Cruises are perfect for people of all ages. Alternatively, you may sail around the north end of Long Island and then steer southeast to the same waypoint at the Western End of Great Inagua. beach club or water park on Cozumel from around $24. Cruising Guides . If youre retired and can drive to a port, you can likely find an inside cabin to book just a few weeks prior to sailing. Top Activity: Island Tour with Snorkeling, Beaches, Lunch & Tequila Tasting, Other Great Things to Do: Snorkel Boat Tour, ATV Jungle Tour. Visit ancient ruins near Cozumel and Progreso in Mexico, snorkel around the reefs in Belize or Roatan, Honduras; or simply soak up the sun in the Cayman Islands and Jamaica. That can be a real slog. Jamaica has some safety issues in the cities, so if you want Eastern Caribbean cruises typically take in Antigua and Barbuda, Barbados, Dominica, St. Kitts and Nevis, Saint Lucia, and Trinidad and Tobago. Cruisers with children can book a Day Pass to a private Daytime During the day on a cruise, you will either be onboard at sea or exploring a port. We'll run a soft credit check to find special offers, but it wont affect your credit score. Thats because the autumn months are the peak season for hurricanes and tropical storms. 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. Western Caribbean Cruise Guide: Expert tips on ports of call, best One of the greatest aspects of this itinerary is that most of this sailing route takes advantage of favorable winds and currents. Other Packing Essentials in addition to clothing, I recommend packing the above essentials for your cruise. While you are in Mango Creek, ask the taxi driver to take you to one of the local restaurants for breakfast or lunch. The ambassadors are happy to receive a $10 tip for their services. You can spend hours exploring the 5th Avenue They also have exclusive access to CocoCay, their private island in the Bahamas. When winter in your hometown drags on, or the stress of the workweek gets you down, a Caribbean cruise is often just what the doctor ordered to lift the weight of the world from your shoulders and let you escape to a tropical paradise for a few days. The cruise line you choose will dictate the quality of food, onboard amenities, onboard activities, and excursion options. The sun is stronger than you might expect in this part of the world, and you can easily burn during a long day at the beach if you dont apply and reapply plenty of sunscreen. Cruisers can swim, snorkel and scuba dive, of course, but they can also kayak, snuba, Jet Ski, sail and parasail. Roatan can be a bit hectic. Cruisers exploring independently will find plenty of Travelers don't tend to spend much time in Belize City itself, but its a great jumping-off point for all Belize has to offer. The gorgeous island of Grand Cayman offers some unique cruise shore excursions including snorkeling and diving over a sunken WW2 wreck or swimming with stingrays. Dive under the sea, fly above the ocean, and treasure-hunt through the jungle with a cruise to Western Caribbean. They will do anything from decorating a stateroom for a special occasion to providing off-menu items at the dining room. The below list of reasons to take a western Caribbean cruise are why I keep coming back to cruise travel and why you should too. Southern Caribbean cruises tend to attract luxury travelers and repeat cruisers. They often leave from Florida or south Texas. including Mahogany Beach, which is reached by aerial chair lift! is a long stretch of beautiful coral sands and sparkling, crystal-clear water. The majority of the cruise line private islands are located in the Bahamas, and these appear regularly on all Caribbean itineraries. Please view our advertising policy page for more information. Youll definitely hear the reggae beat and Bob Marley tunes everywhere! shops and cantina restaurants in The best Caribbean itineraries for first-time cruisers are often the seven-night Eastern or seven-night Western Caribbean cruises out of Florida home ports, such as Miami, Fort Lauderdale or Port Canaveral (near Orlando). gear and enjoy a refreshing dip surrounded by nature. Plus, escaping the last of winter's wrath at home can be just what the doctor ordered to save your sanity. Even onboard a ship of 4000+ passengers, the dining and stateroom staff memorized our names and preferences. You will also find some of these itineraries commonly combine a visit to the cruise line's private islands in the Bahamas (not in the Western Caribbean). One of the best all-around anchorages is in Governors Creek. When planning a day in port, I consider three things: what I want to eat, if I want to do an excursion, and what activities I cant miss. You can find departures from ports all along the U.S. East Coast, Gulf Coast and Florida. Thats because these islands are farther from U.S. shores, meaning youll need to fly to an island to catch your cruise ship or need more than a weeks vacation to get from Florida all the way south to ports in Aruba or St. Lucia and back. Although you might think they all look like stock photos of white sand beaches with palm trees and blue skies, each island