Set sail onboard the all-new MSC World America for an incredible Eastern Caribbean adventure, filled with luxury, stunning destinations, and relaxation.
Caribbean Cruise Holidays
Popular Destinations
Eastern Caribbean
St. Thomas, St. Maarten, Puerto Rico
Western Caribbean
Cozumel, Grand Cayman, Jamaica
Southern Caribbean
Aruba, Curacao, Barbados
Overview
The Best of the Ocean
Caribbean cruise holidays offer an enchanting way to explore the diverse and picturesque islands scattered throughout the region.
One of the main attractions of a Caribbean cruise is the opportunity to visit multiple islands in a single trip. Typical itineraries include multiple stops, allowing you to explore different cultures, landscapes, and activities.
Tailor Make your Caribbean Cruise Holidays
A magical adventure awaits you on your perfect Caribbean cruise holiday. From island adventures to balmy beach days, Caribbean cruise holidays offer the best of the ocean in impeccable styl
Caribbean Cruise Holidays
Set sail on the ultimate Caribbean adventure.
Miami & 7 Night MSC World America Caribbean Cruise
Miami & 7 Night MSC World America Caribbean Cruise
8 Nights From €1499 per person
VIEW HOLIDAY DETAILS
Tampa Bay & 5 Night Bahamas Cruise
Tampa Bay & 5 Night Bahamas Cruise
9 Nights From €1475 per person
Get onboard the all-new Norwegian Aqua for an incredible Eastern Caribbean adventure.
VIEW HOLIDAY DETAILS
Eastern Caribbean Cruise From Miami
Eastern Caribbean Cruise From Miami
8 Nights From €1899 per person
Get onboard the all-new Norwegian Aqua for an incredible Eastern Caribbean adventure.
VIEW HOLIDAY DETAILS
Discover Cruises Around The World
Explore hundreds of cruise-only holidays from top cruise lines with destinations around the globe. Call us to add flights and hotels.
Things to do
Explore the Caribbean
Each island has its own unique charm, offering a mix of beautiful beaches, historical sites, vibrant local markets, and outdoor adventures.
Different cruise lines and ships operate in the Caribbean, offering a range of experiences from luxury and romance to family-friendly Disney-themed ships.
Caribbean cruise ships are like floating resorts, providing a mind-boggling array of onboard activities and amenities. From pools, water parks, and spas to Broadway-style shows, casinos, and themed dining options, there’s something for everyone. Many cruise lines also offer educational programs and workshops related to Caribbean culture, history, and marine life.
Caribbean cruise itineraries typically include optional shore excursions at each port of call. Activities range from guided city tours and historical visits to snorkelling, zip-lining, and beach outings. Some cruise lines offer exclusive experiences, such as private island retreats and cultural immersions.
Cruise ships in the Caribbean are renowned for their diverse and delicious dining options. Caribbean-themed dishes and fresh, local ingredients often make their way onto the menus.
Evenings on a Caribbean cruise are filled with entertainment options. Enjoy Broadway-style shows, live music, comedy clubs, and themed parties. Many cruise lines also have vibrant nightlife scenes, including bars, lounges, and nightclubs.
Beyond the activities and adventures, cruising the Caribbean offers many opportunities for relaxation. Lounge by the pool, indulge in spa treatments, or simply soak in the breathtaking views as the ship sails through the turquoise waters and past scenic coastlines.
A cruise and stay package is the perfect way to extend your holiday. Opt for a pre-cruise stay to settle into holiday mode, or a post-cruise stay to keep the adventure going. You can enjoy the best of both worlds, relaxing days at sea and exploring vibrant cities, all in one perfect getaway.
Pair your Caribbean cruise with some of America’s most exciting destinations. Experience sunny beaches and world-famous theme parks in Florida or discover famous landmarks in NYC. Music lovers will adore Nashville’s legendary country scene, while New Orleans combines jazz, history and Creole cuisine. However you like to travel, a cruise and stay holiday lets you experience more.
