Highlights of the Caribbean

The Lesser Antilles  are home to some of the most popular destinations in  the Caribbean, like the Virgin Islands, St. Lucia & St. Martin, where delightful cafes, tranquil towns, and serene beaches highlight the sea side scenery.

​The Grenadines: 
Sail to Grenada, Bequia, Union Island, Mayreau, Tobago Cays, Carriacou, Sandy Island, Canouan and Happy Island; try some of the famous local Caribbean rum; relax on the beach; or participate in various land excursions.

The Bahamas: As you cruise through the Bahamas on a small sailboat, get into the groove of the laid back lifestyle of the islands, the culinary delights of the local cuisine, and perhaps even have a chance to try hoisting the sails or taking over the helm of your sailboat.

The Virgin Islands: Offer you some of the best snorkeling opportunities in the whole Caribbean, featuring crystal clear waters and diverse marine life, in addition to stops in charming port towns along the way, where you can get a taste of the local island culture.

The Panama Canal: In the far south of the Caribbean, see the breathtaking marvel that is the Panama Canal, when the greatest minds and thousands of dedicated workers labored internationally to connect the Atlantic & Pacific trade routes.
 

Top Sites To visit in the Caribbean

• The Blue Hole of Belize: Nestled in the Lighthouse Reef, the Great Blue Hole is a massive underwater sinkhole. This natural wonder, over 300 meters in diameter and 125 meters deep, showcases stunning marine life and geological formations, making it a world-renowned dive site.
• Piton Mountains in Saint Lucia: The iconic Pitons, two volcanic spires rising dramatically from the Caribbean Sea, are a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Gros Piton and Petit Piton offer breathtaking views and hiking opportunities, showcasing the unique geological features of the region.
• Pristine Tobago Cays Marine Park: This protected marine reserve in the Grenadines is a haven for marine life. Snorkelers and divers can explore vibrant coral reefs, swim with sea turtles, and enjoy the crystal-clear waters of this idyllic Caribbean destination.
• Historic Sites of San Juan, Puerto Rico: San Juan's Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, boasts colorful Spanish colonial architecture. El Castillo San Felipe del Morro and Castillo San Cristóbal, historic fortresses, reflect the city's strategic importance in the region's history.
• Dominican Republic's Pico Duarte: As the highest peak in the Caribbean, Pico Duarte stands at 3,087 meters above sea level. Hikers can embark on an adventure through dense forests to reach the summit, where panoramic views of the island await.
• The Baths, Virgin Gorda: This geological wonder in the British Virgin Islands features colossal granite boulders creating stunning grottoes and pools along the beach. It's a natural playground for exploration, swimming, and photography.
• Morne Trois Pitons National Park, Dominica: Dominica's UNESCO-listed national park is a treasure trove of natural wonders. Boiling Lake, the second-largest hot spring in the world, and Trafalgar Falls, with its twin cascades, highlight the island's geothermal activity.
• Cuba's Viñales Valley: Known for its picturesque tobacco fields and limestone karst formations, Viñales Valley is a UNESCO site. The vibrant landscapes and traditional agricultural practices offer a glimpse into rural Cuban life.

What to Expect on a Luxury Caribbean Cruise
When you book a luxury Caribbean cruise aboard one of our hand-selected small ships, you are signing up for an unforgettable combination of comfort and service. 

We feature only small ships, yachts, and windjammers for our luxury Caribbean cruises, because we believe that this should be an intimate experience that you share with your loved ones, and that's exactly the ambiance the small ships offer. 

While each ship has a unique design, we guarantee elegance and style, in addition to comfortable and spacious suites - often with their own private balconies - and the best onboard amenities of any small Caribbean ships.

Luxury cruises offer all kinds of included activities to fill your days, but there are also add-on packages that can bring even more adventure and exploration to your itinerary. Plus there's plenty of free time built in to these cruises at each port so that you can simply relax on the beach and meander around the small towns if you prefer.
 