has its own look, culture and vibe. The first few months of the year, known as wave season in the cruise industry, is a time when cruise lines all offer some kind of booking promotion, and you can often find discounted fares or free booking perks on Caribbean cruises. Once you have cleared the southeast corner of Cuba, the passage to Grand Cayman is an easy downwind run in the prevailing trade winds. Cozumel Mexico is an island off the coast of Cancun. Jamaica is a sizeable island and the only way to get a real taste of it is on an Island Tour with a local guide. Book holiday sailings well in advance to find lower fares. Upon landing at Mango Creek, hop into any taxi and the driver will transport and direct you through the different offices you need to visit in Big Creek including: Immigration, Agriculture, Port Officer, and Customs. Youll be hard-pressed to find a Caribbean cruise port that does not offer beach access. Its the perfect combination of sightseeing and activities. Independent Independent Flights are forbidden in these areas because of their historical significance. From Glovers it is best to sail directly to Placentia to complete the clearance process. Western Caribbean Cruise Guide: Expert tips on ports of call, best excursions, when to go and more: Bateman, Scott S.: 9781705573150: Amazon.com: Books Books Travel Caribbean Buy new: $7.95 Get Fast, Free Shipping with Amazon Prime FREE Returns FREE delivery Thursday, January 12 if you spend $25 on items shipped by Amazon Spear fishing is allowed on the southern edge of the reef, while the reefs in the conservation zone offer spectacular viewing. Shopping is a popular diversion, from high-end French stores in Martinique and St. Barts to crafts markets and souvenir shops. Their biggest and newest ships are often deployed to the Caribbean, so you can find all the latest celebrity-backed restaurants, crazy top-deck attractions (like waterslides, climbing walls and roller coaster rides) and expanded cabin choices. Soon after, in mid-May, the graduation parties begin. Plus, there are deals available that bring prices down even lower. There was an error processing your request. Leaving the anchorage at Utila in the dark can be a bit dodgy. Cruise shore excursions include Audubon House and Gardens, Hemingway Home, the Butterfly Conservatory, Trumans Little White House and the amazing Mel Fisher Maritime Museum with its collection of shipwreck treasures. Theyre close to the U.S. and cruise lines use these ports to break up the multiple days at sea needed to sail farther south into the Caribbean proper. Western Caribbean Cruises: Cruise to Western Caribbean | Royal Thats because Caribbean is warm and mostly sunny year-round. Her first cruise was on Carnivals second ship, Carnivale. Both of these passages were good for building our experience with sailing close to the wind and managing currents that flowed in variable directions along the passage. The entrance is easy and we went in and out several times never seeing less than eight feet of water. Look particularly at last-minute options and those first two weeks in December. They all have their charms for different reasons. The channel into Glovers Reef is easily followed in good light. While theres a possibility of tropical storms or hurricanes, the Atlantic hurricane season doesnt peak until late August through October. Relive the movie Cool Runnings with the Montego Bay Bobsled Tour. The biggest decision you have to make is between a pina colada and a strawberry daiquiri. Theres so much to see and do in colorful Key West, so taking a shore excursion is the best way to see it all. Start with these stories: The credit card offers that appear on the website are from credit card companies from which ThePointsGuy.com receives compensation. Shops and attractions will overflow with passengers from other ships and land-based vacationers. Treat yourself to some Blue Mountain coffee beans, said to If you have more questions, comment them below! All the leaves are brown, and the sky is gray When the weather turns cold, you could be California dreamin but doesnt a Caribbean cruise sound so much more relaxing? If you are visiting ports not listed below, I recommend learning about them through travel blogs and vlogs. 3 NIGHT BAHAMAS & PERFECT DAY CRUISE USD 290. We may receive compensation when you click on links to those products. You can find hundreds of cruise options every single month. Improve earnings, maximize rewards and track progress toward dream trips. Star Clippers appeals to sailing enthusiasts with its masted ships, simple entertainment and emphasis on water sports. See what a point or mile is worth with our appraisals of a loyalty programs currency, based on redemption values. The reefs are healthy and are teaming with fish of many species. Book your excursions and things to do in advance so you know what to expect once you arrive at a port. For other Caribbean cruise tips, check out my guide to a Southern Caribbean cruise. Book / Manage Cruise Activities. White sand beaches and crystal-clear turquoise waters are the biggest attractions for most Caribbean cruisers. A cruise is