Dominica Cruises

Discover the Natural Beauty of Dominica on Your Next Cruise

Welcome to Dominica, a tropical paradise located in the Caribbean known for its rugged coastline, lush rainforests, and stunning natural landscapes. Dubbed the "Nature Island," Dominica offers visitors a wealth of outdoor adventures, from hiking in pristine national parks to relaxing in natural hot springs. Fun fact: Dominica is home to the world’s second-largest boiling lake, a unique geothermal feature that’s definitely worth seeing! Cruising to Dominica provides the perfect opportunity to explore its natural wonders, vibrant culture, and warm hospitality—all while enjoying the comfort of your cruise ship.

Top Major Cruise Lines to Dominica

• Princess Cruises: With a fleet size of 17 ships, Princess Cruises has 6 vessels—Caribbean Princess, Regal Princess, Crown Princess, and more—offering itineraries that include Dominica. Renowned for their excellent service and onboard experiences, Princess caters to a wide range of guests with diverse dining and entertainment options. Departures typically occur from ports such as Fort Lauderdale or San Juan, providing smooth access to this beautiful Caribbean island.
• Cunard: Operating a fleet of 4 ships, Cunard features 3 vessels—Queen Mary 2, Queen Elizabeth, and Queen Victoria—that sail to Dominica. Cunard is synonymous with luxury, offering fine dining and world-class entertainment onboard, allowing guests to enjoy an elegant experience throughout their voyage. Most departures take place from international ports like Southampton or New York, ensuring easy access to Dominica’s stunning landscape.
• Holland America Line: With 11 ships in its fleet, Holland America features 3 vessels—Eurodam, Nieuw Statendam, and Westerdam—that offer itineraries to Dominica. Known for premium service and enriching travel experiences, Holland America connects guests with the culture and culinary delights of local destinations. Departures often occur from famous ports like Fort Lauderdale or New York, providing convenient connections to Dominica.
• Royal Caribbean: This popular cruise line operates a fleet of 30 ships, with 5 vessels—including Freedom of the Seas and Anthem of the Seas—offering itineraries to Dominica. Royal Caribbean is known for providing a lively onboard experience, featuring exciting activities and entertainment for guests of all ages. Departures typically happen from major international ports like Miami or Port Canaveral, making access to Dominica a breeze.
• Celebrity Cruises: With a fleet of 15 ships, Celebrity offers itineraries to Dominica aboard 4 vessels—Celebrity Equinox, Celebrity Reflection, Celebrity Summit, and Celebrity Eclipse. Renowned for their modern luxury and top-notch service, Celebrity provides a relaxed atmosphere along with exceptional dining options. Departures usually occur from international ports such as Miami or Fort Lauderdale, ensuring seamless travel to the beauty of Dominica.

Luxury and Small Ship Cruising Opportunities

• Azamara Cruises: With a fleet of 4 ships, Azamara features 2 vessels—Azamara Journey and Azamara Quest—that frequently visit Dominica. Azamara focuses on immersive travel experiences, providing longer stays in port that allow guests to fully explore and connect with local culture. Departures typically take place from major international ports like San Juan or Bridgetown, making for smooth access to Dominica's enchanting scenery.
• Silversea: Operating a fleet of 12 ships, Silversea offers itineraries to Dominica on 4 vessels—Silver Spirit, Silver Whisper, Silver Shadow, and more. Renowned for their exceptional all-inclusive luxury experience, Silversea ensures a high level of personalised service and attention to every guest. Departures usually take place from ports such as Bridgetown or Philipsburg, allowing convenient access to the charms of Dominica.
• Oceania Cruises: With a fleet size of 8 ships, Oceania operates 4 vessels—Insignia, Regatta, Riviera, and Vista—that often sail to Dominica. Known for their fine dining and destination-focused itineraries, Oceania provides a luxurious atmosphere for travellers wanting an exceptional cruising experience. Departures generally occur from international ports like Miami or Tampa, making it easy to reach Dominica’s breathtaking landscapes.
• Viking Ocean Cruises: With a fleet of 11 ships, Viking frequently offers itineraries to Dominica aboard 5 vessels—including Viking Saturn and Viking Neptune. Viking is celebrated for its emphasis on providing guests with in-depth cultural experiences and intimate cruising. Departures generally occur from international ports like Barcelona or Bergen, ensuring smooth journeys to Dominica.
• Explora Journeys: This luxury cruise brand, with a fleet of 2 ships, encompasses both EXPLORA I and EXPLORA II, offering itineraries that include Dominica. Explora aims to provide wellness-focused journeys entwined with cultural immersion, making each travel experience meaningful and refreshing. Departures occur from international ports like Miami or Bridgetown, providing easy access to Dominica’s lush beauty.

