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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

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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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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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SOUTHERN CARIBBEAN CRUISES

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What to Do in the Southern Caribbean

Absorb local culture, discover the rich history of European colonialism and explore the pastel vistas of Dutch architecture while 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 while traveling 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.

Explore Our Three SOUTHERN CARIBBEAN CRUISE PORTS

Miami, Florida

New York, New York

San Juan, Puerto Rico

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A Southern Caribbean Family Vacation THEY'LL NEVER FORGET

Southern Caribbean Cruise Packages for the Entire Family

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Find the best southern caribbean cruises.

Southern Caribbean Cruises

Unique flavors, diverse cultural history — immerse yourself in hidden island gems.

A Southern Caribbean Cruise will spoil anyone with its natural beauty that leaves even the most seasoned traveler speechless. Find vibrant green rainforests teeming with life, coral reefs that buzz with hundreds of aquatic species and a people whose kindness is as deep as their cultural history is diverse. Take those extra steps, travel a little farther, and allow yourself to discover the heart of the Caribbean.

* Port order and/or content may vary by sailing date.

Featured Southern Caribbean Cruise Ports

Survey the Southern Caribbean’s most famous islands (plus our main departure port).

Aruba defies expectations with a vibrant desert interior ringed with white sand beaches, a dramatic northern coastline, and quaint colonial Dutch architecture. Cruise to Aruba's famous aloe plantations and factories, and learn their historical importance to the island. Visit the California lighthouse, named for the steamship that sank off the coast over a hundred years ago. Stroll through Oranjestad, the picturesque, Dutch-inspired capital while browsing for the perfect souvenir to remind you of your time here.

View cruises with Aruba | View Aruba shore excursions

A small paradise off the coast of Venezuela, Bonaire has some of the world's most pristine diving and snorkeling locations. Preserved coral reefs wait in the warm water, easy to explore from the comfortable beach clubs ashore. Take a diving or snorkeling expedition to the uninhabited island of Klein Bonaire, offroad through the wild mangrove forests and salt flats of the island's interior, or take in the sights of the quaint Dutch-influenced capital by trolley.

View cruises with Bonaire | View Bonaire shore excursions

With its dramatic landscapes, arid interior and pastel-painted Dutch-style houses, Curaçao is a distinct delight nestled in the warm Caribbean Sea. Cruises to Curaçao allow you to enjoy many beautiful beaches, snorkel through the shipwreck of a 50-year-old tugboat, or marvel at the striking sea cliffs of Boka Tabla. If the history of the island fascinates you, take a tour of the charming capital of Willemstad, or visit Fort Amsterdam and see the cannonball still embedded in its walls from a battle hundreds of years ago.

View cruises with Curaçao | View Curaçao shore excursions

Pristine, lush and alive, Dominica escaped modern civilization's penchant for paving every surface and has remained a nature lover's paradise. Dive into the gorgeous blue depths of the dormant volcanic crater in Scotts Head Marine Reserve, and witness the vibrant sea life that makes it a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Explore the verdant rainforests, botanical gardens and waterfalls of the island's interior, and experience a slice of heaven on earth.

View cruises with Dominica | View Dominica shore excursions

A lush rainforest-covered island nestled between two volcanic peaks, the UNESCO World Heritage Site known as the Pitons, St. Lucia is the definition of a tropical paradise. Cruise to St. Lucia and visit the famous Pitons, journey to the only drive-through volcanic cavern in the world, or experience the sulfur mud baths and recharge your batteries in ancient pools. Travel to the town of Soufriere, supposedly the birthplaces of Napoleon's Queen Josephine, zipline through the lush jungle canopy, or relax on one of the islands many resort beaches.

View cruises with St. Lucia | View St. Lucia shore excursions

Ft. Lauderdale

The "Venice of America" has been the premier destination for spring breakers for almost six decades, but don't let that fool you into thinking the city is one big party. From the Everglades, a UNESCO World Heritage Site home to an amazingly rich biosphere, to seven miles of white-sand beaches, Ft. Lauderdale is a beautifully diverse city.

Cruises with Ft. Lauderdale | Ft. Lauderdale shore excursions | Learn more about Ft. Lauderdale

What Will You Do on a Southern Caribbean Cruise?

Top-rated caribbean beaches.

Eagle Beach, Aruba

Perfection might be the best word to describe the picturesque Eagle Beach. Aruba cruises offer soft white sand, shimmering turquoise water and a quiet atmosphere make relaxation easy. Take in the surroundings from a lounge chair, swim the calm warm waters, and enjoy local cuisine right near the beach.

Kenepa Beach, Curaçao

A picturesque beach, sheltered between two rock outcroppings, makes for calm azure waters and relaxing beach days. The sand is soft, white and warm, and everything you could want to complement the beautiful scenery is right at your fingertips.

Mambo Beach, Willemstad, Curaçao

Grab a lounger and relax on the soft white sands, rent snorkel equipment, and swim through the pristine blue waters observing magnificent sea life, or grab a snack at the many eateries on the boardwalk as you indulge in some luxurious shopping.

Island Shore Excursions

Experience the best the Southern Caribbean has to offer with award-winning shore excursions that immerse you in thrilling experiences, unique culinary delights and peaceful rejuvenation. Explore the quaint Dutch-inspired capitals of the ABC islands, snorkel in a dormant volcanic crater teeming with life, or immerse yourself in ancient, rejuvenating sulfur mud baths.

Learn more about Caribbean Shore Excursions

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 in ports such as Aruba, Curacao, St. Maarten and Bonaire 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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

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!

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.

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

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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.

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

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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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.

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

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

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.

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7 Amazing Southern Caribbean Cruise Destinations

The part of the Caribbean located furthest from popular cruise ports in Florida , such as Fort Lauderdale, Tampa and Miami , the Southern Caribbean is less-visited than the Western and Eastern Caribbean. That’s not to say it’s also less beautiful, though. Rather the contrary, in fact, it boasts gorgeous tropical islands, fascinating cultural heritage, and that laid-back vibe that makes the Caribbean such a popular cruise destination. Let’s check out some of the best destinations to visit on Southern Caribbean cruises.

Best Southern Caribbean Cruise Destinations

7 stunning islands to visit on southern caribbean cruises.

The Southern Caribbean islands are the far southwestern corner of the Caribbean Region. They’re more or less the border between the Caribbean Sea and the Atlantic Ocean, located just off the north coast of South America. The island group includes some of the smallest—and also most beautiful—islands in the entire region.

So, if you’re wondering which destinations you can visit and explore on Southern Caribbean cruises, check out the amazing list below. Stunning beaches, towering volcanoes, verdant rain forests, swaying palm trees, historic towns, bustling waterfronts, mouthwatering food,… it’s all there.

The westernmost of the Southern Caribbean islands, Aruba is just north of the coast of Venezuela. Along with Bonaire and Curaçao, these three Dutch islands are known as the ABC Islands. A former Dutch colony and still part of the Netherlands, Aruba is home to some amazing Dutch colonial architecture, especially in photogenic Oranjestad.

Unlike many other Southern Caribbean cruise destinations, however, Aruba has no tropical jungles or mountains. Instead, the island has a rather flat and arid landscape, dotted with cacti and caves. Its shoreline, on the other hand, is as stunning as any other in the Caribbean. From Aruba’s dramatic north coast to spectacular white sand beaches, this is a great destination for sunbathing, snorkeling and swimming with sea turtles.

On Southern Caribbean cruises to Aruba, you can also visit the island’s historic aloe plantations, the California Lighthouse and browse the numerous boutiques and souvenir shops in Oranjestad.

Few small islands represent the entire Caribbean vibe and image as well as Barbados. It’s easily one of the most popular Southern Caribbean cruise destinations. The capital of this stunning coral island is Bridgetown, a centuries-old city founded by the British. Since its establishment in the 1600’s, the city has developed to become the major tourist destination it is today.

There’s tons of culture and history to discover in Bridgetown, including Historic Bridgetown and its Garrison, which has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2011. Besides its wealth of colonial history, Barbados also boasts beautiful sandy beaches, rich fauna and flora, and dazzlingly blue water.

But it doesn’t stop there, though! This is also the birthplace of rum, which is probably the most typical and famous liquor from the Caribbean. Consider paying a visit to the Mount Gay Distillery in Barbados. Founded in 1702, it’s the oldest still-operating rum distillery in the world.

And that’s not all! Barbados also happens to be the birthplace of rum, arguably the most characteristic alcoholic drink from the Caribbean. You can visit the Mount Gay Distillery , founded in 1703 and the world’s oldest rum distillery.

Just like its neighbors, Curaçao and Aruba, Bonaire is outside of the Caribbean’s so-called Hurricane Alley. While some of the other cruise destinations in the Southern Caribbean, and especially in the Western and Eastern Caribbean, get hit by hurricanes almost annually , the ABC Islands are usually spared.

Bonaire, too, has a relatively dry climate, its landscapes consisting of shrublands, salt flats and mangroves. The real attraction of Bonaire is its rich marine life. In addition to gorgeous beaches, the island has some of the most pristine snorkeling and scuba diving locations in the world. Bonaire’s beaches, coral reefs and land reserves are part of Bonaire National Marine Park, which offers world-class underwater exploration.

Home to one of the best-known towns in the Southern Caribbean, Curaçao is a wonderful island that sits peacefully in the southern Caribbean Sea. The capital is postcard-perfect Willemstad, famous for its vibrant waterfront lined with pastel-colored Dutch-style houses. Walk around this historic town or explore Fort Amsterdam, browse the countless shops and eat out at local restaurants

In a nutshell, Curaçao is the meeting point of Europe and the West Indies, resulting in a cosmopolitan blend of culture and colors. This is the largest of the former Netherlands Antilles, a gorgeous island home to epic beaches, a bustling island life, excellent snorkeling locations, local liqueur distilleries, and natural attractions like the Hato Caves and Boka Tabla Sea Cliffs.

