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Southern Caribbean

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Cruises to Southern Caribbean islands are the stuff vivid tropical daydreams are made of. The rainforests of Dominica, crystal-clear waters of US Virgin Island St. Thomas, seaside villages of Barbados and white-sand beaches of Aruba are just a few of the exotic treasures you’ll find on your travels — and each of these iconic island experiences can be yours on cruises to the Southern Caribbean. These far-flung islands were made for getting out and swimming, snorkeling, hiking… not to mention excellent shopping and beach lounging. For a remote island getaway within reach of home, look no further than one of Carnival’s cruises to the Southern Caribbean.

  • Get a taste of the Dutch life, island-style, in Aruba, Curaçao or Bonaire.
  • Marvel at pastel buildings that come in more hues than a crayon box.
  • Explore aquatic delights, both above and below the surface.

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turquoise water views in st thomas

St. Maarten

scenic view of cupecoy beach in st maarten

Celebration Key

white-sand beach and lagoons surround multiple recreational and leisure locations at celebration key

Curaçao

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Manhattan, New York City

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Port Canaveral (Orlando)

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Princess Cays

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Thinking about the Caribbean?

We've got some daydream options for you.

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Caribbean Cruises

Plan your best caribbean cruise vacation.

The sun-kissed shores of the Caribbean are calling. Relax on gorgeous white sand beaches surrounded by crystal clear waters, discover the ancient treasures of the Mayans, or let your cares melt away while relaxing to steel drum melodies. Find the best Caribbean cruises  sailing from Ft. Lauderdale, Port Canaveral, or Galveston  to suit your vacation desires.

Find Caribbean Cruises

Trunk Bay shoreline

Eastern Caribbean Cruises

Top-Rated Beaches and Water Play

The laid-back Eastern Caribbean is home to many of the region’s most popular islands — gems like St. Thomas, St. Maarten and Grand Turk. Known for world-famous beaches, stingrays and limitless water activities, this is the perfect option for a sunny Caribbean cruise vacation, reconnecting with loved ones.

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Learn more about Eastern Caribbean Cruises

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Western Caribbean Cruises

Historic Spots and Natural Wonders

Mayan ruins, exciting eco adventures and the friendly spirit of Jamaica await in the Western Caribbean. Enjoy the lush wildernesses of southern Mexico, unspoiled coral reefs of Belize and Roatan, underground caves on the Island of Cozumel and so much more.

Learn more about Western Caribbean Cruises

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Southern Caribbean Cruises

Local Culture and Colonial Past

Cruise options for the Southern Caribbean take you from the lush paradise of Dominica to the remote isles of Aruba, Curaçao and Bonaire. Immerse yourself in traditional Caribbean culture and life on islands that blend their colonial influence with native charms.

Learn more about Southern Caribbean Cruises

Explore white sand beaches and crystal blue oceans on your Caribbean Getaway

Caribbean Getaways

Sun, sand and a short escape.

White sand beaches and coral reefs await on Caribbean Getaway cruises. Soak up some vitamin D on Princess Cays, Princess' Private Island resort, and enjoy watersports or an encounter with stingrays in brilliant turquoise waters. Or explore the colorful buildings and exciting historical sites of Grand Turk. Do it all in just a few days on a short Caribbean cruise.

Learn more about Caribbean Getaways Cruises

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Bahamas Cruises

Exclusive island experience.

The Bahamas, a series of islands with sparkling waters and pristine beaches, is a top Caribbean cruise destination. Princess Cays, our Private Island resort, calls the Bahamas its home, and our guests get exclusive access to this tropical oasis on almost all Caribbean itineraries. Get away to the Bahamas for just a few days or during a week-long Caribbean cruise and you’re sure to relax and recharge.

Learn more about Bahamas Cruises

Princess MedallionClass

Princess® MedallionClass®

Explore destinations easily on a MedallionClass vacation. Taking in balcony or top deck views, and don’t want to move? Order drinks that find you. Want to make the most of your time away? Design each perfect day with our interactive activity planner. Hate to wait when boarding or disembarking in port? Choose your preferred arrival window and make gangway reservations. Enjoy more time to connect with the places you sail.

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Why Cruise the Caribbean with Princess

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We Sail the Caribbean Year-Round

Each season has a personality all its own. Summer is a time for family fun in the sun. Fall invites the adventurous to immerse themselves in the islands. Winter is marked by festivals and other celebrations. Spring is the perfect time for renewal and relaxation. Cruise the Caribbean throughout the year, and you’ll encounter a different side of the Caribbean each time, unified by the distinctive experiences Princess offers.

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See Why Families Love the Islands

Social media stars the Holderness Family recently set sail on a Caribbean cruise. Check out the music video to see why a Caribbean vacation with Princess Cruises is more than just a trip!

Want more? See the kids’ vlog of their experiences in Camp Discovery and adventures ashore, and watch the parents tackle cruise myths in their vacation recap.

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Princess Cays®, Private Island Resort

Relax on your very own beach playground, where 40 acres of white sands, bungalows, local crafts and a complimentary barbeque await. Snorkel in sparkling turquoise waters. Find serenity fishing from the rocky coastline. Feed stingrays or paddle through the lagoon in a clear-bottom kayak. And you can post your experiences with ease, thanks to Princess’ MedallionNet™, the best Wi-Fi at sea — now on land!

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Our Newest Ships Enjoy the Islands

There’s no better way to cruise the Caribbean than on one of the bold, new additions to our fleet. We take travel to the next level: the exceptional features of Sky Suites and the unrivaled service, the glass-enclosed dome and balconies taking in the Caribbean sun and sights of beautiful islands and crystal clear waters. Cruise to the Caribbean in luxury with Princess.

Featured Ports on Cruises to the Caribbean

Long to dive into turquoise waters? The Eastern Caribbean's world famous beaches await. Prefer to explore historic Mayan ruins? The Western Caribbean's ancient wonders are calling. For those craving adventure in a natural wonderland, the Southern Caribbean is brimming with possibilities. Each voyage illuminates the heart of Caribbean life, so come see what makes these islands legendary.

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Beaches & Sunshine

Lazy days beneath swaying palms.

Let the soft sands and warm winds melt all your worries away. The beaches of the Caribbean are legendary for their natural beauty and tranquil turquoise waters. Relax with a tropical cocktail in your hand, swim with stingrays and sea turtles, or just take in the calming ocean air.

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Culture & History

A diverse heritage.

The culture and history of the Caribbean is rich, varied and deep. Walk the docks that once harbored the greatest fleet in the world at Nelson's Dockyard, taste and hear the deep West African influences in everyday Caribbean life, and experience the uniqueness of each island.

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Exploration

Mother nature's playground.

The Caribbean has been a land of adventure for hundreds of years, and there's excitement for every traveler, now more than ever. Zipline above the lush jungle, snorkel through a coral reef teeming with life, take an off-road vehicle deep into the rainforest or sail a catamaran out to explore a shipwreck. Adventure lives around every corner.

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Island Shore Excursions

Experience the authentic Caribbean with award-winning shore excursions. In a region so full of new experiences, unique culinary delights and deep history, why trust anyone but the experts? Go swimming with stingrays in Grand Cayman, travel through dense jungles to hidden Mayan ruins on Cozumel, snorkel the world’s second largest barrier reef in Belize or sail on a thrilling catamaran in Antigua.

Learn more about Caribbean Shore Excursions

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Late Night Departures

The Caribbean has a different feeling at night. Revel in its warm evenings and enticing music with our More Ashore program. Later stays on select itineraries in Aruba, Curacao, Grand Turk, San Juan, St. Maarten and St. Thomas let you soak up the full Caribbean experience, like a fresh-caught seafood dinner on the beach or street fair full of local crafts and flavors. With More Ashore, you get more time to enjoy the vibrant island nightlife.

#PrincessCruises Caribbean Connections

Caribbean cruise onboard experience & featured program.

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Comfortable Accommodations

Your stateroom is your home away from home on your voyage where you rest up and recharge between adventures. With the expertly designed Princess Luxury Bed, luxurious 100% Jacquard-woven cotton linens and specially created SLEEP program by a board-certified sleep expert, you might just get the best sleep of your life. We offer staterooms ranging from interior cabins to full suites, and we even offer connected rooms for families with more than four members traveling together.

Rhythm of the Caribbean logo

Bringing Local Life Aboard

Embrace the spirit of the islands the moment you step on your ship with our Rhythm of the Caribbean program. Savor island cuisine, sip signature cocktails and engage in authentic regional experiences. Dance beneath the stars to vibrant island rhythms at exclusive parties, and immerse yourself in one-of-a-kind cultural activities — from concerts and crafts to talks from shark experts and treasure hunters.

