Caribbean Cruise

Caribbean Cruising

Treat Yourself To A Fun-Filled Adventure In Paradise ... Life's A Beach In Cruising's Most Picturesque & Popular Destination!

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Recommended Caribbean Cruises

Featured Caribbean Cruises

  • Carnival Magic
    4.1 rating out of 5  (3,815 reviews)

    6 Night Eastern Caribbean

    Carnival Magic - Recently Revitalized!

    Departing from: Miami, Florida
    Ports of Call:
    • Celebration Key, Bahamas
    • Amber Cove (Puerto Plata), Dominican Republic
    • Grand Turk Island, Turks & Caicos
    Sailing Dates:
    • September 2026
    • October 2026
    • November 2026
    • January 2027
    • February 2027
    • March 2027
    • April 2027
    • May 2027
    • June 2027
    • July 2027
    • September 2027
    • October 2027
    • November 2027
    interior from
    $367
    $61pernight
    oceanview from
    $418
    $70pernight
    balcony from
    $625
    $104pernight
    suite from
    $865
    $144pernight
    Rewards & Bonus Offers:
    • Get an extra $25-$1,500 just for booking with us!
    • VIFP Members: Unlock big savings!
    • Lock in your cruise for just $25 per room!
    • Exclusive: Gratuities Included for All Guests
    • Endless Summer Flash Sale: Up to 55% Savings
    • More Time to Pay + Up to $50 to Spend + $1 Upgrades
    • Up to 2-Category Upgrade!
     
    Interior from $367
    ($61pernight)
    4.1 rating out of 5  (3,815 reviews)
  • Norwegian Luna
    4.3 rating out of 5  (55 reviews)

    7 Night Caribbean: Great Stirrup Cay & Dominican Republic

    Norwegian Luna - New Ship!

    Departing from: Miami, Florida
    Ports of Call:
    • Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic
    • Charlotte Amalie, St. Thomas, U.S.V.I.
    • Road Town, Tortola, B.V.I.
    • Great Stirrup Cay (Cruiseline Private Island), Bahamas
    Sailing Dates:
    • September 2026
    • October 2026
    • October 2027
    • November 2027
    • December 2027
    • January 2028
    • February 2028
    • March 2028
    interior from
    $489
    $70pernight
    oceanview from
    $609
    $87pernight
    balcony from
    $709
    $101pernight
    suite from
    $1,334
    $191pernight
    Rewards & Bonus Offers:
    • Get an extra $25-$1,500 just for booking with us!
    • Save up to $150 Instantly! Call and Mention: CruiseFirst
    • Lock in your cruise for just $25 per room!
    • Limited Time Savings + Up to $50 to Spend on Board
    • 3rd & 4th Guests Sail Free!
    • Enhanced Free at Sea Plus Experience
    • Call for rates too low to show!
     
    Interior from $489
    ($70pernight)
    4.3 rating out of 5  (55 reviews)
  • Nieuw Amsterdam
    4.2 rating out of 5  (847 reviews)

    9 Night Southern Caribbean: ABC Islands

    Nieuw Amsterdam

    Departing from: Ft. Lauderdale (Port Everglades), Florida
    Ports of Call:
    • Cabo Rojo, Dominican Republic
    • Willemstad, Curacao
    • Oranjestad, Aruba
    • Relaxaway, Half Moon Cay, Bahamas
    Sailing Dates:
    • October 2026
    interior from
    $1,099
    $122pernight
    oceanview from
    $1,049
    $117pernight
    balcony from
    $1,589
    $177pernight
    suite from
    $2,399
    $267pernight
    Rewards & Bonus Offers:
    • Get an extra $25-$1,500 just for booking with us!
    • Have It All: Drinks, Wi-Fi & More
    • Exclusive: Free Tamarind Dinner for 2 - Call
     
    Oceanview from $1,049
    ($117pernight)
    4.2 rating out of 5  (847 reviews)

Western Caribbean Cruises

Explore mysterious Mayan ruins in Costa Maya, Mexico. Snorkel through some of the world's most breathtaking reefs off the coast of Belize. Climb up Dunn's River Falls in Ocho Rios, Jamaica. A Western Caribbean cruise is perfect for the adventurous at heart.
  • MSC Seascape
    4.1 rating out of 5  (523 reviews)

