1. Overview of Eastern Caribbean Cruises
Setting sail on a cruise is a guaranteed good time no matter where you go. If a destination must be suggested, the Eastern Caribbean is high on the list. With endless sunshine, white-sand beaches, crystal-clear waters, and delicious foods, it is a corner of the world worth exploring on your next cruise getaway.
2. Difference Between Eastern and Western Caribbean Cruises
Many beautiful Caribbean islands deserve a visit at some point. However, for those particularly interested in exploring the Eastern Caribbean, it’s important to know which islands are included in this region. The exact destinations will vary depending on the cruise line and itinerary, but Eastern Caribbean cruises typically feature stops in the U.S. Virgin Islands, the British Virgin Islands, St. Kitts, St. Maarten, Puerto Rico, and the Dominican Republic. In contrast, a Western Caribbean cruise itinerary might include destinations like Jamaica, Mexico, or Belize.
3. Best Time to Go on an Eastern Caribbean Cruise
The weather in the Eastern Caribbean is warm year-round. Therefore, consider avoiding hurricane season, which can derail your cruise plans with cancellations and last-minute itinerary changes. Typically, hurricane season occurs between early June and late November, making winter a great time for a cruise to escape chilly home temperatures for balmy Caribbean weather.
4. Top 10 Eastern Caribbean Cruises for Your Next Getaway
Norwegian Cruise Line
Norwegian’s Caribbean: Curacao, Aruba & St. Kitts voyage takes guests from Puerto Rico to Aruba, Curacao, St. Lucia, and more on a seven-day getaway. The trip includes onboard entertainment, dining, and offers 87 different shore excursions.
Princess Cruises
This seven-day Eastern Caribbean sailing provides a chance to explore four unique ports of call, including those in the Bahamas, Turks and Caicos, and the Dominican Republic, departing from the convenient port in Fort Lauderdale.
Holland America
For a weeklong getaway, hop aboard this seven-day Eastern Caribbean trip featuring Puerto Rico, St. Thomas, and the Bahamas for a perfect sun-filled escape.
Celebrity Cruises
Spend a longer time at sea with this nine-night Eastern Caribbean trip with Celebrity, which includes stops in St. Thomas, St. Maarten, and St. John’s, Antigua.
Regent Seven Seas Cruises
For a full week of relaxation, embark on the seven-night San Juan to San Juan trip. This cruise visits St. Lucia and St. Barts, offering unlimited shore excursions, beverages, and specialty onboard dining options.
Oceania Cruises
Discover the Eastern Caribbean on this 12-day voyage with Oceania, stopping at Aruba, St. Kitts, Grenada, and more, while including six shore excursions, a beverage package, and a $600 onboard credit.
Royal Caribbean
Experience a quick jaunt through the region with this five-night Eastern Caribbean trip. This affordable cruise from Miami to Haiti offers a short yet enjoyable experience.
Azamara
Enjoy over a week in the Caribbean with the 12-night Caribbean Breezes voyage, stopping at Virgin Gorda, St. Maarten, St. Lucia, and more, along with culturally focused excursions for a richer experience.
Cunard
Sail on the Queen Mary 2 with this 12-night Eastern Caribbean voyage that travels to St. Kitts, St. Lucia, Barbados, and beyond, showcasing the elegance of this beloved vessel.
Windstar Cruises
Finally, for a more personalized sailing experience with a staff-to-guest ratio of 1:1.5, consider the St. Maarten to St. Maarten seven-day getaway, visiting St. Maarten, Virgin Gorda, and St. Barts.
