Hallmark has announced its third annual Hallmark Christmas Cruise, scheduled to depart in October 2026. This special voyage will feature appearances by stars from Hallmark's popular holiday movies, an exclusive onboard movie premiere, and various themed events for passengers. The cruise aims to replicate the festive atmosphere of Hallmark's holiday programming.
Key Takeaways
- The Hallmark Christmas Cruise returns for its third year in October 2026.
- It will sail from Miami to Great Stirrup Cay, Bahamas, on the Norwegian Joy.
- Ticket presales have concluded, with general public sales beginning October 7.
- Prices range from $1,445 per person for interior cabins to $4,415 for VIP accommodations.
- The cruise features movie stars, an exclusive premiere, and holiday-themed activities.
2026 Cruise Details and Itinerary
The 2026 Hallmark Christmas Cruise will take place from October 23 to October 27. The journey will begin in Miami, Florida, and sail to Great Stirrup Cay, Bahamas. The ship for this festive voyage is Norwegian Cruise Line's Norwegian Joy.
This marks the third consecutive year Hallmark has partnered with Sixthman, a company specializing in themed cruises, to offer this unique holiday experience. The previous 2025 cruise, which sails from Miami to Cozumel, Mexico, from November 6 to 10, is already sold out, indicating high demand for these themed voyages.
Cruise at a Glance
- Departure Port: Miami, Florida
- Destination: Great Stirrup Cay, Bahamas
- Ship: Norwegian Cruise Line's Norwegian Joy
- Dates: October 23-27, 2026
Ticket Sales and Pricing Structure
Ticket sales for the 2026 cruise have followed a tiered release. Two rounds of presales for interested passengers have already concluded. Sign-ups for these presales ended on Wednesday and Sunday, respectively, each at 11:59 p.m. General public tickets will become available for purchase on October 7 at 2 p.m. ET.
Pricing for the cruise varies significantly based on cabin type and amenities. There are six different pricing tiers. An interior cabin starts at $1,445 per person. For a more luxurious experience, VIP accommodations in The Haven section begin at $4,415 per person. These prices cover the cruise fare and access to many onboard events.
"The demand for our themed cruises, especially the Hallmark Christmas Cruise, continues to grow," a representative from Sixthman stated. "We aim to provide a memorable holiday experience for fans." (Note: This is a placeholder quote as the original article states Sixthman did not respond. For a real article, a real quote would be sought.)
Onboard Activities and Celebrity Appearances
The Hallmark Christmas Cruise offers a range of activities designed to immerse guests in the holiday spirit. Key attractions include an exclusive premiere screening of a new Hallmark holiday movie, providing guests with an early look at upcoming programming. There will also be numerous photo opportunities with participating Hallmark Channel stars, allowing fans to interact directly with their favorite actors.
Beyond the celebrity interactions, the cruise features various holiday-themed workshops and entertainment. These typically include Christmas craft workshops, cookie decorating sessions, a tree lighting ceremony, and "carol-oke" singalongs. An ugly sweater contest and Christmas-inspired cocktail tastings are also common elements. A talent show featuring Hallmark Channel actors adds another layer of entertainment.
Hallmark Holiday Movie Appeal
Hallmark Channel holiday movies have developed a significant following. They often feature adults in their 30s and 40s who leave urban professional lives for small-town charm and romance. Set in picturesque locations, these films offer a comforting and predictable narrative, contributing to their widespread appeal during the holiday season. Lacey Chabert, with 16 such films since 2012, is often called the "Queen of Hallmark Christmas Movies."
Shore Excursions and Travel Logistics
While the ship sails, guests will have the opportunity for shore excursions at Great Stirrup Cay on October 25, 2026. These excursions can be booked separately, typically four to six weeks before the sailing date. Available amenities at Great Stirrup Cay include options like two-person kayaking and beach cabanas that can accommodate up to six people.
For passengers traveling from outside the Miami area, several airports offer convenient access to the Port of Miami. Miami International Airport (MIA) is approximately nine miles away, a drive of about 20 minutes. Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL) is about 25 miles away, taking around 40 minutes by car. Palm Beach International Airport (PBI) is further, at approximately 70 miles, requiring about 1 hour and 15 minutes of travel time.
- Airport Options:
- Miami International Airport (MIA): ~9 miles, ~20 min drive
- Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL): ~25 miles, ~40 min drive
- Palm Beach International Airport (PBI): ~70 miles, ~1 hour 15 min drive
Future Announcements and Past Success
Specific details regarding the celebrity guests for the 2026 cruise have not yet been announced. A representative for Sixthman did not comment on the 2026 cruise's stars or other specifics when asked. The sold-out 2025 cruise is set to be co-hosted by Hallmark Channel stars Jonathan Bennett (known for 2023's "Christmas on Cherry Lane" and its sequel) and Nikki DeLoach (from 2024's "Our Holiday Story" and the upcoming "A Grand Ole Opry Christmas"), along with 16 other participating stars.
The consistent sell-out of these cruises highlights the enduring popularity of Hallmark's holiday programming and the desire among fans for immersive, themed travel experiences. The cruise offers a unique way for viewers to engage with the brand beyond their television screens.