    7 Night Western Caribbean

    MSC Seascape

    Departing from: Galveston, Texas
    Ports of Call:
    • Costa Maya (Mahahual), Mexico
    • Roatan (Isla Roatan), Bay Islands, Honduras
    • Cozumel, Mexico
    Sailing Dates:
    • September 2026
    • October 2026
    • November 2026
    interior from
    $295
    $42pernight
    oceanview from
    $399
    $57pernight
    balcony from
    $428
    $61pernight
    suite from
    $1,189
    $170pernight
    Rewards & Bonus Offers:
    • Get an extra $25-$1,500 just for booking with us!
    • Labor Day Sale: Up to 40% Savings + Kids Sail Free
    • ALL IN: Save on Drinks & Wi-Fi!
    • Labor Day Sale: Up to 40% Off + Up to $400 Instant Savings
     
    Was $1,200 – Save up to 75%
    Interior from $295
    ($42pernight)
    4.1 rating out of 5  (523 reviews)
  • Carnival Breeze
    4.2 rating out of 5  (3,357 reviews)

    4 Night Western Caribbean

    Carnival Breeze

    Departing from: Galveston, Texas
    Ports of Call:
    • Cozumel, Mexico
    Sailing Dates:
    • September 2026
    • October 2026
    • November 2026
    • December 2026
    • January 2027
    • February 2027
    • March 2027
    • April 2027
    interior from
    $377
    $94pernight
    oceanview from
    $497
    $124pernight
    balcony from
    $582
    $146pernight
    suite from
    $848
    $212pernight
    Rewards & Bonus Offers:
    • Get an extra $25-$1,500 just for booking with us!
    • VIFP Members: Unlock big savings!
    • Lock in your cruise for just $25 per room!
    • Exclusive: Gratuities Included for All Guests
    • Endless Summer Flash Sale: Up to 55% Savings
    • Up to 50% Off Standard Rates
    • Up to 2-Category Upgrade!
     
    Interior from $377
    ($94pernight)
    4.2 rating out of 5  (3,357 reviews)
  • Radiance of the Seas
    4.2 rating out of 5  (1,439 reviews)

    4 Night Western Caribbean

    Radiance of the Seas

    Departing from: Tampa, Florida
    Ports of Call:
    • Cozumel, Mexico
    Sailing Dates:
    • October 2026
    • May 2027
    • June 2027
    • July 2027
    • August 2027
    • September 2027
    • October 2027
    interior from
    $308
    $77pernight
    oceanview from
    $326
    $82pernight
    balcony from
    $448
    $112pernight
    suite from
    $952
    $238pernight
    Rewards & Bonus Offers:
    • Get an extra $25-$1,500 just for booking with us!
    • Crown and Anchor Members: Earn Double Loyalty Points
    • Lock in your cruise for just $25 per room!
    • 60% Off Second Guest
    • Up to $50 to Spend on Board
    • Last Minute Cruises: Price Drop
     
    Interior from $308
    ($77pernight)
    4.2 rating out of 5  (1,439 reviews)
  • Mariner of the Seas
    4.3 rating out of 5  (2,715 reviews)

    4 Night Western Caribbean

    Mariner of the Seas

    Departing from: Galveston, Texas
    Ports of Call:
    • Cozumel, Mexico
    Sailing Dates:
    • September 2026
    • October 2026
    interior from
    $389
    $97pernight
    oceanview from
    $418
    $105pernight
    balcony from
    $666
    $167pernight
    suite from
    $959
    $240pernight
    Rewards & Bonus Offers:
    • Get an extra $25-$1,500 just for booking with us!
    • Crown and Anchor Members: Earn Double Loyalty Points
    • Last Minute Cruises: Price Drop
    • Flash Sale: Up to $400 Instant Savings
    • Kids and Teens Sail Free!
     
    Was $1,181 – Save up to 67%
    Interior from $389
    ($97pernight)
    4.3 rating out of 5  (2,715 reviews)
  • Norwegian Prima
    4.1 rating out of 5  (474 reviews)

    7 Night Caribbean: Great Stirrup Cay & Cozumel

    Norwegian Prima - OPEN BAR!

