Eastern Caribbean Cruises

Experience the Enchantment of the Eastern Caribbean with CruiseAway

The **Eastern Caribbean** is a tropical paradise renowned for its crystal-clear waters, golden beaches, and vibrant culture. A cruise through this stunning region offers a relaxing way to explore multiple islands, each with its unique charm and experiences. The Eastern Caribbean is home to some of the most inviting islands, including St. Thomas, Antigua, and Barbados, where you can soak in the sun and embrace the mellow island lifestyle. Fun fact: the Eastern Caribbean is known for the famous **Carnival** celebrations, which highlight local music, dance, and colourful parades—it’s a vibrant spectacle that embodies the cultural heritage of the islands!

Must-Visit Harbours in the Eastern Caribbean

When cruising in the Eastern Caribbean, there are numerous beautiful harbours to explore. Here are five not-to-miss destinations:

• San Juan, Puerto Rico: The capital city is rich in history and culture, boasting stunning Spanish colonial architecture. As your cruise ship docks, visit **Old San Juan**, where you can stroll the cobblestone streets and discover **San Felipe del Morro**, a historic fortress overlooking the sea. Insider tip: Grab a local coffee at one of the nearby cafes to start your day right!
• Philipsburg, St. Maarten: This lively port town is popular for its shopping and beautiful beaches. After docking, enjoy lounging on **Great Bay Beach**, or try water sports like paddleboarding and snorkelling. Don’t miss the chance to shop for duty-free items along **Front Street**! Pro tip: Visit the famous **Boardwalk** for stunning sea views while enjoying a meal or treat!
• Bridgetown, Barbados: This UNESCO World Heritage site is vibrant and distinctive. Explore the historic **Garrison Savannah**, the location of an old battery and signal station. You can also unwind on the stunning **Crane Beach**. Insider advice: Don’t miss sampling local dishes, particularly the flying fish, which is a delicacy in Barbados!
• Castries, St. Lucia: Known for its stunning landscape, Castries is a gateway to the beautiful **Pitons**. Relax on the beautiful beaches or visit the enchanting **Pigeon Island National Park** for some hiking with incredible views. Travel tip: Don’t forget to shop for local crafts and souvenirs in the **Castries Market** for a taste of local artistry!
• St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands: With breathtaking views and gorgeous beaches, this island is popular among cruisers. Visit **Magens Bay** for swimming and sunbathing, or explore **Blackbeard’s Castle** for a taste of history. Pro tip: Take the **Skyride to Paradise Point** for stunning panoramic views over the island—ideal for capturing unforgettable holiday photos!

Best Times to Cruise the Eastern Caribbean

The Eastern Caribbean is a year-round destination, but the peak cruising season extends from **December to April**, when temperatures are delightful, ranging from **24°C to 29°C**. This period offers the best weather and a lively atmosphere, but also higher prices as it’s in great demand. An excellent time for budget-conscious cruisers is from **May to early December**, allowing for cooler weather in the range of **22°C to 28°C**. While some showers may occur during this period, the lower fares and fewer crowds make it worth considering!

Cost Considerations for Cruising in the Eastern Caribbean

When it comes to the cost of cruising, a one-week standard cruise to the Eastern Caribbean typically ranges between **$1,700 to $2,800**, while a two-week adventure can cost approximately **$3,500 to $5,500**. Luxury cruise options start from around **$5,000** for a week-long experience. Budget for meals while on shore as well, as dining costs typically fall between **$30 to $60** per meal in local restaurants, depending on your choice of cuisine and location. The most economical times to cruise are in late spring and early autumn, while peak pricing occurs during the winter and holiday seasons.