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Never Miss a Beat

Say goodbye to the daily grind with our new Sail Away Party poolside on the top deck, dance to local music at one of the many Caribbean inspired concerts, or be the envy of every pirate at our high-energy gold treasure-inspired Terrace Pool Gold Party. Throughout your cruise to the Caribbean there will be events that excite, enrich and challenge you to fully experience the islands.

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Deeper Experiences of the Islands

Discover the history of local distilleries while sampling some of the region’s best rums, meet the parrots and macaws that call the Caribbean home in the ship's Piazza, or become a part of the rhythm with steel pan drum lessons. Our onboard activities give you the chance to gain a deeper connection and understanding of the gorgeous islands you'll visit on your voyage.

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Discovery at SEA

Sharks, pirates and stars — oh my.

Discovery at SEA brings the expertise and excitement of the Discovery Channel™ on board your Caribbean cruise! Enjoy Shark Week all summer long with shark-themed activities, hear tales of sunken treasure and lost shipwrecks from the stars of Travel Channel’s™ Caribbean Pirate Treasure, and explore the constellations and spectacular galaxies of the night sky with the Voyage to the Stars indoor planetarium experience.

Ship Activities for Every Cruise to the Caribbean

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Recharging Your Batteries

Pamper yourself in the Lotus Spa® with a massage, facial or manicure, and feel renewed. Enjoy The Sanctuary, a lounge just for adults, where you can relax with a light meal, specialty drink and al fresco massages while digging into that novel you've been looking forward to reading. If you prefer your relaxation more active, we offer Zumba, yoga and tai chi classes to burn off stress and raise your heart rate.

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Celebrations

The perfect place to celebrate.

Almost 30% of all passengers who sail with us are celebrating an important milestone in their lives. Say "I do" at sea in a ceremony officiated by the captain. Arrange for an anniversary package and let us spoil you with romantic balcony dining, chocolates and more. For us, every day is a celebration.

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Love Blooms on the Love Boat

It's difficult to imagine something more romantic than sailing through the warm waters of the Caribbean, hopping between tropical islands and white-sand beaches from the comfortable luxury of your ship. While on board we cater to your romantic side with private dining on your balcony, whether a relaxing breakfast for two or a romantic sunset dinner, honeymoon packages for lucky newlyweds, flowers and chocolates delivered to your room and couples-only massages in the Sanctuary.

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Food & Drinks

The flavors of the islands.

The diverse cultural influences, local climates and history of the Caribbean combine to make one of the most exciting and unique regional cuisines in the world. From mofongo, a dish from Puerto Rico made from mashed fried plantains, pork and garlic, to the famous jerk chicken of Jamaica, we serve the Caribbean's favorite flavors to you on board. Thanks to Princess' world-class chefs you'll enjoy fresh, locally inspired dishes for your entire voyage.

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Movies Under the Stars®

Outdoor cinema at its best.

Enjoy many of the latest movies, exciting concerts and most anticipated live sports games on a massive poolside screen. The warm Caribbean night air, fresh popcorn and comfortable lounge chair with fleece blanket make for a viewing experience like no other. Not to mention the best theater in the world, the Caribbean ocean with a ceiling of stars!

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Sailing with Your Crew

Enjoy a ship full of activities for the whole family, from Broadway-style shows to Discovery’s Shark Week all summer long, your family will be engaged in the Caribbean. Go Stargazing under the stunning expanse of the night sky with Discovery at SEA, compete in a family game night, and savor the flavors of the islands together.

Caribbean Cruise Articles and Videos

Read about colorful cultures, breathtaking landscapes, must-see attractions and preparation advice for cruising the Caribbean.

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2023-2024 Caribbean Cruises

There’s no better way to truly experience the laid-back Caribbean than with Princess.

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Caribbean Cruise Weather by Month

From radiant sunshine to turquoise waters, enjoy the best Caribbean cruise weather all year round when you sail to these tropical lands with Princess.

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Top Five Caribbean Cruise Destinations

Whether you’re a history-lover, adventure-seeker or laid-back traveler, discover the best Caribbean cruise destinations for any guest with Princess.

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Best Caribbean Cruises

Visit the best Caribbean cruise destinations with Princess and relax on white-sand beaches or embark on adventure that will leave a lasting impression.

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Top Things to Do in Grand Cayman

From relaxing on the shores of Seven Mile Beach to feeding majestic sea creatures at Stingray City, discover the top things to do in Grand Cayman with Princess.

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Best Time for a Caribbean Cruise

Discover the best time for a Caribbean cruise. From the offseason to the sunniest months to festival season, anytime is the best time to travel to the Caribbean.

See all Caribbean cruise articles and videos

Travel, Airfare, & Hotels: Let Princess Get You There

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Airplane to Ship Transfer

We get you where you need to go.

Let Princess pick you up from the airport and take you directly to your ship or hotel when you arrive, even if you didn't book your airfare through us. A uniformed Princess representative meets you at the airport after you've retrieved your luggage and transports you directly to your ship or hotel without you having to worry about the logistics of navigating a new city.

Learn more about transfers

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Cruise Plus Hotel Packages

Stay longer and relax.

Extend your Caribbean cruise vacation, and simplify your travel plans with a hotel stay at the beginning or end of your cruise. With a Cruise Plus Hotel Package, a Princess representative meets you at the airport and pier, transporting you to and from your hotel. The package includes the cost of your hotel stay, transportation and the services of the representative.

View Cruise Plus Hotel Packages

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Colorful buildings in the Southern Caribbean.

Southern Caribbean Cruises

Set sail on an unforgettable adventure through the enchanting Southern Caribbean on a cruise of a lifetime. Your Southern Caribbean cruise whisks you to the region’s distant reaches, the ABC Islands: Aruba, Bonaire, and Curaçao. Known for its stunning and pristine beaches, the Southern Caribbean is a top choice for vacationers seeking sun, sea, and relaxation.

Explore Southern Caribbean Cruise Ports

Truly get away from it all with dreamy Southern Caribbean cruise destinations. Discover the rich history of Amber Cove, explore the dry, cactus-filled terrain on a hiking adventure in Oranjestad, or traverse the bustling waterfront of Willemstad.

Amber Cove, Dominican Republic

A cruise port on the country’s North Coast, Amber Cove offers something for everyone. History lovers can tour its Spanish colonial towns. Nature seekers can taxi to lush rainforests nearby. Families will find an array of resorts, beaches and water parks. 

Oranjestad, Aruba

The Dutch Island of Aruba feels like another world and has activities you can’t find anywhere else. Relax in the shade of a fofoti tree or hike its arid, cactus-studded landscapes, where you might see wild donkeys and lounging iguanas along the way. 

Willemstad, Curaçao

Willemstad is as picturesque as it gets with pastel gabled row houses lined up on a bustling waterfront. Explore the historic center, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Shop for fresh fruits at the floating market or taste the local liqueur at a distillery. 

See All Southern Caribbean Cruise Ports

Southern Caribbean Tours and Excursions

Dive a sunken shipwreck or take a sunset sail off the coast off Aruba. Whether you seek adventure or relaxation, you’ll find it in our shore excursions.

All Inclusive Beach Getaway

Experience the genuine warmth of Dominican hospitality at Amber Beach Club, an exclusive north-coast shore, offering golden sands, attentive English and Spanish-speaking staff, and a variety of activities, all while savoring delicious buffet options and refreshing cocktails.

4x4 Natural Pool Swim & Snorkel Safari

Embark on an exhilarating off-road adventure o access Aruba's renowned Natural Pool and its crystal-clear waters, Then, trek down the rugged path to the pool carved from lava rocks in Arikok National Park, where you can swim and snorkel with gear provided.

Cooking With a Caribbean Chef: In Partnership with Food & Wine Magazine

Discover the secrets of mango peeling and fish filleting before diving into a hands-on cooking class, where you'll craft tantalizing dishes using regional spices, fresh produce, and fish. Afterward, relish your culinary creations at a beautifully-set outdoor table.

Family Fun: Monkey Land & Dominican Flavors

Begin your adventure at Monkey Land, a lush tropical jungle where you'll interact with playful squirrel monkeys in their natural habitat. Then, visit a rustic countryside home frozen in time, offering insights into local life and the island's history and culture. 

Featured Southern Caribbean Cruise Itineraries

Pick the cruise of your dreams, whether it's a 9-day excursion or an extended voyage and uncover the Southern Caribbean's most exceptional offerings. 

10-Day Southern Caribbean Seafarer Holiday

Embark on an island-hopping adventure across the Southern Caribbean, where your days can be filled with beachfront cabana relaxation, playful encounters with pint-sized squirrel monkeys, or exploring vibrant coral reefs while snorkeling. 

