1.Arrive in Miami, Florida, and board your Caribbean Cruise
2.Explore the ship, attend a welcome cocktail party, and settle into your cabin.
Day 2: At Sea
1.Enjoy a full day at sea, taking advantage of onboard amenities such as pools, spa treatments, fitness centers, and entertainment.
Day 3: Grand Cayman
1.Arrive in Grand Cayman.
2.Explore George Town, visit Stingray City for a snorkeling adventure, or relax on Seven Mile Beach.
Day 4: Cozumel, Mexico
1.Dock in Cozumel.
2.Choose from activities like visiting Mayan ruins, snorkeling in crystal-clear waters, or exploring Cozumel’s vibrant downtown.
Day 5: Belize City, Belize
1.Arrive in Belize City.
2.Embark on an excursion to explore ancient Mayan ruins like Altun Ha or go cave tubing in the jungle.
Day 6: Roatan, Honduras
1.Dock in Roatan.
2.Spend the day at a beautiful beach, go snorkeling, or take a canopy tour through the lush rainforest.
Day 7: Costa Maya, Mexico
1.Arrive in Costa Maya.
2.Explore the Maya ruins of Chacchoben, unwind at a beach club, or enjoy water sports like kayaking and paddleboarding
Day 8: At Sea
1.Another day at sea to relax and take advantage of the ship’s amenities.
Day 9: Cozumel, Mexico (Second Visit)
1.Return to Cozumel for another day of exploration or relaxation.
2.Consider diving or snorkeling at one of Cozumel’s famous reefs.
Day 10: Return to Miami, Florida
1.Disembark in Miami, concluding your Caribbean cruise adventure.
2.The Caribbean: Your Ultimate Cruise Destination
Caribbean Cruise remains the most popular cruise destination globally, drawing millions of sun-seeking travelers each year. With its array of islands offering year-round sunshine, it’s no wonder the Caribbean is a top choice.
A cruise holiday grants you the opportunity to explore the region’s best attractions in a short time. From Barbados’ golden sands to Dominica’s scenic nature reserves and the relaxed luxury of St. Kitts, it’s all there to be discovered.
Caribbean cruising offers one of the best and often the only way to island-hop and explore numerous places in a single trip. So, even if you’re not typically a cruiser, you might discover that Caribbean cruises are the perfect way to tick off destinations from your Caribbean bucket list.
Day 1: Departure – Miami, Florida
1.Arrive Early for Your Cruise: Why and Where
2.Flying into your departure city a few days before your cruise start date offers several advantages:
Flight Contingencies: If your flight is delayed or, worse yet, canceled, you can rearrange your travel plans and still make it to your cruise, even if you miss a night or two at the hotel.
Florida’s Major Cruise Ports and Nearby Airports
Florida hosts four major cruise ports, each conveniently located near airports:
Port of Miami: Situated in Miami, South Florida, it’s approximately 3.5 km (2 miles) from downtown Miami, 9 km (6 miles) from South Beach, and 16 km (10 miles) from Miami International Airport (MIA).
Port Everglades: Found in Fort Lauderdale, South Florida, it’s about 6 km (4 miles) from downtown Fort Lauderdale and 5 km (3 miles) from Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL). It’s also approximately 45 km (28 miles) north of Miami.
Port Canaveral: Located on the east coast of Central Florida, it’s around 82 km (51 miles) east of downtown Orlando and 75 km (46 miles) from Orlando International Airport (MCO).
Port Tampa Bay: Situated on the west coast of Central Florida, it’s about 9 km (6 miles) from downtown Tampa and 16 km (10 miles) from Tampa International Airport (TPA). Additionally, it’s 130 km (85 miles) from Orlando International Airport and 230 km (140 miles) from Southwest Florida International Airport (Fort Myers).
3.Explore the ship, attend a welcome cocktail party, and settle into your cabin.
Day 2: At Sea
1.Enjoy a full day at sea, taking advantage of onboard amenities such as pools, spa treatments, fitness centers, and entertainment.
What to Do on Sea Days During Your Cruise
If you’re new to cruising and see sea days on your itinerary, you might wonder how to make the most of a day when your ship remains in the open ocean without any port stops. Here’s what you can do:
1. Fun in the Sun: Many cruisers flock to the pool deck and sunning areas on sea days. Get there early to secure your preferred lounge chair. Whether you want to be near the main pool with live music, movies, and games, or you seek a quieter spot away from the crowd, plan accordingly.
