Tips for Cruising the Caribbean

Caribbean cruise
Although the best time for Caribbean cruises begins in November, the truth is that most of us can only do this type of trip during our summer vacations. For this reason, we are going to take advantage of the fact that we are in the middle of July to tell you about this type of traveling modality that allows you to know both urban landscapes and dream paradises by Caribbean waters.

Caribbean cruises, which cover countries such as Cuba, Mexico, Costa Rica or the Dominican Republic, allow you to contemplate, among other things, impressive beaches with clear sand and warm, crystal clear waters. Of course, keep in mind that most of the cruises that make these trips are luxury, offering all possible comforts: outdoor and indoor pools, gym, spas, game rooms, nightclubs … Of course, before deciding on your cruise must take into account a number of aspects.

The main routes

If you have already decided to cruise through Caribbean waters, you will have to decide the most important thing: the itinerary . In general, we can talk about two routes, the east and the west, although both offer practically the same possibilities. As for the former, they usually depart from Florida and Mexico and usually go through ports such as the Bahamas, St. John, Miami, Havana, Nassau, San Pedro de Puerto Rico, Ocho Ríos, Grand Cayman, Catalina Island, Cozumel and Puerto Lemon. These cruises are ideal for those travelers who prefer to spend fewer days sailing and more days on the beaches and taking excursions through the cities.

Caribbean Cruise1
Regarding the routes to the west , they also depart from Florida and Mexico, and usually go through St. Thomas, St. Marteen, Martinique, Barbados or Curaçao.

Types of ships

After choosing the itinerary you will have to decide the type of boat. In general terms, we can talk about 3 types of boats: the small ones, which accommodate about 200 people; the medium ones, that include about 500 passengers; and the large ones, which can accommodate about 3,000 people. Regardless of what type of boat and itinerary you choose, it is best to book well in advance (about 2 or 3 months in advance), since there is usually a lot of demand.

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Cabin types

On the other hand, you must choose between the different types of cabins on Caribbean cruises. Of course, prices will vary depending on the type of room. We can talk about two large groups : the exteriors with views of the sea, or the interiors. As you may have imagined, it is the first ones that have the highest rates and those that run out first. In addition, you should bear in mind that the cabins of some ships also differ in terms of dimensions or location.

Caribbean Cruise3

Transportation to the starting place

Another aspect that you will have to think about when taking a Caribbean cruise is on the way to the first port of call. And is that although some cruises provide this transport , the vast majority do not. In the case of Caribbean cruises, the ideal is to reach the first destination by plane. In addition, you must be sure that you have transportation from the airport to the pier.

Hurricane season

Finally, we want you to keep in mind that cruising during hurricane season can be extremely dangerous , especially in areas with buildings that cannot withstand strong winds. This season begins in June and ends in November, although some months are more active than others: August and September are the worst. On the other hand, you should make sure if, in the event of a hurricane, they return your money or not, or if they divert you to an alternative destination.