14-Day Southern Caribbean

Set sail on this 14-day roundtrip Southern Caribbean cruise and enjoy pristine beaches in St. Thomas, marvel at the vibrant marine life in Barbados, and walk along the blue cobblestones of Old San Juan.

17-Day Southern Caribbean Seafarer / Eastern Caribbean

Embark on a 17-day Southern and Eastern Caribbean cruise, where you'll disembark at breathtaking destinations like the Dominican Republic, Curaçao, and Aruba. 

Explore All Southern Caribbean Cruises

Southern Caribbean Travel Tips

Immerse yourself in the full tropical experience and delve into expert travel advice and suggestions on activities to enjoy in cherished Southern Caribbean locales.

Finding The Best Caribbean Cruise for You

Find out the best Caribbean cruise for newcomers, families, and more, whether you’re looking for otherworldly scenery, wildlife and adventure, or fun in the sun. 

Caribbean Cruise Packing List

We've got you sorted with our Caribbean cruise packing guide, whether your fantasies involve snorkeling amidst vibrant marine life or savoring a delightful cocktail under an umbrella on the beach.

Best Time for a Caribbean Cruise

Discover the ideal time to embark on a Caribbean cruise, whether your goal is to steer clear of crowds, make budget-friendly choices, or bask in the sunniest weather. 

View All Caribbean Cruise Tips and Travel Advice

Experience Sheer Delight on Deck

Holland America Line’s Rotterdam cruise ship

Nieuw Statendam

Holland America Line’s Nieuw Amsterdam cruise ship.

Nieuw Amsterdam

Holland America Line’s Eurodam cruise ship

The Southern Caribbean Cruise Experience

Delight in Top-Tier Dining Experiences

Savor a world of dining options on our cruise, curated by celebrity chefs and enriched by our Culinary Council®, from casual poolside favorites to local flavors, and award-winning cocktails. 

Add a Resort Stay

Add a hotel package to your Southern Caribbean cruise and enjoy convenient, comfortable overnights in Ft. Lauderdale, Florida before or after your cruise. 

Book Flights

Book flights that depart and arrive in time for your Southern Caribbean cruise with Holland America Line Flight Ease®. Find low prices, loads of options, and enjoy flexibility and support should plans change. 

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Caribbean Cruises

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Semi-Annual Sale

Enjoy 75% off your second guest’s cruise fare. Plus, additional guests in your stateroom sail free on select sailings.

Ultimate Southern Caribbean

From FORT LAUDERDALE, FLORIDA - onboard CELEBRITY SILHOUETTE

†Taxes, fees and port expenses $132.43 USD *

Limited Time Offer

At Celebrity Cruises®, we believe choice matters. That’s why we’ve pre-packaged our most popular amenities—drinks, and Wi-Fi— Tips charged separately. So you can now choose the most convenient way to get the best value from your cruise.

 Drinks

Choose from an incredible array of beers, spirits, cocktails, liqueurs, frozen drinks, wines by the glass, sodas, juices, specialty coffees and bottled water.

 Wi-Fi

We know staying in touch is important, so we’ve included internet access for all guests. Browse the web, check email, and use messaging apps.

Cruise Itinerary

  • Port of Departure
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Fort Lauderdale, Florida

Mon, Mar 25, 2024

Departs: 4:00PM

At Sea - Cruising

Tue, Mar 26, 2024

Wed, Mar 27, 2024

Philipsburg, St. Maarten

Thu, Mar 28, 2024

Docked: 7:00AM to 5:00PM

Castries, St. Lucia

Fri, Mar 29, 2024

Docked: 9:00AM to 6:00PM

Bridgetown, Barbados

Sat, Mar 30, 2024

Docked: 8:00AM to 6:00PM

Roseau, Dominica

Sun, Mar 31, 2024

St. Johns, Antigua

Mon, Apr 1, 2024

Docked: 8:00AM to 5:00PM

Tue, Apr 2, 2024

Wed, Apr 3, 2024

Thu, Apr 4, 2024

Arrival: 7:00AM

See Full Itinerary

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Check About This Ship

Celebrity Silhouette Ship

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Celebrity Silhouette

Celebrity Silhouette® is impressive, with chic upgrades to the iconic Lawn Club. We've created more space to relax, and socialize in the fresh sea air and provided an interactive outdoor grilling experience. 85% of the ship's luxurious staterooms are enhanced by sweeping veranda views. We've created an extraordinary vacation experience. Again. test.

Onboard Features

Grand Cuvée

The airy Main Restaurant offers exquisite menu selections, which change nightly to give you a variety of classic and contemporary choices. And the service? Legendary.

Blu Restaurant

Clean, crisp flavors and inventive cuisine meet an extensive list of sustainable and biodynamic wines. Exclusively for AquaClass guests.

The exclusive restaurant for guests of The Retreat. Select and cutting edge, the globally inspired menus at Luminae are not available in any other restaurant on board.

Ensemble Lounge

Ensemble Lounge is the ideal setting for an aperitif en route to an extraordinary dining experience, or a digestif afterward.

The Martini Bar

Sit back and relax, listening to up-tempo tunes and enjoying a collection of rare vodkas and a portfolio of fine caviars.

World Class Bar

Welcome to our “fine drinking” experience, where the ritual of making cocktails is just as exciting as drinking them.

The Retreat is an unparalleled vacation experience that includes every stunning suite, a private restaurant, an exclusive lounge, and a sundeck that rivals any high-end resort.

Say "Ahh" in spa-inspired staterooms designed just for you. Savor clean eating at Blu and escape to the Relaxation Room.

Tailored services and amenities await you in these exceptionally appointed staterooms. We're here to help you make the most of your time on board and on shore.

Camp at Sea

For our Camp at Sea program, we’ve designed more than 500 activities that make every sailing a brand new experience and an unforgettable memory for our junior cruisers.

Relax, recharge, and play the hottest slots and table games at Casino. It offers a sophisticated ambiance and a captivating atmosphere that comes alive with plenty of action.

Shops on Silhouette

Celebrity's European-inspired piazza and elegant galleria hold riches of chic sophistication. Marble walkways lead you to modern boutiques and fine jewelry stores.

Fitness Center

Bring your workout routine along on your modern luxury vacation and enjoy a variety of new fitness classes and seminars along with world class cruise fitness amenities.

The Lawn Club

Who said grass can’t be on a ship? Enjoy a friendly pick-up game of leisure sports like Croquet, Bocce, golf putting, Blongo or Baggo.

Adults-only Solarium

A serenely beautiful adults-only pool and hot tub experience, The Solarium let’s you relax and daydream of the next destination you’ll be exploring.

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Price is per person and applies to selected sailing, lowest available fare stateroom category, based on double-occupancy, reflects any promotional savings, and is subject to change and availability until booked. Additional terms and conditions apply to offers. Full deposit must be paid by deposit payment required due date. Standard full deposit penalty is applied if booking is cancelled within final payment period; see Celebrity’s cancellation policy for details. Non-Refundable Deposit Bookings (“NRDB”): To qualify for the lowest available cruise fare, guest must choose a non-refundable deposit. All deposit payments for NRDB made after 03/02/23 are non-refundable from the time of booking. NRDB are applicable to groups at prevailing rates. Not applicable to incentive, contract, or charter groups. Nonrefundable deposit offers are applicable to sailings within final payment, however full deposit is due at time of booking. 

Celebrity Edge® Series Iconic Suites, Edge Villas, Penthouse Suites, Royal Suites, Celebrity Suites, AquaClass® Sky Suites, and Sky Suites (and Family Suites during Holiday sailings) require double the deposit amounts listed.

All Included  pricing applies to sailings booked and departing on or after October 4, 2023, excluding Galapagos cruises, in an inside, ocean view, veranda, Concierge Class, or AquaClass stateroom (“Eligible Bookings”). All guests within an Eligible Booking who choose “All Included” pricing, will receive a Classic Drinks Package and an unlimited Basic Wi-Fi package. All guests in the same stateroom must choose the same rate.  Please visit www.celebritycruises.com/things-to-do-onboard/onboard-packages/beverage-packages for further information on available beverages and full restrictions and www.celebritycruises.com/things-to-do-onboard/onboard-packages/internet-and-phone-packages for further information on wi-fi.

All Included pricing applies to new individual bookings only. Changes to booking may result in removal of Offer. Prices and Offers are subject to availability and change without notice, may be withdrawn at any time, and not applicable to charters or contracted groups. All Included pricing is non-transferable and not combinable with certain rates including, Travel Agent, Interline, Net, Exciting Deals, or worker cabins.  Single occupancy guests paying 200% cruise fare are eligible for All Included pricing. Refer to celebritycruises.com and the Cruise Ticket Contract for additional terms and conditions. Celebrity Cruises reserves the right to cancel offer at any time, correct any errors, inaccuracies, or omissions, and change or update fares, fees, and surcharges at any time without prior notice.

