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24 Caribbean Cruises for Your Next Tropical Vacation

Island hop in luxury.

The Caribbean islands are among the most popular cruise destinations in the world thanks to the region's beautiful beaches, historic towns, ancient ruins, delicious food, and friendly locals. The diverse languages and cultures add to the appeal of the Caribbean, and cruises that visit a series of destinations highlight the distinctions among the islands. From ocean liners and yachts to small expedition vessels and sailboats, the best Caribbean cruises allow travelers to enjoy the time at sea and on land.

Caribbean cruises depart from many port cities, so for some travelers, spending a few days in a new place before or after the cruise adds to the experience. Cruises can be family-focused or adults-only, and many accommodate all ages with activities to keep everyone happy. Whether you're looking for a quick getaway or an extended vacation, a cruise can fit into your plans. Here are some of the best Caribbean cruises to inspire your island vacation.

Ponant's Panama, Colombia, and Caribbean Islands

Duration: 12 nights

What to expect: This voyage aboard the 184-passenger Le Bellot begins in Panama’s second-largest city of Colón, which sits at the Caribbean entrance of the Panama Canal. The first stop is the historic town of Portobello, home to UNESCO-listed fortifications and a colonial-era shipping port. Then, the cruise heads to the San Blas Islands, where guests can relax on white-sand beaches, swim in crystal-clear waters, and learn about the traditional fishing techniques of the Kuna people. Next is Cartagena, Colombia, home to a colorful and lively UNESCO-listed historical center, and Santa Marta, a gateway to the lush Sierra Nevada, the highest coastal chain of mountains in the world. After a day at sea, the ship arrives at the diving hot spot of Bonaire. Highlights after that include Grenada's capital city of St. George’s, the tranquil beaches of St. Vincent and the Grenadines, and the lush rain forest of St. Lucia. The penultimate port is Les Saintes, a pristine and mostly uninhabited archipelago of nine islands in Guadeloupe. After swimming, snorkeling, and reflecting on the journey, guests disembark the next day in Fort-de-France, Martinique.

Frederic Michel/Courtesy of Studio PONANT

Disney Cruise Line's 6-Night Western Caribbean Cruise from Galveston

Duration: Six nights

What to expect: Disney Cruise Lines has been named one of the best large-ship ocean cruise lines by Travel + Leisure readers, and for good reason. This itinerary invites guests to board the 875-room Disney Magic , which offers plenty of entertainment to enjoy during the first two days at sea between Galveston and Grand Cayman. For young passengers, there are clubs, games, pools, and Disney character encounters. Adults might enjoy the spa, nightclubs, restaurants, and evening entertainment. In Grand Cayman, cruisers can relax on the famed Seven Mile Beach or learn about historical artifacts at the Cayman Islands National Museum. In Cozumel, Mexico, there's scuba diving, snorkeling, and more stunning beaches. The following day is spent at sea with time to enjoy Disney Magic 's amenities before returning to Galveston.

Norwegian Cruise Line's Caribbean: Great Stirrup Cay and Dominican Republic

Duration: Seven nights What to expect: This cruise departs from Port Canaveral (Orlando) and spends the next day at sea aboard Norwegian Joy , which can carry 3,776 passengers, and has an adults-only relaxation area and beach club. The first port is Puerto Plata in the Dominican Republic, where travelers have time to enjoy the city views or explore on a hike. The ship visits the capital of the U.S. Virgin Islands, Charlotte Amalie, which offers duty-free shopping and beaches. Tortola, British Virgin Islands, is the next port, where guests can snorkel or tour the forest canopy before heading out to sea for a day. Following that is Great Stirrup Cay in the Bahamas, a private island for NCL guests to enjoy snorkeling, kayaking, WaveRunner adventures, or relaxing in a beachfront cabana before returning to Port Canaveral the next day.

Princess Cruises' 7-day Eastern Caribbean with St. Thomas

Duration: Seven nights What to expect: Guests board the 3,660-passenger Sky Princess in Fort Lauderdale and cruise to Princess Cays on Eleuthera in the Bahamas. A beach barbecue, a local craft market, and water activities from snorkeling to fishing are available on the private island resort. The next day at sea on the way to San Juan, Puerto Rico, offers time to enjoy onboard activities including the pool, spa, sports court, and casino, as well as programs for young cruisers. After that, travelers can tour Old San Juan, the El Yunque National Rainforest, and Fort San Cristobal. The next stop is St. Thomas, which offers snorkeling, hiking, and golfing. With the next two days at sea, guests can enjoy the ship's restaurants, spa, and family-friendly Camp Discovery centers before returning to Fort Lauderdale.

The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection's Bridgetown to Bridgetown

Duration: Seven nights What to expect: This cruise aboard the The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection 's 149-suite ship, Evrima , starts in Bridgetown, Barbados, and heads to Saint-Pierre, Martinique, also known as "the Paris of the Caribbean." Here, cruisers can explore a charming seaside town, black-sand beaches, and dive sites with shipwrecks. The next stop is Soufrière, St. Lucia, a gateway to natural wonders like the steaming volcanic crater of Sulphur Springs, the organic gardens of the Tet Paul Nature Trail, and lush rain forest that can be explored via guided hikes. The next day is dedicated to the pristine palm-lined beaches of Bequia, St. Vincent and the Grenadines. Grenada’s pedestrian-friendly capital of St. George’s gives guests a perfect opportunity to stretch their legs while viewing 18th-century architecture. The final destination before returning to Bridgetown, Barbados, is Canouan, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, home to colorful coral reefs, turtle nesting sites, and hiking trails up Mount Royal.

Norwegian Cruise Line's Western Caribbean: Harvest Caye, Cozumel, and Roatan

Duration: Seven nights

What to expect: This cruise leaves from New Orleans, so the celebration can start even before guests board the 3,903-passenger Norwegian Getaway for a day at sea with nightly entertainment, a casino, a spa, and a water park. There's the Splash Academy for young cruisers and the Entourage games and activities lounge for teens. The ship arrives at Costa Maya, Mexico, home to Mayan ruins, beaches, fly fishing, and river tubing. Belize is the next port, with river rafting through the jungle and relaxing on the beach. The next day is spent on Roatán, an island off the coast of Honduras, for snorkeling or a beach day. In Cozumel, off Mexico's Yucatán Peninsula, there's snorkeling, trolley tours, and tequila tasting. After another day at sea, the ship returns to New Orleans.

Royal Caribbean's 7-night Southern Caribbean

What to expect: Passengers board the 2,416-guest Rhapsody of the Seas in San Juan, Puerto Rico. The next port is the island of St. Thomas, with world-famous beaches and snorkeling. From there, the ship goes to St. Croix, the largest of the U.S. Virgin Islands. Then, it's on to Philipsburg on St. Maarten, a culturally vibrant island governed by the Netherlands and France. On St. Lucia, cruisers can opt to relax at a resort or on the beach or hit the island's hiking trails. The last stop before the ship returns to San Juan is Barbados, where guests can marvel at pink-sand beaches, go spelunking, or visit historic plantations.

Virgin Voyages' Eastern Caribbean Antilles

Duration: Eight nights

What to expect: One of the best adults-only cruises , this trip from Miami features a mix of adventure-filled days, nightlife, and experiences that are exclusive to Virgin Voyages guests. After boarding the 2,770-passenger Scarlet Lady , the first stop is the Dominican port of Puerto Plata, where excursions include an off-road adventure through villages, rivers, and waterfalls, a cable car ride up to the mountains, and a rum-tasting tour. The next stop in San Juan includes a late-night stay, giving guests extra time to experience Puerto Rico’s capital city in the evening. After a stop in St. Croix in the U.S. Virgin Islands, cruisers can enjoy the ship's many bars and restaurants before arriving at the Virgin Voyages Beach Club at Bimini, where they can relax by the shore or set out to explore the Bahamas' reefs, culture, and history on guided excursions.

Royal Caribbean's 4-night Bahamas and Perfect Day Cruise

Duration: Four nights What to expect: The 4,370-passenger Freedom of the Seas boards in Miami and heads to Nassau, Bahamas, for a day. Options there include Atlantis Resort and its water park, aquariums, and waterslides, as well as shopping and lounging on the beach. A day at sea gives guests time to enjoy the ship's water sports, nightlife, and restaurants. The ship arrives at CocoCay, Bahamas, for a day of fun in the freshwater pool, water park, Oasis Lagoon, and Coco Beach Club. The ship then returns to Miami for disembarkation.

Windstar Cruises' Classic Caribbean

What to expect: The cruise begins in St. Maarten aboard Wind Surf , a majestic 342-guest sailing ship with 150 luxurious staterooms. From there, the ship sails to Roseau, Dominica, and Pigeon Island, St. Lucia, where guests can explore rain forests and waterfalls. You can even hop aboard an aerial tram for a ride over the rain forest. In Guadeloupe, the Les Saintes archipelago offers snorkeling and rum sampling. In Basseterre, St. Kitts, there's an island tour, scenic railway, and zip line adventure. The cruise then heads to St. Barts for a catamaran sail before the ship returns to St. Maarten.

Hurtigruten's Tropical Waters and Remote Island Communities in the Caribbean

Duration: 11 nights

What to expect: Guests board the 550-passenger MS Roald Amundsen in Miami and spend the next two days cruising. The expedition ship has its own science center, as well as Nordic-inspired lounges, restaurants, and a spa, so guests can choose to dive into research or relax. The first stop is Belize, where you'll visit the Mayan ruins of Altun Ha and explore the country's pristine barrier reef. The cruise then heads to Honduras, stopping at spectacular dive sites and historic cities. Wildlife lovers will appreciate Nicaragua's remote islands of Cayos Miskitos, part of a protected nature reserve. Then, the adventure continues on Isla de Providencia in Colombia, Big Corn Island on Nicaragua's Caribbean coast, and Panama's UNESCO-listed Bocas del Toro islands. The final stop is Colón at the Caribbean entrance of the Panama Canal. Hurtigruten engages guests with citizen science programs, in-depth lectures from its expedition team, and purpose-driven excursions focused on mindfully exploring nature and the local cultures. Options include guided visits to Indigenous communities, hikes along rugged trails, and opportunities to learn about wildlife.

Windstar Cruises' Boston Sights, Warm Caribbean Nights

Duration: 10 nights

What to expect: Sailing from Boston aboard the all-suite Star Pride , which accommodates a maximum of 312 guests, cruisers can enjoy the spa, dining venues, and infinity pool during two days at sea on their way to Bermuda. In Hamilton, shopping, kayaking, and fresh seafood restaurants await, and in St. George's, guests can tour natural grottos or a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Two more days at sea take cruisers to St. Barts. After that, the ship stops in St. Kitts and the British Virgin Islands. San Juan is the final port, and guests can explore the walled old town after disembarkation.

Celebrity Cruises' Bahamas, Labadee, and Grand Cayman

Duration: Seven nights What to expect: Cruisers board the 3,260-passenger Celebrity Ascent in Fort Lauderdale and head to Nassau, Bahamas, for a day of relaxing beaches, duty-free shopping, and dining on the local specialty, conch fritters. A day at sea is next, with time to enjoy the ship's amenities, including 32 restaurants, bars, and lounges, a rooftop garden, and an adults-only solarium. Sip cocktails above the surf on the Magic Carpet, a cantilevered platform that can be raised up to 13 stories along the ship's exterior. The first stop is Labadee, a private Royal Caribbean port on Haiti's northern shore, which boasts stunning white-sand beaches and the world's longest over-water zip line. After another day of cruising the Caribbean, the ship arrives in George Town, Grand Cayman, for snorkeling, swimming with stingrays, and a beach barbecue. A final day at sea offers time to relax at the spa or dine at the three-story Eden restaurant before the ship returns to Fort Lauderdale.

Ponant's Pearls of the Caribbean Cruise

What to expect: From Martinique's capital of Fort-de-France, the 184-passenger Le Champlain sails to Bequia Island, home to lively Port Elizabeth, beaches, and a tropical rain forest. The ship makes several stops in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, including Mayreau Island for peaceful sandy beaches and snorkeling. The small islands of Tobago Cays teem with marine life such as green sea turtles. After a stop in the capital, Kingstown, the cruise heads to St. Lucia, where guests can relax on the protected beaches of Pigeon Island, a national landmark that features the ruins of an 18th-century British fort. A stop in Soufrière gives passengers a closer look at the Pitons, the island's signature twin volcanic spires. After a stop in Les Saintes, Guadeloupe, and Portsmouth, Dominica, the ship sails back to Martinique. Along the way, there's ample time to enjoy the elegant decor, swimming pool, and underwater lounge.

Azamara's 8-night Eastern Caribbean Voyage

What to expect: One of the best Caribbean cruises takes travelers on a voyage down to the region's eastern islands — all while sailing in the lap of luxury aboard the Azamara Quest , renowned for its comfortable 361 staterooms (including some with step-out balconies). The adventure begins in Miami and includes stops in St. Thomas, the British Virgin Islands, St. Kitts and Nevis, St Maarten, and St. Barts. Between shore excursions, guests can enjoy the ship's spa, fitness center, boutiques, enrichment programs, cocktail lounges, and performances by local talent.

