San Juan, Puerto Rico
San Juan is popular for eastern Caribbean cruises. It's a compact colonial city boasting some of the most beautiful colonial architecture and salsa bars outside Havana. It's the largest cruise port of the Caribbean. In fact, the southern, as well as eastern cruises, begin here. San Juan has three magnificent seaside forts with dungeons, walkable ramparts, and tunnels. The cobblestone streets of the old town are lined with churches, pastel-shaded mansions, murals, cafes, galleries, bars and so much more. While you are here, book a taxi to visit El Yunque, a rainforest featuring 400 species of trees and plants. It's also home to many exotic mammals and birds.
Best Time To Visit
The best time to cruise to San Juan for a cruise is mid-April to June. Spring is also a great time to visit since the weather is always pleasant. Fort-de-france, Martinique
Martinique is an overseas region of France. The culture here reflects a distinctive blend of French and West Indian influences. Fort-de-France the largest city in the French West Indies has a colorful culture and fast-paced life. When you start your cruise, do visit the Fort St. Louis Park in La Savane. Grand Marche in Fort-de-France is also one of the best places to visit. It's a 19th-century bazaar where you will find fabrics, flowers, spices, and handicrafts. If you would like beaches, Plage Anse d'Arlet is the best one to be at. It has golden sand and there are bars all over the beach.
Best Time To Visit
Fort-de-France welcomes cruises throughout the year. The peak season starts from October going all the way to October.Tortola, British Virgin Islands
If you ask for one word to describe the British Virgin Islands, that would be posh. It is home to villas, restaurants, resorts, and lots of tourist attractions. Tortola is among the best places to cruise. The oleander, shimmer beaches, quaint towns, hibiscus mountainsides all make it a wonderful place to be at. You may choose to charter a boat or take a ferry to discover the island and its neighboring islands.
Best Time To Visit
Travel to Tortola is from September to November. The participation is at its peak during the fall months. So choose a time before the crowd gets wild.Philipsburg, St. Maarten
St. Maarten is known for its beautiful blend of culture. It is home to 120 different nationalities and it's governed by two countries France and the Netherlands. The cruise to Philipsburg is going to peaceful since its home to a handful of secluded beaches. You will also find one of the best cuisines here to tantalize your taste buds. As your cruise begins, you will be quickly charmed by all sides of this island. Great Bay beach and Macho beach are two of the best spots for snorkeling. During your time at the port, do taste the local seafood.
Best Time To Visit
The months of May and June and between November and December. There are only selected weeks when hotels have the best rates. Make sure you do some research before the reservation to find great deals.Barbados
Barbados is everything you would ever want from a Caribbean island. The pink sand is just soothing to the eyes. Its days are warm whereas nights are calming. The island has a rich history, which begs to be explored. It is home to several heritage centers and museums to captivate its visitors. If you seek more than just a day to relax on a sandy beach, do take a tour to its sugar cane hills and hike to wildlife. Follow the trail of the bougainvillea blossoms or spend a day in the rainforest ravine, choose any activity you like to start your travel.
Best Time To Visit
Cruise Barbados between July and November. Yes, these months fall within the hurricane seasons but don't worry, these weather stems hardly hit the island.St. Kitts
St. Kitts is the island where the Atlantic and the Pacific Oceans meet. You will feel that when you are on the ground. To experience the Atlantic waves, visit the north frigate bay. It's a wonderful place if those who love nature. Some even say this place is perfect for a laidback Caribbean vacation. The waterfalls, rainforests, and sand all make wonderful scenery for postcards. If you happen to take a cruise here and visit the circus square marketplace, do shop for fresh mangos and guava. St. Kitts is most known for its hiking spots and natural splendor.
Best Time To Visit
Travel to St. Kitts is in May and June. During this time period, the hotel rates are low which lures travelers from around the world. During winters, the crowd is thin. Peak season begins in December through April. You will find lots of tourists during the peak season. This is also the time to witness the famous carnival. Grand Truck, Turks and Caicos
Don't be fooled by the name, it's not as grand as it sounds. But you won't be disappointed because it's packed with historic charm and breathtaking beauty. The island retains its look from 40 years ago. Explore the island outpost full of picture-perfect beaches, grassy trails, and some old windmills. There are so many landside attractions to explore starting from Salt Salina, Lighthouse Park, and the Old Prison. The real beauty lies underwater. Do explore its beautiful coral reefs stretching from the coastline to the vertical wall offshore. The best part is it's home to lots of uncrowded beaches near the cays where you will have the chance to encounter stingray.
Best Time To Visit
The best time to explore the beauty of Grand Turk is between May and October. The weather during this time is sunny. This island however has tropical weather throughout the year. It's going to be hot during May and October.Nassau, The Bahamas
How can we forget Nassau? It's perfect for soaking, swimming, and sightseeing, of course. It's among the most popular cruise destinations in the world. Culture and history are pouring. There was a time when this island was the pirate's heaven. As you explore the historical streets, and colonial fortresses, it tells the story of the past. When it comes to maritime adventure, this place is perfect for swimming with the stingrays, dolphins, and spotting colorful coral. Do explore Paradise Island, it's full of luxury. Grab a pina colada at the Marine village and if you would like to see hammerhead sharks, visit Predator Lagoon. It's truly home to paradise and you will never run out of activities to do in Nassau.
Best Time To Visit
The best time to travel to Nassau is from December to mid-April. This is going to be the peak season. Don't worry about the temperature, it's great throughout the year. Do watch out for hurricane season which starts from June and lasts till November.
