Antigua Cruises

Set Sail for Antigua with Cruise1st

Welcome to Antigua, a paradise in the Caribbean that boasts sun-kissed beaches and a rich history. This stunning island is famous for its 365 beaches—one for each day of the year! With its crystal-clear waters, lush landscapes, and vibrant culture, Antigua is an ideal destination for cruisers looking for relaxation and adventure. Whether you're interested in exploring the ancient ruins, indulging in fresh seafood, or simply lounging on the beach, there's something for every type of traveller. A cruise to Antigua offers a seamless way to access its tropical beauty, making it easy to unwind and explore this Caribbean gem.

Explore Major Cruise Lines Sailing to Antigua

• Princess Cruises: This renowned cruise line features a fleet of 17 ships, with 6 specifically visiting Antigua, including the Enchanted Princess and Grand Princess. Passengers rave about the top-notch onboard entertainment and world-class dining options that make sea days enjoyable. Most cruises tend to depart from Fort Lauderdale or San Juan, giving you excellent access to the Caribbean before arriving in Antigua.
• MSC Cruises: With a fleet size of 23, MSC has 5 ships sailing to Antigua, with the MSC Virtuosa and MSC Divina standing out for their modern amenities and family-friendly activities. These ships include entertainment for all ages, making them ideal for those cruising with family. Departures are commonly from Miami or Pointe-à-Pitre, ensuring an easy start to your Caribbean adventure.
• P&O Cruises: Offering a fleet of 7 ships, P&O has 5 that touch the shores of Antigua: Arvia and Britannia. The ships are well-known for providing high-quality service and various onboard activities. With common departures from Bridgetown, P&O cruises cater to a broad range of tastes, from relaxation to active pursuits in the tropics.
• Holland America Line: With 11 ships, Holland America features 6 that make their way to Antigua, most notably Eurodam and Koningsdam. Renowned for their focus on natural beauty and cultural enrichment, these ships provide fantastic shore excursions and culinary experiences. Most sailings depart from Fort Lauderdale or Miami, setting the stage for an exciting Caribbean cruise!
• Norwegian Cruise Line: This popular cruise line operates a fleet of 20, with 10 ships featuring Antigua on their itineraries—including Norwegian Breakaway and Norwegian Jewel. NCL ships are celebrated for their "freestyle cruising" concept, which gives guests the flexibility to dine and engage in activities at their own pace. Departures usually occur from Miami or New York, offering a variety of starting points for your journey.

Luxury and Small Ship Cruises to Antigua

• Explora Journeys: With a fleet of 2, both of Explora's ships—EXPLORA I and EXPLORA II—offer itineraries that include Antigua. Renowned for their emphasis on sustainable luxury and exceptional service, these ships are perfect for travellers seeking a more intimate cruising experience. Cruises typically depart from Miami or San Juan, combining comfort with adventure.
• Oceania Cruises: Specialising in upscale experiences, Oceania has a fleet of 8, with 6 ships that visit Antigua. Notable vessels include Vista and Sirena, both famed for their exquisite dining and locally-inspired shore excursions. Departures often occur from Miami or Civitavecchia (Rome), allowing guests to enjoy a taste of the Mediterranean before arriving in the Caribbean!
• Seabourn: With a fleet of 6 ships, Seabourn's only vessel visiting Antigua is the Seabourn Ovation. Guests are treated to a luxury experience combined with all-inclusive amenities, ensuring a lavish journey. Departures are generally from Bridgetown or Philipsburg, so you can soak in the Caribbean charm on your way to Antigua.
• Azamara Cruises: This line features 4 ships, with 3 visiting Antigua, namely Azamara Quest and Azamara Onward. Azamara excels in providing immersive destination experiences with longer stays in port, allowing for more in-depth exploration. Most cruises depart from Miami or San Juan, perfect for cruisers eager to experience all that Antigua has to offer.
• Silversea: With 12 ships in their fleet, Silversea has 4 that choose Antigua—the Silver Moon and Silver Ray are among them. Known for their all-suite accommodations and exceptional service, Silversea caters to luxury travellers seeking intimate and high-quality cruising experiences. Departures are common from Bridgetown or Fort Lauderdale, setting a luxurious tone for your Caribbean adventure.

