From hiking through national parks and diving among coral reefs, the Caribbean islands have since years been a favorite destination for leisure travelers. While the best cruise destinations depends on the personal taste of the visitor, cruise lines usually focus on the southern, eastern, or Western Caribbean Islands. Also, some top cruise lines often dock at a privately operated island in the Bahamas.
In the coming year, you can sail to some of the breathtaking islands of the Caribbean, visiting as many as 25 countries and 65 destinations in the Caribbean, which include the highly-rated Aruba, Bonaire and Curacao. With no shortage of choices for a cruise to the Caribbean with cruise ship websites listing thousands of Caribbean sailings, this is great great news for cruisers, but also a bit overwhelming when it comes to deciding where to go.
The answer to this million dollar question in a noncommittal way is: it all depends. The ship you want to sail in, the best itinerary for you, the best for your kids?
After all, the best cruise destination for families and kids may not necessarily be the ideal one for a couple looking for a romantic getaway. Again some love the big-resort feel of swanky ocean going liners, others can be horrified by the very idea of them.
Since there is a ship and itinerary for everyone, this blog will help you narrow down the choices to either Eastern or Western Caribbean to make the most of your 2025 cruise adventure.
RECIPE FOR THE PERFECT CARIBBEAN CRUISE
If you are yearning for a holiday that covers multiple destinations, offers a variety of experiences without the stress of constant packing and unpacking, avoid the hassles of flight delays, a Caribbean cruise provides the perfect freedom you need.
When it comes to cruise ports, you are in for a treat. For cruisers, especially first timers, the bustling Western Caribbean destinations, such as Mexico and Cozumel, make for a perfect start.
For exploring Mayan history, the Yucatan peninsula is just the ideal place for your cruise vacation. From ancient sites, dating far back to 300 AD to impressive pyramids, all can be found in Mexico’s Cozumel, Tulum, Costa Maya and Chichen Itza.
Furthermore, Mexico’s Puerto Costa Maya is the epicentre of Mayan art, culture and architecture. Here you can also find the Spanish fort Fuerte San Felipe Bacalar.
Spend time exploring these historic sites which are only a little more than an hour’s drive from the port. Plus there are cenotes in the area should you wish to dive in a cavern.
Explore Ratan, Honduras, the culture capital of Central America and also known around the world for its vibrant coral reefs. Stroll through the ancient ruins of the Mayan city of Copan, a site so archaeological rich that new finds are being unearthed to this day.
The Western Caribbean is home to mysterious caverns and dense rainforests not to be found anywhere else in the region. One can spend days swimming in crystal clear waters or dive for underwater adventure where diverse marine life awaits to greet you.
The freshwater cenote, Cenote Azul, is Mexico’s jewel in the crown and you can spend the day swimming in the dazzling blue waters which is literally teeming with colorful sea life. Moreover, the waters here are crystal clear, making it perfect for diving, swimming and snorkeling.
Stroll down one of the best beaches in the world, the Seven Mile Beach in Grand Cayman Island, a long stretch of beautiful coral sand.
Eastern Caribbean
Eastern Caribbean cruises typically call on Barbados, St Lucia, St Kitts, the British Virgin Islands and Grenada with some sailing to Turks and Caicos Islands. Ofcourse you need to keep safety in mind before choosing your Caribbean getaway.
So go ahead and choose the Western Caribbean for your 2025 cruise vacation for experiencing exciting adventures, each full of its unique style and vibe.
