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What’s the Best Month to Cruise? Pros & Cons of Sailing Each Month of the Year

Let’s get one thing straight right at the start. There is no bad time to cruise . Whether you want to have a summer vacation or a winter getaway, the weather somewhere in the Caribbean is always warm and welcoming.

That said, with our experiences having sailed seemingly every month on the calendar, we have found there are definite advantages and disadvantages to sailing each month of the year. For example, cruises in August offer the ability to sail when the kids are out of school (meaning entire families can travel together). On the other hand, August is also notorious for hurricanes disrupting travel to Caribbean ports.

As you’ll see below, there are trade-offs with each time of year to sail. No month is perfect. However, many of the potential downsides are manageable in our opinion — and shouldn’t deter you from taking a cruise when it fits your schedule and budget.

Taking a Cruise in January

Pros : We like sailing in January as one of the biggest advantages of cruising this time of year is price. During this time of year school is in session and many people are back at work after a holiday break. That means it’s difficult for many to cruise. Cruise lines typically have discounted rates to fill up the ship in January; the same cruise departing at the height of the busy summer can cost hundreds of dollars more than in January.

As well, when winter has gripped most of North America, the Caribbean still offers a warm getaway with lots of sunshine. It’s a welcome change from the snow and cold see in most areas.

Cons : If you are a family, it might be tough for you to take a January cruise. It will usually mean the kids have to skip a few days of school to take the trip. In addition, if you have to fly in for your cruise, there are chances of winter weather causing delays to your schedule. You’ll want to make sure you plan your flight to arrive the day before your cruise, just in case. 

As well, this time of year trips from the West Coast will still be cool and Alaskan cruises don’t start sailing until April/May.

Taking a Cruise in February

Pros : February offers the same advantages to sailing as you see in January. Fares are normally discounted, with the ability to save hundreds on a cruise by sailing in February versus the height of the summer season. It’s also cold in most of the United States and Canada, making a warm getaway awfully enticing.

Cons : Like January, you might find it difficult to take time off after the holidays to enjoy a cruise. Doing so means spending vacation days early in the year and/or having the kids miss school. There are also still strong snowstorms in many parts of North America during February, meaning it’s possible that getting to the port can be an adventure if you have to fly in for your cruise from a northern city. 

As well, even if sailing to the Caribbean, the pools and water on a ship may still be too cool to enjoy fully. Don’t plan on spending much time in the water in our experience.

Taking a Cruise in March

Pros : With warmer weather and Spring Break, a cruise is on many people’s minds come March. In fact, if you are a Spring Breaker, this is a great time to sail as a cruise offers an affordable getaway to the beach without having to worry about flights or hotel. Just hop on the ship and start your vacation.

As well, if you’re headed to the Caribbean, March can be warm — but not too warm compared to the heat of the summer months.

Cons : If you aren’t a Spring Break fan, then this might not be the best month to sail. Cruises — especially shorter trips (3-5 days) — will have a younger crowd and more of a party atmosphere. You’ll also see a spike in prices starting in mid-March as cruise lines raise prices for trips that coincide with Spring Break.

Taking a Cruise in April

Pros : April represents one of your last chances to get a deal on a cruise before the busy summer sailing season. Discounts and deals are still available up until about mid-May, giving you the chance to save a bundle on a trip compared to sailing just a month or two later. As well, the threat of snow is diminished in northern parts of the United States and hurricane season isn’t here yet for port cities. It’s hard to find better weather than what you get in April.

Cons : After Spring Break, it’s back to school and work for most people. That means many have a tough time taking a trip at this time a year. That’s unfortunate because April is the “Goldilocks” of cruise months for the Caribbean — it features affordable prices, good weather, and is before hurricane season gets cranked up, which always adds a wildcard to travel in the Caribbean.

Taking a Cruise in May

Pros : Heading into May, cruisers hitting the Caribbean can start to experience some warmer weather both at home and on their cruise. While the water and beach are typically warm enough for swimming and laying out even during the coldest winter months, it is a few degrees warmer in May, which can make it more inviting to hit the beach. For example, Cozumel’s average high in January is 83, compared to 91 degrees in May. If you’re the type who loves warm water, May is when things start to heat up.

Cons : If you wait until too late in the month, you’ll start to see higher prices for your cruise. The end of May marks the start of the summer cruising season, and fares start to jump up. One place where you can save? Cruises to Alaska typically start their season in May, and it’s the cheapest month to sail to that region . We’ve sailed Alaska this time of year and highly recommend it.

Taking a Cruise in June

Pros : If you want a summer getaway with warm weather and water, June is a great choice. Hurricane season starts June 1st, but it’s still rare that you’ll have a chance of a hurricane this early. Meanwhile, the Caribbean is starting to heat up so you can have a true beach summer vacation without worrying about it being too chilly either on the ship or in port. Also, with the kids out of school, you can take them on your trip without worrying about absences.

Cons : With schools out of session and the popular summer vacation season, fares spike for June and through the rest of summer. You’ll usually be paying more for the same cruise compared to taking it earlier in the year. As well, if you aren’t the type that likes to cruise with families on the ship, then keep in mind that summer months typically see an influx of kids.

Taking a Cruise in July

Pros : Like June, you’ll find warm and sunny days filling July. And with the kids out of classes, you’ll have the opportunity to sail without missing school, making it an ideal time to cruise if you are traveling with kids. While it is warm in the Caribbean, regular afternoon “pop-up” showers can help cool things off during the heat of the afternoon. This also represents the height of the Alaskan cruise season, offering the most options (albeit at higher prices) of the year.

Cons : The biggest negative with sailing in July is hot weather. On sunny days, it can get downright hot in many Caribbean ports. If you aren’t used to the heat and humidity, it can be draining. As well, you should start to look out for hurricanes and tropical storms during July — especially if traveling later in the month. While cruise ships will avoid any storms, they can be unpredictable and cause changes to your itinerary.

Also, just keep in mind that you should expect the highest cruise fares of the year during this time.

Taking a Cruise in August

Pros : Consider August the last hurrah if you want to be able to cruise with the kids out of school. While the weather is hot, being able to travel as a family without missing school days is the biggest draw of sailing in this month. If the kids don’t start back until September, then you can sometimes find deals late in the month that can save you considerably on your cruise fare.

Cons : Similar to July, you can run into weather issues in August. Specifically, the heat and humidity is at its worst in the Caribbean during August. While afternoon showers can cool things off, they are not a guarantee. You also have to start worrying seriously about hurricanes. Late August is reaching the peak of hurricane season. While the chances are low that your specific cruise will be hit by a storm (cruise lines steer clears of storms as much as possible), it could disrupt your trip if a hurricane hits a port of call.

Taking a Cruise in September

Pros : With the busy summer cruise season past, students back to school, and summer vacations in the rear view mirror, September offers a “shoulder” season of sorts. While the Caribbean is still warm — perfect for those that want to hit the beach and the water — cruise fares are heavily discounted versus the expensive summer months. In other words, you get the warm weather of the summer with the lower prices of the fall. As well, your cruise is likely to have fewer kids onboard. It’s also the last chance to sail Alaska for the season, when crowds are fewer and fares are generally cheaper.

Cons : September actually marks the peak of hurricane season. Historically, the first week of the month is the busiest for storms and then activity quickly drops off later in the month. Still, even if your ship isn’t directly impacted by a storm, it can cause issues at Caribbean ports.

Taking a Cruise in October

Pros : If you’re not wanting to deal with heat, then October is a great time to visit the Caribbean. While the humidity is always a factor, October sees the start of a cooling trend in the weather. As well, while hurricanes can occur in October, the season is largely over so you don’t have to worry about them disrupting your trip as much. Finally, cruise prices also fall during this time of year, meaning you can book a solid deal without spending a bundle.

Cons : It shouldn’t be a surprise that April and October are two months that we consider great times to sail. Like April, the biggest con is that it can be difficult for people with kids to travel without taking their children out of school for a few days. Apart from that, the month sees good weather and cheaper fares, and it’s before the harsh winter hits many places in the U.S. and Canada, disrupting air travel to the port or the weather in the port city.

Taking a Cruise in November

Pros : By the time November rolls around, people are starting to think of warmer weather, especially if you live in a cold area. Taking a trip during this month can lead you away from the cold and gray to the warm and blue. It’s also a great time to find cheap cruises, apart from trips that sail during the Thanksgiving holiday (which are more expensive).

Cons : Scheduling around the Thanksgiving holiday can be tough, and if you have to fly to your cruise during the busiest travel time in the United States, it can mean dealing with long lines and delays at airports. Apart from that, November is a great time to book a cruise with cheap deals and nice weather in the Caribbean and The Bahamas.

Taking a Cruise in December

Pros : The period between Thanksgiving and Christmas is one of the absolute cheapest times to sail. With many people not looking to travel between these two major holidays, cruise lines slash fares. It’s not unusual to see a trip costing 50% less than a comparable trip during the summer. Needless to say, cruising in December is also a big draw for people wanting to get away from the snow and cold of many places in the north.

Cons : Trying to fit a cruise between Thanksgiving and Christmas can be tough for many schedules. And while many people take a cruise during Christmas itself, those trips are more expensive. If you are traveling by air, be ready for the possibility of delays due to weather and holiday travel crowds.

What Are the Least Expensive Months to Sail?

If you want to sail for cheap, then we suggest looking at months like January, February, April, May, September and October . We find that rates during these months tend to be less expensive than for the same cruise if headed to the Caribbean. During these times fewer people are traveling, leading to generally lower cruise fare.

If headed to Alaska, then the months are more limited. The season runs largely from May through September. In this case the ‘shoulder’ months of May and September offer the lowest prices.

So Which Month Is Best to Cruise?

As mentioned above, there is no “bad” time to sail. However, if we had our pick, we would suggest either April or October if you need to fly into a cruise port . The generally good weather and low prices combine to make it a cheap and easy time to sail.

If you are within driving distance of a port, then you can expand these months to include early winter months and later fall months. During these times the weather on a cruise will be warmer than back home, prices are very affordable, and if driving, you can get to the port without worrying about airline delays.

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Atlantic crossing: When’s the best time to go?

• November 11, 2021

When it comes to an Atlantic crossing there are clearly defined weather windows. But how flexible can you be and what challenges are you like to face? Weather Guru Chris Tibbs reports.

An Atlantic crossing or Atlantic circuit has often been seen as a year-long adventure, crossing the ocean in late November or December to the Caribbean , with a return to Europe starting in May.

There are good reasons for this timetable, the overriding one being the hurricane season. This runs from the beginning of June through to the end of November. Hurricanes can happen outside of the ‘official season’, but they are rare – although the last few years have all seen named storms in May.

By departing towards the end of November, with the bulk of the crossing in December, we maximise the Caribbean season, often coming back to Europe after Antigua Race Week in May.

The Caribbean winter season now begins with two major events starting in January; the RORC Transatlantic Race, and for this year an additional January departure for the ARC. Both are scheduled to depart early January from Lanzarote and Gran Canaria respectively.

Not much to split them? Using reanalysis data and routing software the routes in green show late November departures and those in red January

Interestingly, for the actual crossing from the Canary Islands to the Caribbean, statistics show that the wind tends to become stronger as we get into January and February – so there may be some truth in the Christmas trade winds that we hear about starting to blow around Christmas and lasting well into the following months.

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When departing the Canaries the prevailing wind direction is from north through to east-north-east. These are the trade winds found on the eastern side of the semi-permanent high pressure which we know as the Azores high. The wind blows from this direction for 55-65% of the time with little variation from November to March. However, averages do not tell us everything and we do get a number of days when the Canaries are affected by low pressure passing close to the north.

Winter winds

This is important for a pleasurable passage; few people enjoy headwinds when supposedly on a downwind passage or race. Near the Canaries the wind is between south and west for around 10% of the time in December and higher at 14% in January. That is not a huge difference and the variability between years makes it hard to make firm predictions.

There are lots of statistics from different sources and although they roughly agree the older pilot charts and routing charts tend to indicate a higher incidence of trade winds, while winds derived from newer satellite observations show more variability.

Harry Scott leaving the Canaries.

When looking at reanalysis data we see an even greater variation in the wind patterns, and this is consistent with a greater variability in the weather which we expect with climate change.

Additionally, if the wind becomes south-westerly, the average strength tends to increase from November and December through to February. This is an indication of deeper winter depressions passing closer to, and affecting the Canary Islands.

On the way across there will remain a small chance of south-westerly winds which decreases the further south and west you get; mid-Atlantic adverse and light winds are generally linked to the tail of cold fronts splitting the Azores high or more rarely areas of low pressure.

When to go?

To compare conditions between months, I ran some weather routing for a late November and an early January departure. This was from the Canaries to St Lucia using 11 years of reanalysis data from 2010-2020 departing in late November and early January. By using the polars from a cruiser-racer production boat some of the results were quite surprising.

