The size and the atmosphere of the island make it one of the best in the Caribbean. Millions of travelers rely on Cruise Hive in the United States, Europe, Australia, and around the world. It is arguably the most commercialized and will give visitors the most feeling of familiar settings. There are also 15 dining options, ranging from Japanese fare to all-you-can-eat buffets to Starbucks. Toll Free: 888-407-2784 Visit theCDC websitefor additional COVID-19 cruise ship health and safety data. There are several wreck diving sites including the RMS Rhone, sunk in 1867. There are 10 suite categories available, ranging from the smallest Veranda (307 square feet) and Deluxe Veranda suites (308 to 361 square feet) to the largest Regent (4,443 square feet) and Master suites (1,895 to 2,108 square feet). Last renovated in 2015 (after being introduced in 2011), the 4,000-passenger Disney Dream is one of Disney's largestships. As far as cabins go, cruisers can choose between Interior, Ocean View, and Balcony staterooms, as well as suite accommodations and new Virtual Balcony rooms. Coral ledges and walls that provide excellent snorkelling and diving opportunities. Western vs. Eastern Caribbean: Smackdown! - Cruiseline.com View Map. Once ashore you can enjoy the beautiful beach and sea in Thats because Caribbean is warm and mostly sunny year-round. These technologically advanced cabins feature floor-to-ceiling displays that project real-time views of the sights and sounds from the outside of the ship. Eastern Caribbean vs. Western Caribbean cruises: Which itinerary will I Island tours combine amazing scenery with a taste of history and culture including a stop at the Mount Gay Rum Bottling Plant. The St. Lucia port city of Castries has one of the most beautiful harbors in the Caribbean. They include Jamaica, Grand Cayman, Cozumel, Costa Maya and Belize. Dont miss the Guavaberry Emporium National Monument in Philipsburg. Sailing to destinations like Bonaire, the Bahamas and Honduras, Holland America's ships offer a host of onboard amenities and activities to keep you entertained at sea. Snorkelers can see fish and cannons submerged in the pool while Jimmy Buffett fans can spend the day soaking up the music, cocktails and food at Margaritaville. The local bus or taxi can take you to one of the Rum Distilleries on Tortola. Enter your email to get the 5 Night Eastern Caribbean Cruise brochure containing all the important information right to your inbox. Walkers will enjoy hiking in Sage Mountain National Park on well-marked trails surrounded by arid-loving plants and stunning sea views. Realize that the culture is different on the islands, and go with the flow. We make sure cruisers are fully prepared for their cruise vacation with tips on ships and ports. Look out for pickpockets while you're in port. Within the historic walled city, the 16th century El Morro military fort presides over the town and can be visited as part of a City Walking Tour with a local guide. Atlantic Submarine Tours offer undersea adventures which youngsters will love. Caribbean Cruises: Cruise to Caribbean | Royal Caribbean Cruises The cruise line also entices passengers with its variety of itineraries, covering popular eastern, western and southern Caribbean destinations like the U.S. Virgin Islands and St. Maarten, as well as smaller spots such as Dominica and Grenada. Take the 20-minute ferry ride from Red Hook to the tranquil Other useful souvenirs of your Eastern Caribbean cruise include spices, hot sauces and delicious Tortuga Rum Cake. To see more of this laid-back island, head into Cockburn Town, a 4-mile taxi ride from the port. CruiseDirect can help you book a trip with the best cruise line for Eastern Caribbean vacations and get the best price, thanks to our low price guarantee. That adds up to more choices during this time of year. Eastern Caribbean Cruises 2023-2024 | Holland America Line I was once bumped from a flight home after a spring cruise when a high school Spanish club from Wisconsin needed the seats to travel home together as a group. Visit theCDC websitefor additional COVID-19cruiseship health and safety data. Launched in July 2021, the Odyssey of the Seas holds 5,498 passengers and 1,550 crew members. See what a point or mile is worth with our appraisals of a loyalty programs currency, based on redemption values. CruiseDirectandOne Tree Plantedare planting a tree forevery passengerwhosails withus. If your goal is to avoid crowds of kids and partiers, skip the cheapest and shortest cruises, as well as cruise ships with water parks and thrill rides. Cabins range in size from 141 square feet to 1,290 square feet, with some of the luxury suites boasting floor-to-ceiling windows, whirlpool baths and verandas with hot tubs. Once you dock, you'll be able to participate in fun excursions like sea trek helmet diving, catamaran sailing adventures and rainforest drives. Caribbean itineraries make stops in San Juan, Puerto Rico; St. Croix, U.S. Virgin Islands; and Cozumel, Mexico. Since there are hardly any rivers or run-off, the surrounding waters have exceptional visibility, making Tortola an ideal place for snorkelling and diving. There is a wide array of activities planned for