Dominica Cruises

Welcome to Dominica, often referred to as the “Nature Island” of the Caribbean, where lush rainforests, dazzling waterfalls, and steaming volcanoes await you. This stunning island boasts diverse wildlife and is a paradise for nature lovers, hikers, and adventure seekers alike. Did you know that Dominica is home to the world’s second-largest boiling lake? Yes, there’s a lot more to explore beyond the beautiful beaches! Cruising to Dominica allows you to experience all that this unspoiled landscape has to offer while enjoying the comfort and luxury of your cruise ship.

Top Cruise Lines Offering Routes to Dominica

• Princess Cruises: With a fleet of 17 ships, Princess Cruises has 6 vessels that explore the beautiful island of Dominica. The Grand Princess and Enchanted Princess are especially popular, known for their spacious staterooms and a plethora of onboard dining options. Departures most often occur from Fort Lauderdale or San Juan, providing a convenient route for cruisers wanting to immerse themselves in Dominica’s natural beauty.
• Holland America Line: This elegant cruise line features 11 ships, with 5 making their way to Dominica. The Eurodam and Koningsdam stand out for their stylish interiors and excellent onboard service. Most cruises depart from Fort Lauderdale or Miami, making it easy for you to join the adventure while you experience stunning Caribbean vistas along the way.
• Cunard: With a more intimate fleet of 4 ships, Cunard offers 2 grand vessels, the Queen Mary 2 and Queen Victoria sailing to Dominica. Renowned for their luxury amenities and refined experiences, these ships allow cruisers to indulge in elegance while cruising. Departures typically occur from Southampton or New York, making it an easy choice for those travelling from the UK or the East Coast of the USA.
• Royal Caribbean Cruises: This innovative cruise line boasts a fleet of 28 vessels, with 6 offering itineraries to Dominica. The Vision of the Seas and Rhapsody of the Seas are particularly noteworthy for their exciting onboard activities and entertainment options. Most cruises launch from San Juan or Baltimore, offering several starting points for your excitement-filled getaway to Dominica.
• P&O Cruises: This line features a fleet of 7 ships, with 2 of them sailing to Dominica. The Britannia and Ventura are known for their casual yet elegant atmosphere, delivering first-class experiences on board. Departures mostly take place from Bridgetown or Southampton, giving cruisers a convenient departure point as they head off to explore the enchanting landscapes of Dominica.

Luxury and Small Ship Cruise Lines to Dominica

• Oceania Cruises: With a fleet of 8, 5 ships from Oceania offer cruises to Dominica, including Insignia and Vista. These ships stand out for their gourmet dining experiences and personalised service that caters to discerning travellers. Departures frequently occur from Miami or Bridgetown, ensuring every detail is taken care of as you set out for Dominica’s breathtaking landscapes.
• Azamara Cruises: Known for its intimate cruising experience, Azamara’s 4-ship fleet features 2 visiting Dominica—Azamara Quest and Azamara Journey. Azamara is celebrated for its focus on destination immersion and longer port stays, allowing you to dive deep into the island’s local culture. Most cruises depart from Bridgetown or San Juan, providing the perfect launchpad for your island adventure.
• Seabourn: This luxury cruise line consists of 6 ships, with Seabourn Ovation venturing to Dominica. Known for its opulent ambience and exclusive experiences, cruising with Seabourn is an indulgent escape. Departures are typically from Bridgetown or Philipsburg, welcoming you to paradise with seamless travel.
• Silversea: Silversea features a fleet of 12, with 2 ships, Silver Shadow and Silver Spirit, calling on Dominica. Recognised for their high staff-to-guest ratio and deluxe accommodations, these ships offer a very personalised cruise experience. Departures occur most often from Philipsburg or Cartagena, ensuring an elegant and refined journey.

Must-Visit Harbours in Dominica

• Roseau: Dominica’s capital city is a vibrant hub of culture and history. When your ship docks, explore the local markets and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere. Don’t miss a guided tour to the nearby Botanical Gardens or take a short hike to the famous Trafalgar Falls, where you can admire the breathtaking waterfalls.
• Caribs Territory: If time permits, venture into the Caribs Territory, where you can learn about the indigenous Kalinago people. Experience the artistic craftsmanship of local artisans and enjoy a traditional meal that reflects the heritage of Dominica.
• Indian River: Near Roseau, the Indian River offers serene boat tours through tropical mangroves. Keep an eye out for various bird species and enjoy the beauty of this unspoiled natural habitat—it’s a lovely way to escape for a couple of hours amidst nature!
• Portsmouth: Known for its picturesque bays and crystal-clear waters, Portsmouth is an excellent spot for snorkelling or leisurely beach time. Engage with the local community and enjoy authentic Dominican cuisine at one of the seaside shacks—it’s a delightful slice of local life!
• Cabrits National Park: If you’re keen on hiking, this park offers a network of trails leading through lush rainforests, stunning vistas, and historical ruins, notably the remnants of Fort Shirley. The park’s biodiversity and natural beauty make for a memorable trek.

When to Sail to Dominica

Thanks to its tropical climate, Dominica is a year-round destination. Optimal cruising takes place from January to March, when temperatures range from 25°C to 30°C, ideal for beach days and outdoor adventures. April to June remains warm but starts to become humid, with temperatures hovering around 26°C to 31°C, making it an excellent time for explorations and enjoying local festivities. In the July to September period, expect slightly warmer temperatures, approximately 27°C to 32°C, along with increased humidity and occasional rain showers. Lastly, from October to December, temperatures drop back slightly to range from 24°C to 29°C, making for comfortable and pleasant conditions to explore the island.

The Cost of a Cruise to Dominica

A typical one-week cruise to Dominica typically costs between $1,200 and $2,600 AUD, while luxury cruises can range from $3,500 to $6,500 AUD, offering high-end experiences and exquisite dining options.

When dining on the island, meals can be found at local restaurants for approximately $10 to $25 AUD, and drinks such as local rum or beer generally cost about $3 to $8 AUD—a deliciously affordable way to enjoy the vibrant local flavours!

Alternative Regions to Consider for Your Next Cruise

If you’re pondering other remarkable destinations, consider these regions as exciting alternatives to Dominica:

• Saint Lucia – Famous for its stunning Pitons, lush rainforests, and vibrant local culture, Saint Lucia’s breathtaking landscapes and friendly atmosphere make it an alluring escape.
• Saint Kitts and Nevis – Known for its pristine beaches and rich history, this twin-island destination offers a mixture of relaxation and adventure, perfect for cruise lovers.
• Antigua and Barbuda – An idyllic getaway, Antigua boasts 365 beaches and rich maritime heritage, ensuring sun-soaked fun and cultural experiences during your stay.
• Grenada – Known as the “Spice Island,” Grenada offers lush landscapes, beautiful waterfalls, and vibrant cocoa plantations, making it enjoyable for nature enthusiasts and beach lovers alike.
• Martinique – Blending French and Caribbean cultures, Martinique has stunning beaches, rich culinary delights, and a plethora of outdoor activities perfect for adventurous cruisers.

So why wait? Book your unforgettable getaway to Dominica with Cruise1st and experience the breathtaking beauty, vibrant culture, and natural wonders of this enchanted island. Adventure awaits!