We cruised in December, and have been to the Bahamas in January. I don't like cold water, I am a Florida girl. My husband and boys both snorkeled at CC in December. They also swam. There were people in the water, but I have to say the majority were out of the water. We noticed that it seemed to be mostly kids, with a few dads swimming. Moms were, for the most part, sun bathing! On our trip to the Bahamas in January, the water was too cold for me. I think our boys only went in the ocean once, but did enjoy the pool. I know other people have been to CC in the winter and had no problem with the water temps. I think it is just personal preferece. Hope that helps!