Cruise December: festive markets, winter sun, Northern Lights & itineraries - Voyage Privé
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Cruise December


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December transforms the cruise calendar into an extraordinary tapestry of choice, offering something for every traveller seeking escape, adventure or festive magic. Picture yourself gliding through twinkling Christmas markets along the Rhine, where mulled wine and artisan stalls illuminate medieval riverbanks; or basking in guaranteed sunshine across the Canary Islands and Caribbean, where turquoise waters and volcanic landscapes promise warmth when northern Europe shivers. For the intrepid, Norway's Arctic coast beckons with the ethereal dance of the Northern Lights above snow-draped fjords, while cultural voyages along the Nile and through Andalusia unlock ancient temples and Moorish splendour. December sailings blend exclusive deals, seasonal onboard celebrations and unbeatable variety—from short festive breaks to week-long island-hopping adventures and longer tropical escapes. Register with Voyage Privé to discover handpicked cruise offers and exceptional December sailings tailored to your aspirations.

The most beautiful cruises for December

7-night cruise: Christmas in Italy - Naples

7-night cruise: Christmas in Italy - Naples

This Mediterranean cultural escape embarks from Naples, weaving through the jewels of southern Italy across seven unforgettable nights. Your itinerary includes the volcanic drama of the Aeolian Islands, the Sicilian gateway of Messina with its proximity to Mount Etna, the historic charm of Salerno, and the legendary isle of Capri. Full board ensures every meal is a culinary celebration, while included shore excursions bring Pompeii's frozen-in-time streets and Etna's smouldering craters within reach. December departures capture Italy's festive atmosphere, fewer crowds and milder winter temperatures, perfect for exploring UNESCO sites without the summer crush.

What we love: The blend of archaeological wonder, volcanic landscapes and Italian festive warmth aboard a comfortable ship.

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3-night cruise: Traditions & magic of Christmas markets - Strasbourg

3-night cruise: Traditions & magic of Christmas markets - Strasbourg

Step into a winter wonderland aboard this short Rhine river cruise, purpose-built for festive magic. Over three nights, you'll visit the legendary Christmas markets of Strasbourg, Colmar and Basel, each one aglow with twinkling lights, artisan stalls and the scent of mulled wine and gingerbread. Guided excursions ensure you experience the heart of each market, from carol concerts to local tastings, while your intimate river ship provides cosy cabins and seasonal menus. December departures capture the peak of festive atmosphere, making this the ultimate short-break escape for those craving Christmas charm without the commitment of a long voyage.

What we love: The perfect festive immersion—markets, tastings and carol-filled evenings—all within a manageable three-night itinerary.

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Canary Islands, Madeira & Agadir Cruise

Canary Islands, Madeira & Agadir Cruise

Escape to guaranteed winter sun aboard this seven-night island-hopping adventure, departing from Gran Canaria or Tenerife. Your route embraces the volcanic beauty of Lanzarote and Fuerteventura, the lush botanical gardens of Funchal in Madeira, and the exotic souks of Agadir on Morocco's Atlantic coast. All-inclusive options mean unlimited dining, drinks and onboard entertainment, while suggested excursions range from Teide National Park's lunar landscapes to levada walks and dolphin-watching tours. December's mild climate—typically 18–22°C—delivers beach time, water sports and outdoor exploration when northern Europe shivers, making this the ideal antidote to winter gloom.

What we love: The seamless blend of volcanic drama, Atlantic charm and North African spice, all under reliable December sunshine.

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Winter in Tromsø with Northern Lights Cruise 4*

Winter in Tromsø with Northern Lights Cruise 4*

Experience the Arctic at its most magical with this Tromsø package, combining hotel accommodation with a dedicated Northern Lights catamaran cruise. December's long polar nights maximise your chances of witnessing the aurora borealis as it dances across the Arctic sky, while optional excursions—husky sledding, whale watching, reindeer visits—immerse you in polar adventure. Your cruise sails into fjords and quiet bays, away from light pollution, with expert guides and warm cabins ensuring comfort. Winter clothing recommendations and flexible itineraries account for the Arctic's unpredictable weather, making this a bucket-list experience for those seeking the ultimate December adventure.