    Departing from: Port Canaveral (Orlando), Florida
    Ports of Call:
    • Great Stirrup Cay (Cruiseline Private Island), Bahamas
    • Falmouth, Jamaica
    • George Town, Grand Cayman
    • Cozumel, Mexico
    Sailing Dates:
    • September 2026
    • October 2026
    interior from
    $549
    $78pernight
    oceanview from
    $649
    $93pernight
    balcony from
    $749
    $107pernight
    suite from
    $1,224
    $175pernight
    Rewards & Bonus Offers:
    • Get an extra $25-$1,500 just for booking with us!
    • 3rd & 4th Guests Sail Free!
    • Enhanced Free at Sea Plus Experience
    • 50% Off Cruises + Free at Sea Offers
    • Call for rates too low to show!
     
    Interior from $549
    ($78pernight)
    4.1 rating out of 5  (474 reviews)
  • Celebrity Reflection
    4.4 rating out of 5  (1,883 reviews)

    6 Night Grand Cayman Bahamas & Mexico

    Celebrity Reflection

    Departing from: Ft. Lauderdale (Port Everglades), Florida
    Ports of Call:
    • George Town, Grand Cayman
    • Cozumel, Mexico
    • Bimini, Bahamas
    Sailing Dates:
    • September 2026
    interior from
    Call for availability
    oceanview from
    $726
    $121pernight
    balcony from
    $1,256
    $209pernight
    suite from
    Call for availability
    Rewards & Bonus Offers:
    • All-Included: Drinks & Wi-Fi
    • Bonus Savings: Up to $100 in Bonus Savings!
    • Summer Sale: 75% Off 2nd Guest + Up to $750 in Savings!
     
    Was $2,758 – Save up to 74%
    Oceanview from $726
    ($121pernight)
    4.4 rating out of 5  (1,883 reviews)
  • Celebrity Eclipse
    4.3 rating out of 5  (1,054 reviews)

    5 Night Western Caribbean

    Celebrity Eclipse

    Departing from: Ft. Lauderdale (Port Everglades), Florida
    Ports of Call:
    • Key West, Florida
    • Cozumel, Mexico
    Sailing Dates:
    • January 2027
    interior from
    $605
    $121pernight
    oceanview from
    $645
    $129pernight
    balcony from
    $723
    $145pernight
    suite from
    $3,120
    $624pernight
    Rewards & Bonus Offers:
    • Get an extra $25-$1,500 just for booking with us!
    • Captains Club Members: Earn Double Loyalty Points
    • Exclusive: $100 to Spend on Board
    • Lock in your cruise for just $25 per room!
    • All-Included: Drinks & Wi-Fi
    • 3rd, 4th & 5th Guests Sail Free
     
    Was $2,705 – Save up to 78%
    Interior from $605
    ($121pernight)
    4.3 rating out of 5  (1,054 reviews)
  • Celebrity Beyond
    4.5 rating out of 5  (478 reviews)

    7 Night Grand Cayman Mexico & Perfect Day

    Celebrity Beyond

    Departing from: Miami, Florida
    Ports of Call:
    • Perfect Day At Coco Cay, Bahamas
    • George Town, Grand Cayman
    • Cozumel, Mexico
    • Nassau, Bahamas
    Sailing Dates:
    • October 2026
    interior from
    $1,029
    $147pernight
    oceanview from
    $1,250
    $179pernight
    balcony from
    Call for availability
    suite from
    Call for availability
    Rewards & Bonus Offers:
    • Get an extra $25-$1,500 just for booking with us!
    • Captains Club Members: Earn Double Loyalty Points
    • All-Included: Drinks & Wi-Fi
    • 3rd, 4th & 5th Guests Sail Free
    • Bonus Savings: Up to $100 in Bonus Savings!
    • Summer Sale: 75% Off 2nd Guest + Up to $750 in Savings!
     
    Was $3,498 – Save up to 71%
    Interior from $1,029
    ($147pernight)
    4.5 rating out of 5  (478 reviews)

Eastern Caribbean Cruises

With most itineraries featuring stops at the US Virgin Islands, British Virgin Islands, St. Martin, Turks & Caicos, and more, refined luxury, world-class shopping, and white-sand beaches await on an Eastern Caribbean cruise.
  • Carnival Celebration
    4.3 rating out of 5  (649 reviews)

    7 Night Eastern Caribbean

    Carnival Celebration

    Departing from: Miami, Florida
    Ports of Call:
    • Charlotte Amalie, St. Thomas, U.S.V.I.
    • San Juan, Puerto Rico
    • Celebration Key, Bahamas
    Sailing Dates:
    • September 2026
    • November 2026
    • December 2026
    • January 2027
    • February 2027
    • May 2027
    • September 2027
    • November 2027
    • January 2028
    interior from
    $541
    $77pernight
    oceanview from
    $648
    $93pernight
    balcony from
    $811
    $116pernight
    suite from
    $1,028
    $147pernight
    Rewards & Bonus Offers:
    • Get an extra $25-$1,500 just for booking with us!
    • VIFP Members: Unlock big savings!
    • Lock in your cruise for just $25 per room!
    • Endless Summer Flash Sale: Up to 55% Savings
    • Up to 50% Off Standard Rates
    • More Time to Pay + Up to $50 to Spend + $1 Upgrades
    • Up to 2-Category Upgrade!
     
