White sand beaches, crystal-clear turquoise waters, vibrant local cultures, and year-round sunshine have made the Caribbean the world's most popular cruise destination. Whether you're a first-time cruiser or a seasoned sailor, a Caribbean cruise offers something for everyone.
Caribbean cruise itineraries broadly fall into three categories: Eastern, Western, and Southern. Each has its own appeal, and choosing between them comes down to what you most want from your time at sea.
EASTERN CARIBBEAN
Eastern Caribbean itineraries are a classic Caribbean experience. These sailings typically depart from Miami, Fort Lauderdale, or Port Canaveral, making them convenient and cost-effective options, particularly those flying in from major Canadian hubs.
PORTS
- St. Thomas, in the U.S. Virgin Islands, is known for shopping, where duty-free jewelry and designer goods draw visitors into the colourful shopfronts.
- St. Maarten, divided between French and Dutch governance on a single island, offers fine dining on the French side and lively casinos and beach bars on the Dutch.
- Nassau in the Bahamas offers an appealing mix of history, culture, and natural beauty within easy reach of the pier. When history has been sufficiently absorbed, the powder-white sands and impossibly clear waters of Cable Beach and Paradise Island are just minutes away.
- In San Juan, Puerto Rico you can stroll along the cobblestone streets of the fortified Old City, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
WESTERN CARIBBEAN
Western Caribbean cruises can feel more adventurous and action-packed. These itineraries also depart primarily from Florida ports.
PORTS
- Grand Cayman offers some of the finest snorkeling and diving in the Caribbean. Take a trip to Stingray City, where you can get friendly with the stingrays.
- Cozumel, just off the coast of Mexico's Yucatan Peninsula, is surrounded by part of the second-largest coral reef system in the world, making it a paradise for divers and snorkelers.
- Playa del Carmen offers a more relaxed, bohemian Mexican atmosphere, with excellent cuisine and easy access to ancient Mayan ruins.
- Ocho Rios, Jamaica, with its lush tropical scenery, reggae rhythms, and iconic Dunn's River Falls make every visit memorable.
SOUTHERN CARIBBEAN
Southern Caribbean cruises typically depart from San Juan, Puerto Rico, which can be less convenient since it is not a major international hub. Flight connections may be required from many Canadian cities.
PORTS
- Barbados blends British colonial charm with vibrant local culture, offering visitors everything from the historic streets of Bridgetown and its rum distilleries to some of the finest white-sand beaches in the region.
- Grenada, known as the "Spice Isle" for its abundant production of nutmeg, cinnamon, and cloves, is a lush, unhurried island with colourful harbour markets, and an underwater sculpture park.
- St. Lucia, one of the most dramatically beautiful islands in the entire Caribbean, is dominated by the iconic twin volcanic peaks of the Pitons. Enjoy rainforest hikes, natural sulphur springs, world-class diving, and a vibrant culinary scene rooted in French and Creole traditions.
- Aruba enjoys near-constant sunshine and reliably calm turquoise waters, making it a haven for beach lovers, with the famous white sands of Eagle Beach among the most celebrated in the Caribbean.
- Bonaire is widely regarded as one of the top shore-diving destinations in the world, with protected coral reefs teeming with life just steps from the shoreline.
- Antigua is famed for having a beach for every day of the year, 365 in total. With a rich sailing heritage, Antiqua is one of the most historically compelling stops in the Caribbean.
WHEN TO CRUISE THE CARIBBEAN
Caribbean cruises run year-round, meaning there is never a bad time to take a Caribbean cruise! Peak season falls between December and April but for those seeking quieter ships and better value, the shoulder months of May, early June, and November can offer excellent deals. It's worth bearing in mind that hurricane season officially runs from June through November, with August and September carrying the most risk.
Whatever time of year you choose, and whichever itinerary calls to you, a Caribbean cruise offers an easily accessible, sun-drenched and endlessly enjoyable way to explore one of the world's most beautiful regions. Speak with one of our travel experts to find the sailing that fits you. You can reach us seven days a week at 1-800-665-4981.