What we love: The dedicated aurora-hunting cruise paired with authentic Arctic activities in one of Norway's most enchanting winter destinations.

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Top December cruise destinations (by mood & climate)

December's cruise calendar splits into distinct climate zones and experiences, each offering a unique answer to the question of how you wish to spend the year's final month—whether that's cultural immersion under mild Mediterranean skies, guaranteed tropical warmth, or Arctic adventure beneath the Northern Lights.

Mediterranean & Southern Europe: Italy, Sicily, Andalusia — cultural and milder winter escapes

The Mediterranean in December trades summer's heat and crowds for milder temperatures—typically 10–16°C—and a cultural richness that comes into sharper focus when the tourist tide recedes. Naples serves as the gateway to Pompeii's haunting ruins and the volcanic drama of Mount Etna via a stop in Messina, while the Aeolian Islands offer thermal springs and quiet fishing villages. Sicily's winter light illuminates baroque architecture and ancient Greek theatres, and shore excursions delve into UNESCO World Heritage sites without the summer queues. Further west, Andalusia's Guadalquivir River carries you into the heart of Moorish Spain—Seville's Alcázar, Córdoba's Mezquita, Cadiz's Atlantic fortifications—all accessible on comfortable river ships. The 7-night Italy cruise departing Naples includes Aeolian Islands, Messina, Salerno and Capri with full board and excursions to Pompeii and Mount Etna, capturing the essence of a Mediterranean winter escape. Onboard, festive atmosphere mingles with regional cuisine, and the ship becomes a warm cocoon between cultural discoveries.

Canary Islands, Madeira & Morocco — guaranteed winter sun and island hopping

When northern Europe shivers, the Canary Islands, Madeira and Morocco's Atlantic coast deliver reliable sunshine—18–22°C—and a kaleidoscope of volcanic landscapes, lush gardens and exotic markets. Typical seven-night itineraries embark from Gran Canaria or Tenerife, then island-hop to Lanzarote's lunar vineyards, Fuerteventura's endless dunes, Funchal's botanical splendour in Madeira, and Agadir's souks and seafront in Morocco. Shore activities range from hiking Teide National Park's volcanic peaks to levada walks through Madeira's laurel forests, dolphin-watching excursions and beach time on golden sands. The 7-night Canary-Madeira-Agadir cruise departing from Gran Canaria or Tenerife offers all-inclusive options and island excursion suggestions, making it effortless to explore diverse cultures and landscapes under December's gentle sun. Water sports, wine tours and relaxed island rhythms define these sailings, perfect for families and couples seeking warmth and variety.

Caribbean & Bahamas departures (Miami) — tropical escapes for winter sun and New Year celebrations (longer itineraries)

For those craving guaranteed tropical warmth—25–30°C—and extended voyages, the Caribbean beckons from Miami or Fort Lauderdale with itineraries spanning 10 to 21 nights. These longer sailings visit the turquoise shallows of the Bahamas, Jamaica's Dunn's River Falls, Cozumel's coral reefs, and Grand Cayman's stingray encounters, weaving through Eastern or Western Caribbean routes. December cruises capture the festive season at sea, with onboard gala nights, New Year's Eve celebrations, and themed dinners adding sparkle to sun-soaked days. Shore excursions include snorkelling in crystalline waters, beach clubs, rainforest zip-lining and cultural tours of colonial towns. The Miami hotel + 10–21 night Caribbean cruise package offers a choice of MSC itineraries, ideal for winter-sun seekers and New Year sailings, combining a comfortable Miami base with the ultimate tropical escape. Families, honeymooners and retirees alike find these voyages the perfect antidote to winter's chill.

December's diverse cruise calendar encompasses festive river sailings, winter-sun ocean voyages and immersive cultural itineraries, each designed to match different travel rhythms, climates and aspirations.