Getting There
Embarking on an Eastern Caribbean cruise is a hassle-free adventure, starting from various well-connected ports in the United States, such as Miami, Fort Lauderdale, or Port Canaveral. These cruises set sail, cutting through the vast Atlantic Ocean, and in no time, you're amidst the paradise isles that make up the Eastern Caribbean.
As your ship approaches the crystal-clear Caribbean waters, each island's port has its unique welcome. Places like Philipsburg, St. Maarten, and Charlotte Amalie, St. Thomas boast deep harbors, allowing large cruise ships to dock with ease. These ports are like gateways to the islands, designed for smooth disembarkation, making your transition from the sea to shore excursions seamless. Whether you're a lover of vibrant cultures, pristine beaches, or historic landmarks, your journey through the Eastern Caribbean begins the moment you step off the gangway.
The Perfect Time for an Eastern Caribbean Cruise
When planning an Eastern Caribbean cruise, choosing the right time to embark can significantly enhance your cruise experience. The Eastern Caribbean islands boast a warm, tropical climate year-round, making them a fantastic destination for cruising no matter the season. However, each period offers different advantages for cruisers.
Cruising during the peak season, which runs from December to April, means escaping the cold of the north and enjoying sunny, dry days with temperatures comfortably around 70-80°F. This is perfect for cruisers looking to hop between pristine beaches and indulge in outdoor exploration. However, cruising in this high season also brings higher prices and crowded ports, as it's a popular time for many to visit the Caribbean.
For cruisers seeking fewer crowds and better deals, the months of May to June are ideal. Cruising in this period allows you to catch great weather with a bit of a price break and less hustle and bustle at the ports. However, it's important to be mindful of the hurricane season, which runs from June to November, particularly from August to October. Cruising in the off-season can offer perks like cheaper fares and fewer tourists, but there's also the possibility of encountering stormy weather.
For those who prioritize guaranteed sunshine without the stress of crowded ports, booking your Eastern Caribbean cruise in the late spring might be the best option. This period provides cruisers with an opportunity to enjoy the islands' beauty with more tranquility and less competition for the best spots on the beaches or at popular tourist attractions.
Why Book a Cruise to the Eastern Caribbean?
Wondering why an Eastern Caribbean cruise should be your next vacation pick? Well, it's not just a holiday; it's a doorway to cost-effective, hassle-free, and diverse experiences. First off, the value for money is incredible. Your accommodation, travel, and meals come in one package, eliminating the stress of planning and unexpected costs. It's your hotel, restaurant, and transportation all rolled into one!
But there's more! Imagine waking up to a new stunning view each morning as you effortlessly island-hop, exploring multiple cultures and breathtaking landscapes. Cruises offer unique coastal views that you won't get from the sky, and the photo opportunities are endless.
Plus, some hidden gems are more accessible by sea, giving you exclusive access to untouched beaches and secluded paradises. And the convenience factor? Unbeatable. Unpack once, and that's it! No checking in and out of hotels or catching flights; your room travels with you.
From all-you-can-eat buffets to Broadway-style shows onboard activities to shore excursions, an Eastern Caribbean cruise is a microcosm of adventures, offering something for everyone without the fuss of logistics. So, why wait? Dive into the ease and excitement of cruise travel!
Experience the Flavors of the Eastern Caribbean
Imagine the warmth of the sun on your skin, the sound of waves, and a plate full of vibrant flavors in front of you. That's the Eastern Caribbean experience! The cuisine here is a sunny paradise for your taste buds, mixing African, Spanish, French, and Dutch influences.
One must-try is the "Conch Fritters" - think tender seafood meets the perfect crispy exterior. And if you find yourself in St. Maarten, the roadside barbecue called "Lolo" is where every flavor celebrates. Here's a pro tip: ask for Johnny Cakes!
For a refreshing treat, sip on the region's famous rum punch. Each island has its unique twist, but the kick is a constant. Also, don't miss the chance to dine at an authentic beach shack. Nothing beats fresh-caught seafood seasoned with local spices by the water.
Your cruise may offer excellent dining, but the real culinary adventure begins when you step ashore. Be bold with your choices; it's a flavor fiesta waiting to happen!
Immerse Yourself in Eastern Caribbean Culture
When you set foot in the Eastern Caribbean, you step into a world where every tradition tells a story. The culture is a colorful mosaic, with influences from Africa, Europe, and the indigenous peoples.
What's not to miss? The vibrant festivals! If your timing's right, you might just catch the pulsating rhythms of Carnival, celebrated on many islands. Picture streets bursting with colorful costumes, calypso music, and the irresistible urge to dance.
And the music scene? It's the heartbeat of the islands. From the soulful strains of reggae to the lively beats of soca, your feet won't stop moving.
Remember, the Eastern Caribbean is a place of sharing - stories, food, and laughter. Join a local community potluck or 'cook-up' if you can. It's the real-deal cultural immersion.
So, are you ready to dive deep into this cultural paradise? There's a warm welcome waiting for you!
Ready to Book Your Eastern Caribbean Cruise?
So, we've journeyed through the highlights of what makes the Eastern Caribbean a treasure trove of vacation wonders. Imagine days filled with golden sunshine on pristine beaches, followed by exploration of historical wonders, and nights alive with vibrant cultural festivities. Your taste buds are in for a treat, too, with unique flavors that capture the local zest for life.
But there's more to an Eastern Caribbean cruise than meets the eye. It's the unexpected little joys - the spontaneous dance lessons, the off-the-beaten-path eateries, and the starlit beach strolls. Not to forget the convenience of unpacking once and waking up in a new island paradise every day!
Why wait for some time when the adventure of a lifetime is calling your name? It's about time you answered. Book your Eastern Caribbean cruise now and let the islands enchant you. The rhythms of the Caribbean await!