2. Spa and Beauty Treatments: Sea days are ideal for spa indulgences. Book a massage, manicure, facial, or other treatments. Make reservations early, but consider scheduling spa appointments on quieter port days to potentially save money with discounts.
3. Fitness Classes: If you’re into fitness, consider specialty classes like spinning, cardio kickboxing, or TRX training in the ship’s fitness center. These classes can fill up fast, so book them early in your cruise.
4. Casino Fun: On port days, the ship’s casino is closed, but it comes alive on sea days. Look for special tournaments like poker and Texas hold ’em. Bingo is another popular sea-day activity; arrive early to secure a seat and join the fun.
Day 3: Grand Cayman
1.Arrive in Grand Cayman
2.Explore George Town, visit Stingray City for a snorkeling adventure, or relax on Seven Mile Beach
1.Experience Stingray City in Grand Cayman on Your Caribbean Cruise
If your Caribbean cruise includes a stop in Grand Cayman, you’re likely to hear about Stingray City. This unique experience is a must-consider shore excursion in the Cayman Islands.
2.So, what exactly is Stingray City?
It’s not a city in the traditional sense; it’s actually a sandbar in the middle of the ocean, not too far from the Cayman Islands coastline. Here, you’ll find a shallow area where you can easily stand, walk, and swim. It’s a natural habitat for stingrays, and they frequent the area.
During your Stingray City excursion, you’ll take a boat to this spot and have the chance to interact with these fascinating creatures. You’ll be provided with snorkeling gear, so you don’t need to pack it for your cruise.
Stingray City excursions are available through most major cruise lines, including Carnival, Royal Caribbean, Norwegian, Princess, and Disney. Plus, you can customize your experience with options like additional snorkeling, visits to a turtle farm, or kayaking in the Cayman mangroves. It’s an adventure you won’t want to miss!
Day 4: Cozumel, Mexico
1.Dock in Cozumel
2.Choose from activities like visiting Mayan ruins, snorkeling in crystal-clear waters, or exploring Cozumel’s vibrant downtown.
1.Cozumel: A Premier Cruise Ship Destination Worldwide
Cozumel consistently secures its place among the most sought-after cruise ship destinations globally, featuring prominently in virtually every Western Caribbean cruise itinerary. Nestled just off the Yucatan Peninsula, Cozumel’s strategic location allows for easy access, making it a feasible day’s journey from numerous embarkation points in the southeastern United States. Cruise ships departing from Cozumel can set sail southward to explore Belize and Roatan or head eastward to visit Grand Cayman and Jamaica. With the capacity to host more than five cruise ships daily, it’s not uncommon for this destination to welcome over 20,000 tourists each day.
2.Cozumel: A Multitude of Exciting Activities
Cozumel offers an array of exciting activities to cater to diverse interests, making it a favorite return destination for many cruise enthusiasts. While some opt for leisurely beach days, exhilarating snorkeling tours, or unforgettable encounters with dolphins, others seek adventure through off-roading expeditions and exploration of the island’s captivating attractions. Additionally, Cozumel presents excellent shopping opportunities, ensuring that those in search of unique souvenirs won’t be disappointed.
Day 5: Belize City, Belize
1.Arrive in Belize City
2.Embark on an excursion to explore ancient Mayan ruins like Altun Ha or go cave tubing in the jungle.
Situated at the base of the Yucatan Peninsula, Belize beckons travelers with a treasure trove of attractions. Within the country’s lush rainforests lie the remnants of the ancient Mayan civilization, punctuated by intriguing ruins. This verdant expanse also serves as a habitat for an eclectic array of tropical wildlife, from elusive jaguars and ocelots to vibrant keel-billed macaws and resonating howler monkeys. Off the coast, the world’s second-largest barrier reef beckons divers to explore its vibrant underwater realms. Belize, with its laid-back ambiance stemming from its British colonial history, feels more akin to a tranquil Caribbean island than a bustling Central American nation.
1.Mayan Ruins
Belize was once the heartland of the ancient Maya civilization. The country boasts the remnants of early Mayan cities dating back to 2000 B.C., and during the zenith of the Mayan Empire, its population swelled to an impressive two million.
