Weather in early January

[cfreas]

I have booked a western cruise the 7th of January for our 10th Annv - can you tell me what to expect for weather? I'm concerened that it will be cool - if so should I consider the southern carribean instead?

[alison1170]

We usually go over New Years. Weve found that leaving/returning the home port can be on the cool side, especially at night, and the first/last sea day can be on the cool side. But in ports, its the usual hot and humid fare, even in Key West. Of course it also depends on what the weather is doing at that time as well. Last time (eastern) there was a strong front/storm that came through and it seemed a lot cooler than leaving the FL coast in the past. The crossing was really rough, and Nassau was cold and dreary. Once we got out of there, things improved greatly and it was nice when we got back. It was even warm at Disney World.

You should be fine with the western trip (weve done two over New Years), but just bring along a sweater/jacket, pants just in case its on the cool side when you leave/return.

alison

[LisaK]

We have done the Western in January. Ft. Lauderdale can be cool at night, we wore pants to dinner and had a light sweater , zip front sweatshirt or jacket to throw over our shoulders. The first sea day can be a bit cool and breezy, but still shorts & bathing suits. Once you hit the islands it was hot and humid in town, beaches and water with a nice breeze nice and warm. Cozumel was the hottest.

I noticed Alison that you will be sailing in Dec on RCCL to Panama. My husband and I are booked for Dec 12. After 3 Carnival Cruises we are trying RCCL.

January is a great time to cruise the Caribbean. You may get some isolated rain.

I live in Miami and the best time to cruise the Caribbean is from December to May. This is our dry season and the weather is absolutely fabulous.

If you looked at the weather channel today, you would not want to be on a Western itinerary. This time of year June/July the Western Caribbean gets alot of bad weather then the Eastern Caribbean gets it in August/September. October can be iffy.

I've lived in Miami for 15 years and I've always seen the same weather patterns. Keep in mind, I have to track hurricanes, so I pay special attention.

Personally, I have always cruised the Caribbean in December/January and May and have always had wonderful weather.

[cfreas]

Thanks to all for your help ~ We will stay on the Triumph for January - which is what we've wanted to do all along, just didn't want cold weather!!!!!