a luxury resorts that travels with you allowing you to see many amazing ports in a short amount of time. If you don't mind spring break crowds, spring is a wonderful time to cruise. Western Caribbean Cruise Guide: Expert tips on ports of call, best For a change of pace, spend a winter cruising from Florida to the Western Caribbean and back. For assistance with your Disney Cruise, please call (800) 951-3532. Cruise to the Western Caribbean and find yourself immersed in bygone eras and pristine natural scenery. Top Activity: ATV Island Tour with Zipline, Animal Sanctuary, and Beach, Other Great Things to Do: Beach Horseback Riding, Customizable Private Tour. Private island and Bahamas stops are common. Worth Reading: Things to Know When You Cruise to Belize. Related: Best Things to do in Mahogany Bay, Isla Roatan. Since its possible to tour the entire island of Cozumel in one day, the best activity is a combo tour that circles the island and includes some of the best local activities such as snorkeling, the national park, and tequila tasting. You'll find two main types of Western Caribbean cruises, and both are fabulous introductions to Caribbean culture and attractions. That's where I learned the meaning of the word "torrential." Find the right card for you. There are free moorings right at the port of George Town and a secure dinghy dock. Cruise excursions are typically more expensive, and there are limited options. The Bahamian ports of Nassau and Freeport, even Floridas Key West, may appear on Caribbean-centric cruises. We find Belize is a wonderful place to host guests. There are many boat trips available in Grand Cayman including catamarans, glass bottom boats and sailboat tours or book a place on the Trolley Roger Train for a scenic tour of Georgetown. The weather in the Caribbean in March, April and May is idyllic, and the seas are likely to be calm. Do yourself a favor and order the Cochinita Pibil tacos when you're in Mexico. It is also an easy place to arrange transportation to other areas of the island. Cruising Compass Advertising Sales: However, if you share the cost of a local taxi with other cruisers, the island has plenty to offer. Stick around town to find cheap drinks at Senor Frogs or shop for souvenirs. No request is too much for the accommodating staff. They are well worth the $50 cost for this service. Cruising Guide to the Western Caribbean - Blue Water Sailing Youll find everything from gorgeous beaches and diving destinations to lush rainforests and flowing waterfalls. Local taxis will take you to some of the archaeological sites in the Just five or six of the Caribbean's thousands of islands are included on weeklong Western Caribbean itineraries: Jamaica and Mexico, plus Grand Cayman and, for a few cruise lines, private beach areas in Haiti (Royal Caribbean's Labadee) and the Dominican Republic (namely the Casa de Campo resort in the La Romana province). Or turn up the excitement factor with adrenaline-pumping activities and attractions in the Caribbean's rainforests and mysterious caverns when you cruise to Western Caribbean. 7-Night Western Caribbean Cruise from Port - Disney Cruise Line Exiting Georgetown via Hog Key Cut to the southeast of Georgetown is a neat little adventure. Worth Reading: 20 Things to Do in Ocho Rios, Jamaica for Cruisers. Our experience is that Belize tops the BVI as a destination for sailing in sheltered waters surrounded by amazing reefs and other natural wonders. Take a City Tour and learn the history of Progreso or visit the historic city of Merida with its 500-year-old cathedral and plenty of shops. Pick up a delicious Caribbean Rum Cake as a souvenir. In total, we have spent over 10 weeks cruising Belize and there are still numerous cays and anchorages that we have not explored! While many cruise lines operation in the Caribbean, my favorite is Royal Caribbean, hands down. Cruise Hive was established back in 2008 and among the earliest blogs in the industry. Give yourself plenty of time to play on a long voyage, so you can get to know the character and excitement of the Western Caribbean. These lines cater to all ages, including older couples and families with children. Since CocoCay is Royals Island, all excursions and activities must be booked directly. Here, every day is a sun day with an all-you-can-swim buffet of seven unique pools the most ever on a cruise. Summer cruises in the Caribbean make that easy with plenty of options, both on board and in port. Cunard's guide to the Caribbean - Cunard cruises Hike through Mayan ruins in Tulum, Mexico, before diving into deep blue cenotes aquamarine sinkholes surrounded by limestone caves, perfect for swimming and snorkeling. The Dzibanche Mayan Ruins are one of the few sites where Enjoy Amazing Food, Music and Culture. Royal Caribbean is knowing for having the largest and most innovative ships. Between these port guides, cruise line suggestion, and packing tips, planning a Western Caribbean cruise will be a breeze. If you follow this guide for Western Caribbean cruise tips and planning, you are setting yourself up for a perfect vacation. This site does not include all credit card companies or all available credit card offers. The site is so rich in artifacts that archaeologists are still uncovering new finds. If you prefer childless cruising during the holidays, you can choose an adults-only cruise line like Viking. There are plenty of beautiful beaches nearby, With the right weather, heading straight to Key West or the Dry Tortugas is the preferred route. 