Nature lovers planning a cruise to the Southern Caribbean may want to make sure Dominica is part of their itinerary. One of the northernmost islands in the Southern Caribbean, Dominica is nicknamed “Nature Island”, home to breathtaking parks and reserves.

On this lush island, you can hike in rain forests, visit thundering waterfalls, explore botanical gardens and unwind in bubbling hot springs. Also consider visiting Scott’s Head Marine Reserve. This UNESCO World Heritage Site offers world-class scuba diving and snorkeling in a dormant volcanic crater. Additionally, another truly unique experience is swimming in the waters of Champagne Beach, which got its name from the volcanic gases that fizzle toward the surface from the ocean floor.

Dominica’s capital, Roseau, is the one of the smallest capitals in the entire Caribbean, yet it oozes charm, liveliness and general joie de vivre. Indulge in homecooked Creole meals, browse the Roseau Market, enjoy the beats of soca and reggae you’ll hear all over town. This is island life at its absolute best.

One of the Windward Islands, Martinique is just north of St. Lucia and south of Dominica, making it a logical and convenient stop on Southern Caribbean cruises. Its location is not the main reason so many cruise ships visit the island, though. Martinique offers everything you think of when dreaming about a Caribbean cruise holiday, from historic sites and delicious food to beautiful beaches.

Part of France, the island boasts a rich local and colonial history. Visit amazing places like the ruins of the 17 th -century Chateau Dubuc or the Cathedrale St. Louis in Fort-de-France, the island’s capital and one of the largest cities in the Caribbean.

When you choose a cruise to the Southern Caribbean that includes a stop in Martinique, you get to experience a truly unique island life. Stroll Fort-de-France’s cobbled streets, sunbathe on Plage Anse d’Arlet and indulge in sensational French-Caribbean fusion cuisine at one of the numerous local restaurants.

In terms of sheer natural beauty, few island nations in the Southern Caribbean are as objectively stunning as St. Lucia, home to the majestic Piton Mountains. Covered by lush rain forests, these two volcanic peaks are a UNESCO World Heritage Site, which you can explore.

Other popular attractions that show the volcanic origins of the island of St. Lucia include sulfur mud baths, ancient pools and the world’s only drive-thru volcanic cave. Very few Southern Caribbean cruise itineraries skip St. Lucia, simply because it’s so spectacular—the very epitome of a tropical paradise.

Cruise ships visiting St. Lucia dock in Castries, the island’s largest city and capital. Disembark and immerse yourself in the wonderful world of Caribbean island life. Visit banana plantations, go ziplining through the rain forest, swim at resort beaches or go duty-free shopping. We’re pretty sure you’ll want to stay longer!

Cruise Lines That Offer Southern Caribbean Cruises

Many of the world’s biggest cruises lines offer Southern Caribbean cruises. Here’s a selection of the major ones.

• Carnival Cruises
• Celebrity Cruises
• Cunard Line
• Disney Cruise Line
• Holland America Line
• MSC Cruises
• Norwegian Cruise Line
• Oceania Cruises
• Princess Cruises
• Regent Seven Seas Cruises
• Royal Caribbean
• Silversea Cruises

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Born and raised in Belgium, Bram is currently based in the Pacific Northwest where he spends his days blogging, hiking, indulging in freshly roasted coffee and sipping craft beers. An experienced traveler, his… More about Bram R

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Caribbean Destinations: Which Caribbean Islands Are Where

One of the unequivocally best cruise destinations is the Caribbean , a place that leads to visualizations of vast white beaches, slouching palm trees and turquoise waters. With more than 700 islands, islets and cays, the Caribbean offers saturated landscapes and crystalline coastlines along with a myriad of unique experiences, excursions and cultures.

There are three regions of the Caribbean: Western, Eastern and Southern. While some activities overlap in all three, each one embodies its own personality and provides visitors something truly special.

So what separates all the Caribbean destinations? And which islands are associated with which region? If you're a little fuzzy on your Caribbean destinations, we offer an introduction to the three major regions of the Caribbean, plus the activities and ambience each affords while on a cruise.

And if you want more Caribbean cruising tips, check out our best Caribbean cruise content, itineraries, reviews and more .

Western Caribbean Destinations: Cozumel, Belize and Beyond

The Western Caribbean consists of destinations due south of Florida, as well as ports in Mexico and Central America. You can visit Mexico ( Cozumel , Costa Maya , Progreso ), Belize , Honduras, Cayman Islands , Jamaica and Cuba .

"Adventure" is the first thing that comes to mind when considering a Western Caribbean cruise . Abundant with water sports (fishing, clear kayaking and some of the best scuba diving in the Caribbean ), hiking excursions and underwater adventures, the Western Caribbean is a good fit for high-energy cruisers seeking an adrenaline rush or a new cultural experience.

The Caribbean destinations in this region are also ideal for low-key cocktails on the islands' white-sand beaches.

Western Caribbean Cruises: Excursions and Activities

Aside from water sports, Western Caribbean excursions are well-organized and include visits to Mayan ruins, explorations of underwater shipwrecks and zip-lining adventures through the rainforests of Central America.

Other activities include diving with sharks in Belize's Shark Ray Alley, scaling Dunn's River Falls in Jamaica and swimming with stingrays in Stingray City Sandbar on Grand Cayman.

Western Caribbean Cruise Itineraries

Western Caribbean itineraries depart from Miami and Fort Lauderdale , as well as Galveston , New Orleans and other East Coast and Florida ports. Some Florida departures add a stop in Key West , the southernmost tip of Florida, to the lineup.

Some cruise lines also supplement itineraries with a quick visit to their private islands, such as Royal Caribbean 's Labadee in Haiti and Norwegian Cruise Line 's Harvest Caye .

Eastern Caribbean Destinations: The U.S. Virgin Islands, British Virgin Islands and More

The Eastern Caribbean encompasses the U.S. Virgin Islands ( St. Thomas , St. John , St. Croix ), British Virgin Islands ( Tortola , Jost Van Dyke , Virgin Gorda ), French West Indies ( St. Maarten and St. Martin ) and the Dominican Republic .

The "no worries" vibe of the Eastern Caribbean attracts laid-back cruisers looking for a low-impact getaway. The highly westernized region is not quite as culturally different as its Western and Southern counterparts, and offers a wide array of activities, from sightseeing to scuba diving.

Eastern Caribbean Cruises: Excursions and Activities

The Eastern Caribbean is most notable for its duty-free shopping, which is among the best in the Caribbean, and its pristine sandy shorelines. In addition to the best Caribbean beaches, the region offers spectacular surfing (particularly in Puerto Rico ), a bustling nightlife scene and several modern casinos.

Another main attraction is Old San Juan, where visitors can tour the city's historic sites or opt for a day of shopping. Like all other Caribbean regions, Eastern Caribbean excursions include water sports, like scuba diving and snorkeling, hiking excursions and zip-lining.

Eastern Caribbean Cruise Itineraries

Most Eastern Caribbean cruises depart from Florida ports, including Fort Lauderdale, Miami and Cape Canaveral. Several others, however, sail out of New York , Baltimore and Cape Liberty .

While The Bahamas is not considered part of the Caribbean, ports like Nassau and Freeport are often added to Eastern Caribbean itineraries. These islands, which are among the most developed for tourism, also offer a wide variety of water sports, land tours and duty-free shopping. Port stops in Grand Turk (technically in the Atlantic) and Jamaica are also common.

Many other itineraries include stops at the cruise lines' private islands, such as Labadee and CocoCay (Royal Caribbean), Half Moon Cay ( Holland America ), Great Stirrup Cay (Norwegian Cruise Line), Castaway Cay ( Disney Cruise Line ) and Princess Cays ( Princess Cruises ).

Southern Caribbean Destinations: French West Indies, Aruba, Curacao and Beyond

The Southern Caribbean includes the French West Indies ( Martinique , Guadaloupe and St. Barts ), St. Lucia , Dominica , Grenada , Aruba , Bonaire , Curacao , Barbados , Antigua and St. Kitts /Nevis.

Southern Caribbean cruises may be a bit less popular offerings by cruise lines, but the Southern Caribbean is likely the most diverse of all three regions. Known for its exotic scenery and towering volcanoes, the Southern Caribbean flaunts a diverse topography that ranges from lush, tropical rainforests to dry desert landscapes, and is home to some of the most spectacular species of wildlife.

Southern Caribbean islands are ideal for vacationers looking to escape mobbed beach scenes and typical tourist attractions. The region offers explorations of the famous Hato Caves, tours of the world's oldest rum distillery and a look into the region's rich British military history.

Southern Caribbean Cruises: Excursions and Activities

The Southern Caribbean suits every taste, with everything from low-energy beach days to high-impact rappelling. The array of activities is reflected by the vast landscape of the Southern Caribbean: dense rainforests of Dominica, seaside villages of Barbados, beaches of Aruba flecked with bent divi-divi trees and crystal-clear waters of St. Thomas.

Other popular Southern Caribbean cruise activities include swimming, snorkeling, sightseeing and shopping.

Attractions include the Dutch-influenced Curacao and the French-influenced islands of St. Barth's and Martinique, which all offer dozens of sidewalk cafes, trendy boutiques and gourmet restaurants.

Southern Caribbean Cruise Itineraries

Southern Caribbean itineraries generally exceed one week, and sail roundtrip from San Juan and Barbados. However, other departure ports include Fort Lauderdale, Miami, Galveston and New York. Some Southern Caribbean cruises also stop in the Eastern Caribbean, the Bahamas and Florida ports, such as Cape Canaveral and Jacksonville , depending on the homeport.

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Hot Topic: Surprise Cruise Reveal Ideas

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.

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.

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.

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

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. 

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.

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. 

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.

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. 

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Caribbean (Southern)

To see discounted cruises in this region, use the Find a Bargain box on the left.

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.

For a list of ports or places you can visit in the Southern Caribbean, click here .

Best cruise destinations for every type of traveler

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Choosing where to cruise is one half of a successful vacation: The right ship plus a carefully selected destination that matches your overall interests typically equals an enjoyable cruise experience.