    Interior from $541
    ($77pernight)
    4.3 rating out of 5  (649 reviews)
  • Celebrity Beyond
    4.5 rating out of 5  (478 reviews)

    7 Night Tortola St. Maarten & Puerto Plata

    Celebrity Beyond

    Departing from: Miami, Florida
    Ports of Call:
    • Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic
    • Tortola, British Virgin Islands
    • Philipsburg, St. Maarten
    Sailing Dates:
    • September 2026
    • October 2026
    interior from
    $890
    $127pernight
    oceanview from
    $1,277
    $182pernight
    balcony from
    $1,512
    $216pernight
    suite from
    Call for availability
    Rewards & Bonus Offers:
    • Get an extra $25-$1,500 just for booking with us!
    • Captains Club Members: Earn Double Loyalty Points
    • All-Included: Drinks & Wi-Fi
    • Exciting Deals: Reduced Rates + Drinks & Wi-Fi Included - Ends Monday
    • Bonus Savings: Up to $100 in Bonus Savings!
    • Summer Sale: 75% Off 2nd Guest + Up to $750 in Savings!
     
    Was $3,350 – Save up to 73%
    Interior from $890
    ($127pernight)
    4.5 rating out of 5  (478 reviews)
  • Zuiderdam
    4 rating out of 5  (824 reviews)

    7 Night Eastern Caribbean: San Juan & St. Thomas

    Zuiderdam

    Departing from: Miami, Florida
    Ports of Call:
    • Grand Turk Island, Turks & Caicos
    • San Juan, Puerto Rico
    • Charlotte Amalie, St. Thomas, U.S.V.I.
    • Relaxaway, Half Moon Cay, Bahamas
    Sailing Dates:
    • December 2026
    interior from
    $749
    $107pernight
    oceanview from
    $799
    $114pernight
    balcony from
    $899
    $128pernight
    suite from
    $1,399
    $200pernight
    Rewards & Bonus Offers:
    • Get an extra $25-$1,500 just for booking with us!
    • Have It All: Drinks, Wi-Fi & More
     
    Interior from $749
    ($107pernight)
    4 rating out of 5  (824 reviews)
  • Eurodam
    4.1 rating out of 5  (1,191 reviews)

    7 Night Eastern Caribbean: San Juan & St. Thomas

    Eurodam

    Departing from: Ft. Lauderdale (Port Everglades), Florida
    Ports of Call:
    • Grand Turk Island, Turks & Caicos
    • San Juan, Puerto Rico
    • Charlotte Amalie, St. Thomas, U.S.V.I.
    • Relaxaway, Half Moon Cay, Bahamas
    Sailing Dates:
    • November 2026
    interior from
    $799
    $114pernight
    oceanview from
    $829
    $118pernight
    balcony from
    $899
    $128pernight
    suite from
    $1,749
    $250pernight
    Rewards & Bonus Offers:
    • Get an extra $25-$1,500 just for booking with us!
    • Have It All: Drinks, Wi-Fi & More
    • Exclusive: Free Tamarind Dinner for 2 - Call
     
    Interior from $799
    ($114pernight)
    4.1 rating out of 5  (1,191 reviews)
  • Brilliant Lady
    4.3 rating out of 5  (44 reviews)

    10 Night St. Maarten Tortola San Juan & more

    Brilliant Lady - New Ship! Adults-Only!