Viking Ocean Cruises' West Indies Explorer

What to expect: Guests board the 930-passenger Viking Sea in San Juan before enjoying a day of exploring the town, kayaking, or horseback riding. Tortola, British Virgin Islands, is the next port, with time for snorkeling and the beach before heading to St. Kitts and Nevis. A rain forest safari and scenic railway trip are options there. In St. Lucia the next day, there's an aerial tram through the rain forest canopy and a catamaran tour. Bridgetown, Barbados, is the next port, and then Dominica the following day. Antigua and Barbuda offer a beach retreat or Segway city tour. In St. Maarten, sailing fans can participate in a simulated America's Cup race aboard a yacht. St. Thomas is the final stop before returning to San Juan.

Seabourn Cruises' 12-day Caribbean Gems

What to expect: The cruise begins in Miami, where guests board the Seabourn Sojourn for a day at sea on the way to San Juan. The ship offers 229 suites and an observation lounge and bar where passengers can enjoy the sea views. Activity options include a city tour, an El Yunque rain forest drive, or a culinary adventure. The next port is Gustavia, St. Barts, and then the ship continues to Guadeloupe for a day of touring or hiking. On Dominica, guests can explore waterfalls and hot springs before heading to Carambola Beach, home to some of St. Kitts and Nevis's most luxurious beach clubs and restaurants. Jost Van Dyke in the British Virgin Islands is the last port before the ship returns to Miami.

Viking Ocean Cruises' Amazon and Caribbean Adventure

What to expect: This cruise aboard the 930-guest Viking Sea begins in San Juan for sightseeing in the old city and access to white-sand beaches. Antigua and Barbuda are the next ports, where guests have a day to explore on land or via a catamaran cruise. Then it's on to St. Lucia for excursion options like an aerial tram through the rain forest canopy and a chocolate-making class. The ship arrives at Bridgetown, Barbados, for a day before setting sail for French Guiana. The next day is at sea, with time to enjoy the ship's activities before arriving at the Amazon River. The ship cruises the Amazon to the town of Santarém with its charming colonial-era cathedral. The next port in Brazil is Parintins, for a colorful folk performance, and then on to Manaus, 1,000 miles upriver from the Atlantic. Here, guests disembark to travel home or explore the city.

Silversea's Fort Lauderdale to Bridgetown

What to expect: This activity-packed voyage on the 596-passenger Silver Moon — one of the largest vessels in Silversea’s fleet — begins in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. After a couple of days at sea, the first stop is San Juan, where rain forest and architectural explorations await. Cruisers can take it slow in the next ports, St. Barts and St. Kitts, with beach time and culinary excursions or get their adrenaline pumping on a zip-lining adventure. The following two days include stops in St. John's and Guadaloupe, with shore excursions ranging from kayaking to snorkeling. On the seventh day, the ship arrives in Castries, St. Lucia, where guests can appreciate the capital city from above on a flightseeing helicopter tour or an aerial tram. The final stops are St. George's on Grenada and Bequia, St. Vincent and the Grenadines, before the voyage ends in Bridgetown, Barbados. 

Oceania Cruises' Tropical Retreats

What to expect: Passengers board in Miami for a day at sea on Oceania Cruises' Vista , with a pool bar, casino, spa, shops, 10 restaurants, and entertainment. The ship carries 1,200 passengers and features a wide variety of cabins including Oceania's first solo cabins. The first port is Cozumel, Mexico's largest Caribbean island, which offers shopping for local handicrafts and duty-free deals as well as snorkeling, river tubing, and boating. The next port is Harvest Caye, Belize, with beachfront villas and poolside cabanas that can be rented for the day and a lagoon for kayaks and pedal boats. Roatán, Honduras, is next, a remote island with white-sand beaches and coral reefs. The ship then stops at Costa Maya on Mexico's Caribbean coast, where guests can snorkel, kayak, relax on the beach, or explore nearby Mayan ruins. After a day at sea, the ship returns to Miami.

Celebrity Cruises' Aruba, Bonaire and Curacao

What to expect: After leaving Fort Lauderdale, this cruise begins with two days at sea, providing guests with ample time to enjoy the expansive top deck, restaurants, and bars aboard the 3,260-passenger Celebrity Beyond . The first stop in the Dutch Caribbean islands is Oranjestad, Aruba, where guests can stroll down historic streets lined with colorful buildings. The next stops are Kralendijk, Bonaire, renowned for its dive sites, and Willemstad, Curacao, famous for its 17th-century fort, colonial buildings, street art, and vibrant cafes and bars. Another two days at sea allow guests to relax before disembarking in Fort Lauderdale. 

Holland America Line's 7-day Tropical Caribbean

Duration: Seven nights What to expect: Boarding in Fort Lauderdale, this voyage invites up to 2,106 passengers for a week of fun on one of the best Caribbean cruises. After a night at sea, the sophisticated Nieuw Amsterdam arrives at Half Moon Bay, Bahamas, Holland America Line's private island with boating, snorkeling, biking, hiking, or horseback riding excursions. The following day is spent cruising toward the next stop in Grand Turk, Turks and Caicos, for snorkeling, diving, or relaxing on the shore. The next port is Amber Cove, Dominican Republic, to swim and snorkel or visit a rum distillery or cigar factory. After another day at sea, the ship arrives in Key West, Florida, giving guests a chance to visit the bars and restaurants of Duval Street and enjoy the historic architecture.

Lindblad Expeditions' Sailing the Caribbean Aboard Sea Cloud

What to expect: This cruise aboard Sea Cloud , a historic square-rigger ship that can accommodate 64 passengers, begins in Bridgetown, Barbados, for a true sailing adventure. The next day at sea provides time to relax on deck, observe the rigging crew as they hand-set the ship's 30 sails, or learn about the planned destinations. Upon arrival at Dominica, guests spend a day swimming and snorkeling before sailing on to Guadeloupe. The island of Bequia in the Grenadines is the next destination, where there's a model boat museum, a charming waterfront town, and local shops. Sea Cloud sails on to Grenada and then St. Lucia, which is home to a volcanic crater, waterfalls, sulfur springs, and mountains, before ending back in Barbados.

Regent Seven Seas Cruises' Magic in the Caribbean

What to expect: One of the best cruises to book in 2024 , Regent Seven Seas dazzles passengers with its luxurious amenities and captivating itineraries. For this voyage, travelers board the 750-guest Seven Seas Grandeur in Miami and spend the next day at sea, enjoying the ship's amenities, including the fitness center, spa, bocce court, cooking classes, infinity pool, and much more. Then it's five days of island hopping to the Dominican Republic, Puerto Rico, St. Barts, Dominica, Antigua, and the British Virgin Islands. Two more days at sea provide plenty of time to take advantage of everything the ship has to offer before returning to Miami to disembark.

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Best Cruise Lines in the Caribbean

When choosing to cruise to the Caribbean, images of white sand beaches, cerulean water and plenty of sun often come to

When choosing to cruise to the Caribbean, images of white sand beaches, cerulean water and plenty of sun often come to mind. But how do you know which cruise line offers the best Caribbean experience? To find out, U.S. News used a methodology that factors in each cruise line's variety, number and percentage of Caribbean itineraries, along with approval ratings among experts and travelers, to compile this list of the best cruise lines sailing in the Caribbean. In addition to offering a great Caribbean cruising experience, these cruise lines offer plenty of  deals on their voyages that can be found year-round.

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Disney Cruise Line

Disney's ships sail to ports across the Caribbean, including Barbados, Jamaica and St. Lucia. Most of Disney's Caribbean cruises stop at Castaway Cay – the cruise line's private island in the Bahamas. In addition to offering character greetings and waterslides, the island boasts less-congested beaches and prime snorkeling.

• 4.46 Overall Rating
• 5 Ships in Fleet

Celebrity Cruises

Celebrity's diverse Caribbean itineraries make it a star in the eyes of many cruisers. You can sail to spots like the U.S. Virgin Islands and the Cayman Islands, or boat around St. Lucia and other islands. Wherever you choose, you'll find a bevy of exciting shore excursions, ranging from swimming with stingrays to rum tasting adventures.

• 4.36 Overall Rating
• 13 Ships in Fleet

Virgin Voyages

Virgin Voyages is a well-designed, adults-only cruise line. Ships feature upscale dining, wellness activities and plenty of live entertainment, plus free Wi-Fi access. Caribbean itineraries make stops in San Juan, Puerto Rico; St. Croix, U.S. Virgin Islands; and Cozumel, Mexico. Virgin also boasts a private beach club in Bimini, Bahamas.

• 4.39 Overall Rating
• 3 Ships in Fleet

Royal Caribbean International

Royal Caribbean is known for its varied island itineraries – stops include Jamaica, Puerto Rico and St. Maarten. What's more, shore activities arranged through the cruise line cater to all types of travelers. Cruisers can zip line through the jungle, strap on scuba equipment and scour the deep-blue sea or just relax on the beach.

• 4.17 Overall Rating
• 25 Ships in Fleet

Holland America Line

Sailing to destinations like Bonaire, the Bahamas and Honduras, Holland America's ships offer a host of onboard amenities and activities to keep you entertained at sea. Once you dock, you'll be able to participate in fun excursions like sea trek helmet diving, catamaran sailing adventures and rainforest drives.

• 4.14 Overall Rating
• 11 Ships in Fleet

Carnival Cruise Line

Carnival brings the party to the Caribbean with its "Fun Ships," cruising to a handful of hot spots like Turks and Caicos and the Dominican Republic. Families in particular enjoy Carnival's affordable and flexible itineraries: Caribbean cruises range from four to 14 days, and you can find trips for less than $300 per person.

• 3.90 Overall Rating

Princess Cruises

Princess caters to all kinds of cruisers, from families to couples to solo travelers. The cruise line also entices passengers with its variety of itineraries, covering popular eastern, western and southern Caribbean destinations like the U.S. Virgin Islands and St. Maarten, as well as smaller spots such as Dominica and Grenada.

• 4.02 Overall Rating
• 15 Ships in Fleet

Norwegian Cruise Line

With 15 of Norwegian's ships sailing to dozens of popular isles in the Caribbean – from Aruba to Curacao to the Cayman Islands – the cruise line boasts a variety of itineraries to suit your fancy. Plus, Norwegian's extensive list of excursions includes offerings like parasailing, swimming with dolphins and snorkeling.

• 3.97 Overall Rating
• 19 Ships in Fleet

MSC Cruises

MSC doesn't tout as many Caribbean itineraries as other lines in this ranking; just seven of its 23 ships (Divina, Magnifica, Meraviglia, Seascape, Seashore, Seaside and Virtuosa) sail to the region in 2024. However, its routes stop in popular ports of call like Jamaica, the Bahamas, the Cayman Islands and Aruba.

• 3.79 Overall Rating
• 22 Ships in Fleet

Disclaimers about ship ratings: A ship’s Health Rating is based on vessel inspection scores published by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). If a ship did not receive a CDC score within 22 months prior to the calculation of its Overall Rating, its Health Rating appears as N/A; in such a case, the ship’s Overall Rating is calculated using the average Health Rating of all CDC-rated ships within the cruise line. All ship Traveler Ratings are based on ratings provided under license by Cruiseline.com.

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7 Caribbean Cruises We Love

These luxurious, intimate ships and itineraries are afar’s top picks for exploring the region..

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Some of the best Caribbean sailings will take you off the beaten cruise path to unspoiled gems like Grenada.

Courtesy of Hugh Whyte/Unsplash

The Caribbean is by far the world’s most popular cruise region—some 11.9 million passengers sailed in the Caribbean, Bahamas, and Bermuda in 2022, according to the Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA), compared to 3.2 million in the western and central Mediterranean, the next biggest market. Travelers board ships headed to the region year-round for sunny skies, sugary white sands, and the crystal blue sea. While it’s not exactly an under-the-radar destination, the best Caribbean cruises will bring you to multiple islands, including some lesser-frequented gems, and away from the larger cruise ship crowds.

On these cruises, you can explore the fascinating and diverse cultures and traditions throughout the Caribbean, and free your mind while hiking tropical landscapes or diving with colorful sea creatures. Small and medium-size ships get you to both known ports and off-the-beaten path places for more intimate beach and island experiences.

Jamaica is a popular stop on western Caribbean sailings.

Photo by Shutterstock

Where Caribbean cruises sail

The standard cruise routes in the Caribbean that the big ships visit, often on sailings from ports in Florida, are designed for a joyous and carefree vacation escape, at a price that many people can afford.

Eastern Caribbean cruises sail to tried-and-true islands such as the Bahamas , St. Thomas, St. Maarten, and sometimes Puerto Rico . Western Caribbean itineraries visit islands such as Grand Cayman, Jamaica , and Cozumel, or other ports in Mexico, and sometimes Belize and Honduras. Southern Caribbean cruises might venture to the Leeward Antilles for a taste of Dutch Caribbean culture, and attractions such as the otherworldly landscape of Aruba’s Arikok National Park .