Festive river cruises: Christmas markets on the Rhine (Strasbourg, Colmar, Basel) — short 3–4 night options

Rhine Christmas market cruises distil the magic of European festive traditions into short, accessible breaks, typically three to four nights aboard intimate river ships. Embarkation in Strasbourg or Basel launches you into a world of twinkling lights, artisan stalls and the scent of mulled wine and gingerbread, with stops in Colmar's half-timbered squares, Breisach's Alsatian markets and Kehl's German traditions. Guided excursions ensure you experience the heart of each market, from carol concerts to tastings of vin chaud and local delicacies, while onboard, seasonal menus, tree-lighting ceremonies and festive entertainment create a cosy cocoon. The short Rhine river cruise focused on Christmas markets includes Strasbourg, Colmar, Basel, guided visits and mulled-wine tastings, perfect for those seeking concentrated festive immersion. For UK travellers, the 2-night festive cruise Tilbury?Antwerp timed for Christmas market visits offers full board and coach transfers from London, making it the most convenient festive escape.

Winter-sun ocean cruises: Canary Islands & Madeira circuits — 7-night sample routes

Seven-night Canary and Madeira circuits strike the perfect balance between island diversity and manageable duration, making them family-friendly and ideal for first-time cruisers seeking winter sun. A typical route embarks from Gran Canaria, then visits Lanzarote's volcanic vineyards and César Manrique art installations, Fuerteventura's windswept beaches, Funchal's botanical gardens and cable-car panoramas in Madeira, and Agadir's Moroccan souks before returning to Gran Canaria. Shore excursions range from wine tours and dolphin-watching to hiking volcanic peaks and exploring historic towns, while onboard, pools, sun decks and optional spa treatments capitalise on December's 18–22°C warmth. The 7-night Canary-Madeira-Agadir cruise departing from Gran Canaria or Tenerife, with all-inclusive options, epitomises this itinerary style, delivering beach time, cultural discovery and Atlantic charm under reliable sunshine.

Cultural river & coastal cruises: Guadalquivir (Seville–Córdoba–Cadiz) and Nile River immersive itineraries (Luxor ? Aswan)

For travellers seeking deep cultural immersion, December's milder weather and thinner crowds make river and coastal sailings in Andalusia and Egypt particularly rewarding. The Guadalquivir River carries you through Moorish Spain on seven-night itineraries linking Seville's Alcázar and Giralda, Córdoba's Mezquita, and Cadiz's Atlantic fortifications, with optional excursions to Granada's Alhambra, flamenco shows and tapas tastings. The 7-night Guadalquivir cruise around Andalusia includes Seville, Córdoba, Cadiz, Granada option, with cultural visits and optional flamenco/tapas excursions. Meanwhile, the Nile River from Luxor to Aswan unveils ancient Egypt's greatest treasures—Karnak Temple, Valley of the Kings, Edfu, Kom Ombo, Philae—under ideal December conditions (20–25°C, dry and sunny). The Hurghada resort package with optional 7-night Nile River cruise add-on (Luxor?Aswan) combines Red Sea relaxation with archaeological wonders, offering the best of beach and culture.

Winter adventure & special-experience cruises

December transforms the northern latitudes into a theatre of Arctic wonder, where expedition sailings, Northern Lights voyages and polar activities offer bucket-list experiences far removed from traditional sun-and-sand cruising.

Arctic & Northern Lights voyages (Norway, Hurtigruten, Tromsø) — when to go and what to expect

December marks peak aurora season in Arctic Norway, when long polar nights (up to 20 hours of darkness above the Arctic Circle) maximise your chances of witnessing the Northern Lights' ethereal dance across star-studded skies. The legendary Hurtigruten coastal route from Bergen to Kirkenes spans 9 to 12 days, stopping in the dramatic Lofoten Islands, Tromsø (the Arctic capital), and North Cape, Europe's northernmost point. Onboard, expert naturalists deliver aurora lectures, deck viewing areas are equipped with warm blankets, and cabins provide cosy retreats between sightings (though aurora appearances are never guaranteed, being weather-dependent). Shore excursions include husky sledding, snowmobile safaris, reindeer visits and whale-watching tours (orcas and humpbacks migrate through Norwegian fjords in December). The 9-day polar tour including Hurtigruten coastal cruise from Bergen to Kirkenes with Arctic stops in Lofoten and Tromsø captures the full Hurtigruten experience. For a shorter immersion, the short stay in Tromsø with included Northern Lights catamaran cruise, hotel and Arctic excursions, delivers concentrated aurora hunting and winter adventure.

