From month-long transatlantic cruises, to 7 and 14 day sails, numerous cruise lines contend for this hot-spot, and scouring cruise deals reveals an array of affordable options to suit every budget.
The most popular companies, like Royal Caribbean, P&O, Holland America and Celebrity Cruises make weekly pilgrimages here during the popular summer season, some even venturing out to Bermuda, possibly the most challenging of all the Eastern Caribbean ports.
What to do once you get there? Everything!
From sunbathing on beautiful beaches, to scuba diving, snorkelling, shopping and sight-seeing; there's little the Eastern Caribbean islands don't offer. Need more reasons to go?
Here you go: no less that five James Bond films were filmed here, the local delicacy is a type of toad on steroids, the indigenous Carib tribe was once cannibalistic and this is the birthplace of reggae music.
Take from that what you will, but let us assure you... an Eastern Caribbean cruise is like nothing you've ever imagined. So channel your inner pirate and explore these exquisite sanctuaries on your next summer vacation.
St. Lucia
In the middle of the eastern Caribbean cluster of isles sits St. Lucia, a charming and unpretentious (you guessed it) tropical paradise. St. Lucia was the birthplace of Napoleon's wife, and was once a very prominent French protectorate.
Nowadays, the island is mostly known for the UNESCO site of 'The Pitons' (a twin-peaked volcano), and the splendid mountain range which dissects it. Join a Segway tour to the top of Mt Pimard for breathtaking, and unobstructed, views of the Rodney Bay, or head to the Pigeon Island Nature Reserve where the scuba diving is top-notch. Perhaps you'd like to test their stamina by booking a hiking tour to the top of Gros Piton, the bigger of the two extinct volcano peaks.
There are also various walking trails through the island's many rainforests to be had. We strongly advise you to pre-book all you on-shore activities directly with your cruise liner's co-ordinator before you even arrive; St. Lucia is one of the most visited cruise ports in the Eastern Caribbean and activities get booked out often. Avoid disappointment by booking ahead.
For locally made handicrafts and souvenirs, head to the open air markets near the Castries port, where duty-free shopping is available for all cruise holidaymakers.
The Bahamas
Stopping over to visit The Bahamas, whilst on an Eastern Caribbean cruise holiday, makes for a kind of inception experience. This cluster of islands, within a cluster of islands, offers hundreds of different on-shore activities on hundreds of different isles! Whatever it is you fancy doing, you'll definitely find an island to do it in. From a game of golf to a full day health-spa pamper and all the sporting extras you've ever dreamt of, there's nothing you won't find in this cluster of gorgeousness.
If you'd like to get away from the crowds, the shops and the bargaining for the day, do note that The Bahamas is home to the Lucayan National Park and full-day tours can be organised to visit Ben's Cave, one of the longest underwater cave systems in the world. Tours can be specifically organised to coincide with your cruise liner arrival and departure, so consider booking this activity fro an epitome day out in nature.
Bermuda
The world's most picturesque island is situated on the northern end of the Eastern Caribbean archipelago. But don't just take our word for it... Bermuda has been voted the 'number 1' cruise holiday destination for decades now. In fact, some would say, it's all getting rather boring. Could Bermuda really be that good?
You bet!
Sparkling rose sandy beaches, accosted by spectacular tropical reefs, are just appetisers for those lucky enough to venture here. Once on shore, your choice of activities are almost endless; there are water sports galore, natural hikes aplenty and an old English colonial town just itching to be discovered. The local inhabitants are amongst the friendliest in the world and the quality of the cuisine unmatched. No wonder then, that Bermuda has been the R&R playground of the rich and famous for decades.
If you're interested in the natural attractions in Bermuda, then we suggest you don't stray too far from the shore! Scuba diving and snorkelling are superb, and the crystal clear waters provide unobstructed views of the endemic sea life in the nearby reefs. If you'd like to stretch your legs a little, then visit some of the most interesting on-shore attractions like the Bermuda Aquarium, the Maritime Museum or the Crystal Caves.
The former capital of Bermuda, Old Town St George, is Britain's oldest surviving colonial settlement and is well worth a visit. Perfectly preserved, St George Town is protected under the UNESCO World Heritage banner.
Whilst Bermuda is a relatively small island, obviously surrounded by copious amounts of sea, one would think that it would be an easy Caribbean cruise port to reach. In fact, the opposite is true.
The best island in the Caribbean, is quite possibly the most difficult to dock in! The immense reefs, coupled with unusual weather patterns, make Bermuda quite a challenge; not every cruise line reaches this particular port, the most popular visitors here hailing from the Holland America, Cunard Cruise Line or Royal Caribbean.
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