celebrity 10 day eastern caribbean cruise

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Celebrity Eastern Caribbean cruises from $429*

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Celebrity Cruises Eastern Caribbean Cruises

Relax and fill yourself with the serenity of the tropics on a cruise to the Eastern Caribbean with Celebrity Cruises. At each of these stupendous ports-of-call, the beach is the main attraction, a place where you and your family can enjoy some bonding over watersports or you can enjoy a superb golden tan. That being said, if you venture off of the shoreline for a bit, you’ll discover delightful native people, explore historic churches, and marvel at the beautiful natural scenery. Whether you spend the day shopping in an open-air market or hiking through the rainforest, your Eastern Caribbean cruise with Celebrity Cruises will be a memorable one.

Things to Do on an Eastern Caribbean Cruise with Celebrity Cruises

From the beautiful blue waters to the tops of mountains, the Eastern Caribbean offers a variety of excursions to put a smile on your face. You can meet a string ray, sample some rum and go golfing with the wind in your hair – all from the nearby luxury of your Celebrity cruise ship.

• Island History & Rum Tasting (Basseterre, St. Kitts) Basseterre is one of the Eastern Caribbean’s oldest towns, and its charm will draw you in as your enter the Fairview Great House and Botanical Garden. The French built the house originally in 1701, and it now serves as a place to sample the historic Caribbean rum.  

• Coastal Cruise of National Park Beaches to St. John (Charlotte Amalie, St. Thomas) Explore St. John on a private ferry, where you will see beautiful beaches, multimillion dollar villas and the gorgeous British Virgin Islands on the horizon. Scenic overlooks will continue to impress as you can see Cinnamon Bay, Maho Bay and the last working sugar cane plantation in St. John’s Annaberg Sugar Plantation.  

• Mahogany Run Golf Course (Charlotte Amalie, St. Thomas) Designed by two of the world’s best architects, George and Tom Fazio, the Mahogany Run Golf Course keeps the island’s beauty in mind. Photos of the landscape from the 18-hole course are a true keepsake for every golfer and tourist.  

• Gibbs Cay Beach & Stingray Encounter (Grand Turk, Turks & Caicos) The most interactive way to experience the island’s nature is by swimming with and handling the stingrays of Gibbs Cay. During your swim, your guides will show you a live conch and other colorful fish that surround the coral reef.  

• Fairview Greathouse and Beach (Basseterre, St. Kitts) Dating back to the 17th century, Basseterre shows off its fascinating history with the Great House, a preserved colonial-style mansion surrounded by a stunning tropical botanical garden. The Caribbean Sea, South-East Peninsula and the Island of Nevis are in full panoramic views from the master bedroom upstairs.  

• Mountain Top Downhill Trek (Philipsburg, St. Maarten) Ride up to the highest point in St. Maarten and hike back down, passing an old historic sugar plantation that was abandoned in the 1800s. Throughout the trek, learn about the folklore and the vegetation of the island of St. Maarten.  

Top 10 Celebrity Cruises Eastern Caribbean Cruises

• Celebrity Eclipse 7 NIGHT EASTERN CARIBBEAN CRUISE Departing From Fort Lauderdale (Port Everglades), Florida (Oct 2024)
• Celebrity Apex 6 NT JAMAICA, GRAND CAYMAN & PERFECT DAY Departing From Fort Lauderdale (Port Everglades), Florida (Nov 2024)
• Celebrity Beyond 6 NIGHT EASTERN CARIBBEAN CRUISE Departing From Fort Lauderdale (Port Everglades), Florida (Nov 2024)
• Celebrity Apex 7 NT ST. MAARTEN, SAN JUAN & PERFECT DAY Departing From Fort Lauderdale (Port Everglades), Florida (Nov 2024 - Nov 2024)
• Celebrity Eclipse 9 NIGHT EASTERN CARIBBEAN CRUISE Departing From Fort Lauderdale (Port Everglades), Florida (Nov 2024 - Feb 2025)
• Celebrity Ascent 7 NIGHT USVI & PUERTO PLATA CRUISE Departing From Fort Lauderdale (Port Everglades), Florida (Nov 2024 - Apr 2025)
• Celebrity Beyond 7 NT ST. MAARTEN USVI & PUERTO PLATA Departing From Fort Lauderdale (Port Everglades), Florida (Nov 2024)
• Celebrity Apex 7 NIGHT ST. KITTS AND TORTOLA Departing From Fort Lauderdale (Port Everglades), Florida (Nov 2024 - Feb 2025)
• Celebrity Apex 7 NIGHT EASTERN CARIBBEAN CRUISE Departing From Fort Lauderdale (Port Everglades), Florida (Dec 2024 - Mar 2025)
• Celebrity Equinox 7N ST. MAARTEN, SAN JUAN & PUERTO PLATA Departing From Port Canaveral, Florida (Dec 2024)

Celebrity Cruises Eastern Caribbean Departure Ports

Learn more about each of the possible departure ports for an Eastern Caribbean cruise with Celebrity Cruises. Your Celebrity Cruises Eastern Caribbean cruise could depart from any of the following cities:

With incredible weather, delicious fare and some stupendous attractions, you will find that Fort Lauderdale’s Port Everglades is one of the most attractive ports in the entire US.

In Miami, you’ll enjoy a small taste of the tropical weather many of you will experience during your cruise, and you’ll see why Miami is one of the most popular places to live in America.

The seafood is fresh, the sun is shining and there’s a whole lot to do, so get out there and explore the city before, during and after your cruise from Port Canaveral, Florida.

Photo Gallery for Celebrity Cruises Eastern Caribbean Cruises

Check out our photo gallery of Eastern Caribbean cruising photos from Celebrity Cruises. Keep in mind, this is just a sample of the sights waiting for you on a Celebrity Cruises Eastern Caribbean cruise vacation.

The view from a beach in Cococay

Charlotte Amalie town on St.Thomas Island, U.S.V.I

Panorama of the port of Basseterre St. Kitts

Resort beach at Basseterre on St. Kitts

Stingray gliding through the clear water

Sunset over Charlotte Amalie, St. Thomas

View of Philipsburg St. Martin from the sea

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Review of Celebrity Silhouette 10 Night Eastern Caribbean - March 13, 2023

By GotMINI , March 30, 2023 in Celebrity Cruises

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Here’s my review of the 6 ports we visited while on Celebrity Silhouette’s 10 day Eastern Caribbean sailing.   I like to do a lot of research before going to the various ports so my group knows what to expect.   Since COVID, I have found it difficult to find good information online, whether on Cruise Critic or various internet websites.   So much of it is outdated.   So, this is a record for me to remember our travels but also to hopefully help provide some helpful information to others who may be visiting these places.   We generally do not go on excursions and just search out a nice beach not too far from port.   We’d rather spend our time relaxing on a beach rather than traveling in a taxi around an island.   I’ll include some comments about Silhouette itself at the end.  

Island #1 - Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic :   Celebrity uses Taina Bay which is a relatively new port with pools, lazy river, restaurants, shops, etc.   It’s very nice.   When exiting the ship, there were free tuk tuks which could take you from the ship to the end of the pier.   It’s a short ride, but kind of fun.   It’s free, but we gave the guy a $2 tip for the 3 of us.   You then need to walk through the duty free shop to get you into the port area.   We casually walked all the way through to the end to get out and then continued to walk into town.   There are a lot of vendors and taxi guides trying to sell rides to wherever you may want to go.   There are also plenty of city guides to answer questions.   They will walk with you if you want.   It’s “free" with the expectation of receiving tips.   We went on our own into town but did have to continually ask for directions as we were trying to get to the Umbrella and Pink Streets without getting lost.   It wasn’t a far walk, maybe 10 minutes.   There are plenty of officers on the streets too to help direct traffic (pedestrians seem to have right of way crossing streets) and I’m sure for safety; although I never did feel unsafe, but that may have been because of the officers.   After seeing the 2 streets, there were a bunch of taxis lined up nearby along street by the town square.   I have a feeling these were cheaper than what we would have paid if we took a taxi right from the end of the port, but cannot say for sure.   The taxi cost us $5/pp each way - we gave him $20 with tip for the 3 of us.   Our driver didn’t really speak English, but he understood beach.   He took us to Playa Dorado, which was about 20 min away.   We had researched a number of beaches along this coast, but were unsure what kind of amenities they’d have or if would be populated, safe, etc.   So, Playa Dorado was a good choice for our 1st time here given its popularity.   We made plans with the taxi driver to pick us up at a specified time and he brought us back to the port for the same fare of $5/pp.   At the beach, there are workers to bring you to your chairs and they’ll make sure you are set up ok.   You can order food/drinks from them which are served from restaurants in that area on the beach.   It cost us $20 for 3 chairs and an umbrella.   We did not eat any food at the restaurant nearby, but it looked good.   All food was brought out to you covered/wrapped in plastic wrap.   If you are having meal, they’d even bring out a table and chairs for you for comfortable dining.   Beer brought out in a paper bag with a cover over the top of the bottle - maybe to absorb moisture? There were a lot of vendors on the beach selling jewelry, t-shirts, hair braiding, ice cream, nuts, etc.   You can look or just tell them no thank you and they will walk on.   On our ride back to port I wrote down few of the beaches we saw:   Long Beach, Cosita Rica (with Swanks restaurant), and Aculpuco.   I think next time here, we might check out Cosita Rica, but I would still recommend Play Dorado.  

