Cruising the Caribbean is an elite-level vacation option. Whether cruising to the Bahamas, soaking up the sun in Puerto Rico, or sipping rum on a Jamaican beach, the Caribbean is full of exceptional, luxury experiences which add up to an unforgettable vacation.
La Mina Falls in Puerto Rico. Photo by Wirepec, a US based photographer.
If anything, the only problem with a Caribbean cruise is that there is just too much choice! It can be hard to pick between such an array of world-class beaches, stunning island landscapes, amazing culture and traditions, and delectable culinary experiences. And that’s before you get into the magical world beneath the waves, with some of the best snorkeling and scuba diving destinations in the world to be found tucked away under the warm waters of the Caribbean sea.
So if you are planning a Caribbean cruise and feeling a little overwhelmed, here are some of the best things to do and most amazing experiences that can be found throughout the Caribbean, to help you get the best from your dream Caribbean vacation!
Discover Sensational Culinary Experiences on Sint Maarten
Beach adventures in St. Martin. Photo by Linda Aksomitis.
The tiny (half) island of Sint Maarten is known as the ‘culinary capital of the West Indies’, and any gourmet experience here will not disappoint! The cuisine is a fascinating blend of Dutch, French, and traditional Caribbean flavors, and the island boasts a stunning array of eateries, from fine dining restaurants to casual seaside shacks. You are guaranteed a stunning meal everywhere you go on this delightful little eastern Caribbean island.
Hike Amazing Trails in Puerto Rico
El Yunque in Puerto Rico is the only tropical rainforest in the US National Forest Service, and one of the true gems of the Caribbean. It is one of the smallest rainforests in the world, only 29,000 acres, but it is also one of the most biodiverse, with a stunning array of plants, trees, and wildlife (including the famous coqui frog!) unique to the island of Puerto Rico. It also boasts probably the best network of hiking trails in the Caribbean, as well as breathtaking panoramic views from the summit of Yokahú Observation Tower.
Snorkel Around the Real ‘Treasure Island
Robert Louis Stevenson’s classic novel sparked a fascination for pirates and the West Indies in the popular imagination. So what could be more exciting than discovering the inspiration for the adventure itself? Norman Island, located just south of Tortola in the British Virgin Island, is reputedly the spot that gave Stevenson the idea for his famous novel. While pirates and buccaneers are in short supply these days, the crystal-clear waters are perfect for snorkeling and swimming. And keep an eye out, you never know when you might find a cache of buried treasure..!
Swim with Stingrays in the Cayman Islands
Grand Cayman is home to the world-famous Stingray City, a spot of shallow water where the activity of local fishermen attracts hundreds, even thousands of stingrays to bask and feed. Swimming and snorkeling with these wonderfully weird creatures is truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience, and they are curious, friendly, and harmless, despite their reputation!
Ride Waves in Barbados
Although the charming island of Barbados is best known for its luxury resorts and quaint British telephone boxes, the eastern coastline of the island is rather more dramatic and rugged than many people think. This magnificent shoreline offers some stunning natural rock formations and wild beaches, which are both gorgeous to look at, and fantastic for surfers and wave riders of all stripes. Due to its relative remoteness, Bathsheba Beach offers the chance to soak up a little unspoiled nature, as well as the chance to see some of the best surfers in the world in action!
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More Things to See and Do in the Caribbean
About the Photo
The photo in the header above was taken on a beach on Sint Martin island in the Caribbean Sea, by Linda Aksomitis.
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