The earlier departures gave a greater range of routes with the January departures slightly closer to the direct route and to the south; this reflects the expected stronger winds (from historical data) with shorter courses following closer to the great circle route.

However, the main surprise came with the timings as the late November departures were on average 10 hours faster than the January ones. This didn’t make a great deal of sense because historical data, as well as anecdotal evidence from the Caribbean, suggested the later crossings should have stronger and steadier trade winds.

But by looking at the routes and weather patterns a little more closely, I found that on four of the January routes there was low pressure in the central and eastern Atlantic that was further south than usually expected and impacted on the first part of the route. This gave moderate to strong headwinds and a slow start to the passage which was followed by light winds until the trade winds filled in after the lows had moved away.

An unusually large low in January, completely disturbing the trade winds

So a January passage on a ‘good’ year should, given long term average conditions, be faster with stronger wind particularly on the latter part of the passage. But, rather significantly, there is a greater chance of low pressure affecting the Canary Islands and delaying the start if cruising, or giving a period of beating if racing.

Planning our sailing is rarely as simple as deciding a date on which we are leaving. Something that should be taken equally seriously is the weather expected on the passage to the Canary Islands. This is more important when heading south from the UK and north-west Europe, although it must also be taken into consideration when departing from the Mediterranean.

Head south early

The usual advice is to get south as early as possible, as an easier passage will be had in September rather than leaving it until November or December. If crossing the Bay of Biscay, once into September the likelihood of gales increases, as does the probability of south-westerly winds.

In September pilot charts indicate that gales in northern Biscay are likely 3% of the time, which increases to 7% in October and 9% in November. We also get a significant increase in south-westerly winds; this reflects the passing of lows to the north-west which tend to pass further south during autumn and winter.

Classic tradewind setup for an Atlantic crossing. Photo: TimBisMedia

There are some breaks in the weather as cold fronts rattle through veering the wind to the north-west and occasionally to the north. As the season progresses so does the likelihood that the Portuguese trade winds will fail, giving a beat south down the Portuguese coast only picking up the trade winds south of the latitude of Gibraltar.

As we’ve seen from the start of races from France in the autumn, there can be a high attrition rate before the yachts have even left Biscay. It’s not that you can’t cross Biscay in any month, but the later it’s left the longer the time between weather windows and the shorter the weather windows tend to be. This can lead us to make choices based on necessity rather than prudence.

Once south of Portugal we should get into the start of the trade winds – but we still need to watch for lows further south than normal.

While most yachts arrive in the Canary Islands having had a good sail, there are always a number that get caught out and end up beating for some of the way – usually yachts that have left it late and are on a tight schedule. This is also true for yachts leaving the Mediterranean and it’s not uncommon for yachts to have to wait in Gibraltar for strong westerly winds to diminish.

Whether intending to start your transatlantic in November or wait until later, I prefer to see boats south of Biscay well before the end of September and would not be far behind if leaving from the Med.

A crossing in January will generally have stronger winds, but there’s a greater chance of headwinds particularly when getting away from the Canary Islands. Whenever you decide to cross, getting to the Canaries early is important and the later you leave it to get south the more chance there is of having to wait for a weather window.

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How Long To Cruise Across Atlantic

Published: December 20, 2023

Modified: December 28, 2023

by Tine Cavender

Introduction

Embarking on a transatlantic cruise is a unique and awe-inspiring adventure. The romance and mystery of crossing the vast Atlantic Ocean, following in the footsteps of explorers from centuries past, is an experience like no other. But for those considering this epic journey, one of the most common questions is: how long does it take to cruise across the Atlantic?

The answer to this question can vary depending on several factors, including the route taken, the type of ship, and external factors such as weather conditions. In this article, we will delve into the factors that affect the duration of Atlantic cruises, explore different route options, discuss the time taken by various types of ships, and provide tips for planning a transatlantic cruise.

Whether you’re a seasoned cruiser or new to the world of sailing, understanding the factors that determine the length of an Atlantic crossing is essential for proper trip planning. So, let’s dive in and unravel the mysteries of timing when it comes to cruising across the Atlantic.

Factors Affecting the Duration of Atlantic Cruises

Several factors influence the length of time it takes to cruise across the Atlantic. Understanding these factors can help you plan your journey more effectively. Here are the key factors that affect the duration of Atlantic cruises:

• Route: The chosen route plays a significant role in determining the duration of the cruise. The most common routes include sailing from the East Coast of the United States to Europe, or vice versa, with stops in ports along the way. The specific route and distance covered can impact the overall time spent at sea.
• Ship’s Speed: The speed at which the ship travels is another critical factor. Modern cruise ships are designed to have a cruising speed that maximizes fuel efficiency and passenger comfort. Faster ships can cover the distance more quickly, reducing the overall duration of the cruise.
• Weather Conditions: Mother Nature can have a significant impact on the duration of an Atlantic cruise. Adverse weather conditions, such as storms or strong winds, can slow down the ship’s progress and potentially lead to itinerary changes. It’s important to keep in mind that weather conditions can be unpredictable and may affect the estimated duration of the voyage.
• Season: The time of year that you embark on your transatlantic journey can also impact how long the cruise will take. Some ships offer dedicated transatlantic crossings during specific seasons, while others incorporate the journey into longer itineraries. The prevailing winds and currents during different times of the year can affect the speed of the ship and subsequently the duration of the cruise.
• Port Stops: If your transatlantic cruise includes port stops along the way, the duration of the overall voyage will be influenced by the time spent in each port. It’s important to consider the length of these stops when calculating the total duration of your cruise.

By taking these factors into account, you can have a better understanding of what influences the duration of your transatlantic cruise. Next, let’s explore the various route options available for crossing the Atlantic.

Route Options for Crossing the Atlantic

When it comes to crossing the Atlantic by cruise ship, there are several route options to consider. The most common routes include:

• The North Atlantic Route : This route typically starts from ports along the East Coast of the United States, such as New York or Miami, and heads towards popular European destinations like Southampton, England, or Barcelona, Spain. Along the way, ships may make stops at ports in Canada or the Caribbean.
• The South Atlantic Route : Alternatively, some cruises follow a more southerly path, starting from Florida or the Caribbean and sailing towards destinations like Brazil or South Africa. This route offers a unique opportunity to explore exotic locations while making your way across the Atlantic.
• The Roundtrip Transatlantic Route : For those who prefer a more comprehensive journey, some cruise lines offer roundtrip transatlantic cruises. These voyages depart from a port in North America or Europe and follow a circular route, allowing passengers to experience both sides of the Atlantic without the need for a one-way flight.

Each route has its advantages and considerations. The North Atlantic Route is popular because it connects major cities and offers a variety of cultural experiences along the way. The South Atlantic Route provides the opportunity to explore less-traveled destinations, while roundtrip transatlantic cruises offer a more immersive experience.

When choosing a route, consider your preferences, desired destinations, and available time. Keep in mind that each route can have different durations depending on the factors mentioned earlier.

Now that we have discussed the route options, let’s dive into the time taken by different types of ships for transatlantic crossings.

The Time Taken by Different Types of Ships

The duration of an Atlantic cruise can vary depending on the type of ship you choose. Different ships have different speeds and itineraries, which can significantly impact the overall time taken for the crossing.

Luxury cruise liners, renowned for their amenities and onboard activities, generally have a slower cruising speed. These ships prioritize passenger comfort and leisure, resulting in a longer duration for transatlantic crossings. However, with longer travel times, passengers can enjoy more time to relax, indulge in onboard entertainment, and take advantage of the ship’s amenities.

In contrast, smaller expedition-style ships, which emphasize exploration and immersion, often have faster cruising speeds. These ships are designed to navigate more efficiently through various weather conditions, allowing for quicker crossings. While these ships may not offer as many onboard activities as luxury liners, they provide unique opportunities for wildlife encounters, expert-led lectures, and personalized experiences.

It’s important to consider your preferences and priorities when selecting a ship for your transatlantic journey. If you prefer a relaxed and indulgent experience, a luxury cruise liner may be the perfect option. On the other hand, if you prioritize exploration and adventure, an expedition-style ship may be more suitable.

Additionally, it’s worth noting that certain ships specialize in transatlantic crossings and may offer dedicated voyages during specific seasons. These cruises often have carefully planned itineraries and take advantage of favorable weather conditions to ensure a smooth and efficient journey across the Atlantic.

As you plan your transatlantic cruise, take into account the cruising speed and itinerary of different ships to determine the duration that best aligns with your preferences and schedule.

Now that we have explored the time taken by different types of ships, let’s delve into the average duration of Atlantic cruises.

Average Duration of Atlantic Cruises

The average duration of an Atlantic cruise can vary depending on several factors, as mentioned earlier. However, to provide a general guideline, a traditional transatlantic crossing typically takes around 6 to 8 days.

It’s important to note that this duration can vary depending on the route and the specific itinerary of the cruise. Some voyages may include additional port stops along the way, extending the overall duration of the journey. Conversely, dedicated transatlantic cruises that prioritize non-stop crossings may have shorter durations to minimize time spent at sea.

When considering the average duration, it’s essential to account for the time spent at ports of call, as well. Transatlantic cruises often offer opportunities to explore fascinating destinations, allowing passengers to disembark and explore during specified port stops. The duration of these stops can vary from a few hours to several days, depending on the itinerary and the preferences of the cruise line.

Furthermore, it’s worth mentioning that the average duration can be influenced by external factors such as weather conditions. Adverse weather, including strong winds and rough seas, can impact the speed of the ship and potentially lead to delays or itinerary changes.

Ultimately, the duration of an Atlantic cruise will depend on your specific cruise line, ship, itinerary, and personal preferences. It’s recommended to review the details provided by the cruise line for the exact duration of the voyage you are interested in.

Now that we have discussed the average duration of Atlantic cruises, let’s move on to some tips for planning a transatlantic cruise.

Tips for Planning a Transatlantic Cruise

Planning a transatlantic cruise requires thoughtful consideration and attention to detail. Here are some tips to help you make the most of your journey:

• Research cruise lines and itineraries: Start by researching different cruise lines that offer transatlantic crossings. Consider their reputations, onboard amenities, and itineraries to find the one that best suits your preferences and interests.
• Choose the right time of year: Consider the time of year when planning your trip. Spring and fall tend to be popular seasons for transatlantic cruises due to milder weather conditions and favorable winds. However, it’s important to keep in mind that weather can be unpredictable, so be prepared for potential changes.
• Take advantage of onboard activities: Transatlantic crossings often involve several consecutive sea days. Take the opportunity to enjoy the onboard activities and amenities offered by the ship. This could include lounging by the pool, dining in specialty restaurants, attending entertainment shows, or participating in enrichment programs.
• Pack appropriately: Pack for different weather conditions, as temperatures can vary during the crossing. Additionally, consider the dress code of the cruise line and pack accordingly for formal nights or themed events. Don’t forget essentials like sunscreen, comfortable shoes, and any necessary travel documents.
• Stay connected: While crossing the Atlantic, internet connectivity might be limited or available at an additional cost. If staying connected is important to you, check with the cruise line about their internet options and make necessary arrangements in advance.
• Prepare for sea sickness: If you are prone to motion sickness, consider packing motion sickness remedies such as medication or wristbands. Additionally, choose a cabin location that minimizes the rocking sensation, such as a mid-ship cabin on a lower deck.
• Explore shore excursions: Although transatlantic cruises primarily involve sea days, some itineraries include port stops. Research the available shore excursions at each destination to make the most of your time on land. Whether it’s exploring historical sites, enjoying local cuisine, or engaging in adventure activities, there is something for everyone.

Remember to check with the cruise line for any specific requirements or recommendations during the planning process. With careful planning and preparation, your transatlantic cruise can be a memorable and enriching experience.

Now that you have these tips in mind, you are well-equipped to plan your transatlantic cruise. Safe travels and enjoy your journey across the Atlantic!

Embarking on a transatlantic cruise is a remarkable adventure that grants you the opportunity to traverse the vast Atlantic Ocean, relishing in the allure of the open sea. The duration of an Atlantic cruise can vary depending on factors such as the chosen route, ship speed, weather conditions, and itinerary.

By understanding these factors and considering the available route options, you can make an informed decision about how long your journey will take and which destinations you will visit along the way. Whether you opt for a traditional transatlantic crossing or choose a more unique route, the experience will undoubtedly be awe-inspiring.

When planning your transatlantic cruise, remember to research different cruise lines, consider the time of year that best suits your preferences, and take advantage of onboard activities and amenities during sea days. Packing appropriately, staying connected, preparing for sea sickness, and exploring shore excursions are also vital aspects to keep in mind.

