Guadeloupe Cruises

Guadeloupe, an exceptional Caribbean destination, features a stunning blend of tropical landscapes, vibrant culture, and rich history. Comprising several islands, including Basse-Terre and Grande-Terre, Guadeloupe offers visitors a wealth of experiences, from sun-soaked beaches to lush rainforests and captivating waterfalls. Fun fact: Guadeloupe is shaped like a butterfly, with its two main islands resembling the wings, and is a part of the French overseas territories! A cruise to Guadeloupe allows you to explore this picturesque destination while enjoying all the luxury and comfort your ship has to offer, making it an ideal getaway for anyone seeking adventure and relaxation.

Major Cruise Lines Offering Itineraries to Guadeloupe

• MSC Cruises features a fleet of 23 ships, with 5 that include itineraries to Guadeloupe. The MSC Virtuosa and MSC Divina are particularly popular, offering a wide range of family-friendly amenities, entertainment options, and delicious dining experiences. The MSC Divina is known for its stunning outdoor pool area and elegant décor, creating a truly enjoyable atmosphere for all guests. Most cruises depart from Miami or Fort de France, providing convenient access to this Caribbean paradise.
• P&O Cruises operates a fleet of 7 ships, with 5 focusing on itineraries that include Guadeloupe. The Azura and Britannia are well-regarded for their fantastic onboard facilities, entertainment options, and relaxing ambience. Guests can expect a wide variety of dining experiences from casual bites to fine dining alternatives. Departures commonly occur from Barbados or Southampton, allowing easy embarkation for travellers eager to explore this stunning region.
• Cunard has a fleet of 4 luxurious ships, with 3 featuring itineraries that include Guadeloupe. The Queen Mary 2 and Queen Anne are particularly noted for their elegant interiors, fine dining experiences, and commitment to classic maritime traditions. Cunard is widely recognized for its extraordinary afternoon tea service. Departures most frequently happen from Southampton or Miami, ensuring a smooth entry into the island’s captivating sights.
• Royal Caribbean Cruises features a fleet of 29 ships, with 4 that sail to Guadeloupe. The Rhapsody of the Seas and Jewel of the Seas stand out for their diverse onboard activities, including live shows and water sports facilities. These ships provide a dynamic atmosphere filled with activities for cruisers of all ages. Departures typically occur from Miami or San Juan, making your access into the Caribbean seamless.
• Norwegian Cruise Line consists of 20 ships, with 10 featuring itineraries to Guadeloupe. The Norwegian Breakaway and Norwegian Escape are especially popular for their freestyle cruising approach, allowing guests the flexibility to choose dining options and entertainment. Most cruises depart from Miami or Tampa, offering convenient pathways for your exploration of the Caribbean delights of Guadeloupe.

Luxury and Small Ship Options in Guadeloupe

• Oceania Cruises operates a fleet of 8 ships, with 6 dedicated to itineraries that include Guadeloupe. The Vista and Sirena are known for their luxurious dining experiences and intimate settings, providing travellers with a refined cruise atmosphere. Departures typically occur from Miami or Rome, creating seamless entry into your delightful Caribbean cruise journey.
• Azamara Cruises features a fleet of 4 ships, with 3 focused on itineraries that visit Guadeloupe. The Azamara Pursuit and Azamara Onward are celebrated for their emphasis on immersive local experiences and late-night port stays, allowing for deeper cultural engagement. Departures usually happen from Miami or Barbados, ensuring easy access to this tropical paradise.
• Seabourn consists of a luxurious fleet of 5 ships, with 1 focusing on itineraries including Guadeloupe. The Seabourn Ovation prides itself on exceptional service and luxurious amenities, ensuring an unforgettable cruise experience. Departures commonly occur from Barbados or Saint Martin, providing an extravagant start to your journey through the Caribbean.
• Explora Journeys comprises 2 ships, both offering itineraries to Guadeloupe. The EXPLORA I and II focus on upscale experiences and wellness amenities, making them appealing for luxury seekers. Most departures typically occur from Miami or San Juan, ensuring a smooth transition to the breathtaking experiences awaiting you on the islands.
• Fred Olsen operates a fleet of 3 ships, with 2 featuring itineraries that include Guadeloupe. The Balmoral and Bolette are particularly praised for their classic cruise atmosphere and personalized service. Departures typically occur from Southampton or Liverpool, creating convenient access for UK guests eager to explore this stunning Caribbean region.

Top Harbours to Discover in Guadeloupe

• Pointe-à-Pitre – The largest city in Guadeloupe, Pointe-à-Pitre is filled with lively markets, French colonial architecture, and a rich cultural experience. Explore the local market, Marché de la Darse, for exotic fruits, spices, and local crafts. Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere and try local dishes, such as colombo chicken, at one of the many restaurants nearby.
• Les Saintes – A picturesque archipelago off the coast of Guadeloupe, Les Saintes is known for its stunning beaches and clear waters. Spend your day relaxing on the sandy beaches of Terre-de-Haut or explore the historic Fort Napoleon for beautiful views. Snorkelling in the protected waters will provide you with a captivating glimpse of the marine life in the Caribbean.
• Grande-Terre – This region is famous for its beautiful beaches and charming fishing villages. Relax on Plage de la Caravelle or Jolly Beach, both perfect for swimming and soaking up the sun. Consider visiting the town of Sainte-Anne for delicious local seafood and vibrant street markets where you can buy handmade crafts.
• Guadeloupe National Park – For nature enthusiasts, the Guadeloupe National Park features lush rainforests, hiking trails, and stunning waterfalls. Explore the scenic routes leading to La Cascade aux Ecrevisses or hike the trails leading to the Soufrière Volcano for panoramic views of the island. Bring your swimming gear to enjoy refreshing dips in the natural pools amidst lush greenery.
• Marie-Galante – Just a short ferry ride from the mainland, Marie-Galante is known for its idyllic beaches and sugarcane fields. Rent a bike or scooter to explore the island’s scenic routes, and don’t miss visiting the historic Habitation Murat for a glimpse of the sugar-making process. The quiet beaches provide a perfect setting for relaxation or a picnic by the sea.

Best Times to Cruise to Guadeloupe

The best time to cruise to Guadeloupe typically falls between December and April, where temperatures are pleasantly warm, ranging from 24°C to 30°C. The dry season makes this the peak tourist season, providing ideal weather for beach activities and local excursions. From May to October, temperatures can rise to around 30°C and it’s rainy season, with the possibility of occasional tropical storms. While this time offers lush landscapes and less crowded attractions, potential cruisers should keep an eye on weather conditions. The temperature from November to January cools slightly to about 23°C to 28°C, making it perfect for exploring the cultural side of the island without high humidity.

Costs of Cruising to Guadeloupe

A one-week cruise to Guadeloupe generally ranges from £700 to £1,500, depending on the cruise line and the type of accommodation chosen. Luxury cruises commonly start from around £3,000 and can rise significantly based on available amenities. While on the island, you can expect to spend approximately £10 to £25 for meals at local restaurants, while drinks typically cost between £3 and £8, allowing you to enjoy the diverse local offerings throughout your visit.

With its stunning beaches, vibrant culture, and mouthwatering cuisine, the Dominican Republic is waiting to be discovered. Start planning your unforgettable cruise holiday through Cruise1st and set sail for the beautiful and welcoming waters of the Caribbean!