Island #2 - San Juan, Puerto Rico:   today was my mom’s birthday and our plan was just to go to a favorite restaurant called Choco Bar.   We had read about it before a prior cruise and went to it the last time we were in PR.   If you like chocolate, and especially chocolate martinis - this place is for you!   It was a short walk from the pier in Old San Juan area.   On the way back to the pier, we walked by Umbrella Street, Pigeon Park and the fort area.    

Island #3 - St Croix:   Walked off the pier and to the right.   Along the water there is a concrete path which we took to the end and then kept walking.   The Fred resort is on the right side of the street, and just past The Fred is Louie & Nacho Beach Bar & Turtles Deli & BBQ.   The restaurants both looked nice, but it was early - they open at 11am and it was barely 10am when we were walking by.   We kept walking along the coast for a bit, then eventually turned around and went back to The Fred, and so glad we stopped in!   I would definitely recommend this place.   This is a hotel with a pool, hot tub, bar, etc.   But they also sell day passes - $40/couple or $30/pp, or you can just go into the bar area for free, which is what we ended up doing.   While the pool looked extremely inviting, the weather wasn’t great, so we grabbed a table by the bar with a beautiful view overlooking the water and to our right was our cruise ship.   It was so nice and relaxing to just stay there.   We had 3 beers, 1 cocktail and a ceviche with chips and cost was $47.   Not cheap, but hey, we were on vacation, and we didn’t pay to get in for beach chairs.   Noticed other cruisers stopped by here too.   On our return I noticed there was a free dock shuttle in big Sprinter vans between the ship and end of pier.   By the way, last year, we went to Rainbow Beach by Rhythms Beach Bar.   March 2022 it cost us $55/pp/each way for cab and $40 for 2 chairs and 1 umbrella on a very crowded beach.   Personally not a fan of Rainbow Beach, but realize it is popular amongst cruisers.  

Island #4 - Antigua:   You’ll notice licensed people in yellow shirts when you arrive just outside the gate to get you a taxi or tour.   Cost us $5/pp each way to Dickerson and it was about a 10 min drive.   It may have been quicker, although a bridge was out and construction on main road, so we went more scenic driving.   The taxis will make you wait until they (try to) fill up the vehicle.   We got off ship a little after the crowd and they did make us wait for few minutes, but eventually I think they realized we wouldn’t get anyone else so let us go just the 3 of us.   They did tell us that on this day the Atlantic side (Dickenson) was more rough and there’d be seaweed vs the Caribbean side (Jolly) which would be calmer.   We had been to Jolly last time in Antigua, which was very nice; however it was a long drive and I’d rather spend 20 min in taxi vs 1hr30 min roundtrip, so this year we decided to try Dickenson.   A worker, Jason, met us at our taxi and kindly escorted us to the beach and to his section.   He had a good location, just next to the restaurant and almost in front of Sandals resort; we didn’t have to walk far to the restaurant to use the bathroom. We could sit anywhere we liked and he arranged the chairs/umbrellas for us.   The restaurant had wifi but you needed to get food/drink which we did not.   Or Jason said we could purchase wifi $3/each or $5 for the 3 of us.   We didn’t as we wanted time away from our devices….   It was $10/ea for chairs or umbrella, which we got 3 chairs and 2 umbrellas for $50.   Nice new lounge chairs.   There’s a floating beach bar out in the water off to the left of where we were, but we never did get to.   Jason said he could call a free water taxi over for us or we could walk closer down beach and wave one down.   Maybe during our next visit to Dickenson.   It was a windy day yes, and there was some seaweed in the water, but it was not much at all. I’m glad we didn’t listen to the original taxi person and go back to Jolly.   Dickenson was beautiful.   There were plenty of vendors walking around selling t-shirts, jewelry, fresh coconut, fresh aloe plant, etc.   You can look or just kindly say no thank you and they’ll walk on by.   Be sure to check out the red phone booths on the beach.   I didn’t check but fairly certain they are not functional, but make for a cool picture.   Would recommend Dickenson.    

Island #5 - St Kitts:   This was our 3rd time cruising to St Kitts and our 3rd time at Carombola Beach Club.   Has yet to disappoint.   It’s on the Caribbean side, so calmer than the Atlantic side.   You can show up and take your pick of chair locations, or you can make a reservation in advance, and you’ll be given priority location (closer to the water).   This place can get crowded so we’ve always made reservations (see their website) in advance; however our ship typically docks early so we get here early and getting a good spot has yet to be an issue for us.     Taxi to Carambola is $28/each way or if you can fill a vehicle it’s $7pp.   You make arrangements with the driver and they will come back for pickup.   This year we got Craig James (1-869-665-1140) and he was awesome!   Very nice.   Experienced.   Already planning to call him next time we cruise to St Kitts and highly recommend him to anyone looking for taxi driver.   I find the taxi drivers and tour operators at this port a little assertive so it’s nice to have someone there waiting on you and not having to deal with them.   Craig gave us paper wristbands when we arrived with his number on it in case we needed to reach him for any changes.   He showed up right on time so it wasn’t necessary in our case.   Typically the taxi drivers stop at Timothy Hill on the way to Carambola, but since we’ve been before, we typically ask to bypass it.   It does have a phenomenal view but then there are vendors with monkeys trying to sell you pictures or items, and we are not interested.   But if you haven’t been there and your taxi makes a stop, be sure to get out and take in the beautiful view.   At Carambola, it’s $10/each for chairs and umbrellas.   While there, we typically walk down the beach to Shipwreck Beach Bar.   It is a shack of a place with some very old beach chairs in front (free to use if you visit Shipwreck), but love the localness of it.   Good for a few beers/cocktails and maybe some food if you are so inclined.   Carib beers are only $3ea.   You can/should write on the wood all around the bar with Sharpies (they can provide) - and we’ve done that each of the 3 times there.   This location used to be a black sand beach, however I noticed this year it wasn’t so black anymore.  

Island #6 - St Maarten:   We took the water taxi to town of Great Bay Beach.   It costs $7 roundtrip or $5 one-way.   Cash only.   I had read online that it makes 3 stops, but when we were there it was only going in/out of 1.   Not sure if something changed or maybe I read about it wrong.   The water taxi seemed to run about every 15 minutes.   Once off the water taxi we walked to the right and to Holland House.   Cost was $25 for 2 chairs, 1 umbrella, wifi, showers, facilities, & 4 drinks.   Soft drinks, water & beer count as 1, and alcohol counts as 2.   The lounge chairs were very nice with thick cushions.   Facilities were just inside the hotel and nice and clean.   There were 2 bars, one inside hotel lobby and one on sidewalk for the beach, and a restaurant.   You pay for the day pass at the beach bar.   Day passes can sell out if they have a lot of guests using their beach area.   The shower is there too, but we didn’t use it.   There are many vendors walking around selling t-shirts, hats, massages, etc.   Polite no thank you works to keep them moving along.   There were plenty of other places along the beach to sit.   When we got off the water taxi, we were quickly approached and he was offering same deal but for worn out loungers next to pier.   I’m glad we kept walking.   Would recommend Holland House and use again in future.    