Other popular places on the standard cruise map include the Dominican Republic , where you will find the oldest street in the Americas in the capital city of Santo Domingo; and Tortola, the largest of the British Virgin Islands, with access to beaches and mountain treks.

Ships that carry fewer than 1,000 people, and sometimes much less than that, have more flexibility in terms of ports, and sail on itineraries that venture to more low-key patches of paradise, such as the smaller British Virgin Islands; French Caribbean islands that include Guadeloupe, Martinique, and St. Bart’s ; and south to the glorious, unspoiled Grenadines and Grenada .

Smaller ships also tend to slow down itineraries, with late nights or overnights in port, so that you can enjoy the local nightlife. The departure points for these cruises are places you may want to linger before or after your sailing, such as lively Barbados , both a culinary and rum capital.

Best Caribbean cruises

On the Explora I , there’s a dedicated kids club, ensuring that all members of the family have fun.

Courtesy of Ivan Sarfatti/Explora Journeys

Explora Journeys’ A Journey to an Arcadian Antilles Adventures

• Best for: luxury family sailing
• To book: 7-night Journey to an Arcadian Antilles Adventures, round-trip from Barbados, from $4,850 per person (with discounted rates for children)
• Islands: St. Lucia, St. Kitts, St. Bart’s (overnight), Dominica, Martinique, Grenada

Geneva-based MSC Group , which also owns European cruise line MSC Cruises, launched Explora Journeys this year in an effort to bring the casual luxury resort experience to the high seas. The new line’s recently debuted first ship, the 922-passenger Explora I (which we recently reviewed ), is a posh multi-generational playground with four pools, pickleball, ample live entertainment, 18 restaurants and lounges, suites that connect to accommodate family groups and, key for those with youngsters, a supervised program for kids age 6 to 17 that’s open until midnight each day. The cushy Nautilus Club is equipped with foosball and the latest generations of video games and VR consoles, with activities such as technology tournaments, plus discussions on ocean conservation. Children’s bathrobes, slippers, and hangers match adult amenities. The luxe line has kids’ pricing too—up to 50 percent off fares.

Embrace the chill island vibes on the 26-passenger Vela , operated by Island Windjammers.

Courtesy of Island Windjammers

Island Windjammers’ 6-night Caribbean sailing

• Best for: laid-back island vibe
• To book: 6-night sailing on the 26-passenger Vela , from $2,825 per person
• Islands: St. Bart’s and Anguilla

Island Windjammers is the kind of under-the-radar experience you want to keep a secret. Fans love this tiny cruise line that keeps alive the long tradition of casual windjammer cruising in the Caribbean—with a 26-passenger classic clipper ship, Vela , and a 10-passenger schooner, Diamant . The company has been around since 2009 and has an amazing track record with its loyal customer base; so, if you want to book a cruise, you’d best do so well in advance. And don’t overpack; these sailings are very casual—T-shirts and shorts are the standard dress code. This experience is about lingering on islands or hanging out on deck, watching the sails catch the breeze, relaxing with a complimentary rum punch and dining alfresco. There’s also the thrilling opportunity to jump into the water from the rope swing, or to get out onto the sea on a selection of water toys, such as paddleboards and kayaks.

On the recently renovated SeaDream Yacht Club ships, passengers will truly feel the romance of traveling by sea.

Courtesy of Greg Ceo/SeaDream Yacht Club

SeaDream Yacht Club’s Saba, the Grenadines and Beyond cruise

• Best for: small ship experience
• To book: 7-night Caribbean itinerary , from $3,899 per person
• Islands: Antigua, Nevis, Saba, St. Bart’s (overnight), Guadeloupe (Îles des Saintes), Bequia and Mayreau (St. Vincent & the Grenadines), Barbados

SeaDream Yacht Club’s pair of yachts, SeaDream I and SeaDream II , cruise to dreamy Caribbean destinations in relaxed luxury. My favorite of the line’s Caribbean itineraries sails between St. John’s, Antigua, and Bridgetown, Barbados, and includes the less-visited Grenadines, though you also can’t go wrong with sailings that linger, for instance, in the British Virgin Islands. Recently renovated with a more contemporary vibe, the 112-passenger yachts deliver such luxuries as a romantic open-air overnight under a cozy duvet in a Balinese Dream Bed, isolated on the bow. There are new designer hammocks and parasols out on deck, too, as well as a pair of Jacuzzis for two. Dining is mostly alfresco, adding to the romance of being at sea.

Embrace your inner chef by enrolling in some S.A.L.T. culinary experiences on Silversea’s Silver Nova .

Courtesy of Silversea

Silversea’s Bridgetown to Fort Lauderdale, Florida cruise

• Best for: eco-conscious luxury ship
• To book: 7-night Bridgetown to Fort Lauderdale cruise , from $4,950 person
• Islands: Barbados, Bequia, St. Lucia, Dominica, Antigua, Virgin Gorda, Puerto Rico (San Juan)

On ultraluxury line Silversea’s new Silver Nova , guests linger on a reimagined resort deck with the pool not in the center, as on most cruise ships, but off to the side for optimal sea views. Relaxing on a cushy lounge chair on the Euro-centric ship (headquartered in Monaco, Silversea vessels feature contemporary Italian furnishings and a European feel onboard), you might imagine you are at a fancy resort in, say, St. Tropez. New outdoor dining and imbibing spaces add to the elevated beach club vibe. The 728-passenger ship is both the largest and most eco-friendly ship in the fleet, equipped with a large-scale hybrid power source, which combines hydrogen fuel cells, batteries, and dual engines that run on liquified natural gas. For foodies, the S.A.L.T. program focuses on local food and drink culture, both on and off the ship. In Bequia, you might splurge on a bespoke excursion about sea salt that includes a six-course lunch at Grenadine Wild Sea Salt (a company that produces artisanal sea salt from the waters off Bequia). Most excursions (though not this one) are complimentary.

This Viking sailing kicks off with an overnight in San Juan, Puerto Rico—for some extra time to explore the colorful old section

Viking Cruises’ West Indies Explorer itinerary

• Best for: value
• To book: 10-night West Indies Explorer cruise , from $3,299 per person
• Islands: San Juan, Puerto Rico (overnight), Tortola, St. Kitts, St. Lucia, Barbados, Dominica, Antigua, St. Maarten, St. Thomas

For those seeking more than just a beach scene, Viking Cruises offers a broad selection of daily tours focused on cultural and natural attractions in its all-inclusive pricing. Onboard the 930-passenger Viking Sea , sailing from San Juan on a 10-night West Indies Explorer itinerary , passengers visit nine countries with the opportunity to deeply immerse themselves in the Caribbean’s British, French, Dutch, and African history. Learn about the rich tradition of batiking (an ancient cloth dying method) with a hands-on class in St. Kitts, and explore the role of women in agriculture at an organic farm in St. Lucia. The cruise starts with an overnight in San Juan , offering some time to better understand the rhythm of that city before sailing away. Among things we love about this ship is the Nordic Spa, where after a full day of active exploration you can heal your body with a warm soak then wake yourself up at the freezing snow grotto, before more warm water surrendering.

The Pink Agave restaurant on the adults-only Virgin Voyages, where it’s all about the fun drinking, dining, and social atmosphere.

Courtesy of Virgin Voyages

Virgin Voyages’ Sunsets in the Lesser Antilles

• Best for: great dining, dancing, and entertainment for grown-ups
• To book: 7-night Sunsets in the Lesser Antilles cruise , round-trip from San Juan, from $2,550 for two
• Islands: Puerto Rico, St. Kitts & Nevis, Martinique, Curaçao, and Aruba

The only cruise line on this list with vessels that accommodate more than 1,000 passengers, Virgin Voyage’s 2,770-passenger ships are restricted to adults ages 18 and up and operate with more cheekiness than formality . Adults on a Virgin Voyages’ Caribbean cruise can expect an anything goes attitude, where you can dance outdoors under the stars alongside mermaids and mermen during a themed party, when not attending beach bashes on shore. By day, work up a sweat in an ’80s-style dance aerobics class or get a tattoo or piercing from one of the visiting artists in the onboard parlor. At night, play drinking games while eating at the Korean barbecue venue or enjoy a first-rate molecular dining experience with items that pop or smoke (all meals are complimentary). Embrace the detox/retox ethos onboard with time spent in the gym and spa when not partying. Big spenders might opt for a RockStar suite, where they can entertain guests when not taking a peek-a-boo shower with wide-open views of the sea. There’s a do-good aspect, too—with sustainable products such as upcycled ocean plastic sunglasses and reef-safe sunscreen available in the shops.

Ahoy there! Windstar Cruises sailing ships make passengers feel like they are traveling back to a simpler era on the seas.

Courtesy of Jeff Zaruba/Windstar Cruises

Windstar’s Beach Fun & Sun cruise

• Best for: sailing ship experience
• To book: 7-night Beach Fun & Sun: A Remote Caribbean Getaway cruise from St. Maarten, from $3,222 per person
• Islands: In the BVI, Tortola (Soper’s Hole), Jost Van Dyke (overnight) and Virgin Gorda; Anguilla, St. Bart’s, Antigua

For an under-the-billowing-sails experience, it’s hard to top the 342-passenger Wind Surf , the largest sailing ship in the world, with sails that unfurl with the push of a computerized button (or two). You might feel like a pirate navigating the high seas on this Windstar vessel, but you can also hit the top-flight spa for an extravagant massage (indoors or open-air) and dine on excellent cuisine including fresh fish and Caribbean-influenced fare, from the official cruise line of the James Beard Foundation. There are kayaks and other water sports toys to borrow from the marina and the opportunity to walk barefoot in the sand at laid-back ports. Some of the main perks include a pampering crew and a convivial yacht club atmosphere, with live music and dancing out on deck, which are just icing on the cake.

More From Forbes

Royal caribbean’s utopia of the seas is a monument to fed irrelevance.

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TOPSHOT - This aerial picture taken on July 11, 2024 shows Royal Caribbean's "Utopia Of The Seas," ... [+] billed as the world's largest cruise ship, docked at Port Canaveral in Cape Canaveral, Florida. (Photo by Miguel J. Rodriguez Carrillo / AFP) (Photo by MIGUEL J. RODRIGUEZ CARRILLO/AFP via Getty Images)

Coco Cay, Bahamas – Utopia of the Seas is the newest, but surely not the last super-cruise ship rolled out by cruise liner Royal Caribbean. Love or hate cruises or cruising, the scope of the ship is awe inspiring.

To get on it is to feel like you’re not on a ship, so enormous is it. To walk on is to experience the feeling of walking into a shopping mall as you’re presented with all manner of interior options including jewelry stores, pizza places, bars, sports bars, clothing shops, laser tag theatres, dry slides, and so much more. And that’s but a small description of the ship’s interior.

Outside are more bars, restaurants, pools, parks, waterparks, miniature golf, boogie-board parks, basketball courts, zip lines, and on and on. The Utopia of the Seas is seemingly the result of an architect teaming up with adults and children of unlimited imagination as they convey to the architect all that they want to do during 3 or 4 days at sea.

Which is the point. Or at least the point of this opinion piece. Utopia’s bigness and vastness in a everything sense reveals the smallness and realistically nothingness of the Federal Reserve. As is frequently said here, in the future people of all ideological stripes will look back on the era of Fed obsession and wonder why so many smart people were totally gulled by what is so plainly irrelevant. The Utopia of the Seas shows why.

To see why, or think why, consider what it is: it’s a triumph of rising global acquisitiveness (the ship’s passengers are from around the world) borne of soaring global productivity. Put another way, people from around the world increasingly possess the means (more on this in a bit) to vacation on the Utopia of the Seas precisely because they’ve more and more revealed a growing ability to produce.

Best High-Yield Savings Accounts Of 2024

Best 5% interest savings accounts of 2024.

This truth is of course a rejection of the economic narrative crafted by economists. Notable about economists is that the Fed employs more of them than any other entity on earth. It shows. And the Utopia of the Seas is a manifestation of the impressive foolishness of an economics profession that worships at the altar of consumption. A monument to consumption like the Utopia shows why near-monolithic worship of consumption among economists is so completely backwards.

Really, what limits the ability of Royal Caribbean passengers to consume in outsize ways? The obvious answer is that a lack of production is the limiting factor. Looking at this in a time sense, forty years ago a ship like the Utopia of the Seas would have been an impossibility. Not only was the global economy not interconnected enough to create something so vast in economic fashion, the bigger truth is that there wasn’t nearly enough American or global wealth forty years ago to keep something so gargantuan in business.

So what happened? Did the Fed’s rate fiddling create the wealth that makes something like the Utopia a possibility? It insults reason just to ask such a foolish question. Not only does it imply that would-be central planning of a crucial price (credit) has salutary impact, it also presumes that the Fed produces credit. No and no.

