Southern Caribbean Cruises

Experience the Magic of the Southern Caribbean with Cruise1st

The Southern Caribbean is a vibrant paradise renowned for its crystal-clear turquoise waters, sandy beaches, and lush landscapes. Picture yourself sipping a cocktail under swaying palm trees, exploring quaint towns filled with rich culture, or snorkelling in some of the most vibrant coral reefs in the world. Fun fact: the Southern Caribbean comprises beautiful islands such as Barbados, Aruba, and Curaçao, each with its own unique charm and attractions. A cruise to this region is the perfect way to discover multiple destinations in one trip, making the vibrant colors, sounds, and tastes of the Caribbean accessible all at once!

Major Cruise Lines Offering Southern Caribbean Itineraries

• Princess Cruises: With 17 ships in their fleet, Princess offers 9 that journey to the Southern Caribbean. Noteworthy vessels include the Grand Princess and Enchanted Princess. Not only do these ships cater to all passengers with a mix of relaxation and entertainment, but they also offer unique dining experiences that showcase local Caribbean flavors. Departures most commonly occur from Fort Lauderdale or San Juan, making it a breeze for cruisers to set off on their island adventure!
• MSC Cruises: This line operates 23 ships, with 5 that explore the Southern Caribbean. MSC Virtuosa and MSC Divina lead the fleet with the most itineraries in this region. The key features of these ships include their family-friendly activities and stunning pools for soaking up the sun. Sailings generally depart from Miami or Fort de France, providing plenty of options for your cruising calendar.
• Holland America Line: Out of their 11 ships, 8 set sail to Southern Caribbean destinations. The Rotterdam and Eurodam stand out, known for their immersive onboard experiences and culinary arts. Expect to depart most frequently from Fort Lauderdale or Miami to some of the most beautiful islands in the Caribbean.
• Royal Caribbean Cruises: With the largest fleet of 29 ships, Royal Caribbean has 16 ships visiting Southern Caribbean ports. The Serenade of the Seas and Brilliance of the Seas are particularly popular for their thrilling onboard activities and spacious accommodations. Most departures occur from San Juan or Fort Lauderdale, making it easy to reach your tropical destinations.
• P&O Cruises: This fleet consists of 7 ships, with 6 sailing to Southern Caribbean ports such as Arvia and Britannia. Known for their engaging family-friendly programmes and diverse dining options, these ships ensure everyone from kids to adults has a brilliant time onboard. Departures are often from Bridgetown or Antigua, giving you a great start to your cruise holiday.

Top Luxury and Small Ship Cruises to Southern Caribbean

• Explora Journeys: With a fleet of just 2, both EXPLORA II and EXPLORA I venture to Southern Caribbean islands. These luxury ships focus on personal service, unique dining options, and immersive experiences at each port, ensuring an unforgettable journey. Most sailings depart from popular hubs such as Miami or San Juan.
• Oceania Cruises: This line operates a fleet of 8 ships, with 6 offering itineraries to the Southern Caribbean, primarily the Insignia and Vista. Oceania is respected for their dedication to culinary excellence and cultural immersion. Departures mostly take off from Miami or Bridgetown, allowing passengers to delve into island life right from the start.
• Seabourn: The Seabourn fleet includes 6 ships, with 3 focusing on Southern Caribbean voyages. The Seabourn Ovation and Seabourn Sojourn offer all-inclusive luxury experiences tailored for discerning travellers. Most departures occur from Bridgetown or Philipsburg, setting the stage for an upscale exploration of the region.
• Azamara Cruises: With a fleet of 4, Azamara features 3 ships visiting the Southern Caribbean, including Azamara Quest and Azamara Journey. Azamara is known for their longer stays in port, allowing guests to immerse themselves in local cultures. Departures are most common from Miami or Bridgetown, offering a great base for Southern Caribbean exploration.
• Silversea: With 12 ships in their fleet, Silversea has 4 dedicated to Southern Caribbean itineraries, notably Silver Moon and Silver Shadow. They focus on small-ship luxury and personal service, making each journey remarkably intimate. Departures typically occur from Bridgetown or Fort Lauderdale, perfect for discerning travellers heading to paradise.