    Departing from: Miami, Florida
    Ports of Call:
    • Philipsburg, St. Maarten
    • Road Town, Tortola, B.V.I.
    • Frederiksted, St. Croix, U.S.V.I.
    • San Juan, Puerto Rico
    • Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic
    • The Beach Club (Virgin Voyages), Bimini Bahamas
    Sailing Dates:
    • November 2026
    • January 2027
    • March 2027
    interior from
    $990
    $99pernight
    oceanview from
    $1,090
    $109pernight
    balcony from
    $1,190
    $119pernight
    suite from
    $3,990
    $399pernight
    Rewards & Bonus Offers:
    • Exclusive: up to $200 Bonus On Board Spending - Must Call!
    • Included Wi-Fi, Lowest Available Fares and more
    • Important: Valid Passport Required
    • Exclusive: up to $200 to Spend Onboard
    • 70% off 2nd Sailor
    • Exclusive: Up to $100 Bar Tab Credit!
     
    Interior from $990
    ($99pernight)
    4.3 rating out of 5  (44 reviews)

Southern Caribbean Cruises

Leave all your worries behind and take the route less traveled aboard a Southern Caribbean cruise — explore the iconic forts of Old San Juan, Puerto Rico, visit the Mount Gay Rum distillery in Barbados, hike through the unspoilt wilderness in St. Lucia, or tempt fate at one of Aruba's many luxurious casinos.
  • Rhapsody of the Seas
    4.1 rating out of 5  (1,459 reviews)

    7 Night Southern Caribbean

    Rhapsody of the Seas

    Departing from: San Juan, Puerto Rico
    Ports of Call:
    • Charlotte Amalie, St. Thomas, U.S.V.I.
    • Frederiksted, St. Croix, U.S.V.I.
    • Philipsburg, St. Maarten
    • St. Johns, Antigua
    • Roseau, Dominica
    Sailing Dates:
    • October 2026
    • November 2026
    • December 2026
    • January 2027
    • February 2027
    interior from
    $507
    $72pernight
    oceanview from
    $521
    $74pernight
    balcony from
    $858
    $123pernight
    suite from
    $1,358
    $194pernight
    Rewards & Bonus Offers:
    • Get an extra $25-$1,500 just for booking with us!
    • Crown and Anchor Members: Earn Double Loyalty Points
    • Exclusive: Free Specialty Dinner for 2
    • Lock in your cruise for just $25 per room!
    • 60% Off Second Guest
    • Bonus Savings: Up to $150 Bonus Savings!
     
    Was $1,670 – Save up to 70%
    Interior from $507
    ($72pernight)
    4.1 rating out of 5  (1,459 reviews)
  • Adventure of the Seas
    4.2 rating out of 5  (3,219 reviews)

    8 Night Southern Caribbean & Perfect Day

    Adventure of the Seas

    Departing from: Port Canaveral (Orlando), Florida
    Ports of Call:
    • Perfect Day At Coco Cay, Bahamas
    • Oranjestad, Aruba
    • Willemstad, Curacao
    Sailing Dates:
    • October 2026
    interior from
    $943
    $118pernight
    oceanview from
    $1,013
    $127pernight
    balcony from
    $1,467
    $183pernight
    suite from
    $4,103
    $513pernight
    Rewards & Bonus Offers:
    • Get an extra $25-$1,500 just for booking with us!
    • Crown and Anchor Members: Earn Double Loyalty Points
    • Bonus Savings: Up to $150 Bonus Savings!
    • Flash Sale: Up to $900 Instant Savings
    • Kids and Teens Sail Free!
     
    Was $2,243 – Save up to 58%
    Interior from $943
    ($118pernight)
    4.2 rating out of 5  (3,219 reviews)
  • Freedom of the Seas
    4.3 rating out of 5  (3,630 reviews)

    9 Night Southern Caribbean

    Freedom of the Seas

    Departing from: Miami, Florida
    Ports of Call:
    • Nassau, Bahamas
    • Cabo Rojo, Dominican Republic
    • Willemstad, Curacao
    • Oranjestad, Aruba
    Sailing Dates:
    • October 2026
    interior from
    $615
    $68pernight
    oceanview from
    $795
    $88pernight
    balcony from
    $907
    $101pernight
    suite from
    Call for availability
    Rewards & Bonus Offers:
    • Get an extra $25-$1,500 just for booking with us!
    • Crown and Anchor Members: Earn Double Loyalty Points
    • Bonus Savings: Up to $150 Bonus Savings!
    • Last Minute Cruises: Price Drop
    • Flash Sale: Up to $900 Instant Savings
    • Kids and Teens Sail Free!
    • Call for rates too low to show!
     
