Where to Cruise This Spring: Top Destinations for Sunshine and Scenery

• Mediterranean magic in spring: Warmer weather, vibrant culture and fewer crowds make Europe’s Mediterranean cruises hard to beat.

• Sun-soaked escapes: From the Canary Islands to the Caribbean, spring cruising delivers ideal sunshine and scenic itineraries.

• Perfect climate, perfect timing: Spring cruising offers comfortable temperatures and great value before the peak summer rush.

Spring is the perfect time to dust off your suitcase, reset your travel clock, and set sail to destinations brimming with sunshine, culture and breathtaking views. With longer days and pleasant temperatures, spring cruises offer the best of both worlds: spectacular scenery and comfortable climates, without the summer crowds. 

Here are some of the top cruise destinations for spring, all ideal for unforgettable itineraries from April through early June.

1. The Western Mediterranean - Spain, France & Italy

The Western Mediterranean comes alive in spring with sun-drenched cities, Mediterranean breezes and iconic coastlines. Think Barcelona’s buzz, Provence’s flowers, and the glamour of the Italian Riviera.

Why Cruise Here:

• Mild, sunny weather is ideal for exploring cities, beaches and historic sites.

• Excellent choice for a short break or longer Mediterranean getaway.

• Ports of call with varied culture, cuisine and coastlines.

Top Attractions:

• Barcelona - Gaudí architecture & vibrant waterfront.

• Marseille - Old port charm and Provençal markets.

• Genoa - Historic lanes and seaside views.

Average Spring Weather:

• Daytime temperatures are typically 17-23 °C, cooling pleasantly at night.

• Plenty of sunshine with a gentle sea breeze- ideal for deck days and shore tours.

Popular Cruise Lines on Western Mediterranean Routes:

• Royal Caribbean - city-to-coastal combinations with entertainment-rich ships.

• MSC Cruises - Mediterranean specialists with frequent sailings.

• Celebrity Cruises - refined itineraries with cultural enrichment.

• Costa Cruises - authentic Italian style and Mediterranean routes.

• Princess Cruises - longer Mediterranean circuits with port-intensive calls.

Best For: First-timers to the Med, couples and culture lovers.

2. The Greek Islands - Santorini, Mykonos & Crete

Iconic whitewashed villages, sapphire seas and Greek hospitality make the Greek Islands a perennial spring favourite. Days of sunshine and breezy evenings set the scene for perfect cruising.

Why Cruise Here:

• Spring is shoulder season: more space, lower prices and mild weather.

• Dramatic landscapes, ancient history and culinary delights.

Top Attractions:

• Santorini - Caldera views and sunset-soaked towns.

• Mykonos - Trendy beaches and Cycladic charm.

• Crete - Minoan ruins and authentic tavernas.

Average Spring Weather:

• Daytime temps around 18-24 °C with lots of sunshine.

• Calmer seas and pleasant breezes make it ideal for sailing and shore exploration.

Popular Cruise Lines in the Greek Islands:

• Celestyal Cruises - Greek specialists with immersive local experiences.

• Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) - flexible Freestyle cruising with island hops.

• Holland America Line - relaxed style with longer Greek itineraries.

• Seabourn Cruises - luxury, small-ship access to boutique ports.

Best For: Island hoppers, history buffs, and foodies.

3. The Italian Riviera & Amalfi Coast

Spring transforms Italy’s coastal jewels into a tapestry of colour: blooming citrus trees, pastel towns and endless sea views. From Cinque Terre’s cliff-top villages to Positano’s postcard-perfect beaches, this region delivers scenery with style.

Why Cruise Here:

• A blend of dramatic scenery, culture and cuisine.

• Excellent ports suited to day and multi-day exploration.

Top Attractions:

• Portofino - Glittering bay and designer hideaways.

• Cinque Terre - Five villages linked by sea and trail.

• Amalfi Coast - Terraced cliffs, lemon groves and seaside charm.

Average Spring Weather:

• Daytime averages 15-22 °C, perfect for hikes, boat tours and coastal dining.

Popular Cruise Lines for the Italian Riviera:

• Costa Cruises - strong Italian-centric itineraries.

• MSC Cruises - frequent calls and immersive excursions.

• Royal Caribbean - broad Mediterranean routes.

• Celebrity Cruises - elevated experiences in Amalfi and coastal Italy.

• Oceania Cruises - food-focused itineraries and port-rich schedules.

Best For: Scenic cruising, photographers and food & wine lovers.

4. The Canary Islands - Tenerife, Lanzarote & Gran Canaria

If sunshine is your priority, the Canaries deliver all year, and spring is no exception. This Atlantic paradise is perfect for those seeking warm climes without a long haul.

Why Cruise Here:

• Reliable sun and mild nights, ideal when UK weather is still unpredictable.

• Diverse landscapes from volcanic peaks to sandy beaches.

Top Attractions:

• Tenerife - Mount Teide trails and black-sand beaches.

• Lanzarote - Lunar landscapes and art-driven towns.

• Gran Canaria - Endless dunes and vibrant nightlife.

Average Spring Weather:

• Daytime temps typically 20-26 °C, with lots of sunshine and sea breezes.

Popular Cruise Lines for the Canary Islands:

• P&O Cruises - UK-friendly itineraries and seasonal Canary sailings.

• Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines - smaller ships with an island focus.

• Royal Caribbean - repositioning cruises with sea days and island stops.

• Celebrity Cruises - premium comfort on Atlantic routes.

• Costa Cruises - seasonal Spring Atlantic sailings.

Best For: Sun-seekers, active explorers and families.

5. Caribbean Escapes - Eastern & Western Routes

The Caribbean is a classic spring and early summer favourite, from white-sand beaches to turquoise waters and tropical culture. Thanks to consistent itineraries from transatlantic crossings or repositioning cruises, spring is a great time to explore the islands before peak hurricane season.

Why Cruise Here:

• Predictable sunshine and sea temperatures.

• Island diversity from laid-back vibes to lively port towns.

Top Attractions:

• San Juan - Historic old town and Caribbean flair.

• St Lucia - Twin Pitons and rainforest hikes.

• Barbados - Beaches, rum tours and Caribbean culture.

Average Spring Weather:

• Warm and tropical 25-30 °C with refreshing breezes offshore.

Popular Cruise Lines in the Caribbean:

• Royal Caribbean - headline Caribbean sailings all season.

• Carnival Cruise Line - lively family-friendly Caribbean routes.

• Princess Cruises - relaxed style with frequent island calls.

• Celebrity Cruises - premium Caribbean experiences.

• Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) - flexible Freestyle cruising across islands.

Best For: Sun lovers, beachgoers and bucket-list cruisers.

Frequently Asked Questions - Spring Cruising

When is the best time to take a spring cruise?

Mid-April through June is ideal. You’ll benefit from longer daylight hours, comfortable temperatures and fewer crowds than in peak summer months.

Are cruises cheaper in spring?

Generally yes. Spring typically falls into shoulder season for many destinations, meaning competitive pricing and better cabin availability.

What should I pack for a spring cruise?

Layers! Daytime temperatures can be warm, but evenings (especially on deck) can be cooler. Don’t forget sunscreen, a light jacket and comfortable walking shoes for shore excursions.

Is spring cruising suitable for families?

Absolutely- especially destinations like the Canaries and parts of the Mediterranean where the weather is pleasant, and excursions are varied.

Do cruises operate the same itineraries in spring as in summer? 

Many popular cruise lines run similar Mediterranean and Canary Island routes in spring, though some ports may vary or have shorter calls due to lighting and seasonal scheduling.