Caribbean Cruises

Set Sail to the Caribbean with Cruise1st

The Caribbean is often dreamt of, and for good reason—its pristine beaches, vibrant cultures, and endless sunshine beckon travellers from around the globe! Picture yourself relaxing on powdery white sand, sipping a refreshing cocktail, and enjoying the island vibes that make this region so special. A fun fact to brighten your day: There are over 7,000 islands in the Caribbean, though only about 30 are inhabited! Opting for a cruise to the Caribbean is not just about visiting one island; it’s a delightful opportunity to explore multiple beautiful destinations, each with its own unique offerings and charm. Let’s embark on an unforgettable journey through this tropical paradise!

Major Cruise Lines Sailing to the Caribbean

• Carnival Cruise Line: With a fleet of 27 ships, Carnival has a whopping 22 that sail to the Caribbean. Standouts include the Carnival Venezia and Carnival Sunrise, known for their family-friendly amenities and lively atmosphere, making them perfect for cruisers of all ages. Departures are most commonly from Miami or Port Canaveral, offering convenient access for those ready to dive into sun-soaked adventures!
• Royal Caribbean Cruises: Hosting a fleet of 29, Royal Caribbean has 23 ships dedicated to Caribbean itineraries. Notable ships include Freedom of the Seas and Jewel of the Seas, both famous for their spectacular onboard activities like waterslides, ice-skating rinks, and high-energy entertainment. Sailings typically kick off from Fort Lauderdale or Miami, providing easy access to countless tropical locales.
• MSC Cruises: Boasting a fleet size of 23, MSC has 9 vessels that visit the Caribbean. Look out for MSC Virtuosa and MSC Divina, celebrated for their elegant designs and Mediterranean-inspired experiences. Cruises generally depart from Miami or Port Canaveral, ensuring a seamless transition from land to sea in the heart of Caribbean paradise.
• Princess Cruises: With a fleet of 17, Princess offers 12 ships cruising to the Caribbean, including Caribbean Princess and Grand Princess. They are renowned for their attention to detail, luxurious dining options, and immersive shore excursions tailored to explore the region’s culture. Most sailings depart from Fort Lauderdale or Port Canaveral, getting you right to the heart of the action!
• Holland America Line: With 11 ships in their fleet, Holland America has 9 providing itineraries to the Caribbean, with Eurodam and Zuiderdam being the crowd-pleasers. Notable for their excellent service and gourmet dining, these ships offer a blend of relaxation and exploration. Most cruises leave from Fort Lauderdale or Miami, ready to whisk you off to paradise.

Luxury and Small Ship Cruises to the Caribbean

• Oceania Cruises: This luxury line boasts a fleet of 8, with 6 ships making their way to the Caribbean. Ships like Vista and Insignia are famous for their fine dining and immersive travel experiences, perfect for those looking to indulge in a more upscale cruising experience. Departures are commonly from Miami or Bridgetown, allowing guests to begin their luxurious journey in beautiful locales.
• Explora Journeys: With a fleet of just 2, both EXPLORA I and EXPLORA II venture into Caribbean waters, showcasing a focus on wellness and sustainability. Their luxurious amenities provide an intimate atmosphere for discerning guests. Departures generally occur from Miami or San Juan, making it convenient for those planning to enjoy the Caribbean’s natural beauty.
• Seabourn: Operating 6 ships, Seabourn has 3 exploring the Caribbean, notably Seabourn Ovation and Seabourn Sojourn. Both are celebrated for their exclusive, intimate experiences and gourmet dining. Departures primarily happen from Bridgetown or Philipsburg, adding a touch of sophistication to your Caribbean cruise experience.
• Azamara Cruises: With a fleet of 4, Azamara has 3 ships visiting the Caribbean, including Azamara Quest and Azamara Journey. Known for their immersive destination experiences, Azamara ensures guests can explore the heartbeat of the Caribbean culture. These cruises typically depart from Miami or Bridgetown, ready to whisk you away to beautiful islands.
• Silversea: With a sizable fleet of 12, Silversea features 4 ships sailing to the Caribbean, including Silver Shadow and Silver Moon. Known for their all-inclusive luxury, Silversea provides guests with the highest level of service and onboard amenities. Departures from Bridgetown or Fort Lauderdale set the scene for an unforgettable cruising experience.