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Best Cruise Lines in the Caribbean

When choosing to cruise to the Caribbean, images of white sand beaches, cerulean water and plenty of sun often come to

When choosing to cruise to the Caribbean, images of white sand beaches, cerulean water and plenty of sun often come to mind. But how do you know which cruise line offers the best Caribbean experience? To find out, U.S. News used a methodology that factors in each cruise line's variety, number and percentage of Caribbean itineraries, along with approval ratings among experts and travelers, to compile this list of the best cruise lines sailing in the Caribbean. In addition to offering a great Caribbean cruising experience, these cruise lines offer plenty of  deals on their voyages that can be found year-round.

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southern caribbean cruise lines

Disney Cruise Line

Disney's ships sail to ports across the Caribbean, including Barbados, Jamaica and St. Lucia. Most of Disney's Caribbean cruises stop at Castaway Cay – the cruise line's private island in the Bahamas. In addition to offering character greetings and waterslides, the island boasts less-congested beaches and prime snorkeling.

  • 4.46 Overall Rating
  • 5 Ships in Fleet

southern caribbean cruise lines

Celebrity Cruises

Celebrity's diverse Caribbean itineraries make it a star in the eyes of many cruisers. You can sail to spots like the U.S. Virgin Islands and the Cayman Islands, or boat around St. Lucia and other islands. Wherever you choose, you'll find a bevy of exciting shore excursions, ranging from swimming with stingrays to rum tasting adventures.

  • 4.36 Overall Rating
  • 13 Ships in Fleet

southern caribbean cruise lines

Virgin Voyages

Virgin Voyages is a well-designed, adults-only cruise line. Ships feature upscale dining, wellness activities and plenty of live entertainment, plus free Wi-Fi access. Caribbean itineraries make stops in San Juan, Puerto Rico; St. Croix, U.S. Virgin Islands; and Cozumel, Mexico. Virgin also boasts a private beach club in Bimini, Bahamas.

  • 4.39 Overall Rating
  • 3 Ships in Fleet

southern caribbean cruise lines

Royal Caribbean International

Royal Caribbean is known for its varied island itineraries – stops include Jamaica, Puerto Rico and St. Maarten. What's more, shore activities arranged through the cruise line cater to all types of travelers. Cruisers can zip line through the jungle, strap on scuba equipment and scour the deep-blue sea or just relax on the beach.

  • 4.17 Overall Rating
  • 25 Ships in Fleet

southern caribbean cruise lines

Holland America Line

Sailing to destinations like Bonaire, the Bahamas and Honduras, Holland America's ships offer a host of onboard amenities and activities to keep you entertained at sea. Once you dock, you'll be able to participate in fun excursions like sea trek helmet diving, catamaran sailing adventures and rainforest drives.

  • 4.14 Overall Rating
  • 11 Ships in Fleet

southern caribbean cruise lines

Carnival Cruise Line

Carnival brings the party to the Caribbean with its "Fun Ships," cruising to a handful of hot spots like Turks and Caicos and the Dominican Republic. Families in particular enjoy Carnival's affordable and flexible itineraries: Caribbean cruises range from four to 14 days, and you can find trips for less than $300 per person.

  • 3.90 Overall Rating

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Princess Cruises

Princess caters to all kinds of cruisers, from families to couples to solo travelers. The cruise line also entices passengers with its variety of itineraries, covering popular eastern, western and southern Caribbean destinations like the U.S. Virgin Islands and St. Maarten, as well as smaller spots such as Dominica and Grenada.

  • 4.02 Overall Rating
  • 15 Ships in Fleet

southern caribbean cruise lines

Norwegian Cruise Line

With 15 of Norwegian's ships sailing to dozens of popular isles in the Caribbean – from Aruba to Curacao to the Cayman Islands – the cruise line boasts a variety of itineraries to suit your fancy. Plus, Norwegian's extensive list of excursions includes offerings like parasailing, swimming with dolphins and snorkeling.

  • 3.97 Overall Rating
  • 19 Ships in Fleet

southern caribbean cruise lines

MSC Cruises

MSC doesn't tout as many Caribbean itineraries as other lines in this ranking; just seven of its 23 ships (Divina, Magnifica, Meraviglia, Seascape, Seashore, Seaside and Virtuosa) sail to the region in 2024. However, its routes stop in popular ports of call like Jamaica, the Bahamas, the Cayman Islands and Aruba.

  • 3.79 Overall Rating
  • 22 Ships in Fleet

Disclaimers about ship ratings: A ship’s Health Rating is based on vessel inspection scores published by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). If a ship did not receive a CDC score within 22 months prior to the calculation of its Overall Rating, its Health Rating appears as N/A; in such a case, the ship’s Overall Rating is calculated using the average Health Rating of all CDC-rated ships within the cruise line. All ship Traveler Ratings are based on ratings provided under license by Cruiseline.com.

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Hot Topic: Surprise Cruise Reveal Ideas

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Your Southern Caribbean Cruises Planning Guide (2024)

You're missing out if you don’t take a Southern Caribbean cruise. You’re skipping the relaxation of the swaying palm trees in tropical ports. You’re missing the sounds of live music with steel drums welcoming you to the islands. A rum drink won’t be in your hand on or off your cruise ship. Don’t let this be you! Jump at the chance to visit Southern Caribbean Islands on a cruise vacation. 

We’re sharing all you need to know about Southern Caribbean cruises, including where they port, the time of year to cruise, and – the best part – some fantastic cruise line options. 

Disclosure: This post is sponsored by Emerald Cruises. All opinions are ours, and we bring you genuine information with facts, photos, thoughts, and recommendations. As Amazon Associates, we earn from qualifying purchases. We may make a small commission from additional affiliate links in this post at no cost to you.

Turquoise ocean with an island in the distance, seen during a Southern Caribbean cruise.

Southern Caribbean Cruises Planning Overview

Since you need a boat to island hop in the Caribbean anyway, you may as well explore the area on a cruise. Not only will you be able to visit multiple ports across various islands, but you won’t ever have to change your hotel room. The comfort of a “home base” and not worrying about coordinating how you get to and between islands is priceless. 

Consider the following when planning a Southern Caribbean cruise:

Cruise Length

While you can usually find a northern Caribbean cruise for as short as two to three days, cruises in the Southern Caribbean average seven or eight days minimum. You can also find longer cruises, like 12 days.

Time of Year

The time of year you sail in the Southern Caribbean might depend on the ship you want to be on. For instance, large ships sail in the area at any time, thanks to the area’s ease of access and crowd-pleasing island destinations. 

A smaller ship, however, usually repositions itself in the Caribbean from elsewhere around the globe during winter to appeal to cruisers who want to momentarily escape US winters in favor of a warm-climate vacation. 

Beware of hurricane season and summer heat if considering sailing between May and October. Peak season on large ships will be during school breaks, like Spring Break. Winter Break is an incredibly popular time to travel to the Caribbean because Americans escape the cold for Christmas vacation. 

Port of Embarkation

Southern Caribbean cruise ports of embarkation are typically on the east coast of the United States or in the Caribbean. Flights are likely less expensive to your cruise starting point than, say, flights to Europe for a river cruise . You’ll be less jet-lagged for a Caribbean cruise because the port of embarkation is closer to home than across the Atlantic or Pacific Oceans. 

The weather in the Caribbean is tropical. It’s warm and sunny year-round, so you’ll want to pack lightweight clothing, including shorts, short sleeves, tank tops, and bathing suits. 

Don’t forget your sunglasses and sun visors. You may want to consider buying sunscreen with a high SPF number; you don’t want to be ill-prepared for the sun’s strength in the Caribbean and end up with a sunburn. 

Excursions 

Gorgeous islands dot the Caribbean Sea. Turquoise waters surround each one, allowing boats to weave in and out of interesting ports. Each has a rich cultural heritage, some have residents speaking multiple languages, and each has an array of activities to do and sites to visit. 

Expect excursions that run the gamut across various cruise lines, from rainforest hikes and snorkeling to rum distillery visits to parasailing and catamaran cruises.

Woman in a yellow top looking through binoculars at the ocean on a Southern Caribbean cruise.