With careful planning and an adventurous spirit, your transatlantic cruise will surely be an unforgettable journey filled with incredible sights, memorable moments, and enriching experiences. So, pack your bags, set sail, and embrace the adventure that awaits as you traverse the Atlantic Ocean on a remarkable cruising expedition.

Safe travels, bon voyage, and may your transatlantic cruise be a voyage of a lifetime!

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The Thrill of an Off-Season Transatlantic Cruise, Rough Seas and All

Late fall and winter sailings across the atlantic on cunard line’s classic “ queen mary 2 ” ocean liner can bring unpredictable weather. for enthusiasts, that’s part of the appeal..

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For some, crossing the Atlantic via cruise ship represents a way to connect with history and with the vast open sea.

Photo by Jonathan Atkin/Cunard

Somewhere in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean, Reverend John Hartnett, a retired Episcopal priest from Bethany, Connecticut, took advantage of the relative calm after days of stormy seas to go for a swim in the outdoor pool on Cunard line’s 2,705-passenger Queen Mary 2 ocean liner.

He had the swimming pool entirely to himself, as temperatures were in the 40s, not factoring in the windchill of the sea breeze.

“Outside was the cold air and the heated water and the sun and the rocking boat and the wind,” Hartnett, 71, says. “It was my favorite part of the whole voyage.”

Hartnett was one of my fellow passengers on a November crossing from Southampton, United Kingdom, to New York City, during which we had encountered severe gale force winds reaching up to 49 knots, caused by a storm that the ship headed south to avoid.

Hartnett was unbothered. Feeling the waves was one reason that he and his wife, Susan, had come on board for a round-trip sailing from New York, with time in Europe in between.

“I wanted the experience of being in the ocean,” he says. “If I wanted an easy trip, I would have flown. I wanted the full experience of weather and thinking of what it was like crossing the ocean for hundreds of years.”

The 151,000-ton Queen Mary 2 is the only passenger cruise ship in the world that sails regularly scheduled transatlantic cruises , crossing between Southampton and Brooklyn in seven nights.

The idea behind Queen Mary 2 is it’s built to handle this kind of weather. It can take everything the weather throws at it and keep on going.

On summer sailings, barring any storms, the Atlantic can be as calm as a lake, as I have previously experienced. Sailings in November and December attract cruisers eager to witness some sea action. The ship later takes a winter break, doing its annual multi-month world cruise.

“I’ve always found appealing that it can be fierce and raging outside, and inside it’s warm and cozy and the jazz band is playing,” says cruise historian and writer Aaron Saunders, who had treated himself to this crossing as a 40th birthday present. “The idea behind Queen Mary 2 is it’s built to handle this kind of weather. It can take everything the weather throws at it and keep on going.”

The Queen Mary 2 , or QM2 as it’s often called, is a large ship—having broken the world’s largest passenger ship record (which has since been surpassed several times) when it was christened by Queen Elizabeth II in 2004. It was built with a reinforced steel hull, four stabilizers that smooth the ride, and engines that can easily do 28 knots, or 32 miles per hour (the average speed for a cruise ship is approximately 20 knots, or 23 miles per hour).

As someone who suffers from seasickness , I had some trepidation in taking a November transatlantic cruise, while my husband, who would gladly stand on deck amid 40-foot waves if allowed, was gleeful about the prospect of some turbulence.

With the help of prescription motion sickness medication, a Transdermal Scopolamine patch behind my ear, and a little Dramamine, I got through the several stormy days drowsy but without ever even missing a meal.

There are downsides to what the ship’s captain described as “boisterous” seas. At times during our sailing the outdoor decks, including the teak promenade that you can walk or jog three times around for a mile of exercise, were closed.

Those hitting the large dance floor in the ship’s impressively elegant, high-ceilinged Queens Room ballroom occasionally had to be careful about how they placed their feet. Even when slow dancing to Elvis’ s “Can’t Help Falling in Love,” played by a talented St. Lucian dance band in the G32 nightclub, I found myself clinging to my husband and thankful I hadn’t packed higher heels.

Occasionally, you’d hear a glass falling off a table and smashing. At one point the divider between our stateroom veranda and the next came loose and was banging against our glass door until it was repaired by crew members.

Hotel director David Shepherd said that room service increased dramatically on our cruise when some of the 2,205 mostly British, American, and European guests on board stayed in their room during rocky stretches. But for the majority, the action is a draw.

“If you get the bouncy weather, it’s a bonus,” Shepherd says. “And people love sitting at the windows, looking outside at the waves crashing up.”

Is seven days at sea even enough?

Ballroom dancing, bridge, theater shows, live music, and lectures are among the activities available on Queen Mary 2 sailings.

Courtesy of Cunard

A question I get from friends when I mention a transatlantic sailing on the QM2 , which I had done twice before in calmer seas, is, “What’s there to do with a whole week at sea?”

My answer, “What’s there not to do?”

The daily activity roster is packed. On one day, I counted 60 activities available before 7 p.m., not including beauty and wellness seminars and massages and other treatments at the spa, where a heated thalassotherapy pool is a prime attraction.

There is purposely something for everyone on board, from the smattering of families to the larger swath of passengers who fall into the more general category of 55-plus travelers.

Our Veterans Day sailing was offered in collaboration with the Greatest Generations Foundation, an organization that helps combat veterans return to battlegrounds and memorials. Hosting presentations on life, death, and heroism were 18 veterans from World War II and the Korean and Vietnam wars. A rapt audience packed the ship’s Royal Court Theatre daily to hear all they had to say.

Beyond the veteran-themed programming, the standard daily insights and enrichment offerings featured a marine scientist talking about subjects such as fish with jaws that hinge and animals that produce light; a military historian on the British defeat of the Zulu Nation; and a forensic medical examiner telling the real story of the Elephant Man.

There’s a long lineup of classes for everything from ballroom dancing to bridge. Contests included trivia, darts competitions in the Golden Lion Pub, and blackjack tournaments in the casino. Or you could while away hours watching movies such as Star Wars Episode IX: The Rise of Skywalker in the theater or Back to the Future in your stateroom.

I packed a Kindle loaded with books I’ve wanted to read, but there was also the option of heading to the ship’s bow for a hugely impressive ocean-view library stocked with more than 9,000 tomes.

At night, you could catch show productions in the theater, with singers and dancers performing Broadway tunes, comedian sets, or an impressive array of live music, including a folk duo and harpist. The Royal Shakespeare Company, which produces shows for QM2 based on excerpts from Shakespeare plays and acting workshops (the actors also host informal events where they perform their favorite sonnets and speeches and answer audience questions), doesn’t perform during the off-season sailings but will return in the spring after the world cruise.

The ship’s most iconic entertainment is ballroom dancing, on full display especially on two gala nights—the Black and White Ball and the Masquerade Ball. Those who don’t want to dress up can stick to the ship’s more casual eateries and lounges. Those who do, put on a show in their tuxes and gowns. Passengers who know how to ballroom dance take to the dance floor to show off their waltz, rumba, and cha-cha moves to a crowd of onlookers. My husband and I reserved our dancing for the nightclub, where there was less public scrutiny.

Each evening, when we finally returned to our stateroom, we wondered where the day (and evening) had gone.

The different classes of service

Passengers dining in the Britannia Restaurant are treated to a feast for the senses.

Photo by Shutterstock

When you book the QM2 you choose a class of service, and your level of accommodation determines where you dine. Hotel director Shepherd compares it to choosing a seat on a transatlantic flight—whether you want to fly coach, premium economy, business class, or first class. “It has a lot to do with space,” he says.

Guests in entry-level Britannia cabins are assigned to the ship’s main dining room, a glamorous, two-deck affair with a grand staircase, art deco–inspired decor, and impressive menus that might feature chicken leek terrine or Asian-style tuna tartare followed by rosemary and garlic grilled lamb cutlets or rainbow trout amandine for dinner. Breakfast might be eggs Benedict, avocado toast, or a full English spread, and for lunch a Thai curry or chicken cacciatore. Britannia Club balcony accommodations come with slightly upgraded dining in an exclusive restaurant.

Our Princess Grill accommodations consisted of a spacious stateroom with a sitting area and veranda, a walk-in closet, and a bathroom with a tub, as well as a reserved dining table in an intimate restaurant exclusively for the 150 Princess Grill guests on board. In addition to entrées like chateaubriand and particularly good vegetarian options, such as zucchini and sweet potato noodles in a creamy, coconut milk herb sauce, we could request tableside-finished dishes such as Dover sole meunière, rack of lamb, or roast duck à l’orange.

Top-tier Queens Grill guests stay in lavish suites with butler service and dine in a separate restaurant where they can order anything their heart desires. “There’s not a lot we don’t carry on board,” says Shepherd. “There’s a huge list of ingredients we carry exclusively for Queens Grill guests. That’s what makes that so special. If they want fresh lobster, they get fresh lobster.”

Both Princess and Queens guests have exclusive access to a private Grills Lounge with a terrace, where you might take your afternoon tea or sip martinis at night while mingling with other elite guests.

While the ship operates with a casual dress code by day and “smart attire” most nights, most Grill guests interpret this as collared shirts by day and jackets for men at dinner. During one lunch, I felt some looks when I went into the Princess Grill restaurant wearing more casual leggings.

A floating piece of history

On a transatlantic sailing with Cunard, guests become part of a decades-long legacy of cruises that cross the pond.

When you sail on the QM2 , there is a sense you are part of a long-standing tradition of crossings—Cunard’s first transatlantic cruise was 180 years ago.

During our sailing, the ship passed about 46 miles from the final resting place of the Titanic , a moment to pause in remembrance if you were awake at 3 a.m.

I wanted the experience of being in the ocean. If I wanted an easy trip, I would have flown.

Some of us, like me, come on board keenly aware that our immigrant families traveled across the Atlantic in steerage, fleeing oppression. I got up early as we neared Brooklyn so as not to miss first sight of the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island, which my ancestors saw more than 110 years ago. If this is important to you, book accommodations on the portside of the ship on westbound voyages, which also has the advantage of additional sunshine on clear days if your cabin has a window or veranda.

Hartnett, who has done a half-dozen crossings on the QM2 , says when on board he reflects on time and place.

“The first time we did this I thought we’d see ships every day and we saw ships the first and last day,” he says. “I was impressed how big the ocean is.”

On the November crossing, he was thinking about his father and his father’s peers, who shipped out to Iceland in a convoy during World War II.

“Think of what it would be like on a much smaller ship in much worse circumstances and much worse weather with the possibility of being torpedoed,” he says. “This is a little bit of a pilgrimage in solidarity with them.”

• Cruise Advice

Cruising During Hurricane Season: What You Need To Know

Richard Simms

• August 28, 2023

Cruising during hurricane season can be risky but also cheaper and less crowded. It’s important to take precautions for a safe and enjoyable trip.

Cruising during hurricane season requires careful consideration of geographical factors. Since areas like the Caribbean and the Gulf of Mexico are more prone to hurricanes, it’s important to research your destination and choose a flexible cruise line for unexpected weather events.

What is Hurricane Season?

Hurricane season is the time of the year when tropical storms and hurricanes are most likely to occur because of mild weather.

In the Atlantic, hurricane season runs from June 1 to November 30, with the season’s peak occurring in August and September. During this period, the Atlantic Ocean is warm enough to fuel the formation of tropical storms and hurricanes. In the peak of hurricane season, the water in the Caribbean and Gulf of Mexico can be as warm as 90 degrees.

The Atlantic hurricane season typically produces 12 named storms, with six becoming hurricanes and three becoming major hurricanes. However, the number of storms and their intensity can vary yearly, depending on factors like ocean temperatures, wind patterns, and atmospheric conditions.

During the 2022 Atlantic Hurricane Season , 16 tropical cyclones formed, Out of those, 14 intensified and were given names.

When planning a cruise during hurricane season, it is essential to keep an eye on the weather and to be prepared for the possibility of itinerary changes or cancellations. Cruise lines have contingency plans for dealing with storms, but it is always a good idea to have travel insurance and be flexible with your plans.

Understanding hurricane season and the risks associated with cruising during this time can help you make informed decisions and stay safe while enjoying your vacation.

Cruising During Hurricane Season

If you plan to cruise during hurricane season, keeping an eye on the weather forecasts before and during your trip is essential. Cruise lines have established procedures to deal with adverse weather conditions, and they will typically monitor the weather closely to ensure the safety of their passengers and crew.

When booking a cruise during hurricane season, purchasing travel insurance that covers trip cancellations and interruptions due to weather-related issues is also a good idea. Some cruise lines may also offer their own insurance policies that provide additional coverage.

If a hurricane is forecasted to affect your itinerary, the cruise line will typically make necessary changes to the route to avoid the storm. This may include changing ports of call, altering the duration of the trip, or canceling the cruise altogether. 

Suppose a hurricane is expected to impact your vacation directly. In that case, the cruise line directly will likely email you before embarkation day with details about the trip or ports of call changes.