Regarding the Silhouette ship itself: it was wonderful!   There were about 1300 crew onboard and I believe we were close to capacity so maybe 2800 guests.   We meant to ask but forgot to.     We had Captain George and Cruise Director Dave - both great.   Actually all the staff on this ship were amazing, from those you’d have direct contact with to those behind the scenes.   No complaints, at least not from my party or anyone we interacted with.   This ship had gone through a recent refurbishment and it was in top shape.   We had previously been on the Reflection and Equinox, also Solstice ships.   It was nice being familiar with the ship layout once onboard.   You could tell this ship was “refreshed” with new paint, carpet, artwork, etc.   There were some other changes we noted such as new seating in the Sky Lounge.   There were a lot of rocking chairs all along the front windows, which I guess was nice; however they were so packed together that it was difficult to get in/out.   And actually, I preferred the loungers they had there before (great place to watch the water and sneak in little nap).   I did like the addition of sun lounge chairs on the deck in front of the fitness center.   Felt like not too many people knew of this space and it was generally quiet.   I liked the additional seating area by the Sunset Bar (that used to be part of the Lawn).   On past Solstice sailings, there were double rows of chairs along the sides of the pools.   On this ship, they only had a single row facing the pool.   Before it was difficult to get in/out of the chairs unless you were willing to climb in from the base where the feet would be.   It did make the deck seem less crowded.   Unfortunately, the chair hogs snag them up pretty early, especially on Sea Days.   We’d often see a beverage cart circulating around the pool deck offering beer & soft drinks, which was nice so you wouldn’t always have to get up and go to the bar if that’s what you might want to drink.   I’ve seen many inquire about showtimes - and on our sailing they are 7pm & 9pm nightly.   There was aways a gameshow 8pm nightly too.   Due to someone in my party being Elite status, we had access to a free 45 min Behind the Scenes tour of the theater with the performers.   It was very interesting and recommend attending if you have the opportunity.     We booked our sailing while onboard for February 2024 on the Beyond.   Going to try a new class and we are excited to explore some new ports.    

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Nice detailed summary.. thanks for posting!

Some of our fav ports..

Great review! Totally agree with everything you said. It was a great cruise and we also booked the Beyond for February 2024 and the Apex for May 2024.

thank you for the detailed review!

@cruiserone  We are on Beyond Feb 19th.  You?

Very helpful summary. Thanks so much for sharing your research and experiences with us! Silhouette is one of my favorite ships. I’m happy to hear she’s still in great shape.

Thanks very much for posting, excellent information, we are sailing on B2B on Silhouette departing 6th April, and visiting these ports, so we will definitely check out some of the venues you visited.

10 hours ago, GotMINI said: @cruiserone  We are on Beyond Feb 19th.  You?

16 minutes ago, cruiserone said:

I took that same photo of the sister ships in port together.   See you 2/19/24!   If you haven’t already signed up, there’s a FB group for our sailing.   😊

Thank you for the great review.

We were on her for the 2/27-3/9 sailing. Yes, there were a few things different from our previous cruises on the Silhouette. No complaints!  We had a great time and enjoyed the ship and the ports. Thanks for your review. 

Thanks for the review summary. Made me wish that we had left the port area in Puerto Plata. I also didn’t realize that there was a spot in front of the gym that was quiet and where I could have taken some photos.   

1 hour ago, Marvy Mare said: Thanks for the review summary. Made me wish that we had left the port area in Puerto Plata. I also didn’t realize that there was a spot in front of the gym that was quiet and where I could have taken some photos.    Maris

Great view of water (and ports) from front of ship in front of fitness area!   No obstructions.   Similar to view from Sky Lounge without the glass.   Great place to work on your tan too.   😎

34 minutes ago, GotMINI said: Great view of water (and ports) from front of ship in front of fitness area!   No obstructions.   Similar to view from Sky Lounge without the glass.   Great place to work on your tan too.   😎

I’ll be there next time. 😂  

raudacruise

Thanks for your review. I took notes.

On 3/30/2023 at 9:00 PM, GotMINI said: @cruiserone  We are on Beyond Feb 19th.  You?

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Caribbean (Eastern)

Almost as popular as the Western Caribbean, the Eastern Caribbean has a unique atmosphere all its own. Well-known for its scenic destinations, charming architecture and great shopping, this cruise region appeals to those looking for quaint towns, beautiful beaches and great water sports.

Most Eastern Caribbean cruises depart from sunny port cities in Florida, and a few leave from cities along the East Coast of the U.S., including New York, Philadelphia and Baltimore, although cruises from these departure cities are seasonal and usually last longer than the standard 7-night voyages. Depending on distance, most cruises to this region include a few days at sea at the beginning and end of a voyage with several back-to-back stops in between.

Ports commonly found on Eastern Caribbean itineraries include St. Maarten, St. Thomas, San Juan in Puerto Rico and Grand Turk in the Turks and Caicos, as well the Dominican Republic, Nassau in the Bahamas and sometimes Key West, FL. Occasionally, the Southern Caribbean ports of St. Kitts and Antigua are included on Eastern Caribbean itineraries as well.

Walk the cobblestone streets in Old San Juan or spend a day browsing the duty-free stores of St. Thomas. Play a round of golf at Mullet Bay in St. Maarten or explore the small island of Grand Turk, a newer port on many Eastern Caribbean itineraries. Many cruise lines own private islands nearby and schedule stops so guests can enjoy resort-style beaches, barbecue and all sorts of water activities.

• The Eastern Caribbean is blessed with continuously balmy, pleasant weather, making it a year-round cruising destination.
• Eastern Caribbean cruises last 4 to 14 nights.
• Many ships will alternate 7-night eastern and western itineraries, giving passengers the option of purchasing two back-to-back cruises and remaining on one ship for a 14-night sailing.
• Caribbean cruises are particularly kid-friendly, making them ideal for family getaways. Most ships have children's programs, youth counselors and children's activity centers.

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Eastern caribbean cruises.

Chill out with some rum punch after an adventure-filled day with a cruise to the Eastern Caribbean.

Leave your troubles behind and get on island time with a cruise to Eastern Caribbean. Hike through dense jungle and pass by thunderous waterfalls in Puerto Rico's El Yunque National Forest, or take on the longest zip-line in the world over water in Labadee, Haiti. Dive into the crystal-clear waters of St. Maarten and go for a snorkel or swim with dolphins at Blue Lagoon Island in the Bahamas. Grab your eye patch and set sail on a schooner to Buck Island before dropping anchor at Turtle Bay, where you can learn about the pirate history of St. Thomas. Discover the magic with an Eastern Caribbean cruise.

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Explore more while spending less with Eastern Caribbean cruise deals onboard our best cruise ships

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Whether your idea of adventure is historical or adrenaline-pumping, the best Eastern Caribbean cruises something that will light up your senses during your vacation. Explore the colonial past of the region's vibrant cities, or take a trek through dense rainforests full of singing tree frogs and exotic parrots.

TIME TELLS ALL

Explore the area in style. Hop on the St. Kitts Scenic Railway and be transported back in time as you visit the old sugar plantation. Wander down the cobblestone streets of San Juan and admire the colonial houses of the old town. Or visit Blackbeard's Castle in St. Thomas and learn all about the pirates who once came there.

REACH FOR THE SKY

The Eastern Caribbean is home to some of the best zip-lining courses in the world, and adrenaline lovers will have more than one chance to soar through the sky. Fly high over the rain forest canopy at Toro Verde Ecological Adventure Park in Puerto Rico, or rise to the challenge of the longest zip-line over water in Labadee, which is one of the main attractions on the island.

HIKES AND HEIGHTS

Cruises to the Caribbean are full of adventure and things to do. Jetboat or parasail over the sea in Labadee. Hike to the steaming rim of Mount Liamuiga volcano in St. Kitts and Nevis, or hike through a former sugar plantation turned eco-reserve at Loterie Farm in St. Maarten.

MUCH TO DO ABOUT NOTHING

Set sail on a Eastern Caribbean cruise to slow down your sense of time and soak in it’s relaxing beaches and vibrant streets. With the warm, coral-filled waters lapping at your feet or lazing in a beachside cabana, you'll be on island time before you know it.

BORN TO BE WILD

Enjoy your Caribbean vacation the way you want to. Dive into the turquoise sea off Nassau in the Bahamas, where you can get up close and personal with vibrant coral reefs and beautiful parrot fish or get in touch with your daring side and hang out with sharks and barracudas. Come face to face with monkeys in El Yunque, or see mongoose, sheep and goats in St. Kitts.

YOU'VE GOT THIS IN THE BAG

Treat yourself to some retail therapy on your Eastern Caribbean cruise. Browse the duty-free shops and markets on Front Street in Philipsburg, St. Maarten. Window-shop for traditional Taino arts and crafts like straw hats in Nassau, Bahamas. Visit the Caribbean to peruse upscale fashions at the Port Zante Mall in St. Kitts.