2.Cave Tubing
Embark on a serene aquatic adventure as your trusty inner tube carries you through the sacred underworld of the ancient Mayans, gliding beneath awe-inspiring stalactites and past dramatic cave formations.
3.Belize Zoo
Wander along paths that wind through 29 acres of pristine jungle, affording visitors the opportunity to encounter over 125 indigenous Belizean animals, including jaguars, ocelots, storks, howler monkeys, tapirs, crocodiles, and more.
4.Snorkeling & Diving
Discover four captivating cayes, accessible by boat from Belize City. Belize’s Barrier Reef and its three atolls promise exceptional wall dives and snorkeling experiences.
Day 6: Roatan, Honduras
1.Dock in Roatan
2.Spend the day at a beautiful beach, go snorkeling, or take a canopy tour through the lush rainforest.
1.Discover Roatan: Honduras’ Tropical Paradise
Roatan, the largest of Honduras’ Bay Islands, is a tropical paradise known for its pristine coral reefs, beautiful beaches, and lush landscapes. Its history includes visits from Christopher Columbus and periods of British and Spanish control. Today, it’s a rapidly developing destination with stunning natural beauty and a welcoming community of around 30,000 people.
Iguana Farm: Located near French Cay, this family-owned iguana farm is a renowned attraction, home to over 2,700 iguanas that freely roam the property, providing excellent photo opportunities.
Anthony’s Key Resort: At this recreational and educational marine facility, experience the excitement of a dolphin encounter, offering a unique chance to interact with playful dolphins in their natural habitat.
Snorkeling & Diving: Explore an underwater museum of sunken treasures, shipwrecks, and Mayan artifacts, or experience the thrill of scuba diving in the open sea alongside friendly bottlenose dolphins.
Beaches: Roatan offers a paradise-like experience with excellent beach options. The warm, crystal-clear waters teem with colorful fish, and in most locations, snorkeling is easily accessible right from the shore.”
Day 7: Costa Maya, Mexico
1.Arrive in Costa Maya
2.Explore the Maya ruins of Chacchoben, unwind at a beach club, or enjoy water sports like kayaking and paddleboarding.
1.Mahahual: Gateway to Costa Maya’s Mayan History.
Mahahual, a tranquil fishing village, offers access to the rich Mayan history of Costa Maya. In this lush Yucatan region, the ancient Mayans thrived, creating intricate stone cities with pyramids and precise calendars. Explore the remnants of Kohunlich, Dzibanché, and Chacchoben, where this captivating civilization once flourished.
Chacchoben Mayan Ruins:Known as the “place of red corn,” these astonishing ruins, located south of Tulum, date back to the 4th century. Explore the circular pathways, stand before the three imposing pyramids, and contemplate the enigmatic hieroglyphics.
Uvero Beach Club:A visit to one of Costa Maya’s most luxurious resorts allows you to bask in the sun on a comfortable lounger, unwind in a hammock, take a refreshing swim in the ocean, engage in beach volleyball, and savor the offerings of the restaurants and bars.
Beaches:This section of the Yucatan is renowned for its unspoiled beaches. The charming town of Mahahual is nestled along a picturesque stretch of white sand kissed by turquoise waters.
Day 8: At Sea
1.Another day at sea to relax and take advantage of the ship’s amenities.
Day 9: Cozumel, Mexico (Second Visit)
1.Return to Cozumel for another day of exploration or relaxation.
2.Consider diving or snorkeling at one of Cozumel’s famous reefs.
Day 10: Return to Miami, Florida
1.Disembark in Miami, concluding your Caribbean cruise adventure.
Additional Resources:
- Royal Caribbean Official Website: Visit the official website of Royal Caribbean to explore a wide range of Caribbean cruise options, itineraries, and special promotions.
- Caribbean Cruises: Discover Royal Caribbean’s Caribbean cruise offerings, including detailed itineraries, onboard experiences, and booking information.
- Cruise Planner: Use the Cruise Planner tool to customize your Caribbean cruise experience by booking excursions, specialty dining, and more before your voyage.
- Cruise Deals and Promotions: Stay updated on the latest cruise deals, promotions, and discounts offered by Royal Caribbean for Caribbean cruises.
These resources will provide readers with comprehensive information, allowing them to explore Royal Caribbean’s Caribbean cruise options, plan their itineraries, and book their dream cruise vacation in the Caribbean.