Eastern Caribbean Cruises

Eastern Caribbean Cruises

Palm trees, unspoiled beaches, crystal blue water: When most people think about taking a cruise, they’re likely envisioning Eastern Caribbean cruises.

Because of the region’s fascinating history, cruises to the Eastern Caribbean can expose you to a variety of cultures. You’ll find  English, Spanish, French, Dutch, and Danish influences as you visit. The most popular Eastern Caribbean islands include Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands, as well as the British Virgin Islands, all part of the Leeward Islands. Depending on the length of our cruise, you may see other Leeward Islands like Saint Martin/Sint Maarten or St. Kitts and Nevis; or the Windward Islands which include Barbados and St. Lucia. If departing from Florida’s east coast, your ship may also visit Turks and Caicos on the way.

Cruising to the Eastern Caribbean

Cruises to the Eastern Caribbean typically start in Florida, most commonly Miami, Fort Lauderdale, and Port Canaveral, although you can also find departures from as far away as New York. Many cruisers opt to fly to San Juan, Puerto Rico to start their trip. With a cruise port in historic Old San Juan, just traveling to Puerto Rico is a nice mini-vacation in itself.

The best times to cruise to the Eastern Caribbean are winter and spring, before the rainy season and hurricane season start. However, temperatures in the region are fairly consistent year-round. For the most part, you can expect average high temperatures in the 80s and lows in the 70s, no matter what month you travel to the Eastern Caribbean.

What Can You do in the Eastern Caribbean?

Aside from visiting the beach, the Eastern Caribbean is filled with fun activities and excursions. In St. Thomas, USVI, the Skyride is a quick gondola tram ride that takes you to one of the island’s highest points, Paradise Point. This Instagram-worthy spot offers amazing views of the entire island and the Charlotte Amalie harbor. While you’re up there, order a Bailey’s Bushwacker, their signature cocktail.

One of the most unique beach experience you can enjoy is a visit to the famous Maho Beach in Sint Maarten. Although the beach itself is small, the vibe is fun, with beachside bars and even a nearby casino. But the main attraction is the adjacent landing strip for Princess Juliana International Airport. The planes are so low as they fly over the beach, you feel like you can almost reach out and touch them. If you plan to visit, the best plane spotting is typically in mid-afternoon when the larger jets arrive.

In St. Lucia, you can get up close and personal with the Pitons, the two side-by-side volcanic peaks that symbolize the island. The Pitons are even on the St. Lucia flag! While on the island, take a trip to Sulfur Springs, which bills itself as the world’s only drive-in volcano. Although it last erupted in the 1700s, the Soufrier Volcano is still active– although it’s much better known for its mud baths and amazing waterfalls.

In Old San Juan, wander the blue cobblestone streets on your way to the city’s two massive forts, Castillo San Felipe del Morro and Castillo San Cristobal. Want to see more of Puerto Rico? Take an excursion to El Yunque National Forest, the only tropical rainforest in the U.S. Parks System.

If your ship docks in Tortola, BVI, consider taking the ferry to nearby Virgin Gorda island to experience The Baths. Wedged between massive volcanic boulders, you’ll find secluded natural pools, including the famed Cathedral Room. The Baths is also home to white sandy beaches as well as snorkeling in crystal clear water.

Harrison’s Cave is another must-see natural formation. Located near the center of the island in Barbados, you can tour the spectacular caverns and labyrinth of tunnels from the comfort of an electric tram. You’ll even see a spectacular underground waterfall.

While these are some of the most popular activities in the Eastern Caribbean, no matter what you choose, you’ll have an amazing visit in this fascinating part of the world.

Book Your Eastern Caribbean Excursion Now

Major Cruise Lines that Visit the Eastern Caribbean:

Specialty and Luxury Eastern Caribbean Cruises:

  • Azamara Cruises
  • Costa Cruises
  • Cunard Line
  • Emerald Cruises
  • Explora Journeys
  • Oceania Cruises
  • Regent Seven Seas Cruises
  • Ritz-Carlton Yacht Cruises
  • Sea Dream Yacht Club
  • Seabourn Cruises
  • Silversea Cruises
  • Star Clipper Cruises
  • Viking Ocean Cruises
  • Windstar Cruises

Ready to Visit the Eastern Caribbean?

No matter how you choose to cruise to the Windward and Leeward Islands, Sea Vixen Voyages is excited to help you plan your adventure. Fill out our no-obligation inquiry form and let’s get started!