LET YOUR STRESS BE SWEPT AWAY

Kick back, relax and listen to the calming sounds of the ocean while the soothing tones of the steel drum fill the air. Sip on a Bahama-mama or mojito as your toes glide through the white sand of picture-perfect spots like Junkanoo Beach in the Bahamas or Condado Beach in San Juan.

Best Eastern Caribbean Cruises

A cruise to Eastern Caribbean is filled with exciting destinations, each with its own style and vibe. Discover the Eastern Caribbean onboard the Best Royal Caribbean Cruise Ships.

SHORT AND EASY

Cruises to the Caribbean are perfect for a quick weekend getaway. Soak up the sun for a few days and use the time to relax and recharge. Head to Nassau, Bahamas, to explore 18th-century Fort Fincastle and wade into the turquoise waters with a mojito in hand at Paradise Island.

Mix and Match

The Eastern Caribbean lets you pair the opportunity to jump into adventure head-first with relaxing afternoons when you can tune out the world and relax on the white sand beaches. Adrenaline junkies can hike volcanoes in St. Kitts, dive coral reefs in the Bahamas, horseback ride through the jungle in Puerto Rico, or catch some rays in Labadee before shopping till you drop in St. Thomas.

WHAT TO KNOW BEFORE YOU GO Eastern Caribbean Cruises Insider

The sun shines on the Caribbean daily for most of the year, with the best weather December-April. Hop on a cruise during school breaks to go on a family adventure, or choose an off-season cruise August-October for a quieter experience. It's nice to soak in some solitude with waves lapping at your feet.

The sapphire-colored waters of the Eastern Caribbean will draw you into bubbling biodiversity beneath the surface. Come face-to-face with manta rays, sea turtles and dolphins on your journey to the deep. The spring and summer months see the most activity from these majestic sea creatures.

In addition to having lots of cruise options out of Orlando , Fort Lauderdale and Miami , there are Eastern Caribbean itineraries from New Jersey’s Cape Liberty . A great option for snowbirds and travelers looking to escape winter for sunshine and warm weather.

Caribbean Beaches

Caribbean Wildlife Encounters

Top 10 Things To Do: Caribbean Islands

Your Caribbean cruise will take you to some of the lushest forests in the region. Make sure to pack some bug spray.

In addition to coral-safe sunscreen, pack a few swim shirts or tropical skirts to keep you comfortably covered from the sun.

Respect the marine life: If you see dolphins and sea turtles out and about during the day, just admire them and leave them be.

LOCAL CUISINE IN-FUSION-ED WITH FLAVOR

The cuisine of the Eastern Caribbean is shaped by the fresh seafood and shellfish pulled from the region's pristine waters. Blend that with a taste for richness expressed through coconut-based desserts and hearty plantain side dishes, and you've got an approach to food that checks all the boxes for the pleasure-seeking palate.

CRAZY ABOUT CONCH

Whether your taste buds prefer fried food or something fresh, conch is the go-to in the Caribbean. Snack on some conch fritters with a delicious dipping sauce or indulge in conch salad, which is usually prepared with raw conch, bell peppers, onion, tomato and a sweet dressing.

CRIOLLO CLASSICS

Satisfy your craving for something delicious with some mofongo, green plantains that are fried first and then mashed up with meat. Finish off a meal with a freshly made coconut flan in Puerto Rico, and enjoy it as the sweet custard melts in your mouth.

PACK A PUNCH

The Bahama Mama, Painkiller, Rum Runner, Mojito, Mai Tai and Rum Punch all have one thing in common — they're incredibly refreshing on a hot Caribbean day. Oh, and they're made with rum. Sip on a rum cocktail while soaking up the sun on a white sand beach and watch as your troubles melt away.

RELATED PORTS

Fly through the trees on a zipline in Puerto Rico, or go snorkeling among the coral reefs off Labadee, Haiti. If you're looking to relax a bit more, dip your toes into the white sand in St. Maarten before jumping into the crystal clear Caribbean Sea. Even history buffs can get their fill and learn about the past of pirates in Charlotte Amalie in St. Thomas. Or go shopping in the Bahamas before grabbing a cocktail to sip by the water when you arrive at your favorite Eastern Caribbean cruise port.

St. Croix, U.S. Virgin Islands

Labadee, Haiti

Philipsburg, St. Maarten

Basseterre, St. Kitts & Nevis

Charlotte Amalie, St. Thomas

Punta Cana, Dominican Republic

Tortola, British Virgin Islands

Virgin Gorda, British Virgin Islands

Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic

La Romana, Dominican Republic

Grand Turk, Turks & Caicos

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10-DAY CARIBBEAN CRUISES

Because island time deserves more time

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There’s no better place to relax than in the Caribbean islands. With a 10-day cruise to the Caribbean, you’ll have more time to sink into island time. More beach time. More snorkel time. More listening to music time. More local dining time.

On our 10-day Caribbean cruises, you’ll visit gorgeous islands like Aruba, Bonaire, and Curaçao while you immerse yourself in luxury while on board. Embark on one of our award-winning cruise ships and experience elevated dining options, luxurious spa services, modern staterooms, and exciting entertainment options. Unwind on a long, leisurely vacation through the tropical islands of the Caribbean with Celebrity Cruises.

Itineraries

Departure ports for 10-day caribbean cruises, fort lauderdale.

Your starting point for a 10-day Caribbean cruise is Port Everglades, one of the largest cruise ports in the world. Arrive a few days early or stay a little later and enjoy world-class dining and shopping on Las Olas Boulevard. Take an exhilarating airboat ride through the one-of-a-kind Everglades and see alligators, herons, and soaring eagles. Bring the family to the Museum of Science and Discovery, and lounge on Fort Lauderdale’s expansive white-sand beaches.

One of the most diverse and vibrant cities in the world is home to Port Miami, where you’ll begin your 10-day Caribbean cruise. Allow a few days before or after to explore all that the Magic City has to offer. Relax on the sands of South Beach, lined with iconic, pastel-colored Art Deco buildings and hotels. Visit Calle Ocho for authentic Cuban cuisine, streetside domino games, and a bit of salsa dancing. Marvel at the impressive street art in Wynwood. Stroll around Vizcaya Museum and Gardens on Biscayne Bay, built in the early 20th century with an ornate villa, formal gardens, and a spectacular swimming pool grotto.

Your 10-day Caribbean cruise departs from Port Tampa Bay on the Gulf Coast.  Visit historic Ybor City, where you can enjoy Cuban sandwiches, microbrewed beer, and cigars. Art lovers can head to the nearby Dali museum in St. Pete, where the largest collection of the surrealist’s works outside of Europe resides. Tampa has several magnificent stadiums where sports fans can take in a baseball, hockey, or football game.

Featured Destinations

Abc islands.

From white-sand beaches and azure waters to spectacular diving and exotic animal encounters, the islands of Aruba, Bonaire, and Curaçao boast something for every sun-lover. Unwind on Aruba’s Eagle Beach, with its soft white sand, crystal clear water, and the supremely photogenic divi tree. Explore the diver’s paradise of Bonaire, which features 85 incredible sites. Experience Curaçao, a tropical version of Amsterdam, with colorful buildings and the floating Queen Emma Bridge which offers a fantastic view of the historic harbor.

One of the Caribbean’s brightest gems, the dual-island country of St. Kitts and Nevis has it all. Here, you’ll find an impressive history, exotic rainforests, soft sand beaches, and a dormant volcano. Explore Nevis, the birthplace of Alexander Hamilton, on a day trip across The Narrows. Skirt the coast of St. Kitts in a catamaran, then cool off with a snorkel adventure in the ocean. Hike through the rainforest to the volcano, then hike up for sensational views of the rocky coastline.

Antigua’s charms include picturesque colonial buildings, coffee plantations, stunning beaches, and three volcanoes. Immerse yourself in island life and culture with a tour of local estates, artists’ homes, and farms. Indulge in a thrilling catamaran sail across the ocean, complete with a wonderful sit-down lobster lunch and access to an open bar. Enjoy a horseback ride down a beautiful beach. Step back in time on a historic walking tour of the island.

Though Barbados is known for its picture-perfect beaches and turquoise waters, it also has a wild side—a rocky coastline with crashing waves, the oldest rum distillery in the world (built in 1703), and gorgeous gardens everywhere. British influences are abundant. Kids love seeing the protected green monkeys at the Barbados Wildlife Preserve. Bridgetown, the capital, is historic and colorful with a laid-back vibe and plenty of shops and boutiques to find mementos.

