Shoulder cruising, also known as off-season cruising, refers to booking your cruise just before or after the peak travel season. For American Cruise Lines, this means sailing during early spring or late fall, when ports and waterways are quieter but just as beautiful. Shoulder season cruises offer guests a refreshing way to experience destinations like the Mississippi River or the Southeast without the summer crowds. You can explore all of our seasonal options here.
When is Shoulder Season for Cruises?
The exact timing of shoulder season varies by region. In the U.S., it typically includes March through early May and late October through December. These months fall outside the peak summer and holiday seasons, when families travel more frequently. As a result, shoulder season dates tend to be less popular. Although, savvy travelers know this is when you can enjoy some of the best cruise experiences.
What are the Benefits of Shoulder Cruising?
Less Expensive
Cruising during shoulder season often comes with more competitive pricing, providing excellent value. Many guests find that booking a spring or fall cruise allows them to stretch their travel budget further. This is the perfect time to upgrade to a balcony cabin, add pre-cruise hotel nights, or even splurge on a once-in-a-lifetime excursion. For tips on planning smartly for value, visit Alaska on a Budget.
Fewer Crowds
Shoulder season brings fewer tourists not only to your ship but also to the ports you’ll visit. On the Mississippi River, for example, this means smaller groups at historic estates, museums, and Civil War battlefields. Along the Southeast Coast, it offers a quieter experience in Charleston’s historic district or on Florida’s white coastal beaches.
More Mild Weather
In many regions, shoulder season weather is more comfortable for sightseeing. You might enjoy crisp temperatures along the Upper Mississippi or balmy early-spring days on a Southeast itinerary; even the cool fall breezes of New England are something to look forward to. Without the intense heat of midsummer or the chill of winter, exploring on foot is more pleasant.
Different Wildlife Experiences
Certain wildlife becomes more active during shoulder season. On the Lower Mississippi, birds such as herons and egrets are more visible in fall. In the Southeast’s protected marshes and waterways, early spring brings an array of birdwatching opportunities and blooming wildflowers. Learn more about seasonal wildlife on our Mississippi River Wildlife and Nature Excursions.
Excursion Availability and Fewer Tourists
With fewer travelers on board and ashore, you'll often find more flexibility when booking excursions. Whether you’re reserving a private carriage ride in New Orleans or a guided nature walk along the Intracoastal Waterway, availability tends to be higher during shoulder season. Take a peek behind the curtain and see how we thoughtfully curate our excursions, in a tell-all blog post here.
Better Cabin Availability
Popular cabin categories—balcony staterooms, suites, or solo traveler rooms—often fill quickly during peak months. But during shoulder season, you’re more likely to find your ideal stateroom type available, making it easier to tailor your cruise experience to your preferences. Especially those single cabins. With limited availability on each ship, the off-season is the best time to travel solo.
More Festive Cruises
Shoulder season also coincides with themed cruises and seasonal celebrations. Fall brings vibrant foliage cruises along the Mississippi and in New England. December sailings feature festive decor, special menus, and holiday activities on board. These cruises offer a unique and memorable way to mark the season.
Plan Your Shoulder Season Cruise Today
Shoulder cruising offers many advantages. Cost savings, unique seasonal experiences, and beating the crowds so you have more time to explore the exclusive ports our small ships bring you to. Start exploring off-season dates and destinations now.