What Islands You Can Visit During a Southern Caribbean Cruise

You may wonder where Southern Caribbean cruises go. These seven islands are where the ports of call are on a collection of Southern Caribbean cruises, though exact stops depend on each cruise line and the ship’s itinerary: 

  • Curaçao – you may hear Aruba, Bonaire, and Curacao referred to as the “ABC Islands”
  • St. Vincent and the Grenadines

It’s not uncommon for Caribbean cruise itineraries to combine Eastern Caribbean and Southern Caribbean Island stops. For instance, a cruise that begins in San Juan, Puerto Rico, in the north, may port in Aruba, in the south, during the sailing.

San Juan, Puerto Rico with a white sculpture and fountain in the town square.

Map of the Southern Caribbean Islands Cruises Sail To

If you’re a visual person, we’ve created a custom map for you to view the location of each island in the Caribbean Sea. 

Ports of Embarkation for Caribbean Cruises 

Some Southern Caribbean cruises are closed-jaw itineraries from the United States. Others require you to first fly to the Caribbean to embark on your tropical adventure and may start in one port but end in a different one. 

While the list below does not encompass all Southern Caribbean cruise ports of embarkation, it will give you an idea of what to expect. Generally speaking, smaller, more luxurious cruise ships will start and end the trip in the Caribbean, while mega-ships usually sail from the United States.

Continental United States Ports of Embarkation for Southern Caribbean Cruise Itineraries

With very few exceptions, cruise ships leave or return to eastern United States cruise ports because the Caribbean Islands are east of North and Central America, in the Atlantic Ocean.

  • South Florida, including Fort Lauderdale's Port Everglades and Miami's PortMiami
  • Galveston, Texas
  • Manhattan or Brooklyn in New York City, New York

Caribbean Ports of Embarkation for Southern Caribbean Cruise Itineraries

  • San Juan, Puerto Rico (We know that Puerto Rico is a US Territory, but geographically, the island is in the Caribbean, and you would have to fly to get there.)
  • Bridgetown, Barbados
  • Marigot, St. Martin

Caribbean island of Puerto Rico seen from the air.

Small Cruise Ships vs. Large in the Southern Caribbean Islands

Which size ship is right for your cruise vacation  .

Each option has pros and cons, but we’re confident that what jumps out at you while reading these consideration lists will quickly inform your decision of what type of cruise to book. 

Consider Small Ship Cruises

  • Can often go to smaller, less touristy ports and locations.
  • On many ships, guests have to be 18 or older. This means no children are allowed. 
  • Marina platforms allow guests to experience the Caribbean Sea right off the boat, including free use of water toys like slides off the ship's side or kayaks.
  • Favorable guest-to-crew ratio. Some ships are nearly 2:1. 
  • Costs more than large ships, yet are not cost-prohibitive. 
  • The embarkation process is easier and quicker than for large cruise ships.
  • Often have just one or two restaurant options onboard. 
  • Cuisine may have more of a local focus, depending on ports. 
  • Onboard entertainment may be tailored to the region’s culture yet limited overall. 
  • Includes excursions in many ports.

Consider Large Ship Cruises

  • Thousands of passengers with a less favorable guest-to-crew ratio.
  • Kids are allowed, and there is childcare on many of the large ships. 
  • More budget-friendly than small luxury ships. 
  • Many entertainment options and activities onboard if you don’t want to get off the ship.
  • An abundance of restaurant options, from fine dining to casual.
  • Excursions are an additional cost per activity. 

Advantages of Booking Southern Caribbean Cruises

There are many advantages to consider when planning your vacations, looking at how you want to spend your hard-earned time off and time with your family. There are several reasons why Southern Caribbean cruises are great to book and ideal for your next cruise vacation. 

There Is Less Risk of Hurricanes in the Southern Caribbean

The beginning of June to the end of November constitutes the infamous season in the Atlantic known as “Hurricane Season.” The Gulf of Mexico and the Caribbean Sea are always affected at some point during the year. Unfortunately, some of the Caribbean Islands have gotten hit with major hurricanes over the years.

Statistically speaking, though, Southern Caribbean Islands experience fewer hurricanes than Northern Caribbean islands. This is another great reason why sailing the Southern Caribbean islands, like St. Lucia or Aruba, is “safer” than visiting northern ones, like the Bahamas or Turks and Caicos.

It’s important to note that predicting hurricanes as far out as when most people book cruises, (usually months to years) is almost impossible. Natural disasters also aren’t constantly happening for the entire season. Conversely, hurricanes can occur outside of hurricane season. 

If it sounds like booking a cruise surrounding unpredictable weather is a crap shoot, it is. 

That said, if you book a Southern Caribbean cruise from December through May, you should be in the clear, considering it's not hurricane season and the southern islands are less prone to hurricanes. That said, we advise booking travel insurance for a reason like this. 

We don’t opt for insurance through cruise lines because we have found separate insurance covers more. That’s why we always buy insurance separately, on our own, and read the fine print of what is included and what isn’t before we purchase a policy. 

Southern Caribbean Islands Are Close By

Traveling to a nearby destination means you will save time and money. 

You will save time because you’re likely traveling in the same time zone or one not too dissimilar from yours. After all, you’re still in the Americas. 

Your direct flights to the port of embarkation for your Southern Caribbean cruise won’t be eight to ten hours. Instead, if you’re traveling from the continental United States, your flight may be six hours from the west coast or just three hours or less from the east coast. 

The Culture Is Not American

We love the United States. But when we travel, we often want to escape the USA in favor of diverse cultural experiences to broaden our horizons. So while it’s a massive vacation planning advantage that the Caribbean is close by, it may also be appealing that Caribbean culture is different from American culture. 

Experiencing a new culture could mean being immersed in the mix of Dutch and French languages spoken on the island of “Sint Maarten,” which is the Dutch spelling of the island name, or spelled “Saint-Martin,” for the French. Or enjoying a historical, theatrical performance with a local group aboard Emerald Cruises yachts in St. Vincent and the Grenadines. 

An experience as simple as touring a cacao farm or trying the local food may be the cultural kick you need from your Southern Caribbean cruise vacation. 

Green cocoa pods on a tree branch and green leaves behind it in the Caribbean.

Most Islands Accept US Currency

Though you may be glad to travel outside of the United States, most of the Caribbean Islands accept US dollars, thanks to tourism. And most vendors, though not all, accept credit cards. Be glad you don’t have to convert currency for your Caribbean cruise.

It’s Always Warm in The Caribbean

It’s unfair to say there isn’t a cold day in the Southern Caribbean, ever. Never say never. However, if we were going to place a bet, we’d put all our money down that it will be above the 70s no matter when you cruise.  

Average annual temperatures for the Caribbean Islands are in the high 70s to low 90s. So if part of why you want to go on a Caribbean cruise is to bask in the warmth of the tropics, it’s nearly a sure thing. 

Cruise Lines That Travel to the Southern Caribbean

Eastern and Western Caribbean cruises may be more well-known itineraries because mega-cruise ships offer them to thousands upon thousands of cruisers each year. However, the Southern Caribbean is just as easy to travel to and, if you ask us, has more fascinating destinations. Thankfully, top cruise lines sail to the Southern Caribbean islands. 

You can find itineraries across popular companies, like Emerald Cruises, Celebrity Cruises, Disney Cruise Line, Royal Caribbean Cruises, Norwegian Cruise Line, Ritz-Carlton Yacht Club, Windstar, Crystal Cruises, Silversea Cruises, and more. Heck, even Maine Windjammer ships head to the Caribbean come winter.  

A better place to start if you have a specific Southern Caribbean island you want to visit may be to ask yourself which cruise line sails to that particular destination, then go from there. 

Small Ship Cruise : Emerald Cruises Yachts

Ships: Emerald Azzurra and Emerald Sakara 

  • Max 100 passengers
  • Only sails the Caribbean during non-hurricane season so you don’t have to be concerned about the time of year
  • Guests 18 and older, only
  • Includes beer, wine, and soft drinks with lunch and dinner
  • Every stateroom is spacious no matter the category
  • Includes some excursions
  • Southern Caribbean Cruise Starting Price (without any sales or offers): $4,535 per person for an 8-day Caribbean itinerary

It's no secret that one of our favorite small-ship cruise lines is Emerald Cruises. We adore the modern, sleek design of their cruise ships, including their state-of-the-art yachts. The food is some of the best food we’ve had in cruising, ever. The crew and quality of their excursions is top-notch. Emerald Cruises provides maximum value for the cost.

Read about our experience on Emerald Azzurra Yacht Cruise

The ship was absolutely beautiful, the crew was attentive and friendly, and we loved the food.

Emerald Azzurra yacht cruise ship docked as guests arrive to embark.

Large Ship Cruise: Celebrity Cruises

Ships: Several ships in their fleet have Caribbean itineraries, though only some sail the Southern Caribbean islands. Southern Caribbean cruise ships include Celebrity Cruises Edge-class, Solstice-class, and Millenium-class ships.