On the island of St. Croix, there are numerous beaches where you can relax. For the more adventurous, head to Coakley Bay Beach or Cane Bay Beach for snorkeling and diving. The food scene on St. Croix is a scrumptious mix of Cajun and Caribbean cuisines and never disappoints. Make time to tour a rum distillery, or head to Sandy Point Wildlife Refuge or Buck Island Reef National Park. Nature lovers will be in their element here.

Just 27 miles long and 14 miles wide, this Caribbean island has a wealth of natural wonders and unrivaled splendor. Its volcanic origins have resulted in incredibly lush vegetation and awe-inspiring scenery. Whether you want to lounge on a powdery sand  beach, hike to the top of a volcano, or zip line through the jungle, St. Lucia has you covered. The cuisine here is divine, with a blend of Creole and Caribbean. Soufriere, in the south, offers plantation tours, hidden beaches, and spectacular views of the iconic Pitons.

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Eastern Caribbean cruises are everything you see when you close your eyes and picture paradise. An almost perfectly scattered arc of islands, ringing sparkling tropical waters — this is what awaits you on cruises to the Eastern Caribbean . For a taste of the local flavor you can expect to enjoy on Eastern Caribbean cruises, check out a sampling of this delicious island menu: Martinique, La Romana, San Juan… plus saints aplenty: St. Thomas, St. Kitts, St. Lucia and St. Maarten... With a lineup like that, it’s hard to imagine a better way to spend your precious vacation days than on one of our cruises to the Eastern Caribbean. Go on, take a look at a few more of those turquoise-water-filled photos. Isn’t it time you booked your Carnival cruise to the Eastern Caribbean?

• Tour local rum distilleries… and, most importantly, taste-test the goods.
• Pay your respects to real-life saints — St. Thomas, St. Maarten and St. Lucia, among others.
• Hang out with marine life, and enjoy the beach life, where the sand meets the surf.

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Eastern Caribbean Cruises

Beaches, azure waters — what comes to mind when you think of cruises to the caribbean.

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Picture the Caribbean. Soft sandy beaches, warm winds blowing through palm trees and crystal-clear waters stretching as far as the eye can see. That’s the Eastern Caribbean cruise experience. Enjoy the calm waters around the islands, and snorkel, swim and sail your way through engaging activities. Relax on world-famous beaches, cool drink in hand, for a day of rejuvenation topped off by luxurious shopping. Dive in; the Caribbean is waiting.

Featured Ports Eastern Caribbean Cruise Ports

Get an overview of some of the Eastern Caribbean’s top islands (plus our main departure port).

• Princess Cays®
• St. Maarten
• Ft. Lauderdale

With a half mile of white-sand shoreline and 40 acres of relaxation, shopping and picturesque beaches, Princess Cays is one of the best private Eastern Caribbean cruise line ports in the world. Relax in a private cabana, dive into the dozens of available water activities, explore the gorgeous back roads of Eleuthera in a dune buggy, or indulge in shopping from local craftspeople.

St. Kitts and the neighboring island of Nevis were once considered the crown jewels of the Caribbean, and it's easy to see why. Green hillsides, fields of sugarcane and dramatic volcanoes rise into the strikingly blue sky. With it's beautifully restored colonial buildings, imposing Brimstone Hill Fortress and museum of Alexander Hamilton at his birthplace, the history lovers will have plenty to explore after relaxing on the beautiful beaches on a cruise to St. Kitts.

Two islands in one, St. Maarten is split between France and the Netherlands, but comes together as one memorable experience. From the Dutch-inspired port of Philipsburg with its historic colonial architecture and warm beaches, to the French hub of Marigot full of designer boutiques and bistros, a cruise to St. Maarten has something for you.

Cruise to St. Thomas, an American paradise that contains everything alluring about the Caribbean: sparkling sands, pirate history, snorkeling adventures among coral reefs, shipwreck dives and relaxation taken to the next level with rum punch and island music.

The "Venice of America" has been the premier destination for spring breakers for almost six decades, but don't let that fool you into thinking the city is one big party. From the Everglades, a UNESCO World Heritage Site home to an amazingly rich biosphere, to seven miles of white-sand beaches, Ft. Lauderdale is a beautifully diverse city.

Top-Rated Caribbean Beaches

Trunk bay, st. john.

Named one of  Conde Nast Traveler's  Seven Cruise Wonders of the World, Trunk Bay is stunning beyond words. Snorkel along an underwater coral reef trail, swim through warm clear waters, and lounge on the white sands while looking out on a vista that can only be described as tropical perfection.

Orient Beach & Little Bay Beach, St. Maarten

Two beaches, both with soft sand, warm water and refreshing breezes, make for the perfect day by the ocean. Snorkel with sea life, paddle through the azure waters, or relax on the beach.

Magens Bay, St. Thomas

One of the top 10 beaches in the world according to  National Geographic  magazine, Magens Bay, is known for its picturesque beauty and deep, sheltered bay with calm waters. With a white-sand beach that stretches for three quarters of a mile and gentle waves, you can relax, swim and explore with ease.

What Will You Do on an Eastern Caribbean Cruise?

Get a taste of what life is like in the (is)land of beach beauty and what you can anticipate experiencing here.

Island shore excursions

Experience the best the Eastern Caribbean has to offer with award-winning shore excursions that immerse you in thrilling experiences, unique culinary delights and peaceful rejuvenation. Sail on a tall ship at sunset, snorkel with vibrant sea life through teeming reefs, and explore old shipwrecks near the picturesque coastlines.

Late night departures

The Caribbean has a different feeling at night. Revel in its warm evenings and enticing music with our More Ashore program. Later stays in ports such as St. Thomas and Barbados let you soak up the full Caribbean experience, like a fresh-caught seafood dinner on the beach or street fair full of local crafts and flavors. With More Ashore, you get more time to enjoy the vibrant island nightlife.

Caribbean Cruise Onboard Experience Featured Program

With award-winning onboard programs, regional cuisine from world-class chefs and celebrations of Caribbean life, Princess makes your ship a destination all its own.

Comfortable accommodations

Your stateroom is your home away from home on your voyage where you rest up and recharge between adventures. With the expertly designed Princess Luxury Bed, luxurious 100% Jacquard-woven cotton linens and specially created SLEEP program by a board-certified sleep expert, you might just get the best sleep of your life. We offer staterooms ranging from interior cabins to full suites, and we even offer connected rooms for families with more than four members traveling together.

Bringing local life aboard

Embrace the spirit of the islands the moment you step on your ship with our Rhythm of the Caribbean program. Savor island cuisine, sip signature cocktails and engage in authentic regional experiences. Dance beneath the stars to vibrant island rhythms at exclusive parties, and immerse yourself in one-of-a-kind cultural activities — from concerts and crafts to talks from shark experts and treasure hunters.

Never miss a beat

Say goodbye to the daily grind with our new Sail Away Party poolside on the top deck, dance to local music at one of the many Caribbean inspired concerts, or be the envy of every pirate at our high-energy gold treasure-inspired Terrace Pool Gold Party. Throughout your cruise to the Caribbean there will be events that excite, enrich and challenge you to fully experience the islands.

Deeper experiences of the islands

Discover the history of local distilleries while sampling some of the region’s best rums, meet the parrots and macaws that call the Caribbean home in the ship's Piazza, or become a part of the rhythm with steel pan drum lessons. Our onboard activities give you the chance to gain a deeper connection and understanding of the gorgeous islands you'll visit on your voyage.

Discovery at Sea

Sharks, pirates and stars — oh my!

Discovery at SEA brings the expertise and excitement of the Discovery Channel™ on board your Caribbean cruise! Enjoy Shark Week all summer long with shark-themed activities, hear tales of sunken treasure and lost shipwrecks from the stars of Travel Channel’s™ Caribbean Pirate Treasure, and explore the constellations and spectacular galaxies of the night sky with the Voyage to the Stars indoor planetarium experience.

Ship Activities for Every Cruise to the Caribbean

Recharging your batteries.

Pamper yourself in the Lotus Spa® with a massage, facial or manicure, and feel renewed. Enjoy The Sanctuary, a lounge just for adults, where you can relax with a light meal, specialty drink and al fresco massages while digging into that novel you've been looking forward to reading. If you prefer your relaxation more active, we offer Zumba, yoga and tai chi classes to burn off stress and raise your heart rate.

