Summer is usually the ideal time to take a vacation since the weather is warm and the kids are out of school. The lure of a cruise can be hard to pass up especially since Caribbean cruises can be deeply discounted in summer. The Caribbean has a hurricane season from about early June to late November so before you purchase your dream holiday it is important to keep some things in mind.

Cruise ships are very safe but they aren't indestructible. There have been a few tragedies involving cruise ships in the last decade. This isn't meant to scare you but make you aware that Mother Nature dictates your holiday especially in the hurricane season. Cruise ships are equipped with technology that can forecast weather conditions so don't be unduly concerned.

Cruise lines will always but the safety of its passengers first and will never intentionally go through a storm. Cruise lines can skip or change a port of call with little or no compensation. If the weather is severe they may cancel a cruise all together in which case they will give you a voucher for another cruise at a future date. While understandable, a canceled trip can mean a missed vacation especially if your family's vacation time is limited and not flexible.

Check with the cruise line company or your travel agent for information on changes due to weather. You can also purchase travel insurance but make sure you read the fine print and understand what is covered; some cover none or very little in the case of acts of God.

A storm may not be enough to cancel a cruise and you can still have an enjoyable time. There are activities on the ship that are indoors including exercise classes and shows. Make sure you bring some books and consider bringing a portable DVD player and movies to keep the family occupied.

Make sure you bring sea sick pills. Even if the weather is nice, the waters are sure to be rough. If you get sea sick, head to the center of the ship where swaying is at a minimum.

So your holiday plans are not totally spoiled, have a backup plan in case the cruise is cancelled. Plan your embarkation port as a fun city such as Orlando. If your cruise is cancelled then you can still head to Orlando and your family can enjoy Disneyworld. Also consider some enjoyable road trip options if the airport at your port city is closed.

Lastly, if you travel in the hurricane season plan for inclement weather and don't get upset if it rains the entire time. Consider nice weather a bonus in the off season.