The Caribbean is larger than most people think. Made up of thousands of islands and cays and organized into dozens of countries, territories and sovereign states, the islands are as numerous and varied as books in a library. This is why cruise lines often segment this desirable region into three main itineraries — Eastern Caribbean, Western Caribbean and Southern Caribbean — allowing you to experience one corner of paradise at a time. Which is right for you? Read on to find out.
The Baths on Tortola, British Virgin Islands
The Eastern Caribbean
Sample 7-night itinerary: Orlando (Port Canaveral), Florida; Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic; St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands; Tortola, British Virgin Islands; Great Stirrup Cay, Bahamas; Orlando (Port Canaveral), Florida
The Eastern Caribbean is a popular destination for cruises launching from such Florida ports as Miami, Orlando or Fort Lauderdale. Whether you thirst for natural beauty, fascinating history or just Caribbean rum, there’s something here for everybody. On a cruise such as this, you could swim next to mammoth boulders and into sea caves at The Baths on Tortola, hike through the gorgeous tropical forest near Magens Bay on St. Thomas or combine zip lining, ATV riding and waterfall swimming near Puerto Plata. Whichever island you visit, it’ll also have a tantalizing strip of powder-soft beach calling your name.
Maya ruins near Cozumel, Mexico
The Western Caribbean
Sample 7-night itinerary: Miami, Florida; Roatán (Bay Islands), Honduras; Harvest Caye, Belize; Costa Maya, Mexico; Cozumel, Mexico; Miami, Florida
Western Caribbean cruises can also depart from Florida, though other intriguing launch ports — such as New Orleans or Galveston — may be a closer choice for you. You’ll discover a rich mix of captivating islands in this region, along with historic coastal towns in Mexico and Central America. On these voyages, you could explore the waters of the incredible Mesoamerican Reef, the second-largest reef in the world, on your stop at Costa Maya. Or journey back in time at the Tulum Maya ruins outside Cozumel, walking among mysterious temples and hieroglyphic writings. Each port holds another adventure you’ll never forget.
Casibari Rock Formation, Oranjestad
The Southern Caribbean
Sample 7-night itinerary: San Juan, Puerto Rico; Punta Cana (La Romana), Dominican Republic; Oranjestad, Aruba; Willemstad, Curaçao; Castries, St. Lucia; Basseterre, St. Kitts; San Juan, Puerto Rico
You get to explore more of the Southern Caribbean whenever you depart from a southerly port, such as San Juan, a destination we highly suggest you spend a few days in to enjoy before or after the voyage (ask our travel agents for suggestions!). Once on the cruise, you’ll discover that each island is a playground for nature lovers. In Oranjestad, you can climb the Casibari Rock formation, a unique cluster of giant boulders that gives you an inspiring panoramic view from the top. See quaint colonial architecture in Willemstad and dive among the area’s stunning coral reefs. And in Castries, you can experience the world’s only drive-in volcanic crater at Sulfur Springs.
Norwegian Cruise Line is a great option to explore the Caribbean
Norwegian Cruise Line
One cruise line you can trust to showcase the best of each of these regions is Norwegian Cruise Line. Their itineraries — which are used above in each sample — give you plenty of time to have fun in the sun at every port you visit. Plus, thanks to their More At Sea™ at package, you can easily enjoy more of the finer things, like more decadent dinners at specialty restaurants, more unlimited premium cocktails and more exploring ashore with excursion credits. High-speed internet and free airfare for second guest are also included in the More At Sea package! Contact our travel agents to learn more.