  •  ~2,200+  passengers, depending on the ship
  • Cruise line welcomes children
  • Southern Caribbean Cruise Starting Price (without any sales or offers): $1,958 per person for a 7-day Southern Caribbean Cruise on Celebrity Summit 

Celebrity Cruises is our kind of large-ship cruise line. While it’s not necessarily catering to children like Disney Cruise Line or Royal Caribbean, kids are welcome to sail. Their entertainment is really good (not outstanding, yet really good), and the dining venues – both included restaurants and ones available for additional fees  – are phenomenal. The art around Celebrity Cruises ships is also a draw.

Their Caribbean itineraries are plentiful across various ships in the fleet that sail the Caribbean islands. We also like that they have a lot of category options, including suites that are in The Retreat or AquaClass . 

Cruise Excursions in the Southern Caribbean

You can snorkel and spot tropical fish and sea turtles in the water, take a historic guided walk around town, or learn how chocolate is made in the Southern Caribbean. An excursion may be as simple as boarding a bus or tender boat that will take you to sandy, beautiful beaches along the coast.

If you’re on a large cruise ship you’ll pay an extra cost for excursions through the ship or coordinate them on your own. On the contrary, while you can book additional excursions through the cruise line or on your own with small cruises, they often already include some excursions in the cruise fare. 

Sea turtle swimming in the ocean.

Comparing Excursions of a Small Luxury Cruise Ship and a Large Cruise Ship in the Same Southern Caribbean Port

If you get decision paralysis, it may be tough to decide what excursion to sign up for on a large cruise ship due to the vastness of options. However, if you like a plethora of choices you will have many to choose from. All excursions cost extra on mega-cruise ships, from Royal Caribbean to Disney Cruise Line , Norwegian Cruise Line, and more.

Smaller ships have fewer options that are carefully curated for the audience. Some may be included in the cruise fare, while others may have a small charge, depending on the cruise line.

It’s hardly fair to compare being one of 100 guests on a luxury yacht cruise to the experience of being one of the thousands of guests on a large ship, we’ll compare the options of Southern Caribbean cruise excursions in one port as an example.

Regardless, big and small ships cater to different audiences, and this is just one example of that. 

St. Lucia Excursions Comparison 

Many people wonder what cruises sail to St. Lucia, so we’ll illustrate the excursion expectation on large cruise ships vs. small with this Southern Caribbean Island example. 

St. Lucia is an absolutely breathtaking island, where the beaches are sandy, they drive on the left side of the road, and serve Piton beer, named after their famous pair of mountains. 

When in St. Lucia on an Emerald Cruises yacht, there are four excursion options guests can choose from: 

  • The Essence of St. Lucia (included in the cruise fare)
  • Hiking the Pitons, St. Lucia’s famous mountains (included in the cruise fare)
  • Tree to Bar Chocolate Experience (extra expense)
  • Bird sanctuary, hiking trail, and farm visit (extra expense)

Princess Cruises offers 20 excursions through the cruise line when visiting St. Lucia. There are too many to list, but they include activities like zip lines, going to Sulfur Springs mud baths , beach horseback riding with a swim, and a 2.5 Scenic Byways drive around part of the island.

St. Lucia Piton mountains in the distance in the Southern Caribbean.

Relaxation awaits on your Southern Caribbean cruise. We always prefer to cruise on a smaller ship, so our number one recommendation is to book with Emerald Cruises for one of their yacht experiences.

However, we know there are other things to consider when booking a cruise, especially if you’re bringing children along. From the time of year you’re sailing, to budget, and excursions, you’re now equipped to plan your dream cruise on the Caribbean Sea. 

Southern Caribbean Cruises Planning Guide with a picture of the Caribbean sea behind hit.

Mikkel and Dan Woodruff co-own and operate Sometimes Sailing. Through their cruising expertise, they bring the best travel ideas on the world's waterways to their audience along with packing tips, budgeting advice, and seasonal deals. They have been featured on many of the best cruise podcasts, including DCL Duo and the Joy of Cruising. Their articles are nationally syndicated and have appeared on AP Wire various times.

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11 Best Southern Caribbean Cruise Ports

Southern Caribbean cruise ports offer warm temperatures to northerners who want to escape cold winters.

The Caribbean Sea is more than 1 million square miles and 1,000 miles from the northern tip to the southern tip. For that reason, temperatures in the southern destinations are often warmer than in the north. They matter to cruise and resort visitors who want to spend time on beaches and in the seawater.

Daytime temperatures average in the mid 80s Fahrenheit or mid 20s Celsius during the winter and into the low 90s Fahrenheit or low 30s Celsius during the summer. Rainfall is low in the winter, spring and early summer. It jumps in the fall during the annual Caribbean hurricane season.

A large number of seven-day cruises to southern Caribbean ports of call leave from San Juan , Puerto Rico, in order to reach the largest number of islands in the shortest period of time.

Southern Caribbean cruises often include ports that are listed on eastern Caribbean cruises.

Southern cruises often visit four or five ports. They include some combination of Antigua, Aruba, Barbados, Bonaire, Curacao, Dominica, San Juan, St. Kitts, St. Lucia and St. Maarten. They sometimes include the U.S. Virgin Islands for longer cruises that depart from Florida ports.

Ships dock at the capital city of St. John’s. The island is known for having 365 beaches or one for every day of the year. A decent one close to the cruise docks is Fort James Beach. A taxi is the best way to get there; be sure to negotiate the rate before getting into the cab.

Antigua has one of the most important naval bases in the Caribbean’s colonial history at English Harbour. The nearby Shirley Heights has military fortifications and an overlook of English Harbour.

Aruba is one of the smaller southern Caribbean islands. It also is one of the most arid. Aruba is known for Palm Beach, one of the best beaches in the Caribbean. It also is known for scuba diving among sunken ships. Aruba is one of the Dutch ABC islands of Aruba, Bonaire and Curacao, which lie quite near each other off the coast of Venezuela.

The island is one of the more commercial destinations in the Caribbean. But cruise visitors will find plenty of the usual island attractions plus a few that are unusual.

One of the best is swimming with sea turtles, a popular excursion just off the coast where the turtles gather. Harrison’s Cave has underground streams and a 40-foot waterfall.

Bonaire is the smallest, least populated and least visited southern Caribbean port. It has the same Dutch cultural flavors as Aruba and Curacao but not much of the commercialization. It is mainly known for snorkeling and scuba diving.

The cruise port of Willemstad is famous for the colorful harborfront street of Handelskade. This historic UNESCO World Heritage Site is among the most photographed sites in the Caribbean. Just beyond Handelskade is Punda, the city’s main commercial district. Cruise visitors will find plenty to see and do. It is not as well known for beaches as Aruba.

Dominica is promoting itself as an ecotourism vacation and with good reason. It is one of the better hiking experiences in the Caribbean because of rainforests, mountains and waterfalls. But it is not a beach destination. The island has some of the highest rainfalls in the Caribbean.

San Juan is a common departure port for southern Caribbean cruises. Tourists who fly into San Juan and have time to explore should consider going to Old San Juan, which is close to the cruise docks.

Old San Juan has two famous forts, cobblestone streets and a variety of historical and architectural attractions. It can easily fill anywhere from two hours to six hours of time before or after a cruise.

St. Kitts had promoted itself as an ecotourism destination because it was quiet and undeveloped compared to some bigger islands.

It has taken a step up in recent years with a new cruise mall filled with shops, restaurants and entertainment. Visitors walk right off the docks and into the open-air mall.

The St. Kitts Scenic Railway is unique in the Caribbean. Guests can take a 30-mile route around the island and encircle the 3,800-foot Mount Liamuiga.

St. Lucia has a pretty cruise port and even prettier landscape in the interior of the island. We fondly remember an ATV excursion along the rugged coastline.

The most famous landmark is the Pitons, a pair of mountains that stand 2,000 feet over the island. Visitors there can hike, photograph and take volcanic mud baths. The views in the more remote part of the island are among the best in the Caribbean.

St. Maarten

This small but beautiful island has fewer attractions, although visitors are more likely to go because of cruises and for quiet overnight vacations.

Perhaps the best attraction on the island is the cruise port of Philipsburg. It is one of the best in the Caribbean because of its size and atmosphere. It is packed with shops and restaurants.

Other attractions include the famous (and clothing optional) Orient Bay beach and the French towns of Marigot and Grand Case, which have the best restaurants on the island. I recommend the panoramic views atop Fort Louis and taking an excursion to the nearby St. Barth or Anguilla.

St. Thomas isn’t technically a southern Caribbean island, but southern Caribbean cruises often stop there on their way from San Juan to the south.