you in advance that you can be a part of. Prices during the first week of March aren't too high before they edge up throughout the rest of the month. But you can filter your search based on price, region, traveler type and brand to find the best ship and itinerary for you. I agree, Discover exclusive cruise offers from our. Over 85 percent of cabins haveocean viewsor verandas. You can sail to spots like the U.S. Virgin Islands and the Cayman Islands, or boat around St. Lucia and other islands. Visit one of the Rum Distilleries in Tortola by local taxi or bus. If you're interested in island hopping, a Carnival cruise is the perfect option. Virgin also boasts a private beach club in Bimini, Bahamas. The temperatures have dropped a few degrees from summers heat and the chance of storms has mostly passed. Visit Royal Caribbean to learn more about their Health & Safety Protocols. Its a short water taxi ride or a 20-minute walk along the road to the designer shops, waterfront market and beach in Philipsburg, capital of the Dutch side of Sint Maarten. The best eastern Caribbean cruise ports are close and convenient for many people living in the United States, which makes them a tempting choice for someone going on their first cruise. A shore excursion may be a good idea to escape the crowded pier area. If you're looking for something more spacious, check out the ship's all-new Suite Neighborhood. We found you 1,984 cruise s Filter Sort: Popularity Norwegian Sky 14 Night Caribbean - Other. Related: Eastern Caribbean vs. Western Caribbean cruises: Which itinerary will I like more? Sample the rum, liquor and hot sauce made from these rare local berries. Ready to cast off and set sail? St. Johns also has a nice shopping and dining district at the cruise docks. think no further because the Westerdam Cruise [], Book Disney Wonder Cruise other in-destination services from a broad Spend your days relaxing at the spa, playing paddle tennis or bocce ball, working up a sweat on the jogging track or taking a dip in the ship's two whirlpools and two pools, one of which is an infinity-edge pool that stretches along the edge of the ship, providing swimmers with exceptional views of the ocean. And when you have a group to manage, you need as many activities as possible to keep everyone entertained. St Thomas is a cosmopolitan cruise port that can accommodate up to six ships. Like Antigua, St. Kitts often appears on schedules for southern Caribbean cruises. OBC has no cash value, is applicable to cruise only, non-transferable, not redeemable for cash, and will expire if not used by 10:00 PM on the final night of the cruise. Book your own beach bungalow on Nellies Beach and sip the local tipple a Labadoozie or enjoy stunning sea views from the Dragons Tail Coaster Ride. Relax and enjoy the journey with our Eastern Caribbean cruise deals. You are sure to find a favourite Caribbean destination among the variety of cruises and all-inclusive resorts available. Celebrity Edge makes sailings acrossthe Caribbean, the Panama Canal and Europe. She uses her personal journals and memories to write about her many cruise experiences around the Caribbean, Mediterranean, trans-Atlantic, Norwegian Fjords, Panama Canal and South America including Cape Horn. There are plenty of ways to enjoy Grand Turk without booking a tour. Coral ledges and walls provide excellent snorkeling and diving or book a Snorkel and Sail experience around nearby St John for a relaxing half-day on the water. Check the cruise line's website before your trip, and also consider purchasing an international travel insurance policy.). St. Thomas. Soft sandy beaches, warm winds blowing through palm trees and crystal-clear waters stretching as far as the eye can see. If I were to narrow it down even further, Id say the best time to cruise to the Caribbean is early December. Even if a hurricane doesn't cause you grief, rain might. Seven Seas Splendor along with most of the line's other ships takes opulence to the next level by equipping each suite with its own private balcony. One of the Edge's most noteworthy venues is the Magic Carpet the world's first cantilevered venue at sea that travels 13 stories. All guests in the same stateroom must choose the same . Check your inbox! Take a walk through St. George Botanical Garden in Frederiksted for natural beauty at its finest. . Summer months are also perfect for multi-generational cruising, as they are often the only months when everyones schedules align. Vacation on a cruise is like staying at a luxury hotel that moves. Eastern Caribbean cruises depart mainly from Florida or Caribbean destinations like San Juan or St. Thomas. Spend the day snorkeling and sunbathing at the beautiful Nevis Beach. Share a taxi or book a guided tour in El Yunque for an amazing rainforest experience. It would be hard to miss the 3,800-foot Mount Liamuiga, which sits at the heart of the island, which is just 69 square miles. Very Good. Plus, there are deals available that bring prices down even lower. For younger travelers, there are some kid-friendly areas of the ship such as a Camp at Sea. A notable attraction on the island is its cruise port, Philipsburg. Guided tours to the Baths and White Bay on the