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Don't get us wrong, if you've got a card you absolutely must hit the marine park—but even snorkeling around Klein Bonaire is better than the diving almost anywhere in the US. If you prefer to find your adventure on dry land, a hike through Washington Slagbaai National Park will take you through a spectacular desert with more than 200 different species of birds. Animal lovers will also love boat or kayak tours at Bonaire's Wild Bird Rehab, befriending the donkeys at the Donkey Sanctuary, or taking in the colors at the Bonaire Butterfly Farm. But venture outside the ports and you'll find a city where you can experience Dominican culture and look at Victorian architecture. There's also an entire museum devoted to amber and some of the most underrated beaches in the DR.
Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic
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. Barbados is the easternmost island in the Caribbean (technically in the Atlantic), so the waves and breaks on its eastern coast make for some of the most impressively rugged coastline in the islands. A 4x4 tour out here is definitely worth your time, though a stroll through the historic British colonial capital of Bridgetown is a whole different kind of impressive.
Old San Juan, Puerto Rico
Caribbean islands offer an abundance of flavors steeped in a melting pot of culinary traditions. Local cuisine is an eclectic blend, drawing influence from African, European, East Indian, and indigenous peoples. Nassau and Cozumel offer duty-free liquor along with handicrafts, souvenirs, cigars, and other typical Caribbean gifts. The Cayman Islands boast luxury shopping with name-brand stores in Grand Cayman. Nassau's star attraction is the Atlantis Resort, and, happily, you don't have to be an overnight resort guest to partake in some of its world-class facilities.
Best Southern Caribbean Destinations
The food scene here is unmatched, with seafood restaurants from the likes of Eric Ripert, plus an annual culinary cookout that draws A-list food celebs from the world over. In terms of water activities, you can swim with the rays at Stingray City, or take a dive to explore the Kittiwake, one of the coolest shipwrecks in the Western Hemisphere. For a remote island getaway within reach of home, look no further than one of Carnival’s cruises to the Southern Caribbean.
Cozumel, Mexico enchants divers with its world-class coral reefs, while Ocho Rios in Jamaica promises cascading waterfalls and verdant gardens. Across the waters in St. Thomas, duty-free shopping and breathtaking views from Charlotte Amalie’s hilltops await. You can snorkel among the coral and sea life for about an hour (a snorkeling lesson may be included, too), or just enjoy the views (and the rum punch included on the way back). Known for its lush green twin peaks known as the Pitons, St. Lucia entices travelers with postcard-perfect beaches set against jungle scenery.
San Juan, PR
Best Diving and Snorkeling in the Caribbean for Cruisers - Cruise Critic
Best Diving and Snorkeling in the Caribbean for Cruisers.
Posted: Tue, 19 Dec 2023 08:00:00 GMT [source]
Or sip on a signature Labadoozie frozen cocktail at the Floating Bar along the crescent-shaped shoreline of Adrenaline Beach — a must for anyone on a Labadee cruise. If you’re looking for max relaxation, kick back in a private bungalow at Nellie’s Beach with attendant service to keep the refreshments flowing. Shutter bugs can get the best bragworthy photos from the gorgeous lagoon-like bay of Columbus Cove.
Cozumel, Mexico
I cruised Royal Caribbean from Tampa for the first time. Here's what a cruise from this smaller port is like. - Royal Caribbean Blog
I cruised Royal Caribbean from Tampa for the first time. Here's what a cruise from this smaller port is like..
Posted: Fri, 17 Nov 2023 08:00:00 GMT [source]
White sand beaches and crystal-clear turquoise waters are the biggest attractions for most Caribbean cruisers. You'll be hard-pressed to find a Caribbean cruise port that does not offer beach access. Whether you enjoy a cruise line's private beach, a public beach lined with bars or get a day pass to a resort or beach club, you can rarely go wrong with a beach day in the islands. Nestled along Haiti’s northern coast, Labadee is an exciting private destination for Royal Caribbean guests with endless ways to relax and plenty of thrilling activities. Here, vibrant mountain ranges meet five sugar white sand beaches — each with its own unique appeal. If you can’t wait to soak up the sun, you’ll want to make Dragon’s Beach your first stop — it’s the closest beach upon arrival.
