The best time to cruise to Indonesia

Indonesia is a destination unlike any other. On a cruise through this remarkable archipelago, you’ll encounter volcanic landscapes, lush rainforests, coral reefs teeming with life and temples steeped in history. To help you experience the beauty and diversity of these islands in the best possible conditions, we've created a month-by-month guide on the best time to visit, so you can plan your Indonesian cruise with confidence. 

The best time to cruise to Indonesia is during the dry season, which runs from May to September. Days are typically warm and sunny with calmer seas, making it ideal for island-hopping, snorkelling and diving. July and August are the busiest months, especially around Bali and Komodo, so expect larger crowds and higher prices. 

For a quieter experience, April, early May, September, and early October are excellent shoulder-season choices, offering pleasant weather without the peak-season rush. Between November and March, the rains arrive, bringing higher humidity and the chance of storms, though this period can also mean greener landscapes, fewer visitors and lower fares. 

January sits in the middle of Indonesia’s wet season. Heavy showers are common, particularly across Bali, Java and Sumatra, and the humidity can feel high. It’s still possible to cruise at this time of year, though rougher seas may occasionally disrupt some journeys. 

Rainfall continues through February, often arriving in short but heavy bursts rather than lingering all day. The countryside is wonderfully green, and there are fewer visitors, which can make this a rewarding time to travel if you don’t mind a little unpredictability. 

March is a transitional month as the wet season begins to ease. Rain is still likely, but dry spells become longer and more frequent. With fewer crowds and often lower prices, it can be a good time to explore if you’re flexible with your plans. 

By April, much of the country is moving towards the dry season. The weather is generally sunnier and less humid, making conditions more comfortable for sightseeing and excursions. As a shoulder season month, it often feels quieter and better value than the peak months to come. 

May marks the start of the dry season across most of Indonesia. Days are typically warm, skies clearer and seas calmer, providing excellent opportunities for diving, snorkelling and island-hopping. It’s one of the best times of year to cruise. 

June is a reliable month for good weather, with long, dry days and comfortable conditions. It’s an ideal time to explore cultural sites, trek volcanoes or simply enjoy the beaches, though visitor numbers do begin to rise as summer progresses. 

July is peak dry season, bringing hot, sunny days and excellent visibility in the water. It’s also one of the busiest times of year, particularly around Bali and Komodo, so expect higher prices and more crowds. 

Similar to July, August delivers consistently dry and sunny weather. It’s a popular month for international visitors due to the European summer holidays, so cruise sailings and excursions often book up quickly. 

September often combines excellent weather with fewer crowds. The days remain warm and dry, but the atmosphere is a little more relaxed after the height of summer. It’s an excellent choice for those wanting to balance good conditions with a quieter experience. 

October is another shoulder month, when the rains begin to return, especially later in the month. Early October can still feel pleasantly dry and warm, while afternoon showers become more common towards the end. 

By November, the wet season is setting in once more. Rainfall increases and humidity rises, particularly in western Indonesia. While conditions may affect some excursions, the scenery is beautifully green, and visitor numbers are lower.

December is one of the wettest months of the year, with regular downpours and high humidity. Even so, it can be a lively time to visit thanks to Christmas and New Year sailings, and between showers you’ll still enjoy bright spells and tropical scenery.