Celebrations

The perfect place to celebrate

Almost 30% of all passengers who sail with us are celebrating an important milestone in their lives. Say "I do" at sea in a ceremony officiated by the captain. Arrange for an anniversary package and let us spoil you with romantic balcony dining, chocolates and more. For us, every day is a celebration.

Love blooms on the Love Boat

It's difficult to imagine something more romantic than sailing through the warm waters of the Caribbean, hopping between tropical islands and white-sand beaches from the comfortable luxury of your ship. While on board we cater to your romantic side with private dining on your balcony, whether a relaxing breakfast for two or a romantic sunset dinner, honeymoon packages for lucky newlyweds, flowers and chocolates delivered to your room and couples-only massages in the Sanctuary.

Food & Drinks

The flavors of the islands

The diverse cultural influences, local climates and history of the Caribbean combine to make one of the most exciting and unique regional cuisines in the world. From mofongo, a dish from Puerto Rico made from mashed fried plantains, pork and garlic, to the famous jerk chicken of Jamaica, we serve the Caribbean's favorite flavors to you on board. Thanks to Princess' world-class chefs you'll enjoy fresh, locally inspired dishes for your entire voyage.

Movies Under the Stars®

Outdoor cinema at its best

Enjoy many of the latest movies, exciting concerts and most anticipated live sports games on a massive poolside screen. The warm Caribbean night air, fresh popcorn and comfortable lounge chair with fleece blanket make for a viewing experience like no other. Not to mention the best theater in the world, the Caribbean ocean with a ceiling of stars!

Sailing with your crew

Enjoy a ship full of activities for the whole family, from Broadway-style shows to Discovery’s Shark Week all summer long, your family will be engaged in the Caribbean. Go Stargazing under the stunning expanse of the night sky with Discovery at SEA, compete in a family game night, and savor the flavors of the islands together.

Caribbean Cruise Articles and Videos

Read about colorful cultures, breathtaking landscapes, must-see attractions and preparation advice for cruising the Caribbean.

2024-2025 Caribbean Cruises

There’s no better way to truly experience the laid-back Caribbean than with Princess.

Caribbean Cruise Weather by Month

From radiant sunshine to turquoise waters, enjoy the best Caribbean cruise weather all year round when you sail to these tropical lands with Princess.

Top Five Caribbean Cruise Destinations

Whether you’re a history-lover, adventure-seeker or laid-back traveler, discover the best Caribbean cruise destinations for any guest with Princess.

Best Caribbean Cruises

Visit the best Caribbean cruise destinations with Princess and relax on white-sand beaches or embark on adventure that will leave a lasting impression.

Top Things to Do in Grand Cayman

From relaxing on the shores of Seven Mile Beach to feeding majestic sea creatures at Stingray City, discover the top things to do in Grand Cayman with Princess.

Best Time for a Caribbean Cruise

Discover the best time for a Caribbean cruise. From the offseason to the sunniest months to festival season, anytime is the best time to travel to the Caribbean.

Travel, Airfare, & Hotels: Let Princess Get You There

Princess EZair® Flights

Stress-free airfare

Remove the hassle from air travel and give yourself the gift of flexibility, time, and a thicker wallet with Princess EZair flights. We negotiate lower rates with the airlines, allow you to modify your flight up to 45 days prior with no penalty, and protect you if your flight is late or canceled.

EZair flight quotes are available on our cruise search result details pages.

Airplane to Ship Transfer

We get you where you need to go

Let Princess pick you up from the airport and take you directly to your ship or hotel when you arrive, even if you didn't book your airfare through us. A uniformed Princess representative meets you at the airport after you've retrieved your luggage and transports you directly to your ship or hotel without you having to worry about the logistics of navigating a new city.

Cruise Plus Hotel Packages

Stay longer and relax

Extend your cruise vacation, and simplify your travel plans with a hotel stay at the beginning or end of your cruise. With a Cruise Plus Hotel Package, a Princess representative meets you at the airport and pier, transporting you to and from your hotel. The package includes the cost of your hotel stay, transportation, luggage handling, and the representative’s services.

Need help planning?

Princess Cruise Vacation Planners are a dedicated resource to help you every step of the way through the planning process of your cruise vacation. The best part is, their services are completely FREE!

Cruise deals & promotions

Find our top sales, deals, partnerships and promotions for our destinations all in one place. We run promotions throughout the year and sometimes run sweepstakes where you can win prizes!

#PrincessCruises Caribbean Connections

See the Caribbean through our guests' eyes.

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EASTERN CARIBBEAN CRUISE

Discover the Eastern Caribbean’s unspoiled beaches and rich culture

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Unwind in Luxury on an Eastern Caribbean Cruise

With its pearly white beaches, clear blue waters, and deep green landscapes, an Eastern Caribbean cruise consistently delivers on its promise of paradise. Explore historic Puerto Rico and tour imposing forts dating back hundreds of years. On nearby St. Maarten, choose from dozens of palm-lined beaches like Mullet Bay Beach or romantic Dawn Beach. Tour Blackbeard’s mystical castle in Charlotte-Amalie, the capital of the U.S. Virgin Islands. Ascend the famed 99 Steps for sweeping views of St. Thomas from the top.

Stop on relaxing St. Kitts for breathtaking beaches and lush rainforest hikes. In Tortola, snorkel along the coral and turquoise waters of Smugglers Cove, or hike the stunning Virgin Gorda Baths. When you experience the Eastern Caribbean’s top destinations with Celebrity, we’ll reveal a new side to island life through world-class excursions and activities for every type of traveler. Keep the island vibes flowing long after your vacation with precious memories of sun-soaked days on the world’s best beaches.

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Enjoy luxurious staterooms, cuisine, and service as you discover the British Virgin Islands, Puerto Rico, St. Kitts and Fort Lauderdale. Climb, snorkel, swim, bike or chill in some of the world’s most beautiful places.

Eastern Caribbean Cruise Highlights

Lounge on pristine beaches.

It wouldn’t be a Caribbean cruise without dazzling white-sand beaches, turquoise waters, and aqua-adventures. In St. Kitts & Nevis, lose track of time at Frigate Bay, a secluded cove where swimming, snorkeling, and marine animal sightings are all part of the fun. In the Dominican Republic, relax on Playa Grande, or discover the immaculate stretch of sand at Cane Garden Bay in Tortola. At every port of call, you’ll have a world-class selection of gorgeous beaches to choose from.

Soak Up History

The fusion of Dutch, Spanish, and local influences add to the captivating quality of the Eastern Caribbean. Explore Fortaleza San Felipe in Puerto Plata, which once protected the city from pirates and looters. Stroll Old San Juan’s colorful cobblestoned streets to be transported back in time, or tour the 16th-century Spanish citadel El Morro, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, which casts a watchful eye over the capital city.

Scale New Heights

Embark on a journey up the 99 Steps in Charlotte-Amalie, St. Thomas for breathtaking island views from the top. In St. Kitts and Nevis lies one of the Caribbean’s most popular hikes—an ascent to Mount Liamuiga, a dormant volcano on the west side of the island. For an adventure you’ll never forget, soar over the lush treetops of the islands on an exciting zip line excursion.

Featured Eastern Caribbean Cruise Ports

Philipsburg, st. maarten.

On a cruise to St. Maarten, you’ll discover a rich cultural heritage that fuses Caribbean soul with European charm. Head to Great Bay Beach for watersports like jet skiing, or lounge on the breathtaking Grand Case Beach. Get your adrenaline pumping as you soar over the treetops on a zip line, ride horseback along the coastline, or watch in awe as an airplane descends right over you on Maho Beach.

Charlotte-Amalie, St. Thomas

On the extraordinary island of St. Thomas, escape to the aptly-named Sapphire Beach for a swim, or go on a thrilling boat ride along the half-moon shaped Magens Bay. Discover Charlotte-Amalie on a guided culinary tour and learn how to make rum cocktails and traditional dishes. Explore shipwrecks on an unforgettable scuba diving excursion, or snorkel with sea turtles in a protected national park.

San Juan, Puerto Rico

Puerto Rico’s capital is a well-loved destination and one of the most energetic cities in the Caribbean. Wander through the historic, colorful streets of Old San Juan. Swim and snorkel along the beaches of Condado or El Escambrón, where vibrant marine life and coral reefs live. Venture deeper into the island on a journey to El Yunque National Forest, a tropical rainforest with hiking trails and spectacular waterfalls.