Missed by economists isn’t just that consumption is an effect of economic growth that always and everywhere follows production, it’s that credit itself is always and everywhere produced . By us. When we individuals, corporations and (sadly) governments borrow “money,” we’re borrowing what money can be exchanged for. Always . Which means there’s only credit insofar as there’s production, and production grows the more that individuals and machines the world over divide up work in ever-more sophisticated fashion.

Notable about what should be a statement of the obvious is that Utopia of the Seas is far from the frontier when it comes to Royal Caribbean’s ability to create for an increasingly acquisitive global population of workers. In 2025, Star of the Seas is set to be rolled out, and it will, if possible, expand on Utopia’s vastness.

Which is the bigger point. There are no limits to production and the credit expansion that is a brilliant consequence of production. Which means that if people remain free to produce, the Utopia and the Star will soon enough be revealed as being as primitive as the formerly vast ships that they replaced. And the Fed will be irrelevant to this evolution.

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• Margaritaville at Sea Islander 2024 Updated Review + Cruise News [Podcast]

Doug Parker

• September 2, 2024

Doug Parker discusses recent cruise news with staff writer Richard Simms. Richard covered a landslide in Ketchikan, Alaska, which caused damage and casualties but did not directly affect cruise passengers.

He also addresses ongoing propulsion issues with the Carnival Vista, itinerary changes, and Royal Caribbean’s plans for new mega-ships. Additionally, Richard reports on travel chaos in Seattle due to a cyberattack, arrests for credit card fraud at Port Miami, and the delayed launch of the Villa Odyssey.

Doug then interviews guest Mitch, who shares his experiences from a recent cruise on the Margaritaville at Sea Islander. Mitch describes a cumbersome embarkation process, mixed dining experiences, and vibrant onboard entertainment.

He highlights the ship’s Margaritaville theme, noting positives and improvement areas. Mitch also recounts excursions in Key West and Nassau, emphasizing the need for better coordination and amenities for cruise passengers.

Overall, he finds the cruise enjoyable but suggests enhancements for a smoother experience.

Timestamps:

• Landslide in Alaska (00:00:41) : Discussion of a landslide in Ketchikan, Alaska, causing injuries but no cruise passenger involvement.
• Carnival Vista’s Propulsion Issues (00:02:07) : Update on ongoing propulsion issues with Carnival Vista and itinerary changes for upcoming sailings.
• New Mega Ships from Royal Caribbean (00:03:55) : Announce new Icon class ships from Royal Caribbean, including themed supper clubs.
• Cyber Attack in Seattle (00:06:11) : Details on a cyber attack disrupting flights and baggage claims at Seattle airport.
• Credit Card Fraud Arrests at Port Miami (00:07:40) : Four individuals were arrested for using stolen credit cards at a casino on MSC Magnifica.
• Update on the Villa Odyssey (00:09:37) : Status of the Villa Odyssey, allowing guests aboard but requiring them to stay in hotels.
• Margaritaville at Sea Islander Review (00:13:20) : Mitch shares his experiences aboard the Margaritaville at Sea Islander , including the embarkation process.
• Embarkation Process (00:15:53) : Mitch describes the security and check-in process, noting it was slow and laborious.
• First Impressions of the Ship (00:17:05) : Mitch is excited about the Margaritaville-themed decor and unique lobby design.
• Stateroom Experience (00:17:48) : Mitch compares his interior room to the Margaritaville hotel with bright, themed decor.
• Storage Availability (00:18:40) : He mentions limited storage in the cabin, making it challenging for three guests over five nights.
• Buffet Area Overview (00:19:24) : Mitch introduces the buffet area, called “the port of indecision,” and discusses its setup and lines.
• Food Quality and Service Issues (00:20:51) : Mitch expresses disappointment with the food quality and scheduling gaps in dining options.
• Complimentary Pizza and Burger Options (00:22:26) : He describes the complimentary pizza and burger options, noting long lines during peak times.
• Specialty Restaurants (00:23:46) : Mitch mentions a steakhouse experience shared by another guest, highlighting its positive reviews.
• Main Dining Room Experience (00:24:33) : He discusses the mixed dining experiences, including long wait times and friendly staff.
• Entertainment Options (00:27:05) : Mitch describes the entertainment atmosphere, noting the quality of music and limited theater shows.
• Crowd Management and Pool Layout (00:29:00) : He shares thoughts on pool areas, noting crowd dynamics and preferences for pool versus hot tub.
• Cruising Experience and Guest Demographics (00:31:10) : Mitch reflects on the mix of seasoned cruisers and newcomers, particularly Jimmy Buffett fans.
• Day in Key West (00:32:35) : Mitch prepares to discuss his experience in Key West, hinting at what was memorable.
• Getting Off the Ship (00:32:36) : He describes a challenging disembarkation experience due to delays and crowding.
• Jet Ski Tour Experience (00:33:06) : After disembarking, Mitch shares his enjoyment of a privately booked jet ski tour.
• Nassau Visit Overview (00:34:05) : Mitch discusses the short time spent in Nassau and the late arrival.
• Exploring Nassau’s new port area (00:35:13) : He appreciates the area’s layout and accessibility.
• Jenkins Beach Visit (00:35:53) : Mitch talks about visiting Jenkins Beach and suggests shared privileges with the Margaritaville Hotel.
• Casino Experience (00:38:04) : Mitch mentions his casino experience, noting he didn’t notice smoke and played slots.
• Demarcation Process (00:38:29) : Mitch describes a smooth demarcation process and a quick return home.
• First-Time Tips for Cruisers (00:39:11) : Mitch advises bringing a watch due to the lack of functioning clocks on the ship.
• Room Key Concerns (00:40:02) : He raises safety concerns about room keys displaying room numbers.
• Cruise Highlights (00:40:53) : Mitch reflects on the enjoyable theme and staff of the cruise.
• Survey Feedback (00:41:40) : Mitch discusses the crew’s emphasis on completing surveys during the cruise.
• Final Thoughts on Margaritaville at Sea (00:42:18) : If the price is right, Mitch recommends the cruise for Buffett fans and first-time cruisers.
• Craft Cocktails on Board (00:42:52) : Mitch mentions a craft cocktail bar called Havana Daydreaming as a highlight for unique drinks.
• Jimmy Buffett’s Margaritaville Ship Departs on First Cruise from Tampa
• Margaritaville Cruise Line Doubles Fleet, Sailing from Tampa in 2024
• First Margaritaville at Sea Sailings Pushed Back Two Weeks

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Caribbean Princess

Cruise line Princess Cruises

• Fort Lauderdale (Port Everglades, Florida)
• Port Canaveral (Orlando, Florida)
• Vancouver (BC Canada)
• Southampton (England)
• Whittier (Alaska)

Caribbean Princess current position

Caribbean Princess current location is at North East Atlantic Ocean (coordinates 55.95666 N / -4.76333 W) cruising en route to Stornoway. The AIS position was reported 5 minutes ago.

Current itinerary of Caribbean Princess

Caribbean Princess current cruise is 14 days, round-trip Ireland, Scottish Highlands Wales . The itinerary starts on 29 Aug, 2024 and ends on 12 Sep, 2024 .

Specifications of Caribbean Princess

•   Itineraries
•   Review
•   Wiki

Caribbean Princess Itineraries

Caribbean princess review, review of caribbean princess.

The 2004-built Caribbean Princess cruise ship is the 6th Grand-class Princess Cruises liner, with sisterships Crown , Diamond , Golden (Pacific Adventure) , Grand , Emerald , Ruby , Star (Pacific Encounter) and Sapphire .

The vessel (IMO number 9215490) is currently Bermuda- flagged (MMSI 310423000) and registered in Hamilton .

History - construction and ownership

Princess Cruises is a USA-based passenger shipping company headquartered in Beverly Hills CA. A former subsidiary of P&O Princess Cruises (1977-founded), in 2003, the company merged with Carnival Corporation - the world's largest cruise shipowner. Among Princess Cruise Lines Ltd's assets is the Caribbean private island resort Princess Cays (on Bahamas Eleuthera Island's southern end), located approx 80 km (50 mi) from Nassau .

The 2600-passenger ship Caribbean Princess underwent a major drydock refit in early 2009 when were added facilities available on the younger fleet mates Crown, Emerald and Ruby. Now passengers spend hours sitting in the cosy, patio-style seating places, sipping coffee, reading, playing board games and watching occasional performers, ranging from a Cirque-type cube-spinner to a BMX biker. The new Piazza-Vines Wine Bar is the place to try over thirty wines by the glass while snacking on artisan cheeses, sushi and tapas. Of the changes, the most remarkable and appreciated, is the transformation of the former atrium into a new 3-deck-high, street-cafe-style Piazza - home to the International Cafe (a combination bakery, deli and coffee shop), Vines Wine & Seafood Bar, the Internet Cafe & Library, and an amusement zone.

Decks and Cabins

Most Caribbean Princess staterooms (1569 total, in 34 grades) are 170-ft2 balcony cabins (675). Almost 80% of the outside accommodations have private step-out balconies. Wheelchair-accessible cabins are 25. The largest accommodations are the Grand Suites (615 ft2 / 57 m2 with terrace sized 115 ft2 / 11 m2).

The boat has 18 decks , of which 15 are passenger-accessible and 9 with cabins.

Shipboard dining options - Food and Drinks

Caribbean Princess features three dining rooms, all with twinkling lights on their ceilings and tasteful, Caribbean-themed menu. The Palm is for fixed-seating dining, while Island and Coral are for passengers who have chosen "Anytime Dining". Reservations are available but are not required. Coral also welcomes guests for waiter-service breakfast and lunch. Rotating menu options include soups, appetizers, mains and desserts. There are also signature pasta and choices like Caesar salad and salmon. The healthy Lotus Spa selections are low in sodium and fat. Cafe Caribe and Horizon Court look identical and are open all day long. The Horizon section serves as a lido buffet restaurant and features breakfast buffets. Lunch choices may include unusual dishes like peanut butter sandwiches and fried bananas. 

Follows the complete list of Caribbean Princess restaurants and food bars.

• Island Restaurant (ship's aft Dining Room; dinner only - offers “Anytime Dining” between 5:30 p.m. -10 p.m.)
• Crown Grill (160-seat steakhouse/seafood restaurant, reservations recommended; on select days serves British Pub Lunch, complimentary)
• Coral Restaurant (ship's forward Dining Room for Breakfast 7-9 a.m., Lunch 12-1:30 p.m., Afternoon Tea 3:30-4:30 p.m.; features “Anytime Dining” for Dinner between 5:30-8 p.m. or 8-10 p.m.)
• Palm Restaurant (dinner only aft Dining Room; with 2 fixed seatings at 6 p.m. or 8:15 p.m.)
• Sabatini’s Restaurant (Italian specialty restaurant; reservations recommended)
• The Salty Dog Grill (replacing Trident Grill, self-service, complimentary fast food bar)
• World Fresh Marketplace (replacing Horizon Court, self-service buffet restaurant, complimentary)
• Planks BBQ and Steamers Seafood (replacing Cafe Caribe, aft self-service buffet restaurant)
• Slice (formerly Pizzeria, with west and East Coast offerings, classic Neapolitan-style pizza)
• Coffee & Cones (formerly Scoops, offers free ice cream cones, treats of gourmet ice cream sandwiches, specialty coffee)

In April 2024 Princess Cruises announced that starting September 14th (2024) fleetwide would be introduced 3 distinct main dining/dinner table service options – Traditional, Reservable, and Walk-in Anytime. By the new program (introduced with Sun Princess) on each ship are allocated 3 separate dining rooms - one for Traditional dining (offering early and late dinner seating), one with Reservable times, and one for Walk-in Anytime (open-seating). The new options are integrated with the OceanNow service, allowing anything to be ordered anytime, and delivered anywhere onboard.

Shipboard entertainment options - Fun and Sport

The Princess Theater is the main venue on Caribbean Princess for comedy acts and production shows with a variety of music and selections appealing to a broad mix of ages. Each of the ship's venues has a different offering. Crooners feature music trivia contests and a pianist. Explorer's Lounge hosts events for everything from Wii sports tournaments to art auctions, plus comedy shows and magicians.

The Piazza offers various demonstrations, circus-lite acts and musical performances throughout the day. 

Club Fusion is a part game show, part nightclub venue. Skywalker Nightclub, Princess' trademark, hosts the 70s-, the 80s- and the 90s-inspired nights and a few nights with a variety of modern music.

For low-key dancing, head to the Wheelhouse Bar, which hosts combos playing standards and soft rock.

Follows the complete list of Caribbean Princess lounges, clubs and other entertainment venues for kids, teens and adults.

