Southern Caribbean Cruises

Unveil the Magical Southern Caribbean on Your Next Cruise

Welcome to the Southern Caribbean, a tropical paradise known for its stunning beaches, vibrant cultures, and crystal-clear seas. This captivating region encompasses some of the most beautiful islands in the world, such as Aruba, Curacao, and Barbados, each offering unique experiences and breathtaking landscapes. Fun fact: The Southern Caribbean is famous for its underwater coral reefs, making it a paradise for divers and snorkelers alike! Opting for a cruise through the Southern Caribbean allows you to explore multiple islands in ultimate comfort while indulging in the pristine beauty and local charm.

Top Major Cruise Lines to the Southern Caribbean

• Princess Cruises: With a fleet size of 17, Princess boasts 10 ships—Caribbean Princess, Regal Princess, Emerald Princess, Royal Princess, and more—that offer itineraries to the Southern Caribbean. Known for their exceptional onboard dining and entertainment options, Princess Cruises allow guests to immerse themselves in the diverse cultures of each destination visited. Most departures occur from international ports like Fort Lauderdale, Miami, or San Juan, offering convenient access to this tropical paradise.
• Royal Caribbean: Operating a fleet of 30, Royal Caribbean features 19 ships—Allure of the Seas, Symphony of the Seas, Freedom of the Seas, and more—that include itineraries to the Southern Caribbean. Renowned for their innovative ships and thrilling onboard activities, guests can expect everything from surf simulators to zip lines. Departures generally take place from major ports such as Miami and Fort Lauderdale, enabling easy access to the delightful islands.
• Cunard: With a fleet size of 4, Cunard includes 4 ships—Queen Mary 2, Queen Elizabeth, Queen Victoria, and Queen Anne—that visit the Southern Caribbean. Known for their luxury and impeccable service, Cunard offers travellers the classic elegance of ocean liners coupled with high-end amenities. Departures often occur from international ports like Southampton, for those seeking a luxurious and refined cruising experience.
• P&O Cruises: With a fleet size of 7, P&O has 6 ships—Azura, Britannia, Iona, Ventura, and others—available for itineraries to the Southern Caribbean. P&O is particularly noted for their friendly service and casual onboard atmosphere, which makes it a great choice for family vacations. Departures will frequently take place from international ports like Southampton or Barbados, offering a welcoming introduction to the region.
• MSC Cruises: With a total fleet size of 24, MSC sails 3 ships—MSC Preziosa, MSC Divina, and MSC Lirica—to the Southern Caribbean. Renowned for their family-friendly experience and a variety of entertainment options, MSC excels at ensuring guests of all ages have a fantastic time onboard. Departures typically occur from key ports like Miami and Fort Lauderdale, allowing for practical travel logistics to reach the Southern Caribbean.

Top Luxury and Small Ship Cruise Lines to the Southern Caribbean

• Silversea: Operating a fleet size of 12, Silversea features 6 ships—Silver Spirit, Silver Shadow, Silver Whisper, Silver Moon, Silver Dawn, and Silver Nova—that offer itineraries to the Southern Caribbean. Known for their all-inclusive luxury experience and high-end personal service, Silversea ensures that every aspect of your journey is exquisite. Departures typically occur from international ports like Bridgetown or Miami, putting you right in the heart of the action!
• Explora Journeys: With a new fleet of 2 ships, Explora offers both EXPLORA I and EXPLORA II for itineraries that include the Southern Caribbean. This cruise line focuses on creating immersive travel experiences, with a unique blend of relaxation and exploration. Departures most often happen from international ports such as Miami or San Juan, providing a seamless start to your tropical getaway.
• Oceania Cruises: A fleet of 8 ships, Oceania offers 6—Riviera, Marina, Regatta, Insignia, and Sirena—featuring itineraries to Southern Caribbean destinations. Renowned for their gourmet dining experiences and destination-focused itineraries, Oceania enables guests to delve into the local cultures and culinary delights of each island visited. Departures generally occur from international ports like Miami or Panama City, ensuring a smooth journey into paradise.
• Azamara Cruises: With a fleet size of 4, Azamara offers 3 ships—Azamara Quest, Azamara Journey, and Azamara Pursuit—that sail to the Southern Caribbean. Recognized for their immersive cultural experiences and extended port stays, Azamara allows guests to truly connect with each destination. Most departures typically occur from international ports like Bridgetown or San Juan, making it convenient to explore the Southern Caribbean.
• Viking Ocean Cruises: With a fleet size of 11, Viking operates 7 ships—Viking Saturn, Viking Polaris, Viking Sea, Viking Star, Viking Sky, Viking Ocean, and Viking Venus—that feature itineraries to the Southern Caribbean. Known for their cultural enrichment and smaller ships offering personalized service, Viking delivers unique travel experiences. Departures generally occur from ports like Bergen or Barcelona, giving guests wonderful access to the Southern Caribbean.

