subject: The Newbie's Simple Guidelines To Explorers Aspiring To Set Off For The Caribbean Journey [print this page] Selecting the Best Caribbean Cruise Itinerary
When planning a cruise to the Caribbean, one is challenged by having to decide on which itinerary to choose. Experience first hand the exquisite haven of the Caribbean surrounded by turquoise waters and white sands, and island adventures. The islands in the Eastern Caribbean region are closely situated near each other so cruisers have more time to spend on land than on sea plus you get to indulge in endless water and beach fun activities. The Western cruise on the other hand is more of tracing the Spanish heritage of the Caribbean islands and shopping although it also spends some of its time on the beach but spends more of its time on board the cruise ship compared to the Eastern Cruise since trips between islands takes more time. Jump into a whole new world of virgin rain forest and gardens, volcano terrains, and a preview of Indian and French culture that make up the interesting Southern Caribbean Route. Whichever cruise itinerary you choose, the best thing is you get to enjoy and make the most of every cruise.
Sailing on the Finest Eastern Caribbean Cruises
Tourists and travelers usually opt for and choose the famous Eastern Caribbean cruise. Since the islands on this route are near each other, tourists can spend more time on the shore rather than spend most of the time on board the cruise ships. Shore excursions include a taste of the amazing brilliant sun, pristine white sand and crystal clear azure sea of these natural and untouched islands with swimming or sports activities like scuba diving, snorkeling, parasailing, beach volleyball or just simply lazing under the shade of its palm trees. The duration for this cruise may be for a weekend or could reach up to a week or two. Rates vary depending on the cruise line, accommodation and type of services availed of, ranging from the most basic to the most magnificent. Ports of call such as San Juan in Puerto Rico, Bahamas, British and American Virgin Islands, St. Thomas, St. John, and St. Martin or St. Maarten are usually anchored by the cruise ships. Cruise season is usually December to April with cheap rates during the summer months. Due to occurrence of hurricanes and typhoons, it is not advisable to take a cruise from June to November.
Discover the Island Treasures of the Caribbean Ports of Call
The cruise package, the route followed, the season of the year, the cruise ship and the company it belongs to, and the package acquired by the tourist plays a role in selecting the ports of call. Deciding on the itinerary is usually the hardest part of the cruise bearing in mind the islands that abound the Caribbean and the scenes that it offers. Some ports are busy all year round while others are frequented only at specific times of the year. Some best picks for ports of call and stopovers on the Caribbean are mentioned hereafter. In the island of St. Thomas one can experience globally competitive shopping and great deals on this wealthy island. At Puerto Ricos San Juan Island travelers can tour the old buildings as old as the 16th century and old town set up paired with the islands rich scenic spots. Some other well known ports of call are Cozumel, Antigua, Grand Cayman, St. Maarten/St. Martin, Curacao, and Aruba.
The Amazing Western Caribbean Cruise
The Western Caribbean cruise is an all-in-one cruise paradise with the blazing sun, fine sand beaches, nature at its best and a glimpse of a civilization long past. Big liners like the Royal Caribbean and the Carnival Cruises have their all year round packages to the Western route. Smaller cruise liners like the Norwegian Cruise Line, Celebrity Cruises, Princess Cruises and Holland America have seasonal cruises during cruise seasons. You get a choice of budget cruises that are easy on the pocket to the most expensive luxury cruise on any of these cruises depending on your choice of accommodations and services. Most cruises port of origin includes New Orleans, Texas, and Florida and stops over the ports of Cozumel, Ocho Rios of Jamaica, Grand Cayman, and Montego Bay to have a glimpse of old Spanish forts, eco adventures, and exciting activities underwater.