Cruising during hurricane season can be an exciting adventure, but being well-prepared and aware of the risks is essential. By keeping an eye on the weather forecasts, purchasing travel insurance, and understanding the procedures of the cruise line, you can ensure a safe and enjoyable cruise vacation.

Geographical Considerations

The Caribbean is a popular destination for cruises, but it is also one of the areas most impacted by hurricanes. The hurricane season in the Caribbean runs from June to November, with the peak season being from August to October.

When planning a Caribbean cruise during hurricane season, choose your itinerary carefully. Some areas of the Caribbean are more prone to hurricanes than others, and it is important to avoid these areas during hurricane season.

Western Caribbean cruises , which typically include destinations such as Jamaica, Grand Cayman, and Cozumel, are more likely to be affected by hurricanes than Eastern Caribbean cruises, which usually include destinations such as St. Thomas, St. Maarten, and Puerto Rico.

It is also important to note that storms can affect other areas of the Caribbean, such as the ABC islands (Aruba, Bonaire, and Curacao), the Bahamas, and Bermuda.

Safety Measures and Precautions

When cruising during hurricane season, safety is always the top priority. Fortunately, cruise ships are equipped with advanced technology and highly trained crews to ensure the safety of all onboard. 

One of the most critical safety measures is the captain’s decision-making process. Captains are trained to monitor weather conditions and make informed decisions about the ship’s route and itinerary. If a hurricane is predicted to be in the ship’s path, the captain may alter the course or cancel the trip.

Cruise ships also have advanced safety technology, including radar, sonar, and satellite communication systems. These tools enable the crew to monitor weather conditions and communicate with other ships and emergency services if necessary.

RELATED : Are Cruise Ships Safe?

Cruise ships have extensive emergency procedures in place in the event of an emergency. All passengers must participate in a safety drill at the beginning of the trip, which includes instructions on evacuating the ship in an emergency. Crew members are also trained to handle various emergencies, from medical emergencies to fires and floods.

Passengers can take additional precautions to ensure their safety during hurricane season. It is recommended that they pack a basic emergency kit, including a flashlight, batteries, and a first aid kit. They should also stay informed about weather conditions and follow the captain’s instructions.

The Benefits of Cruising During Hurricane Season

Before we go one step further, it’s important to note that planning a cruise during hurricane season can be a gamble. It also comes with several risks, which we’ll discuss in the next section. But definite pluses make this a time of year worth considering.

For one thing, the latter part of the hurricane season falls when most kids are back in school. You still have the tail-end of summer, meaning cruising out of ports like New York City in still-gorgeous weather but with fewer families. Given that many clans try to fit four or five people into a stateroom, the fewer families on any sailing, the lower the overall number of people aboard. And that means more room for you.

Impact on Itineraries

Cruising during hurricane season can significantly impact itineraries, causing port stops, missed ports, and ship rerouting changes. It is essential for passengers to understand the potential itinerary changes that may occur due to hurricanes and to be prepared for such changes.

Possible Itinerary Changes

Cruise lines have established procedures to monitor weather conditions and make necessary itinerary changes to ensure the safety of passengers and crew. If a hurricane is forecasted to impact a port of call, the cruise line may cancel the port stop and replace it with an alternative port.

In some cases, the ship may need to reroute to avoid the hurricane entirely, resulting in a change of itinerary. These changes may occur before embarkation day or while you’re sailing on your cruise.

Missed Ports and Rerouting

Cruise lines typically offer compensation in the form of onboard credit or a refund of the port fees in case of a missed port. Passengers may also participate in an alternative activity onboard the ship. If the ship needs to reroute, the cruise line will typically provide updates and keep passengers informed of any changes to the itinerary.

Passengers must understand that itinerary changes can occur anytime during the cruise, even after the ship departs from its home port. Passengers should remain flexible and be prepared for potential changes to their itinerary due to hurricanes.

How to Deal with Delays and Cancellations

When cruising during hurricane season, it’s essential to know that delays and cancellations are possible. The safety of passengers and crew is the top priority, and cruise lines will take necessary precautions to avoid any potential danger.

If a storm or hurricane is approaching, the cruise line may alter the itinerary or even cancel the cruise altogether. In this case, passengers will typically be notified as soon as possible and given the option to reschedule or receive a refund.

It’s important to note that cruise lines are not responsible for any additional costs incurred due to delayed or canceled cruises, such as flights or hotels. Passengers should always purchase travel insurance to cover any unexpected expenses.

In the event of a missed port due to weather conditions, the cruise line will typically offer compensation. This may include a refund of port fees or a credit towards a future cruise.

It’s important to review the cruise contract and reservation details carefully to understand the policies and procedures in case of delays or cancellations. By being prepared and informed, passengers can confidently navigate any unexpected situations.

It’s a good idea to print out the Ticket Contract before you accept the terms and conditions for your cruise.

Travel Insurance and Compensation

Cruising during hurricane season can be risky, and travelers are often concerned about what will happen if their cruise is cancelled or delayed due to weather conditions. Fortunately, many cruise lines offer insurance and compensation options to protect travelers from unexpected events.

Travel insurance is one of the most important things to consider when booking a cruise during hurricane season. 

RELATED: What You Need to Know About Travel Insurance

Travel insurance can cover various issues, such as trip cancellations, medical emergencies, and lost or stolen luggage. In case of a cruise cancellation due to weather or other reasons, most cruise lines offer a full refund or rescheduling option.

However, outside costs of the cruise, such as non-refundable hotel rooms or airfare with hefty change fees and booked tours or shore excursions outside of the cruise line, are not covered.

It is important to buy insurance during hurricane season, and it should be done promptly. 

Why? Two reasons. 

First , if you want a policy with a Cancel For Any Reason (CFAR) clause (which we highly recommend), it usually needs to be purchased within two weeks of the initial deposit. 

Secondly , to make any hurricane-related claim, the policy has to have been purchased before the storm is named. 

In other words, you cannot wait until the last minute to learn about the hurricane, buy an insurance policy, and attempt to file a claim.

It’s essential to carefully read the cruise line’s ticket contract and the travel insurance policy’s explanation of benefits before agreeing to the terms and conditions.

Some cruise lines may also offer compensation for inconveniences caused by weather-related delays or cancellations, such as additional hotel stays or transportation costs. It’s important to check with the cruise line to see what compensation options are available.

Port taxes and fees are another consideration when booking a cruise during hurricane season. If a port is closed due to weather conditions, cruise lines may be required to refund these fees to travelers.

Travelers should also watch for special offers and lower prices for cruising during hurricane season. While booking a cruise at a lower price may be tempting, it’s important to consider the potential risks and understand the cruise line’s cancellation policy.

Tips for Cruising During Hurricane Season

Cruising during hurricane season can be daunting, but it can still be a great vacation with the proper preparation and attitude.

Here are some tips to help you navigate the potential challenges of cruising during hurricane season:

1. Choose Your Destination Wisely

When planning a cruise during hurricane season, choosing your destination wisely is important. Some areas are more prone to hurricanes than others, so do your research and select a destination that is less likely to be affected.

For example, cruises to Alaska or Europe are less likely to be impacted by hurricanes than cruises to the Caribbean or the Gulf of Mexico.

2. Be Prepared for Seasickness

The seas can be rough during hurricane season, so preparing for seasickness on a cruise is important. Bring any necessary medication or remedies, such as ginger or motion sickness bands, and consider booking a cabin in the middle of the ship, where the motion is less noticeable.

3. Have the Right Attitude

When cruising during hurricane season, having the right attitude is essential. Understand that the weather is out of your control and that the ship’s crew is doing everything possible to keep you safe. Stay positive and enjoy the other aspects of your cruise, such as the onboard activities and entertainment.

4. Have a Backup Plan for Travel

Be flexible. If a hurricane does impact your cruise, it’s essential to have a backup plan for travel. 

Purchase travel insurance covering weather-related cancellations and delays, and have a plan for alternate travel arrangements, such as flights or hotels.

Following these tips and being prepared, you can still enjoy a fantastic cruise during hurricane season.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the atlantic hurricane season for cruises.

Hurricane season for cruises typically runs from June 1 to November 30. During this time, tropical storms and hurricanes are more likely to occur in the Caribbean, Gulf of Mexico, and Atlantic Ocean.

Can cruise ships go around hurricanes?

Cruise ships can change their itinerary and route to avoid hurricanes. They can also speed up or slow down to stay ahead of or behind a storm. However, it’s important to note that rerouting a ship can cause changes in the ports of call and itinerary.

What happens on a cruise if a hurricane is coming?

If a hurricane is approaching, the captain and crew will closely monitor the storm’s path and adjust the ship’s route as necessary. Passengers may experience changes in the itinerary, such as skipping ports of call or spending more time at sea. The ship may also encounter rough seas and high winds, causing some discomfort for passengers.

Is it safe to cruise during hurricane season?

Cruising during hurricane season can be safe, but knowing the risks and potential changes to the itinerary is important. Cruise lines have extensive safety protocols in place to ensure the safety of passengers and crew during storms.

How often do cruise ships get caught in storms?

While cruise ships do their best to avoid storms, they can get caught in bad weather. However, this is relatively rare; cruise lines have protocols to keep passengers safe during these situations.

This article was original published in 2019 and updated in 2023.

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Atlantic Canada Reports Record-Breaking 2023 Season

• November 27, 2023

The Atlantic Canada Cruise Association (ACCA) announced the results of its 2023 cruise season.

The group said the 2023 season exceeded expectations, showcasing the resilience and appeal of Atlantic Canada as a premier cruise destination, according to a press release.

The region hosted more than 600 cruise ships, building on the strength observed in 2022 with a 28 percent increase in port calls; 868,938 passengers had the opportunity to explore the attractions of Charlottetown, Corner Brook, Halifax, Saint John, and Sydney.

Niche Ports across the region also maintained their appeal, drawing in over 34,000 passengers this season.

The 2023 season saw record-breaking activity at the Port of Sydney, with a 74 percent increase and the Port of Corner Brook, with a 58 percent increase in cruise passenger visits since 2022. Across the region, April-to-August cruise passenger visitation grew from 157,454 (2022) to 235,962 (2023). Port Saint John was also a finalist in the category of “Port of the Year,” being one of the top three cruise ports in the world. With such steady growth in the number of cruise ship calls and passengers over 2023, there is strong anticipation of another upward trend in the coming year, the group said.

While economic impact numbers for the 2023 season are pending, the ACCA said it recognizes the critical role of cruise tourism to the Atlantic Canadian tourism sector, with pre-pandemic numbers indicating an impact of over 2,000 jobs and $347 million to the region’s economy.

The ACCA also announced it is launching a compelling digital campaign, strategically timed during the cruise season’s shoulder period. This initiative aims to ensure that the region remains at the forefront of people’s minds as they plan future vacations.

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Cruising during hurricane season: What to know — and should you go?

Veteran cruisers know that fall is a great time to snag a deal on a cruise to the Caribbean or Bahamas. But the deals come with a big caveat: Fall is hurricane season in these regions, and there's a chance a hurricane or tropical storm could disrupt your sailing.

During most years, at least a few fall cruises are affected by storms. In some years, dozens of voyages are affected.

For more cruise guides, news and tips, sign up for TPG's cruise newsletter .

Still, even during peak hurricane season weeks (more on that below), most sailings in the Caribbean and the Bahamas are completed without a hitch. Here's what you need to know before committing to cruising during hurricane season in these regions.

When is hurricane season for cruises?

In theory, a hurricane or tropical storm can develop in the Atlantic at any time. Still, the vast majority of such storms — about 97%, according to the National Hurricane Center — occur between June 1 and Nov. 30 of any given year. This is the period known as hurricane season in the Atlantic, and it typically brings about 14 named tropical storms, half of which become hurricanes.

Within this time frame, the peak period for tropical storms in the Atlantic, by far, is the weeks between mid-August and mid-October. This is the key "iffy zone," as I like to call it, for cruises to the Caribbean and the Bahamas , as well as sailings out of eastern U.S. ports to Bermuda and New England.

Still, even during peak weeks for hurricane formation, the odds of your cruise being affected by a hurricane are relatively small. A glance at any cruise booking site will show hundreds of sailings departing for the Caribbean and the Bahamas each year during cruise hurricane season. In most years, though, only a small portion of these are affected by tropical storms.

Even during the busiest of hurricane seasons, there will be many weeks without a single tropical storm in the Caribbean or Bahamas. When a large storm does swirl through the Caribbean or Bahamas, it'll likely only affect a small portion of the region and, thus, only a small number of cruise ships.

One thing to keep in mind is that the Caribbean is enormous in comparison to the size of a typical hurricane. The distance between Belize, on the western end of the Caribbean Sea, and the easternmost Leeward Islands is nearly 2,000 miles. The hurricane-force winds of a typical small hurricane, by contrast, extend just 25 miles out from its center. The hurricane-force winds from a large hurricane might extend as far as 150 miles from its center.

