Eastern Caribbean Cruises

The Eastern Caribbean is a dazzling paradise, renowned for its turquoise waters, stunning beaches, and vibrant cultures. This region encompasses popular islands such as St. Thomas, St. Lucia, and Barbados, all offering unique experiences and adventures. Fun fact: The Eastern Caribbean is home to some of the world’s most beautiful coral reefs, making it an ideal destination for snorkelling and diving enthusiasts! A cruise through the Eastern Caribbean not only immerses you in the vibrant local culture and culinary delights, but it also allows for leisurely explorations of enchanting tropical landscapes, creating memories that will last a lifetime.

Top Cruise Lines Offering Itineraries to the Eastern Caribbean

• Princess Cruises: With a fleet size of 17 ships, Princess Cruises has 11 vessels dedicated to exploring the stunning Eastern Caribbean. The Grand Princess and Enchanted Princess are particularly celebrated for their wide range of onboard amenities, family-friendly options, and delicious dining experiences. Departures most frequently occur from ports such as Fort Lauderdale and San Juan, giving guests excellent access to explore this remarkable region.
• Carnival Cruise Line: This popular cruise line boasts a fleet of 27 ships, with 17 that focus on itineraries in the Eastern Caribbean. The Carnival Sunrise and Carnival Celebration stand out for their lively onboard atmosphere and diverse dining selections. Most departures happen from Miami or Port Canaveral, ensuring a joyous start to your tropical getaway.
• MSC Cruises: Operating a fleet of 23 ships, MSC has 9 that offer itineraries covering the Eastern Caribbean. The MSC Virtuosa and MSC Seascape are particularly known for their modern design, comfortable amenities, and engaging entertainment options. Departures primarily occur from Miami or Fort de France, providing easy access to the delightful ports within the region.
• Holland America Line: With a total fleet size of 11, Holland America has 8 ships that visit the beautiful islands of the Eastern Caribbean. The Zuiderdam and Eurodam are recognised for their upscale dining experience and curated enrichment activities that immerse guests in local cultures. Departures frequently occur from Fort Lauderdale or Miami, allowing for delightful exploration of the islands.
• Royal Caribbean Cruises: Featuring a fleet of 29 ships, Royal Caribbean has 18 that set sail for the Eastern Caribbean. The Rhapsody of the Seas and Brilliance of the Seas are particularly loved for their fun-filled recreation options and engaging entertainment programming. Most sailings typically depart from San Juan or Miami, ensuring a vibrant atmosphere right from the start.

Luxury and Small Ship Options in the Eastern Caribbean

• Oceania Cruises: With a fleet of 8 ships, Oceania has 6 vessels dedicated to exploring the Eastern Caribbean. The Vista and Insignia are well-regarded for their luxurious dining experiences and attentive service. Departures typically occur from Miami or Barbados, setting a sophisticated tone for your leisurely journey through the region.
• Explora Journeys: With a fleet of 2 ships, both EXPLORA I and EXPLORA II sail to the Eastern Caribbean. These vessels are recognised for their elegant design and focus on providing wellness amenities, creating a refined cruising experience. Departures commonly happen from Miami or San Juan, offering a stylish beginning to your tropical escape.
• Azamara Cruises: This boutique cruise line operates a fleet of 4 ships, with 3 offering itineraries that showcase the beauty of the Eastern Caribbean. The Azamara Quest and Azamara Onward excel in providing local cultural experiences and extended stays at port, allowing travellers to dig deeper into each destination. Departures typically occur from Miami or Barbados for convenient access to the delightful islands.
• Seabourn: Operating a fleet of 5 ships, Seabourn has 2 dedicated to journeys throughout the Eastern Caribbean. The Seabourn Ovation and Seabourn Quest provide an exceptional level of luxury and world-class service, catering to those seeking a premium cruise experience. Departures commonly occur from Barbados or Saint Martin, ensuring a lavish beginning to your adventures.
• Fred Olsen: This intimate cruise line features a fleet of 3 ships, with 2 visiting the stunning Southern Caribbean. The Balmoral and Bolette focus on delivering personal service and a calm atmosphere. Departures predominantly happen from Southampton or Liverpool, making it convenient for UK guests excited to explore this beautiful region.

Must-Visit Harbours in the Eastern Caribbean

• San Juan, Puerto Rico: A vibrant port city, San Juan invites you to explore its colourful streets and historical sites. While docked, take a guided tour of El Morro, a fortress overlooking the sea, or wander through the cobblestone streets of the Old San Juan district. Don’t miss tasting traditional Puerto Rican cuisine, including mofongo, at a local restaurant.
• St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands: Known for its stunning beaches and duty-free shopping, St. Thomas beckons with various activities. Relax on the famed Magens Bay, take a scenic chairlift ride to Paradise Point for breathtaking views, or explore historic Charlotte Amalie with its colourful markets and shops. The island’s friendly locals and vibrant atmosphere are sure to leave you enchanted!
• Barbados: This stunning island paradise boasts beautiful beaches, lush landscapes, and rich cultural heritage. Spend time at the beach, take a local rum tour at one of the island’s many distilleries, or explore Harrison’s Cave for exquisite limestone formations. Sample Bajan cuisine, and enjoy the welcoming hospitality that makes Barbados a favourite among cruisers.
• Cozumel, Mexico: Renowned for its crystal-clear waters and impressive coral reefs, Cozumel offers fantastic snorkelling and diving opportunities. Explore the Mayan ruins at San Gervasio, shop for souvenirs along the waterfront, and bask in the sun at one of the many beautiful beaches. Be sure to try some local Mexican cuisine—from tacos to fresh ceviche!
• Antigua: With its stunning 365 beaches, Antigua is a sunseeker’s dream. While you’re docked, take a sailing trip around the coastline or snorkel the vibrant coral reefs. At Nelson’s Dockyard, explore the fascinating history of this restored Georgian naval base, and don’t miss the chance to sample delicious local dishes, such as jerk chicken.

The Best Times to Cruise the Eastern Caribbean

When planning your cruise to the Eastern Caribbean, timing is crucial for an optimal experience. From January to March, temperatures are delightful, typically ranging from 20°C to 28°C—ideal for beach activities and cultural explorations. Spring (April to June) continues the pattern with equally pleasant weather, averaging between 22°C and 30°C, perfect for sight-seeing and relaxation. Summer months (July to September) can be hot and humid, with temperatures peaking between 25°C and 35°C, inviting sun-lovers to enjoy the stunning beaches—but expect larger crowds during this time. Autumn (October to December) brings milder temperatures, often between 23°C and 27°C, while adding local holiday celebrations that enhance your experience.

The Cost of Cruising the Eastern Caribbean

When considering a cruise in this region, anticipate one-week itineraries to generally range from GBP 600 to GBP 1,650 per person, determined by cruise line and accommodation selected. For two-week cruises, prices usually reside between GBP 1,200 and GBP 3,500 or more. Luxury cruises typically demand higher prices, averaging between GBP 1,800 and GBP 6,000 for a week-long experience. Dining onshore can cost around GBP 12 to GBP 30 for meals, with drinks averaging GBP 3 to GBP 10, allowing you to indulge in local flavours without stretching your budget too far.

Are you excited to embark on a tropical adventure in the stunning Eastern Caribbean? At Cruise1st, we are here to assist you in planning the perfect getaway with an impressive selection of incredible itineraries and cruise lines tailored to your needs. Book your dream cruise today and dive into the beauty of the Eastern Caribbean!