Where Should Canadians Cruise in December: The Smart Picks
December for Canadian cruisers is really two separate seasons wearing one calendar month — and both reward planning far earlier than the trip itself might suggest.
Early-to-mid December: Christmas markets
European river cruises shift entirely to Christmas-market itineraries through this window — shorter sailings threading between German, Austrian and French market towns, mulled wine at every stop, festive decoration throughout the ship and towns alike. This is a genuinely distinct product from summer river cruising, popular enough that prime departures sell out well before the season itself arrives. (see River Cruise vs Ocean Cruise for Couples Over 50).
Late December: the holiday escape
For Canadians specifically wanting to be somewhere warm over Christmas and New Year, Caribbean and Mexican Riviera sailings cover this window —Expect premium pricing (this is peak demand) but festive onboard programming and a fully catered alternative to hosting the holidays at home (see Best Cruise Lines for Couples Over 50).
Why December demands earlier booking than usual
Both December opportunities compete for finite inventory against exceptionally high demand — Christmas-market river cruises have naturally limited capacity (smaller ships, shorter season), while Caribbean holiday sailings see the year's peak demand spike. Booking 10-12 months ahead isn't excessive caution for December specifically; it's often the only way to secure the sailing, cabin category or specific dates wanted.
Alaska and most other regions: closed
December sits fully outside Alaska's season and most other major cruise regions' active windows — European river cruising (Christmas markets specifically) and warm-weather Caribbean/Mexican routes are essentially the only realistic December options.
Deciding which December suits your year
Christmas markets suit couples wanting a shorter, culturally rich European experience with genuine holiday atmosphere; Caribbean escapes suit those wanting full holiday-period warmth and a complete break from Canadian winter. Some travellers alternate between the two across different years.
Want this priced up properly? Speak to a licensed cruise consultant — same price as booking direct, plus perks like onboard credit and prepaid gratuities the websites don't show. No fee, no obligation. You can get a quote or book online.
Get a quote or book online →Securing December's high-demand sailings
Given how early both December cruise options sell out, particularly for the exact dates around Christmas and New Year, getting the booking process started well ahead of the season is the difference between getting your first choice and settling for what's left.
Want this priced up properly? Speak to a licensed cruise consultant — same price as booking direct, plus perks like onboard credit and prepaid gratuities the websites don't show. No fee, no obligation. You can get a quote or book online.
Get a quote or book online →Frequently asked questions
How far ahead should you book a December cruise?
Considerably earlier than most other months — both Christmas-market river cruises and Christmas/New Year Caribbean sailings are among the year's highest-demand periods, warranting booking 10-12 months ahead for the best selection.
Are Christmas market river cruises worth it?
Very popular and often highly rated by past guests — floating between German, French or Austrian Christmas markets combines river cruising's intimate charm with a genuinely festive, uniquely European holiday atmosphere difficult to replicate any other way.
More questions you might have
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