• The Piazza Atrium (3-deck open floor area; features live performances entertainment and lobby Bar Piazza)
• Princess Fine Arts Gallery; Photo Gallery & Shop; Platinum Studio
• International Cafe (24-hour specialty coffee bar and patisserie)
• Vines Bar (wine/seafood/sushi bar)
• Library (with Internet stations); Internet Cafe (24-hour)
• Princess Caribbean Theatre (2-level musical and show productions; hosts workshops, seminars, game shows)
• Churchill Lounge & Bar (smoking lounge and sports bar)
• Calypso Cove Shop; Essence Shop; Limelight Shop; Meridian Bay Shop; Facets Shop
• Princess Caribbean Grand Casino
• Crooners Lounge & Bar (live music; also used for seminars)
• Explorers Lounge & Bar (disco/show lounge; hosts karaoke, comedy, game shows and art auctions)
• Wheelhouse Bar (piano bar during the day and an English pub nightly).
• Club Fusion Lounge (hosts dance classes and quizzes, after 7:30 p.m. becomes Disco & Nightclub)
• Scoops Bar (Sundaes Ice Cream Bar, complimentary)
• Outrigger Bar (poolside bar); Tradewinds Bar
• Caribbean’s Lotus Spa complex; Beauty Salon; Fitness Center (with Aerobics Studio)
• Hearts & Minds (Wedding Chapel)
• Movies Under the Stars (LED screen outdoor cinema)
• Video Games Arcade; Teen Center; Youth Center with Paddling Pool and outdoor playing areas
• The Sanctuary (adult-only open-air area)
• Camp Discovery (Youth Center)
• Calypso Reef & Pool area; Neptune’s Reef & Pool area; Pirate’s View Pool area (served by Morgan’s Bar)
• The Skywalker (Jogging Track); Sports Court (volleyball, basketball, European football); Princess Links mini golf course, Cybergolf simulator
• Skywalkers Disco & Nightclub

Reef Splash Zone (kids aquapark / without waterslides) was added during drydock refurb 2019. Read more in the ship's Wiki section .

Itineraries

Caribbean Princess itinerary program is based on seasonal deployment in Europe (voyages out of Southampton England UK ) and in the Caribbean (roundtrips from Port Canaveral/Fort Lauderdale Florida USA ). When changing regions (in spring and fall), the ship offers 2-week-long Transatlantic crossings between Europe and the USA (RepositionCruises.com).

Photos of Caribbean Princess

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Other Princess Cruises cruise ships

• Coral Princess
• Crown Princess
• Diamond Princess
• Discovery Princess
• Emerald Princess
• Enchanted Princess
• Grand Princess
• Island Princess
• Majestic Princess
• Regal Princess
• Royal Princess
• Ruby Princess
• Sapphire Princess
• Sky Princess
• Star Princess
• Sun Princess

Caribbean Princess Wiki

Princess Cruises Caribbean ship belongs to company's Grand-class liners ( Fincantieri Monfalcone -built), with (same-designed) sisterships Crown  and  Emerald . The ship is slightly bigger than the other (similarly-designed) Grand-Class liners  Star (now Pacific Encounter) ,  Golden (now Pacific Adventure)  and  Grand . The reason for this is the additional cabin deck (Riviera Deck). The vessel also has no sliding roof to cover the swimming pool area as this liner was planned for exclusively Caribbean itineraries.

Ship's christening ceremony was on April 2, 2004, held in  Fort Lauderdale (Port Everglades, Florida) , from where also started the inaugural cruise (maiden voyage). Ship's godmother was Jill Whelan - US actress, best known for her role of Vicki Stubing in the 80's TV series "The Love Boat". The vessel was the biggest one in the fleet right until June 2013, when Royal Princess  entered into service.

Fun fact: Caribbean Princess is the first cruise vessel to have an open-air theatre/ outdoor movie screen (named "Movies under the Stars").

Ship's European maiden season was based on homeport Southampton England . Then, it was repositioned to  NYC New York  to operate Fall Foliage cruises to New England, then relocated back to Fort Lauderdale for roundtrip Caribbean itineraries. In April 2013, the liner was deployed back to Europe for the British Isles and various Northern European itineraries in Baltic Sea.

In early-September 2018, Caribbean Princess became fleet's first vessel with installed  Carnival Corporation's OceanMedallion technology  (wearable devices allowing passengers access to "virtual concierge" services and amenities, as well as interactive entertainment). The new technology also includes the MedallionNet - Wi-Fi connectivity via access points installed in every stateroom. Passengers on MedallionClass cruise liners experience land-like connection quality allowing streaming of movies, music, videos, video phone calls, real-time sharing on social media platforms.

Panama Canal cruise itineraries 2017

In 2017, Caribbean Princess made her maiden season of  Panama Canal transition cruises  through the new locks. The ship operated on the 10-day itinerary (with partial transits through the new Agua Clara locks) on roundtrips from  Fort Lauderdale (Port Everglades, Florida) . The ship's first ever transit was on October 26, 2017. Prices started from USD 1250 pp (double occupancy). This voyage also celebrated Princess Cruises' 50th anniversary of the 1967 crossing (world's first ever on passenger ship).

The fleet mates  Coral  and  Island  continued to transit the canal through the 3 old locks (Pedro Miguel, Miraflores, Gatun). The new locks were officially inaugurated on June 26, 2016. They are the result of a 9-year (USD 5,2 billion) construction project.

USA to Greenland itinerary 2019

A new Greenland cruise roundtrip from USA (NYC New York ) was revealed in January 2018 for the Princess Cruises Caribbean ship.

• The cruise departure was scheduled for August 19, 2019.
• The 16-days long itinerary's ports of call were in Greenland (Nanortalik, Nuuk, Qaqortoq) and Canada (Halifax, Sydney, St Johns).
• Cruise prices started from USD 2,500 pp (double occupancy Inside Cabin rate) plus additional USD 220 in Gov taxes and port fees.

Caribbean Princess refurbishment 2019 review

During drydock 2019 refurbishment (in June, done in Freeport Bahamas ) on the ship was installed fleet's first-ever waterpark - Reef Splash Zone (without waterslides!). Located aft-portside on Deck 17/Sports Deck (beneath the ramp leading to Skywalkers Nightclub on Deck 18), the water park was added as a new section to the original aft swimming pool (Pirate's View). The redesigned area now includes a large-sized Splashpad (outdoor water playground) fitted with splash pool, water cannons, water sprays, showers, interactive whale-like structure (with a "raining" fluke). The surrounding lounging area (designed for families with kids) was updated with new patio furniture (comfortable sectionals, chairs, sunloungers, padded garden couches with tables), new fixtures and finishes. The existing swimming pool, whirlpool hot tub (large outdoor Jacuzzi) and poolside bar (Morgan's Bar) were also renovated.

The newly-added Game Zone hosts family fun competitions and features oversized backyard games (the likes of Jenga, Cornhole, Connect Four). At Morgan's Bar (kids-friendly) parents can enjoy mocktails and cocktails. The surrounding lounge area is furnished with comfortable sectionals. The water-park is protected by wind panels (throughout the area) while its Shade Canopy (aft-starboard) is a sun-protected seating area covered with canvas canopies. The music system and lighting were upgraded (to the steps and swimming pool) and new wall lighting was installed for the evening open-deck parties, activities (including stargazing and educational kids programs) and themed events.

On Deck 16, the Spa complex (forward) was renovated, redesigned and updated with contemporary artworks and signage. On Deck 16 aft, at Camp Discovery Youth Center (kids-only complex for children 3-12 yo), the Outdoor Play Area was upgraded with an interactive water table for current itinerary/destination-themed fun activities.

Caribbean Princess refurbishment 2017 review

During the ship's 2017 drydock refurbishment (March 25 - April 5, done in Freeport Bahamas) resulted in the following deckplan changes:

• New kids area ("Camp Discovery" / kids and teen center) was added aft on deck 17.
• Pool deck's MUTS screen ("Movies Under the Stars" / 850-seat outdoor movie theatre) was upgraded.
• The number of interconnecting cabins (for families) was increased with an additional 87 pairs.
• (Lido Deck 15) "Horizon Court" was replaced by "World Fresh Marketplace". The ship's new buffet restaurant now has new decor, improved layout and more food options. Breakfast includes 24-hour cereal station, designer pancake station, hot cereal choices (like shrimp & grits and polenta porridge). Lunch includes hand-crafted sandwiches, regionally-inspired soups, a wide selection of meats (sausages, hams, roasted). Dinner includes family comfort foods, PB&J bar ("Peanut Butter and Jelly").  Nighttime buffet offerings include live-action cooking station (stir-fry, customized pasta, salads).
• (Lido Deck 15) the ship now has 2 casual specialty restaurants formed from the old "Cafe Caribe". Both restaurants are designed for families with kids. The first at-fee restaurant ("Planks BBQ") serves family-style meat planks (ribs, beef, sausages, chicken) plus sides (fries, chili, coleslaw, charred toast, dill pickles).  Dinner here is served and costs USD 12 pp.  Free buffet-style breakfast and lunch here include customizable breakfast bowls, signature soup, fresh-made salads, fork & knife sandwiches. The second at-fee restaurant ("Steamers Seafood" offers steamers with regionally sourced seafood (Black and Blue Mussels, Scallops and Sausage, Classic Clams, Crab-stuffed Flounder).  Dinner is served and costs USD 12 pp.  Free buffet-style breakfast and lunch choices include egg dishes and ramen bowls.
• Following the 2017 refurbishment, the ship's pool deck (15) offers 4 outdoor dining options. "The Salty Dog Grill" (formerly "Trident Grill") offers “The Ernesto” burger (best at sea), other specialty beef burgers (with handmade patties and buns), also Street Tacos (with grilled chipotle-lime chicken or roasted sweet potato, corn tortillas), fries and classic hot dogs. "Slice Pizzeria" (formerly "Prego Pizzeria") offers Neapolitan-style pizzas, Deep Dish Focaccia (with marinara, meatballs, cheese), California Artisanal Toast, Sliced Stromboli (calzone filled with deli meats and cheese). "Coffee & Cones" (formerly "Scoops Bar") offers gourmet ice cream sandwiches, free ice cream cones, specialty coffees and teas. "THE MIX" (formerly "Blackbeard’s Bar") / poolside drinks bar) was updated and redesigned.
• The specialty Italian Trattoria restaurant Sabatini’s (formerly "SHARE by Curtis Stone", on Promenade Deck 7) was redesigned, debuting a new menu with antipasti and handmade pasta dishes by celebrity chef Angelo Auriana, Sabatini’s new menu was implemented fleetwide in 2017. Angelo Auriana is an Executive Chef and partner in the Los Angeles' Italian restaurants "The Factory Kitchen" and "Officine BRERA". Chef Auriana's dishes are based on using old-world grains (like buckwheat and durum wheat) giving them the protein strength necessary to keep the house-made pasta's shape. He also uses numerous non-traditional herbs (like mints and marjoram).

All stateroom beds (a total of 3200 units) were replaced with the company's signature "Princess Luxury Beds”.

Carnival's Ocean Medallion technology was installed in September 2018.

First impressions: Is Royal Caribbean's new Utopia of the Seas the best Oasis Class cruise ship ever?

Editor's Note

Ladies and gentlemen, has Royal Caribbean done it again? Has the line's sixth Oasis Class ship , Utopia of the Seas, somehow managed to be even more innovative than its five predecessors? It didn't seem possible to me, given that I have a soft spot for the original two ships in the class, so I went into a recent Utopia sailing a bit skeptical. I emerged a convert.

The ship debuted as the second-largest cruise ship in the world (a tad bigger than its Oasis Class siblings but smaller than its gigantic sister ship, Icon of the Seas). Royal Caribbean has also dubbed it the "world's biggest weekend," thanks to its short itineraries — three- and four-night Bahamas and Caribbean voyages. This is the first time the cruise line has dedicated a brand-new ship solely to short sailings , which means Royal Caribbean has found plenty of ways for cruisers to soak up as much fun as they can in what little time they have on board.

But what's really underneath all of those superlatives? Here, I'll break down why I think Utopia of the Seas is Royal Caribbean 's best Oasis Class ship yet and what you can expect if you decide to sail.

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Understanding the Oasis Class

The lead-up to Utopia of the Seas' debut was somewhat overshadowed by the rollout of fleetmate Icon of the Seas in early 2024, but the Oasis Class ships were the original trendsetters.

When the first one, Oasis of the Seas, set sail 15 years ago, it was the largest cruise ship in the world . It was nearly 45% bigger than the next-largest ship in the fleet, Freedom of the Seas, in terms of tonnage and 46% larger in terms of maximum passenger capacity. It also introduced the cruise industry to a groundbreaking neighborhood concept, which grouped popular themed offerings together in different areas and helped to control passenger flow. (Since then, other lines — including Carnival Cruise Line and MSC Cruises — have developed their own versions.)

Within those neighborhoods, the class also delivered other industry firsts, including the first carousel, AquaTheater (a performance space featuring a pool for high-diving) and zip line at sea in and above the open-air Boardwalk neighborhood, as well as thousands of live plants tended by a resident gardener in the Central Park neighborhood . Both of these neighborhoods incorporate a central area of activity surrounded above by interior-facing ocean-view and balcony cabins — an idea pioneered on Voyager of the Seas in 1999 on the Royal Promenade , a mall-like indoor thoroughfare that has carried through to the line's newest vessels.