Fun Facts About the Caribbean

• Diverse Coral Reefs: The Caribbean is home to some of the most diverse coral reefs globally, with an array of marine life inhabiting its crystal-clear waters.
• Multilingual Region: The Caribbean is a linguistically diverse region, with English, Spanish, French, Dutch, and various Creole languages spoken across its islands.
• Pirates' Haven: The Caribbean was a notorious haven for pirates during the 17th and 18th centuries, with legendary figures like Blackbeard and Calico Jack roaming its waters.
• World's First Rum Distillery: Mount Gay Rum Distillery in Barbados claims to be the world's oldest, dating back to 1703, showcasing the region's historical ties to the production of rum.
• Birthplace of Salsa and Merengue: The Caribbean has played a pivotal role in the development of music genres, including the birthplace of salsa in Cuba and merengue in the Dominican Republic.
• Blue Flag Beaches: The Caribbean hosts numerous Blue Flag beaches, recognized for their environmental management, cleanliness, and safety standards.
• Hurricane Alley: The Caribbean experiences a hurricane season from June to November, with a higher likelihood of hurricanes and tropical storms during these months.
• Biodiversity Hotspot: The Caribbean is a biodiversity hotspot, hosting a vast array of plant and animal species, including the endangered Hawksbill turtle and the colorful Queen Angelfish.
• Cricket Craze: Cricket is a popular sport in the Caribbean, and the West Indies cricket team is one of the most successful in international competitions.
• Arawak and Taino Indigenous Peoples: The Caribbean was originally inhabited by indigenous peoples, including the Arawak and Taino, whose influences are still visible in the region's culture and traditions.
• Cayman Islands' Stingray City: Grand Cayman's Stingray City allows visitors to interact with friendly southern stingrays in their natural habitat, creating a unique and unforgettable experience.
• Jamaica's Blue Mountain Coffee: Jamaica is renowned for its Blue Mountain Coffee, one of the most sought-after and expensive coffees globally, grown in the Blue Mountains region.

Top Tips to Know When Traveling to the Caribbean

• Diverse Currency: Be aware that the Caribbean is a region with diverse currencies. While some islands use the Eastern Caribbean Dollar (XCD), others, like Jamaica, use the Jamaican Dollar (JMD), and some, including Puerto Rico, use the United States Dollar (USD).
• Hurricane Preparedness: During the hurricane season (June to November), stay informed about weather conditions and consider travel insurance that covers unforeseen disruptions. Check local advisories and be flexible with your plans. Prices tend to be lower during this season.
• Island Time: Embrace the laid-back lifestyle known as "island time." Things may move at a slower pace, so plan accordingly and savor the relaxed atmosphere.
• Water Safety: Exercise caution with water activities. While the Caribbean boasts stunning beaches, currents and tides can be strong. Pay attention to warning flags, and only swim in designated safe areas.
• Local Cuisine Exploration: Dive into the local cuisine. Each island offers unique flavors, so try traditional dishes and street food. Don't miss specialties like jerk chicken in Jamaica or conch fritters in The Bahamas.
• Bargaining Skills: Brush up on your bargaining skills, especially in local markets. Haggling is common, and you may score better deals on souvenirs or goods by negotiating with local vendors.
• Transportation Options: Explore various transportation options. Some islands have well-developed public transportation, while others may require renting a car. Consider your destination's infrastructure for the best travel experience.
• Language Variation: English is widely spoken, but many islands have their own dialects or languages. Familiarize yourself with local phrases, especially if English is not the primary language spoken.
• Health Precautions: Be cautious about food and water hygiene. Stick to bottled water, avoid consuming raw or undercooked seafood, and use insect repellent to guard against mosquito-borne illnesses.
• Sun Protection: The Caribbean sun can be intense. Pack sunscreen, a hat, and lightweight clothing to protect yourself from sunburn. Stay hydrated, especially in warmer months.
• Cash vs. Cards: While larger establishments accept credit cards, it's advisable to carry some cash for smaller businesses or markets. ATMs are available, but check for fees and notify your bank of your travel plans.