Expedition-style & small-ship cruises (Star Clipper, boutique sailings) — wildlife and remote-archipelago itineraries

Expedition and small-ship cruises offer intimacy, access and immersion that large ocean liners cannot match, with passenger counts ranging from 50 to 200 and itineraries designed around wildlife, remote islands and sailing romance. Star Clipper's tall-ship sailings across the Caribbean—visiting St Maarten, Anguilla, Jost Van Dyke and St Barts—combine the romance of canvas and rigging with modern comfort, water-sports platforms (snorkelling, kayaking, paddleboarding) and personalised service. December's tropical warmth and calm seas make these sailings particularly appealing for those seeking boutique luxury and hands-on sailing experiences. The small-ship sailing itineraries across the Caribbean (St Maarten, Anguilla, Jost Van Dyke, St Barts) epitomise this style, ideal for boutique sailing experiences in December. Expedition ships in other regions (though less common in December for Antarctica, which is summer in the Southern Hemisphere) focus on wildlife encounters—penguins, seals, whales—and zodiac landings, with expert naturalist guides enhancing every excursion.

Polar-adjacent activities and optional excursions (husky, snowmobile, whale watching, Northern Lights cruises)

December's Arctic sailings come alive through optional excursions and polar activities that transform your voyage into an active adventure, not merely a passive cruise. Typical offerings include husky sledding through snow-covered forests near Tromsø or Kirkenes, where you'll command your own team of eager dogs across frozen landscapes; snowmobile safaris into the wilderness, accessing viewpoints and frozen lakes; reindeer farm visits with Sami guides sharing indigenous culture and stories; ice fishing on frozen fjords; and dedicated whale-watching tours (orcas and humpbacks migrate through Norwegian waters in December, following herring shoals). Northern Lights chases by catamaran, bus or snowmobile take you away from light pollution into quiet bays and mountain plateaus, with warm thermal clothing provided or recommended (layers, waterproofs, insulated boots, gloves, hats). The Tromsø package with Northern Lights catamaran cruise, hotel and Arctic excursions (husky, whale watching), plus winter clothing recommendations, exemplifies the active Arctic cruise experience, where every day offers a new polar adventure.

Activities, festive experiences & shore excursions

December cruises blend onboard seasonal celebrations, island adventures and cultural shore visits into a rich tapestry of experiences, ensuring every day offers something memorable, whether that's a festive gala, a volcanic hike or an ancient temple tour.

Christmas markets, onboard gala nights and seasonal events — what's typical on December sailings

Festive atmosphere permeates December cruises, with onboard experiences designed to capture the magic of the season. Christmas gala dinners feature roast turkey, mince pies, mulled wine and champagne toasts, accompanied by live music, carol concerts and seasonal shows. Tree-lighting ceremonies, Santa visits for families, craft workshops (wreath-making, cookie decorating) and New Year's Eve parties with fireworks and champagne create a celebratory rhythm throughout the voyage. Christmas market shore excursions—particularly on Rhine sailings—include guided visits to Strasbourg's Place Broglie, Colmar's Petite Venise and Basel's Barfüsserplatz, with tastings of vin chaud, gingerbread and local specialities, plus time to browse artisan stalls for handmade gifts. The short Rhine river cruise focused on Christmas markets and the 2-night festive cruise Tilbury?Antwerp exemplify the immersive festive sailing experience, where every port and every evening onboard celebrates December's magic.

Island excursions, beaches and water sports (Canaries/Caribbean) — sample shore activities

Winter-sun cruises in the Canaries and Caribbean transform shore time into active exploration and beach relaxation, with half-day and full-day excursions designed to showcase each island's unique character. In the Canary Islands, options include cable-car ascents of Teide National Park's volcanic peak in Tenerife, levada walks through Madeira's laurel forests in Funchal, dolphin-watching catamarans off Gran Canaria, wine tours in Lanzarote's La Geria vineyards, and beach clubs on Fuerteventura's golden sands. In the Caribbean, excursions might include climbing Jamaica's Dunn's River Falls, snorkelling Cozumel's coral reefs, visiting Grand Cayman's Stingray City, exploring St Maarten's dual-nation culture, or kayaking through mangrove forests. Water-sports packages—snorkelling, diving, paddleboarding, jet-skiing—are often available as add-ons, while family-friendly options ensure everyone from toddlers to grandparents finds something engaging. The 7-night Canary-Madeira-Agadir cruise and the small-ship Caribbean sailing offer island excursion suggestions and water-sports access, making every port a new adventure.