Major Cruise Lines Operating in the Eastern Caribbean

• Princess Cruises: With a fleet of **17 ships** and **10** sailing to the Eastern Caribbean, the **Grand Princess** and **Enchanted Princess** are among the most popular. Departing primarily from **Fort Lauderdale** or **San Juan**, Princess Cruises is renowned for its exceptional service and range of onboard activities catering to all ages, making it a great choice for families and couples alike.
• MSC Cruises: This cruise line features **23 ships**, with **nine** navigating to the Eastern Caribbean. The **MSC Virtuosa** and **MSC Seaside** frequently depart from **Miami** or **Fort de France**. MSC is known for its inviting family-friendly atmosphere, fantastic eateries on board, and diverse itineraries that appeal to a broad audience.
• Holland America Line: This line has a fleet of **11 ships**, with **eight** sailing to the Eastern Caribbean. The **Zuiderdam** and **Eurodam** regularly cruise from **Fort Lauderdale** or **Miami**. They provide a classic cruising experience with carefully crafted itineraries, offering enrichment programmes to immerse guests in the local cultures during their stopovers.
• Royal Caribbean Cruises: This expansive fleet boasts **29 ships**, with **18** focusing on the Eastern Caribbean. The **Brilliance of the Seas** and **Rhapsody of the Seas** usually depart from **San Juan** or **Fort Lauderdale**. Royal Caribbean is widely recognised for its adventure-filled offerings onboard that include rock climbing walls, surfing simulators, and an impressive array of dining options.
• Norwegian Cruise Line: Featuring **20 ships**, **14** sail through the Eastern Caribbean, with popular ships including the **Norwegian Jewel** and **Norwegian Escape** departing from **Miami** or **New York**. This cruise line is famous for its “freestyle cruising” concept, allowing guests the flexibility to dine and engage in activities at their leisure, ensuring a unique and personalised experience.

Luxury and Small Ship Options

• Explora Journeys: This modern cruise line has **two ships** in their fleet, both of which provide itineraries to the Eastern Caribbean—**EXPLORA I** and **EXPLORA II**. They typically depart from **Miami** or **San Juan**. Explora Journeys prides itself on immersive local experiences, offering curated excursions to ensure guests truly connect with each destination on their journey.
• Oceania Cruises: This luxury cruise line operates an **eight-ship** fleet, with **six** offering itineraries to the Eastern Caribbean, featuring **Vista** and **Insignia**. They often depart from **Miami** or **Civitavecchia (Rome)**. Oceania is well-known for its culinary excellence onboard, with gourmet dining options that highlight the local cuisine at each port, appealing to food lovers.
• Seabourn: With a fleet of **six ships**, **three** visit the Eastern Caribbean, including **Seabourn Ovation** and **Seabourn Venture**. Most voyages depart from **Bridgetown** or **Philipsburg**. This cruise line offers an ultra-luxurious experience with fully inclusive itineraries that feature exclusive excursions and exquisite culinary offerings, offering an unmatched level of service to its guests.
• Silversea: Silversea’s fleet includes **13 ships**, **five** of which sail to the Eastern Caribbean, including **Silver Ray** and **Silver Shadow**. Often setting sail from **Fort Lauderdale** or **Bridgetown**, Silversea stands out for its ultra-luxurious offerings and all-inclusive nature, ensuring every aspect of your cruise experience is tailored for ultimate indulgence.
• Regent Seven Seas Cruises: Featuring a fleet of **six ships**, **four** frequent the Eastern Caribbean, prominently the **Seven Seas Grandeur** and **Seven Seas Mariner**. Departures typically occur from **Miami** or **San Juan**. Regent is acclaimed for its all-inclusive luxury cruising style, with personalized service, upscale dining options, and included excursions creating a truly memorable journey with every detail taken care of.

Explore Alternative Regions

If you’re intrigued by the beauty of the Eastern Caribbean but want to explore other stunning options, consider these regions:

• Southern Caribbean: Offering a laid-back island vibe with beautiful beaches, exciting snorkelling adventures, and colourful local culture, it’s perfect for outdoor enthusiasts.
• The Mediterranean: Known for its rich history, culinary delights, and iconic landmarks, the Mediterranean combines a diverse range of experiences perfect for culture lovers.
• Western Caribbean: The Western Caribbean is popular for its lush landscapes, vibrant marine life, and stunning beaches, making it a fantastic destination for snorkelling and diving.
• Central America: A rich blend of natural beauty, indigenous cultures, and historical sites await in Central America, ideal for history buffs and adventure seekers alike.
• North America: Cruise through the picturesque coastal towns of Florida, allowing you to explore everything from urban excitement to serene beaches on one trip.

The Eastern Caribbean promises a wealth of experiences, from stunning beaches to rich cultural interactions. So why wait? Book your dream cruise with **CruiseAway** today, and set sail towards unforgettable adventures in this tropical paradise!