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. Get to know more about the area with a City Walking Tour or opt for a Culinary Tour which explores Mexican history and cuisine with tastings! Most cruise lines including Carnival, Celebrity, Princess , Disney, Royal Caribbean, Holland America, Norwegian Cruise Line and Viking Ocean Cruises all feature Western Caribbean itineraries. The freshwater cenote is super clear, making it the perfect place for a dive, snorkel or swim. Compare the cost in points or miles to cash, and see which option is best. Thanks to Norwegian's freedom and flexibility, guests of all sizes can experience the best vacation ever. This buggy tour I took during my recent trip is a great way to do all of this! Although, there may be a short wait at one or two of these stops, the officials are always courteous and friendly. Handmade arts and The easy answer is whenever it suits you. Ancient sites dating back to 300 A.D. including impressive pyramids can be found in Mexico's Cozumel, Costa Maya, Tulum and Chichen Itza. This tour will allow you to leave Cozumel feeling like you saw everything. Spend your day exploring this historic site, just over an hour from the port there's also a cenote cavern nearby if you're uparagraphCopy for some diving. That adds up to more choices during this time of year. The most popular experience on the island is the Thrill Waterpark that features the tallest waterslide in North America. HOMEWARD BOUND 7-Night Western Caribbean Cruise from Port Canaveral with Pixar Day at Sea View Staterooms . Independently run tours are often more affordable, have more options, and have a more local presence. I had no idea it could rain that hard in Cozumel, a desert island. My first big international trip was even a Mediterranean cruise. Stroll 2 blocks to the shops, art galleries and eateries along Duval Street or take the Conch Tour Train and enjoy the commentary as you pass all the historic sites and attractions. As mentioned above, there are many negative stereotypes about cruising. If youve sailed before, theres always some destination youve never visited or an activity you havent tried. Find the right card for you. No matter what, you will find your favorite Western Caribbean cruise port. If you want to stick to one activity in Roatan, this beach horseback riding tour looks super fun. This compensation may impact how and where products appear on this site (including, for example, the order in which they appear). Opting for a southern Caribbean itinerary opens up the likes of Aruba, St. Vincent and the Grenadines, Curacao and Martinique, while western Caribbean routes could see you step ashore in Jamaica, Mexico . If you want slightly cooler temperatures and lower humidity for a more comfortable time adventuring outdoors, December to April is the perfect season to lace up your hiking boots and wander through the lush jungles of Puerto Costa Maya and discover the Kohunlich ruins. Luxury lovers should look at the smaller ships of the Seabourn, Silversea and Regent Seven Seas fleets for opulent accommodations and fine dining while sailing the tropics. Western Caribbean Cruise itineraries transport you in luxury to exotic tropical destinations and off-the-beaten-path places such as Belize City, Roatan and Progreso. Despite high fares, summer cruise pricing and crowd levels stack up favorably against most land-based vacations. The below tips are other tidbits Ive learned over the years that can make your trip even more enjoyable. . authentic Mexican cuisine in the local town or head to the beach. Go duty-free shopping or visit be the best in the world! For food, pick one lunch spot or snack that you want to try when youre on shore. Be aware that spring break is high season for travel disruptions caused by peak demand. The sailings depart from several U.S. home ports from Galveston, Texas, to Boston so many Americans can drive to their departure ports and avoid paying for airfare. Walk along the Turtle River Park or visit Shaw Park Gardens and Konoko Falls. Publisher: George Day Slow-cooked meats have a storied history in Central and South America, and stew chicken is arguably Belize's greatest contribution to the tradition. Why cruise to the Caribbean? The islands themselves tend to be more exclusive, with fewer ships visiting on any given day. Grand Cayman offers incredibly clear waters, perfect for spotting sea turtles and stingrays during a swim or snorkel. (Photo by Stephen Frink/Getty Images) Sun, sand and sea are what most travelers want when they book a cruise to the Caribbean. For our passage, the winds were less than 15 knots with seas less than three feet for most of the trip. 3 NIGHT BAHAMAS & PERFECT DAY CRUISE USD 282. As with the Western Caribbean, seven-night