Top Caribbean Harbours to Explore

• San Juan, Puerto Rico: The capital city offers tourists rich history and vibrant culture. While docked, take a stroll through the historic Old San Juan to explore colorful colonial buildings, forts, and lively plazas. Don’t forget to sample some local street food, like alcapurrias or mofongo!
• Bridgetown, Barbados: This bustling port city invites visitors to enjoy its beautiful beaches and a plethora of attractions. Explore the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Historic Bridgetown and its Garrison, or unwind on the stunning beaches of Accra or Carlisle Bay. The local rum distilleries offer delicious tastings, too!
• Nassau, Bahamas: As a gateway to the Bahamas, Nassau is known for its stunning beaches and welcoming locals. Visitors can explore the vibrant Straw Market, tour the opulent Atlantis Resort, or bask in the sun on Cabbage Beach. A guided snorkeling trip to see marine life is also highly recommended!
• Oranjestad, Aruba: This charming capital city captures the essence of the Caribbean with its pastel-colored buildings and friendly atmosphere. Cruise guests can enjoy the beautiful beaches, delve into local history at the Aruba Archaeological Museum, or sample the delicious culinary delights in the nearby restaurants.
• Philipsburg, St. Maarten: Known for its beautiful beaches and shopping, Philipsburg is a must-visit. Beachgoers can unwind at Great Bay Beach, while those seeking retail therapy can visit Front Street for duty-free shops. Don’t miss the chance to try local dishes like fresh conch fritters at nearby eateries!

When to Book Your Caribbean Cruise

The Caribbean is a year-round destination! From January to March, the dry season offers pleasant temperatures ranging from 24-28°C, perfect for those who dislike humidity. April to June is another great time to visit, with temperatures between 25-30°C, and the islands aren’t too crowded. From July to August, the heated summer peaks to 30-35°C, which is ideal for beachgoers. September to December brings slightly cooler temperatures around 24-29°C, but it's also hurricane season, so it may be best for early and late in that period!

Cost Overview for Caribbean Cruises

A Caribbean cruise generally costs around $1,500 to $2,800 AUD for a week-long journey, while two-week excursions range from $2,800 to $5,000 AUD. For a touch of luxury, expect prices starting around $4,500 AUD for a week and about $9,000 AUD for two weeks. Meals are usually included, but if you fancy dining ashore, expect to spend about $25-60 AUD for excellent local cuisine, and drinks can vary from $8-15 AUD.

Alternative Regions to Consider

For those eyeing a cruise to the Caribbean, here are some exciting alternatives:

• Bahamas: With its stunning beaches and vibrant marine life, the Bahamas offer a laid-back atmosphere and opportunities for water sports, stunning snorkeling, and relaxation!
• Eastern Caribbean: Known for its beautiful sea views and diverse cultures, this region will charm visitors with its island-hopping opportunities and unique experiences.
• Mexican Riviera: This region offers a mix of sandy beaches, lively nightlife, and rich history, perfect for cruisers who enjoy vibrant cultures and authentic cuisine.
• Central America: For those seeking adventures that mix relaxation and exploration, Central America is fantastic with lush jungles and ancient ruins waiting to be discovered.
• Coastal California: With its stunning Pacific coastline, California boasts vibrant cities, world-renowned wine regions, and gorgeous beaches, perfect for those wanting a mix of culture and nature.

Ready to embark on a journey through the paradise of the Caribbean? Let Cruise1st help you explore these beautiful islands, filled with sun, sea, and endless adventure!