So, what are the best cruise destinations for every type of traveler?

That depends. With several dozen destination options around the globe to choose from — everything from popular locales you can cruise to from U.S. ports to far-flung regions known to top many bucket lists — it can take a bit of research to find your perfect match.

For more cruise news, reviews and tips, sign up for TPG’s cruise newsletter.

That’s why we’re here. We’ve been around the block (and around the world) when it comes to cruises. We’ve explored the most captivating cities, waded into the surf on world-class beaches, hiked unspoiled landscapes and gazed upon treasured landmarks. So before you book your next cruise, have a look at our picks for the best cruise destinations for every type of traveler.

Best cruise destination for beach lovers: The Caribbean

When it comes to optimal sun, sand and surf, it’s tough to beat the Caribbean. It also helps that every major cruise line offers multiple itineraries in the region, most from November to March but quite a few year-round. You can cruise to the Caribbean from more than 10 U.S. cities — everywhere from New York to Galveston, Texas — although the majority of Caribbean cruises sail from Florida ports: Miami, Fort Lauderdale, Port Canaveral and Tampa.

Which Caribbean islands have the best beaches? It’s impossible to choose since every island is fringed by talcum-soft sand and warm turquoise water and is home to lively beach bars offering music and tropical cocktails that will make your day in the sun all the more fun.

Cruises here are offered in three regions. Eastern Caribbean cruises visit ports including St. Thomas, St. Maarten, Puerto Rico, the Dominican Republic and the British Virgin Islands. The Western Caribbean itineraries feature calls on Jamaica, Grand Cayman, Roatan, Cozumel and Costa Maya, Mexico. The Southern Caribbean voyages sail to islands such as St. Lucia, Barbados, Aruba, Bonaire and Curacao.

Many cruise lines also call on Nassau in the Bahamas and their own Bahamian private islands , where beach days are sublime. Some longer itineraries (10 nights or more) also combine Eastern and Southern ports of call with less-visited islands such as St. Kitts and Antigua.

Related: The best Caribbean cruises for every type of traveler

Best cruise destination for history buffs: The Eastern Mediterranean

The Eastern Mediterranean, where it meets the Adriatic, Ionian and Aegean seas, is home to century-spanning sites sure to tempt any history buff. Cruises in this region typically call on Turkey, Greece, Montenegro, Croatia and Italy, while some also visit Israel, Jordan and Cyprus. More than any other region, the Eastern Mediterranean offers cruisers the chance to step back in time simply by stepping off their ship.

For example, cruises often begin in Istanbul, home to the 6th-century Hagia Sophia and the elaborate Blue Mosque, constructed between 1609 and 1616. Ports of call also in Turkey may include Kusadasi for the nearby Roman city of Ephesus and its wondrous Library of Celsus. In Greece, medieval and Venetian architecture are thoughtfully preserved in the islands of Rhodes and Corfu, respectively. Your cruise might end in Athens, site of the 2,500-year-old Parthenon and its antiquities.

Or you can cruise from Venice, with its splendid 11th-century Basilica of San Marco and palazzo-lined canals, across the Adriatic to the coast of Croatia. These sailings typically call on Split (home to Diocletian’s Palace, which dates to the 4 th century) and Dubrovnik (with its postcard-perfect 13th-century walled Old Town), as well as the island nation of Malta (realm of the Knights of St. John).

If Israel and Jordan are must-visits, look for a cruise with Holy Lands in its title. These sailings often depart from Athens and also call on several Greek islands and Cyprus.

Related: Best Mediterranean cruises for every type of traveler

Best cruise destination for outdoor adventurers: Alaska

The 49 th State is a vast 665,400-square-mile wilderness. It offers an incredible 46,600 miles of coastline (longer than the shorelines of all the lower 48 states combined) and a unique and plentiful mix of wildlife. An Alaska cruise offers true outdoor adventure.

In port, choose from hiking amid boreal forests to sea kayaking among seals and sea otters. You can fish for salmon (and have it shipped home), zipline above a landscape inhabited by black bears and gaze down at massive glaciers from a seaplane or helicopter (and even land atop one).

Have a less-adventurous travel companion? They can pan for gold, ride a vintage train and dog-sled (and afterward cuddle adorable husky pups).

The Pacific Northwest port cities of Seattle, Washington and Vancouver, British Columbia are the gateways for the majority of Alaska cruises. Inside Passage itineraries are the most popular and cruise lines offer these sailings from May through September .

On a round-trip cruise, you’ll call on Juneau, Alaska’s remote capital that’s reachable solely by sea or air and offers access to Mendenhall Glacier. Other top ports are Ketchikan, known for wet-suit snorkeling and floatplane flightseeing; Skagway, where you can combine an invigorating hike and a relaxing river float trip; and Icy Strait Point, a top spot for sea kayaking and whale watching.

A highlight for many passengers is scenic cruising in Glacier Bay National Park . This 3.3-million-acre national park is home to more than 1,000 glaciers, including the accessible and photogenic Margerie Glacier, which extends 21 miles from the mountains to the bay. Have your camera ready to capture the action as huge chunks of Windex-blue ice calve off of its 250-foot-high face with a thunderous crack and crash into the frigid waters below.

Related: The best Alaska cruise for every type of traveler

Best cruise destination for honeymooners: French Polynesia

Lagoons that shimmer in a mosaic of the purest blues imaginable, palm-fringed islets comprised solely of pristine white sand, and Polynesian culture steeped in heart-pounding song and dance make a cruise through the islands of French Polynesia ideal for honeymooners. Tahiti and the other Society Islands — Moorea, Bora Bora, Raiatea, Huahine and Taha’a — offer a setting for celebratory romance that’s scenic and sensual.

Most cruises through the Societies are seven or 10 nights, with mornings spent exploring an island’s lush landscape by 4×4, visiting vanilla or black pearl farms or venturing into the lagoon for snorkeling excursions or shark and stingray feedings. In the afternoon, laze by your ship’s pool or give stand-up paddleboarding a try. Diving here is also superb, so couples who are certified can experience the thrill of underwater life beyond the lagoon.

On a cultural level, couples cruising through the islands of Tahiti can try new foods such as breadfruit and poisson cru (raw fish marinated in coconut and lime juice), melt into a state of blissful relaxation with traditional taurumi massage, and experience the soul-stirring drumbeats of Polynesian dance. Be sure to pluck a plumeria blossom and place it behind your left ear — to signify that your heart is spoken for.

Related: 7 things to do in French Polynesia that don’t involve romance or over-water bungalows

Best cruise destination for city explorers: The Baltic

The sophisticated capitals of Scandinavia — Copenhagen, Stockholm, Oslo and Helsinki — plus other coastal cities such as Tallinn, Estonia and Gdansk, Poland, are each compelling in their own right. So, imagine the rush of urban euphoria you’ll feel while exploring all of them on a Baltic (or Northern Europe) cruise from May through September.

While itineraries range from seven to 14 nights and the ports visited vary by cruise line, most sailings call on Copenhagen, Stockholm, Helsinki and Tallinn. The Danish capital is a fascinating blend of imperial palaces, photogenic landmarks (including the vibrant waterfront of Nyhavn and the Victorian-era Tivoli Gardens) and modern culinary and design innovations.

Equally captivating is Stockholm, where a stroll through Old Town (Gamla Stan) will take you back to medieval times. A visit to the one-of-a-kind Vasa Museum offers a fascinating glimpse at a doomed 17th-century wooden warship, and a few hours in the ABBA Museum will have you humming the band’s hits for hours afterward.

Then there’s Helsinki. Expect to be charmed by this quirky city with its unpronounceable street names, elegant Esplanade and cache of unique churches (among them the red-brick Uspenski Cathedral and the Temppeliaukion Church, aka the Church of the Rock). And Tallinn? The city’s remarkably intact medieval Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site encircled by red-capped storybook-style towers. Easily explored on foot, it’s home to architectural landmarks that include Gothic-spired churches, Hanseatic merchant houses and a Pseudo-Russian cathedral.

Related: Best European cruises: 6 ships that stand out across the pond

Best cruise destination for the culturally curious: Japan

A single-country cruise itinerary gives you a chance to enjoy a deeper dive into local culture. One of the most popular destinations for this type of immersive experience is Japan. As an island nation, it has a wealth of ports that can be explored on 12- to 14-night circle-island sailings offered by both large-ship and small-luxury cruise lines.

From the bright lights and youthful energy of modern Tokyo, an itinerary will visit 10 or so Japanese cities. Your ship will also call on Busan, South Korea as required by maritime regulations.

Kobe is your access point for Kyoto, with its temples and gardens, while Shimizu is your gateway to scenic Mt. Fuji. Visit the moving Peace Memorial Park honoring the tragedy of WWII in Hiroshima and historic Hirosaki Castle in Aomori. In Kanazawa, explore the well-preserved samurai and geisha districts. Don’t miss Sakaiminato, famous for its seafood and the Izumo-taisha Grand Shrine.

Along with enjoying Japan’s top sights on guided excursions, you’ll also have a chance to experience the country’s traditional music and dance, visit museums filled with centuries of art and soak in thermal hot springs. Be sure to sample culinary specialties, from udon noodles and sake to elaborate kaiseki multi-course feasts. Even better — you can do it all while only having to unpack once.

Best cruise destination for nature lovers: Panama Canal & Central America

Yes, the Panama Canal is manmade, but it cuts across 82 miles of Central American jungle on the isthmus of Panama to connect the Atlantic and Pacific oceans. A transit of the circa-1914 original or the 2016 extension takes a single day. The remainder of the cruise will be spent calling on ports in Costa Rica, Guatemala, Colombia (historic coastal Cartagena), Mexico and the Caribbean.

That means there’s plenty of nature to appreciate. Some ships will spend a day in Colon, Panama, which offers access to Chagres National Park and the Gamboa Rainforest Preserve. Both are home to indigenous species such as toucans, coatimundis and monkeys.

