The Eastern Caribbean is still one of the most sought-after cruise itineraries in the world. The region offers crystal clear waters, colorful coral reefs, pristine beaches, a blend of European and Caribbean culture and history, and duty-free shopping–the perfect tropical escape.
Some of the most common ports of call on Eastern Caribbean itineraries are St. Maarten, St. Thomas in the US Virgin Islands, San Juan in Puerto Rico, and Tortola in the British Virgin Islands. Each of these destinations offers something unique that cruisers just can’t seem to get enough of.
Let’s begin with St. Maarten. St. Maarten is a dual-nation island, meaning there is a unique blend of Dutch and French culture. Philipsburg is the Dutch capital of the island, while Marigot is the capital of the French side of the island. The atmosphere of each side of the island is unique, and cruisers will want to experience everything each culture has to offer. The culinary scene is extremely diverse and offers a blend of Caribbean, French, and Dutch cuisine. From the fine dining in Grand Case to the local open-air eateries, cruisers can enjoy authentic island dishes.
In Philipsburg, cruisers can explore the colorful streets where they will find museums, bars, restaurants, and duty-free shopping. Be sure to visit Front Street, where you will find vendors offering everything from luxury items to souvenirs. On the French side of the island, cruisers will find the clothing-optional Orient Bay offering a small piece of paradise with all the amenities. Near Orient Bay is the Butterfly Farm, a picturesque tropical garden filled with hundreds of butterflies.
The French side of the island tends to be more laid-back, with a sophisticated atmosphere offering high-end boutiques and gourmet French bakeries. In the capital city of Marigot, guests will find Fort Louis, a historic, 18th-century military fort that overlooks Marigot Bay. The highest point on the island, Pic Paradis, is located on the French side and offers breathtaking views of the island and surrounding waters.
On the Dutch side of the island, guests will find the extremely popular Maho Beach. Maho Beach is adjacent to Princess Juliana International Airport, making it a favorite excursion for many cruisers, as they can watch jets fly just overhead as they land and take off from the runway. St. Maarten also offers snorkeling and diving, the St. Maarten Zoo, zip-lining, and many more family-friendly activities.
Cruisers can travel a little further south to the beautiful island of St. Thomas in the US Virgin Islands. Cruisers can enjoy a breathtaking Skyride to Paradise Point or spend the day at one of the most famous beaches in the Caribbean, Magens Bay. This heart-shaped bay features white sand and peaceful waters.
Cruisers who enjoy snorkeling will want to visit Turtle Cove near Buck Island. The underwater world is home not only to green sea turtles but also to colorful fish and coral reefs. Cruisers who would rather stay dry can view marine life close up at Coral World Ocean Park, located near Coki Beach. The ocean-themed park even offers sea lion, stingray, and turtle encounters.
Cruisers who prefer history and culture will want to tour the capital city of Charlotte Amalie with its cobblestone alleys and colonial buildings. Additionally, cruisers can explore Fort Christian or the famous 99 Steps, built by the Danes in the 1700s. And, of course, there is duty-free shopping.
Next stop–San Juan, Puerto Rico. San Juan is the largest and most historically significant cruise port in the region. Travelers will find a variety of activities for everyone. Old San Juan offers cobblestone streets surrounded by beautiful Spanish colonial architecture as well as many historical sites such as El Morro and San Cristóbal. Just beyond the city walls, cruisers can step into the beauty of the nearby El Yunque National Forest, the only tropical rainforest in the US National Forest System.
The beautiful beaches of San Juan are perfect for soaking up the sun and relaxing for the day. San Juan also offers waters just right for snorkeling and scuba diving, allowing cruisers to view coral reefs, tropical fish, sea turtles, and more for an unforgettable day. Cruisers can choose to go horseback riding at Campo Rico, found just minutes from San Juan. Foodies will enjoy a food tour through San Juan as they sample local cuisine. Late-night port calls allow cruisers to experience the nightlife in San Juan with salsa clubs, live music, and more.
Cruisers will also enjoy visiting Tortola, the largest and most populated of the British Virgin Islands. Beaches, history, charm, beauty, and duty-free shopping are waiting in Tortola. The most famous of those beaches in Tortola is Cane Garden Bay. Known for its white sand and turquoise waters, Cane Garden Bay is perfect for swimming and sunbathing. Within Cane Garden Bay, cruisers will find the Callwood Rum Distillery, which offers tours of its 200-year-old distillery complete with tastings of the spirits.
Smuggler’s Cove is a secluded beach featuring crystal-clear waters and quiet. Brewer’s Bay is another beach known for its snorkeling and diving, offering coral reefs and vibrant marine life. Surfers will want to visit Josiah’s Bay with its natural beauty.
Road Town, the capital of the British Virgin Islands, is bustling with activity, shops, markets, waterfront restaurants, and history. Cruisers will find Tortola Pier Park near the cruise ship dock in Road Town. With its local and international shops and restaurants, it is becoming a favorite spot for a fun afternoon or evening. Also located in Road Town is Dolphin Discovery, which allows cruisers to interact with dolphins in a protected and natural setting.
The Eastern Caribbean continues to be a timeless favorite, offering warm weather and beauty year-round. All the major cruise lines offer Eastern Caribbean itineraries from one or more of the main ports in Florida–PortMiami, Fort Lauderdale and Port Canaveral.