Top Harbours to Explore in Dominica

• Roseau: The capital of Dominica, Roseau is renowned for its vibrant markets and charming streets. Cruise passengers can explore the local cultural attractions, including the Cathedral of Our Lady of Fair Haven and the Dominica Museum. Don't miss a chance to taste some local specialties at the Botanic Gardens, where you can also see the famous Sisserou Parrot, Dominica's national bird!
• Portsmouth: This lively harbour town is known for its historical significance and scenic views. Guests can take a guided tour of the nearby Fort Shirley, an 18th-century military fortification. Water sports enthusiasts will love the opportunity for snorkelling and diving at the famous “Champagne Reef” nearby, where underwater hot springs create bubbles that resemble champagne!
• Dominica (Morne Trois Pitons National Park): While not a traditional harbour, nature lovers can embark on guided tours from the dock to explore the beautiful Morne Trois Pitons National Park—a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Don’t miss the opportunity to hike to the Trafalgar Falls, where you can take a refreshing swim in the natural pools or enjoy the warm sulphur springs!

Top Harbours Typically Visited by Cruises Going to Dominica

• San Juan, Puerto Rico: A vibrant port city and often a staple on Caribbean itineraries, San Juan is known for its rich history and stunning colonial architecture. Cruise passengers can visit the historic San Felipe del Morro Fortress, stroll through the colourful streets of Old San Juan, and indulge in local cuisine at one of the many restaurants along the waterfront.
• Bridgetown, Barbados: Frequented by cruises heading to Dominica, Bridgetown offers a mix of beautiful beaches, rich heritage, and lively markets. Visitors can explore the Garrison Savannah and visit the historic St. Nicholas Abbey before relaxing on one of the island’s stunning beaches. Don’t forget to try a local rum punch during your stay!
• Philipsburg, St. Maarten: Known for its stunning beaches and lively atmosphere, Philipsburg is a popular port of call pre- or post-Dominica. Cruise guests can indulge in shopping on Front Street, bask on the famous Great Bay Beach, or take part in water sports like jet skiing or parasailing while soaking up the Caribbean sun!

Best Times to Cruise to Dominica

The best time to cruise to Dominica generally falls between December and April, when temperatures range from 25°C to 30°C. This period offers warm weather, ideal for beach outings and outdoor adventures like hiking and diving. If you're considering a visit during the May to November months, be aware that this time frames the rainy season with temperatures averaging between 23°C and 28°C, resulting in lush green landscapes and fewer crowds—perfect for those seeking a more tranquil experience!

Costs of Cruising to Dominica

A typical one-week cruise to Dominica usually costs around $1,200, while a two-week cruise may start from approximately $2,200. For those interested in luxury cruises, prices typically begin around $4,500 for a week. Dining in Dominica can be quite reasonable, with meal prices averaging between $10 and $25, while drinks usually range from $3 to $8, allowing guests to enjoy local flavours at an affordable price!

Alternative Regions Worth Considering for Your Next Cruise

If Dominica has caught your eye, consider these alternative regions for your next adventure:

• Montserrat: Known for its volcanic landscapes and warm hospitality, Montserrat offers unique hikes, incredible vistas, and a rich cultural experience.
• Guadeloupe: With its stunning beaches, lush rainforests, and vibrant French Creole culture, Guadeloupe provides a diverse experience for any traveller.
• St. Lucia: Famed for its stunning beaches and the majestic Pitons, St. Lucia is perfect for adventure seekers and relaxation lovers alike.
• Antigua: With its 365 beaches, Antigua is ideal for beach lovers, offering endless opportunities for relaxation and water sports.
• St. Kitts and Nevis: Known for its historical landmarks and picturesque landscapes, St. Kitts and Nevis invites you to explore lush mountains and charming towns.

Are you ready to experience the enchanting beauty and warmth of Dominica? Book your cruise with Cruise1st today and uncover the incredible culture, stunning landscapes, and delicious cuisine this tropical paradise has to offer!