Barbados Cruises

Barbados is a stunning Caribbean island known for its stunning beaches, turquoise waters, and vibrant culture. It’s a paradise for those looking to relax, explore, or take part in thrilling water activities. Did you know that Barbados is the birthplace of rum, and the locals take their distilling very seriously? You can visit the Mount Gay Rum Distillery to taste this famous drink! With its lush scenery, rich history, and warmth of the locals, booking a cruise to Barbados is the best way to experience everything this island has to offer in comfort.

Top Cruise Lines Offering Incredible Trips to Barbados

• P&O Cruises: With a fleet of 7 ships, P&O has 6 vessels sailing to Barbados. The Arvia and Britannia are standout ships, renowned for their exciting onboard amenities, including luxury spas, multiple dining options, and stunning ocean views. Cruisers will typically depart from Bridgetown or Antigua, making it a convenient getaway for those looking to enjoy the island’s charm and beauty.
• Princess Cruises: With 17 ships in their fleet, Princess Cruises operates 5 that travel to Barbados. The Grand Princess and Enchanted Princess are particularly popular for their engaging entertainment and exquisite dining options. Most sailings depart from San Juan or Fort Lauderdale, offering easy access for cruisers looking to begin their adventure in this tropical paradise.
• MSC Cruises: Featuring a fleet of 23, MSC has 3 ships exploring Barbados, with the MSC Virtuosa and MSC Seaside leading the way. These ships are well-known for their fantastic amenities, including family-friendly activities and exceptional dining choices. Departures usually take place from Miami or Fort de France, ensuring a swift start to your Bahamian journey.
• Cunard: This luxury cruise line has a fleet of 4 ships, with 3 visiting Barbados. The iconic Queen Mary 2 and Queen Elizabeth offer a refined experience combined with world-class service, making for an unforgettable cruise. Departures are commonly from Southampton or Miami, providing excellent options for cruisers wanting to visit beautiful Barbados.
• Royal Caribbean Cruises: With a grand fleet of 28, Royal Caribbean has 4 ships that visit Barbados. The Rhapsody of the Seas and Odyssey of the Seas stand out with thrilling onboard activities, such as rock climbing walls and surf simulators. Departures typically occur from San Juan or Cape Liberty (Bayonne), ensuring wonderful access to this delightful destination!

Luxury and Small Ship Cruise Lines in Barbados

• Oceania Cruises: This luxury cruise line has 8 ships in their fleet, with 6 visiting Barbados. The Insignia and Vista are notable for their exquisite cuisine and intimate settings, providing a sophisticated cruise experience. Most departures occur from Miami or Bridgetown, giving travellers an elegant start to their journey.
• Seabourn: Sail away in style with Seabourn’s fleet of 6 ships, 2 of which explore Barbados. Seabourn Ovation and Seabourn Venture are lauded for their all-inclusive experiences and exceptional service. Departures generally happen from Bridgetown or Philipsburg, ensuring a splendid introduction to the wonders of this Caribbean island.
• Azamara Cruises: With a total fleet size of 4, Azamara has 3 ships that offer itineraries to Barbados. The Azamara Quest and Azamara Journey are perfect for those wanting a unique cruising experience, complete with immersive shore excursions and longer port stays. Most embarkations take place from Miami or San Juan, providing ample options for excited cruisers.
• Silversea: This luxury brand features a fleet of 12, with 3 ships sailing to Barbados. Sail away on Silver Moon or Silver Shadow, both known for their spacious suites and high staff-to-guest ratios, ensuring exceptional service. Departures typically happen from Bridgetown or Philipsburg, making your trip even more convenient.

Top Harbours to Explore in Barbados

• Bridgetown: As the capital of Barbados, Bridgetown offers a lively atmosphere and rich history. Visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Historic Bridgetown, shop in local markets, or taste some delicious Bajan cuisine at a waterfront restaurant. Don’t miss the vibrant local music scene to get a feel for the island’s culture during your visit!
• St. George’s, Grenada: A stunning harbour with colourful buildings and local crafts, St. George’s offers a charming setting for a relaxing day. Explore the local spice market or St. George’s Fort, where you can learn about the island’s history. With beaches nearby, you can spend the afternoon taking in the sun before heading back to your cruise ship.
• Castries, Saint Lucia: Another impressive port to visit, St. Lucia offers opportunities to experience local culture through its markets and stunning coastal scenery. Take a tour of the nearby Pitons, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, or relax at one of the stunning beaches nearby to unwind on your visit.
• San Juan, Puerto Rico: When visiting here, you’ll witness stunning colonial architecture and the lively Puerto Rican culture. Stroll along the streets of Old San Juan, visit historic forts like El Morro, and sample local dishes such as mofongo at a nearby restaurant for an immersive experience!
• Philipsburg, Sint Maarten: Renowned for its shopping and stunning beaches, Phillipsburg is perfect for both relaxation and exploration. Shop for duty-free goods, soak in the sun at Great Bay Beach, or take part in water sports like snorkelling or scuba diving during your visit.

Best Times to Cruise to Barbados

Barbados enjoys a tropical climate, making it a year-round destination for cruise travellers. From January to March, temperatures average around 24°C to 29°C, ideal for enjoying warm sun and outdoor activities. April to June continues to see lovely weather, with similar averages, though humidity may increase. July to September is warmer, and temperatures can reach up to 31°C, so it’s a great time to hit the beaches despite the chance of occasional rain. Finally, from October to December, the temperatures taper down to 24°C to 28°C, making for pleasant weather and a wonderful period for festivities and local events in Barbados!

The Cost of a Cruise to Barbados

The average cost for a one-week cruise to Barbados usually ranges from $1,200 to $2,500 AUD, depending on the cruise line and the type of accommodation you choose. For those seeking luxurious experiences, longer voyages may cost between $3,500 to $6,500 AUD, offering an elegant way to explore the beautiful Caribbean.

In terms of local dining, expect to pay around $15 to $30 AUD for a meal at a local eatery, while drinks like rum punches or local beers typically cost between $5 and $10 AUD. Enjoying the local flavours while soaking in the sun will add to your unforgettable experience!

Alternative Regions to Consider for Your Next Cruise

If you’re considering exploring other fabulous destinations similar to Barbados, here are some great alternatives:

• Antigua and Barbuda – Known for its pristine white-sand beaches and 365 of them to choose from, this destination offers plenty of water sports and relaxation opportunities. The warm hospitality and vibrant culture make it a true Caribbean gem!
• Saint Martin – Renowned for its stunning beaches and diverse culinary scene, it invites adventurers to explore both the French and Dutch sides of the island. Enjoy the best of Caribbean dining and nightlife while soaking in beautiful views.
• Curaçao – An island rich in history and culture, with its colourful capital Willemstad offering a friendly atmosphere, local crafts, and beautiful waterfront scenery. It’s a delight for both relaxation and exploration seekers.
• Bahamas – With more than 700 islands, The Bahamas is a sub-tropical paradise that combines beach life with exciting excursions and water sports. Explore the rich marine life and world-famous blue holes, all while enjoying that island vibe!
• Saint Lucia – Known for its stunning Pitons mountains and lush rainforests, Saint Lucia offers outdoor adventures combined with serene beach experiences. Hiking, zip-lining, and relaxing in natural hot springs create countless possibilities for fun!

With all these fantastic options, from beautiful beaches to rich culture, there’s no better time to book your next cruise holiday to Barbados with Cruise1st. Set sail towards your unforgettable adventure today!