Popular Caribbean Destinations for Those on a Cruise

There are many reasons why the Caribbean is one of the most popular cruise destinations in the world. One main reason is perhaps due to the fact that the Caribbean offers some of the most beautiful tropical islands on this planet. It  really doesn't take much to fall in love with the sparkling waters, the sunny climate and the pristine beaches the Caribbean offers. However, it does not end here. If you think that all the Caribbean has to offer is an opportunity to swim and soak up some sun, you may be wrong as there is so much to do you may feel overwhelmed. 

The Caribbean encompasses several islands including some quite popular destinations such as Bermuda, Bahamas, Cuba, Puerto Rico, Antigua, Dominica, St. Lucia, Grenada, Trinidad, Martinique, St. Maarten, Haiti and Jamaica. The best part of all, is that each island is quite unique, each offering something different for just about anybody. Aspiring Caribbean travelers therefore should keep this in mind, since each Caribbean cruise may visit different islands and therefore may offer different things to do. 

Some research on which islands offers what you are looking for is a must. If you are enamored with nature and the sea and look forward to seeing maritime creatures then you may look forward to visiting islands offering snorkeling, nature trails and so forth. If you like crowds and shopping then you should stay away from islands offering secluded beaches and solitary paths.if you enjoy gambling, look for islands offering opportunities to play the slots. Following are some of the highlights found in the most popular Caribbean cruise port of calls.

• Grand Cayman Island's Stingray City

Stingray city is a very popular shore destination included in many western Caribbean cruises. It offers the opportunity to touch and feed several friendly stingrays and go snorkeling among vibrant coral reefs and colorful tropical fish. The island also offers the opportunity for scuba diving, snorkeling, submarine tours, horse back riding, golfing, duty free shopping and fishing.

• Puerto Rico's El Yunque Rain Forest

This forest is just 45 minutes from San Juan and offers 28,000 acres of tropical rain forest. There are about 12 trails and more than 240 species of trees, along with a bird sanctuary. The highest peak in El Yunque is El Toro which reaches 3,532 feet. This national park is a must or those who love nature and look forward to seeing different species of wild animals and vegetation.

• Jamaica's Dunn River

These 600 feet falls are a big tourist attraction, indeed the parking lot is always full of tour buses. The river is walked up with a guide which takes up groups which must walk the river holding hands. The highlight are the waterfalls at the top which offer a great opportunity for memorable pictures.

• St. Maarten's America's Cup Yacht Racing

If you have always dreamed of sailing but never had the time nor opportunity to learn, your dream can come true if you visit St. Maarten. All aspiring sailors need to be equipped with in order to take part in the race, is a strong sense of adventure. Using sleek sailing yachts that were actually once really in the famous America's Cup, travelers will get to put their sailing abilities to test for a good 12 meters race.

These are only a few of the many great things that can happen on a Caribbean cruise. In order to make the most out of your cruise, learn as much as you can about the islands and try to find a cruise that lands at those particular port of calls. Good research and planning are the key to getting the most out of your cruise.

If you are hunting for the best rates, generally these go down considerably in the late spring or summer months, or even better in the fall. Most travelers decide to visit in the winter months so to flee the cold weather and embrace sunshine and warm temperatures. Indeed the high season in the Caribbeans starts from mid December and ends mid April. Expect crowded beaches and full capacity hotels during these times. Low season is generally from the end of May to the end of August.

Whether you decide to embark on a cruise heading towards the Western, Eastern or Southern Caribbean, you will surely have a blast and enjoy your trip. There is no such thing as a bland and boring Caribbean cruise, however with research, you can select how to get the most out of your cruise. Just make sure to pack light, wear comfortable shoes and make lots of memorable pictures so to take home the best memories of the most beautiful islands on earth.