Historical & archaeological shore visits (Pompeii, Alhambra, Luxor temples) — planning time per stop

Cultural shore excursions in December benefit from cooler temperatures and thinner crowds, making it easier to explore UNESCO World Heritage sites and archaeological wonders at a comfortable pace. Pompeii and Herculaneum (accessible from Naples) require 4 to 5 hours for a comprehensive guided tour, walking ancient streets frozen by Vesuvius's eruption in 79 AD. Granada's Alhambra demands 4 to 6 hours (book tickets well ahead, as daily entry is capped), with its Nasrid Palaces, Generalife gardens and Alcazaba fortress revealing Moorish Spain's zenith. Luxor's temples and Valley of the Kings on the Nile consume a full day, with Karnak's hypostyle hall, the Valley's royal tombs, Hatshepsut's temple and Colossi of Memnon forming an unforgettable archaeological circuit. Córdoba's Mezquita requires 2 to 3 hours, its forest of columns and horseshoe arches a masterpiece of Islamic architecture. Comfortable walking shoes, sun protection (even in December), water and a camera are essential, and entrance fees are often included in guided excursions. The 7-night Italy cruise departing Naples (Pompeii, Mount Etna), the 7-night Guadalquivir cruise (Alhambra, Mezquita), and the Hurghada package with optional Nile cruise (Luxor temples) all deliver rich cultural shore programmes.

What to pack, health & documents, and booking tips for December cruises

Preparation transforms a good December cruise into an exceptional one, ensuring you have the right clothing for variable climates, the necessary documents for smooth embarkation, and the booking strategy to secure the best value and experiences.

Packing for December cruises depends entirely on your destination. Arctic and Northern Europe sailings demand warm layers—thermal base layers, fleece mid-layers, waterproof and windproof outer shell, insulated gloves, warm hat, scarf, insulated boots—plus formal attire (suit or cocktail dress) for gala nights. Canaries, Caribbean and Nile cruises require lighter layers—linen trousers, cotton shirts, light cardigan or jacket for air-conditioned interiors and cooler evenings, sun hat, sunglasses, high-SPF sunscreen, swimwear and beach cover-ups—alongside one or two formal outfits for gala dinners. Mediterranean sailings sit in between, with mid-weight layers, light waterproof jacket, comfortable walking shoes and smart-casual evening wear. Regardless of itinerary, pack binoculars (essential for Northern Lights, wildlife, scenic fjords), seasickness remedies (wristbands, ginger tablets, prescription medication if prone), a small daypack for shore excursions, power adapters (varies by ship registry), and any prescription medications in original packaging with a doctor's letter if necessary.

Health and document requirements vary by destination. All cruises require a valid passport with at least six months' validity beyond your return date (some countries enforce this strictly). European cruises for UK and EU citizens need no visas, though EU/UK health cards (EHIC/GHIC) are recommended for emergency medical cover. Egypt (Nile cruises) requires a visa, often available on arrival or pre-arranged online. USA-departing Caribbean cruises (Miami embarkation) require an ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization) for UK and EU citizens. Travel insurance is essential, covering medical emergencies, evacuation (particularly important for Arctic and remote sailings), trip cancellation, missed connections and lost luggage; ensure your policy explicitly covers cruise travel and any adventure activities (snowmobiling, diving). Vaccinations are generally not required for Europe, Canaries or Caribbean, but check current recommendations for Egypt (hepatitis A, typhoid) and ensure routine vaccinations (tetanus, MMR) are up to date.

