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Best places to cruise in January

The holiday break may be over but that doesn’t mean that you can’t treat yourself to a relaxing cruise.

Since the hectic Christmas season has come to an end, it’s time to treat yourself to some time at sea and to exploring new destinations.

We share the best destinations to cruise to so you can start 2023 right.


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1. Singapore

Singapore has a little bit of something for everyone.

It’s here that you’ll be able to find the old and the new clashing to create a diverse and beautiful country. Nature and wildlife can be found throughout, making it a true garden city, yet it’s a hub for shopping lovers.

Exotic food can be found just about anywhere and it will all be delicious.

  • Departures from: Sydney, Melbourne, Adelaide, Perth, Brisbane, Cairns and Auckland.
  • Why January? January is a prime time for visitors to cruise Southeast Asia, including Singapore, as the high humidity breaks and the temperatures cool.
  • Which cruise lines sail to and from Singapore? Princess Cruises, Royal Caribbean, Seabourn and Silversea.

Book your cruise to Singapore


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2. South America

Discover exotic lands, sights and unbeatable nature on this stunning continent.

In South America, your eyes will be filled with wonder as colour from the buildings and the traditional local clothing fill the streets around you. The diversity, history and wildlife found on this continent, from ice in Patagonia and deserts in Chile to unique creatures in the Galapagos, make this one place that will be sure to deliver.

  • Departures from: Cruises around South America primarily depart from South America.
  • Why January? Cruising around South America is essential in the summer, making January one of the best months as the water is at an appropriate level for cruises along the Amazon river and the Panama Canal. It also guarantees there is enough daylight in Patagonia.
  • Which cruise lines sail to and from South America? Celebrity Cruises, Silversea, MSC Cruises, Holland American Line, Viking Ocean Cruises, Azamara and Norwegian Cruise Line.

Book your cruise to South America


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3. Caribbean

White sand beaches and relaxing days are calling your name.

The Caribbean is the perfect place to kick back and relax. The waves and tropical music can make you forget about any worries.

The incredible diving and snorkelling as well as the amazing people and scrumptious food make this group of islands a top place to visit.

  • Departures from: Cruises to the Caribbean generally don't depart from Australia unless they're part of a longer world cruise. Cruises mainly depart from within the Caribbean or from Fort Lauderdale, Port Canaveral, Miami and Tampa in the US.
  • Why January? January around the islands is one of the driest months of the year and temperatures are much more bearable compared to the scorching summers.
  • Which cruise lines sail to and from the Caribbean? Norwegian Cruise Line, Celebrity Cruises, Royal Caribbean, Princess Cruises, Carnival, Sea Cloud, MSC, Azamara, Oceania Cruises, Seabourn, Silversea, Holland America Line, Regent and Ponant.

Book your cruise to the Caribbean


4. Mexico's West Coast

Margaritas and Mexican sunsets should be enough to have you booking a cruise for next month.

But if that doesn’t convince you, let us remind you about the ancient ruins, turquoise waters and jaw-dropping coastal views. Whether you need some time to party, relax or enjoy a bit of history, the Mexican coast is the place for you to cruise.

  • Departures from: San Francisco, San Diego, Caldera and Los Angeles.
  • Why January? January offers cooler temperatures and the driest weather, plus it’s an optimal time to spot marine life that includes whales, dolphins, sea lions and more in the Sea of Cortez.
  • Which cruise lines sail to and from Mexico? Princess Cruises, Celebrity Cruises, Royal Caribbean, Carnival, Ponant, Holland America Line, MSC, Disney Cruise Line, Norwegian Cruise Line, Oceania Cruises and Regent Seven Seas.

Book your cruise to Mexico


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Taylor Lorenz is a writer for Finder, focusing on travel content. She has previously written guides for World Nomads, Matador Network and the Huffington Post, and she also writes for her own travel blog, Taylor’s Tracks. Taylor makes her way around the globe writing and beach hopping and can usually be found with a book and a cup of tea in hand. See full bio

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