During a visit to Puntarenas, Costa Rica, the volcanic landscape and surrounding rainforest and cloud forest offer opportunities for hiking, kayaking and spotting native species such as howler monkeys, sloths and crocodiles. Puerto Quetzal, Guatemala is known for its coffee plantations and access to the historic city of Antigua. The region also offers the chance to hike the Pacaya Volcano or visit the ancient Mayan site of Iximche.

In the Caribbean, some Panama Canal itineraries call on one of the ABC Islands (Aruba, Bonaire or Curacao) while others visit Grand Cayman, where stellar snorkeling and diving (and interaction with the playful residents of Stingray City) are top activities. On Mexico’s Pacific Coast, ports might include Huatulco, offering access to an iguana sanctuary and ecological park, or Puerto Vallarta, where you can enjoy a snorkel trip to Los Arcos de Mismaloya.

Related: The best time to cruise the Panama Canal

Best cruise destination for food and wine aficionados: Western Mediterranean

Italy, France and Spain are all celebrated for their distinctive cuisines and award-winning wines, which makes a Western Mediterranean itinerary perfect for culinary enthusiasts.

The fact that the region’s top cruise ports are the birthplaces of foodie favorites such as paella, pizza, spaghetti alla carbonara and moules-frites makes a cruise here a delicious indulgence. You can eat your fill of local cuisine in places such as Barcelona and Valencia in Spain, Marseille and Saint-Tropez in France, and Livorno (for Florence and Pisa), Rome and Naples in Italy.

Add in the Western Med’s top island ports, and it’s impossible to cruise here without enjoying some of the world’s most memorable foods and flavors. Olives and olive oil are an art form on the Spanish island of Mallorca, while wild boar is a rustic favorite on the French island of Corsica. The Italian island of Sardinia is known for its strong Cannonau red wine, and Sicily is the birthplace of the famous cannoli.

Some cruise lines are especially attuned to offering their guests local culinary experiences. These take the form of shore excursions (cooking classes, market visits and farm and winery tours) and onboard dinner menus that highlight regional specialties and local wines. FYI: Cruise ships also have fully equipped fitness centers where you can work off all the extra calories you’ll consume.

Related: Western Mediterranean vs. Eastern Mediterranean cruises: Which itinerary will I like more? 

Best cruise destination for bucket-listers: Antarctica

When travelers dusted off their bucket list post-pandemic one of the places they most wanted to visit was Antarctica. The seventh continent, a place that belongs to no single nation but hosts research stations from almost 30, has fascinated adventurers for decades. But the swift expansion of luxury expedition cruising over the past five to seven years has made this frozen polar frontier the “It” destination of the 2020s.

What’s the experience like? On an expedition cruise, generally roundtrip from Ushuaia, Argentina, you’ll first have to cross the Drake Passage, a notoriously rough and windy body of water. Safely on the other side, you’ll arrive at landing points in the South Shetland Islands along the Antarctic Peninsula.

Whether viewing regiments of gleaming icebergs from your ship’s deck or photographing parades of waddling penguins against a surreal landscape of ice while ashore, the experience is like no other. Some expedition itineraries also venture farther south to the continent while longer sailings call on South Georgia Island and/or the Falklands.

Antarctica requires two things of visitors. The first is a healthy budget. Expedition cruises generally start at around $12,000 per person, although some major cruise lines offer scenic cruising in Antarctica — with no landings — for under $3,000 per person. The second is a moderate fitness level to be able to venture ashore in Zodiacs and explore the rugged landscape.

The cruise season spans just five months, from mid-November to March, and you’ll want to book far in advance so you have time to prepare.

Related: Best Antarctica cruise ships exploring the White Continent

Best cruise destination for travelers without a passport: Hawaii

If you’re passport-less or have let yours expire, you can still enjoy a tropical island cruise that’s exotic and yet reassuringly familiar. We’re talking Hawaii, where a seven-night inter-island itinerary visiting four islands doesn’t require that you have a passport. These itineraries are offered year-round aboard Norwegian Cruise Line ’s Pride of America.

Since you’ll be cruising in U.S. territory, you don’t have to worry should you need to leave the cruise early and fly back to the states because of illness or a family emergency. This can be a concern for passengers on round-trip, closed-loop sailings from Florida to the Caribbean or Bahamas who board only with a driver’s license and birth certificate.

Beyond the practical, a Hawaii cruise that begins and ends in Oahu and spends two days on each of the other main islands — Maui, Kauai and the Island of Hawaii (aka the Big Island) — offers plenty of time to enjoy the sights and even experience a cultural evening activity, such as a sunset luau. You’ll also avoid all the inter-island flights required for hotel stays.

Highlights of a Hawaii itinerary include a pre- or post-cruise visit to the historic sites of Pearl Harbor and perhaps even an overnight stay in Waikiki. On Maui, you can enjoy active thrills, such as biking down a switchback road on the volcanic slopes of Haleakala or snorkeling the offshore Molokini Crater.

Kauai is the place to admire the 50 th State’s lushest rainforests and to cruise past the scenic cliffs of the Napali Coast. And with two ports of call on the Island of Hawaii, you’ll enjoy the waterfalls of Hilo (along with access to Volcanoes National Park) and the sunny Kona coast, where snorkel trips and coffee farm visits are popular.

Related: The best Hawaii cruises for every type of traveler

Planning a cruise? Start with these stories:

• The 5 best cabin locations on any cruise ship
• The 8 worst cabin locations on any cruise ship
• 21 tips and tricks that will make your cruise go smoothly
• 15 ways cruisers waste money
• What to pack for your first cruise
• How to get a deal on a cruise

SPONSORED:  With states reopening, enjoying a meal from a restaurant no longer just means curbside pickup.

And when you do spend on dining, you should use a credit card that will maximize your rewards and potentially even score special discounts. Thanks to temporary card bonuses and changes due to coronavirus, you may even be able to score a meal at your favorite restaurant for free. 

These are the best credit cards for dining out, taking out, and ordering in to maximize every meal purchase.

Editorial Disclaimer: Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, airlines or hotel chain, and have not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of these entities.

Why cruise lines need their private islands more than ever

• Cruise lines spend big on private islands and destinations exclusive to their guests.
• These private Caribbean properties are money trees for companies like Carnival and Royal Caribbean.
• In-house destinations are becoming increasingly necessary amid rising fuel costs and port restrictions.

About 140 miles east of Miami, Royal Caribbean's private Bahamas island, Perfect Day at CocoCay , receives thousands of eager families virtually every day of the year.

The cruise line and many of its competitors don't just own ships — they also have land-based portfolios. Throughout the Caribbean and in countries like Honduras and Belize, practically every major cruise company has snatched up and developed beachfront properties to make exclusive to their guests.

To travelers, these secluded ports of call are convenient, safe, and cherished: "The vast majority of people love the islands," Patrick Scholes, the managing director of lodging and leisure-equity research at Truist Securities, told Business Insider.

To cruise lines, they're cash cows. And now, maybe more than ever before, a necessity as operators seek out profits while battling rising operating costs and ever-restrictive ports.

The industry is cruising into a private island renaissance

Cruise lines like Princess, Holland America, and MSC collectively own 16 ports and private destinations in the Caribbean (including properties that are still under development).

Many of them, like CocoCay, are hits.

Michael Bayley, president and CEO of Royal Caribbean International, told analysts in 2023 that the private island had seen robust demand, including from repeat travelers. So much so that the financial returns on the $350 million investment, launched in 2019, have been "exceptionally high and significantly above its target," Naftali Holtz, CFO of Royal Caribbean Group, said a few months prior.

Given travelers' appetite, Royal Caribbean has continued to expand its splashy Bahamas getaway.

Its most recent addition, the adult-only Hideaway Beach , opened in January, adding to CocoCay's 14-slide waterpark, upscale beach club, massive pool, and umbrella-lined beaches.

But it's not done: The cruise giant plans to open its next development, a 17-acre private beach club on Nassau, Bahamas' Paradise Island, in 2025.

Carnival Corp is also updating its popular private island, Half Moon Cay, with an additional berth to accommodate its largest ships, increasing the destination's guest capacity.

Like its competitor, Carnival has more plans to expand its real estate footprint — this time with Celebration Key, a $500 million exclusive resort on Grand Bahama Island, set to open in 2025.

The vacation-at-sea industry's land-based conquest could continue to grow: Given their benefits, Scholes said he wouldn't be surprised if Royal Caribbean were to announce plans to build another private island in the next five years.

Related stories

These are the three reasons cruise-run private destinations have become so important.

1. Fuel is expensive

Fuel is one of the cruise industry's biggest expenses . Fortunately, most Caribbean-based private destinations are just a night's sailing from Florida's major cruise ports.

Amid rising fuel costs, it's easy to see why cruise lines would want to plan more itineraries around these nearby stops.

In September 2023, Josh Weinstein — president, CEO, and chief climate officer of Carnival Corp — called the forthcoming Celebration Key a "win-win-win for the environment, our guests, and the people of the Bahamas," citing the property's proximity to its Florida homeports and the subsequent reduced fuel expenditure.

It could certainly be a "win" for travelers: In the same call, he told analysts that a guest-fronted fuel surcharge is "certainly not off the table."

2. Private destinations keep profits in-house

Before its debut, pre-cruise bookings for CocoCay's Hideaway Beach surpassed the company's expectations, Jason Liberty, president and CEO of Royal Caribbean Group, told analysts in October 2023.

Admission costs up to $89 per person during peak season. Nearby, entry to the more exclusive beach club could be shy of triple that cost .

Even the otherwise complimentary parts of the island have splurge-enticing options like rentable cabanas and snorkeling gear.

Travelers content with a basic beach chair and the lunch buffet don't have to ball out on these up-charged luxuries. But they sure are hard to resist, especially as cruisers have become eager to splurge on their vacations.

For families, skipping CocoCay's waterpark could be as sacrilegious as skipping Disney World during an Orlando vacation, Scholes said. A day pass to Thrill Waterpark can exceed $100 per person — that's more than $400 down the drain for a family of four in one afternoon.