tiny island of Jost Van Dyke take cruisers off-the-beaten-path to see the photogenic wave-sculpted rock formations both above and below water. It is hands down one of the top cruise ports in the Eastern Caribbean. Visit theCDC websitefor additional COVID-19 cruise ship health and safety data. With historical lighthouses, underground caves, 34 fabulous beaches and world-class golf courses, its easy to find your happy place in this British island territory. Visit theCDC website for additional COVID-19 cruise ship health and safety data. Look particularly at last-minute options and those first two weeks in December. Holland America For a weeklong getaway, hop aboard this seven-day Eastern Caribbean trip from Holland America. This 18th-century British stronghold is one of the best-preserved military structures and the views are definitely worth a photo. U.S. News ranks 87 Best Cruises to the Caribbean based on an analysis of reviews and health ratings. YOU CAN CRUISE THE CARIBBEAN AND HALF M N CAY ENJOY THIS BAHAMIAN PRIVATE ISLAND PARADISE EXPLORE HALF MOON CAY BEST PRIVATE ISLAND, 20 YEARS IN A ROW PORTHOLE CRUISE MAGAZINE Overview Ports of Call Sailings View Sailings Caribbean We don't have proof, but evidence suggests that the Caribbean was made for cruising. You [], Book Westerdam Cruise THE 25 BEST 7 Day Cruises to the Eastern Caribbean (Prices & Itineraries) on Cruise Critic 6-9 Day Cruises to the Eastern Caribbean We found you 250 cruise s Filter Sort: Popularity. The Zip Line Course on Serenity Hill runs through a lush canopy. 25 BEST Eastern Caribbean Cruises 2023 (Prices - Cruise Critic Eastern Caribbean is home to so many beautiful ports that make for a memorable cruise vacation. Cabin sizes range from 105 to 177 square feet for the Insider rooms to nearly 2,150 square feet for the RockStar Quarters suites. Be aware that spring break is high season for travel disruptions caused by peak demand. The Bahamas technically are in the Atlantic Ocean and not the Caribbean Sea, but they are a common stop on many eastern Caribbean cruises. THE WORLD'S BEST FAMILY VACATION Introducing the new Icon of the Seas, a whole new class of Royal Caribbean adventure. I've been on lovely cruises in the Caribbean in September and October with calm seas and uncrowded, quiet ships, all at a fraction of the price of cruises just a handful of weeks earlier in the year. Walk to the historic El Morro Castle and pay the admission fee, which includes a guided tour and access to the nearby San Cristobal Fort, a popular place for kite flying. Except for the weeks that include holidays, ships arent likely to be at capacity or filled with screaming children. The family suite offers two floors of space with stunning ocean views, in-suite movies and video games and a kids slide between the floors. If I had to pick based on weather, cost and crowds, Id vote winter as the best time to cruise the Caribbean. Must-dos in The Bahamas: Buy kitschy souvenirs at the straw market, and climb the historic Queens Staircase in Nassau. Many rooms also offer private verandas. The city port of Basseterre has centuries of history in its museums, architecture and culture. Debuted in October 2021, the Scarlet Lady boasts a collection of unique amenities not often found on cruise ships, including a tattoo studio, a record shop and a blow-dry bar. Debutedin December 2018, Celebrity Edge is one of the cruise line's newest ships. If you choose one of these itineraries, you can look forward to excellent island food, warm blue waters, and amazing beaches. And instead of a buffet or a dining hall, the Scarlet Lady offers a collection of more than 20 specialty restaurants, all covered by the cruise fare. For instance, some beaches may allow beachgoers to be nude or topless. Accommodations include Interior, Ocean View, Balcony and Suite staterooms. Labadee, but there is nowhere to go independently. British Virgin Island is a place of tranquillity, beautiful beaches, and great snorkelling and scuba diving. Disclaimers about ship ratings: A ships Health Rating is based on vessel inspection scores published by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Despite high fares, summer cruise pricing and crowd levels stack up favorably against most land-based vacations. 5 Carnival Cruise Tips to Know Before Going, Caribbean Cruise Weather Forecasts - Monthly Tips, Caribbean Cruise Ports of Call: Eastern, Western and Southern, Snuba Cruise Excursions Offer Underwater Adventures, Lambert Beach in the British Virgin Islands. All suites boast verandas that overlook the ocean, plus standard amenities like a complimentary in-suite barand flat-screen TVs. Book an unforgettable Swim with Loggerhead Turtles. Guests can wine and dine at 29 restaurants, bars and lounges, then spend the night testing their luck at the casino or enjoying live music at the Magic Carpet (which offers great ocean views). ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. Also Read: Should You Cruise the Eastern or Western Caribbean? Powered by eTravel, LLC. Ovation debuted in May 2018, making itthe newest addition to the Seabourn family. Eastern Caribbean Cruises - Cruise to Bahamas - Princess Cruises Wonder of the Seas sails to ports in the Caribbean and the Mediterranean. Visit the CDC website for additional COVID-19 cruise ship health and safety data. If lavish resorts and lots of shops and restaurants sound appealing, head to the Turks and Caicos Islands just southeast of The Bahamas. Top Cruise Ports in the Eastern Caribbean - TripSavvy Guests have a wide array of things to do while on board. It commemorates the fact that astronaut John Glenn splashed down just offshore after his historic space flight orbiting the earth in 1962. One of the highlights of Celebrity Beyond is its 4,500-piece art collection, which includes works by travel photographers and international artists. The main cruise port at Charlotte Amalie, St. Thomas, is one of the most popular duty-free shopping meccas in the Caribbean. Virgin Voyages is a well-designed, adults-only cruise line. The small island of Grand Turk is a perfect port of call for those wanting some amazing watersports as part of their Eastern Caribbean cruise. For something more formal, opt for a French-inspired meal at Chartreuse, Pan-Asian dishes at Pacific Rim or Compass Rose, the largest restaurant on the ship. A kayak tour of Fajardo's bioluminescent bay might be a good way to spend your overnight in San Juan. If you find a lower price online, well match it! What's more, with a roughly 2-to-1 passenger-to-crew ratio, service across the ship will be spot on. Even the ports themselves will likely be crowded. CruiseDirect can help you book a trip with the best cruise line for Eastern Caribbean vacations and get the best price, thanks to our low price guarantee. For a pleasant mix of big-city excitement and Spanish Colonial charm, visit the island of Puerto Rico and its exciting capital city, San Juan. Related: Caribbean cruise packing list: What to pack for a tropical sailing. The best eastern Caribbean cruise ports are close and convenient for many people living in the United States, which makes them a tempting choice for someone going on their first cruise. Relax on gorgeous white sand beaches surrounded by crystal clear waters, discover the ancient treasures of the Mayans, or let your cares melt away while relaxing to steel drum melodies. Popular attractions include migrating humpback whales from January through April, the largest cave system in the Caribbean and a variety of historical tours. Related: The best Caribbean cruises for every type of traveler. When it isnt stormy, it might still be a bit warm and sticky for some early in the season. Black Sea Cruises British Isles Cruises Canada / New England Cruises Caribbean Cruises Costa Rica Cruises Cruises to Nowhere Eastern Caribbean Cruises Europe . You can witness the sunset on the hillside as the sky changes colours from orange and red to purple. What's more, shore activities arranged through the cruise line cater to all types of travelers. An attraction that no one can miss is the 3,800-foot Mount Liamuiga, which dominates the center of this small island that is only 69 square miles. The Scarlet Lady also deviates from cruise industry tradition when it comes to onboard entertainment. Princess caters to all kinds of cruisers, from families to couples to solo travelers. The ship also offers a fitness center, shopping venues, rock climbing, a carousel and clubs for kids and teens. Typically disembarking from port cities within the Southeastern U.S., many major cruise lines feature Eastern Caribbean cruises out of Tampa, Ft. Lauderdale, Miami, Galveston, and New Orleans. Cruise ships typically dock on Grand Turk. Abundance of choice: There are more than 40 ways to dine, drink and be entertained on the Icon of the Seas. Visit the CDC website for additional COVID-19 cruise ship health and safety data. Word Reading: Things to Do in Barbados for Cruise Visitors. Visit the CDC website for additional COVID-19 cruise ship health and safety data. It surpasses its sister ship, Symphony of the Seas, as the largest cruise ship in the world. Amber Cove offers a day of sand, sea and watersports in a private beach resort atmosphere as part of Eastern Caribbean cruises. This small but beautiful island has fewer attractions, although visitors are more likely to go because of cruises and for quiet overnight vacations. Back home, everyone else is busy buying turkeys and cranberries and catering to the in-laws. A cruise excursion desk can book charter cruises, catamaran trips, and kayak excursions for your Eastern Caribbean cruise. Upgrade to a mixologist course and create your own cocktail! Disclaimers about ship ratings: A ships Health Rating is based on vessel inspection scores published by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). 9 Best Cruise Lines in the Caribbean | U.S. News Travel There are several nice beaches within easy reach of the port for those who want to chill out. To find out, U.S. News used a methodology that factors in each cruise line's variety, number and percentage of Caribbean itineraries, along with approval ratings among experts and travelers, to compile this list of the best cruise lines sailing to the Caribbean. With colorful 18th-century architecture, azure-blue waters, white sand beaches and a melodic calypso beat, this island nation offers a feast for the senses.