December Cruises |

Why Choose December Cruises

December is a brilliant time to cruise to the United States Virgin Islands. The weather is warm and generally dry, with plenty of sunshine for exploring colourful harbours, swimming from sandy beaches and enjoying relaxed island evenings. It is also a welcome escape from the colder, darker days at home.

A cruise makes it easy to experience more than one island without the hassle of changing hotels. Your ship can bring you into Charlotte Amalie on St Thomas, while other itineraries may include nearby St John or St Croix. Each stop has its own character, from lively shopping streets and historic buildings to quiet coves and beautifully protected countryside.

Caribbean Holidays, December Cruises, Visitors walking through the historic streets of Charlotte Amalie, St Thomas, with colourful buildings, waterfront views and small shops

Exploring St Thomas

Charlotte Amalie is one of the Caribbean’s most attractive cruise ports. Start with a stroll through the old town, where Danish colonial architecture, narrow lanes and historic stairways tell the story of the island’s past. The waterfront is ideal for a relaxed wander, and there are plenty of cafés and restaurants for a cool drink or an easy lunch.

Shopping is another popular reason to visit St Thomas, with jewellery, watches, local crafts and holiday essentials available close to the port. For a wider view, take a taxi or organised excursion up to a scenic lookout. From the hills, you can see the harbour dotted with boats and the neighbouring islands stretching across the sea.

Caribbean Holidays, December Cruises, A quiet Caribbean beach on St John with white sand, clear turquoise water, palm trees and a snorkeller near the shore

Beaches And Snorkelling

St John is a favourite port of call for travellers who want natural beauty and a slower pace. Much of the island is protected as national parkland, leaving the coastline remarkably unspoilt. A short trip to a beach such as Maho Bay or Trunk Bay can give you soft sand, calm water and excellent opportunities to spot colourful fish close to shore.

December’s clear conditions are well suited to swimming, kayaking and boat trips. If you prefer to stay dry, scenic drives reveal forested hills, small bays and viewpoints that make the island feel worlds away from busy city life. Remember to bring reef-friendly sun cream, a hat and water, as the midday sun can be strong.

Caribbean Holidays, December Cruises, A lively waterfront restaurant in the United States Virgin Islands at sunset, with outdoor tables, local food and a cruise ship in the distance

Making The Most Of Your Visit

Plan your shore days around what you enjoy most, rather than trying to see everything at once. Book popular excursions early, particularly during the busy Christmas and New Year period, and check how long transfers take from the cruise terminal. Leaving some free time is worthwhile, as island traffic and ferry schedules can be slower than expected.

Whether you spend the day on a beach, browsing Charlotte Amalie’s shops or tasting fresh seafood beside the water, December cruises to the United States Virgin Islands offer an appealing mix of sunshine, scenery and easy exploration. With the comfort of your ship waiting at the end of each day, it is a relaxed way to discover this memorable corner of the Caribbean.