These destinations have plenty of opportunities for guests to spend big. And because there's no need to rely on other excursion operators, they allow cruise lines to keep more profits in-house.

3. Some popular ports are saying "no" to giant cruise ships

The world's largest cruise ship, Royal Caribbean's Icon of the Seas , can carry 7,600 guests and 2,350 crew.

This sudden influx of travelers could overwhelm smaller destinations and their locals, like the just over 25,000 residents of Santorini, Greece, and 25,600 of Key West, Florida.

With concerns like pollution and over-tourism, it's no wonder the popular Greek island has a daily cap on cruise visitors, while its Florida counterpart has faced a fraught battle to restrict cruise tourism .

They're not alone. Cities across the US and Europe have increasingly limited travelers coming by sea — either through size restrictions, daily visitor limits, or complete bans. This includes desirable ports like Juneau, Alaska, French Polynesia, and Venice, Italy.

Ironically, at the same time, mass-market cruise lines have continued to grow the size of their vessels — so much so that several of these new mega-ships are now simply too big to fit into some ports.

So, if you can't beat the ports, why not join them? Especially if you can outfit your private properties with dozens of profit-growing amenities.

Watch: Inside the world's biggest cruise ship that just set sail

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From FORT LAUDERDALE, FLORIDA - onboard CELEBRITY REFLECTION

Vacations should be effortless from the start. That’s why every Celebrity cruise includes drinks, Wi-Fi, and service charges—always.* It’s that simple.

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

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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.

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Fort Lauderdale, Florida

Mon, Sep 29, 2025

Departs: 4:00PM

At Sea - Cruising

Tue, Sep 30, 2025

Wed, Oct 1, 2025

Tortola, BVI

Thu, Oct 2, 2025

Docked: 8:00AM to 6:00PM

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Fri, Oct 3, 2025

Docked: 7:00AM to 4:00PM

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Sat, Oct 4, 2025

Docked: 9:30AM to 5:00PM

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Sun, Oct 5, 2025

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Mon, Oct 6, 2025

Docked: 8:00AM to 5:00PM

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Wed, Oct 8, 2025

Thu, Oct 9, 2025

Arrival: 7:00AM

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About This Ship

Celebrity Reflection Ship

Aerial View of Reflection

Celebrity Reflection

On Celebrity Reflection® enjoy endless ocean views, catch some sun, and play your favorite outdoor games on a ½ acre of real grass at The Lawn Club. Then, cap off the outdoor fun with delicious grilling specialties at Lawn Club Grill. You can also take your palate to new heights with exciting culinary experiences by our Global Culinary Ambassador, Chef Daniel Boulud. Shop in luxury boutiques. And, invigorate your senses at The Spa. From unforgettable spaces to world-class amenities, and distinct features, you’ll rest and recharge the moment you step aboard.

Onboard Features

Opus Restaurant

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.

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.

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A unique music venue with spectacular ocean views. The perfect daytime spot to gaze over the sea with a cocktail in hand and dance the night away after the sun sets.

The Retreat is an unparalleled vacation experience that includes every stunning suite, a private restaurant, and an exclusive lounge 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 Persian Garden.

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.

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

Camp at Sea

S.T.E.M. activities are powered by experiments, demonstrations and everyday science that will amaze young minds.

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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.

Shops on Reflection

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

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When you visit the Art Gallery, you'll be surrounded with one of the world's largest permanent collections of contemporary art, accompanied by a complete art program.

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Built around the ship’s top deck, the jogging track let’s you take in breathless ocean views while you workout. It’s so mesmerizing, you’ll forget you’re breaking a sweat.

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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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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.

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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: All Included applies to inside, ocean view, veranda, Concierge Class, or AquaClass® stateroom who book with the All Included Rate (“Eligible Bookings”). All guests in an Eligible Booking will receive a Classic Drink Package, Gratuities (“Service Fees”) Included, and an unlimited Basic Wi-Fi Package. All guests with an Eligible Booking in The Retreat will receive a Premium Drink Package, Service Fees Included, OBC and an unlimited Premium Wi-Fi Package. OBC amount varies by length of sailing and will be credited to guests’ stateroom folios. OBC has no cash value, is applicable to cruise only, non-transferable, not redeemable for cash, and will expire if not used by 10:00 PM on the final night of the cruise. Guests with Wi-Fi Packages will receive instructions for Wi-Fi access in their staterooms on the first day of the cruise. All guests in the same stateroom must choose the same rate.

Imagery and messaging may not accurately reflect onboard and destination experiences, offerings, features, or itineraries. These may not be available during your voyage, may vary by ship and destination, and may be subject to change without notice.

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The 8 best alaska cruises for families.

Plan your next family vacation to explore the boundless beauty of the 49th state.

The Best Alaska Cruises for Families

Courtesy of Princess Cruises

A cruise to Alaska is a once-in-a-lifetime family or multigenerational vacation. With unique opportunities for wildlife viewing and outdoor adventures that you won't find anywhere else in the world – not to mention scenic cruising days on the ship to spend time together – this special experience will stay with you forever.

For an extended vacation in the 49th state, consider booking a cruisetour. This combined cruise and pre- or post-cruise land tour option is offered by many of the larger cruise lines. The tours visit some of the top attractions in the state , such as Denali National Park and Preserve, and often include picturesque rides into Alaska's remote wilderness aboard the Alaska Railroad. Some tours also head north to Fairbanks and visit Kenai Fjords National Park or Wrangell-St. Elias National Park (or both, in some cases). You can choose between fully escorted adventures or laid-back options to explore on your own, depending on what works best for your family.

Ready to book your Alaska adventure? These eight cruise lines offer excellent family-friendly excursions ashore , plus plenty of onboard activities to keep both kids and parents entertained during days at sea.

Find your perfect cruise

Princess Cruises: 7-Day Voyage of the Glaciers with Glacier Bay

Departure city: Vancouver, British Columbia

The 2024 cruise season brings Princess' 55th-anniversary sailing to The Great Land, and the line is offering more than 150 Alaska voyages between April and September. The popular Voyage of the Glaciers with Glacier Bay itinerary northbound from Vancouver to Anchorage (Whittier), Alaska , is available on dozens of dates this season on Grand Princess , Royal Princess or Sapphire Princess . The sailing includes stops in the ports of Ketchikan, Juneau and Skagway, as well as scenic cruising in beautiful Glacier Bay National Park & Preserve and College Fjord in Alaska. If you prefer a smaller ship, choose Grand Princess or Sapphire Princess, which hold 2,610 and 2,680 passengers (double occupancy), respectively. Meanwhile, Royal Princess accommodates 3,560 guests at double occupancy.

The Princess Cruises North to Alaska program features immersive, family-friendly opportunities to learn about the history and traditions of the 49th state. Guests can sample fresh local seafood and meet famous Alaskans such as Libby Riddles, the first woman to win the 1,100-mile Iditarod dog race. In Skagway, families can meet some of the newest sled dogs and their handlers during Puppies in the Piazza on the ship. Younger cruisers and teens can participate in the Alaska Explorers Youth Program in partnership with Glacier Bay National Park and the Discovery Channel, which includes activities like the "Deadliest Catch" Crab Sort Challenge.

The North to Alaska program also partners with Discovery and Animal Planet to feature onboard exhibits about Alaska, as well as curated excursions like the White Pass Rail Bennett Lake & Yukon Adventure in Skagway, which was created by a train historian. Back on the ship, kids and teens can hang out with other young cruisers their age at Camp Discovery's Treehouse (ages 3 to 7), Lodge (8 to 12) or Beach House (13 to 17). In addition, be sure to keep an eye out for Princess Cruises' Alaska mascot: Stanley the Bear. You might even find him during story time at the kids clubs wearing a captain's uniform or destination-themed costumes, such as lumberjack gear in Ketchikan.

Norwegian Cruise Line: Alaska – Dawes Glacier, Juneau & Ketchikan

Courtesy of Norwegian Cruise Line

Departure city: Seattle, Washington

This seven-day round-trip voyage from Seattle is available on Norwegian Bliss from April to September during the line's 2024 Alaska season. The sailing includes the ports of Sitka, Juneau , Icy Strait Point and Ketchikan (Ward Cove), plus scenic cruising in Endicott Arm and Dawes Glacier in Alaska. There's also an evening stop in Victoria, British Columbia , before disembarking in Seattle. Norwegian Bliss can carry 4,004 passengers at double occupancy and 4,266 passengers at maximum capacity.

The entire family will enjoy excursions like the Whale Watching & Bear Search tour in Icy Strait Point, while thrill-seekers of all ages will want to book an adrenaline-pumping ride down the mountain on the massive ZipRider zip line. In Ketchikan, take a hike through Tongass National Forest, the largest national forest in the U.S., where you might catch glimpses of wildlife like black bears or bald eagles. You can also head offshore from Ketchikan aboard the Aleutian Ballad, the famed ship from Discovery Channel's "Deadliest Catch," to pick up the day's bounty of king crab and search for marine wildlife along Alaska's Inside Passage.

Plenty of family activities and entertainment options are offered on this Norwegian Cruise Line ship, including the Bliss Speedway, a two-level racetrack at sea; laser tag; mini-golf; an interactive aqua park with waterslides that zip above the side of the ship; a video arcade; and live entertainment. You'll also find kids clubs designed for younger children and teens , as well as adults-only escapes like Vibe Beach Club and Spice H2O. When it comes to dining, there's no shortage of casual fare for hungry kids at venues like the Garden Café buffet, American Diner and The Local Bar & Grill.

Disney Cruise Line: 7-Night Alaskan Cruise from Vancouver

Matt Stroshane | Courtesy of Disney Cruise Line

This seven-night itinerary aboard Disney Wonder departs round-trip from Vancouver on several voyages throughout the 2024 Alaska season, which runs from May to September. The weeklong Disney Cruise Line sailing includes glacier viewing along the Stikine Icecap and stops in Skagway, Juneau and Ketchikan. Plus, you'll enjoy plenty of Disney fun on board, with character meet-and-greets, Broadway-quality shows, and entertaining activities and venues for kids and adults alike.