Renovations have revitalized the area and it's now one of the most beautiful towns in the country. The multimillion-dollar refurbishment of the Malecón is especially impressive. Here you can visit Fortaleza de San Felipe, the fort that protected the city from pirate attacks and was later turned into a prison. The lighthouse was also restored and now likely looks like it once did when it guided the many ships sailing the Atlantic. Aruba calls itself "One Happy Island," which might have something to do with the fact that it rarely experiences a rainy day.
Located on Jamaica’s north coast, Montego Bay is one of the most popular West Caribbean cruise ports. Ships dock at the Montego Freeport Cruise Terminal, close to the many shops and restaurants of the Hip Strip. The Western Caribbean offers an array of exotic destinations with diverse cultures, breathtaking natural landscapes, and ancient historical sites. Charlotte Amalie, the capital of St. Thomas, offers an enticing blend of colonial elegance and island charm.
The following Caribbean cruise ports are generally standouts, no matter your travel style. Shopping is a popular diversion, from high-end French stores in Martinique and St. Barts to crafts markets and souvenir shops. Historical attractions range from forts erected to protect against pirates to Mayan temples.
Afro-Caribbean and Venezuelan influences are also seen in Curaçao's food and you'll taste them in dishes like arepa di pampuna. Try this and many more dishes at local restaurants like Trio Penotti, Brisa do Mar and Shelterrock. There's a lot to do in Curaçao, including strolling by colonial buildings, taking in the art scene by stopping at a gallery and learning about its history from one of the many museums.
Excursions to El Yunque typically include bus stops at or short treks to one of the park's waterfalls. The experience incorporates a high-tech twist via special handheld power units that utilize propellers to guide snorkelers along on their underwater adventure. Cool off in Grand Turk's turquoise waters on a snorkeling tour; many of them are run aboard scenic catamaran sailings. Visitors have the unusual opportunity to hop in the shallow water with the habituated creatures, feel their velvety skin and pose for photos. For high-flying views of Belize's rainforest, ziplining is a must, and for those who enjoy swimming in ancient, darkened caverns, cave-tubing will be right up your alley.
These lines cater to all ages, including older couples and families with children. Located on the east coast of South America, Belize is famous for its sultry jungles and adventure culture. The Belize Barrier Reef is perhaps the most sought-after adventure because the reef is the second-largest in the world. Labadee also has a rich history and vibrant culture that reflects Spanish and French influence. Christopher Columbus discovered the island on his first voyage to the New World.
Unusual spots like the Aloe Museum and the Arubian Taste Liqueur are also must-sees. Other quick stops include the natural pools inside Arikok National Wildlife Park and Eagle Beach, which is located in the resort area. The Southern Caribbean is a bit more off the beaten path, and those who go are treated to some of the most diverse and exotic scenery in the entire region. Marvel at mighty volcanoes, explore lush tropical rainforests and caves, or test your bravery while rappelling down a cliff. For those venturing independently, downloading offline maps or navigation apps of the area can prove invaluable. Passengers should also be aware of the time they need to return to the ship, as cruise liners adhere strictly to their departure schedules.
Book an outing to the Atlantis Aquaventure "waterscape," a sophisticated 141-acre water park that comes jam-packed with water slides, rolling rapids, swimming areas and more. If you're feeling more adventurous, head to Grand Etang for the Seven Sisters Waterfalls hike; the tour is often combined with a visit to spice or rum factories. If you need a break from beach-bumming, a popular alternative in Barbados is a tour of Harrison's Cave. This crystallized limestone cavern comes teeming with streams, pools, stalactites and stalagmites. Discover where to have lunch or a quick bite to savor local flavors, cuisine or wines in the best coffee shops, al fresco, in quaint or gourmet restaurants ...
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