Eastern Caribbean Cruises

When to Take an Eastern Caribbean Cruise

All Caribbean cruises operate year round because of the region’s temperate climate, with the months between April and October being the busiest because of spring break cruises, honeymoons, and summer vacations. If you prefer a more relaxed pace, you may want to consider off-season cruises, which may be less expensive as well. Furthermore, cruising in the off-season helps you avoid the treacherous hurricane season (June 1 to November 30), which can frequently disrupt itineraries and alter ports of call, particularly for eastern destinations that are less protected from incoming storms.

Cruise Length

The Caribbean is packed with different island destinations; far too many to visit in a single cruise. Because the islands are close together, eastern Caribbean cruise lengths can vary from seven to fourteen days. The most common length is seven days, and shorter voyages are rare from U.S. ports because of the time necessary to reach easternmost islands from different departure ports. As an alternative, however, several eastern Caribbean voyages depart from San Juan, the capital of Puerto Rico, including shorter itineraries (four or five days). Most eastern Caribbean voyages include several ports of call, and the longest journeys may stop at five or more different locations.

Cruise Line

Most major cruise lines offer eastern Caribbean itineraries: Carnival Cruise Lines, Royal Caribbean Cruise Lines, Holland America Cruise Line, Costa Cruises, Celebrity Cruises, Crystal Cruises, Princess Cruises, Radisson Seven Seas Cruises, Cunard Cruises, and Disney Cruise Line among them. Because different cruise lines frequently offer different itineraries and each line is known for different characteristics, you should always spend time investigating which line is most suitable for your vacation before booking a cruise. Cruise lines are always willing to provide free brochures and their websites are packed with both general information and specifics about each ship.

Embarkation Ports for Eastern Caribbean Cruises

Because most eastern Caribbean ports of call require a significant voyage just to reach them, there are a limited number of embarkation ports to choose from. Depending on the cruise line, ships depart from…

• Miami, FL: From this cruise line capital of the world, dozens of ships from various lines sail different Caribbean itineraries.
• Fort Lauderdale, FL: Close to Miami with similar options in a slightly less frenetic atmosphere. Fewer cruise lines operate from Fort Lauderdale.
• Port Canaveral, FL: Located along Florida’s Atlantic coast east of Orlando, many cruisers opt for additional days to experience Florida’s theme parks and other attractions.
• Tampa, FL: Requiring additional sailing time to reach eastern destinations, departures are limited from this western Florida port.
• Norfolk, VA: Conveniently located for both the northeastern and Midwestern states, this port offers a limited variety of different cruises.
• New York, NY: An excellent port for northeastern cruises, eastern Caribbean itineraries from New York invariably include several days at sea.
• Bayonne, NJ: Another northeastern port with limited itineraries from a select group of cruise lines.

Embarkation ports may be added to or deleted from cruise ship itineraries at any time. Cruise lines typically plan voyages up to three years or more in advance, however, so travel agents can frequently confirm the availability of any embarkation port and can let you know if new ports are being considered.

Ports of Call for Eastern Caribbean Cruises

Eastern Caribbean itineraries often focus on lesser known destinations away from the more popular western routes. Depending on the cruise line, your voyage may include stops at any of the following ports…

• Bahamas: Nassau and Freeport are the most frequent cruise ports in the Bahamas, and each one offers a range of shopping venues and cultural tours. Nassau is the larger port and has access to Paradise Island, home of the famed Atlantis hotel and casino.
• U.S. Virgin Islands: Itineraries that feature these islands frequently stop on both St. Thomas and St. John. Both islands offer exquisite national parks with gorgeous foliage and extensive trails. Golf trips, beaches, and snorkeling are other popular excursions.

Docked in Puerto Rico.

• St. Martin: Shared between France and the Netherlands, St. Martin (also called Sint Maarten) offers a unique blend of the two cultures with historical tours and elegant shopping paired with raucous casinos and vibrant nightlife.
• Haiti: Offered as a private stop by Royal Caribbean International, the secluded beach of Labadee offers a unique glimpse of local culture that other private islands often lack. Dancers, shopping, and dining are all available along with extensive children’s activities.
• Puerto Rico: San Juan is one of the largest and most sophisticated ports in the Caribbean and is frequently used as an embarkation port for eastern itineraries. Various historical tours are available, as well as premier golf excursions, a wide range of shopping, and other comprehensive packages.

While eastern Caribbean itineraries may offer less popular destinations, cruisers who visit this more exclusive region will be delighted to find an abundance of beauty, culture, and excitement that rivals any typical Caribbean port of call.

Though less well known, eastern Caribbean cruises are gaining popularity as more people discover the natural beauty and wealth of the region. Particularly popular from northern ports during the winter busy season, the eastern Caribbean offers a delightful tropical getaway suitable for any cruiser.

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