Many of the ship's nautical-themed staterooms are designed with families in mind and feature a "split bath" concept and extra under-bed storage for suitcases. Disney Wonder can hold 1,750 passengers at double occupancy and 2,700 passengers at maximum capacity. The ship's unique rotational dining venues include an "under the sea" adventure at Triton's, a dinner show with Disney characters at Animator's Palate and Southern specialties with jazz music at Tiana's Place. For a night out sans kids, adults can savor a quiet evening with northern Italian cuisine at Palo or nosh on casual pub fare at Crown & Fin Pub. Younger sailors will find age-appropriate spaces at Disney's Oceaneer Club and Lab, tween venue Edge, and teen club Vibe.

Disney's excursions also offer family fun ashore – especially in Skagway. Try panning for gold with Disney characters like Donald Duck, then feast on baked Alaska salmon at Liarsville Gold Rush Trail Camp. You can also take an extended six-hour tour by boat into Alaska's deepest fjord, Lynn Canal, then hike through the rainforest to reach your canoe for a wilderness safari at Glacier Point. For a bucket list splurge, reserve a spot on the helicopter flightseeing tour that includes dog mushing on the Denver Glacier with a team of Alaska sled dogs.

Holland America Line: 7-Day Alaska Inside Passage

Courtesy of Holland America Line

Holland America's Koningsdam will sail the line's seven-day Inside Passage itinerary more than 20 times between April and September in 2024. This round-trip voyage embarks in Vancouver and includes multiple days of scenic cruising. You'll sail through the Inside Passage for two days; through Tracy Arm Inlet, where you can disembark for a shore excursion; and through Glacier Bay, where the Junior Ranger Program is a highlight for kids. The ports of call on this itinerary are Juneau, Skagway and Ketchikan in Alaska.

Koningsdam features dedicated family staterooms with beds for up to five guests, two bathrooms and extra closet space. The ship carries 2,650 guests at double occupancy and 3,194 passengers at maximum capacity. A wildlife expert on the ship helps guests spot Alaska's incredible marine and land animals through announcements and during daily programs. Keep an eye out for humpback whales, orcas, sea otters, moose, brown bears and other wildlife. While in the Tracy Arm Wilderness Area, you'll want to take the Tracy Arm Fjord & Glacier Explorer excursion to explore glacier-covered mountains, jagged cliffs and the largest temperate rainforest in the U.S. surrounding the fjord. On a high-speed catamaran, you'll get up-close views of the Sawyer Glaciers and have potential sightings of harbor seals, bears, mountain goats and more.

Back on board, Holland America Line 's kids club offers supervised, age-appropriate activities for young cruisers ages 3 to 17 – including children who may need certain accommodations. You'll also find plenty of family-friendly options for dining on Koningsdam, including Lido Market, New York Pizza and the poolside Dive In grill. During the cruise, look for themed evenings in the Lido Market like salmon bakes or seafood boil pop-up dinners, which are in line with Holland America's commitment to serving certified sustainable and traceable Alaska seafood. An Alaska brunch is also offered once during the voyage in the main dining room; you'll enjoy dishes highlighting ingredients from Alaska and the Pacific Northwest.

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Travel tips, vacation ideas and more to make your next vacation stellar.

Royal Caribbean International: 7 Night Alaska Adventure Cruise

Courtesy of Royal Caribbean International

Hop aboard Royal Caribbean's Quantum of the Seas for the seven-night Alaska Adventure Cruise, sailing round-trip from Seattle . This itinerary is available on several dates between May and August 2024 and features stops in the towns of Ketchikan, Sitka and Juneau, plus scenic cruising in Endicott Arm and Dawes Glacier in Alaska. There's also an afternoon call in the Canadian city of Victoria. While there, book an off-roading excursion through the coastal rainforest that includes a zip line adventure. Or, take a self-guided tour through Victoria's famed Butchart Gardens and the tropical Butterfly Gardens filled with wildlife.

Quantum of the Seas – which holds 4,180 passengers at double occupancy and 4,905 passengers at maximum capacity – is one of the two larger Royal Caribbean ships sailing in Alaska in 2024 (Ovation of the Seas is the other). As such, it offers abundant activities and entertainment for families at sea. On board, guests can experience Ripcord by iFly (the only skydiving simulator at sea) and take in snow-capped mountain views from the FlowRider surf simulator or atop the ship's rock climbing wall. Other onboard activities include bumper cars, an escape room, an arcade, pickleball and The Silent Party (a dance party where everyone wears headphones).

At mealtime, kids will have plenty of choices for casual and quick bites, from carefully crafted hot dogs at the Dog House and specialty pies at Sorrento's Pizza to around-the-clock snacks at Café Promenade and grab-and-go fare at The Café@Two70. When the little ones want to play or chill out with kids their age, Adventure Ocean offers activities for children 3 to 12 years old. Meanwhile, teens can meet other 13- to 17-year-olds at the Hideout Hangout.

Carnival Cruise Line: 7-Day Alaska from Seattle, WA

Courtesy of Carnival Cruise Line

Departure city: Juneau, Alaska

Carnival's 2024 Alaska season runs from May to September, with the 7-Day Alaska from Seattle itinerary available every month during that time. The round-trip sailing aboard Carnival Luminosa stops in Juneau, Skagway and Ketchikan, Alaska, as well as Victoria, British Columbia. You'll enjoy scenic cruising in Victoria and through Tracy Arm Fjord. You'll also have one "fun day at sea" to check out the activities and entertainment on the ship, which offers a double occupancy capacity of 2,260 passengers and a maximum capacity of 2,826 passengers.

Younger sailors ages 2 to 11 can join in on ocean-themed games, songs and programming at Camp Ocean, while tweens and teens (ages 12 to 17) can participate in destination-focused activities at See the World. Club 02 is a designated space for guests ages 15 to 17 to watch movies, play sports and video games, and more. Families can enjoy Dive-In Movies together at Carnival Seaside Theater and watch live musical productions at Playlist Productions. When it comes to dining on Carnival , families will have a choice of several casual restaurants to satisfy finicky eaters, including Pizzeria del Capitano, The Carnival Deli, Lido Marketplace and Swirls for soft serve ice cream. For a special night out, make reservations at the Steakhouse, which costs extra but offers reduced prices for children 11 and younger.

When going ashore, Juneau offers many family-friendly excursions – some of which you may not have the chance to experience anywhere else in the world. The Taku Lodge Feast & 5-Glacier Seaplane Discovery takes guests airborne by bush plane over the five glaciers in the Juneau Icefield. After the ride, you'll land in the Taku River at the historic Taku Lodge, which sits across from Juneau's largest glacier, the Taku Glacier. At the lodge, you'll feast on a bountiful meal featuring homemade side dishes and one of the best-known local seafood specialties, Alaska king salmon.

Celebrity Cruises: 7 Nights Alaska Hubbard Glacier

Courtesy of Celebrity Cruises

Celebrity's seven-night Alaska Hubbard Glacier itinerary is available on nine voyages between May and September 2024. The Celebrity Solstice (which holds 2,852 guests at double occupancy) sails round-trip from Vancouver and stops in the ports of Icy Strait Point, Juneau and Ketchikan in Alaska. You'll have two days of scenic cruising in the Inside Passage and around Hubbard Glacier. While in Icy Strait Point, book a guided nature walk excursion along the "Trail of the Bears" in the bush country of the Spasski River Valley. During your search for Alaska's coastal brown bears, you'll also learn about the Tlingit culture and community in Hoonah, and perhaps even see Sitka black-tailed deer and bald eagles.

Back on the ship, Celebrity's Camp at Sea program entertains children, tweens and teens ages 3 to 17 with four different age-appropriate programs: Shipmates (ages 3 to 5), Cadets (ages 6 to 9), Captains (ages 10 to 12) and Teens (ages 13 to 17). The customizable activities change every cruise and are based on the interests of the participants. Celebrity also offers autism-friendly activities and services for families on board.

When it comes to dining options on the ship, families will find kid-friendly selections on the in-room dining menu and at the main restaurant. For quick casual fare, head to the buffet-style Oceanview Café or to the Mast Grill for burgers and other grab-and-go bites. If you want healthier dishes, the Spa Café offers homemade energy bars, acai bowls, turkey wraps and other light choices.

UnCruise Adventures: Glacier Bay Adventure Cruise

Courtesy of UnCruise Adventures

If you prefer a small-ship cruise experience without the bells and whistles of some larger vessels, UnCruise offers adventure-style cruises to Alaska on its fleet of safari- and expedition-style ships. With these intimate cruises, you and the kids (ages 8 and older) can get up close to glaciers, wildlife and Alaska's vast wilderness directly from the ship via Zodiacs and kayaks. You may even see wildlife from a short distance away along the shoreline, as UnCruise vessels are able to sail into smaller waterways that are inaccessible to larger ships.

The line's Glacier Bay Adventure Cruise features two full days in pristine Glacier Bay National Park & Preserve aboard the Wilderness Discoverer, which holds a maximum of 76 passengers. Here, guests can hike along remote coastlines amid old-growth forests, view sea life up close and go birding at South Marble Island. You'll also have the opportunity to see several tidewater glaciers, go kayaking in the Keku Islands and explore Neka Bay on Chichagof Island. Another highlight is a visit to Glacier Bay Lodge at Bartlett Cove, the only hotel accommodations in the 3.3 million-acre national park. The seven-night itinerary departs round-trip from Juneau and is offered between April and September 2024.

The full itinerary includes stops in Icy Strait and Neka Bay; Glacier Bay National Park & Preserve; Chichagof Island (which boasts the world's largest population of brown bears per square mile); Frederick Sound; and Tracy Arm and the Sawyer Glaciers. During the weeklong cruise, you'll have narration by expert onboard guides and embark on some of the most memorable adventures your kids will ever have in Alaska's remote wilderness.