Eastern Caribbean Cruise Itineraries

Cruises to the Eastern Caribbean depart from Miami, Fort Lauderdale, and Tampa, Florida; and San Juan, Puerto Rico. Set sail year-round on one of our luxury cruise ships, like Celebrity Edge or Apex. You’ll spend seven to eleven nights in paradise, both on and off the ship.

Itineraries

Why sail to the eastern caribbean with celebrity.

While you’re sailing the Eastern Caribbean, there’s an entire world at your fingertips on board. After a busy day in port exploring the sights or a slow, easy day on one of the Caribbean’s pristine beaches, revel in luxury on board. Savor cuisine designed by Michelin-starred chefs at one of our specialty restaurants. Sink into the Cashmere mattress in your luxuriously appointed stateroom or suite. Book a well-earned massage at The Spa, or lounge poolside. Unwind in total comfort as you sail from one Eastern Caribbean paradise to the next on your luxury cruise vacation.

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EASTERN CARIBBEAN CRUISE

Discover the Eastern Caribbean’s unspoiled beaches and rich culture

Tabs View Cruises

• View Cruises

Unwind in Luxury on an Eastern Caribbean Cruise

With its pearly white beaches, clear blue waters, and deep green landscapes, an Eastern Caribbean cruise consistently delivers on its promise of paradise. Explore historic Puerto Rico and tour imposing forts dating back hundreds of years. On nearby St. Maarten, choose from dozens of palm-lined beaches like Mullet Bay Beach or romantic Dawn Beach. Tour Blackbeard’s mystical castle in Charlotte-Amalie, the capital of the U.S. Virgin Islands. Ascend the famed 99 Steps for sweeping views of St. Thomas from the top.

Stop on relaxing St. Kitts for breathtaking beaches and lush rainforest hikes. In Tortola, snorkel along the coral and turquoise waters of Smugglers Cove, or hike the stunning Virgin Gorda Baths. When you experience the Eastern Caribbean’s top destinations with Celebrity, we’ll reveal a new side to island life through world-class excursions and activities for every type of traveler. Keep the island vibes flowing long after your vacation with precious memories of sun-soaked days on the world’s best beaches.

  Nights

  Guests

  Stateroom

  Onboard Credits

  perks included

Starting From

Avg. per person

Explore The Caribbean with us

Enjoy luxurious staterooms, cuisine, and service as you discover the British Virgin Islands, Puerto Rico, St. Kitts and Fort Lauderdale. Climb, snorkel, swim, bike or chill in some of the world’s most beautiful places.

Eastern Caribbean Cruise Highlights

Lounge on pristine beaches.

It wouldn’t be a Caribbean cruise without dazzling white-sand beaches, turquoise waters, and aqua-adventures. In St. Kitts & Nevis, lose track of time at Frigate Bay, a secluded cove where swimming, snorkeling, and marine animal sightings are all part of the fun. In the Dominican Republic, relax on Playa Grande, or discover the immaculate stretch of sand at Cane Garden Bay in Tortola. At every port of call, you’ll have a world-class selection of gorgeous beaches to choose from.

Soak Up History

The fusion of Dutch, Spanish, and local influences add to the captivating quality of the Eastern Caribbean. Explore Fortaleza San Felipe in Puerto Plata, which once protected the city from pirates and looters. Stroll Old San Juan’s colorful cobblestoned streets to be transported back in time, or tour the 16th-century Spanish citadel El Morro, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, which casts a watchful eye over the capital city.

Scale New Heights

Embark on a journey up the 99 Steps in Charlotte-Amalie, St. Thomas for breathtaking island views from the top. In St. Kitts and Nevis lies one of the Caribbean’s most popular hikes—an ascent to Mount Liamuiga, a dormant volcano on the west side of the island. For an adventure you’ll never forget, soar over the lush treetops of the islands on an exciting zip line excursion.

Featured Eastern Caribbean Cruise Ports

Philipsburg, st. maarten.

On a cruise to St. Maarten, you’ll discover a rich cultural heritage that fuses Caribbean soul with European charm. Head to Great Bay Beach for watersports like jet skiing, or lounge on the breathtaking Grand Case Beach. Get your adrenaline pumping as you soar over the treetops on a zip line, ride horseback along the coastline, or watch in awe as an airplane descends right over you on Maho Beach.

Charlotte-Amalie, St. Thomas

On the extraordinary island of St. Thomas, escape to the aptly-named Sapphire Beach for a swim, or go on a thrilling boat ride along the half-moon shaped Magens Bay. Discover Charlotte-Amalie on a guided culinary tour and learn how to make rum cocktails and traditional dishes. Explore shipwrecks on an unforgettable scuba diving excursion, or snorkel with sea turtles in a protected national park.

San Juan, Puerto Rico

Puerto Rico’s capital is a well-loved destination and one of the most energetic cities in the Caribbean. Wander through the historic, colorful streets of Old San Juan. Swim and snorkel along the beaches of Condado or El Escambrón, where vibrant marine life and coral reefs live. Venture deeper into the island on a journey to El Yunque National Forest, a tropical rainforest with hiking trails and spectacular waterfalls.

Eastern Caribbean Cruise Itineraries

Cruises to the Eastern Caribbean depart from Miami, Fort Lauderdale, and Tampa, Florida; and San Juan, Puerto Rico. Set sail year-round on one of our luxury cruise ships, like Celebrity Edge or Apex. You’ll spend seven to eleven nights in paradise, both on and off the ship.

Itineraries

Why sail to the eastern caribbean with celebrity.

While you’re sailing the Eastern Caribbean, there’s an entire world at your fingertips on board. After a busy day in port exploring the sights or a slow, easy day on one of the Caribbean’s pristine beaches, revel in luxury on board. Savor cuisine designed by Michelin-starred chefs at one of our specialty restaurants. Sink into the Cashmere mattress in your luxuriously appointed stateroom or suite. Book a well-earned massage at The Spa, or lounge poolside. Unwind in total comfort as you sail from one Eastern Caribbean paradise to the next on your luxury cruise vacation.

You Might Also Like

Cruises to Puerto Rico

Cruise to the Virgin Islands

Cruise to US Virgin Islands

Best Time to Cruise to the Caribbean

Best Beaches in The Caribbean

Best Time to Visit the British Virgin Islands

What to Pack for a Caribbean Cruise

Best Caribbean Islands For Families

January Cruises

Best Summer Cruises

Best Cruises for Couples

Best Time to Visit St. Maarten

7-Day Caribbean Cruises

Last-Minute Cruises from Florida

3-Day All Inclusive Cruise

Cruises in March

Things to Do on a 7-Day Eastern Caribbean Cruise

Gorgeous Eastern Caribbean Islands to Visit

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Where can I cruise without a passport?

At TPG, we always recommend cruising with a passport, but there are many reasons why you might want to set sail without one.

What if an opportunity pops up on short notice, and you don't have a passport yet? Or what if you forgot to renew yours when it expired? What if it's only a three-night cruise to the Bahamas, and the passport application fee is almost as much as the cruise fare? Or, maybe you have children nearing age 16 and can't justify paying for passports that will only be good for five years.

First of all, do you even need a passport to cruise ? The answer is often but not always. You have options to cruise without a passport because not every sailing requires them. Thanks to an international agreement called the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative , U.S. citizens can cruise on certain itineraries within North American countries using government-issued identification (like a valid driver's license) and proof of citizenship (like a government-issued birth certificate).

The cruises that you don't need a passport for are closed-loop sailings, which depart from and return to the same port within the U.S. One-way sailings from one U.S. port to another or from a U.S. port to a foreign one would require a passport.

For more cruise news, reviews and tips, sign up for TPG's cruise newsletter .

Before we go further, let's clarify that when we talk about cruising without a passport, we're referring to pricey passport books that some travelers do not wish to purchase. Passport cards can also be used for identification when cruising in all the places we are about to discuss; these cards are a low-cost alternative to traveling with your driver's license and birth certificate.

Let's look at the options for where you can cruise without a passport.

Cruising to Alaska is one of the easiest ways to experience all the state offers. You'll have opportunities to see glaciers and wildlife; stroll the streets of charming coastal towns; eat your fill of local crab legs and salmon; and enjoy nature on a kayak, zip line or hike.

If you're interested in cruising to Alaska without a passport, look for itineraries that begin (and end) in Seattle , San Francisco or southern California ports, such as Los Angeles or Long Beach, California. The most common length for these closed-loop Alaska cruises operated by the major cruise lines is seven nights. Cruises early or late in the season might be only four or five nights, and trips departing from LA are usually 14 nights.