    Interior from $615
    ($68pernight)
    4.3 rating out of 5  (3,630 reviews)
  • Explorer of the Seas
    4 rating out of 5  (2,310 reviews)

    9 Night Southern Caribbean & Perfect Day

    Explorer of the Seas

    Departing from: Port Canaveral (Orlando), Florida
    Ports of Call:
    • Oranjestad, Aruba
    • Willemstad, Curacao
    • Kralendijk, Bonaire
    • Perfect Day At Coco Cay, Bahamas
    Sailing Dates:
    • December 2026
    interior from
    $919
    $102pernight
    oceanview from
    $989
    $110pernight
    balcony from
    $1,660
    $184pernight
    suite from
    $2,782
    $309pernight
    Rewards & Bonus Offers:
    • Get an extra $25-$1,500 just for booking with us!
    • Crown and Anchor Members: Earn Double Loyalty Points
    • Exclusive: Free Specialty Dinner for 2
    • Bonus Savings: Up to $150 Bonus Savings!
    • Flash Sale: Up to $900 Instant Savings
    • Kids and Teens Sail Free!
    • Call for rates too low to show!
     
    Was $2,262 – Save up to 59%
    Interior from $919
    ($102pernight)
    4 rating out of 5  (2,310 reviews)

Caribbean Cruise & Port Information

Everything you need to know about cruising the Caribbean!

The Caribbean has long been synonymous with cruising, and it isn't hard to see why. For starters, there's all that choice: over 7,000 islands, spread across more than two-dozen countries, each with its own unique culture and collection of experiences. And since all of these islands are located within close proximity of one another, you'll rarely go a day without calling upon a new port of call (and whenever you do, you'll find yourself with more options than you can shake a palm frond at, from duty-free shopping to daredevil adventures like snorkeling with stingrays).

Chart a course for beautiful beaches, colorful coral reefs, and warm tropical waters on a Caribbean cruise. You'll visit multiple islands in a single voyage, relaxing along sun-kissed shorelines, enjoying a wide range of exciting watersports, and soaking up the region's rich assortment of colonial-era influences!

All of the world's leading cruise lines set sail for the Caribbean including:
 
A majority of the world's top luxury lines cruise the Caribbean, too:
 

Popular Caribbean Cruise Ports


The Caribbean's bevy of blissful islands cover a lot of terrain (literally). You'll find many of the planet's most picturesque beaches here – from pink sands to white sands, and all of them sugary-soft – alongside lush jungle rainforests and rugged, mountainous landscapes. There are also an enormous number of attractions to explore, many of which reflect the British, Dutch, French, and/or Spanish traditions that are an important part of the Caribbean's colonial history.

As a rule, your Caribbean cruise will fall into one of three major categories/regions – an Eastern Caribbean cruise, a Western Caribbean cruise, or a Southern Caribbean cruise. Here's a look at the most popular ports of call and the activities/attractions in each.

Which Ports are in the Eastern Caribbean?

 
  • The capital city and one of the Caribbean's busiest and most popular ports of call. Passengers can choose from an astonishing array of beaches, including world-famous Cable Beach, but it's Atlantis Paradise Island – with its enormous waterpark, marine habitat, eleven pools, and more – that remains the Bahamas' biggest draw (consider purchasing a day pass in advance of travel). Additional highlights include traditional Bahamian dining at the Conch Fritters Bar & Grill and a visit to the Ardastra Zoo, Gardens & Conservation Centre (the only zoo in the Bahamas, it's a great option for families).
  • The Dominican Republic's newest cruise port (it opened in 2015), Amber Cove is your gateway to an almost endless selection of exciting activities. Guests can opt for an exhilarating ATV ride through the rugged Dominican countryside, a deluxe catamaran sail with snorkeling, horseback riding along the beach, and more. Laid-back outings include a visit to a nearby chocolate-making cooperative, where guests can participate in the cultivation of the cacao plant and help produce/package chocolate bars, and the chance to swim among dolphins and sea lions at Ocean World.
  • An exotic mixture of European, African, and indigenous influences, this colorful port of call blends the best of the past and the present. Old San Juan is the undisputed highlight: portions of the district remain encircled by massive and ancient walls, and the city's eclectic jumble of Baroque, Gothic, and Renaissance architecture is truly something to behold. San Juan is also home to a vibrant restaurant and nightclub scene; sample the mofongo (a classic Puerto Rican dish), then swing by Barrachina for a piña colada or two (the restaurant, legend has it, is the birthplace of the now-iconic cocktail).
  • Two ports in one! This beautiful island is shared by both the Dutch and the French (St. Maarten being the Dutch side, while St. Martin belongs to the French), but you can easily move between both halves during your time in port. You'll find some of the Caribbean's very best shopping on offer here, especially along Philipsburg's bustling Front Street, home to great deals on gems and jewelry, designer watches, perfumes, and more. The Dutch side of the island is also the site of some of the Caribbean's prettiest beaches including Little Bay and Maho (famous for its low-flying airliners)
  • Virtually every Eastern Caribbean itinerary will include a stop in St. Thomas, making it one of the region's busiest cruise ports. One of the three major U.S. Virgin Islands (St.Croix and St. John are the others), St. Thomas is home to Magens Bay, considered by many to be the most beautiful beach in all of the Caribbean. Additional attractions include Blackbeard's Castle (a National Historical Landmark) and the panoramic SkyRide to Paradise Point (once you've arrived, be sure to swing by the Point's Restaurant & Bar for a world-famous Bushwacker).

