Is it cold on cruise ships? The answer is it depends.
Cruise ships usually maintain a temperature around 75°F (24°C), but it can feel cooler in some areas.
Public spaces like atriums, dining rooms, and theaters are often kept cooler. With cabins, though, they have adjustable air conditioning that can get very cold, and balconies can feel cooler due to the sea breeze.
When cruising to cold weather destinations, packing warm layers is crucial. The temperature difference between the warm outside and the chilled interior can make it feel colder than it actually is.
So, while cruise ships aim to provide a comfortable temperature, it’s best to pack layers and bring a light sweater or wrap to stay cozy.
With that said, let’s explore more about staying comfortable on a cruise ship.
Table of Contents
General Temperature on a Cruise Ship
Cruise ships usually keep the temperature around 64 to 68°F (18 to 20°C).
Most areas on the ship feel this way.
But some places can feel colder than others.
Public Spaces
Places like atriums, dining rooms, and theaters are often cooler.
This is especially true when the ship is in warm places.
You might feel chilly in these areas.
It’s a good idea to bring a light sweater or shawl.
Imagine watching a show in the ship’s theater.
The air conditioning is on high to keep everyone cool.
Without a sweater, you might feel cold instead of comfortable.
If you are worried about being cold on your cruise, consider a Mediterranean cruise.
Balconies
If you have a balcony cabin, it might feel cooler because of the sea breeze.
This is true even in warm places.
Leaving the balcony door open can make the cabin chilly.
Closing the door helps keep the cabin warm.
Think about a romantic evening on the balcony, looking at the stars.
The sea breeze feels nice, but after a while, you might need to go inside to warm up.
Cold Weather Destinations
For cruises to cold places like Alaska or the Baltic Sea, you need to pack warm clothes.
Same goes for river cruises such as Christmas Market cruises.
Bring thermal underwear, sweaters, fleece jackets, waterproof coats, gloves, hats, and scarves.
It can be very cold outside, and coming back inside can feel even colder.
For example, an Alaskan cruise in May can be quite chilly.
Even though the ship keeps the inside warm, stepping out to see the glaciers requires a jacket.
Temperature Contrast
One interesting thing about cruise ship temperatures is the difference between the warm outside and the cool inside.
This contrast can make it feel colder inside than it really is.
Especially if you’ve been in the sun, going into an air-conditioned space can feel like a big change.
When you go inside for lunch, the dining room might feel very cool compared to the outside.
Packing Tips for Staying Comfortable
Because of the different temperatures on a cruise ship, packing layers is the best plan.
A light sweater or wrap is useful for cooler areas.
Warm clothes are a must for cold-weather destinations.
Portable fans can help with cabin temperatures.
Don’t forget a shawl or pashmina for fancy dinners and evening shows.
Why Is It Cold on a Cruise Ship?
Keeping a cruise ship comfortable is not easy.
Cruise ships have to keep thousands of passengers happy.
Public areas need to be cool enough for people in swimsuits and warm enough for people in formal wear.
Air conditioning systems are designed to handle these differences.
The ship’s movement and weather outside also matter.
In warm places, the inside needs to be cooler to give people a break from the heat.
In cold places, the ship needs to stay warm but still get fresh air.
Book Your Cruise with Chima Travel
Ready to enjoy a perfect cruise? Book your trip with Chima Travel.
We can help you prepare for all kinds of temperatures.
Whether you’re going to a warm place or a cold one, we’ve got you covered.
Contact us today to start planning your dream cruise!
