Cruise — travel photo

🚢 Cruise · Caribbean high season (Dec–Apr)

What to wear on a cruise in December

By PackTheLook · Updated 28 October 2026

Highs29°C (84°F)
Lows23°C (73°F)
Rainy days~13
Daylight11 h
CrowdsPeak season

December averages for San Juan, Puerto Rico (Caribbean). Source

December is busy with Christmas and New Year sailings — festive formal nights and a New Year's Eve party at sea. Pack sparkle for the celebrations plus pool and port outfits.

☀️ By day

Caribbean: swimwear. River cruises: a full winter kit.

🌙 Evening

Festive formal wear for Christmas and New Year galas.

What's on in December

Typical dates. Many festivals follow lunar calendars, so check this year's dates before you book.

Antarctica season

November to March

Waterproof trousers, thermal layers and glove liners. Expedition parkas are usually provided.

December packing essentials

Your December outfit list

Also pack

Showing more covered picks for travellers from India.

Dress code

  • Formal/elegant nights (usually 1–2 per week): cocktail dress or smart outfit for women, suit or dress shirt and trousers for men.
  • Main dining rooms ask for no swimwear, tank tops for men or flip-flops at dinner.
  • Cover up when walking through the ship from the pool.

Full dress code, activities and common mistakes →

Good weather elsewhere in December

All destinations →