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Gwen Pratesi has been an avid cruiser since her early 20s. She has sailed on nearly every type of cruise ship, including the newest megaships, traditional masted sailing ships, river ships in Europe and a small luxury expedition vessel in Antarctica. She has cruised to Alaska and visited The Great Land in the summer, fall and winter, and journeyed to remote areas by bush plane above the Arctic Circle. She used her knowledge of Alaska cruises and extensive research to write this article. Pratesi covers the travel and culinary industries for major publications, including U.S. News & World Report.

You might also be interested in:

• Alaska Cruise Packing List: Must-Have Items
• The Best Time to Cruise to Alaska
• The Most Affordable Alaska Cruises
• The Best Alaska Cruise Lines
• The Best Cruise Insurance Plans

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7 Night Southern Caribbean Cruise

Your ship rhapsody of the seas.

SAY YES TO ADVENTURE

Adventure Ocean ®

Rock Climbing Wall

HIGH FLYING FLAVOR TRYING

Chops Grille℠

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Day 1: san juan, puerto rico.

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popular Shore Excursions

Amazing experiences coming soon., day 3: cruising.

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Day 6: Willemstad, Curacao

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CASTILLO DE SAN FELIPE DEL MORRO

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• River Cruising

GCT M/S Tikhi Don - St. Petersburg to Moscow

By usnavyguy , June 24, 2012 in River Cruising

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This is a review of a St. Petersburg to Moscow river cruise from 5/31/2012 - 6/14/2012 with Grand Circle Travel. I'll divide the review into sections starting with the ship so folks can jump to those sections of interest & ignore what isn't pertinent to them. For an excellent discussion on pre-trip planning, visa issues, comments on various cruise lines, this link:

http://boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=1559518

will give you all the details you need. I'll not repeat it here.

So, let's get to the specifics:

Ship : Tikhi Don is owned by Grand Circle Travel (GCT) and is one of two ships, the other being M/V Rossia they operate between Moscow & St. Petersburg. All the cabins are identical: 146 square feet with one window that opens, situated on 3 decks. The only difference is location on the ship. The cabins were clean as were the attached bathrooms. Storage space was adequate for two weeks. There is one 120V and one 220V electrical outlet in the cabin as well as a 115V electrical outlet in the bathroom. I purchased a 4 outlet power strip specifically for this trip to plug in rechargeable digital camera batteries as well as a cell phone. The ship has an elevator near the reception desk forward that services Decks 1, 2, and 3. There is a double stairway in the after end of the ship that runs from the Main Deck to Decks 2, 3, and 4. All other stairways are external and serve all 4 decks. We had about 206 passengers embarked and about 100 staff, so the ratio of staff to cruisers was pretty high. It seems that all river ships operating in Russia carry about 200 or so customers which make them quite a bit larger than the average European waterways river ship. Since they have far fewer bridges to deal with in terms of height, and water depths are somewhat deeper than European rivers, they can and do take advantage of that to leverage a larger number of customers. That doesn't make it bad; it just makes it different. Tikhi Don draws about 9 feet of water which I suspect is about average for a Russian river cruiser. The ship has two bars, one on the 3rd deck forward (Tsar Bar) and one on the 4th deck aft (Presidents Bar). The restaurant is located on the 2nd deck aft and is used for the breakfast buffet and the sit down daily lunches & dinners. One disadvantage to my way of thinking was the sit down lunch. When we've cruised on Viking, they offered a light buffet lunch in the bar/lounge and a sit down lunch in the restaurant. That gave one some options which weren't available with GCT. Again, not necessarily bad; just different. Each cabin is equipped with a flat panel LCD TV with various satellite channels available depending upon the location of the ship at the time. There also were 3 different movie channels showing a different movie each day. Since we didn’t watch TV, I can only surmise it must have worked okay as we did not hear any complaints. While each cabin has individual air conditioning controls, they didn’t appear to function very effectively and the cabin remained around 68-70 degrees Fahrenheit at all times. There is a separate heating unit mounted beneath the window on the outside bulkhead which proved very useful on some of the colder mornings we experienced during the cruise. The cruise covers 829 miles between St. Petersburg and Moscow, and consists of several lakes, rivers and canals including the transit of 16 locks.

Travelers: One significant difference I noted was the average age of the passengers was somewhat older than we had previously experienced with Viking in Europe. I would guess that average age was around mid-70s; some younger, and some a good bit older. We had several veterans of WW2 embarked and I can only hope I'm as spry as they were when I'm that age. They also are very loyal to GCT. Those folks who had previously traveled 3 or more times with GCT or their companion company, Overseas Adventure Travel were identified with a gold name badge. I'd estimate that at least 50% of the embarked travelers fell into this category. This was a very seasoned group of world travelers. Few on the trip were making their 1st river cruise and even fewer were traveling with GCT for the 1st time (we fell into that category). The tours generally involved quite a bit of walking and a not so slow pace, but most everyone managed to keep at it, and few opted out of the walking tours. I'll discuss those in more detail later in this post.

Ship Staff: The staff was quite young (mid to late 20s mostly), inexperienced, but always willing to help. Their command of English was generally very limited although I expect that will improve as the season wears on. Their English was way better than my Cyrillic so they get an A+ for effort. The cruise is managed by a Cruise Director who spoke idiomatic English. The ship's Captain was the most personable Captain I have ever sailed with on a cruise ship. He spoke good English, greeted all the travelers as they debarked for each tour, met each traveler at the gangplank when they returned, and along with the Cruise Director and Hospitality Manager stood on the pier and waved goodbye to every bus that departed. I'm used to the Captain putting in a brief appearance at the Welcome & Farewell Cocktail parties, then disappearing for rest of the cruise. This was a novel & most welcome change.

We were divided into 6 groups of about 32-35 people, assigned a Tour Director who worked exclusively with that group for the entire cruise. Very occasionally for an optional tour, the groups would be combined to keep the numbers about the same, but basically, you functioned within your assigned group. The Tour Directors all had majored in foreign languages at the University and had anywhere from two to as many as eight years with GCT. They all spoke idiomatic English and did a great job of keeping track of their charges. I liken managing U.S. tour groups to herding cats and these folks were always cheerful, ready to answer any question, and resolve any problem. The wait staff in the dining room had limited English, but knew enough to converse with the passengers with regard to the menu & was a hustling young group of Russians. They were extremely pleasant to deal with.

Food on Board: In general the meals were quite good. Breakfast was served buffet style and one always had the opportunity to order an omelet or eggs of any style. There also was a special breakfast order each day. They also included the European breakfast meats and other items common on European river cruise ships. Service was quick and efficient. Restaurant seating included tables for 2, 4, 6 or 10 passengers so there was a wide variety of seating. Lunches & dinners would be best described as Russian modified for American taste. As I remarked previously, all lunches were sit down, formal service with soup, entre (including a vegetarian selection). Salad bar and dessert. Dinners consisted of an appetizer, followed by a soup course, entre (again including a vegetarian choice), and dessert. At dinner, there was always available salmon or chicken breast with a baked potato and steamed vegetables for those who did not fancy the main course. Food was served hot when appropriate and cold when in order. Service was friendly and efficient. Even with 200 people sitting down to eat, there was no sense of “steam table” cooking. With the exception of two meals ashore, all meals were served onboard. In the event of an evening tour such as the Moscow circus or the St. Petersburg ballet, an early dinner was served to those attending the event, followed by a late night heavy snack following return onboard. While I did not eat very many lunches, my wife tried most of them and said the food was very good. We found the dinners to be tasty and a nice introduction to Russian cooking, including the famous Russian stroganoff which is not served over noodles as it is in the U.S., but over spaetzle or mashed potatoes which we were told is common in Russia. Early bird coffee was available from 6:00-7:00AM and also throughout the day at the coffee station on the main deck. Lunch was served at either noon or 1:00PM depending on the tour schedule, with dinner at 7:00PM.

Onboard Activities: There was never a shortage of things to do onboard, but all were voluntary so you could participate in as few or as many as you wished. They featured the usual port talks, introduction to the Russian language, lectures on Russian handicrafts, vodka tastings, blini parties, pelmeni (dumpling) cooking class, and hand painting of Russian Matryoshka (nesting) dolls. We also noted several spontaneous bridge, cribbage, and canasta card games in progress at various times.

There is a large, well stocked gift store on the ship, operated as a separate concession. My wife found the prices for souvenirs of all types were generally better than souvenir shops ashore. They accept major credit cards or roubles. You cannot charge items from the store to your shipboard account.

Tours: There were a limited number of optional (extra cost) tours available. In St. Petersburg, that included:

Rivers & Canals of St. Petersburg

Yusopov Palace

St. Petersburg Ballet

Peterhof Gardens

In Petrozavodosk: Karelian Folk Show

Zlatoust Singers

Jewish Heritage of Moscow

Tretyakov Gallery

You can view the details of these optional tours on the GCT website: http://www.gct.com

under the Russian river cruise itinerary.

All passengers are provided with a pair of head phones & a battery powered receiver to provide the ability to listen to the tour guide while still wandering about the particular venue. The system works perfectly and depending upon location & interference such as walls, floors, and the like is crystal clear up to 100 feet from the tour guide. I have used these systems on other tours and would never consider a tour/cruise that did not employ this technology.

We took the Rivers & Canals of St. Petersburg tour which entailed taking a canal boat up & down the various rivers & canals running through St. Petersburg. It lasted approximately 90 minutes with a well informed local guide who commented on what we were seeing. It was interesting and informative and gives you another whole perspective on St. Petersburg than from a city bus tour.

