The Southern Caribbean is home to many exciting islands, each with its own uniqueness. Cruises to the Southern Caribbean will take you to the crystalline Caribbean Sea, through rainforest treks, on salty sand, and a windswept adventure. In addition to that, you'll find island-inspired twists on British favorites and hearty Latin American dishes. For the most authentic flavors of a region, head to local eateries serving humble, authentic dishes. Find the magic of the Southern Caribbean on your next cruise.
Southern Caribbean is home to white sandy beaches, lush greenery, rich culture, most stunning rainforests, spice plantations, tropical cuisines, and a calm atmosphere that makes you feel at home. Explore the Caribbean islands' natural beauty and gorgeous sceneries, including the luxurious St. Lucia, sandy Aruba, Curacao, and Bonaire. Also, don't forget to visit and explore the Spice Isle – Grenada and your embarkation port – Barbados.
Stories are more interesting than souvenirs. Visit Harrison's Cave or venture into the crystallized caverns of the Atlantic Submarine. You can cruise to Barbados and stop at a sugar plantation for lunch. You can also see Brimstone Hill Fortress behind the walls. Visit Admiral Horatio Nelson's House in Antigua by riding through the charming countryside. You can find something in the Southern Caribbean to suit every taste, whether natural beauty, fascinating history, or just rum.
Going on a family holiday is common, but on a cruise, a family holiday is something different and unique. It creates some awe-inspiring feeling and some beautiful memories for a lifetime. This cruise gives you comfort, flexibility, and full-on family entertainment because options are a must for families on board. You will get several options which start from accommodations to several activities, onboard fun, dining, and much more. Even several cruises have special clubs and play areas for your toddlers, kids, and teens.
On a cruise to the Southern Caribbean, you get an opportunity to discover the vast beauty, and to know about the rich culture of the place you're visiting. Only a few cruise lines offer you more choices of things you want to do and see, including the freedom to do it in your way. Explore those Caribbean ports and return to the cruise ship for a wide range of activities waiting for you on board.
There is so much to do in the southern Caribbean, from jungled islands to turquoise water to flaxen beaches. Each cruise port has plenty of things to do, see, and enjoy. So whether you're an adventure seeker or history digger, cruise to this exciting destination guarantees you an exciting mix of natural beauty and rich culture. Here are some of the ports you can explore on your Southern Caribbean Cruise.
St. Lucia is a Caribbean Island with a pair of dramatically paired mountains and the Pitons on its west coast. It is home to volcanic beaches, reef-diving, fishing villages, and luxury resorts. The interior rainforests lead to many waterfalls like 15m-high Toraille that pour over cliffs into a garden. It is a small waterfall with a pool and garden underneath to jump, swim, and take fantastic pictures. Moreover, Castries is the major cruise port to grab your cruise to discover the hidden jewels on earth.
Martinique, a French West Indies island, offers adventure opportunities thanks to smoldering volcanoes, lush rainforests, and pleasant beaches. Shoppers can find French luxury products (perfumes, scarves, crystal) and traditional island handicrafts in Fort-de-France, the capital. In 1902 a volcanic eruption destroyed a small city built at the site of St-Pierre, leading to its foundation. There's a fascinating museum chronicling the event. Trails abound on the island, making it an excellent Southern Caribbean for hikers.
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Port of Oranjestad is situated on the southwestern end of the island. It is the main commercial harbor of Aruba. It is also the country's largest and capital city, with modern amenities, two private beaches, two shipwrecks, different parks and gardens, and iconic sites such as historical buildings, beaches, private resorts, and others worth visiting. Don't forget to enjoy gorgeous views, luxury shopping, and some fresh seafood. It's a perfect place for a cruise vacation and a delightful mix of Dutch and Caribbean cultures.
Grenada, known as the Island of Spice, attracts several sunseekers to its Anse Beach. The beach has white sands and calm water. There are numerous waterfalls throughout the island, providing plenty of opportunities to explore them on foot or by hiking. St. George, the island's capital city, is built around a horseshoe bay with hills rising above, making it an exciting place to visit. Moreover, you can find an abundance of nutmeg, mace, cinnamon, and other spices. Oh yeah! Don't forget to visit the Molinere Underwater Sculpture Park, which offers an extraordinary water-based adventure.
The Southern Caribbean cruise season is all about the sun-kissed islands, crystal-clear water, and culture-enriched ports. Given the fabulous offerings of top-tier cruise lines, there's simply no time like the present to make for paradise.
Celebrity Cruises suggests a better living in each Southern Caribbean cruise. Being one of the newest ships of Celebrity, Ascent offers a modern luxury experience. The chic suites, fine gastronomies, and curated shoreline excursions await your indulgence. Visit upscale ports such as St. Lucia and Barbados while enjoying world-class service with wellness-oriented onboard amenities.
Adventures in the Southern Caribbean aboard Adventure of the Seas, Jewel of the Seas, and Oasis of the Seas go by swiftly. Family thrills, romantic escapes, or mega-ship activities, including Broadway shows and zip lines, are awaiting your picking. Would you enjoy a week to eight nights of itinerary through vibrant ports such as Aruba, Curaçao, and St. Lucia? Each ship provides a little bit of adventure, a little bit of relaxation, and a whole lot of world-class amenities.