Eastern Caribbean cruises are the most common itinerary length. Sun, sand and sea are what most travelers want when they book a cruise to the Caribbean. Cruising guide to the Caribbean - Wander By Sail A guide to sailing the Caribbean The Caribbean is one of the most popular cruising destinations in the world. A wonderful Kirklands grocery store is walking distance from the dinghy dock. Growing up, some of my favorite family vacation memories are on cruises. Hike through Mayan ruins in Tulum, Mexico, before diving into deep blue cenotes aquamarine sinkholes surrounded by limestone caves, perfect for swimming and snorkeling. Visit the Altun Ha Mayan ruins, go river tubing and spelunking in caves, zip line through the jungle or go snorkeling or diving along Belizes famous barrier reef (the northern hemisphere's largest). However, if youd 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. excursions in Puerto Costa Maya. If you plan a springtime Caribbean cruise, have a backup plan, including travel insurance, in case your travel itinerary gets rearranged at the last minute. Typically served over rice and beans, stew chicken is coated in spicy, bright-red achiote paste and simmered with onions in liquid often stock or coconut milk until it's falling-off-the-bone tender. A fascinating Plantation Tour allows you to sample honey, fresh pineapple and raw sugarcane! Norwegian Epic cruise ship to sail out of Port Canaveral this winter From Utila, the offshore Belizean atoll of Glovers Reef is just 60 miles to the northwest. Go snorkeling, swim with dolphins or enjoy sailing on a private catamaran tour. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. It is an excellent place to find whale sharks during the season and several reefs are a short dinghy ride from the anchorage. Active travelers will find plenty of hiking, biking, zip lining and ATV tours. 25 BEST Western Caribbean Cruises 2023 (Prices - Cruise Critic Picture yourself shopping for unique gifts after your snorkel excursion or before your spa appointment instead of slogging through slushy mall parking lots with the tip of your nose threatening to freeze, and I think you'll agree. Shore excursions in Costa Maya are mainly focused on sandy beaches and watersports in the clear blue Caribbean Sea. Improve earnings, maximize rewards and track progress toward dream trips. For assistance with your Disney Cruise, please call (800) 951-3532. Otherwise, book a tour to the best spots or for a guided activity. And families discover adventure for all ages at Surfside, a stay-all-day destination right onboard that opens the floodgates on family fun. Have your fill of fresh seafood and zesty tacos, then relax with the tropical cocktail of your choice. These memories involve playing in the kids club, eating a huge family dinner with unlimited food, visiting many great ports, and spending time with loved ones. The Dragon's Tail Coaster is the perfect roller coaster ride for thrill seekers and adventure lovers. Ships sail at or near capacity. 7-Night Very Merrytime Western Caribbean Cruise from Port Canaveral . We may receive compensation when you click on links to those products. If you like the idea of a mixed tour, but the above doesnt appeal to you, this customizable private tour is great! crafts, local pottery and stunning underwater photos by Shawn Jackson make fabulous When you're ready to come up for air, take flight on a massive zip line over Labadee's shimmering coastlines in Haiti. Turn back time as you wander the breathtaking ancient ruins of Copan, a Maya city that dates back nearly a millennium. This compensation may impact how and where products appear on this site (including, for example, the order in which they appear). Roatan is a small island in Honduras. Terms apply to the offers listed on this page. Reserved for Disney Cruise Line Guests, this private island paradise is home to white-sand beaches and recreation for all ages. The shortest options are four nights, typically visiting only Grand Turk or Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic. Swimsuits and warm-weather clothing should top your Caribbean cruise packing list, but don't forget the sunscreen. It offers six- and seven-night Caribbean cruises from the late fall until early spring. Youll have options like splash zones for the little ones, monster slides for the adventurers and kids clubs for all ages. Immerse yourself in Mayan history at the ruins in Tulum, Mexico. You can unsubscribe at any time. Even if a hurricane doesn't cause you grief, rain might. The classic Western Caribbean itinerary visits Mexico (typically Cozumel or Costa Maya), Jamaica, Grand Cayman and a cruise lines private island, which is typically in the Bahamas. Check here before booking an award fare. My recent cruise was on the Harmony of the Seas which is the second largest cruise ship in the world. The best time to cruise to the Caribbean - The Points Guy Every day you wake up to warm weather and sunny skies (well, most of the time) and a new destination promising white sand beaches, fun activities and memories to be made.
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