The Eastern Caribbean tends more urbanized and adventure-oriented. Western Caribbean cruises, however, offer more beach time and activities. This article will focus on the different excursions available to Western Caribbean cruise passengers. These excursions include visiting historic sites and experiencing local culture. These excursions will give you a fresh perspective on the Caribbean.
Eastern Caribbean cruises are more "urbanized"
Eastern Caribbean cruises are more frequent than Western Caribbean cruises. For example, a Caribbean cruise to the Eastern Caribbean might include stops in the US Virgin Islands, St. Maarten, and Grand Turk, as well as numerous other islands nearby. These options allow you to island hop, relax on a beach and shop in these beautiful islands.
Eastern Caribbean cruises offer more shore excursions and excursions that western counterparts. Many of these ports offer shopping, cultural, and historical opportunities. They usually include stops at the Bahamas, Haiti and Jamaica as well as the Florida Keys and Cuba.
Eastern Caribbean cruises offer more adventure and excitement.
Eastern Caribbean cruises tend to be more sophisticated than those from the west. There are more activities available for passengers in the Eastern Caribbean. Watersports are available as well as duty-free shopping. However, you won't likely find the same kind of exotic atmosphere. You might visit abandoned islands and find hip restaurants, but it won't be difficult to find something you like on shore.
Eastern Caribbean cruises offer rich colonial history at many ports as well as stunning beaches and unique landscapes. While many cruise lines steer clear of the Caribbean's islands, some make itineraries that take in Eastern Caribbean locations. One popular example is Windstar's Wind Spirit, which makes seven-night-round-trip calls to St. Thomas, Virgin Gorda, St. Martin, and St. Maarten. The Carnival Legend and Norwegian Dawn are other options, as they both make year-round stops on the Eastern Caribbean.
Western Caribbean cruises offer so much more than just beaches
A Western Caribbean cruise is a great option if you want more than beaches. This cruise can take guests to Mexico and Grand Cayman, Jamaica, Grand Cayman, Grand Cayman, Grand Cayman, Grand Cayman, Grand Cayman, Jamaica, and other locations in the western Caribbean. Cruises typically depart from Texas and New Orleans for four to five nights.
Cruisers can see the most breathtaking coral reefs on earth, as well historic ruins and spectacular beaches. The region's history, culture, and lush rainforests can all be explored on excursions. They can also enjoy other land-based activities such as horseback riding, scuba diving, and even horseback riding.
Excursions to the Western Caribbean Cruises
Excursions on Western Caribbean cruises are an excellent way to see the region as a whole and learn more about the local culture. This part of the world includes Spanish-speaking countries. It is very different from the Eastern Caribbean. Carnival Cruise Line offers a wide range of Western Caribbean cruises. They also offer shore excursions to visit the region's most spectacular sights.
The Western Caribbean region is one of the largest in the Caribbean. This area has many amazing areas that you can visit. Roatan (Belize), Progreso (and many more islands) are some of these areas. The climate in this region is tropical, and the islands are rich in natural resources, such as flora and fauna. You might even get to see some wildlife if you go on a Western Caribbean cruise.
Cruises to the Western Caribbean: Ports of Call
The Western Caribbean cruise region offers a wide variety of ports of call. Mexico, Central America, Colombia, and the Caribbean Sea are just a few of the many destinations you can explore. Many of these port are great for shore excursions. Depending upon the cruise type, you can explore towns and cities off the beaten paths or simply enjoy nature at its finest.
Three spectacular ports on the Yucatan Peninsula, eastern coast of Mexico and Progreso in the Yucatan state are ideal for Western Caribbean cruise ships. These are Progreso in Yucatan, Cozumel, Quintana Roo and Costa Maya in Mexico.
FAQ
Book my cruise after or before I book my airfare.
It depends on where you are travelling to. Generally speaking, it is better to book your cruise first because this gives you more flexibility in terms of dates. You could, for example, plan your cruise around the summer months if you are sure you will be visiting Europe. For those who are planning to go to South America or Asia, it might be a better idea to book your cruise after high season to avoid high prices.
Are cruise ships safe?
Yes, cruise ships are very safe places to travel. Cruise ships come equipped with modern technology and security systems. The safety regulations for cruise ships are very strict. Crew members go through extensive training, and must pass background checks. Passengers are screened upon boarding the ship. Some cruise lines require passengers to provide proof of vaccinations against certain illnesses. If you ever have concerns about your safety while on board, contact the cruise line's customer relations department immediately.
How long does it take to get to port?
It depends on many factors such as the distance between the port & the ship and the speed at which it travels. Important to remember that some ships dock very close by shore, so they can unload their passengers as quickly as possible. Others dock further from shore so the ship takes longer to arrive.
Is there an all-inclusive cruise?
Because they don't offer meals for people with special dietary requirements, cruise ships aren't all-inclusive. They also do not provide room service, laundry services, or other amenities such as pools, gyms, spas, etc.
Certain cruise lines offer "all inclusive" packages, which include all the necessary amenities except alcohol. These packages often include airfare, hotel accommodations as well entertainment and beverages.
Do I have to dress up for a cruise or not?
You don't necessarily need to wear fancy clothes or formal attire. Just be comfortable and ready to relax.
Statistics
- For an example of savings, Royal Caribbean offers up to a 40% discount with a dining package. (travel.usnews.com)
- You'll need to budget around $80 per person per day for this option – and an additional 18% gratuity. (travel.usnews.com)
- If you're traveling alone, you may also need to factor in a single supplement, adding up to as much as 100% of the cruise fare. (travel.usnews.com)
- In addition, 10 to 15 percent gratuity is typically added to bar bills — for alcohol and soft drinks — and gratuities are applied to spa treatments. (cruiseline.com)
External Links
How To
How can you plan your first cruise?
Like any other trip, planning a cruise requires you to think about many factors, including where to go, what activities, how much to budget, and what to do with your money. There are some important differences to consider when planning your first cruise if you are new to cruising. Cruises usually last for three weeks longer than land vacations, so make sure you leave nothing out. These are some tips that will make your vacation even more enjoyable.
-
Book your cruise as early as possible - Make sure you book at least six months before you depart. You can save money and avoid crowds by booking early. Also, you'll have plenty time to research your ship, itinerary, ports and activities. You might even find a deal on airfare too!
-
Choose a destination - It doesn't matter which port you choose; just pick one that appeals to you. Many reasons people enjoy cruising to different places. While some people enjoy exploring new cities, others prefer to relax onboard. Whatever floats your boat, just remember to keep in mind the type of destination you'd like to visit. A popular choice is a Caribbean island, followed closely by Europe and Alaska.
-
Booking a suite is an option. Suites include extra space, a private terrace, and additional amenities. These suites are typically available for between $100 and $300 per night depending on the size of the room and availability of suites during the sailing date.
-
The weather forecast is important - Cruising is often associated to warm tropical climates. Check the weather forecasts for days that you will be visiting ports. It is possible for the sea to be unpredictable, especially in Antarctica. Before you book your cruise, it is a good idea to check how severe the weather may be.
-
Take only 10 things on your cruise. That means no suitcases full of clothes or shoes! You can instead pack all you need in small, carry-on-sized bags. Layer clothing, as you won't be able wash it at all on board.
-
Do your research. Before you buy tickets, make sure to read online reviews. Check out their cancellation policies and pricing.
-
These must-see locations are not to be missed. Make sure to visit each port at the very least once. Each location is unique and has its own culture. Take advantage of the many local attractions.