Enjoy animated Southern Caribbean cruises on Carnival Vista, Carnival Horizon, and Carnival Dream. Water parks, SkyRide, comedy clubs, and lively nightlife ensure that there is great fun on board. Itineraries span from 8 to 14 nights and reach both mainstream and off-the-beaten-track destinations. Perfect for families, groups, and party animals looking to cruise and have an energetic, budget-friendly trip.
Sandy beaches kissed by the sun, vibrant cultures, and ports to remember these are the welcomed characteristics of the Southern Caribbean. Here are some of the leading cruise itineraries and onboard activities, and amenities.
8 Night Southern Caribbean Cruise: From its departure in San Juan, the ship will visit Aruba, Curaçao, St. Kitts, and St. Lucia. An island-hopping experience is well paced for travelers in search of discovering several cultures and landscapes in just over a week.
Adventure of the Seas features a FlowRider surf simulator, rock climbing wall, ice skating rink, and several specialty restaurants. There are also possibilities to enjoy themed parties, Broadway-style shows, and family activities during the cruise.
8 Night Southern Caribbean Cruise: Cruise roundtrip from Miami, with ports like Aruba, Bonaire, and Grand Turk. It is ideal for beach lovers and snorkelers eager to discover the vibrant marine life and crystal clean waters.
Carnival Vista features in an IMAX Theater, SkyRide aerial bike, Havana Bar & Pool, and the Cloud 9 Spa. Dining options include Guy's Burger Joint and Fahrenheit 555 Steakhouse; the evenings have comedy clubs and live music to keep everybody entertained.
14-Night Southern Caribbean Cruise: This long itinerary is a deeper exploration of the Southern Caribbean gems of Grenada, Barbados, and St. Maarten. With greater time at sea and in port, it's a treat for those seeking an extended immersion into the wonders beyond.
Carnival Dream boasts spacious staterooms, a water park, mini-golf, and various dining outlets including a sushi joint, Bonsai Sushi. For after-hours entertainment, there are piano bars, dance clubs, and family entertainment at the Punchliner Comedy Club.
10-Night Southern Caribbean Cruise: Leaving from Fort Lauderdale, this high-end cruise docks at the glamour ports of St. Lucia, Barbados, and Antigua. Perfect for those wishing to strike a fine balance between relaxation and cultural exposure in a deluxe atmosphere.
Celebrity Ascent offers The Retreat experience exclusively for suite guests; Eden lounge with its immersive environment; and cuisine whipped up by world-renowned Michelin chefs. Entertainment includes acrobatic performances, live music, and rooftop garden stargazing.
Considering a Southern Caribbean cruise destination, bear the following requirements before you sail.
Weather Considerations: Plan for warm, tropical weather with high humidity and plenty of sunshine. You want to bring breathable, lightweight clothes with swimwear and sun hats, and most certainly some reef-safe sunscreen. Forecasts might brief tropical showers from June to November, while it's the hurricane season.
Travel Documentation: Ensure that your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your stay. Some Southern Caribbean ports may also require special visas or travel authorizations. Double-check the entry requirements relevant to your itinerary and citizenship.
Health Precautions: Pack necessary medications for the voyage against motion sickness, insect repellent for mosquito-borne illnesses, and any prescription medicines. Check with your doctor about potential vaccines and health advisories in the Caribbean region.
Booking Excursions: Do your research and pre-book excursions for very popular activities like snorkeling, scuba diving, rainforest hikes, and cultural tours. Independent tours can sometimes be cheaper, but cruise ones pay off by getting you back in time to the ship.
Currency and Payment: Many Southern Caribbean Islands accept U.S. dollars, but some still operate other currencies, such as the Eastern Caribbean dollar or the Aruban florin. Carry small bills, especially for tipping and small purchases. Also, inform your bank about your travel to avoid any hiccups while using your credit cards.
Onboard Essentials: Your beach bag must contain a water bottle, towel clips, flip flops, waterproof phone pouch, and casual evenings wear, among other things. In the event of a gala or formal evening at sea, remember to pack one formal outfit.
Cruise Line Policies: Study the policies related to gratuities, alcohol, dress codes, and dining reservations laid out by the cruise line. Having an explicit understanding of what is covered in the package, such as meals, entertainment, and room service, will help avoid unexpected expenses.
Local Culture and Etiquette: Island life is an easygoing affair, though respectful. Dressing modestly should be the number one rule while off the beach; greet the locals courteously. Keep environmental practices in mind: do not touch coral in the water or feed the wildlife during excursions.
Internet and Communication: Internet access is usually slow and expensive. You may want to consider buying an Internet package or simply use Wi-Fi when at port. It is best that you download the apps, maps, and entertainment before boarding.
Travel Insurance: Travel insurance covering trip cancellations, medical emergencies, lost luggage, and interruptions caused by weather should be strongly considered-it's a great option, especially in hurricane season or if multiple countries are involved in your travel plans.
A Southern Caribbean cruise can cost around $689* to $919* per person based on several factors.
You should pack lightweight and breathable clothing, swimsuits, cover-ups, sandals, flip-flops, and other essentials for hot weather.
The best time to cruise to the Southern Caribbean is generally from December to April.
There are several things you can take as souvenirs from the Southern Caribbean for example, rum, rum cake, jewelry, handicrafts, local art, conch shells, and Blue Mountain Coffee.
