Barbados Cruises

Escape to Paradise: Discover the Beauty of Barbados

Welcome to Barbados, a captivating island in the Caribbean known for its stunning beaches, lush landscapes, and rich culture. With its vibrant history influenced by a mix of African, British, and Caribbean traditions, Barbados delights both the senses and the soul. Did you know that Barbados is famous for its rum production? In fact, it’s home to the oldest rum distillery in the world, Mount Gay, founded in 1703! Visiting Barbados via a cruise is the perfect way to experience its breathtaking scenery, warm hospitality, and exhilarating adventures—all in one seamless journey.

Top Major Cruise Lines to Barbados

• P&O Cruises: With a fleet of 7 ships, P&O Cruises boasts an impressive six vessels that sail to Barbados. The Britannia and Azura stand out for their exceptional onboard experiences, offering a mix of family-friendly activities, exquisite dining options, and stunning entertainment. Passengers can enjoy everything from theatre shows to culinary classes. Departures primarily occur from international ports such as Southampton and provide convenient access for cruisers eager to explore this Caribbean gem.
• Princess Cruises: Operating a fleet of 17 ships, Princess Cruises features six vessels that visit Barbados. The Regal Princess and Caribbean Princess are well-loved for their vibrant onboard culture, which includes themed parties, engaging activities for all ages, and diverse dining experiences. Departures typically happen from major international ports like Fort Lauderdale and Miami, making it easy for cruisers to embark on their Barbadian adventure.
• Cunard: This prestigious cruise line operates a fleet of 4 ships, with all four—Queen Mary 2, Queen Victoria, Queen Elizabeth—offering itineraries to Barbados. Renowned for their luxury and elegance, Cunard vessels provide a first-class experience with formal dining, enrichment programmes, and exceptional service. Departures often spread from international ports such as Southampton or New York, guiding you effortlessly to tropical shores.
• MSC Cruises: With a fleet size of 24, MSC Cruises offers cruises to Barbados aboard two vessels: MSC Magnifica and MSC Preziosa. Known for their modern Italian-inspired design and family-friendly atmosphere, MSC ships entice cruisers with various amenities, including entertainment options, pools, and kids’ clubs. Departures typically occur from international ports like Miami and Fort Lauderdale, providing ample flexibility for cruise travellers.
• Holland America Line: This line boasts a fleet of 11 ships, with three vessels—including Eurodam and Nieuw Amsterdam—sailing to Barbados. Holland America is celebrated for its culinary excellence and cultural enrichment programs, allowing guests to indulge in exquisite dining and immersive experiences related to their destinations. Departures generally happen from ports like Fort Lauderdale and New York, making it convenient for guests heading to Barbados.

Luxury and Small Ship Cruising Opportunities

• Explora Journeys: This luxury cruise line operates a fleet of 2 ships, both of which offer itineraries to Barbados, namely EXPLORA I and EXPLORA II. These vessels feature modern, sustainable designs with a focus on wellness and relaxation for discerning travellers. Departures typically take place from international ports such as Miami or San Juan, making embarkation simple for those ready to explore the Caribbean.
• Oceania Cruises: With a fleet of eight ships, Oceania features four that cruise to Barbados, including Insignia and Vista. Known for its exquisite culinary offerings and luxurious amenities, Oceania provides a sophisticated cruising experience with an emphasis on destination-focused voyages. Departures commonly occur from international ports like Miami and Barcelona, allowing travelers a gateway to explore the beauty of Barbados.
• Azamara Cruises: This cruise line operates a fleet of four ships, with three—Azamara Quest, Azamara Journey, and Azamara Onward—offering itineraries to Barbados. Renowned for their immersive travel experiences, Azamara emphasizes engagement with local cultures during extended port stays. Departures generally happen from international ports like Miami and San Juan, ensuring easy access for cruisers ready to explore Barbados.
• Viking Ocean Cruises: Viking operates a fleet of 11 ships, with one—Viking Sea—offering itineraries to Barbados. Known for their destination-focused approach and Scandinavian design, Viking provides enriching experiences paired with elegant service. Most departures typically occur from international ports like San Juan, making it easy for cruise passengers to explore the Caribbean.
• Silversea: This luxurious cruise line has a fleet of 12 ships, with one—Silver Ray—that offers itineraries to Barbados. Silversea provides an all-inclusive luxury experience, ensuring that guests enjoy lavish accommodations, fine dining, and personalized service throughout their journey. Departures primarily occur from international ports like San Juan, guiding travelers to the serene beauty of Barbados.

Top Harbour to Explore in Barbados

• Bridgetown: As the vibrant capital city of Barbados, Bridgetown captivates cruise passengers with its beautiful coastlines and rich history. While in port, explore the UNESCO-listed Historic Bridgetown and its Garrison, featuring historic sites like St. Michael's Cathedral. Visit the lively local markets for unique souvenirs or indulge in local Bajan cuisine at one of the waterfront restaurants. If time permits, take a stroll along the picturesque Carlisle Bay or enjoy a swim in its warm waters!

Additional Harbours Typically Visited by Cruises Going to Barbados

• San Juan, Puerto Rico: The capital city of Puerto Rico, San Juan welcomes cruisers with its blend of history, culture, and vibrant nightlife. Explore the cobblestone streets of Old San Juan, where you’ll find colourful colonial buildings, historic forts, and iconic landmarks like El Morro. Don’t forget to stop by local markets and try traditional Puerto Rican dishes like mofongo or tostones! If time allows, visit the beautiful beaches nearby for some relaxation in the sun.

Best Times to Cruise to Barbados

The prime time to cruise to Barbados is between December and April, when temperatures typically range from 24°C to 29°C. This dry season offers ideal beach weather and less humidity, making it a favourite among travelers. The months from May to November may bring hotter temperatures (around 26°C to 31°C) and a chance of rain as they fall within the Atlantic hurricane season, though this period can also be quieter and offer reduced prices.

Costs of Cruising to Barbados

A typical one-week cruise to Barbados usually costs around $1200, while a two-week cruise may start from approximately $2200. For luxurious experiences, prices generally begin around $4000 for a week. Dining in Barbados is reasonably priced, with meal costs averaging around $15 to $30, allowing you to savour local flavours without breaking the bank. Drinks typically cost between $3 and $8, making it affordable to enjoy refreshing beverages while you explore the island.

Alternative Regions Worth Considering for Your Next Cruise

If Barbados has caught your attention, consider exploring these alternative regions for your next voyage:

• Antigua and Barbuda: Known for its stunning beaches and vibrant marine life, Antigua and Barbuda provide a relaxing atmosphere with plenty of opportunities for water sports and exploration.
• St. Lucia: Famous for its dramatic landscapes and lush vegetation, St. Lucia offers beautiful beaches, incredible hiking trails, and captivating waterfalls.
• Dominica: Dubbed the "Nature Island," Dominica boasts stunning rainforests, waterfalls, and hot springs, perfect for eco-tourists and outdoor enthusiasts alike.
• Grenada: Renowned for its spice production and stunning shorelines, Grenada provides a vibrant culture and numerous opportunities for adventure in an idyllic setting.
• St. Kitts and Nevis: Known for their natural beauty, friendly locals, and rich history, St. Kitts and Nevis offer a charming atmosphere and plenty of cultural experiences.

Get ready to embrace the warm sun, stunning beaches, and vibrant culture of Barbados. Book your cruise with Cruise1st today and embark on an unforgettable journey to this Caribbean paradise!