Which Ports are in the Western Caribbean?

 
  • This tiny Central American nation may be small, but its spectacular and uninterrupted series of cays and reefs make it one of the region's foremost diving and snorkeling spots. Situated along the Caribbean Sea, Belize is also home to two must-see Mayan archaeological sites, Altun Ha and Xunantunich, both of which are accessible via shore excursion. Additional attractions include Jaguar Paw (cave tubing, a jungle zipline, and more), San Pedro Town (beach bars, terrific seafood restaurants, etc.), and the Belize Zoo & Tropical Education Center, home to a large collection of exotic species that are native to the country.
  • Grand Cayman truly offers something for everybody. Stingray City, the island's top attraction, offers visitors the chance to mingle with friendly stingrays as they congregate by the shoreline. Bloody Bay Wall is another highlight (no less an authority than Jacques Cousteau called it the planet's single-best diving/snorkeling site), as is Seven Mile Beach, with its crystal-clear waters and its crescent of coral sands. Families will want to pay a visit to the award-winning and interactive Cayman Turtle Centre, and every visitor should make time for at least one sit-down meal while in port (the island, home to a slew of spectacular restaurants, is now rightfully regarded as “the culinary capital of the Caribbean”).
  • Montego Bay is the perfect port of call for active cruisers. Once your ship's docked, you're just a short drive away from a slew of exciting outdoor options including off-road safari adventures, extreme ziplining, bamboo rafting, river tubing, and more (there are also five championship-caliber golf courses located within a few miles of port). Mystic Mountain and Dunn's River Falls, both located in nearby Ocho Rios, are must-see attractions: Sky Explorer, a state-of-the-art chairlift, will transport you to the summit of the former; once you've reached the mountain's peak, you'll have an opportunity to take part in an unforgettable Bobsled Ride (inspired by the legendary 1988 Jamaican Olympic squad).
  • The biggest Mexican island in the Caribbean welcomes over one million cruise passengers per year, but it remains largely unspoiled. One of the world's premier scuba-diving destinations, Cozumel is also the home of several ancient and historically important Mayan ruins including San Gervaiso, the largest collection of ruins on the island. Visitors will also find an exceptionally authentic selection of Mexican restaurants to choose from, many of which are located just minutes from the dock; examples include the family-run Comidas Caseras Toñita and Casa Denis, Cozumel's most venerable dining venue.
  • This charming, low-key port serves as your gateway to the Yucatán Peninsula's more famous attractions. Visitors looking to stick close to their ship can relax on Progreso's gorgeous beach or go for a stroll along the town's impressive Malecón, but to hit all the highlights you'll need to venture inland. A trip to the ancient Mayan city of Chichén Itza is essential; en route, passengers with time to spare can also call upon Mérida, Yucatán's dynamic capital and its cultural epicenter, home to the oldest surviving cathedral in the Americas and some of Mexico's very best shopping.

Which Ports are in the Southern Caribbean?

