Anguilla, a breathtaking Caribbean island known for its pristine beaches and turquoise waters, is a slice of paradise waiting to be discovered. With a reputation for having some of the best beaches in the world, including Shoal Bay East and Meads Bay, Anguilla offers visitors a tranquil and idyllic escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Fun fact: Anguilla is famed for its delicious local cuisine, particularly its fresh seafood dishes and especially its renowned lobster! A cruise to Anguilla provides the perfect opportunity to experience its beautiful landscapes, lively culture, and welcoming locals, all while enjoying the luxuries of a cruise ship.
Major Cruise Lines Offering Itineraries to Anguilla
- MSC Cruises operates a fleet of 23 ships, with 5 offering itineraries that include Anguilla. The MSC Virtuosa and MSC Divina are particularly popular, featuring excellent family-friendly facilities and diverse entertainment options. With impressive pools, theatre shows, and delicious dining experiences—including a variety of international cuisines—there is something for everyone on board. Most cruises depart from Miami or Port Canaveral, providing seamless access to this beautiful island.
- Princess Cruises features a fleet of 17 ships, with 6 dedicated to itineraries including Anguilla. The Grand Princess and Enchanted Princess offer spacious staterooms, numerous dining venues, and plenty of entertainment, such as live performances and themed events. The Grand Princess is specifically noted for its relaxing adults-only areas. Departures are typically from Fort Lauderdale or San Juan, allowing easy embarkation for your cruise to this Caribbean paradise.
- P&O Cruises operates a fleet of 7 ships, with 5 that feature itineraries to Anguilla. The Arvia and Britannia are especially loved for their lively onboard atmosphere and extensive recreational activities. Enjoy world-class entertainment and various dining options, offering a blend of traditional and contemporary cuisine. Departures are most frequent from Barbados or Southampton, providing great access to the enticing allure of Anguilla.
- Holland America Line includes 11 ships, with 6 that offer itineraries to Anguilla. The Nieuw Statendam and Oosterdam are noted for their elegant service and culinary experiences. Holland America Line emphasizes cultural enrichment programs, adding an educational twist to the cruise experience. Typical departures occur from Fort Lauderdale or Miami, ensuring a smooth transition to this beautiful Caribbean island.
- Norwegian Cruise Line has a total fleet size of 20 ships, with 10 featuring itineraries that include Anguilla. The Norwegian Breakaway and Norwegian Escape are especially popular choices, known for their freestyle cruising concept that allows flexibility in dining and entertainment options. Departures generally occur from Miami or New York, making access to Anguilla easy for eager travellers.
Luxury and Small Ship Options for Visiting Anguilla
- Oceania Cruises operates a fleet of 8 ships, with 6 featuring itineraries to Anguilla. The Marina and Regatta provide luxurious cruising experiences with top-notch dining options, offering a perfect mix of local flavours and elite cuisine. Passengers can delight in gourmet dishes crafted by acclaimed chefs. Departures typically take place from Miami or Rome, creating excellent access for your Caribbean sailing.
- Azamara Cruises consists of 4 ships, with 2 that feature itineraries including Anguilla. The Azamara Quest and Azamara Onward focus on immersive experiences, offering extended port stays for deeper cultural exploration. Departures commonly occur from Miami or Barbados, facilitating a smooth embarkation into the enticing atmosphere of the Caribbean.
- Seabourn features a luxurious fleet of 5 ships, with 1 dedicated to routes that include Anguilla. The Seabourn Ovation is known for its ultra-luxury cruising experience, featuring spacious suites and bespoke service to meet every guest’s needs. Departures typically occur from Barbados or Saint Martin, ensuring an elegant start to your desired exploration.
- Explora Journeys operates a fleet of 2, both featuring itineraries to Anguilla. The EXPLORA I and II are lauded for their wellness-focused offerings and luxurious experiences. Departures typically take place from Miami or San Juan, providing a sophisticated embarkation point for discovering the beauty of Anguilla and surrounding islands.
- Fred Olsen operates a small fleet of 3 ships, with 2 that offer itineraries to Anguilla. The Balmoral and Bolette are appreciated for their classic, personalised experiences and warm hospitality. Departing typically from Southampton or Liverpool, these ships allow UK cruisers to embark on a delightful Caribbean escape.
Top Harbours to Discover in Anguilla
- Road Bay – This picturesque beach is perfect for relaxing in the sun and taking leisurely swims. Enjoy the calm waters, sunbathe on the soft sand, or have a drink at one of the beachside bars. Road Bay is also a great spot for watersport activities like kayaking and paddleboarding.
- Blowing Point – This harbor serves as the main ferry terminal to Anguilla and offers a glimpse into the island’s daily hustle and bustle. Nearby, you can find several restaurants serving local cuisine, perfect for trying Anguillian specialities like lobster and conch fritters. The beach here is great for sunbathing and enjoying stunning views of St. Martin in the distance.
- Shoal Bay – Renowned for its breathtaking beauty, Shoal Bay is often ranked among the best beaches in the world. Enjoy swimming in the turquoise waters, lounging on the pristine white sand, or snorkelling to discover the underwater beauty. There are also beach bars where you can grab a refreshing cocktail and relax after a day in the sun.
- Meads Bay – A tranquil beach known for its upscale resorts and stunning views, Meads Bay is ideal for relaxation. Spend time swimming in the calm waters or enjoying water sports, such as jet skiing and paddleboarding. The beach is lined with high-quality dining establishments, making it perfect for an al fresco meal while watching the sunset.
- Long Bay – This beautiful and relatively quiet beach is perfect for those looking to unwind. You can rent a beach chair and enjoy a day of sunbathing, or explore the nearby caves and coral reefs while snorkelling. The local bars often serve up delicious seafood dishes and drinks, offering a perfect way to end your day at the beach.
When to Cruise to Anguilla
The tropical climate of Anguilla makes it a delightful destination to visit at any time of the year. From January to March, temperatures are pleasantly warm, averaging between 24°C and 29°C, making it ideal for beach activities and exploration. Spring (April to June) brings similar temperatures and opportunities for enjoying local festivals and events. The summer months (July to September) can be hot, with temperatures often reaching up to 32°C; however, this period also offers lively cultural celebrations on the island. Autumn (October to December) sees temperatures cooling down slightly to 24°C to 28°C, perfect for enjoying the charming island atmosphere while avoiding larger crowds.
Costs of Cruising to Anguilla
A one-week cruise to Anguilla typically costs between £800 and £2,000, depending on the cruise line and accommodations chosen. Luxury cruises usually start at around £3,200, with prices varying based on amenities and services offered. Dining on the island tends to be affordable, averaging around £10 to £30 for meals at local restaurants, while drinks usually cost between £3 and £10, allowing you to experience the delicious local cuisine during your stay on the island.
With its stunning beaches, rich culture, and hospitality, Anguilla is a destination you won’t want to miss! Start planning your cruise holiday through Cruise1st today, and set sail for an unforgettable Caribbean adventure filled with sun, sand, and relaxation!