"This class of ship for Royal Caribbean has been a true game changer," said Michael Bayley, president and CEO of Royal Caribbean, during a media briefing on Utopia when asked about the evolution of the Oasis Class and why it remains so popular.

"It just consistently delivers every single time, and it ages so well," Bayley said. "We've invested in these ships, and we continue to invest .... just before the pandemic, we put almost a quarter of a billion dollars into one of the Oasis Class ships just to bring it up to speed. The reason why it works so well is size and neighborhoods. ... It's the space and the fact that the neighborhoods have been able to pull people together into spaces that they really enjoy."

In other words, Royal Caribbean struck gold with this type of ship.

Why is Utopia of the Seas the best Oasis Class ship yet?

Fun new twists.

Although the Oasis Class is still evolving after 15 years, Utopia of the Seas remains largely unchanged from the original Oasis of the Seas prototype. Royal Caribbean has taken passenger favorites from the first few Oasis Class vessels and carried them through, or removed concepts that have run their course and added some fun new ones in their place, on Utopia of the Seas.

The highlight of the new additions is a meal at the Royal Railway — Utopia Station . It's an immersive train-themed dinner theater restaurant that makes you feel like you're actually in a dining car with scenery passing by via LED "windows." Live actors carry out their antics around you, complete with sound effects and "butt-kickers," which jolt your seat to make it feel like you're really on a train. The experience has a capacity of just 96 passengers per night with a price — $75 per person — that's just as expensive as the venue is exclusive. Unfortunately, I wasn't able to snag a reservation during my sailing, but I was able to tour one of the train cars, and it does truly suspend reality.

The next major addition is the Pesky Parrot, a tiki bar along the Royal Promenade. It's home to Brian, a drunk animatronic parrot who hadn't yet arrived at his perch on my voyage. (I'm told he's already made his debut, though.) Don't know which of the tropically themed drinks to order? Roll the bar's cylindrical accordion-style menu to help you figure it out.

Pesky Parrot replaces the Bionic Bar , a gimmicky bar found on other Royal Caribbean vessels, featuring robotic arms messily mixing up cocktails that passengers order via tablets. Trust me: The results at Pesky Parrot are much tastier, immensely more personable and far less sticky than their robot-crafted counterparts.

Spare Tire is a food truck-style concept on the pool deck that offers a walk-up counter with reheated frozen items like cheese and pepperoni tortilla roll-ups, ranchero beef and cheese tortilla roll-ups, chipotle chicken sandwiches, Mediterranean veggie wraps and fried raspberry cheesecake pockets. Although the food is tasty (and free), I was disappointed that the truck's items were probably some of the least homemade on the ship.

Other new additions to Utopia of the Seas include an extra-fee shave ice stand at the back of the ship near the FlowRider surf simulator ; a two-deck Giovanni's Italian specialty restaurant, which replaces molecular gastronomy restaurant Wonderland and offers great views over the Boardwalk neighborhood; bright, airy and spacious Solarium Suites located above the ship's adults-only Solarium area; and Omakase, an exclusive six-seat, eight-course Asian dining experience that costs $129 per person.

What all of this means is that passengers are able to experience the best of what other Oasis Class ships have to offer, as well as some new additions that make Utopia of the Seas feel even more fresh and exclusive.

Short itineraries on a brand-new ship

Utopia of the Seas sails only short itineraries, so it offers a low-commitment entry point for people who want to try cruising but worry they might not like it. Because it's a new ship, it also gives those people a chance to try something modern and splashy, rather than settling for older hardware.

"The percentage of new-to-cruise that will sail on Utopia is fantastic," Bayley said. "It's a short product, so people don't have to commit so much time and money to a longer experience. It's a much easier weekend break. It's no big deal to really hop on Utopia on a Friday and be in the office Monday morning."

For me, a three-night sailing was just long enough to whet my appetite for more. Utopia of the Seas is crammed with so many activities, amenities and places to chill that you'd be hard-pressed to see and do everything during a voyage twice as long as the ones the ship offers. If other passengers are anything like me, they'll be back, which is exactly Royal Caribbean's goal.

Utopia is also currently the only Oasis Class vessel that sails short cruises out of Port Canaveral in Cape Canaveral, Florida — about an hour from Orlando. Voyages on Utopia of the Seas allow travelers to better utilize their limited vacation time by combining a cruise with visits to Florida beaches, the Kennedy Space Center, Walt Disney World, Universal Studios, SeaWorld and other nearby attractions.

"One of the reasons we put this brand-new Oasis Class [ship] into this market is that we really expect to see a certain amount of demand coming from tourists who are going in [to Orlando], either for ... Disney or Universal," Bayley said. "They can also package themselves a vacation, which includes a three-night, four-night [cruise] to Perfect Day."

More parties and live music than ever before

With Utopia of the Seas sailing short cruises, Royal Caribbean's entertainment team has had to reconfigure some of its offerings. The ship combines three new shows with energetic live music and more parties than any of the line's other vessels to date. The changes speak to what passengers want on shorter voyages — more partying and less sitting in one spot for large chunks of time. It all ties back into the long-weekend theme and the line's goal of helping passengers maximize their vacation time.

"Utopia is a taste of what, possibly, you could experience on maybe a longer itinerary," said Allison Rider-Davidoiu, Royal Caribbean's director of headliner entertainment, live music and enrichment, during an interview on board. "It was really important to ... go in a little bit of a different direction and have one party after the other to where you don't ever stop."

In fact, parties are so important on board that the ship employs a dedicated party squad, a new addition to Royal Caribbean's entertainment team. The goal of the squad members is to keep passengers engaged. There's also an entire team of hired "party influencers" who are simply meant to "keep the vibe going and look cool," according to Rider-Davidoiu.

In addition to the usual outdoor sailaway soiree, red-themed nightclub party and music-forward "street parties" along the Royal Promenade, some of the key celebrations on Utopia of the Seas include Senses, a pool deck party where cruisers will find house music and sunset scenes on the big screen; ReZolution, where passengers wear white and become living art through a series of high-tech projections; and Plunge, a daytime pool party with surprise giveaways, music and water guns that shoot Champagne.

Catering to adults who want to cut loose and relive their college days, Silent Toga is a silent disco where crew members hand out togas and show passengers how to wear them, and the Royal Kappa Chi afterparty is the place to find games of beer pong, Flip Cup and Quarters backed by the skills of one of three resident DJs. On my sailing, the latter shindig didn't end until 4 a.m.

Music is also a big focus on Utopia, with many passengers choosing their favorite live performers and returning to the same venues night after night to enjoy their performances.

"We've noticed guests on three- and four-day cruises, many times — as incredible as our shows are — they'd much rather gravitate toward live music," Rider-Davidoiu said. "So we put a lot of focus on getting the best bands and the best talent."

But that doesn't mean the ship's shows aren't phenomenal. In fact, that's far from the case.

Bridging the gap between party and production show is "The Effectors Homecoming Parade," a hybrid that takes place along the Royal Promenade. The large cast features six main characters: superheroes Pixel, Reverb, Lume and Captain Viz, as well as villains Crash and Burn. This latest installment of "The Effectors" trilogy of original shows — with the first two appearing on a small number of other vessels in the fleet — is a street party-style celebration of Crash's defeat.

"All In" is the main production show in the theater on each sailing. Royal Caribbean has pulled out the stops with high-tech lighting and sound, interesting props, jaw-dropping acrobatics and creatively timed LED screen animations. It also leans heavily on the massively talented cast of singers and dancers who perform hits from Bruno Mars, Camila Cabello, Gloria Estefan, the White Stripes, the Eurythmics and more.

Most impressive, though, are Utopia's high-dive and acrobatics show "Aqua80Too," held at the ship's aft-facing AquaTheater, and the "Youtopia Ice Spectacular," held in the ship's ice rink where professional figure skaters perform to well-known tunes in colorful costumes amid a series of fun projections. If you have to choose, these two are the ones to see during your sailing.

Bottom line

There often isn't much that differentiates new ships in a particular class from their predecessors, but that's not the case with Utopia of the Seas.

Its short itineraries make the ship a superb pick for weekend warriors or travelers with little vacation time, as well as anyone who's curious about cruising but who isn't ready to commit to an entire week on board. The vessel is also a great option for active travelers who enjoy live music and parties, and for fans of large ships who want a mix of tried-and-true favorites and the latest bells and whistles.

Find out more about Royal Caribbean:

• The ultimate guide to Royal Caribbean cruises
• Royal Caribbean cruise ship classes explained
• Royal Caribbean cruise ships by size
• Royal Caribbean cruise ships by age
• All you need to know about Royal Caribbean cabins and suites
• Royal Caribbean food
• Royal Caribbean drink packages
• Where you can cruise with Royal Caribbean
• How to find the best Royal Caribbean ship for you
• Royal Caribbean's Crown & Anchor Society loyalty program
• How to pack for a Royal Caribbean cruise

Grand Caribbean Cruise with Miami Stay

21 day cruise package.

Experience luxury cruising to the Caribbean’s most idyllic locations, featuring Bahamas, Mexico, Puerto Rico, Dominican Republic, Honduras and our picture-perfect Private Island plus a stay in Miami. These 6 incredible ports-of-call, never-ending turquoise seas and an exciting stay in Miami (with an Everglades airboat ride) will live with you forever. Cruise aboard the brand-new futuristic MSC World America, revolutionising luxury cruising with its trailblazing design. The Caribbean is what tropical dreams are made of. This joyous mosaic of islands beckons paradise-hunters with an explosion of colour, fringed by beaches and soaked in rum. Each island is uniquely special. Embrace Mexican sombreros, fiestas, tequila and Mayan culture on Mexico’s sparkling Caribbean coast stops of Cozumel (Playa del Carmen) and Costa Maya. Immerse yourself in the vibrant charm and rainforest of Puerto Rico (San Juan). Marvel at the stunning mountain scenery and huge palm fringed coastline of the Dominican Republic (Puerto Plata). Fall in love with the Honduran island paradise of Isla de Roatan - vibrant coral reefs, pristine beaches, and deep coves hiding shipwrecks and pirates of the past. Indulge in two days of Caribbean perfection on Ocean Cay, our special Private Island and Marine Reserve (Bahamas). Spend 4 days in Miami (Florida), including flexi-tours of this glamorous tropical holiday mecca and an Everglades tour with a Florida airboat ride spotting for alligators. Immerse yourself in the cultural diversity, glittering waters and spectacular panoramas of the Caribbean. Experience sophisticated American hospitality onboard this brand new luxurious ship. Everything is included in this amazing value package, premium luxury cruise, flights, Miami hotel, Miami flexi- touring and personalised transfers.  Themes include: Caribbean Cruise, USA & Canada Cruises, USA & Canada, Florida, Chiapas, Campeche, Departs from Miami, Ocean Cruise, Returns from Play del Carmen. + Show more

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Amazing experiences, day 1 depart australia & arrive in usa, day 2 tour miami, day 3 explore miami & yacht cruise, day 4 everglades airboat, day 5 board the msc world america, day 7 explore dominican republic (puerto plata), day 8 explore puerto rico (san juan), day 11 explore ocean cay private island (bahamas), day 12 explore miami, day 14 explore costa maya (mexico), day 15 explore isla de roatán (honduras), day 16 explore mexico (cozumel and playa del carmen), day 18 explore ocean cay private island, day 19 arrive in miami, fly home, day 20 – 21 arrive home, days at sea, ports and ship vary by departure date, msc cruises in detail.

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* Starting holiday costs, per person, for 2 people sharing, on selected travel dates (off-peak). Travel on other dates attracts a surcharge. As prices vary based on travel dates, be flexible with dates to get the best deals! Itinerary and vehicle types subject to change without notice. Subject to limited availability at these prices, after which higher prices apply, book now. Some governments and service operators have Covid vaccination requirements. Your included flights advised via email with 24 hours to select alternative flights, routing or airline (alternatives may be at a higher price). Included flights may not be the most direct routing. Arrive earlier/stay longer for specified airports only. Stop-overs are not possible. Subject to Booking Conditions, see Important Information before booking. © DISCOVER AUSTRALIA Booking Code: mp 497

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without requirements to quarantine or other Covid travel restrictions. There is now a trend of countries fully ending Covid border restrictions (eg scrapping test requirements etc), such as the United Kingdom and Scandinavia. More countries are expected to follow since all governments have detailed strategies to live with Covid and to enable their tourism industry to flourish again. # Relax - we will provide you with assistance with identifying any pre-travel requirements still remaining.

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Insurance cover can be very inexpensive, like only $150 for three weeks in Europe # . We strongly recommend taking out travel insurance with Covid cover. Following are some insurance companies: Medibank | TID | AHM | NIB Book now to secure the best deal and biggest savings. Use part of your Early Bird savings to pay for your travel insurance!