What if you really want to cruise one-way from Canada to Alaska (or vice versa)? Although Canada prefers U.S. citizens who arrive by sea or land to have a passport book, it is not required as long as they have proper identification and proof of citizenship. The U.S., however, requires one of the following WHTI-approved forms of identification for entries by land or sea: passport card, enhanced driver's license, I-872 American Indian card or trusted traveler program IDs like Nexus, Sentri and Fast.

Technically, if you have one of those forms of ID but not a passport book, you can take a one-way Alaska cruise — as long as you don't have to fly to or from Canada.

More complications arise for non-passport holders who book shore excursions that involve crossing from Alaska to Canada. White Pass and Yukon Route train rides are good examples. White Pass and Yukon Route allows cruise passengers to go on the three-hour train excursion without a passport but doesn't allow them to take any longer routes. That's their policy, not a legal requirement.

This means that Alaska cruises are one instance when the passport card would be a handy alternative to traveling with both an ID card and a birth certificate. It opens up one-way itineraries.

Related: The best Alaska cruise for every type of traveler

A cruise to the Caribbean transports you to tropical islands bathed in turquoise waters. Whether you seek warm beaches, cool drinks, water sports or cultural education, you can find a Caribbean cruise to fit the bill.

It's easy to cruise without a passport in the Caribbean: Just book one of the many closed-loop, round-trip sailings departing from a U.S. port. Most major cruise lines offer sailings that range between three and 15 nights from ports like Galveston, Texas; New Orleans; multiple ports in Florida (including Miami and Fort Lauderdale); Charleston, South Carolina; Baltimore; Bayonne, New Jersey; and New York City.

Most Caribbean islands participate in the WHTI, but it's always best to check the details specific to the ports of call included in your itinerary. Don't forget that islands such as Puerto Rico, St. Thomas, St. John and St. Croix are U.S. territories, so visits never require passports for U.S. citizens.

Related: The best Caribbean cruises for every type of traveler

Bermuda is a British Overseas Territory, lying 643 miles off the coast of North Carolina. Hop on a cruise ship for a direct route to the island's famous beaches and golf courses. Spring and summer are the prime seasons to visit, but cruises are possible throughout the year.

Cruising without a passport to Bermuda is also easy. Apart from a few isolated cruises stopping in Bermuda as they come or go from other destinations, there are no one-way Bermuda cruises to confuse the situation. If you plan to sail without a passport, be wary of any Bermuda cruise longer than 10 nights. Those are likely to be point-to-point cruises that happen to include Bermuda.

Passport-free cruises to Bermuda include ample five- to 10-night sailings from the East Coast ports of Baltimore, Bayonne, Boston and Manhattan. Occasional itineraries also pop up throughout the Bermuda season departing from Norfolk, Virginia; Charleston; and the Florida ports of Miami, Port Canaveral (near Orlando) and Jacksonville.

Related: Does it make sense to take a short cruise to Bermuda?

Long known for delightful strands of beach and access to every imaginable form of water fun under the subtropical sun, the Bahamas are the ideal destination for easy and quick cruise vacations.

Skip the passport on three- to five-night Bahamas cruises sailing round-trip on most major cruise lines from the eastern Florida ports of Jacksonville, Port Canaveral, Fort Lauderdale's Port Everglades and Miami.

A few longer, seven- to 15-night itineraries stop in the Bahamas on their way into the Caribbean. Departures from Bayonne, Manhattan, Baltimore and Charleston will often get you weeklong Bahamas itineraries, as will sailings from Tampa, Galveston and New Orleans.

Related: Best Bahamas cruise tips for first-timers and repeat visitors alike

Our southern neighbor boasts two coastlines of cruise fun. Like most tropical cruise destinations, the top draws are the beaches and the ocean; however, cruise ports in Mexico also give you access to ancient Mayan ruins, delicious cuisine and an abundance of land activities.

Mexico's Caribbean and Pacific coasts are both accessible to cruisers who do not hold passports. If you want to visit Mexico's eastern shores, you can find three- to 15-night cruises to Costa Maya, Cozumel and Progreso. Sailings depart Florida from Miami, Tampa, Fort Lauderdale and Port Canaveral; you can also find itineraries from New Orleans, Galveston and Mobile, Alabama.

Western Mexico, often referred to as the Mexican Riviera, includes the ports of Cabo San Lucas, Puerto Vallarta, Mazatlan and Ensenada, among others. Cruises with several major lines depart San Diego, San Pedro port in LA and Long Beach for voyages lasting anywhere from three to 10 nights.

Related: The best Mexico cruises for every type of traveler

From water sports to American history and Hawaiian culture, there's a lot to experience on a Hawaii cruise . The best part might be the ability to hop from island to island, sampling the flavors of each as you go.

Closed-loop Hawaii cruises that don't require passports come in two varieties. The short option is to fly to Honolulu and take a seven- or 10-night cruise on Norwegian Cruise Line 's Pride of America. This is the only large cruise ship allowed to operate entirely within the Hawaiian Islands without visiting a foreign port.

Small-ship cruise operator UnCruise Adventures also offers seven-night, inter-island Hawaiian sailings. The American-flagged ships only cruise to and from U.S. ports, so no passport is needed, as would be the case on any domestic trip.

The long-cruise options consist of 14- to 18-night round-trip sailings from San Diego, LA (Long Beach and San Pedro) and San Francisco. You won't need a passport for these closed-loop sailings, but you do need to be prepared for multiple days at sea as you cross the Pacific from California to Hawaii.

Beware of 20-plus-night cruises that are round-trip sailings from the West Coast and would seem to fit the bill for closed-loop cruises that don't require passports. Most of these cruises don't work because they also include stops in French Polynesia, which is outside of the WHTI agreement. Passports are required for the islands in the South Pacific, which means they're required for the entire cruise.

Related: The best Hawaii cruises for every type of traveler

Canada and New England

Cruises up North America's East Coast allow you to take in historical sights of early Americana, stand atop rugged cliffs on the coast of Nova Scotia or revel in the French culture of Quebec.

Mainstream cruise lines operate numerous cruises along the U.S. and Canadian coasts that don't require passports. These depart from the ports of Bayonne, Baltimore, Boston, Manhattan, Brooklyn and occasionally Norfolk. The majority of these New England and Canada cruises are weeklong fall sailings; however, a handful depart at other times of the year or are a touch longer, ranging from eight to 10 nights.

Related: The best cruises to Canada and New England

Some cruise lines also offer one-way cruises in both directions between Canada and New England. These itineraries, like Alaska cruises, might be possible without a passport book. This is the case as long as your plans don't include flying into or out of Canada and your cruise line allows you to cruise with either a passport card or other acceptable form of identification and proof of citizenship.

We checked with a few lines for you. Princess, Holland America and Celebrity all strongly recommend passport books, but they allow one of the WHTI forms of identification. Again, the passport card opens up one-way possibilities, assuming you aren't flying and your cruise only includes Canada and the U.S.

Bottom line

While cruising with a passport is always recommended, it's not required by law in certain circumstances. Closed-loop cruises from U.S. ports that visit Bermuda, Canada, the Caribbean and Mexico are part of an international agreement that allows U.S. citizens to cruise without a passport. In these cases, government-issued identification and proof of U.S. citizenship are acceptable alternatives to a passport book.

Passport cards are an affordable and unquestionable alternative to carrying an ID and birth certificate. If you want to go this route, know they are not valid for travel by air into or out of any foreign country, including Canada, Mexico, Bermuda or Caribbean countries — which is the primary reason most travel advisers urge cruisers to have a passport book.

As we've shown, you have plenty of options for where to cruise without a passport, and many travelers do so without incident. However, anything from engine trouble on your cruise ship to bad weather or an accident in port might necessitate a flight home from a foreign country. This would put you in an awkward position if you didn't have a passport.

Plus, as much fun as simple round-trip cruises are, passports open up additional vacation possibilities in the form of longer, point-to-point and overseas trips. Don't dismiss registering for a passport, even as you consider where you can cruise without one.

Planning a cruise? Start with these stories:

• The 5 most desirable cabin locations on any cruise ship
• A beginners guide to picking a cruise line
• The 8 worst cabin locations on any cruise ship
• A quick guide to the most popular cruise lines
• 21 tips and tricks that will make your cruise go smoothly
• Top ways cruisers waste money
• 12 best cruises for people who never want to grow up
• The ultimate guide to what to pack for a cruise

Editorial disclaimer: Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, airline or hotel chain, and have not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of these entities.