Caribbean Cruise Top Tips

Cruise to the Caribbean for beautiful beaches, refreshing turquoise waters, coconut rum cocktails, and a laid-back lifestyle. A Caribbean cruise appears on many a bucket list, and it’s easy to see why. This popular cruising destination features a multitude of inviting islands, each offering all sorts of exciting experiences and a tantalising taste of Caribbean culture.

Make the most of your cruise to the Caribbean with our top tips below.

When is the best time to cruise to the Caribbean?

The best time to cruise to the Caribbean is from December to April. The temperatures in the Caribbean average around 26°C during this time, and it's also outside of hurricane season so you can expect less rainfall. Setting sail on a Caribbean cruise from December also means you can escape a cold European winter for some much-needed sunshine.

What should I pack for a Caribbean cruise?

The Caribbean enjoys year round warm weather, so you can expect to be wearing shorts, sunglasses, and swimwear throughout most of your time onboard* and ashore.

Essentials for a Caribbean cruise include:

High Factor Sun Cream

Flip Flops, pool sliders AND comfortable walking shoes

Swimwear

Sunglasses

Sun hat

Lightweight layers and breathable fabrics

A waterproof camera

*Remember that some dining venues onboard have a smart dress code (e.g no flipflops) and some cruises have formal nights, so pack some smart outfits for these occasions. 

Caribbean Islands

Island hopping and shore exploring is all part of the fun on a Caribbean cruise. Once you have selected your preferred cruise, take some time to read up about the ports on your Caribbean itinerary before you depart. There are many to choose from, but take a look at some popular ports below for some great destination inspiration.

What to do in Cozumel on a cruise?

Just off the coast of Mexico’s stunning Riviera Maya coastline sits Cozumel, a picture-perfect island paradise with palm tree lined white sandy beaches, and vibrant underwater scenes. Visit Cozumel on a Royal Caribbean cruise to the Caribbean and enjoy a range of activities such as:

Explore the ancient Mayan ruins of Tulum on Mexico’s mainland.

Visit the Chankanaab National Marine Park and interact with dolphins.

Relax with a cocktail or a massage at Cozumel’s Playa Mia Beach.

Join a jeep safari through the island’s tropical landscape.

Snorkel the coral reef and crystal clear waters surrounding Cozumel.

Skim across the water and enjoy the Caribbean landscape from a speedboat.

What to do in St Maarten on a cruise?

A port call in Philipsburg is your doorway to explore the lush tropical landscape and welcoming coastline of St. Maarten. You can expect a Dutch/French cultural blend here with a Caribbean twist. Step ashore from your Royal Caribbean cruise, and try any number of the below activities:

Take a sailing lesson from a professional sailor.

Take a tour of St. Maarten’s Butterfly Farm.

Shop till you drop with around 500 duty free shops on the island.

Explore by bike and absorb the islands vibrant history.

Snorkel through Shipwreck Cove to experience the coral reef and spot exotic fish.

Kayak in the saltwater lagoons and spot wildlife.

What to do in St Thomas on a cruise?

Get a taste of paradise when you visit Saint Thomas, a US Virgin Island with one of the most beautiful harbours in the world. Main city Charlotte Amalie is bustling with duty-free shopping, vibrant nightlife, and Caribbean culture. Visit St Thomas with Royal Caribbean and enjoy breathtaking views, great cuisine and lots of fun things to see and do:

Check out Coral World Marine Park, the mangrove lagoon and Coastal Trail.

Spend half a day sailing on a large yacht before snorkelling at Turtle Cove.

Test your core strength with SUP Stand Up Paddle Boarding.

Bag a bargain with hundreds of shops and boutiques.

Jump on the ferry to Virgin Island National Park for a hike with lush tropical views.  



Cruise to the Caribbean with Royal Caribbean and ask about more exciting Caribbean excursions