We also went on the Peterhof gardens tour which unfortunately, did not go as well. The morning tour for that day was Peter & Paul Fortress which was really not that interesting and turned out to be just another church tour. However, because of the distance from where the boat moored to the fortress, then into St. Petersburg for lunch, the morning and part of the afternoon was pretty well shot by the time we departed for Peterhof. Peterhof is a good 45 minute drive from St. Petersburg; so consequently, it was well after 2:00PM when we arrived at the gardens. I’d like to say the local guide tried to cram what could easily have been a 4 hour tour into something less than two hours. So, we consequently were trying to set land speed records for walking tours as she was determined to show us as many of the Peterhof fountains as possible, and there are more than a few. My wife is a bit slow of foot as she has limited walking capacity so she was hard pressed to keep up. I, on the other hand, wanted more time to take pictures of the fountains and didn’t appreciate being rushed from spot to spot. Fortunately, our tour director Alex was particularly solicitous of my wife and made sure we could cut some corners and get ahead of the tour where necessary. Unfortunately, the local tour guide was annoyed when told to slow down and became somewhat hostile. The tour ends at the Peterhof palace which has a very large number of very beautiful fountains, all in gold leaf and is a photographer’s dream. It easily could have been worth an hour or more of picture taking opportunities. While I do understand some folks just want to check the block of having seen it and move on, there are, I think, a larger number of us who don’t expect to see those things again and want to take full advantage of the picture taking opportunities.

St. Petersburg: We spent 4 days in St. Petersburg not counting the day of arrival. The 1st full day, we had a city bus tour which included a stop & tour of St. Isaac’s Cathedral, and an approximately two hour visit to the famed Hermitage Art Museum with an option to stay for an additional 90 minutes, On Day 2, we had Catherine’s Palace & Park Tour, an offsite lunch paid for by GCT followed by the optional Rivers & Canals Tour, Day 4 was the Peter & Paul Fortress, again followed by lunch (this time on your own) followed by the optional Peterhof Gardens tour. On Day 3 of the visit, there were optional tours available of Yusopov Palace and the St. Petersburg ballet (evening). The boat was moored about 1 hour from downtown, depending on traffic, as the city authorities do not allow the riverboats to moor downtown. This caused some angst among those taking their 1st river cruise as they assumed this was standard. Of course, it’s not, and in fact, almost all European river cruises including Paris moor almost in the heart of the city. However, for those with free time and a little bit of adventurism, the subway took you downtown in less than 40 minutes. There is a bus from the head of the pier which costs 30 roubles (in early June 2012, roubles were 32.5 to 1 USD). That dropped you at the nearest metro entrance where 25 roubles and 5 stops later, landed you in the heart of Nevsky Prospekt, St. Petersburg’s equivalent to Times Square in NY or Michigan Avenue in Chicago. The metro is clean, no graffiti in the stations or on the cars, efficiently run and very safe. To return to the ship, just reverse the process. Once downtown, there are many attractions within easy walking distance such as the statue of the Bronze Horseman, a tribute from Catherine the Great to Peter the Great and the Church of our Savior on the Spilled Blood on which site, Tsar Alexander II was murdered by an assassin on 1 March 1881.

This was our 2nd time in St. Petersburg as we were there on an ocean cruise of the Baltics in 2003 when the city celebrated its 300th anniversary. It is to my mind, much more European than Russian with the latest fashions on display, many, many outdoor restaurant cafes and a mostly young, apparently well off population (at least during a business day).

We had previously been to Catherine’s Palace and the Hermitage and enjoyed returning to both places. St. Isaac’s is very impressive, but unfortunately, it is crowded and pickpockets are afoot. Several men & at least 1 woman had wallets stolen in the crowds so for them, not so much fun. Peter and Paul Fortress from a historical perspective is important, but rather unimpressive.

We visited St. Petersburg during the period of the summer referred to as “White Nights” which are quite famous. Sunrise occurs about 4:30AM and sunset at 11:15PM. Since winters are long, cold, and sometimes very harsh, the many hours of sunlight are greatly appreciated and folks go out to stroll, especially on Nevsky Prospekt well into the evening hours enjoying the many parks and recreation areas throughout the city.

Svir Stroi: This is a small village of about 600 people located on the Svir River. They have the requisite souvenir shops, but the highlight of the stop was the visit to the home of a Russian villager. Our opportunity came to visit the wife of a local employee of the hydro electric plant. We visited her home and were served tea & pirozhki’s (Russian tea cakes). With the able help of our tour director, Tanya who translated, the lady explained her daily life in the village and the challenges ordinary people now face compared to the days of the Soviet Union. This is also where we first encountered the fierce Russian mosquitoes or as the tour directors called them, the KGB mosquitoes. They’re big, they bite and they fly around over the 3 months of summer. Mosquito repellent does, however, work when liberally applied.

Petrozavodsk: This port city on Lake Onega which is the second largest lake in Europe, only surpassed by Lake Ladoga, included a bus tour as well as a visit to the memorial to Russian’s Unknown Soldier from World War II, and a tour of the local market. It is the industrial, cultural, and scientific center of the Republic of Karelia. The visit also included an optional tour to a Karelian folk show which we opted not to attend.

Kizhi (Kee-shee) Island: This small island in the center of Lake Onega is home to the oldest known wooden church in Russia, the Church of Transfiguration which features 22 timbered onion shaped domes. The church was assembled without the use of a single metal nail and is currently undergoing extensive renovation. The stop also featured a “Fishing with the Ship’s Captain & Staff” for those who are ardent anglers. Fishing apparently wasn’t so successful as we did not have fish on the menu that evening!

Goritzy/Kirillo-Belozersky Monastery: Goritsky is just another tiny town, but the monastery was built in 1397 and had close connections with Ivan the Terrible. At one time, over 200 monks lived in the monastery, but with the Russian revolution and the harsh suppression of religion in Russia, it deteriorated significantly and now houses only 6 monks. Since the collapse of the Soviet Union, restoration efforts have begun and the museum features an impressive collection of Russian Orthodox icons.

Uglich: The last city we visited prior to Moscow is located on the Volga River. Cruising on the river as you come onto Uglich is very impressive. The Kremlin (or fortress) has no exterior walls so the many colored churches and domes make great picture opportunities. The very large Cathedral of Transfiguration looms over the town while the Church of St. Dmitry on the Blood with its rich red walls and blue onion domes offer a sharp contrast. Souvenir and shops selling all sorts of goods line the route from the ship’s berth to the main street of Uglich. We were told by the local guide that as many as 7 to 8 river cruise ships a day visit Uglich during the summer. They also were having a display of lacquer and paper Mache’ boxes for sale at very Western prices. Enameled watches are also a specialty of Uglich. We were treated to a short concert by a group of male classically trained singers who rendered several Russian songs a capella during our visit.

Moscow: We arrived in Moscow about 3 hours late because of heavy fog the previous evening while transiting the Moscow Canal. The river authorities do not allow movement in the canal during heavy fog, so we waited out the down time in one of the locks. The ship moored a good ways from downtown as the city authorities do not allow river cruise ships downtown, the same rule as St. Petersburg. Moscow is a city of 11.5 million people and traffic can be a nightmare. However, we were fortunate to arrive on a Monday before a national holiday (Day of Russia) on Tuesday and Moscovites are like people everywhere; they angle to take the day before a big holiday off. So, the traffic to downtown was pretty light and we made up some time on the city tour which started in the famous Red Square outside the Kremlin walls. The tour included a walk around Saint Basil’s Cathedral which is actually a museum, then on to the GUM department store which resembles a U.S. mall. We also walked past a “Historic Toilet” located in Gum’s that I believe was the 1st indoor lavatory in a Moscow department store. (Use of the WC was 84 roubles for those interested; I took a pass). We also went for a ride on the famed Moscow metro where many of the stations are elaborately decorated in frescoes, busts representing the struggle of the common man, and other adornments of the Russian revolution. As in St. Petersburg, the metro is clean (no graffiti in the stations or on the cars) and very safe.

The next day was the national holiday so our tours steered us quite far from Red Square (where demonstrations were purported to occur against the Presidential election recently completed) and out to Sparrow Hills which is a high priced area of the city. We also toured the New Maiden cemetery where various Russian notables such as Boris Yeltsin and Nikita Khrushchev are buried. The evening tour involved a visit to the Moscow circus which has been in continuous operation since 1980. A fun time of clowns, jugglers, trained poodles, bears, a lion taming act and culminated with a trapeze performance by 5 daring men & 1 woman.

The following day was a tour inside the Kremlin walls and to one of the 5 churches located inside the walls. I found it ironic that 5 churches would be allowed to exist following the revolution, but many things in Russia are strange, this only being one example. We also toured the Kremlin armory which contains the Tsar’s Crown Jewels, armor and armaments of the 16th- 18th century, many Tsarina coronation and wedding dresses as well as a very extensive display of Faberge eggs. The tour concluded with lunch at Moscow’s Hard Rock Café and time to tour Arbat Street which is a pedestrian only street in the heart of Moscow.

We had family obligations that required us to cut the last full day off the cruise and return home via direct flight from Moscow to Dulles International.

Final Observations: It was a very interesting and different river cruise for us. Because the distances are so vast, there is a lot more down time on this cruise than one in European waters, but Grand Circle can make it as busy or as relaxed as you like. The meals were comparable to those served on our other river cruises for quantity and quality. There are slightly more optional tours than with some other companies, but on the other hand, some of the included tours were excellent. St. Petersburg is a great city and one I’d be pleased to visit again; Moscow, not so much. Grand Circle is certainly worth your consideration as a cruise line as the prices are competitive with all other Russian river cruises. We did book our air through Grand Circle which I’m normally reluctant to do, but the routing was the same that I would have chosen had I done my own booking and the pricing was better than I could do on my own, especially considering what GCT would have charged for transfers to and from the ship. We did not purchase travel insurance through GCT as I found we could do better by shopping around over the Internet.

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We did this trip in 2004, aboard the chartered Nicholay Chernychevski, before Grand Circle had put the Tikhi Don into service. This was an excellent review and brings back memories. Please post it under Travelers Reviews on http://www.gct.com on this trip.

Thank you for the informative review. I am taking this tour in mid August. I will print what you wrote so that I can refer to it as I do some of my planning.

How many people were in your "group" ? Did you take the pretrip to Helsinki and Tallinn?

We had about 32 people in our group. I don't know what, if any criteria, other than numbers were used to make up the groups. We did not take any pre or post trips with this cruise.

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