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 West
Those seeking a healthy combination of relaxation and cultural sightseeing will not be disappointed by a cruise to the Western Caribbean.
The sites of the lost civilisations of the mighty Mayan people attract hundreds of thousands of visitors through the ports of Costa Maya, Cancun and Cozumel. Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula is home to dozens of noteworthy Mayan sites, with the fortress city of Tulum being one of the most famous. Extended excursions are available to Chichen Itza and these are best arranged through the cruise operator as independent travel may be difficult.
Adventure seekers are excited by white water rafting in Jamaica and the climb to the top of the 600 ft Dunn’s River Falls. Grand Cayman is a popular calling point for diving, water sports and exploring the world famous Stingray City.
The Western Caribbean enjoys all year cruising, although the main season is between October and March when many North Americans and Canadians endeavour to escape their harsh winters.
All the cruise ports are designed to receive the dozens of ships that frequent these waters although some smaller destinations, such as George Town in Grand Cayman and Belize City may require the use of tenders.
With virtually every country of the Western Caribbean being Roman Catholic, the main Christian festivals are celebrated to the full, especially during the February carnival season.
The east coast ports of the United States are also worthy of consideration when selecting a cruise in the area. Galveston and New Orleans are notable ports of embarkation and Cruise and Stay options. Key West provides an exciting day for those wanting to walk in the steps of Ernest Hemingway and then join in one of the world’s most famous sunset parties.
In recent years the Cuban capital, Havana, has opened up to cruise ships and some European operators offer overnight stays in port.
Highlights
- Sunset Party, Key West
- Ernest Hemingway’s House, Key West
- Dunns River Falls, Montego Bay
- Cigar Factory, Havana
- Seven Mile Beach, George Town
- Mayan temples, Cancun
- Bob Marley’s tomb, Ocho Rios
- White water rafting, Montego Bay
- Chankanaab National Marine Park, Cozumel
- Diving in Belize, Belize City
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...]
Cayman Islands Port Guide
November 18, 2010 By 2 Comments
This trio of islands – Grand Cayman, Cayman Brac and Little Cayman – are more famous for their underwater attractions that offer some of the best diving on earth. Grand Cayman is the main hub and its capital George Town is where cruise ships dock. The island attracts the most tourists, who generally stay in properties along the famous Seven Mile Beach. Besides divers, the islands appeal to couples and families who love the beach and the water … [Read more...]
Havana Cuba Port Guide
November 9, 2010 By 3 Comments
If you’ve never been to Havana you’d probably imagine it as a time capsule filled with 1950 Cadillacs, faded colonial buildings, cigar factories and Che Guevara murals. What’s more, you’d be right. You won’t find a single Starbucks or McDonalds here. What you will find is salsa, mojitos and photo-opportunities aplenty. What to see and do The streets of the Unesco-listed old town Havana Vieja showcase the city’s colonial architecture … [Read more...]
Jamaica Port Guide
November 5, 2010 By 4 Comments
Golf, rum and golden sands bring visitors flocking to Jamaica but the island also has a notorious yet fascinating history. If you’ve ever considered a visit to Jamaica, it comes with a glowing recommendation from Christopher Columbus himself. The explorer takes the credit for the island’s discovery by Europeans in 1494 and described it as “The fairest isle mine eyes ever beheld.” Dramatic mountain ranges, superb beaches, fantastic … [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...]
Caribbean West
September 15, 2010 By Leave a Comment
Those seeking a healthy combination of relaxation and cultural sightseeing will not be disappointed by a cruise to the Western Caribbean. The sites of the lost civilisations of the mighty Mayan people attract hundreds of thousands of visitors through the ports of Costa Maya, Cancun and Cozumel. Mexico's Yucatan Peninsula is home to dozens of noteworthy Mayan sites, with the fortress city of Tulum being one of the most famous. Extended excursions … [Read more...]
