Should You Cruise the Eastern or Western Caribbean?

Soak up the sun for a few days and use the time to relax and recharge. Head to Nassau, Bahamas, to explore 18th-century Fort Fincastle and wade into the turquoise waters with a mojito in hand at Paradise Island. Each Eastern Caribbean cruise destination offers the perfect balance of beach relaxation and sightseeing. Explore the vibrant streets of San Juan,  marvel at the stunning waterfalls in Ocho Rios, or embark on a snorkeling adventure in St. Thomas. There are dozens of cruise lines that visit this region, so all you need to do is figure out how long you can travel and find the itinerary that best fits your interests.

Holland America

Extend your Caribbean cruise vacation, and simplify your travel plans with a hotel stay at the beginning or end of your cruise. The package includes the cost of your hotel stay, transportation and the services of the representative. Let Princess pick you up from the airport and take you directly to your ship or hotel when you arrive, even if you didn't book your airfare through us.

Explore OurEASTERN CARIBBEAN CRUISE PORTS

We've covered the basics and rounded up 10 Eastern Caribbean cruises to check out for your next tropical getaway. It’s no wonder why as this region offers beautiful weather, iconic landmarks, sprawling beaches, and awe-inspiring natural landscapes. While Australia does offer year-round cruises, you will find the most selection during the months of October to May. With various Lower Mississippi and Upper Mississippi itineraries, guests can visit destinations between New Orleans, Louisiana and St. Paul, Minnesota. Popular ports of call along the way can include Baton Rouge, LA; Memphis, TN; Vicksburg, MS; St. Louis, MO; and Dubuque, IA. These destination-focused itineraries seamlessly connect onboard enrichment with a carefully cultivated schedule of activities and tours while ashore.

Windstar Cruises

But, if we had to suggest a destination, the Eastern Caribbean would be high on the list. With endless sunshine, white-sand beaches, crystal-clear waters, and delicious foods, it’s a corner of the world worth visiting on your next cruise getaway. Mediterranean cruises are usually port intensive, visiting multiple destinations over the duration of the trip. The port visits are also usually very long days as many of the popular tourist attractions are located quite a distance from the cruise ports, as is the case with Rome and Athens. Many cruise lines also run sales at the end of the summer or during Black Friday/Cyber Monday, and Caribbean sailings are almost always included. However, if you'd rather not share the beach with several ships' worth of cruisers, take the ferry to nearby St. John for the day and find a U.S. national park and a more chill beach experience.

The town offers a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure, with opportunities to explore natural wonders like Dunn's River Falls and indulge in local cuisine and cultural experiences. It's difficult to imagine something more romantic than sailing through the warm waters of the Caribbean, hopping between tropical islands and white-sand beaches from the comfortable luxury of your ship. Most major cruise lines now offer cruises in this region with Sydney being the most popular embarkation port.

Caribbean Cruise Destinations: Which Ports Are Where?

While official and independent shore excursions abound in the Eastern Caribbean, renting a car on islands such as St. Maarten or Puerto Rico is usually easy and not too expensive. Make sure you book in advance, as vehicles can go quickly when several ships are in port. One of the top 10 beaches in the world according to National Geographic magazine, Magens Bay, is known for its picturesque beauty and deep, sheltered bay with calm waters.

Golfers, beach lovers, history buffs and underwater explorers will all enjoy a getaway to Bermuda, making it a popular destination for family cruises too. With historical lighthouses, underground caves, 34 fabulous beaches and world-class golf courses, it’s easy to find your happy place in this British island territory. It wouldn’t be a Caribbean cruise without dazzling white-sand beaches, turquoise waters, and aqua-adventures. In St. Kitts & Nevis, lose track of time at Frigate Bay, a secluded cove where swimming, snorkeling, and marine animal sightings are all part of the fun. In the Dominican Republic, relax on Playa Grande, or discover the immaculate stretch of sand at Cane Garden Bay in Tortola.

Eco-tourists delight in Samaná, where North Atlantic humpback whales migrate every winter to birth their young. Keep your eyes open as you zip through trees and valleys in St. Kitts. Whatever you dream, your possibilities are as wide open as the Caribbean Sea. Even European-based lines, such as MSC and Costa, have been placing ships in the area. These cruises are aimed at attracting not only new North American customers, but international passengers looking for a short cruise to add to a longer holiday. Almost 30% of all passengers who sail with us are celebrating an important milestone in their lives.

Night Eastern / Western CaribbeanDetails

THE 25 BEST Cruises from San Juan 2024 (with Prices) on Cruise Critic - Cruise Critic

THE 25 BEST Cruises from San Juan 2024 (with Prices) on Cruise Critic.

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Your Caribbean cruise will take you to some of the lushest forests in the region. Dive reefs off Grand Turk, meander the cobblestoned Old San Juan, and ride horses into the sea on Half Moon Cay. San Juan is full of vibrant colors, from its candy-colored homes and 17th-century architecture to its shimmering lagoons and lush rain forests. Taste your way through the city’s extraordinary culinary scene or immerse yourself in its history.

Though the island is known for luxury shopping and dining, it has pristine beaches, some of the area’s highest viewpoints, and excellent snorkeling opportunities. Whether you’re a history-lover, adventure-seeker or laid-back traveler, discover the best Caribbean cruise destinations for any guest with Princess. Two islands in one, St. Maarten is split between France and the Netherlands, but comes together as one memorable experience.

11 Best Caribbean Beaches You Should Visit on a Cruise - Cruise Critic

11 Best Caribbean Beaches You Should Visit on a Cruise.

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Although some people may believe that the phrase “seen one, seen them all” applies to Eastern Caribbean ports more than to any other destination, each stop offers something different. It’s not all beach and sun in the region, and with a little bit of research you’ll be able to make the most of your days on land. Puerto Rico’s capital is a well-loved destination and one of the most energetic cities in the Caribbean. Swim and snorkel along the beaches of Condado or El Escambrón, where vibrant marine life and coral reefs live. Venture deeper into the island on a journey to El Yunque National Forest, a tropical rainforest with hiking trails and spectacular waterfalls.

Some cruise lines also supplement itineraries with a quick visit to their private islands, such as Royal Caribbean's Labadee in Haiti and Norwegian Cruise Line's Harvest Caye. "Adventure" is the first thing that comes to mind when considering a Western Caribbean cruise. For something a little different, try SeaDream Yacht Club for a super-small ship that feels like a private yacht, complete with an emphasis on alfresco recreation and dining. Star Clippers appeals to sailing enthusiasts with its masted ships, simple entertainment and emphasis on water sports. If you're looking for an adults-only option, Virgin Voyages caters to the young at heart with its edgy new ships. It offers six- and seven-night Caribbean cruises from the late fall until early spring.