Related: A beginners guide to picking a cruise line

Even a giant hurricane that is bearing down on St. Thomas in the U.S. Virgin Islands (a common port on Eastern Caribbean sailings), for instance, is likely to have little or no impact on a Western Caribbean or Southern Caribbean sailing happening at that time.

Trying to predict where tropical storms will hit in any given year is a fool's game. But if you're playing the odds, one area that is known for seeing fewer storms on average is the southern part of the Caribbean. The southerly islands of Aruba, Bonaire and Curacao (common stops on Southern Caribbean itineraries), in particular, are far south of the typical hurricane track and experience few fall storms.

How many hurricanes are expected in 2024?

For the 2024 hurricane season specifically, Colorado State University's tropical weather and climate team is predicting an "extremely active" year with 23 named storms for the season as a whole, of which 11 would become hurricanes.

Of those, five could become major hurricanes with sustained winds of 111 mph or more, according to the forecast.

The Colorado State team cited record warm tropical and eastern subtropical Atlantic sea surface temperatures as a primary factor for the elevated forecast.

The Colorado State forecast was released on April 4.

The U.S. government's National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration is expected to release its official forecast for the number of named storms and hurricanes in 2024 in May.

Your hurricane season cruise itinerary could change

When a tropical storm does appear in one part of the Caribbean or Bahamas, the standard response from cruise lines is to reroute ships in that area to other parts of the Caribbean or Bahamas that are well clear of the storm. This can mean a last-minute change to your cruise itinerary.

Depending on the forecasted track of the storm, the change could be relatively minor — a port stop being pushed back by a day, for instance, or one port being swapped for another port. It could also be far more significant.

To avoid storms, cruise lines will sometimes completely rework an itinerary. A ship on an Eastern Caribbean sailing to such stops as St. Thomas and St. Kitts might reroute to such Western Caribbean ports as Cozumel, Mexico, and Falmouth, Jamaica.

In some cases, a storm will cause a port to be dropped from an itinerary with no new port added as a replacement. Occasionally, you'll see cruises shortened or extended by a day or two or even three.

The latter situation can occur when a storm is forecast to pass between a ship and its home port around the time the vessel is scheduled to be heading home. The ship either will return to the home port early to arrive before the storm or stay out at sea for extra days to wait for the storm to pass.

Related: 26 cruise secrets from a cruising expert that will blow your mind

In rare cases when a home port closes due to a storm, ships have been known to sail to an alternative port to drop off passengers. In such situations, the vessels sometimes will depart on their next cruise from the alternative port. Cruises are canceled occasionally when a home port experiences extended disruptions related to storms, but this is relatively rare.

You aren't entitled to compensation for itinerary changes

Cruise lines aren't obligated to offer you compensation if they change an itinerary due to weather. The fine print in cruise contracts allows them to make such changes when they see fit. However, that doesn't mean they never offer compensation.

In the case of a port swap — when one port is substituted for another — there typically isn't any compensation offered. When a port is missed without a substitute, though, there's a chance you might be offered an onboard credit as compensation. Just don't count on it. Lines will also refund the cost of any prepaid shore excursions scheduled for the missed port and the portion of port taxes and fees you paid in advance that are associated with that port.

In the case of a shortened voyage, lines will typically offer a prorated refund for the lost days. On the flip side, when cruises are extended, lines generally won't charge passengers anything more for the extra days — at least for room, board and entertainment. Passengers typically will still have to pay for onboard extras such as drinks and spa treatments.

When cruises are shortened or extended due to weather, cruise lines will often aid passengers who need to change post-cruise travel plans. They might offer free phone calls from the ship or free internet access to make it easier for passengers to contact airlines and hotels to make changes.

You won't get a refund if you cancel a cruise to avoid a storm

As a rule, cruise lines don't offer refunds to passengers who cancel a voyage on short notice, even if there's a big storm brewing in the area where the cruise is scheduled to take place.

If you see there's a hurricane churning toward the Caribbean a few days before your departure, you can't call your cruise line, cancel the trip and expect to get your money back.

From the cruise line's point of view, the cruise will go on — it just might be adjusted a bit. (Or not, depending on how the storm tracks over the coming days.) As far as the line sees it, you're still about to get what you paid for: a wonderful cruise vacation.

That said, there are exceptions to the rule. When a line knows in advance that a storm will cause a significant alteration to a voyage (for instance, lost days due to a delayed departure), it sometimes will allow passengers to cancel for a refund or credit toward a future cruise.

This happened in 2017 when some lines delayed departures out of Florida as Hurricane Irma approached. The lines that delayed departures allowed passengers to cancel for a refund in the form of a cruise credit. Alternatively, passengers could proceed with the shortened trips and receive a prorated refund for the missed days.

Related: The best time to cruise to the Bahamas

When a line cancels a departure outright, it's sometimes the case that it will offer passengers both a refund for the trip and a future cruise credit they can apply to their next sailing. This sort of response was on display in 2017 as Irma's approach prompted some lines to cancel itineraries altogether.

One problem that cruisers encounter in these (relatively rare) situations where a cruise line cancels a sailing due to a storm is that the cancellation usually comes at the last minute. That could leave you in limbo in the days leading up to your cruise, wondering whether your cruise is on or not. If a hurricane is headed for your departure port, you might have to decide whether to travel to the departure port (and possibly into a dangerous storm) or stay home and risk losing all the money you paid for the sailing.

Each line approaches compensation issues differently, and some are historically more generous than others in offering compensation when storm-related disruptions occur. The responses from lines can also vary depending on the circumstances surrounding any given storm.

To avoid remorse, my advice is to go into any hurricane-season booking assuming you will not be compensated for storm-caused itinerary changes and not be able to get a refund if you cancel the trip at the last minute.

The risk of the above is one reason you will generally get a cruise during hurricane season at a lower price than you would during other seasons.

Build wiggle room into your hurricane season travel schedule

If you're booking a cruise during hurricane season, keep in mind that tropical weather can affect not only cruise ships but airplanes, too.

If you're flying to your cruise departure point, build in plenty of wiggle room in case air travel is affected by a big storm and flights are delayed. Your flight could be delayed by a storm that is far away from the destination where you are flying. During hurricane season, tropical storms moving through the Caribbean and into the Gulf of Mexico and up the East Coast of the U.S. can sometimes snarl air traffic across a wide swath of North America.

At TPG , we always suggest that cruisers head to their departure ports at least a full day in advance of their sailings just to be safe, and this is doubly important during hurricane season. You don't want a delayed flight to be the reason you miss your cruise .

Travel insurance is key for fall cruises

It's always a good idea to book flights and cruises with a card that provides travel protections — and this is especially important during hurricane season.

Some cards, such as the Chase Sapphire Reserve® , will reimburse you for at least some of the costs of trip delays, cancellations and interruptions related to severe weather if you have booked the trip on the card. The travel protection benefits provided by such cards may also reimburse you for expenses when your baggage is lost or delayed.

Just be warned that these benefits often come with a lot of fine print that can make it tough to collect in some circumstances.

You can also buy separate travel insurance just for the single trip that will provide reimbursement if you experience trip delays, cancellations or interruptions. These plans include a lot of fine print that limits the circumstances where they are valid, and they vary widely in what they offer.

While travel insurance policies often will cover the cost of changing a flight or pre-cruise hotel reservation if a storm delays your cruise departure, they generally don't offer compensation in the case that a cruise line changes the ports on your cruise due to a storm. Travel insurance policies also won't help if you cancel a cruise to avoid a storm — unless you've bought a pricey "cancel for any reason" policy.

Also note that to make any claim under a travel insurance policy related to a cruise marred by a hurricane or tropical storm, you have to have bought the policy before the storm formed and was officially named.

Related: The 5 best cruise travel insurance plans

You may experience rough seas

Cruise lines will reroute ships by hundreds of miles to avoid tropical storms and hurricanes. That doesn't mean you can always expect smooth sailing during hurricane season.

If a big storm is present in the Caribbean or Bahamas, there's a chance you'll feel some motion on your vessel, even if it's far from the center of the storm. Swells from big storms can travel thousands of miles.

If you're particularly prone to seasickness , hurricane season might not be the best time for you to cruise. But don't panic. Cruise ships are built with sophisticated stabilizers that tamp down the effects of waves. As ships have gotten bigger, on average, they've also become more stable. It takes a lot to move a giant vessel like Royal Caribbean's Wonder of the Seas — at 236,857 tons, it's one of the world's largest cruise ships.

Any rough seas you may experience due to a nearby storm are likely to be temporary. Many cruise ships operating in the Caribbean can sail at speeds of up to 22 knots, or about 25 mph. That means they can move as much as 300 miles in one day. You can be somewhere stormy and rough one day only to find yourself in sunny and clear conditions a day later.

Just as airline pilots maneuver to avoid turbulence , cruise ship captains and their headquarters-based overseers are keenly aware of passenger safety and comfort. They aren't shy about making a call to reposition a vessel to calmer seas.

Be careful booking shore excursions during hurricane season

Not all cruisers book shore tours through their cruise line. Some book excursions through alternative tour companies such as Viator or PortSide Tours. If you go this route for a hurricane-season cruise, be sure to check cancellation policies before prepaying for excursions.

While cruise lines will automatically refund you for prepaid shore excursions you've booked directly with them in the case of a canceled port call, it isn't a given that an outside tour company will do the same. Some will, for sure, but others require a nonrefundable deposit that may be hard to get back, even in the case of a storm-caused itinerary change. (Note: Travel insurance policies sometimes cover the cost of lost nonrefundable deposits.)

Related: How to book a cruise using points and miles

Bottom line

Cruises that take place in the Caribbean and the Bahamas during the height of hurricane season can be an incredible deal, and many are completed with nary a problem. However, before booking one, you want to be sure you're OK with the idea that your itinerary could change on short notice or be disrupted in some other way. It doesn't happen often, but it does happen.

If you're booking a cruise to the Caribbean or Bahamas to see a specific destination — St. Kitts, for instance, or the British Virgin Islands — a hurricane-season cruise may not be for you. However, if you're flexible and want a fun and inexpensive getaway at sea, there's no reason to fear a fall sailing.

Planning a cruise? Start with these stories:

• The 5 most desirable cabin locations on any cruise ship
• The 8 worst cabin locations on any cruise ship
• A quick guide to the most popular cruise lines
• 21 tips and tricks that will make your cruise go smoothly
• 15 ways cruisers waste money
• 15 best cruises for people who never want to grow up
• What to pack for your 1st cruise

Atlantic Canadian Cruise Association Makes Waves with Milestone 2023 Season

Halifax, Nova Scotia – The Atlantic Canada Cruise Association (ACCA) is thrilled to announce the outstanding success of its 2023 season, marking yet another milestone in the region’s cruise industry. The 2023 season exceeded expectations, showcasing the resilience and appeal of Atlantic Canada as a premier cruise destination. 

The 2023 Cruise Season Results are In  

The region hosted more than 600 cruise ships, building on the strength observed in 2022 with a 29% increase in port calls (this percentage was updated on December 29, 2023). An impressive 870,130 passengers (this number was updated on January 19, 2024) had the opportunity to explore the attractions of Charlottetown, Corner Brook, Halifax, Saint John, and Sydney. Niche Ports across the region also maintained their appeal, drawing in over 34,000 passengers this season. 

“We applaud the Atlantic Canada Cruise Association on yet another successful cruise season. The dedication to providing an exceptional experience for cruise guests showcases the strength and vibrancy of the region’s cruise industry,” said Kelly Craighead, CEO of the Cruise Line International Association (CLIA). 

Record-Breaking Performance in Key Ports  

The 2023 season saw exceptional performances, including record-breaking activity at the Port of Sydney, with a 74% increase and the Port of Corner Brook, with a 58% increase in cruise passenger visits since 2022. Across the region, April-to-August cruise passenger visitation grew from 157,454 (2022) to 235,962 (2023). Port Saint John was also a finalist in the category of “Port of the Year,” being one of the top three cruise ports in the world. With such steady growth in the number of cruise ship calls and passengers over 2023, there is strong anticipation of another upward trend in the coming year. 

The ACCA extends gratitude to all its ports and partners who have contributed to the success of the 2023 cruise season. Their support, commitment to excellence, and hospitality, have been instrumental in attracting cruise lines and passengers to our region. 

Cruise Tourism’s Economic Importance  

While economic impact numbers for the 2023 season are pending, the ACCA recognizes the critical role of cruise tourism to the Atlantic Canadian tourism sector, with pre-pandemic numbers indicating an impact of over 2,000 jobs and $347 million to the region’s economy. The dedication of our ports, partners, and the local community have contributed to the success of individual ports and reinforces the overall economic importance of cruise tourism in Atlantic Canada. 

