Eastern Caribbean Cruises

The Eastern Caribbean is a dazzling spectacle of sun-kissed beaches, turquoise waters, and vibrant cultures that beckon travellers to explore. Did you know that the Caribbean consists of over 700 islands, but only about 30 are inhabited? Each island offers its unique charm, from the lush greenery of St. Lucia to the bustling markets of St. Thomas. A cruise in the Eastern Caribbean is the perfect way to explore these beautiful islands, as you can lounge on pristine beaches, indulge in delightful local cuisine, and experience a range of water-based activities, all while enjoying the luxurious comforts of life onboard a cruise ship!

Major Cruise Lines to the Eastern Caribbean

• Princess Cruises: With a fleet size of 17 vessels, Princess operates 10 ships that frequently travel to the Eastern Caribbean. The Grand Princess and Enchanted Princess stand out for their extensive onboard amenities and vibrant entertainment options, catering to families and cruisers of all ages. With cruises typically departing from Fort Lauderdale or San Juan, it’s convenient for travellers from Australia using either Sydney or Brisbane as a domestic port before heading off on their exploration.
• Carnival Cruise Line: Operating 27 ships, Carnival offers 20 dedicated to itineraries that sail through the Eastern Caribbean. The Carnival Venezia and Carnival Sunrise are loved for their lively, family-oriented atmosphere, featuring diverse onboard activities and cuisine. Departures for these cruises commonly occur from key ports like Miami or Port Canaveral, perfect for sun-seekers heading to the islands!
• MSC Cruises: With a fleet size of 23, MSC operates 5 vessels that cruise the Eastern Caribbean. The MSC Virtuosa and MSC Seaside stand out for their family-friendly activities and entertainment options. Departures typically take place from Miami or Fort de France, ensuring easy access to these stunning islands in the Caribbean.
• Holland America Line: Holland America’s fleet of 11 includes 8 that sail to the Eastern Caribbean. The Zuiderdam and Eurodam are known for their sophisticated service and gourmet dining options, allowing guests to indulge in local flavours. Departures occur from various international ports, with Miami and Fort Lauderdale being popular choices, providing cruisers with flexibility.
• Royal Caribbean Cruises: With 28 ships in its fleet, Royal Caribbean has 17 offering itineraries to the Eastern Caribbean. The Serenade of the Seas and Brilliance of the Seas are particularly popular for their extensive onboard activities, including rock climbing walls and an exciting array of dining options. Most cruises set sail from San Juan or Fort Lauderdale, ensuring a memorable and fun-filled Caribbean getaway!

Top Luxury and Small Ship Cruises to the Eastern Caribbean

• Oceania Cruises: Oceania operates 8 ships, with 6 frequently visiting the Eastern Caribbean. The Nautica and Vista are known for their focus on fine dining and cultural immersion, offering guests an opportunity to taste local flavours and participate in engaging, destination-focused activities. Most departures occur from Miami or Bridgetown, allowing travelers to begin their Caribbean exploration effortlessly.
• Seabourn: With a fleet size of 6, Seabourn has 3 ships offering itineraries to the Eastern Caribbean. The Seabourn Ovation and Seabourn Sojourn are well-regarded for their luxurious accommodations and personalized service, delivering an exceptional experience onboard. Cruises typically depart from Bridgetown or Philipsburg, providing an elegant start to your journey!
• Azamara Cruises: Azamara‘s fleet of 4 ships includes 3 dedicated to Southern Caribbean voyages. The Azamara Journey and Azamara Onward are known for their immersive travel experiences, allowing longer stays in port for deeper local engagement. Departures commonly take place from Miami or Bridgetown, ensuring a convenient gateway to the vibrant islands.
• Silversea: With a fleet of 12 ships, Silversea features 4 that regularly cruise the Eastern Caribbean. The Silver Shadow and Silver Moon provide luxury service, all-inclusive amenities, and gourmet dining. You can expect departures from ports like Fort Lauderdale or Cartagena, giving guests an upscale entry point into the picturesque Caribbean paradise.

Exciting Harbours to Explore in the Eastern Caribbean

• San Juan, Puerto Rico: Steeped in rich history, San Juan is a captivating blend of cultures. Explore the winding streets of Old San Juan, visit the historic forts of El Morro and San Cristóbal, and sample delicious local dishes such as mofongo and lechón. The vibrant atmosphere and colorful buildings are a feast for the senses!
• Miami, Florida: Your starting point for many Caribbean cruises, Miami is famous for its stunning beaches and lively nightlife. While docked, head to South Beach for a day in the sun, explore the unique Art Deco district, and don’t forget to enjoy a meal in Little Havana to experience the local Cuban culture!
• Cozumel, Mexico: On this beautiful island, you’ll discover stunning beaches and world-class scuba diving and snorkeling. While in port, explore the ancient Mayan ruins at San Gervasio, embark on a jeep adventure through the island, or simply relax on the beach with a refreshing tropical drink!
• Philipsburg, St. Maarten: Philipsburg is known for its duty-free shopping and stunning beaches. Spend the day lounging on Great Bay Beach, exploring the shops, or sampling local cuisine. If you’re feeling adventurous, consider renting a kayak or taking part in some exciting water sports!
• Grand Turk, Turks and Caicos: Known for its beautiful beaches and coral reefs, Grand Turk is a paradise for water sports enthusiasts. Swim, snorkel, or relax on the stunning beaches. Don’t miss the chance to visit the Grand Turk Lighthouse for panoramic views of the surrounding area!

The Best Times to Cruise the Eastern Caribbean

The ideal time for a cruise in the Eastern Caribbean is between January and April, when the weather is warm and pleasant, with temperatures averaging 23°C to 30°C. These months are typically dry and perfect for beach lounging and water activities. The summer months (June to August) can get warm, with temperatures rising to around 31°C, creating a great atmosphere for beach-lovers but also attracting larger tourist crowds. If you prefer milder weather with fewer crowds, consider cruising in autumn (September to November), when temperatures hover around 25°C to 29°C.

Cost Overview for a Cruise in the Eastern Caribbean

For planning your cruise budget, expect a 1-week journey in the Eastern Caribbean to cost around $1,200 to $2,500 AUD for regular cruises, while luxury cruises can start around $3,800 AUD and go up from there. Dining costs will vary significantly; expect to pay between $20 to $50 AUD for meals at local restaurants, and drinks usually range from $5 to $15 AUD. Many cruise packages include meals, allowing you to enjoy the local culinary delights without straining your budget!

Alternative Regions to Consider

If a cruise to the Eastern Caribbean isn’t quite what you’re looking for, consider these captivating alternative regions that promise unforgettable experiences:

• Southern Caribbean: Experience stunning beaches, lush rainforests, and vibrant cultures. This region is known for adventure and relaxation, making it perfect for an exotic escape.
• Western Caribbean: With beautiful ports like Cozumel and Grand Cayman, the Western Caribbean offers plenty of opportunities for both relaxation and engaging excursions.
• Central America: Discover the rich biodiversity, lush landscapes, and charming cultures found in countries like Costa Rica and Panama, creating unforgettable adventures for nature lovers.
• Bahamas: This stunning archipelago is known for its stunning white sandy beaches and vibrant coral reefs, making it an idyllic destination for sun-seekers and adventurers alike.
• Mexico: Enjoy beautiful beaches and vibrant culture while sampling authentic local cuisine and exploring ancient Mayan ruins—perfect for anyone looking for a mix of relaxation and adventure!

Eager to explore the exquisite beauty of the Eastern Caribbean? Book your next cruise holiday with Cruise1st today and dive into the tropical paradise that awaits you!