Any list of attractions starts with shopping in Havensight Mall at the cruise port as well as in the capital city of Charlotte Amalie on St. Thomas. Buck Island is one of the few fully protected marine parks in the United States.

Virgin Islands National Park includes an underwater reserve that makes up 5,650 acres. For these reasons, the U.S. Virgin Islands abound with snorkeling and diving opportunities.

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Caribbean (Southern)

Crystal-clear water, palm trees swaying in the breeze and the hypnotizing beat of a calypso drum. These are the memories you'll have of your Southern Caribbean cruise. This Caribbean region sees fewer cruisers than other parts of the Caribbean, yet has a great selection of ports. With fewer days at sea, Southern Caribbean cruises stop nearly every day of the voyage to visit unique destinations, each characterized by different cultures, atmospheres and terrain.

Most Southern Caribbean cruises depart from San Juan, Puerto Rico, for a weeklong itinerary, although longer itineraries are sometimes offered from Miami and Fort Lauderdale and occasionally from U.S. cities along the East Coast. St. Maarten and St. Thomas, popular Eastern Caribbean ports, are often featured on these itineraries, as are a handful of South American cities. You may also find that smaller, luxury cruise ships prefer cruising this region of the Caribbean en route to smaller, less-traveled Caribbean destinations.

Each port on a Southern Caribbean itinerary offers something different. Aruba and Antigua are well-known for their beautiful beaches, and lush rain forests are a highlight for tourists in Dominica. Snorkel in the turquoise waters off the island of Barbados. Visit French boutiques and eateries in St. Barthelemy and drive right up to a volcano in St. Lucia. The lesser-known islands of St. Vincent and Guadeloupe are a tropical paradise of unspoiled beauty.

  • The Southern Caribbean is blessed with continuously balmy, pleasant weather, making it a year-round cruising destination.
  • Southern Caribbean cruises last 3 to 14 nights.
  • Southern Caribbean cruises are particularly kid-friendly, making them ideal for family getaways. Most ships have children's programs, youth counselors and children's activity centers.
  • Although Southern Caribbean cruises are offered from U.S. cities such as Fort Lauderdale or New York, they generally depart from San Juan, Puerto Rico, and other Caribbean destinations. Due to the small number of flights being offered to these departure cities, it is advised that you arrive a day before your Southern Caribbean cruise departs. This will give you time to rest and get oriented before boarding the ship. Most cruise lines offer pre-cruise hotel packages.

southern caribbean cruise lines

Southern Caribbean Cruises

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Absorb local culture, discover the rich history of European colonialism and explore the pastel vistas of Dutch architecture whilst watching a game of cricket on a cruise to The Caribbean . Cruise to the Southern Caribbean and venture deep into exotic island activities. Ride on horseback along the pristine coastline when you cruise to Aruba, zip line through a lush canopy whilst travelling to Curacao and experience some of the world's most beautiful beaches where you can snorkel to see vibrant marine life or just kick back and soak up the rays.

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Disney Cruise Line Unveils New Sailings to Europe, Alaska, Bahamas and the Caribbean

Disney Cruise Line is offering family vacations around the world beginning in the summer of 2025.

Itineraries include tropical getaways to The Bahamas and the Caribbean from Florida, Alaska adventures, and, for the first time, European sailings to the Mediterranean and Northern Europe on the Disney Fantasy.

The Disney Fantasy will spend its first summer season in Europe in 2025, visiting European destinations from Northern Europe to the Mediterranean from May to late July. Five-12-night sailings from Barcelona, Spain, and Civitavecchia (Rome), Italy, will visit picturesque ports of call throughout the Mediterranean. One 12-night sailing to the Greek Isles will feature three stops in Greece, two in Italy and the season’s only stop in Valetta, Malta. 

From late July to September, the Disney Fantasy will sail from Southampton, United Kingdom, to destinations including Spain, Norway and the British Isles. 

The Disney Wonder will again embark on adventures to Alaska from Vancouver, Canada, with five-, seven-, eight- and nine-night sailings from May to September. Families will encounter the breathtaking natural beauty of the last frontier, combined with Disney magic on cruises to Juneau, Skagway and Ketchikan, with port adventures offering excursions to Alaska’s majestic glaciers and gold mining relics.

Four Disney Cruise Line ships will homeport in Florida in summer 2025 with three ships out of Port Canaveral and one departing from Fort Lauderdale to The Bahamas and Caribbean, including Disney’s magical island destinations.

The newest ship in the Disney Cruise Line fleet, The Disney Treasure, will follow its inaugural season with seven-night itineraries from Port Canaveral to the Eastern and Western Caribbean.

Eastern Caribbean sailings will visit Disney’s private island paradise, Disney Castaway Cay, and Tortola and St. Thomas. Western Caribbean sailings will call on ports in Falmouth, Jamaica, Grand Cayman, and Cozumel, Mexico. The week-long voyages will offer at least two days at sea, giving families more time to enjoy the unique spaces, immersive dining, and world-class onboard entertainment.

The Disney Magic will homeport in Port Canaveral for the first time since summer, 2016, embarking on four and five-night sailings to The Bahamas and both Disney’s island destinations. One special 10-night Southern Caribbean sailing in July will visit both Disney Cruise Line’s island destinations along with Antigua, St. Kitts, San Juan and Tortola in the British Virgin Islands.

Both the Disney Magic and the Disney Dream will take guests to Disney Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point, a one-of-a-kind retreat on the island of Eleuthera, in summer, 2025.

The tropical getaway will provide a unique window into the rich culture of The Bahamas merged with Disney’s signature entertainment and service. Select itineraries include stops at both Disney Castaway Cay and Disney Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point , with six Disney Magic or Disney Dream cruises sailing exclusively to Disney’s island destinations.

The Disney Wish will also sail from Port Canaveral, offering three and four-night sailings to Nassau and the beaches of Disney Castaway Cay.

In South Florida, the Disney Dream will sail from Fort Lauderdale on three five-night sailings to one or both of Disney’s magical island destinations, along with Nassau or Cozumel. 

Disney Cruise Line in Alaska

Cruise line stops visits to popular Caribbean resort amid U.S. travel advisory

A major cruise line has suspended ships from going to the Caribbean nation of Haiti because of an increase of violence and unrest in the area.

Royal Caribbean has suspended calls at Labadee “due to the evolving situation in Haiti,” the company said in a prepared statement as reported by Cruiseindustrynews.com.

“We continue to monitor and assess the situation with our Global Security & Intelligence Team,” Royal Caribbean continued. Neither passengers nor crew have faced violence or threats, the company said.

This comes after the State Department urged people to not visit and implemented a Travel Advisory earlier this month. The U.S. Embassy in Port-au-Prince told American tourists to “not travel to Haiti” in a press release issued March 10 .

“The current security situation in Haiti is unpredictable and dangerous,” the statement continued. “We are aware that there are few or no commercial options to depart Haiti safely at this time. As they become available, we urge U.S. citizens to take advantage of them.”

A do-not-travel alert for Haiti was issued in July 2023 for what the State Department described as “kidnapping, crime, civil unrest and poor health care infrastructure.”

The Travel Advisory for Haiti is now at Level Four, which discourages any travel to the country.

American travelers in Haiti are advised to avoid crowds, avoid being outside after dark, prepare to shelter in place, keep a low profile and be aware of their surroundings, the U.S. Embassy said.

Several Royal Caribbean ships were set to visit Labadee over the next several days. Instead, those stops will be replaced by a day at sea as well as extra time at a previously scheduled stop in Falmouth, Jamaica.

Other ships will visit Nassau, the Bahamas or Perfect Day at CocoCay, another company-owned location.

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More than 33,000 people have fled Haiti’s capital in a span of nearly two weeks as gangs continue to pillage homes and attack state institutions , according to a new report by the U.N.’s International Organization for Migration (IOM).

The majority of those displaced have traveled to Haiti’s southern region, which is generally peaceful compared with Port-au-Prince, which has an estimated population of 3 million, and remains largely paralyzed by gang violence . The airport in Port-au-Prince has also been closed because of the violence.

Scores of people have been killed and some 17,000 people overall have been left homeless since the gang attacks began on Feb. 29, with gunmen targeting police stations and the main international airport that remains closed.

They also stormed Haiti’s two biggest prisons and released more than 4,000 inmates.

More than 90% of those fleeing did so by bus, forced to go through the community of Martissant, which connects Port-au-Prince with Haiti’s southern region, and is controlled by warring gangs that have killed dozens of civilians in the area.

IOM noted that Haiti’s southern region is already home to another 116,000 people who fled gang violence in previous months, and that rural provinces do not have the infrastructure or resources “to cope with these massive displacement flows coming from the capital.”

