November sits neatly between the quieter autumn season and the busy Christmas/New Year period. This can make it a particularly appealing month for cruising, with fewer crowds in many destinations and, outside of the peak festive period, some attractive fares.

November is also a month of seasonal change. The Mediterranean cruise season is winding down, while ships are moving towards warmer waters. The Caribbean is beginning its popular winter season, the Canary Islands offer reliable autumn sunshine, and further afield, destinations such as South East Asia, Australia and New Zealand are heading into their summer months.

For travellers from the UK and Ireland, there’s also the simple appeal of escaping the autumn gloom. What could be better than swapping dark evenings and chilly temperatures for warm beaches, blue skies and a few days of complete relaxation?

If you’re looking for sunshine, beaches, and warm seas, the Caribbean is one of the best places to cruise in November.

The islands are moving towards their drier winter season, with temperatures remaining pleasantly warm and humidity generally becoming more comfortable. You can explore colourful towns, relax on beautiful beaches and make the most of the warm Caribbean Sea, all while unpacking just once!

There’s a huge choice of itineraries too. Eastern Caribbean cruises might take in St Thomas, St Maarten and the British Virgin Islands, while Western Caribbean routes combine Mexico, Jamaica and Grand Cayman. Alternatively, head further south to islands such as Barbados, Aruba and Curacao.

November is still within the official Atlantic hurricane season, so itineraries can be subject to change depending on weather conditions, but cruise lines are very experienced at adapting routes where necessary.

For some winter sun without travelling halfway around the world, a Canary Islands cruise in November is hard to beat!

Tenerife, Lanzarote, Gran Canaria and Fuerteventura all enjoy mild temperatures and plenty of sunshine in November, making them a welcome break from the cooler weather back home.

There’s much more to the Canaries than the beach too; explore Tenerife’s volcanic landscapes, wander through the old streets of Las Palmas or discover Lanzarote’s striking scenery. And if you’d rather avoid flying altogether, there are even cruises from the UK that sail directly to the Canary Islands.

For an easy November cruise getaway, the Canary Islands offers a great combination of sunshine, scenery and relaxation.

November is an excellent time to explore the Middle East by cruise, with temperatures far more comfortable for sightseeing than during the scorching summer months.

Cruises around the Arabian Gulf can combine some of the region’s most fascinating destinations, including Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Doha and Muscat. You can spend one day admiring futuristic skyscrapers and shopping malls, then the next exploring traditional souks, ancient forts or spectacular desert landscapes.

Muscat is particularly rewarding, with its rugged mountains, beautiful coastline and atmospheric old town, while Dubai provides a striking contrast with its modern architecture and lively atmosphere.

A Middle East cruise in November can also be a great option if you want to combine a cruise with some time on land before or after.

November is a great time to cruise in South East Asia, as many parts of the region move onto their drier and more comfortable season.

Cruises can take you between some of Asia’s most exciting cities and coastal destinations, with itineraries often combining Vietnam, Thailand, Singapore and Malaysia.

You could spend a few days exploring Bangkok before sailing south towards tropical islands, discover the lantern-lit streets and historic architecture of Hoi An, or combine a cruise with some time in Singapore.

The appeal of South East Asia is the variety! One day you could be visiting an ancient temple, the next enjoying fresh seafood on a tropical beach, followed by an evening of exploring one of Asia’s great cities.

November is spring in Australia and New Zealand, making it a wonderful time to explore the region by cruise.

In Australia, Sydney is a particularly spectacular starting point, with its famous harbour, beaches and lively neighbourhoods. Cruises can then take you along the Australian coast towards destinations such as Brisbane, Cairns and the Great Barrier Reef.

New Zealand offers something completely different. Expect dramatic coastlines, snow-capped mountains, rolling countryside and spectacular scenery as you sail between destinations such as Auckland, Wellington and the South Island.

For anyone wanting to make the most of a long haul trip, a cruise can also work beautifully as part of a wider Australia and New Zealand holiday, allowing you to combine time exploring on land with a more relaxed few days at sea.