Must-Visit Harbours in the Southern Caribbean

• Bridgetown, Barbados: As the capital of Barbados, Bridgetown is a vibrant port with plenty to see and do. When your cruise docks, explore the historic Garrison Savannah, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, or take a stroll along the picturesque beaches. Don't miss the opportunity to taste the local delicacies at the bustling markets or enjoy fresh seafood at a nearby beachside restaurant!
• Oranjestad, Aruba: This delightful capital is known for its brightly coloured Dutch colonial architecture and stunning beaches. Experience the lively atmosphere at the local markets or relax on Eagle Beach, which boasts powdery white sand and crystal-clear waters. For a truly unique experience, visit the nearby Arikok National Park for hiking and exploring Aruba’s stunning landscapes.
• Willemstad, Curaçao: A UNESCO World Heritage site, Willemstad is famous for its distinct architecture and vibrant waterfront. While in port, stroll through the colourful Handelskade area, visit the local galleries, or explore the floating market for a taste of local fare. Make sure to stop by the Curaçao Maritime Museum for an insight into the island's rich history!
• Castries, Saint Lucia: The capital of Saint Lucia is known for its beautiful beaches and lush landscapes. While docked, visit the stunning Gros Piton for gorgeous views or explore the local markets for unique crafts and souvenirs. To experience local flavour, indulge in traditional cuisine at a nearby restaurant or cafe.
• Antigua: A stop not to be missed, Antigua boasts 365 beaches—one for each day of the year! Enjoy swimming, sunbathing, or snorkelling in the turquoise waters. Visit Nelson's Dockyard to discover the island's fascinating maritime history or consider embarking on a sailing excursion to explore nearby islands.

Top Harbours Typically Visited by Cruises Going to the Southern Caribbean

• San Juan, Puerto Rico: A vibrant capital city, San Juan offers a blend of rich history, culture, and beautiful landscapes. Visit the historic El Morro fortress, explore the colourful streets of Old San Juan, or sample delicious Puerto Rican cuisine at a local café or restaurant.
• Miami, Florida: Often a departure point for Southern Caribbean cruises, Miami boasts stunning beaches, a lively art scene, and delicious dining experiences. Spend some time exploring the famed South Beach, visit the vibrant Wynwood Walls, or enjoy the unique flavours of Little Havana.
• Fort Lauderdale, Florida: Known for its boating canals and stunning beaches, Fort Lauderdale offers guests a sunny gateway to the Caribbean. Enjoy the famous Las Olas Boulevard with its shopping and dining options, or take a scenic cruise along the coastal waterways to see the extravagant waterfront homes.
• Colón, Panama: This bustling port city serves as a key transit point and is an entry to the Panama Canal. Here, you can explore the historic Fort San Lorenzo, roam through the vibrant markets, or consider an excursion to the famed Panama Canal for a first-hand experience of this engineering marvel.

Best Times to Cruise to the Southern Caribbean

The ideal time to cruise to the Southern Caribbean is typically from December to April, when temperatures are warm and range from about 24°C to 30°C. These months fall within the dry season, offering perfect beach weather and a variety of local festivals. If you're seeking lower prices and fewer crowds, consider visiting during the off-peak months from May to November; however, it’s essential to prepare for rain and humidity as temperatures can soar to 32°C.

Costs of Cruising to the Southern Caribbean

A significant one-week cruise identifying the Southern Caribbean generally begins at around $2,600, while a two-week itinerary might reach approximately $5,200. For those opting for luxury offerings, expect prices to begin around $7,500 for a week-long cruise. Dining experiences throughout the region usually range from $15 to $70, while drinks generally cost about $4 to $15, allowing you to fully immerse in the delightful tastes of the Southern Caribbean.

Alternative Regions Worth Considering for Your Next Cruise

If the alluring Southern Caribbean has piqued your interest, consider these alternative regions for your next cruising adventure:

• Eastern Caribbean: Known for its vibrant islands and beautiful beaches, the Eastern Caribbean offers a bounty of adventures with stunning landscapes and rich local cultures.
• Western Caribbean: Featuring a wide range of destinations with gorgeous beaches and lush jungles, the Western Caribbean is perfect for adventure seekers and relaxation lovers alike.
• Central America: With a rich mix of ancient history, tropical wildlife, and diverse landscapes, Central America provides an unforgettable cruising experience for nature enthusiasts.
• Bahamas: A beautiful cluster of islands that promise stunning landscapes and crystal-clear waters, the Bahamas is a fantastic choice for those seeking fun in the sun!
• Mexico: Known for its vibrant culture, rich history, and stunning beaches, Mexico offers guests the chance to experience traditional cuisine and warm hospitality while discovering hidden treasures.

Are you ready to embark on a thrilling journey through the stunning landscapes and vibrant cultures of the Southern Caribbean? Book your cruise with Cruise1st today and get set to explore this captivating region!