Don, last Nov., I was on the grand crossing. The "crossing portion" was verry warm on the high seas. (Funchal was beautiful & cool.) The "experienced" Crossers wore their swimsuits, shorts, etc., on the crossing portion, & enjoyed lounging by the pool in the WARM, bright sunshine while the rest of us had on our cashmere sweaters. :rolleyes: I was miserable. (I will never go without shorts & swimsuit...anywhere!) The captain takes the warm WARM southern route. Go prepared & soak up the sunshine on the high seas.