| Bermuda
Where it is: This island nation sits independently in the North Atlantic Ocean, far off the coast of North Carolina. It's important to remember it's not part of the Caribbean and therefore, the time of year matters!
Common US Departure Ports: Often from East Coast ports such as Boston, and New York.
Why people cruise here: Bermuda offers a unique combination of British sophistication and relaxed island charm. It's known for its distinctive pink sand beaches, elegant pastel-colored houses, and beautiful golf courses. Cruises to Bermuda often involve multi-day stays in port, allowing for a deeper exploration of the island's history, culture, and natural beauty, including its fantastic snorkeling and diving.
The most common cruise port:
- King's Wharf (Royal Naval Dockyard), Bermuda (historical fortifications, shopping, and easy access to beaches)
The Bahamas
Where it is: These islands are nestled in the Atlantic Ocean (not in the Caribbean like most people assume), situated just off the southeast coast of Florida. They are the closest international cruise destination to the U.S. mainland.
Common US Departure Ports: Almost exclusively from various Florida ports (Miami, Fort Lauderdale, Port Canaveral, Palm Beach) due to its close proximity. It is also often included in Eastern and Western Caribbean itineraries.
Why people cruise here: The Bahamas are perfect for quick getaways, first-time cruisers, or families looking for a short, fun escape. They offer stunning white and pink sand beaches, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and plenty of sun. Many cruise lines have private islands here, providing exclusive beach experiences with amenities like water parks.
A few common cruise ports you might visit:
- Nassau (the bustling capital with lively markets, historical sites, and casinos)
- Princess Cays, Half Moon Cay, CocoCay, Ocean Cay, Great Stirrup Cay (private islands owned by cruise lines, offering exclusive beach clubs and activities)
Western Caribbean
Where it is: This region takes in the western part of the Caribbean Sea and the Gulf of Mexico. It's generally located south and southwest of Florida, stretching along the coastlines of Mexico and Central America.
Common US Departure Ports: Many cruises to this region depart from Florida (like Miami, Fort Lauderdale, Tampa, Port Canaveral) but also from ports further west like Galveston, Texas, and New Orleans, Louisiana.
A few common cruise ports you might visit:
- Cozumel, Mexico (great for snorkeling, exploring Mayan culture, and lively beaches)
- Costa Maya, Mexico (gateway to the Yucatán Peninsula and ancient Mayan sites like Uxmal or Chichen Itza)
- Belize City, Belize (jungles, Mayan ruins, and the stunning Belize Barrier Reef)
- Roatán, Honduras (excellent diving, lush landscapes, and encounters with sloths)
- George Town, Grand Cayman (famous for Seven Mile Beach and interacting with stingrays at Stingray City)
- Falmouth or Ocho Rios, Jamaica (waterfalls, Bob Marley history, and vibrant culture)
Eastern Caribbean
Where it is: This region is found in the northeastern part of the Caribbean Sea, extending east from Florida. It includes a chain of islands that lead down towards the top of South America.
Common US Departure Ports: Primarily from Florida (Miami, Fort Lauderdale, Port Canaveral)
Why people cruise here: These itineraries are ideal for those who love iconic island hopping through postcard-perfect scenery. You'll find a delightful mix of lush volcanic landscapes, pristine white-sand beaches, charming historical towns, and excellent duty-free shopping. It's a great choice for a vibrant and relaxed island-hopping vacation.
A few common cruise ports you might visit:
- Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic (historic colonial architecture, cable car rides, and beautiful beaches)
- San Juan, Puerto Rico (rich history, the colorful cobblestone streets of Old San Juan, and vibrant nightlife)
- St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands (famous for breathtaking Magen's Bay Beach and fantastic duty-free shopping)
- St. Maarten/St. Martin (a unique dual-nation island offering a blend of French sophistication and Dutch lively beaches)
- Grand Turk, Turks and Caicos (stunning beaches, great snorkeling, and vibrant coral reefs)
Southern Caribbean
Where it is: This region is located further south in the Caribbean Sea, closer to the South American coast. These islands are typically smaller, drier, and offer a unique blend of cultures and landscapes.
Common US Departure Ports: Sailings often depart from Florida (Miami, Fort Lauderdale, Port Canaveral) for longer cruises. Shorter Southern Caribbean trips might embark from San Juan, Puerto Rico, making it easier to reach these more distant islands while minimizing sea days.
Why people cruise here: These cruises tend to be a bit longer and offer a more diverse and often less crowded island experience. You'll discover unique historical influences, stunning natural beauty, and fantastic opportunities for adventure like world-class diving and hiking, alongside plenty of relaxation. The ABC islands (Aruba, Bonaire, Curaçao) are also popular for their consistently sunny weather, lying outside the main hurricane belt.
A few common cruise ports you might visit:
- Oranjestad, Aruba (part of the ABC islands, known for consistent sunshine, Dutch influence, and excellent beaches like Eagle Beach)
- Willemstad, Curaçao (part of the ABC islands, famous for its colorful Dutch colonial architecture and vibrant culture)
- Kralendijk, Bonaire (part of the ABC islands, a diver's paradise with protected reefs)
- Basseterre, St. Kitts (historic sugar cane plantations, volcanic landscapes, and a scenic railway)
- Bridgetown, Barbados (elegant beaches, British heritage, and renowned culinary scene)
- Castries, St. Lucia (iconic Pitons, lush rainforests, and stunning volcanic beaches)
- St. George's, Grenada (the "Spice Isle," with beautiful beaches, waterfalls, and spice plantations)
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