Caribbean cruises have long been a favorite among vacation travelers for their picture-perfect scenery, white sand beaches, and turquoise waters. But even these tropical itineraries are full of activities—from nature reserves to hiking and snorkeling among coral reefs to shopping for local trinkets and accessories. a lot Caribbean Itinerary Steer clear of the tried-and-true island destinations, but many cruise lines have curated unique sailings that will undoubtedly impress even the most seasoned Caribbean cruisers.
of something Best Cruise Itinerary Take a non-traditional southern track to 2025 Panama along the northern coast of South America. Others are quieter, less frequented destinations like St. Croix and St. Barts Like banner ports Saint Lucia and Aruba For dramatic vistas and spectacular beaches. Below, nine of the best Caribbean cruises to book in 2025.
This article has been updated with new information since its original publication date.
FAQs
What are the best months to take a Caribbean cruise?
However, some cruise lines are in operation Caribbean Year-round, a wide selection of sailing dates and itineraries can be found between November and March.
Which part of the Caribbean is best for a cruise?
The best Caribbean cruise destinations are a matter of personal taste. Many cruises focus on a specific region, such as the southern, eastern, or western Caribbean. Many large cruises often stop at cruise line-operated private islands in the Bahamas.
What are the cheapest months to cruise in the Caribbean?
In general, the beginning or end of the November-to-March season can be the most affordable time for a Caribbean cruise. Any time when North American schools are widely in session is also a good time to find low fares.
Do you need a passport to go on a Caribbean cruise?
Check the cruise line before booking. US citizens traveling on cruises calling at many Caribbean countries can do so with both an enhanced state ID and an original birth certificate in lieu of a passport, but a passport is the easiest form of identification (and the most strongly recommended by both the US State Department and most cruise lines). . It is also important to note that documentation requirements may change, and passengers are ultimately responsible for having the required documents on board the flight or they may be denied boarding.
Which countries are part of the Caribbean?
The Caribbean is made up of 13 independent countries and three American and British territories. Antigua and Barbuda, Bahamas, Barbados, Cuba, Dominica, Dominican Republic, Grenada, Haiti, Jamaica, Saint Kitts and Nevis, Saint Lucia, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Trinidad and Tobago operate as independent countries. Puerto Rico and the US Virgin Islands are US territories while the British Virgin Islands is a British overseas territory.
Cunard
Itinerary: Eastern Caribbean 14 nights
Departure: March 15, 2025
Experience: Departing from New York CityCruisers have the chance to experience all the delights the Big Apple has to offer before heading to the Eastern Caribbean. Ports of calls include St. Maarten, St. Lucia, Grenada, Barbados, Dominica, St. Kitts and Tortola before returning to New York. With so many sea days, it’s imperative that the sailing destinations are as exciting as—Queen Mary 2 Every corner boasts striking Golden Age style and grandeur. From luxury spa experiences to black-tie parties, you’ll feel like a high roller on and off the ship.
MSC Cruises
Itinerary: Eastern Caribbean 7 nights
Departure: From April to October 2025
Experience: Calling the Bahamas, Dominican Republicand Puerto RicoFrom this seven-night round trip Miami A great way to spend the off season in the Caribbean. Guests will make the trip MSc America— featuring a blend of European design and American comfort — complete with more than 30 bars, lounges and restaurants. The itinerary includes a stop at Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve, where passengers can indulge in scuba diving, beach-side spa treatments and authentic Bahamian cuisine.
Regent Seven Seas Cruise
Itinerary: Yucatan Gems and Serene Islands
Departure: November 24, 2025
experience: From this 17-night cruise Miami ride on Seven Seas Magnificence The perfect itinerary for a relaxing sail through the Windward Islands of the Caribbean. Walk the white sand beaches of the Gulf Islands, cruise Gustavia Harbor on Gustavia’s semi-submarine, or enjoy a relaxing bike ride around St. Croix. A stand-out on the itinerary is Punta Cana’s Iguabonita Cave Expedition, in which travelers can explore an eco-theme park and follow a naturalist guide as they describe rare and unusual flora. There are two cruise fare options when booking a Regent Seven Seas Cruise, the All Inclusive Cruise Fare and the Ultimate All Inclusive. All-inclusive cruise fares give passengers more flexibility by including all the luxuries of sailing but allowing them to book their own air travel. Meanwhile, the ultimate all-inclusive fare available includes flights booked in the air class of your choice, coach transfers between the airport and ship, and private chauffeur service.