Best Times To Travel
December – February
Winter offers mild weather, typically ranging from 21°C to 27°C, and calm seas. Its peak travel time, so expect more crowds. Major events include the St. Lucia Jazz Festival and Carnival in Trinidad and Tobago. You may find the occasional rain showers during this period.
March – May
Spring brings sunny weather with fewer crowds, making it ideal for a more relaxed cruise experience. The seas are typically calm, and events like the Bahamas Carnival add to the fun.
June – August
Summer is hot, with temperatures ranging from 29°C to 35°C, and less crowded. It’s also hurricane season, which can lead to rougher seas and unpredictable weather. If you do intend to travel during hurricane season, prepare to be flexible, as you may find your ship being rerouted or ports of call changed.
September – November
Autumn sees warm temperatures, with the weather starting to cool slightly towards November. However, it’s hurricane season, so be prepared for potential disruptions such as ship rerouting or changes to port stops.
Guides
Staff Tips
Explore the ship, plan your nights and learn where the restaurants are. It still amazes me how huge cruise ships are. It’s crazy! I think it’s a great idea to take a tour of the ship or go out exploring on your own, to learn where everything is.
Astrid BellCruise Product Manager
For the first day of your cruise, pack a small carry-on bag with your travel documents, a change of clothes, swimsuit, exercise clothes and any medications you may need. That way you don't have to wait for your checked bags to arrive in your stateroom.
Amanda O'BrienPersonal Travel Planner
Get to know the staff early in the cruise. They can give you some wonderful inside information regarding the ports of call, excursions, activities, and so on.
Kristin SkinnerPersonal Travel Planner
It’s always worth having a small amount of local currency for immediate expenses on arrival at your destination and for any purchases you make at your ports of call. We also recommend you carry a major credit or charge card (American Express®, MasterCard® or Visa®), or sufficient funds in U.S.$ travellers cheques which can be cashed on board.
Astrid BellCruise Product Manager
There will be a laundry service on board all ships; the service is not “self service” and prices vary by garment type
Tracy CrowleyPersonal Travel Planner
Caribbean Cruise FAQs
What is the best time of year to take a Caribbean cruise?
The best time of year for a Caribbean cruise is typically between December and April, during the dry season, when the weather is milder and the seas are calmer.
How long should my cruise be?
The ideal cruise length depends on your schedule and preferences. A 5-day cruise is great for a quick getaway, while a 7-day cruise gives you more time to explore multiple destinations. Longer cruises are perfect for those looking to experience the Caribbean without feeling rushed.
What are the best cruise lines for a Caribbean cruise?
Popular cruise lines for the Caribbean include Royal Caribbean, Norwegian Cruise Line, MSC, Celebrity Cruises, Princess Cruise Line, SilverSea and Disney Cruise Line!
What’s the difference between Eastern, Western, and Southern Caribbean cruise itineraries?
Eastern Caribbean cruises are known for their stunning beaches and stops in islands like St. Thomas and the Bahamas, while Western Caribbean cruises offer visits to places like Cozumel Mexico, Jamaica and Miami. Southern Caribbean cruise itineraries tend to include more remote destinations like Barbados, St. Lucia and Curacao.
What documents do I need for a Caribbean cruise (passport, visas, vaccinations)?
A valid passport is required for Caribbean cruises, especially if you’re travelling to multiple countries. Depending on your itinerary, you may need visas or proof of vaccinations. Always check the specific entry requirements for each destination in advance.
Should I book excursions through the cruise line or independently?
Booking excursions through the cruise line ensures that your excursion will return to the ship on time, while independent cruises can offer potentially lower prices. The cruise line will source the best experiences in each destination so you get the most out of your time. If you do book a tour independently, make sure you have enough time to get back to the ship!
What’s included in the price of a Caribbean cruise, and what costs extra?
