Eastern Caribbean Cruises

Discover the Enchantment of the Eastern Caribbean on a Cruise

The Eastern Caribbean is a tropical paradise known for its crystal-clear waters, white-sand beaches, and vibrant local culture. With its stunning islands like St. Thomas and St. Martin, a cruise to the Eastern Caribbean is an idyllic getaway that offers relaxation, adventure, and gorgeous scenery. Fun fact: The Eastern Caribbean is home to some of the world’s most beautiful reefs, making it a diving and snorkeling haven! Whether you’re looking to lounge on the beach, enjoy water sports, or explore charming villages, cruising the Eastern Caribbean is an experience like no other.

Top Harbours in the Eastern Caribbean

When you embark on a cruise through the Eastern Caribbean, you’ll have the opportunity to visit some of its most captivating harbours. Here’s a look at five must-visit destinations:

Key Ports Visited Before or After Your Cruise

In addition to the delightful harbours within the Eastern Caribbean, cruisers often explore several key ports before or after their journey:

Best Times to Cruise the Eastern Caribbean

The ideal time to cruise the Eastern Caribbean is between December and April when temperatures are warm but pleasant, typically ranging from 20°C to 30°C. This is also when most tourists flock to the region, ensuring lively ports filled with activities and entertainment. If you’re looking for a quieter, more budget-friendly experience, consider cruising from late April to early June or September to early November. During these shoulder months, the weather remains warm, with daytime temperatures hovering around 25°C, but you may encounter fewer crowds.

Cruise Costs Overview for the Eastern Caribbean

For a cruise to the Eastern Caribbean, expect the following price ranges: A 1-week cruise usually costs around $1,200 to $3,000 for standard packages, while luxury cruises can range from $4,000 to $8,500. If considering a 2-week cruise, you may pay approximately $2,500 to $6,000 for regular cruises and $9,000 or more for luxury options. Typically, the best deals can be found during the shoulder months (April to early June or late September to early November). Dining in the region tends to be fairly affordable, with meals averaging between $20 and $50 per person, while drinks generally cost around $7 to $15 each.

Major Cruise Lines Offering Eastern Caribbean Itineraries

• Princess Cruises
  With a fleet of 17 ships, Princess Cruises has 9 sailing to the Eastern Caribbean, including Grand Princess and Enchanted Princess. Most cruises depart from Fort Lauderdale or San Juan. Known for their exceptional service and onboard activities, Princess Cruises provides an unforgettable experience for families and couples alike.
• MSC Cruises
  With a fleet of 23 ships, MSC also has 9 offering itineraries to the Eastern Caribbean, notably MSC Virtuosa and MSC Seaside. Departures predominantly happen from Miami or Fort de France. MSC is recognised for its family-friendly cruising experience, offering a vibrant atmosphere, diverse dining options, and engaging entertainment for all ages.
• Holland America Line
  Holland America operates 11 ships, with 8 sailing to the Eastern Caribbean, including Eurodam and Zuiderdam. Common departure ports include Fort Lauderdale or Miami. With an emphasis on cultural enrichment, Holland America offers immersive destination experiences alongside gourmet dining onboard.
• Royal Caribbean Cruises
  With a fleet of 29 ships, Royal Caribbean features 18 that visit the Eastern Caribbean, such as Brilliance of the Seas and Rhapsody of the Seas. Departures often occur from San Juan or Miami. Royal Caribbean is known for its innovative ship design and fantastic onboard activities ranging from thrilling entertainment to relaxation options.
• Norwegian Cruise Line
  With 20 ships in its fleet, Norwegian has 14 that head to the Eastern Caribbean, with Norwegian Jewel and Norwegian Escape leading the charge. Most usually depart from Miami or New York. Norwegian’s freestyle cruising concept allows guests to enjoy unparalleled flexibility with their dining and entertainment choices, ensuring every experience is unique.

Luxury and Small Ship Options

• Explora Journeys
  Currently operating a fleet of 2 ships, both EXPLORA I and EXPLORA II offer itineraries to the Eastern Caribbean. Departing from Miami or San Juan, Explora is focused on providing immersive, luxurious cruise experiences that embrace each destination’s culture while offering exquisite amenities onboard.
• Oceania Cruises
  With a fleet of 8 ships, Oceania operates 6 that visit the Eastern Caribbean, including Vista and Insignia. Departures commonly occur from Miami or Civitavecchia (Rome). Oceania is celebrated for its culinary excellence and small-ship feel, ensuring a close-knit experience among fellow travelers.
• Silversea
  With a fleet of 13 ships, Silversea offers 5 that sail to the Eastern Caribbean, with Silver Shadow and Silver Ray among them. Departures often take place from Fort Lauderdale or Bridgetown. Silversea is synonymous with ultra-luxury cruising, providing attentive service and opulent accommodations tailored to discerning travelers.
• Seabourn
  Seabourn operates a total of 6 ships, with 3 that offer Eastern Caribbean itineraries, including Seabourn Ovation and Seabourn Sojourn. Departures typically occur from Bridgetown or Philipsburg. Known for its all-suite accommodations and unparalleled service, Seabourn ensures an extraordinary voyage experience.
• Regent Seven Seas Cruises
  Regent features a fleet of 6 ships, with 4 offering itineraries in the Eastern Caribbean, notably Seven Seas Grandeur and Seven Seas Mariner. Departures generally happen from Miami or San Juan. Regent is dedicated to providing all-inclusive luxury experiences with a focus on fine dining and bespoke excursions.

Alternative Regions for Your Next Cruise Adventure

If the Eastern Caribbean excites you, consider these alternative regions for your next cruise:

• Western Caribbean: Offering stunning beaches and vibrant cultures, the Western Caribbean is ideal for those looking to mix relaxation with adventure. Enjoy snorkeling or diving in Cozumel and relish local cuisine across the islands.
• Southern Caribbean: Experience the allure of island hopping through the blissful beaches of islands like Aruba and Curacao. This region is known for its crystal-clear waters and vibrant cultures, making it a perfect alternative for cruisers.
• Alaska: For those seeking something different, a cruise to Alaska provides breathtaking landscapes, stunning natural beauty, and unique wildlife experiences. Experience glacial fjords and the charming towns of the North for an unforgettable adventure.
• South Pacific: Encompassing paradise islands like Fiji and Tahiti, the South Pacific showcases stunning lagoons and pristine beaches, offering an idyllic escape for sun-seekers and nature lovers alike.
• Adriatic Sea: Experience the sparkling waters and rich history of the Adriatic Sea by visiting coastal gems like Dubrovnik and Venice. This region provides a combination of cultural heritage and breathtaking scenery for those craving a European escape.

Set sail for the tropical paradise of the Eastern Caribbean! With multiple departure ports and captivating islands waiting to be explored, book your cruise today with CruiseAway for a memorable journey through this sun-kissed paradise!