Twinkling turquoise water, white sandy beaches and year-round warm weather – it’s not hard to see why the Caribbean is one of the most coveted cruise destinations in the world. You can be snorkelling with turtles in tropical reefs one day and sampling rum in a local distillery the next — all the makings of a dream holiday.
With hundreds of islands to explore, there’s no better way to visit the Caribbean than via a cruise. Holland America Line has been welcoming holidaymakers for over 150 years, with flexible itineraries, perfectly-sized ships and personalised on-board service. Departing from Florida’s Fort Lauderdale, the cruise line offers seven to 21-day voyages across four key Caribbean regions, with an itinerary to suit every type of traveller – whether you're after historic city tours or underwater adventures.
Eastern Caribbean
If you’re looking for downtime with a side of exploring, an Eastern Caribbean cruise around islands such as St Lucia, Dominica, Antigua and Barbuda is the one for you. Holland America Line has over 70 carefully planned itineraries to choose from, including this 14-day Tropical/Eastern winter-sun cruise, which visits picture-perfect Turks & Caicos and Half Moon Cay – Holland America Line’s private Bahamian island – and provides plenty of opportunities to kick back and relax in spectacular surroundings.
Sightseers will love visits to Dominican Republic’s historic cities, museums and rum-makers, as well as the colourful cobblestone streets of Old San Juan, Puerto Rico, where the cruise docks with a late evening stay on Christmas day.
Western Caribbean
The Western Caribbean incorporates Grand Cayman, Cozumel and Jamaica. With waterfalls, coral reefs and jungle to explore, and once-in-a-lifetime excursions to experience, the region’s stunning landscape provides the perfect backdrop for thrill-seekers and adventure junkies.
Bucket list Western Caribbean itinerary highlights include bamboo rafting on Jamaica’s Martha Brae River, swimming with dolphins in the Cayman Islands or getting a closer look at Cozumel's unique marine life via submarine. After a busy day exploring, your ship's on-board spa is the ideal spot to recharge, followed by a Caribbean-themed feast featuring local dishes such as salt fish fritters, jerked pork tenderloin and steamed stone crab.
Southern Caribbean
Taking in the ABC islands of Aruba, Bonaire and Curaçao, a Southern Caribbean cruise is a great way to explore some of the region’s lesser-known spots alongside like-minded travellers. With no shortage of natural wonders, history buffs and wildlife lovers will be in heaven here. Destinations to look out for include Willemstad, the historic capital of Curaçao, where colourful Dutch colonial architecture is on full display, and Kralendijk in Bonaire, an island known for its pink flamingos and pristine national marine park.
Holland America Line boast perfectly-sized ships to ensure smooth passage into smaller ports like these.
Tropical Caribbean
You’re never too far away from a tranquil beach stroll or a glass of rum punch in the Tropical Caribbean. Stopping in Florida’s Key West, which promises sublime sunsets as well as elegant architecture and fantastic seafood, a cruise around this region is a bucket-list-worthy holiday.
Book onto one of Holland America Line’s Tropical Caribbean cruises and enjoy a myriad of island experiences at Half Moon Cay. Admiring panoramic views via a horseback ride, relaxing in a quiet private cabana or spotting tropical fish on a glass bottom boat tour can all be enjoyed throughout your stay.
Savour authentic cuisine onboard, sourced and produced locally from the port to your plate, then enjoy the sounds of Memphis rhythm and blues at B.B. King’s Blues Club, chart topping hits at Billboard Onboard or rock classics at Rolling Stone Lounge.
Plan your dream Caribbean cruise with Holland America Line at hollandamerica.com