In an effort to elevate Atlantic Canada’s status as a premier cruise destination, ACCA is launching a compelling digital campaign, strategically timed during the cruise season’s shoulder period. This initiative aims to ensure that the region remains at the forefront of people’s minds as they plan future vacations. The success of the 2023 season sets a promising foundation, and we look forward to continued partnerships and growth in the coming year. 

– 30 – 

For more information: 

Sarah Rumley  Executive Director, Atlantic Canada Cruise Association  [email protected]   (902) 229-4304 

About ACCA:  

With its stunning coastline, picturesque towns, and friendly locals, Atlantic Canada offers unique and memorable experiences for visitors. Each port has something special to offer, from New Brunswick’s magnificent Bay of Fundy and Newfoundland and Labrador’s breathtaking scenery to Prince Edward Island’s vibrant culinary scene and Nova Scotia’s rich culture and historic sites. The cruise industry’s continued growth in the region provides local businesses with ample opportunities to grow and thrive, making 2023 an exciting year for the entire Atlantic Canada community. The Atlantic Canada Cruise Association (ACCA) is a regional partnership between ports, tourism, and cruise ship interests, as well as the four provincial governments and the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency. ACCA works diligently to promote the sustainable growth of Atlantic Canada as a cruise destination through strategic leadership, collaboration, partnerships, and innovative marketing.

• RMS Queen Mary 2 Cruises

CUNARD QM2 SHIP CRUISE ITINERARY, SCHEDULE, PRICES, INFORMATION

• World Cruises
• Transatlantic
• QM2 Transatlantic Crossings

This is the Cunard Queen Mary 2 Transatlantic cruise 2024-2025-2026  schedule of all one-way and round-trip Atlantic Ocean crossings. It shows all departures from New York ,  Southampton-London , and Hamburg as dates and prices per person. RMS Queen Mary 2 Transatlantic crossings are part of the Cunard Line’s regular Atlantic Ocean crossing service between the UK and the USA (London/Southampton and NYC New York). Next is the link to our complete  QM2 itineraries and schedule  (all sailing dates with the lowest prices comparison). This link is to our review of QM2 cruise ticket prices .

Longest QM2 Transatlantic crossings are between New York and Hamburg (Germany /9-day itinerary with Southampton, England). The longest QM2 Transatlantic cruises are when the Caribbean or Canada New England is part of the Atlantic Ocean crossing itinerary.

RMS Queen Mary 2 Transatlantic cruise experience

The Cunard Line maintains a scheduled Trans-Atlantic Ocean passenger service between the UK and the US. It’s almost like a ferry cruise service – but it’s absolutely not a ferry one!

The Cunard Transatlantic cruise schedule offers at least one crossing a month between UK/Southampton and USA/New York City, in the period from April to November or early December. Most of the crossings are 6 nights / 7 days in length. On the Cunard’s RMS Queen Mary 2 ship, it’s definitely the most civilized and adventurous exciting way to visit the UK and USA – or both!

Doing the 7-day voyage on Queen Mary 2 is not a Transatlantic cruise – it’s an Atlantic crossing. Most of the Transatlantic cruises are operated only in the low season when quite a number of cruise ships reposition between Europe and the North or South American continents. But the huge number of QM2 passengers use the Cunard crossings as their preferred travel mode between Europe and the USA. And QM2 is not any ship and not a regular “cruise ship” – she’s a real-deal ocean cruise liner, which power and hull strength helps her to withstand the nasty North Atlantic weather.

Celebrating the 200th QM2 Transatlantic Crossing

To mark her 200th Atlantic Ocean crossing, RMS Queen Mary 2 performed on July 6th a sail-by of NYC’s most famous attraction – the Statue of Liberty. The list of onboard special events includes lectures and presentations by renowned speakers (by the “Cunard Insights” enrichment programme), Big Band musical performances, a most special Gala Dinner (on 11 July). Stephen Payne (a naval architect, responsible for the QM2 design) will present an insight into her construction. He is also guest of honour at the Gala Dinner. Another renown speaker is the BBC’s Nick Owen. Performing onboard is a jazz orchestra of 13 musicians and 1 vocalist from the Juilliard School (juilliard.edu). They will perform in the Royal Court Theatre (in the evening), an afternoon tea dance, lunchtime jam sessions (in the Chart Room), and a late evening in the Illuminations (planetarium).

RMS Queen Mary 2 Transatlantic Crossing statistics and facts

• This cruise liner is one of the biggest (weight 151,000 tons, capacity 2,500+ guests, and 3,056 max/all berths, 1,250 crew), longest (1,132 ft), tallest (550 ft) and most expensive (cost to build USD 800 million) passenger ships ever built. QM2 is also the only one still operational ocean liner, and she is the fastest cruise ship in the world (service speed 34 mph). RMS QM2 is the most famous cruise ship afloat – simply there’s no other ship in the world to enjoy such respect and recognition.
• In the course of the vessel’s 200 Transatlantic Crossings over 500,000 passengers were carried. They have consumed more than 8,400,000 cups of tea; more than 980,000 scones; over 481,000 bottles of champagne; more than 644,000 eggs; nearly 960,000 liters of milk, and 22,400,000 meals have been served. More than 1,000 dogs have been transported in the QM2 kennels.
• In comparison to other Cunard ships, QM2 has many seasons still ahead – RMS Queen Mary (1001 crossings), RMS Queen Elizabeth (896 crossings), ms Queen Elizabeth 2 (812 crossings).

The Cunard’s flagship QM2 cruise liner is a classic/authentic Trans-Atlantic Ocean liner offering deals on regular one-way and round-trip Cunard crossings between UK/England and USA/New York (NYC, Brooklyn). The regular QM2 crossings also offer cruises between New York and Hamburg (Germany) – again with both one-way and longer round-trip itinerary. In this survey, we list only the regular crossings which do not include additional ports of call.

Queen Mary 2 Transatlantic 2024-2025-2026 crossings (UK-USA-UK-Germany)

The following tables show all Queen Mary 2 ship departures from Southampton to New York and the reverse from New York to Southampton. They are part of the ship’s scheduled regular service on  Cunard Transatlantic Crossings: Westbound routes (from the UK to the USA) and Eastbound routes (from the USA to the UK). Prices are only indicative and subject to change.

QM2 schedule from Southampton to New York (UK-USA crossings) and Hamburg (UK-Germany)

The Queen Mary 2 cruise ship is usually departing from Southampton at 5PM and arriving in New York from 6:30 to 7AM. For exact New York USA arrival times please visit the Cunard Line’s website.

Cunard QM2 Southampton cruise port embarkation

There are four possible Southampton cruise terminals where you can board the Queen Mary 2 ship – so check your booking for the exact terminal:

• QE2 Terminal (dock gate 4)
• City Terminal (dock gate 10)
• Mayflower Terminal (dock gate 10)
• Ocean Terminal (dock gate 4).
• The taxi service from Southampton Central is ~10 min, costs ~£7 to Mayflower/City, and ~£10 to QE2/Ocean terminals.
• For schedules and price information on all the trains to Southampton from London and other major UK cities please visit nationalrail.co.uk. For the port’s cruise ship schedule you can visit CruiseMapper (cruisemapper.com/ports/southampton-port-115).

Queen Mary 2 Southampton boarding/check-in services open at 1 pm, and close ~3:45 pm (the exact check-in time is on your Cunard ticket). The line will also send you or you can download and print information about your departure date and room number (print them and put one on each of your bags). Remember that the baggage weight limit is 23 kg / 51 pounds per bag (no limit about their number).

At the check-in service desk, you show your ticket, passport, and credit card for on-ship purchases, and a photo will be taken for security purposes. You will be given a plastic card acting as an embarkation card, room key, and charge card on the ship. After the security check, you embark on the RMS Queen Mary 2.

Cunard QM2 New York cruise port disembarkation

All QM2 NYC disembarkation procedures are delivered to your cabin 1/2 days before the Brooklyn arrival. The Cunard’s “Express disembarkation” service allows you to leave the QM2 ship ~1/2 hour after docking (~7:30am). The standard procedure includes delivering to your cabin of colored labels for your baggage 1 day before the NYC arrival (put one on each of your bags, move them outside your cabin by the door between 8-12 pm the night before arrival. Your bags will be st the Brooklyn cruise terminal next morning, in a dedicated zone marked with your labels color. Know that they disembark the more expensive rooms guests first. The QM2 disembarkation time is 8-11 am.

QM2 schedule from New York to Southampton (USA-UK crossings) and Hamburg (USA-Germany)

Qm2 new york cruise information.

The Queen Mary 2 ship is usually departing from the New York cruise port terminal in Brooklyn at 5 PM. The ship’s check-in services start at 1 PM, and close at 3:45 PM. QM2 arrives at the Southampton cruise port at 6:30 AM. Again, please visit the line’s website for the exact Southampton UK arrival times confirmation.

QM2 New York/Port Brooklyn embarkation

Queen Mary 2 New York boarding/check-in services open at ~1 pm to ~3:45 pm (local time). The embarkation time, along with the other standard procedures information are the same as those about the UK departures from Southampton, since this is the Cunard policy and not the port policy-related issue. So you have the e-tickets with all the info, Cunard will send you labels with departure dates/room numbers, the bag weight limit is again 23kg per bag, you get through the security check, join the queue for check-in, show tickets/passports/credit cards, they take your photo, give you the plastic card for onboard uses, and you embark the cruise ship Queen Mary 2.

The QM2 Southampton disembarkation procedures are also the same as those for the NYC disembarkation – you’ll receive a note explaining them outside your cabin 1 or 2 days before the UK arrival, you can choose standard or “Express” disembarkation, put labels on your bags, place the bags outside your cabin between 8-12 pm the night before the UK arrival, etc. The London/Southampton disembarkation is between 8-11 AM local time.

Note: For exact times and prices on trains to NYC leaving from major US cities please visit amtrak.com  (the Amtrak train schedule).

QM2 schedule from Hamburg to Southampton and New York (Germany-UK-USA crossings)

You can share our “QM2 Transatlantic” review and the RMS Queen Mary 2 Transatlantic cruise schedule via our social buttons. Enjoy the ever best of the best British cruise ships departing from Southampton and New York, and be always happy on your uniquely special Cunard Transatlantic crossings on Queen Mary 2 – the Royal Mail Ship of the 21st century!

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First Atlantic tropical disturbance of 2024 no longer monitored by National Hurricane Center

In the atlantic basin, the tropical cyclone season begins june 1, with the average first development happening about june 20. the first tropical storm of the 2024 season will earn the name of alberto..

First tropical disturbance of 2024 no longer monitored by NHC

The National Hurricane Center is no longer monitoring a tropical disturbance in the Atlantic Ocean after it moved into an unfavorable environment for development.

MIAMI – More than 30 days out from the official start of the Atlantic hurricane season, the National Hurricane Center (NHC) tracked the first feature of the year. However, like many off-season developments, it was just a meteorological wonder.

The NHC gave the area of low pressure, which was more than 1,000 miles off the African coast, just a 10% chance of development on Wednesday and said its window for organization would likely end on Thursday.

The FOX Forecast Center said the area of low pressure broke away from a frontal boundary to become its own unique feature in the open Atlantic.

Due to the position of the area of low pressure, the disturbance was simply a marine interest until upper-level winds sheared away thunderstorm activity on Thursday.

No tropical development is expected over the next seven days.

(FOX Weather)

NEW FORECAST CONE TO BE TESTED BY NATIONAL HURRICANE CENTER DURING 2024 SEASON

NOAA warned the system was producing wind gusts of about 35 mph, and seas were reported to be 11-14 feet in the vicinity of thunderstorms.

Satellite imagery showed the swirl diving to the southwest Wednesday ahead of the unfavorable conditions that developed.

Elsewhere around the Atlantic Basin, computer forecast models show no development of tropical cyclones through at least the first week of May.

The Pacific Ocean is usually the first basin in the Western Hemisphere to see tropical cyclone formation during the year, but there, too, conditions look status quo for the next several weeks.

2024 ATLANTIC HURRICANE SEASON COULD BE AMONG MOST ACTIVE ON RECORD, EXPERTS PREDICT

This satellite image shows the area of disturbed weather in the Atlantic Ocean on Thursday, April 25, 2024.

2024 hurricane season expected to be very active

The development of an off-season cyclone does not guarantee that a year will be extremely busy. However, coupled with an active hurricane outlook released by Colorado State University (CSU) , it puts weight behind the idea that 2024 could be a banner year.

The CSU team is calling for 23 named storms, with 11 that are expected to become hurricanes and five that could reach major hurricane status, with winds of at least 111 mph.

Forecasters noted that the outlook was the largest prediction for named storms that CSU has ever issued.