Most cruise packages include your accommodation, meals, entertainment and most onboard activities. Extra costs typically include alcoholic beverages, speciality dining, shore excursions and gratuities. So once you account for flights, transfers, accommodation, meals and entertainments, a cruise can be a very cost effective way to see multiple destinations in one holiday.
What’s the best cabin type for a Caribbean cruise—inside, oceanview, balcony, or suite?
It depends on your preferences and budget. Inside cabins are more affordable but have no windows so if you simply want someone to rest your head and make the most of your day and on board experiences, these cabins can be a very good choice. Oceanview cabins offer a view of the sea, while balcony cabins provide a private outdoor space. Suites are the most luxurious, offering extra space and amenities.
What should I pack for a Caribbean cruise?
Pack light, comfortable casual clothing for warm weather, including swimwear, sun cream, hats and casual outfits for daytime activities. Don’t forget something a bit more dressy for the formal nights.
How do drink packages work, and are they worth it?
Yes! Drink packages offer unlimited drinks for a set price, covering alcohol, soft drinks and sometimes hot beverages. If you plan to enjoy multiple drinks each day, a drinks package is well worth it.
How do gratuities work on a cruise, and can they be adjusted?
Gratuities are typically included and are added to your bill daily, covering staff like cabin attendants and waiters. There’s usually a standard rate, but you can adjust these amounts on most cruise lines.
Is Wi-Fi available on the cruise, and how much does it cost?
Wi-Fi is available on most ships, but it can be costly and slower than what you’re used to on land. Costs can vary, so it’s a good idea to check pricing ahead of time. Be sure to have your mobile data off to avoid roaming charges.
Will my mobile data plans work when I’m on a cruise?
Using mobile data on a cruise ship is possible, but it’s generally expensive due to roaming charges. It’s best to check with your carrier about roaming plans or purchase a cruise line data package. Using your phone’s data while at sea can result in high roaming charges from your mobile provider.
What are the best Caribbean cruise destinations to visit?
Popular Caribbean ports of call include Nassau in the Bahamas, St. Thomas in the U.S. Virgin Islands and San Juan in Puerto Rico. Nassau is known for its stunning beaches, snorkelling and diving. St. Thomas is famous for its breathtaking views from spots like Magens Bay and is great for water sports, while San Juan is a great combination of history and modern attractions.
What are the best activities to do on the cruise line’s private islands?
Private cruise line islands such as CocoCay (Royal Caribbean), Ocean Cay (MSC) and Castaway Cay (Disney Cruise Line) are exclusive destinations, owned by the cruise lines and designed to give guests a luxury beach experience. These islands often offer a wide range of activities such as water sports like snorkeling and kayaking, ziplining and even exclusive beachside dining and cabanas.
Do I need to bring cash for spending at ports, or is credit card widely accepted?
Credit cards are widely accepted in most Caribbean ports, but it’s always a good idea to bring some local currency for small purchases and tips, especially for local markets. Many shops and vendors also accept US dollars, but check in advance for each destination.
How do I know if I need a visa for certain Caribbean cruise stops?
Visa requirements vary depending on your nationality and the countries you’re visiting. Check with your cruise line and the Irish Government website for travel advice here.
What are the best ways to avoid seasickness on a Caribbean cruise?
To try to avoid seasickness, choose a cabin in the middle of the ship where the motion is less noticeable. Natural remedies such as ginger, mint and camomile will help settle travel sickness and over-the-counter remedies like travel sickness tablets or wrist bands can help as well. It’s also helpful to stay well hydrated and get fresh air when needed.
How early should I arrive at the port before embarkation?
Arrive at the port at least 2 to 3 hours before your scheduled departure time to allow for check-in, security and boarding procedures. This will give you enough time to get settled before departure.
What are some common mistakes first-time cruisers make, and how can I avoid them?
Common mistakes include forgetting important documents, overpacking, not being aware of timezones, so you miss departures, and not researching ports or shore excursions in advance to make the most of your time abroad. To avoid these, make sure you double-check your documents, pack light and efficiently and take the time to learn about the destinations and excursions available at each port.