ponent
Itinerary: Essentials of the Caribbean
Departure: January 2025
Experience: On this 13-day cruise, passengers sail through the Caribbean Sea to the heart of the West Indies. Each port of call will include a specially curated excursion by Ponant: enjoy snorkeling in the waters near Port Elizabeth, take a catamaran cruise around Bequia, opt for retail therapy in the town of Soufriere, or island hop and glimpse towards St. Lucia. Of its two majestic rocky peaks, one unique UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Celebrity Cruises
Itinerary: The ultimate southern Caribbean
Departure: March 2025
Experience: Offering everything, from this 10-night roundtrip Fort Lauderdale Includes calls from St. Maarten, St. Lucia, Grenada, Barbados, and more Antigua. Guests can expect to walk the Great Bay Boardwalk, relax on Castries’ palm-lined Vigi Beach, or take in panoramic views of St. George’s Bay during a visit to Phillipsburg. Takes place on sailing board Beyond celebrityA fan-favorite ship known for its beautiful infinity veranda staterooms — named for the floor-to-ceiling windows that open onto private balconies with the push of a button — and ocean-going gastronomy on Le Voyage, chef Daniel Boulud’s first signature restaurant at sea.
Virgin Voyages
Itinerary: Western Caribbean charm
Departure: January, February, March, and April 2025
Experience: Take a six-night cruise through the Caribbean The Scarlet Lady. Passengers will exit Terminal V in Miami, a dedicated Virgin Port facility. During the sailing, guests will enjoy two full days in Costa Maya, Mexico and Roatan, Honduras where they spend time zip-lining and off-roading around the island before spending the rest of the port day at Virgin’s Lounge-Y Beach. can Club Bimini Private Island. On board, Wi-Fi and “essential” non-alcoholic beverages and gratuities are included on the adults-only ship, which includes more than 20 restaurants and many inventive ways to find a glass of champagne.
Holland America Line
Itinerary: 9 Day Southern Caribbean Cruise
Departure: March 7, 2025
Experience: Part Caribbean surf, part jungle excursion, this nine-day roundtrip aboard Fort Lauderdale Eurodom Call on Bonaire for the first time to get a taste of the Dutch culture of Holland America Line’s namesake Aruba And the Bahamas to take some time to enjoy the tropical wonders the region is famous for.
Norwegian Cruise Line
Itinerary: Fasal Caye, Cozumel and Roatan
Departure: January, February, March, and April 2025
Experience: In January 2025, new The Norwegian Gateway The ship will start from one Our readers’ favorite citiesNew Orleans. Before setting sail, it’s imperative that travelers spend some time wandering the French Quarter, catch a jazz concert, and fill up on their beignets. In addition to the Crescent City, guests can look forward to visiting Costa Maya, Mexico; Fasal Caye, Belize; and Roatan, Honduras. Guests have the opportunity to snorkel the Mesoamerican Reef—the second largest reef in the world—and take a moment to travel back in time when visiting the Tulum Mayan ruins just outside of Cozumel.
Princess Cruises
Itinerary: 4 Day Caribbean Getaway
Departure: October 29, 2025
Experience: Not all Caribbean cruises need to be a week or two in duration. Princess Cruises The ship offers a Halloween weekend getaway The regal princess It is only four nights during that period and one day stops in Cozumel. Two days at sea will fly with Princess Cruises’ exciting onboard experience—a movie theater, casino, original music performances, a handful of nightclubs, and two luxury spas. A highlight of this seasonal sailing is sitting in the ship’s piazza and watching celebratory passengers twirl their inventive costumes for spooky onboard fun—a princess tradition that dates back to the original. love boat series.