The majority of new arrivals have settled in cities like Les Cayes, Jérémie and Léogâne, with more than half of Haitians interviewed saying they chose to relocate to the south because they’re originally from there. Nearly all said they planned to stay with family.

More than 70% of people who fled Port-au-Prince between March 8-20 said gang violence had already left them homeless and that they had been living with relatives or in crowded, makeshift shelters. More people are expected to leave the capital in upcoming days and weeks as gang violence continues unabated.

The Associated Press contributed to the reporting of this story.

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Is it safe to travel to Haiti right now? What travelers should know

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The State Department is urging Americans not to travel to Haiti amid fresh gang violence in the country, which declared a state of emergency last week.

While neither the warnings nor violence are entirely new – Haiti has been a Level 4: Do Not Travel destination in State Department travel advisories since before the 2021 assassination of President Jovenel Moïse – a spate of recent high-profile attacks, including an attempt by armed gangs to seize control of the country’s main international airport, has sparked renewed urgency. 

“The current security situation in Haiti is unpredictable and dangerous,” the U.S. Embassy in Haiti said in a security alert issued Sunday. “We are aware that there are few or no commercial options to depart Haiti safely at this time. As they become available, we urge U.S. citizens to take advantage of them. The U.S. Embassy’s ability to assist U.S. citizens is severely limited.” 

The U.S. military stepped in to airlift American personnel “into and out of the Embassy” to augment security, U.S. Southern Command said Sunday in a statement to USA TODAY. The embassy is also coordinating assisted departure flights "through non-commercial means" for U.S. citizens, according to its website .

Americans in Haiti can fill out crisis intake forms and enroll in the State Department’s Smart Traveler Enrollment Program program for updates. 

Learn more: Best travel insurance

Here’s what airlines and cruise lines are doing about trips to Haiti:

Haiti violence: Military airlifts American personnel out of embassy as Haiti spirals into violence

Are there direct flights to Haiti?

Three U.S. airlines typically operate direct flights to Haiti: American, JetBlue and Spirit. However, all three have temporarily suspended service and issued travel waivers for the Caribbean destination.

◾ American Airlines customers with flights scheduled to, through, or from Port-au-Prince (PAP) through March 25 may modify flights without paying change fees. Changes must be made by March 25 with the same origin and destination cities as the original booking.

◾ JetBlue Airways is waiving change and cancellation fees for travelers with flights scheduled to and from Port-au-Prince through April 15. Changes can be made through April 30.

◾ Spirit Airlines is waiving change fees and fare differences on travel to, from, or through Cap Haitien (CAP) and Port-au-Prince through April 15. Travelers should rebook by April 30. After that, the airline said change fees would still be waived, but fare differences may apply.

Is Royal Caribbean still going to Haiti?

Royal Caribbean and its sister line Celebrity Cruises normally sail to Labadee, Haiti , a private destination roughly six hours away from Port-au-Prince by car. However Royal Caribbean is skipping several previously scheduled stops, in coming days.

The following sailings will not go to Labadee.

  • Adventure of the Seas: 3/15 sailing 
  • Mariner of the Seas: 3/16 sailing
  • Explorer of the Seas: 3/17 sailing 
  • Oasis of the Seas: 3/17, 3/24, 3/31, 4/7 and 4/14 sailings
  • Symphony of the Seas: 3/17, 3/23, 3/31, 4/6, 4/14, 4/20 and 4/28 sailings
  • Grandeur of the Seas: 3/18 sailing 
  • Independence of the Seas: 4/4, 4/8, 4/18 and 4/22 sailings

"The safety and security of our guests, crew, and communities we visit are our top priority," a Royal Caribbean spokesperson said in a statement to USA TODAY. "Our Global Security and Intel Team is closely monitoring the evolving situation in Haiti, and in an abundance of caution, we are temporarily making adjustments to sailings visiting Labadee. We will continue to monitor and reassess calls as needed, and will communicate updates with guests directly."

As recently as March 11, the cruise line had not canceled any sailings to Labadee, but was keeping a close on the situation while noting that it had private security in the area, which was closed to the public.

It doesn’t look like any Celebrity cruises are scheduled there until fall.

Contributing: Nathan Diller, USA TODAY

Eve Chen is a travel reporter  for USA TODAY based in Atlanta. You can reach her at [email protected].

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    Southern Caribbean cruise ports offer warm temperatures to northerners who want to escape cold winters. The Caribbean Sea is more than 1 million square miles and 1,000 miles from the northern tip to the southern tip. ... Ships dock at the capital city of St. John's. The island is known for having 365 beaches or one for every day of the year.

  17. Southern Caribbean Cruises: Best Price and Service Guarantee!

    We offer deeply discounted rates on every sailing from the world's best lines. Southern Caribbean cruises typically range from seven to 14 nights in length and are available year-round. These sailings may visit islands like Aruba, Barbados, Bonaire, Curacao or Grenada. The planning and booking process is easy with our fast and friendly Southern ...

  18. 11 Night Southern Caribbean Cruise

    The 11 Night Southern Caribbean Cruise visits Galveston, Texas; Cozumel, Mexico; Willemstad, Curacao; Oranjestad, Aruba; George Town, Grand Cayman and Galveston, Texas. Explore our cruise itineraries and choose from a variety of rooms depending on your needs and budget. Start planning your next cruise vacation by selecting a destination and ...

  19. Princess Destinations: Caribbean (Southern)

    Most Southern Caribbean cruises depart from San Juan, Puerto Rico, for a weeklong itinerary, although longer itineraries are sometimes offered from Miami and Fort Lauderdale and occasionally from U.S. cities along the East Coast. ... Most cruise lines offer pre-cruise hotel packages. Find a Bargain Please choose a vacation type. Call us at 800 ...

  20. Southern Caribbean Cruises: All Cruise Lines

    Save with huge discounts on all cruise line that operate Southern Caribbean cruises. Powered by Vacations To Go, with over 8 million happy customers since 1984. My Account 800-338-4962 Our office is open now. ... This legendary cruise line visits 350 ports worldwide and offers an alluring combination of gourmet cuisine, lively entertainment and ...

  21. SOUTHERN CARIBBEAN CRUISES

    There are family holidays. Then there are the kinds of awe-inspiring holidays your family will remember forever. Sail on a Southern Caribbean cruise with Norwegian and discover the ease and convenience of unpacking once and experiencing it all. Freedom, flexibility, and family entertainment offered on cruises to the Southern Caribbean allow guests of all sizes to experience the best holiday ever.

  22. 10-14 Day Cruises to the Southern Caribbean

    Lowest pricing is based on our 3rd party pricing supplier and valid as of March 19th, 2024. Looking for 10 day cruises to the Southern Caribbean? Find and plan your next 10 day cruise to the ...

  23. Disney Cruise Line Unveils New Sailings to Europe, Alaska, Bahamas and

    One special 10-night Southern Caribbean sailing in July will visit both Disney Cruise Line's island destinations along with Antigua, St. Kitts, San Juan and Tortola in the British Virgin Islands.

  24. 10 Night Southern Caribbean Cruise

    10 Night Southern Caribbean Cruise. Itinerary Overview. Explore Explorer of the Seas. Day 1 - Miami, Florida. Day 2 - International Date Line. Day 3 - Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic. Day 4 - San Juan, Puerto Rico. Day 5 - Philipsburg, St. Maarten. Day 6 - Roseau, Dominica.

  25. Trying Brunch Spots on Royal Caribbean

    Being a Southern American styled restaurant, there are a lot of regional favorites here: blueberry johnnycakes, spinach 'n pimento cheese omelet, and fried chicken 'n waffles. ... Started in 2010, Royal Caribbean Blog offers daily coverage of news and information related to the Royal Caribbean cruise line along with other relevant topics of ...

  26. Cruise line stops visits to popular Caribbean resort amid U ...

    A major cruise line has suspended ships from going to the Caribbean nation of Haiti because of an increase of violence and unrest in the area. Royal Caribbean has suspended calls at Labadee "due ...

  27. Haiti travel: What airlines, Royal Caribbean are doing amid violence

    Royal Caribbean and its sister line Celebrity Cruises normally sail to Labadee, Haiti, a private destination roughly six hours away from Port-au-Prince by car. However Royal Caribbean is skipping ...

  28. Entertainer Sues Cruise Line Over Passenger Action On Stage

    Well-known Australian magician Ben Murphy has filed suit against Royal Caribbean Group, Royal Caribbean Cruises, Ltd. and the assailant who tackled him during a performance on March 1, 2023 ...

  29. Your ship

    The from , visits Explore our cruise itineraries and choose from a variety of rooms depending on your needs and budget. Start planning your next cruise vacation by selecting a destination and departure port.