If you're thinking about a last-minute holiday vacation in December, consider a cruise. Cruises can be one of the best vacation values available, especially during this holiday season. Some cruises we found are currently discounted by up to 70% and many offer exceptional deals.

Discover a world of amazing creatures in the Galapagos Islands, the earth's first World Heritage Site. Cruisers come face to face with friendly sea lions, giant tortoises, penguins, marine iguanas, colorful birds, and a variety of other exotic species. This is one trip you won't want to miss.

Costa Maya is one of the Western Caribbean's hottest ports of call. This lovely region is home to beautiful beaches, exciting adventure tours and spectacular Mayan ruins. The town of Mahahual is a favorite among cruisers. Believe me – this is one cruise port you won’t want to miss.

A newly announced Norwegian Cruise Line cruise now provides a way to enjoy a relaxing post-holiday vacation while giving back to others. It's a great way to have a fun-filled vacation and help those in need by 'cruising with a cause.'

If you're looking for a convenient holiday vacation that offers a good value, consider a cruise. Holiday cruises from close-to-home ports will take you to those same sunny beaches, sometimes for less than the cost of a round-trip air ticket. So book early and enjoy a festive holiday at sea!

Figuring out what to pack for your cruise is always one of the toughest parts of the trip. Here's a complete list of what to bring along on your next Caribbean cruise. Print out this packing list and feel free to modify it as necessary for your own personal use.