In the Atlantic Basin, the tropical cyclone season begins June 1 , with the average first development happening about June 20. The first tropical storm of the 2024 season will earn the name of Alberto.

2024 CSU hurricane outlook compared to an average season. ( )

Hurricane season 2024 Atlantic Basin tropical cyclone names. ( )

CSU April hurricane forecasts. ( )

• Extreme Weather

Early tropical disturbance forms, fizzles as experts warn of bad Atlantic hurricane season

The National Hurricane Center issued its first advisory of the year on Wednesday , a month before the official start of the Atlantic hurricane season .

The advisory was issued for a tropical disturbance that was far out to sea, and has since dissipated, the hurricane center said late Wednesday.

The otherwise nondescript system was notable for being the first sign of what's expected to be a ferocious hurricane season in the Atlantic , with potentially dozens of storms.

Preseason forecasts from top hurricane experts point to a "hyperactive" or "explosive" season. One group Wednesday from the University of Pennsylvania predicted a record-breaking 33 named storms this year.

The most active year on record was 2020, when 30 storms formed. A typical season sees 14 storms.

Forecasters cite unusually warm ocean water as one factor. Hurricanes and tropical storms gain their power from warm ocean water.

“We’ve seen many hyperactive seasons over the past decade, and in just about all cases, like our prediction for this year, the activity is substantially driven by ever-warmer conditions in the tropical Atlantic tied to large-scale warming,” said University of Pennsylvania meteorologist Michael Mann, who led the research group.

Other teams, such as AccuWeather and Colorado State University , are also predicting above-normal hurricane activity this year. Federal forecasters from NOAA will release their forecast in late May.

Where was the disturbance?

The disturbance was located in the Atlantic Ocean, about 900 miles northwest of the Cabo Verde Islands on Wednesday, the hurricane center said . It had produced "a small but persistent area of showers and thunderstorms to the east of its center since Wednesday morning."

The hurricane center gave it a "low" chance for development into a tropical cyclone, and that came to fruition late Wednesday as the system dissipated: "Additional development is not expected," the hurricane center said.

The hurricane center will issue daily tropical outlooks beginning May 15, unless a disturbance worth monitoring appears earlier in the Atlantic basin. The Atlantic basin covers the northern Atlantic, the Caribbean Sea and the Gulf of Mexico.

A special tropical outlook is issued — as was the case Wednesday — if something develops ahead of May 15.

When does the hurricane season start?

The 2024 Atlantic hurricane season officially starts June 1. However, "preseason" storms have formed with regularity in May over the past decade. One — Tropical Storm Arlene in 2017 — formed in April.

This year, the first hurricane name will be Alberto.

Contributing: Cheryl McCloud, USA TODAY NETWORK

2024 Hurricane Season: Early area of low pressure not a precursor to busy season

A petite but persistent swirl of thunderstorms in the far-off Atlantic Ocean caught the eye of the National Hurricane Center on Wednesday, triggering a special forecast more than a month ahead of the June 1 start of hurricane season.

But the short-lived “area of interest”, which fizzled before warranting a second alert, is not an indicator of a busy season ahead, hurricane experts said.

Most predictions are calling for above-normal tropical activity this year as warm ocean water combines with La Niña, but that doesn’t correlate with Wednesday’s early-season blip 900 miles northwest of the Cabo Verde Islands.

More: 2024 hurricane season: More storms expected as La Niña and warm waters combine

“Even if it did get organized, it would not be indicative of things to come,” said Tom Kines, a senior meteorologist with AccuWeather. “To be honest, I wasn’t even aware the NHC had checked that system out.”

April is early to identify an area of interest for a potential tropical cyclone but it’s not unprecedented. Philippe Papin, a hurricane specialist with the National Hurricane Center, said in a social media post that Wednesday’s special outlook is the sixth earliest in the past 15 years.

The NHC will begin issuing regular daily forecasts for the tropics May 15. Before 2021, forecasts began on June 1, but six consecutive years of early-forming tropical cyclones led the NHC to begin in mid-May.

Phil Klotzbach, a senior research scientist at Colorado State University and lead writer of its seasonal hurricane forecast, said activity ahead of June 1 typically does not correlate with what happens the rest of the year.

The exception to that rule is if the early activity happens in the tropics, Klotzbach said. Wednesday’s rogue area of low pressure was in the East-Central subtropical Atlantic.

“So I’d say a blip is definitely the way to characterize that system,” he said.

Jon Erdman, a senior meteorologist with Weather.com, called it a “curiosity” in a social media post.

Sea surface temperatures between 3 and 7 degrees above normal in the Atlantic basin may have contributed to the area of low pressure gaining some brief momentum Wednesday, Kines said.

The high temperatures are a key reason seasonal forecasts this year are calling for above-average activity.

Colorado State University is forecasting 23 named storms, including 11 hurricanes. That’s the highest number of hurricanes in CSU’s April forecast going back nearly 30 years. CSU will update its forecast June 11.

An average hurricane season has 14 named storms and seven hurricanes.

“Given the combined hurricane-favorable signals of an extremely warm Atlantic and a likely developing La Niña, the forecast team has higher-than-normal confidence for an April outlook that the 2024 Atlantic hurricane season will be very active,” CSU’s forecast notes.

There is an 80% chance of La Niña conditions for the peak of hurricane season, according to the Climate Prediction Center. La Niña reduces the wind shear in the Atlantic basin, allowing budding tropical cyclones to grow.

More: Hurricane season: High chances La Niña will be here for peak season. That's not good news

The University of Pennsylvania’s 2024 hurricane forecast was issued Wednesday and calls for a whopping 27 to 39 named storms. AccuWeather is forecasting 20 to 25 named storms.

The highest number of named storms on record came in 2020 with 30. The 2005 hurricane season had 28 named storms, followed by 21 in 2021 and 20 in 2023.

“Let’s not rush this hurricane season too quickly,” Kines said. “Every hurricane season over the past several years has overachieved, but what happens at the end of April is not an indicator of what is going to happen in August.”

Kimberly Miller is a journalist for The Palm Beach Post, part of the USA Today Network of Florida. She covers real estate and weather, and has a certificate in weather forecasting from Penn State. Subscribe to The Dirt for a weekly real estate roundup. If you have news tips, please send them to [email protected].   Help support our local journalism, subscribe today.

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* Terms & Conditions Package not available on sailings less than 5 days or charter sailings.

Norwegian Cruise Line Launches 2024 Europe Season: New Homeports, Endless Adventure and Unmatched Value

This Year, NCL Offers More than 100 Immersive Europe Itineraries from 13 Homeports Across Nine Ships, Including Its Newest Prima Class Vessels

Company to Launch First-Ever Summer Season of Sailings Between New York City to Reykjavik, Iceland Beginning July 2024 

NCL Delivers an Incredible Value-for-Money Travel Experience with Inclusive Vacation Enhancing Benefits with its Free at Sea Offer

• Norwegian Viva - Aerial - Lisbon Norwegian Viva in Lisbon during her first call on Aug. 19, 2023
• Norwegian Escape - Santorini - Composite
• Norwegian Prima in Reykjavik, Iceland
• Norwegian Star - Aerial Norwegian Star at sea Pacific Coast

Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL), the innovator in global cruise travel with a 57-year history of breaking boundaries, launched its 2024 Europe travel season on April 19, 2024 with the arrival of Norwegian Epic to its seasonal homeport of Civitavecchia (Rome), Italy, before embarking on a 10-day Greek Isles and Italy voyage.

During this summer travel season, guests embarking on NCL cruises in Europe will have the opportunity to choose from 101 distinctive itineraries with 38 roundtrips and 63 open-jaw sailings, calling to 140 captivating ports across Northern Europe, the Mediterranean, Greek Isles, and the Atlantic Coast.  Additionally, guests can fully explore highlight destinations such as Istanbul, Turkey; Florence (Livorno), Italy and Reykjavik, Iceland with select itineraries offering overnight calls. Cruises will be departing from 13 homeports with New York City; Le Havre (Paris), France; and Oslo, Norway being three brand new options for NCL voyages to Europe.  The Company will have a total of nine ships 1 in region, including its newest innovative vessels, Norwegian Prima and Norwegian Viva , as well as Norwegian Escape , which returns to Europe following its first successful season in 2022.

With an average of 10 hours in port, guests can explore at their leisure or choose from a wide range of shore excursions designed to provide guests with an in-depth experience of each destination. For more immersive experiences, NCL offers a unique collection of shore excursions including, Beyond Blueprints, where guests uncover the design secrets and stories of Europe's most iconic architectural landmarks; Gourmet Tours, designed for the foodie-driven traveler allowing them to go behind the scenes of local cuisines; and Go Local, a selection of excursions inviting guests to unveil the everyday rhythms and customs of life in destinations. Guests aiming to spend even more time in Europe and dive deeper into the rich history of the region can take advantage of NCL's expanding Cruisetours program, a pre- or post-cruise-option that includes roundtrip flights, hotel stays, transportation and excursions. Cruisetours are currently available in 10 European destinations, such as Istanbul, Turkey; Paris, France; Barcelona, Spain; Reykjavik, Iceland; Rome and Venice, Italy, amongst others.

“As we return to Europe for this season, our goal remains consistent—curating unmatched and captivating experiences for guests to immerse in Europe’s most iconic and sought-after destinations, while delivering value for them to maximize their journey with us,” says David J. Herrera, president of Norwegian Cruise Line. “In fact, we have found that cruising to Europe with NCL offers up to 40% 2  more value than a similar land-based vacation, making it not just a memorable experience, but a cost-effective one. There is still time for guests to book that last-minute trip to Europe with NCL and enjoy the beauty of waking up in a new destination nearly every day.” 

Not only does a NCL cruise in Europe offer a great value when compared to a similar land-based vacation with comparable services and inclusions 2 , but it also provides a significantly enhanced experience with a variety of offerings to enjoy on board, including high-production value entertainment; up to 20 world-class dining options; and a wide array of shipboard activities suitable for the whole family, from thrilling races on the only three-level racetracks at sea to serene moments in the award-winning Mandara Spa ® .  Moreover, with NCL's Freestyle Cruising philosophy, guests have the freedom to tailor their vacation experience to their preferences, with no fixed schedules or dinner times.  NCL’s freedom of choice and value proposition invites guests to explore the world while enjoying the convenience of unpacking just once and waking up in a new and exciting destination almost every day.  Plus, with NCL’s Free at Sea offer, guests can customize their vacation even more to their desires by receiving value-enhancing vacation perks such as specialty dining, unlimited beverage package, shore excursion credits, free airfare for the second guest, and others.

As we return to Europe for this season, our goal remains consistent-curating unmatched and captivating experiences for guests to immerse in Europe's most iconic and sought-after destinations, while delivering value for them to maximize their journey with us. In fact, we have found that cruising to Europe with NCL offers up to 40% 2  more value than a similar land-based vacation, making it not just a memorable experience, but a cost-effective one. There is still time for guests to book that last-minute trip to Europe with NCL and enjoy the beauty of waking up in a new destination nearly every day.  

Itinerary highlights for NCL cruises in Europe include:

Norwegian Star Sails a Series of Open-Jaw Sailings to Iceland, Greenland and Canada

Norwegian Star, the only ship in NCL's award-winning fleet equipped for polar navigation, which makes it possible for it to reach ports above the Arctic Circle.  As such, the ship will be the first in the NCL fleet to offer a new summer series of breath-taking and port-rich 12- to 14-day open-jaw sailings between New York City and Reykjavik, Iceland with calls to Akureyri and Grundarfjordur, Iceland; Qaqortoq, Greenland; and St. John's (Newfoundland) and Halifax, Canada. These itineraries will embark in July and August 2024.

Explore the Blue and White Greek Isles with Norwegian Getaway

Norwegian Getaway will homeport in Athens (Piraeus), Greece on June 25 embarking on seven- to 10-day Greek Isles roundtrip itineraries . Each day, the ship will moor at a new port allowing guests to explore bucket-list destinations like Istanbul, Turkey; Iraklion, Santorini and Mykonos, Greece as well as hidden gem Izmir (Ephesus), Turkey. Select departures include overnight stays in Istanbul giving guests more than 24 hours to visit Hagia Sophia, Topkapı Palace and the Grand Bazaar.

Norwegian Viva’s Cruises to the Mediterranean

Between May and November 2024, NCL's newest ship, Norwegian Viva, offers guests a selection of nine, 10- and 11-day open-jaw voyages cruising the Mediterranean. These unique itineraries feature a different embarkation and disembarkation port in sought-after destinations such as Athens (Piraeus), Greece; Lisbon, Portugal; Venice (Trieste) and Rome (Civitavecchia), Italy, allowing travelers the opportunity to plan an extended vacation either pre- or post-cruise. 