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Caribbean and Bahamas: Western Caribbean Cruise

6-night carnival horizon cruise.

From $658 per person* Includes government taxes, fees and port expenses of $130 - $132 per person

Carnival Cruise Line

On the south side of Grand Bahama island is designed exclusively for Carnival guests. It's perfect for adults, families with kids… everybody who appreciates fun and natural beauty. From the reggae rhythm to the action-packed activities at Dunn's River Falls, an Ocho Rios, Jamaica, cruise has all the elements of a blockbuster film - one where you're the star. Lastly, hop over to the Grand Cayman, go barefoot in the sand and be oh-so- elegant... all in one day. Enjoy laid-back British civility in a sun-splashed Caribbean tropical place.

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  executive member benefit.

Executive Members receive an annual 2% Reward, up to $1,250, on qualified Costco Travel purchases.

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Member Exclusive: Digital Costco Shop Card with every Carnival Cruise Line sailing†

Sailing Itinerary

Note: Cruise itineraries are subject to change. Please verify ports and times directly with the cruise line.

Port of Call Port of Call (Arrival, Departure)

The City of Miami known as the “Magic City” is located in Southeast Florida, in Miami-Dade County on the Miami River, between the Florida Everglades and the Atlantic Ocean. Since its incorporation in 1896, the City has grown tremendously, transforming it into one of the world’s renowned centers where people can work, live and play while enjoying a high quality of life. The City of Miami, known for its diverse culture and ethnicities is the largest municipality in Miami-Dade County. According to the 2000 census, it has a population of 362,470. By the year 2010 the population in the City is projected to rise to 390,191. Miami which is known as the Gateway to Latin America attracts a tremendous amount of foreign born people, resulting in a large Latin American population that includes Cubans, Nicaraguans, Colombians, Venezuelans, Puerto Ricans, Argentineans, Ecuadorians, Brazilians, Dominicans, Haitians and Mexicans. According to the 2000 U.S. census, the City has a 60 percent Hispanic population, a 22.3 percent African-American population and an 11.9 percent White/other population.

Celebration Key

Now — for the first time ever! — we’re building a new destination from the ground-up. And this one, nestled on the south side of Grand Bahama island, is exclusively for Carnival guests. It’s perfect for adults, families with kids… everybody who appreciates fun and natural beauty! So we’re marking this spot on the map where what you’ll find perfectly matches the onboard vibe folks love — when your ship pulls up, the vacation possibilities are expanded with unique island-style fun, relaxation and adventure. Get ready for unforgettable experiences like a mile-long white sand beach, freshwater lagoons, local Bahamian flavors and shopping, plus excursions and more when Celebration Key opens in 2025. But look for more details soon!

Ocho Rios, or "Ochee" as it is known locally, has experienced such explosive growth over the last decade that few people can recall the sleepy fishing village, bauxite port and stream-laced nirvana that once existed. Today it is a high density town of concrete hotels, condominium complexes, office blocks, multiple shopping centers and extreme traffic congestion but still one of the favorite cruise ship ports in the Caribbean. The economy of the town is based almost entirely on tourism.

Grand Cayman

Grand Cayman is the largest of the Cayman Islands, a British Overseas Territory in the Caribbean. George Town, its capital, is home to the Cayman Islands National Museum, dedicated to Caymanian heritage. The city is also a major cruise-ship port and site of the ruins of colonial-era Fort George. Beaches and vibrant coral reefs are the island’s hallmarks.

Onboard the Carnival Horizon

Carnival Horizon

Costco member reviews.

• Year Built: 2018

Double Occupancy Capacity: 3960

Designed to bring you closer to the sea, Carnival Horizon opens things up with outdoor spots like Havana Bar & Pool, SkyRide at SportSquare, and Seafood Shack, plus plenty of family- and kid-friendly spaces like the first IMAX® at sea. Custom staterooms, new and popular dining options, and even more opportunities to play, relax, and have fun make this new ship something to behold. Carnival Horizon is the future of fun.

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Onboard Activities

Activities & services (included in cruise).

• Disco/Nightclub
• Theater/Show Lounge
• Outdoor Movies
• Fitness Center
• Educational Programs
• Miniature Golf
• Pool - Children's
• Pool - Outdoor
• Sports Facilities
• Water Park Arena
• Water Slide
• Whirlpool/Jacuzzi
• Art Gallery
• Internet Center
• Children's Indoor Play Area
• Organized Age Specific Activities
• Teen Center or Disco
• Teen Programs
• Duty-Free Shops/Boutiques
• Safe Deposit Boxes

Activities & Services (available for an extra fee)

IMAX Theater

• Game Arcade
• Beauty Salon
• Fitness Classes
• Spa Services/Massage
• Sauna/Steam Room
• Bars/Lounges
• Babysitting
• Conference Center
• Dry Cleaning/ Laundry Service
• Infirmary/Medical Center
• Self-Service Laundromat
• Wedding/Vow Renewal

Main Dining Room

Main Dining

Main Dining Room:  Carnival's Main Dining Room brings you a full three-course menu in an experience that’s satisfying, but never stuffy. Drop in nightly and enjoy a rotating menu of delectable favorites like steak, roasted duck, scallops, prime rib, and, of course, sinfully delicious desserts.

Specialty Dining

Bonsai Sushi:  Dine amidst expertly pruned bonsai trees while enjoying sit-down service and an affordable menu of delectable catches, plus soups, sides, sakes, and desserts. This restaurant is available for an additional cost.

Bonsai Teppanyaki:  It's a meal, a performance, and it's definitely unforgettable. The Bonsai Teppanyaki experience is set to delight guests aboard Carnival Horizon. Take a little time out of your vacation to sit down to a selection of tempting appetizers, before the chef prepares a main course featuring selections of meats, tofu, fish, shrimp or lobster… right at your table. In the teppanyaki tradition — and Carnival's tradition of fun — expect an interactive, satisfying meal full of surprise and delicious delight. This restaurant is available for an additional cost.

Cucina del Capitano:  Italian-American dishes inspired by the recipes from our Italian captains’ and officers’ childhoods are served up family-style in a comfy, eclectic environment decorated like an Italian country home. Vintage images of our captains and ships adorn the walls, and there’s even a Captain’s table where you just might see the man himself dine. This restaurant is available for an additional cost.

Green Eggs and Ham Breakfast:  Sit down to a truly fantastical feast at the Green Eggs and Ham Breakfast with The Cat in the Hat and Friends™. Bright colors and patterns decorate your table, which features fun and unique menus. Feast! Feast! Feast! Lose yourself exploring a delicious menu where you'll find "Green Eggs and Ham," brightly colored fruit, gravity-defying pancake stacks, funky French toast, "Moose Juice" 'n' "Goose Juice"… and much more. (Classic breakfast offerings are available as well.) Breakfast is also the perfect time to meet and greet the stars of Dr. Seuss — characters will be around for special photo opportunities and fun interactions, making this a meal to remember. This restaurant is available for an additional cost.

Guy's Pig & Anchor Bar-B-Que Smokehouse/Brewhouse:  With choices like brisket, sausage, baby back ribs and dry-rubbed chicken, Carnival pros do the smoking right there over hickory wood, serving them up at your table. You're in Guy Fieri's house — Carnival Horizon has the world's first Guy's Pig & Anchor Smokehouse/Brewhouse. About the brews: this house of bar-b-que tradition doesn't just satisfy your hunger. Enjoy your meal with exclusive microbrews that are actually brewed at sea — plus live music and atmosphere to match. Tip: Come by and check out the lunch menu, its free. Dinner is available for an additional cost.

JavaBlue Café:  From the simply caffeinated to the simply sublime, nothing satisfies your coffee craving like JavaBlue Café, featuring fun twists on the hot and cold drinks you enjoy, plus a mouth-watering assortment of baked treats. This restaurant is available for an additional cost.

JiJi Asian Kitchen:  A modern dining spot inspired by a millennia-old society, Ji Ji Asian Kitchen serves up enticing dishes in an eclectic space that brings not just good food, but good fortune — and perhaps a surprise or two — to the table. You’ll enjoy your meal among Asian prayer rolls and Mongolian-inspired fabrics that infuse northern-country style into this unique culinary experience. This restaurant is available for an additional cost.

Seafood Shack:  A good seafood dish is quite the catch. However you like yours served — whether it’s on a roll, in a salad or atop a platter — Seafood Shack’s the place to cast your net. Imagine a New England-style seaside spot where you can take it all in, enjoying a great meal complete with a side of ocean view. This restaurant is available for an additional cost.

Steakhouse:  The menu features premium cuts of beef cooked to your specifications, as well as a fantastic selection of seafood, entrées, gourmet appetizers and an extensive wine list. Like any destination restaurant, reservations for Steakhouse are highly recommended. Your meal includes an appetizer, salad, entrée, side and dessert. This restaurant is available for an additional cost.

Steakhouse Selections:  Whoever said you can’t always get what you want certainly never said it on a Carnival cruise. Odds are that something from our steakhouse sounds good — filet mignon, New York Strip, lobster, or surf and turf. Now you can get these signature steakhouse dishes anytime you’re enjoying dinner in the main dining room. This option is available for an additional cost.

The Chef’s Table:  Treat your taste buds to a unique culinary event hosted by one of Carnival's master chefs. Your VIP experience begins with cocktails and hors d’oeuvres for a select group of 14, followed by a galley tour. The evening’s highlight is a full-service dinner of amazing appetizers, entrees and desserts not found on the regular menus. Seating is limited, so reserve early at the ship’s Guest Services desk. This restaurant is available for an additional cost.

24-Hour Room Service:  There’s a menu of salads, sandwiches and sweet stuff — completely free — during the day, plus hot food options available for a small fee. Late-night menu options (after 10 p.m.) are also available for a small fee.

Guy's Burger Joint

Casual Dining

BlueIguana Cantina:  The BlueIguana Cantina features freshly made tacos and burritos. Throw homemade tortillas and salsa into the mix, and you have a casual dining experience that will have you coming back for more.

Guy’s Burger Joint:  Carnival has teamed up with celebrity chef Guy Fieri to bring all the authentic appeal of a roadside burger shack to Guy's Burger Joint, the cool poolside spot for hot burgers and hand-cut fries. Try a fresh-off-the-grill burger Guy's way, or take it off-road to the toppings bar and truly make it your own.

Guy’s Pig & Anchor Bar-B-Que:  Enjoy a wide variety of BBQ favorites smoked right on board over hickory and cherry wood using Guy's signature recipes, rubs and spices. Throw in sides like Mac Daddy Mac n Cheese, Old Skool Potato Salad and Collard Greens and you've got a rockin' sea day on deck. Come by and check out the lunch menu, its free. Dinner is available for an additional cost.

Lido Marketplace:  Featuring an amazing variety of casual dining spots, each just a few flip-flopped steps from the last, Lido Marketplace always has a special something ready to satisfy your latest craving spectacularly. Here Carnival does it with dozens of what-to-eat options – great choices like BBQ, a deli counter, salad bar, an Asian station and a pasta bar, plus one spot where the chef serves up a different surprise daily! At Lido Marketplace, there's tons of indoor and outdoor seating made for gathering around, so you can enjoy your personal favorites in your favorite company for lunch or dinner, or even breakfast! Lido's also where you can find soft serve, frozen yogurt and fresh pizza 24 hours a day.

Pizzeria del Capitano:  Featuring piping hot slices right out of the oven, with your choice of toppings, Pizzeria del Capitano is the good kind of cheesy — the best reason to stop in for a taste of hand-tossed specialties made with fresh mozzarella. This place rolls out pizzas and Caesar salad 24 hours a day.

Seaday Brunch:  At Seaday Brunch, you can sleep in and still enjoy breakfast favorites, while early risers get a head start on lunch. You’ll enjoy huevos rancheros, special French toast, loaded mac-n-cheese and more ways to cook eggs than you may have thought possible.

Swirls:  Swirls ice cream entices with sweet frozen treats around the clock! Choose from chocolate, vanilla or strawberry. Open on Lido deck 24/7, frozen yogurt and soft-serve ice cream is a great way to beat the heat all day, or the perfect nightcap after a long evening of fun.

The Captain’s Pasta Bar:  Cooked-to-order and always fresh, delicious pasta specialties delight your taste buds at The Captain’s Pasta Bar. Open for lunch and located at Cucina del Capitano, this pasta bar is the perfect place to get linguine, penne, and more, all served in a quaint, authentic Italian setting.

The Carnival Deli:  Craving a little taste from the old neighborhood? Enjoy old-time favorites like a hot pastrami on rye, a grilled Reuben or roasted turkey breast on a country roll. Sandwiches and wraps are always hand-carved, and served fresh with coleslaw or relish and a kosher dill pickle.

• > Inside Stateroom
• > Ocean View Stateroom
• > Balcony Stateroom
• > Suite Stateroom

An Interior stateroom is a comfortable retreat, featuring a full private bathroom. Some rooms also feature pull-down beds – ideal for families.