 
  • The Southern Caribbean's most popular port of call, blessed with dry and sunny weather year-round. The island's golden beaches – Eagle Beach and resort-laden Palm Beach, especially – are huge draws, as is all-inclusive De Palm Island, home to a waterpark, banana-boat rides, air-jumpers, and more (consider purchasing a full-day pass that includes transportation to and from port). Aruba's unusual desert-like landscapes, including its enormous Arikok National Park, are also well worth exploring; guests can traverse the island's rugged terrain aboard an ATV or view it from above via a helicopter tour.
  • Antigua's spectacular beaches (365 of them, supposedly, or one for every day of the year) are the island's main claim to fame. Sun-soaked and secluded, they're a great place for both relaxation and recreation during your time in port; popular examples include Carlisle Bay Beach (a great spot for snorkeling), Dickenson Bay (home to a wide selection of watersport rentals), and Half Moon Bay (widely considered Antigua's most beautiful seashore). Additional attractions include BeachLimerZ, a bistro bar located along historic Fort James Beach, and Redcliffe Quay, St. John's stylish waterfront promenade.
  • This friendly island, with its white-sand beaches and its British-colonial traditions, is a favorite among cruisers. Harrison's Cave – Barbados' leading attraction, an amazing subterranean environment accessible by tramway – is not to be missed; a guided tour, including lunch, of the Mount Gay Rum Distillery is another excellent choice for first-timers. Downtown, you'll find a number of historic landmarks that you can explore (including the George Washington House and the Garrison) and several of the island's leading beaches (e.g. Accra Beach and Paynes Beach) are located within a few miles of the pier.
  • Colorful Curaçao, with its pastel-colored houses and its famous floating pedestrian bridge, is one of the Caribbean's best-kept secrets. The island's eastern side, where you'll dock, is surprisingly cosmopolitan, home to top-shelf attractions like the Curaçao Sea Aquarium and Rif Fort Village. Venture south and west, however, and you'll encounter some of the Southern Caribbean's most rugged and exciting landscapes including the incredible Hato Caves and the cliffs at Playa Forti. Additional highlights include Cas Abao Beach, Playa PortoMari, and a guided tour of the Curaçao Liqueur Distillery.
  • One of the Southern Caribbean's largest islands and an overseas territory of the French. Passengers will find a number of excellent attractions within close proximity to port including Jardin de Balata and Habitation Clément. Martinique's many natural wonders – majestic Mount Pelée, the island's primeval rainforest, Plage des Salines, and others – help make it a prime destination for active cruisers, too. Guests with time to spare will want to pay a visit to the historic remains of Saint-Pierre, the island's original settlement, once considered “the Paris of the Caribbean” and laid waste to by volcanic Pelée back in 1902.

Where are the Departure Ports for a Caribbean Cruise?

Caribbean cruisers can choose from a wide selection of convenient U.S. departure ports (five in the state of Florida alone) including:

When is the Best Time to Cruise the Caribbean?

Unlike many other destinations, you can sail the Caribbean year-round. Peak season runs from mid-December to April, when the region's weather is at its very best: warm, sunny, and dry during the daytime (with virtually no humidity), and comfortably cool/crisp in the evening. But this is also the busiest and most expensive time of year, so if you're looking to avoid the biggest crowds you'll want to steer clear of sailings that depart during the summer months and other periods of time when children are out of school and families cruise (e.g. late December/early January and mid-March through mid-April).

The Caribbean's hurricane season begins in June and runs through November; if storms do occur, they're most likely to appear between mid-August and late October. Generally speaking, you'll find the best prices on offer for cruises that depart during this timeframe, and if you're looking for a bargain then it's well worth it: the chances of your cruise ship getting caught up in a storm are incredibly slim, and today's cruise lines can reroute any itinerary at the drop of a hat.

Will I have to Exchange Currency in the Caribbean?

Not necessarily. On many Caribbean islands, the Eastern Caribbean dollar is the legal tender, while others recognize the euro or some form of local money (e.g. the Barbados dollar, the Jamaican dollar, the Netherlands Antillean guilder) as their official currency. That said, the U.S. dollar remains the most widely accepted currency in the Caribbean, and it will be recognized virtually everywhere you go (it's also the official currency of Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands, and the British Virgin Islands); even those establishments that display pricing in a local currency will be happy to take your U.S. dollars (just keep in mind that you may receive your change in the form of a local currency).

It's always best to plan ahead, though. You may ultimately save some money by converting to a local currency in place of U.S. dollars. If you're unable to exchange currency prior to travel, you may be able to do so while you're aboard your ship or upon arrival in a port of call. Contact your bank, a local currency exchange, or your Caribbean cruise expert for more information/assistance.

Cruises To The Southern Caribbean

Cruises To The Western Caribbean