Almost No Days at Sea Onboard Norwegian Escape’s Mediterranean Sailings

Norwegian Escape will be the Company's largest vessel in Europe this season at nearly 165,000 gross tons. The ship will homeport in Barcelona, Spain; Civitavecchia (Rome), Italy; and Trieste (Venice), Italy sailing eight- to 10-day roundtrip sailings in the Western Mediterranean calling to a sun-kissed port each day as well as seven- to 11-day open-jaw sailings with stints in Italy, Greece and France with only one day at sea.

Additionally, NCL cruises in Europe are already on sale through December 2025 giving guests the chance to plan and book their next summer getaway early.

For more information about the Company's award-winning 19-ship fleet and worldwide itineraries, or to book a cruise, please contact a travel professional or visit  www.ncl.com .   

1 Norwegian Dawn, Norwegian Epic, Norwegian Escape, Norwegian Getaway, Norwegian Pearl, Norwegian Prima, Norwegian Sky, Norwegian Star, and Norwegian Viva.

2 For the comparison, Norwegian Cruise Line compared the total prices for Fly-Cruise-Packages on peak season sailings onboard Norwegian Escape (Italy, France and Spain) to 4-star hotels in Spain and Italy. The comparison accounted for total prices including roundtrip flights from the U.S. to Spain or Italy, transfers at the destination, staterooms (incl. balcony with sea view), all-inclusive board or Free at Sea upgrade as well as service charges/tips.

National Hurricane Center issues 1st advisory of 2024 season. How unusual is that in April?

The disturbance in the eastern atlantic has a very low chance for development.

The 2024 Atlantic hurricane season began Wednesday , April 24, when the National Hurricane Center issued its first tropical outlook of the season.

For the record, the season doesn't "officially" begin until June 1, and the first daily tropical outlook is scheduled to be released on May 15.

That doesn't mean storms and disturbances don't appear before or after the official season, and that's what happened Wednesday.

The good news is the disturbance in the eastern Atlantic has a very low chance for development.

Here's what you should know about what was out there and how unusual an April disturbance is.

National Hurricane Center reports 'disturbance' in eastern Atlantic

Here's what the National Hurricane Center said about the disturbance at 4:10 p.m. Wednesday, April 24.

An area of low pressure is located about 900 miles northwest of the Cabo Verde Islands. It's been producing a small but persistent area of showers and thunderstorms to the east of its center since Wednesday morning.

The low is forecast to move southwest at 10 to 15 mph into an area of stronger upper-level winds Wednesday night and Thursday, April 25.

Additional development is not expected. No additional special tropical weather outlooks are scheduled for this system unless conditions warrant.

• Formation chance through 48 hours: low, 10 percent.
• Formation chance through 7 days: low, 10 percent.

15 tropical cyclones have formed before start of hurricane season over past 20 years

Since 2003, there have been 15 tropical cyclones that have formed before June 1 , including two that developed in April.

While most pre-season storms developed in May, there have been two occasions over the last 20 years a tropical cyclone has formed in the Atlantic basin in January, including Hurricane Alex in 2016.

• Jan. 16-17, 2023: Unnamed subtropical storm.
• May 22-23, 2021: Tropical Storm Ana.
• May 16-19, 2020: Tropical Storm Arthur.
• May 27-28, 2020: Tropical Storm Bertha.
• May 20-21, 2019: Subtropical Storm Andrea.
• May 25-31, 2018: Tropical Storm Alberto.
• April 19-21, 2017: Tropical Storm Arlene.
• Jan. 12-15, 2016: Hurricane Alex
• May 27-June 4, 2016: Tropical Storm Bonnie
• May 8-11, 2015: Tropical Storm Ana.
• May 19-22, 2012: Tropical Storm Alberto.
• May 26-30, 2012: Tropical Storm Beryl.
• May 31-June 1, 2008: Tropical Storm Arthur.
• May 9-11, 2007: Subtropical Storm Andrea.
• April 20-24, 2003: Tropical Storm Ana.

Predictions call for 'explosive' 2024 hurricane season

So far, every prediction for the 2024 Atlantic hurricane season calls for a lot of storms.

AccuWeather is predicting this season has the potential to break the all-time record  of 30 named storms in one season.

• 20-25 named storms
• 8-12 hurricanes
• 4-7 major hurricanes
• 4-6 direct U.S. impacts

CSU's 2024 Atlantic hurricane season forecast  calls for:

• 23 named storms
• 11 hurricanes
• 5 major hurricanes

Dr. Ryan Truchelut, chief meteorologist at WeatherTiger, predicted the 2024 season has a  50-50 shot of landing in the ranges of:

• 20-24 tropical storms
• 9-12 hurricanes

Truchelut works with the USA TODAY Network-Florida to provide the latest storm information Florida residents need.

A major hurricane is one that's a Category 3, 4 or 5 storm. A Category 3 hurricane is one with maximum sustained winds of at least 111 mph.

National Hurricane Center changing 'cone of uncertainty' for 2024 hurricane season

To help residents in the event of an impending storm, the  National Hurricane Center  will be  implementing several changes for the 2024 season,  including a  change to the " cone of uncertainty .”

The  new cone from the National Hurricane Center  will add  tropical storm and hurricane watches and warnings for interior counties in the path  of the storm.

The current cone displays watches and warnings only for coastal counties.

The new graphic — which is expected to be implemented around Aug. 15 — will continue to have the same information but also illustrate potential impacts for areas away from the coast.

Names to be used during 2024 Atlantic hurricane season

Hurricane names are decided upon by the  World Meteorological Organization . There are six lists, with 21 names on each list.

The six lists are used in rotation. So  names used in 2024  won't be used again until 2030.

Don't worry about running out of names for tropical cyclones

If all 21 names on the 2024 list are used for Atlantic-basin storms, a  s upplemental list of names  will be used.

These names also are approved by the  World Meteorological Organization .

The practice of using Greek names stopped with the 2021 Atlantic hurricane season when the  supplemental list of names replaced the Greek alphabet  for tropical cyclones.

When is hurricane season?

The Atlantic hurricane season runs from June 1 through Nov. 30. The National Hurricane Center issues daily tropical outlooks beginning May 15, unless a disturbance worth monitoring appears earlier in the Atlantic basin. The Atlantic basin covers the northern Atlantic, the Caribbean Sea and the Gulf of Mexico.

A special tropical outlook is issued — as was the case Wednesday — if something develops ahead of May 15.

National Hurricane Center tracks first tropical disturbance weeks before season starts

Atlantic hurricane season runs june 1 to nov. 30, with the peak of storms from august to october..

Already? Weeks before the 2024 Atlantic hurricane season officially starts, the National Hurricane Center in Miami announced a "disturbance."

The hurricane center issued a special tropical weather outlook just after 4 p.m. EDT Wednesday, April 24. Hurricane season runs June 1 to Nov. 30 , though in the past, the season has started early. In spite of the weather release, the hurricane center noted, "There are no tropical cyclones in the Atlantic at this time."

For the North Atlantic, Caribbean Sea and the Gulf of Mexico: On Wednesday, the National Hurricane Center reported an area of low pressure located about 900 miles northwest of the Cabo Verde Islands that produced a small but persistent area of showers and thunderstorms to the east of its center. However, the low was forecast to move southwestward at 10 to 15 mph into an area of stronger upper-level winds tonight and tomorrow (Thursday, April 25), and additional development is not expected.

No additional special tropical weather outlooks from the hurricane center are scheduled for this system unless conditions warrant. Regularly scheduled tropical weather outlooks will resume May 15, 2024, while special tropical weather outlooks will be issued as necessary during the remainder of the off-season.

• Formation chance through 48 hours is low at 10 percent.
• Formation chance through 7 days is low at 10 percent.

City Politics | Norfolk cruise center getting multiple upgrades…

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City politics | norfolk cruise center getting multiple upgrades ahead of year-round traffic.

NORFOLK — City Council voted Tuesday to approve enhancements to the Half Moone Cruise and Celebration Center in anticipation of becoming a year-round cruise destination in 2025.

The changes are huge, said Stephen Kirkland, who runs the cruise terminal as the executive director of Nauticus.

“A cruise ship will be here every single week, embarking and debarking passengers, and we need to be prepared for that heightened activity,” Kirkland said.

Starting Feb. 15, Carnival Sunshine will begin its weekly cruises leaving from Norfolk. The 12-deck ship is 893 feet long and can carry over 3,000 passengers — leading to a turnover of more than 6,000 people when the ship is at full capacity, setting sail and returning in a single day.

Modifications to the terminal include expanding the walkway from Waterside Drive , adding a circular drop-off lane, a revised bus lane and canopies for passengers — changes that will enhance pedestrian and vehicle circulation downtown. The city earmarked $12 million for the project.

The most advantageous change, according to Kirkland, is a sloped walkway from the first to second floor that will allow guests exiting the ship to move quickly downstairs to go through customs, collect their luggage and make their way to the ground transportation loop.

“The quicker and more efficient we can be with that process, the better the whole day is,” Kirkland said. “That allows us to embark sooner which allows that ship to set sail on time.”

Currently, there’s one elevator, one escalator and a set of stairs connecting the first and second floor.

Construction on the enhancements is due to begin in June, but additional cruise traffic from ships diverted by the Francis Scott Key bridge collapse in Baltimore has added complications: the terminal was supposed to be closed for 14 months at the conclusion of the 2023 season.

Those ships originally bound for Baltimore will not delay the construction schedule, Kirkland said. Half Moone cruise terminal had a “window” during which it was able to support Royal Caribbean and Carnival with diverted ships, but those ships will not continue to arrive after construction begins in June.

With Norfolk set to become a year-round home port for the world’s largest cruise line, passengers are anticipated to travel from across the country to catch their ship. That brings economic impact in the form of more flights to Norfolk, hotel stays the night before and after the voyage, restaurants, transportation and more.

“That’s a big deal for us as a community. It’s a game changer,” Kirkland said.

Cianna Morales, 757-957-1304, [email protected]

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Mann Research Group

The 2024 atlantic hurricane season: university of pennsylvania forecast.

University of Pennsylvania EES scientists Dr. Michael E. Mann and Shannon Christiansen , and Penn State ESSC alumnus Dr. Michael Kozar have released their seasonal prediction for the 2024 North Atlantic hurricane season, which officially starts on 1 June and runs through 30 November.

The prediction is for 33.1 +/- 5.8 total named tropical cyclones, which corresponds to a range between 27 and 39 storms, with a best estimate of 33 named storms. This prediction was made using the statistical model of Kozar et al. (2012, see PDF here ). This statistical model builds upon the past work of Sabbatelli and Mann (2007, see PDF here ) by considering a larger number of climate predictors and including corrections for the historical undercount of events (see footnotes).

The assumptions behind this forecast are (a) the persistence of current North Atlantic Main Development Region (MDR) sea surface temperature (SST) anomalies (+1.9°C in April 2024 from NOAA’s Coral Reef Watch ) throughout the 2024 hurricane season, (b) development of a moderate La Nina (Niño3.4 anomaly of -0.5°C) conditions in the equatorial Pacific in late Boreal summer and fall 2024 ( ENSO forecasts here; we used mid-April 2023 ), and (c) climatological mean conditions for the North Atlantic Oscillation in Fall/Winter 2023-2024.

If neutral ENSO conditions (Niño3.4 anomaly of 0.0°C) take shape later in 2024, then the prediction will be lower: 30.5 +/- 5.5 storms (range of 25 – 36 storms, with a best guess of 31).

Using an alternative model that uses “relative” MDR SST (MDR SST with the average tropical mean SST subtracted) in place of MDR SST yields a lower prediction (19.9 +/- 4.5 total named storms). This alternative model also includes positive ENSO conditions.

Previous Forecasts:

References:

Kozar, M.E., Mann, M.E., Camargo, S.J., Kossin, J.P., Evans, J.L., 2012: Stratified statistical models of North Atlantic basin-wide and regional tropical cyclone counts , J. Geophys. Res., 117, D18103, doi:10.1029/2011JD017170.

Mann, M.E., Sabbatelli, T.A., Neu, U., 2007: Evidence for a Modest Undercount Bias in Early Historical Atlantic Tropical Cyclone Counts , Geophys. Res. Lett., 34, L22707, doi:10.1029/2007GL031781.

Sabbatelli, T.A., Mann, M.E., 2007: The Influence of Climate State Variables on Atlantic Tropical Cyclone Occurrence Rates , J. Geophys. Res., 112, D17114, doi: 10.1029/2007JD008385.

Vecchi, G.A., Knutson, T.R., 2008: On Estimates of Historical North Atlantic Tropical Cyclone Activity , J.Climate, 21, 3580-3600, doi:10.1175/2008JCLI2178.

Footnotes: The tropical cyclone series was corrected based on an estimated historical undercount taken from Vecchi and Knutson (2008).

Prediction made: April 11, 2024 This webpage last updated: April 23, 2024