Top Havens to Discover in Antigua

• Antigua: The island itself is a paradise for sun-seekers and adventure lovers alike. Cruise passengers can spend their day exploring the island’s stunning beaches or hiking to the iconic Shirley Heights for spectacular views and the chance to enjoy a local barbecue. Don't forget to check out the unique historical sites, such as the Nelson's Dockyard National Park, where you can learn about Antigua's colonial past.
• St. John's: As the capital city, St. John's offers a lively atmosphere filled with shopping, dining, and historical sites. When you dock here, explore the vibrant market or visit St. John's Cathedral for its impressive architecture and picturesque views. A guided tour can help you discover hidden gems in the area and sample local delicacies at restaurants.
• Falmouth Harbour: Known for its beautiful yachts and sailing culture, Falmouth Harbour is perfect for relaxing by the waterfront or hopping on a sailing tour. While docked in this charming harbour, take a walk along the waterfront promenade, enjoy a cocktail at a seafront bar, or explore the nearby shops and galleries featuring local artists.
• English Harbour: This historic harbour has a rich naval history that can still be felt today. Cruise passengers can wander through the beautifully preserved Nelson's Dockyard, visit the various marine shops, or hop on a historical tour. Be sure to catch the sunset views from the cliffs overlooking the harbour—a sight not to be missed!

Harbours Typically Visited Before or After Antigua

• Bridgetown, Barbados: Known for its lively atmosphere and beautiful beaches, Bridgetown is a fantastic port for cruisers looking to explore Caribbean culture. Visitors can tour the historic Bridgetown Garrison or shop for local crafts and rum at the vibrant markets. Any beach lover will find themselves falling in love with the golden sands!
• San Juan, Puerto Rico: A blend of rich history and modern flair, San Juan is filled with colorful buildings and historic forts. While docked, explore Old San Juan, indulge in local cuisine, and stop by El Morro to take in stunning views of the sea.
• Miami, Florida: Renowned for its vibrant nightlife and art deco architecture, Miami serves as a lively departure port. Cruise passengers can explore diverse neighborhoods, take a stroll along South Beach, or sample the local Cuban cuisine before sailing away.
• Fort Lauderdale, Florida: Often dubbed the "Venice of America," Fort Lauderdale is known for its expansive canal system. Cruisers might enjoy a boat tour, visit the Bonnet House Museum and Gardens, or relax by the beach before setting sail to Antigua.
• Castries, St. Lucia: As the capital of St. Lucia, Castries offers charming views with lively markets and beautiful beaches. While docked, explore the famous duty-free shopping spots, visit the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception, or take a short beach break for relaxation.

When to Cruise to Antigua

Each season offers a different charm when it comes to cruising to Antigua. From January to March, expect temperatures between 24-28°C, making it perfect for beach activities and outdoor exploration. April to June sees slightly warmer temperatures around 26-30°C, ideal for those wanting to soak up the sun. July to September is typically the hottest period, with temps reaching up to 31°C, great for lounging on the beach! Lastly, the months of October to December can cool down to about 25-29°C but are still wonderful for exploring and enjoying local festivities.

Cost Overview for Cruises to Antigua

The adventure of a week-long cruise to Antigua usually costs between $1,300 to $2,500 AUD, while a two-week getaway might set you back between $2,600 to $5,000 AUD. For those looking at luxury options, expect prices to start around $4,500 AUD for a week and around $9,000 AUD for two weeks. Dining ashore is generally affordable, ranging from $15-40 AUD for a local meal, while popular drinks can average about $8-15 AUD—giving you all the opportunities to indulge while still enjoying the beautiful surroundings!

Alternative Regions Worth Considering

If you're considering a cruise to Antigua, you might also want to check out these captivating alternatives:

• Caribbean: Home to numerous stunning islands, the Caribbean promises diverse cultures and beautiful landscapes, perfect for a relaxing beach holiday!
• Bahamas: Known for its crystal-clear waters and colourful marine life, the Bahamas is a haven for snorkelling and diving enthusiasts alike.
• Barbados: Offering a unique blend of British heritage and tropical paradise, Barbados is ideal for those looking to explore local culture while indulging in sun-soaked beach days.
• Grenada: Renowned as the "Spice Island," Grenada offers a rich culinary scene, beautiful waterfalls, and lush rainforests—perfect for adventurers!
• Jamaica: Famous for its reggae music and stunning beaches, Jamaica provides a vibrant culture and rich history, perfect for cruisers eager to explore!

Ready to set sail on an unforgettable journey to Antigua? Let Cruise1st guide you to this Caribbean jewel, where adventure and relaxation come together for a holiday of a lifetime!