Caribbean Cruises

Discover the Enchantment of the Caribbean on a Cruise

The Caribbean, a tropical paradise made up of over 7,000 stunning islands and cays, beckons cruisers with its crystal-clear waters, vibrant culture, and stunning landscapes. A cruise to the Caribbean is one of the best ways to explore this picturesque region, allowing you to visit multiple islands without the hassle of packing and unpacking. Did you know that the Caribbean is home to some of the world’s most beautiful beaches, including the famous Seven Mile Beach in Grand Cayman and Eagle Beach in Aruba? With endless opportunities for relaxation, adventure, and cultural exploration, a Caribbean cruise is truly an unforgettable experience!

Top Harbours to Explore in the Caribbean

While cruising the Caribbean, these five harbours provide gateways to unforgettable experiences:

Essential Insights for a Caribbean Cruise

The best time to visit the Caribbean is typically from December to April, as temperatures are pleasantly warm, averaging between 24°C and 30°C. This is considered the peak season, when the islands are bustling with tourists, fun events, and festivals. If you prefer fewer crowds and lower prices, consider cruising during the shoulder months of May to June or November, when temperatures are slightly warmer and range from 25°C to 32°C. However, keep in mind that hurricane season runs from June to November, so be mindful of potential weather disruptions during those months.

Cruise Pricing Overview for the Caribbean

Wondering about the costs associated with cruising the Caribbean? A 1-week cruise typically ranges from $1,200 to $3,500 for standard options and $4,500 to $9,000 for luxury offerings. If you’re considering a longer, 2-week cruise, expect prices of $2,500 to $5,500 for regular cruises and $9,000 or more for luxury packages. The cheapest options are generally available in late April to early June and in September, while peak season prices can soar during the winter and holiday months. Dining in the Caribbean can run around $15 to $40 for a meal and $5 to $10 for drinks, depending on where you choose to eat.

Major Cruise Lines Offering Caribbean Adventures

• Carnival Cruise Line
  Carnival boasts a large fleet of 27 ships, with 22 offering itineraries to the Caribbean, including Carnival Venezia and Carnival Sunrise. Departing most often from Miami or Port Canaveral, Carnival is known for its fun, family-friendly atmosphere and exciting onboard activities, ensuring guests have a thrilling cruise experience.
• Royal Caribbean Cruises
  With a fleet of 29 ships, Royal Caribbean has 23 vessels that cruise the Caribbean, including Freedom of the Seas and Jewel of the Seas. Most cruises begin in Fort Lauderdale or Miami. Royal Caribbean is distinguished by its innovative ship design, offering thrilling experiences like surf simulators and rock climbing walls alongside world-class entertainment.
• MSC Cruises
  MSC has a fleet of 23 ships, with 9 travelling to the Caribbean. Notable ships include MSC Virtuosa and MSC Divina. Departures typically take place from Miami or Port Canaveral. MSC is lauded for its elegant European flair and unique dining experiences, making it a sophisticated choice for cruisers seeking a taste of the Mediterranean in the Caribbean.
• Princess Cruises
  With 17 ships, Princess Cruises features 12 offering Caribbean itineraries, including Caribbean Princess and Grand Princess. Departing from Fort Lauderdale or Port Canaveral, Princess is celebrated for its immersive experiences and shore excursions that allow guests to discover the local culture while indulging in premium dining options.
• Holland America Line
  Holland America operates a fleet of 11 ships, with 9 visiting the Caribbean, including Eurodam and Zuiderdam. Departures usually occur from Fort Lauderdale or Miami. Holland America is known for its focus on cultural discovery, pairing extensive itineraries with enriching onboard programming and excellent dining options.

Luxury and Small Ship Options

• Explora Journeys
  With a fleet of 2 ships, Explora has both EXPLORA II and EXPLORA I visiting the Caribbean. Departures often occur from Miami or San Juan. This luxury cruise line is known for its emphasis on sustainable travel and immersive cultural experiences that allow guests to engage meaningfully with each destination visited.
• Oceania Cruises
  Oceania features a fleet of 8 ships, 6 of which head to the Caribbean; notable vessels include Vista and Insignia. Departures primarily occur from Miami or Bridgetown. Oceania is recognised for its refined dining experiences and destination-focused approach, allowing cruisers to delve deeply into the local cultures and culinary traditions of the Caribbean.
• Silversea
  With a fleet of 13 ships, Silversea has 5 visiting the Caribbean, including Silver Shadow and Silver Ray. Departures often take place from Bridgetown or Fort Lauderdale. Silversea is known for its ultra-luxury offerings, providing intimate, personalised service to ensure that guests enjoy an exceptional experience throughout their journey.
• Regent Seven Seas Cruises
  Regent offers a fleet of 6 ships with 4 visiting the Caribbean, particularly Seven Seas Grandeur and Seven Seas Mariner. These cruises generally depart from Miami or San Juan, and Regent is celebrated for its all-inclusive luxury travel experience, allowing guests to enjoy fine dining, top-tier service, and enriching shore excursions.
• Seabourn
  Seabourn operates 6 ships, with 3 offering Caribbean itineraries, including Seabourn Ovation and Seabourn Sojourn. Departures typically occur from Bridgetown or Philipsburg. Seabourn provides an intimate, ultra-luxury experience characterised by personalised service and exclusive excursions tailored to discerning travellers.

Alternative Regions for Your Caribbean Cruise

If the Caribbean has captured your interest, consider these alternative regions for your next cruise adventure:

• Adriatic Sea: Enjoy picturesque coastlines and historic towns like Dubrovnik and Split. This region offers a blend of stunning views and rich cultural experiences, perfect for those seeking adventure and exploration.
• Alaska: For those drawn to outdoor wonders, Alaska showcases spectacular glaciers and diverse wildlife. It’s an entirely different experience that combines breathtaking scenery with the chance to witness nature in its purest form.
• Amalfi Coast: Known for its dramatic cliffs and charming villages, the Amalfi Coast is an enchanting destination where cruisers can experience Italian culture and indulge in delicious cuisine.
• Amazon River: For the adventurous soul, an Amazon River cruise delves into the lush rainforests and vibrant ecosystems of South America. Experience wildlife, visit indigenous communities, and taste the rich flavors of the Amazon region.
• Western Mediterranean: Experience the rich history and culture of ancient civilizations while enjoying stunning coastal views. With iconic locations like Barcelona and Nice, the Western Mediterranean offers art, architecture, and luxurious relaxation.

Ready for your Caribbean adventure? Book your dream cruise with CruiseAway today and set sail for an unforgettable journey filled with sun, sand, and relaxation!