and out!

The prices were good, but I wouldn't do it again. Most of the fun was being in the water, and it was too cold to enjoy! I'd say March would be perfect, but you'll have to watch out for spring break price increases!

 

[mmouse37]

We just sailed on the 1/4 Magic Western and Port Canaveral and Key West were very cool (also told this was an unusually cool Jan this year). We could not make it to Grand Cayman due to rough seas, but Cozumel was awesome and very warm!!! CC was sunny but on the cool side due to a constant breeze.

I would try Jan again and hope that next time it was a bit warmer. Rates were great for that time of year.

We also sailed last Feb on the Magic Eastern. Temps were in high 80's at all port of call except Port Canaveral where it poured all day and we had to have sailaway party indoors.

MJ