Interior Upper/Lower (Category: 1A)

• Dedicated stateroom attendant
• Soft, cozy linens
• In-room safe for valuables
• Plenty of closet and drawer space
• Stateroom climate control
• Bathrobes upon request

Interior (Category: 4A)

Interior (Category: 4B)

Interior (category: 4c), interior (category: 4d), interior (category: 4e), interior (category: 4f), interior (category: 4g), interior (category: 4h), interior (category: 4i), interior with picture window (walkway view, obstructed view) (category: 4j), cloud 9 spa interior (category: 4s).

• Unique welcome ritual
• Priority spa reservations
• Unlimited use of Thermal Suites
• Complimentary scrub kit to use in our Thermal Suites
• Two complimentary fitness classes (per guest)
• Complimentary body composition analysis
• Exclusive discounts on treatments during port days
• Cloud 9 Spa bathrobes and slippers
• Upgraded Elemis in-stateroom toiletries

Cloud 9 Spa Interior (Category: 4T)

Family harbor interior (category: fa).

• Exclusive access to Family Harbor Lounge
• Daily breakfast and snacks in the Family Harbor Lounge
• A selection of board games, family movies, and video games in the Family Harbor Lounge
• Kids eat free in most specialty onboard restaurants
• Free evening of Night Owls babysitting service at Camp Ocean

Havana Interior (Category: HA)

• Exclusive access to Havana Pool area

Guarantee - Inside (Category: IS)

Category: IS This category can be booked for a special rate, guaranteed to you. Please note that the category is not associated at the time of booking with a specific stateroom, deck, bedding configuration or other particular settings. The assignment of an actual cabin will be performed during your check-in. The cabin can be anywhere on the ship.

These rooms with a view let you sail along to beautiful destinations while gazing at the sort of vistas you simply won't find anywhere on land.

Ocean View (Category: 6A)

Ocean View (Category: 6B)

Deluxe ocean view (category: 6l).

Deluxe Ocean View (Category: 6M)

Porthole (category: pt), cloud 9 spa ocean view (walkway view, view partially obstructed by solid steel railing) (category: 6s).

• Modified for guests with wheelchairs

Cloud 9 Spa Ocean View (walkway view, view partially obstructed by solid steel railing) (Category: 6T)

Family harbor ocean view (category: fe).

Family Harbor Deluxe Ocean View (Category: FJ)

Guarantee - Oceanview (Category: OV)

Category: OV This category can be booked for a special rate, guaranteed to you. Please note that the category is not associated at the time of booking with a specific stateroom, deck, bedding configuration or other particular settings. The assignment of an actual cabin will be performed during your check-in. The cabin can be anywhere on the ship.

Relax and admire the passing scenery from your stateroom’s private balcony.

Cove Balcony (Category: 7C)

Balcony (Category: 8A)

Balcony (Category: 8B)

Balcony (category: 8c), balcony (category: 8d), balcony (category: 8e), balcony (category: 8f), balcony (category: 8g), premium balcony (category: 9b).

Cloud 9 Spa Balcony (Category: 8P)

Cloud 9 Spa Balcony (Category: 8S)

Cloud 9 spa balcony (category: 8t), family harbor cove balcony (category: fm).

Havana Aft-View Extended Balcony (Category: HI)

Havana Premium Balcony (Category: HL)

Havana Premium Vista Balcony (Category: HM)

Havana Cabana (Balcony) (Category: HE)

Family Harbor Aft-View Extended Balcony (Category: FO)

Guarantee - Balcony (Category: BL)

Category: BL This category can be booked for a special rate, guaranteed to you. Please note that the category is not associated at the time of booking with a specific stateroom, deck, bedding configuration or other particular settings. The assignment of an actual cabin will be performed during your check-in. The cabin can be anywhere on the ship.

A spacious room, that includes priority check-in during embarkation.

Junior Suite (Category: JS)

• Priority check-in and boarding
• Priority dinner reservations for select specialty restaurants
• Priority main dining room time assignment (Early, Late, or Your Time Dining)
• Priority debarkation at homeport, and ports of call requiring a water shuttle or with arrival times later than 9:30 AM
• Two large bottles of water
• Pillow-top mattresses

Ocean Suite (Category: OS)

Grand Suite (Category: GS)

Cloud 9 Spa Suite (Category: SS)

Family Harbor Suite (Category: FS)

Havana Cabana Suite (Category: HS)

Guarantee - Suite (Category: ST)

Category: ST This category can be booked for a special rate, guaranteed to you. Please note that the category is not associated at the time of booking with a specific stateroom, deck, bedding configuration or other particular settings. The assignment of an actual cabin will be performed during your check-in. The cabin can be anywhere on the ship.

• Ship Name: Carnival Horizon
• Year Entered Present Fleet: 2018
• Ship Class: Vista Class
• Maximum Capacity: 5,101
• Number of Passenger Decks: 15
• Number of Crew: 1,450
• Officers' Nationality: Italian
• Ocean-View without Balcony: 254
• Ocean-View with Balcony: 887
• Total Inside Staterooms: 772
• Tonnage (GRT): 133,500
• Capacity Based on Double Occupancy: 3,960
• Country of Registry: Panama
• Total Staterooms: 1,987
• Suites with Balcony: 74
• Crew/Hotel Staff Nationality: International

Available Dates & Prices

Departure date, inside stateroom, ocean view stateroom, balcony stateroom, suite stateroom, departure date - 08/24/2025, departure date - 01/11/2026, departure date - 03/08/2026, departure date - 04/05/2026, terms & conditions.

*Price shown is per person based on double occupancy and is valid for select stateroom categories only. Click on the Terms & Conditions link below for details.

†One Digital Costco Shop Card per room/stateroom, per stay. The exact amount of the Digital Costco Shop Card will be calculated during the booking process. The Digital Costco Shop Card promotion is nontransferable and may not be combined with any other promotion. A Digital Costco Shop Card will arrive by email approximately 10 days after the start of your cruise. Click on the Terms & Conditions link below for additional information.

Ship's registry: Panama

Digital Costco Shop Card

This booking includes a Digital Costco Shop Card which will arrive by email one to two weeks after you return from your vacation. The Digital Costco Shop Card is a convenient payment option in our warehouses and on Costco.com.

Ship Rating

An outstanding luxury cruise experience with an exceptional level of attention to detail. Expect superb service from all levels of officers and staff.

A very good quality all-around cruise experience aboard a ship that offers a range of facilities and services.

A decent, unpretentious cruise experience, with a moderate amount of space and quality in furnishing and fittings.

A modest quality cruise experience with less attention to detail and service.

Expect a very basic cruise experience with minimal attention to service, hospitality and finesse.

Offers some, but not all, of the amenities and services associated with the next highest star rating.

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7 - Day Eastern Caribbean from Miami, FL

Cruise itinerary.

Day 1: Miami

Day 2: nassau, day 3: celebration key.

Day 4: Fun Day at Sea

Day 5: amber cove, day 6: grand turk.

Day 7: Fun Day at Sea

Day 8: miami.

Get to Know Carnival Celebration

Onboard activities.

Onboard Dining

change your itinerary

Independent Quest: Maps and Guides for Travelers ™

Grand Turk Cruise Center Terminal Port Guide and Review (2023)

Port overview for cruises to Grand Turk. Where cruise ships dock, things to do, how to explore on your own and with shore excursions.

By: Editor-in-Chief | Updated: May 30, 2023

The pier where cruise ships dock in Grand Turk is next to a stunning beach, inviting passengers to spend the day basking in the sun, swimming, snorkeling, and enjoying water activities.

Grand Turk is a small island (7 miles long and 1.5 miles wide). Inevitably there are only a few excursions to explore farther inland and just a few activities to enjoy.

Pier by the Beach, Grand Turk

Photo © IQCruising.com

Amongst top attractions, we have a few adrenaline-pumping favorites such as the 4x4 safari tour, the Dune Buggy drive, a Horseback Ride N' Swim, and the Catamaran sailing. For those who like cultural things, the excursions touring Historic Homes, the Old Town, and the Museum are the most interesting.

Where ships dock and the cruise center

Unlike most Caribbean ports (where cruise ships dock close to a principal town), you will only find the Grand Turk Cruise Center at the end of the pier. The Grand Turk Cruise Center is a large open-air cruise terminal dotted with excursion booths offering most of the possible tours and activities in Grand Turk. Most of these shore excursions can be booked online or onboard your cruise ship.

Tour Booth, Grand Turk

On the left side (north) of the Cruise Center, the traveler will find a very large Margaritaville bar, restaurant, with a huge pool and its signature retail shop - the Trading Post. Next to Margaritaville, you will find the Flow Rider surfing attraction that is exclusively offered as a shore excursion through the cruise lines. It is also on the North side that the most popular beach in Grand Turk is located - palm tree lined, with beach chairs on the white sugar powdered sand by the crystal clear turquoise water.

Cruise Center Beach, Grand Turk

This is where the overwhelming majority of cruise travelers go to and it can get a bit crowded when there are two mega-ships in port (never more than two ships can dock at Grand Turk). The beach is free and so are the beach chairs, but if you would prefer a Clam shell shade, floats, or snorkeling gear you can rent these at the Beach Rental Hut located on the beach. Naturally, at this beach, you can also get all the pampering expected in a Caribbean beach - massages, drinks, food, and all sort of vendors roam the beach.

If you prefer a more quite spot to enjoy the stunning sea in Grand Turk, there is a nice stretch of sand to the right side (south) of the Pier - known as South Beach - with less vendor hassle but also with free chairs. Close by, there is a Massage Cabana and at the southern tip, there is a Beach Volleyball Area. And, last but not least, the Editor's favorite spot in Grand Turk to enjoy a quick bite - the Beached Whale Bar & Grill .

NASA Splashdown, Grand Turk

Also on the south side of the Cruise Center, you will find a rarely mentioned historical exhibit commemorating the NASA Mercury space program and the historic 1962 Splashdown of the Friendship 7 capsule off the coast of Grand Turk. Besides interesting storyboards, the exhibit features replicas of an Atlas rocket, the Friendship 7 capsule and a three-dimensional replica of astronaut John Glenn in spacesuit.

Shopping in Grand Turk

The open area of the Terminal is surrounded by the inevitably ubiquitous shops to be found in all Caribbean: Dufry, Colombian Emeralds, Effy Jewelers, Diamonds International, Piranha Joe, Silver Emporium, Del Sol or Tanzanite International. But also by a few local souvenir shops and craft market.

Cruise Center Map

Photo Courtesy of Grand Turk Cruise Center

Grand Turk's Top Attractions

With so many facilities with such easy access, most cruisers do not venture much farther than the Cruise Center. However, either because you have been in Grand Turk before or just because you have an explorer's soul, this small island has a couple of sites to explore. The oldest town in the island - Cockburn Town - and the Salt Museum close by are offered on tours and the Lighthouse is a famous landmark. The pristine beaches are a must if you wish to experience how an idyllic deserted island feel like.

Even if you just enjoy the beach - and the ones by the Cruise Center are stunning enough - there a few other beaches that any cruise traveler should explore. One of the most popular is Governor's Beach , just 1 mile (1.6 kilometers) north of the Cruise Center, and considered by many as the best on the island. It is located close by the historical Governor’s mansion, Waterloo, hence the name.

This pristine beach with shallow water is lined by a thick Casuarina tree grove, ideal for shade and families but not for snorkeling. Although close to the pier, there isn't a walking path along the beach and the road is not well signed.

Taxi Dispatch, Grand Turk

IQCruising recommends a taxi to get there - $5.00 per person each way. At the Cruise Center, you will be offered a snorkel and swim package including transportation to and from the Governor’s Beach for $29.99 per person - this also includes snorkel gear (not of great use at this beach).

Shore Excursions or On Your Own

Unless you want to do something special that can only be done on an excursion - like Deep Sea Fishing, a Stingray Encounter on Gibbs Cay, Whale Watching Tours (seasonal) or a Glass-bottom Kayak tour - there are attractions that are perfectly feasible on your own. In fact, if you wish to explore Cockburn Town - the quaint capital of Turks and Caicos - and its attractions (the National Museum , Her Majesty’s Prison or the St Mary's Anglican Church ) a taxi ride costs around $5.00 per person each way. Even a trip by taxi to the Grand Turk Lighthouse , on the northern tip of the island, is affordable - $10 per person each way. The cruise traveler will find a taxi stand with metered fares by the east exit of the Cruise Center.

Grand Turk and the 2017 Hurricane Season

Although Grand Turk was hit by both hurricanes Irma and Maria in 2017, the cruise pier wasn't affected and the terminal area has been revamped. Fact: Carnival's Ecstasy was the first cruise ship returning to Grand Turk on November 1, 2018.

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The information on this page was accurate when last updated and published but changes may have occurred without notice. It is advisable to confirm details with local tourist information before planning your cruise, tour or excursions of Grand Turk. If any inaccuracies are found or if there are any suggestions to improve the content of this page please let us know.

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