Holiday Cruises: Celebrating Christmas and New Year's Eve at Sea

Few times of year feel as special as Christmas and New Year's Eve. And there's a way to experience these dates that combines the magic of the holidays with the experience of visiting new places: spending the turn of the year aboard a cruise ship.

During this season, ships take on an atmosphere all their own — themed decorations, special holiday dinners, live music and programming for all ages. Beyond the celebrations, you wake up in a different destination almost every day, without giving up the ship's full structure: pools, restaurants, bars, a spa and live shows.

Holiday Cruise Options with Carioca Travels

MSC Musica — Christmas

7 nights aboard in a deluxe interior double cabin, with full board plus port, service and maritime taxes included. Departing from Santos and disembarking in Itajaí, visiting Ilhabela, Rio de Janeiro, Búzios and Paranaguá. Dates: December 20-27, 2026. Starting at R$4,814 per person (or 12x R$401).

Costa Diadema — Christmas

7 nights aboard in a guaranteed interior double My Cruise cabin, with full board plus port, service and maritime taxes included. Round trip from Santos, visiting Buenos Aires, Montevideo and Itajaí. Dates: December 20-27, 2026. Starting at R$6,483 per person (or 12x R$540).

MSC Virtuosa — New Year's Eve

7 nights aboard in an interior Bella double cabin, with full board plus port, service and maritime taxes included. Round trip from Santos, visiting Búzios, Salvador, Copacabana Beach and Ilhabela. Dates: December 26, 2026 - January 2, 2027. Starting at R$9,432 per person (or 12x R$786).

How to Choose the Right Cruise for You

Beyond the itinerary, it's worth considering trip length, cabin type (interior, exterior, with balcony), and whether you'd rather spend Christmas aboard, New Year's Eve, or both. Since these cruises tend to sell out their best cabins early, it's best to start planning a few months ahead.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it worth spending New Year's Eve on a cruise?

For travelers who like the idea of celebrating the turn of the year at sea, with an onboard party and none of the logistics of watching fireworks on land, yes. It's a different way to experience the date, combining celebration and travel.

Is the Christmas dinner included in the package?

Yes, the packages listed include full board, which covers the special holiday meals served on board.

How far in advance should I book?

Holiday cruises tend to see high demand, so the earlier you book, the more cabin and price category options remain available.

Plan Your Holiday Cruise with Carioca Travels

We can help you choose the right itinerary, cabin and dates to celebrate Christmas or New Year's Eve at sea. Get in touch with Carioca Travels and lock in your holiday trip.