Booking tips for December cruises centre on timing, inclusions and flexibility. Book early for Christmas and New Year sailings, as these high-demand departures sell out months ahead and command premium pricing. Compare what's included: some cruises offer full board only, while others include excursions, drinks packages (all-inclusive options on Canary/Caribbean sailings) and gratuities—understanding inclusions helps you assess true value. Check embarkation ports: UK departures (Southampton, Tilbury) save on flights but may offer fewer itinerary options, while fly-cruise packages (Miami, Tenerife, Bergen) expand choices but add flight logistics. Pre-book popular shore excursions (Alhambra tickets, Northern Lights tours, Pompeii guided visits) to avoid disappointment, as capacity is limited. Review cancellation policies, particularly for December bookings, as winter weather can disrupt travel plans; flexible or refundable rates offer peace of mind. Finally, explore exclusive member deals and handpicked sailings, where curated offers and added value (cabin upgrades, onboard credit, excursion packages) enhance your December cruise experience.

FAQ

Cruise December FAQ

Cruise December

December cruises span an extraordinary range of destinations and climates. Mediterranean sailings visit Italy, Sicily and Andalusia with milder winter temperatures and cultural richness. Canary Islands, Madeira and Morocco deliver reliable winter sun (18–22°C) and island diversity. Caribbean and Bahamas voyages from Miami offer tropical escapes (25–30°C) and New Year celebrations. Rhine Christmas market cruises explore Strasbourg, Colmar, Basel and Antwerp with festive atmosphere. Norway and Arctic sailings chase the Northern Lights along Hurtigruten routes and Tromsø. Nile River cruises immerse you in Egyptian archaeology under ideal December conditions. Each region offers distinct experiences, from beach relaxation to aurora hunting.

Absolutely. December cruises deliver excellent value through off-peak pricing and exclusive deals, fewer crowds at popular ports and attractions, festive onboard atmosphere with gala dinners and seasonal celebrations, and diverse climate options—guaranteed tropical sun in the Caribbean and Canaries, mild cultural exploration in the Mediterranean, or Arctic adventure in Norway. Unique experiences such as Christmas markets, Northern Lights voyages and New Year sailings make December particularly special. Whether you seek a short festive break or a longer winter-sun escape, December cruises offer unbeatable variety and value.

Yes, December is peak aurora season in Arctic Norway, with long polar nights (up to 20 hours of darkness above the Arctic Circle) maximising your chances of witnessing the Northern Lights. Hurtigruten coastal cruises from Bergen to Kirkenes and shorter Tromsø-based sailings offer excellent opportunities, with onboard aurora experts, deck viewing areas and optional excursions (catamaran chases, snowmobile safaris) designed to optimise sightings. However, aurora appearances are never guaranteed, as they depend on solar activity, clear skies and weather conditions. Multiple nights above the Arctic Circle improve your odds.

Canary Islands, Madeira and Morocco enjoy the most reliable December weather—18–22°C, sunny and dry—ideal for beach time, hiking and island excursions. Caribbean and Bahamas sailings guarantee tropical warmth (25–30°C) with calm seas and minimal rainfall. Nile River cruises in Egypt benefit from 20–25°C and dry, sunny conditions, perfect for temple visits. Mediterranean destinations (Italy, Andalusia) are milder (10–16°C) with occasional rain but fewer crowds and comfortable sightseeing temperatures. Arctic Norway is cold (sub-zero) but offers magical winter landscapes and Northern Lights opportunities.

Yes, short Rhine river cruises (2–4 nights) visit Europe's most celebrated Christmas markets throughout December, with peak festive atmosphere in early to mid-month. Typical itineraries embark in Strasbourg or Basel, stopping in Colmar, Breisach and Kehl, with guided market visits, mulled-wine tastings, seasonal menus and onboard carol concerts. UK departures from Tilbury to Antwerp offer convenient access without flights. These sailings provide concentrated festive immersion, combining twinkling lights, artisan stalls, local delicacies and cosy river-ship comfort, making them the perfect short winter break.

Packing depends on your destination. Arctic and Northern Europe cruises require warm layers (thermals, fleece, waterproof shell), insulated gloves, hat, scarf, boots and formal attire for gala nights. Canaries, Caribbean and Nile sailings need light layers (linen, cotton), sun protection (hat, sunglasses, SPF 50), swimwear and one or two formal outfits. Mediterranean cruises sit in between, with mid-weight layers, light waterproof jacket and smart-casual evening wear. All cruises benefit from binoculars (Northern Lights, wildlife, scenery), seasickness remedies, comfortable walking shoes, daypack for excursions and power adapters. Pack prescription medications in original packaging.

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