Here's our pick of 10 top Caribbean and Central American ports. All you need to do is decide where to go first! … [Read more...]
Caribbean East
Probably the most popular cruise region in the world, the islands of the Eastern Caribbean are well tuned towards receiving thousands of visitors each day.
The majority of cruise passengers in the Caribbean are obviously from the United States and Canada. The relative short flying time to the embarkation ports of Fort Lauderdale, Miami, San Juan and Barbados from the United Kingdom also make the area attractive to British travellers.
The region became increasingly popular in the 1960s, when the major transoceanic cruise liners saw their passengers diverting to jet aircraft. In the 1930s, Prohibition in the United States contributed to the operation of short “booze cruises’ to the Bahamas.
Each of the Caribbean islands is culturally and physically different to its neighbours and most have tastefully maintained and restored their colonial buildings, opening some of them to the daily influx of cruise passengers. There are many plantations open to the public with plenty of opportunities for visitors to test the local delicacies, rum and fruits.
Those who seek an unrivalled blend of water sports, beaches and sightseeing will not be disappointed. The shops generally cater for an international scene, especially in Charlotte Amalie on St Thomas in the US Virgin Islands.
Today, the Caribbean offers year round cruising although the most popular months are between October and March. Prior to this season, there is a risk of freak hurricanes.
Many operators reposition their ships at the beginning and end of the season, giving passengers the opportunity to fly in one direction and cross the Atlantic by sea in the other. These cruises offer excellent value for money and often carry the most favourable discounts.
Highlights
- Old City, San Juan
- Fort Amsterdam, Philipsburg
- Fairchild Market and Temple Yard, Bridgetown
- Sandy Lane, Bridgetown
- Brimstone Hill Fortress, Basseterre
- Magen’s Bay, Charlotte Amalie
- Buck Island National Park, St Croix
- Natural History Museum, Hamilton
- Trois Pitons National Park, Roseau
- Tortola island tour, Road Town
What to pack
Read our guide to What to pack when cruising to the Caribbean
Disney Fantasy Launch in March 2012!
October 20, 2011 By Leave a Comment
Building on the classic style of her sister ship, 2011’s Disney Dream, the Disney Fantasy is the fourth ship in the expanding Disney Cruise Line fleet. It will include many of the innovative features from the Dream including the popular AquaDuck – the world’s first shipboard water coaster. The Fantasy will have an identity of its own, however, with new design elements and guest experiences. Some of the highlights include Europa – a night-time … [Read more...]
Antigua Port Guide
January 19, 2011 By Leave a Comment
Famed for its 365 beaches, visitors will be drawn to the azure blue seas and secluded beaches of the largest of the British Caribbean Islands. Antigua’s history is deeply rooted in the production of sugar cane – at its peak the island was home to more than 150 cane-producing mills. Today many of the plantation houses are restored into hotels and restaurants. The one remaining sugar estate is at Betty’s Hope where visitors can see a fully … [Read more...]
Celebrity Equinox Review – Caribbean Cruise
January 18, 2011 By Leave a Comment
Fancy the big ship Caribbean adventure? Discover what it’s like to be treated like a star on board Celebrity Equinox on a five island cruise. … [Read more...]
Barbados Port Guide
January 14, 2011 By Leave a Comment
Barbados is by far the most popular of Caribbean islands for Brits, due to its long and close association with the UK. Just 21 miles by 14 miles, it is also one of the most diverse, from the upmarket resorts of the Platinum Coast, to the fun resorts of the South, the wild and rugged east coast and the quiet north. What to see & do If you’ve only got time for one site make it Harrison’s Cave (harrisonscave.com), an incredible cave complex. … [Read more...]
British Virgin Islands Port Guide
November 18, 2010 By 1 Comment
This idyllic collection of around 50 tiny islands are perfect for honeymooners, beach-lovers and escapists wanting to soak up the scenery or try the excellent sailing for which the islands are renowned. The two main islands of Tortola and Virgin Gorda boast a sprinkling of luxurious hotels, plush villas and locally-run boutique properties. Then there are island retreats, such as Necker, owned by Virgin billionaire Richard Branson. What to see & … [Read more...]
San Juan, Puerto Rico Port Guide
November 18, 2010 By 2 Comments
San Juan is the lively capital of Puerto Rico, a US territory that is a captivating mixture of Spanish, Taino Indian and African cultures, and a magnet for cruise ships. The city is home to high-rise luxury hotels and a buzzing nightlife, but away from the hubbub, visitors can discover a totally different world of colonial towns, lush rainforest, quiet seaside resorts and hidden beaches. This is the land of Ricky Martin and the Latin beat runs deep … [Read more...]
Turks & Caicos Port Guide
November 18, 2010 By 2 Comments
The Turks & Caicos islands are unashamedly upmarket and low-key, with unspoilt surroundings and uber-stylish hotels frequented by the rich and famous. The stunning beaches have been voted the world’s best, while the attractive capital, Grand Turk, is full of colonial houses and atmospheric inns, plus the country’s own national museum. But it’s the island of Providenciales (known as Provo) that is the main tourist hub with its collection … [Read more...]
Reduction on solo traveller fares continue for 2011 on Silversea
October 20, 2010 By Leave a Comment
Silversea is to continue reductions on the single supplement in 2011. The Solo Traveller fares were launched in summer 2010 and applied to select voyages. Next year, the same reduction rate is offered but with more voyages to choose from. Over 20 cruises will offer the reduction in 2011 including voyages to the Far East, Arabian Peninsula, South America and Caribbean. The reduction offer on the single supplement is 10-25 per cent above the per-person, … [Read more...]
What to pack for a cruise to the Caribbean – The Top 10
October 15, 2010 By 1 Comment
With its crystal clear waters and golden sandy beaches it’s little wonder that the Caribbean is one of the most popular cruising destinations. Peak season falls between December and February and with temperatures consistently around the 30°C, you need to dress and pack accordingly. 1. Sun Protection Pasty pale skin in search of some winter sun needs protection. Make sure you choose at least factor 30 and remember to apply at … [Read more...]