Top Harbour Destinations in the Southern Caribbean

• Bridgetown, Barbados: The bustling capital offers stunning beaches, historic landmarks, and vibrant markets. Visit the historic Garrison Savannah, go shopping at local artisan markets, or simply relax on the beautiful beaches of Carlisle Bay. Cruise visitors can dive into local culture by enjoying a rum tasting or taking a catamaran cruise along the coast!
• Oranjestad, Aruba: Known for its stunning beaches and vibrant nightlife, Oranjestad welcomes cruisers with open arms. Spend the day snorkelling in the clear waters of Baby Beach, exploring the Arikok National Park, or discovering local dishes at one of the vibrant restaurants. The colourful architecture and friendly locals make this destination a must-see!
• Castries, St. Lucia: Nestled between the majestic Pitons, Castries offers breathtaking views and lush landscapes. Visit the bustling markets for local crafts, take a guided tour to the Pitons, or unwind on beautiful beaches like Reduit Beach. It's a haven for adventurers and those seeking relaxation alike!
• Antigua: Famous for its 365 beaches, Antigua is a paradise for sunseekers! While docked, explore the historic Nelson's Dockyard, experience the local cuisine at the many restaurants, or simply bask under the Caribbean sun on one of its stunning beaches. Water sports are also plentiful for those looking to dive into coastal adventures!
• Willemstad, Curaçao: Recognised for its charming, brightly coloured buildings, Willemstad is UNESCO World Heritage listed. Take a stroll across the famous floating bridge, visit the local galleries and boutiques, or relax at one of the stunning beaches like Playa Knip. Don’t forget to taste the local delicacies at the vibrant markets!

Timing Your Southern Caribbean Cruise

The Southern Caribbean is delightful to explore at different times throughout the year. From January to March, expect warm temperatures ranging from 25 to 30°C, making it perfect for beach activities and exploring the vibrant local culture. April to June brings slightly warmer averages of 28-32°C, great for outdoor activities. In contrast, the summer months (July to September) can get hotter, often reaching around 30-34°C, with possible rain showers. Finally, October to December is slightly cooler, averaging 25-28°C, offering a perfect balance for those wishing to avoid the crowds.

Cost Overview for Southern Caribbean Cruises

A cruise to the Southern Caribbean generally costs about $1,500 to $2,500 AUD for a week-long journey, with two-week options averaging $3,000 to $4,500 AUD. For a luxury experience, prices typically start around $5,000 AUD for a week and can go up to $10,000 AUD for two weeks. Meals on board are usually included, but if you're dining ashore, expect to pay around $15-50 AUD per meal depending on location. Drinks can range from $8-15 AUD, so budget accordingly!

Alternative Regions Worth Considering

If you’re contemplating a cruise to the Southern Caribbean, consider exploring these alternative regions:

• Eastern Caribbean: Famous for its white sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters, the Eastern Caribbean makes a fantastic alternative with destinations like St. Thomas and St. Martin—perfect for sun-seekers and shoppers alike.
• Western Caribbean: Offering diverse experiences from ancient Mayan ruins in Mexico to stunning beaches in Jamaica, the Western Caribbean is perfect for those looking to blend culture with a beach escape.
• Bahamas: A favourite for many, the Bahamas is known for its stunning beaches, clear waters, and a variety of water activities. Perfect for relaxation and adventure alike!
• Cuba: For a cultural twist, Cuba offers a vibrant experience filled with rich histories, classic cars, and rhythmic music, making it a favourite for both adventure and culture seekers.
• Florida Keys: For those preferring to stay closer to home, the Florida Keys offer a great mix of beautiful islands, vibrant local culture, and water sports for the adventurous spirit.

Ready to embrace the vibrant allure of the Southern Caribbean? Cruise1st can help you find the perfect cruise to explore these stunning islands and create unforgettable memories under the sun!