caribbean princess cruise april 2023

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Princess Cruises Details 2023 Caribbean Princess Schedule

Sarah Bretz, Contributor

• May 3, 2021

Princess Cruises has announced its cruising schedule for  Caribbean Princess  in summer 2023. The season will run from April through July roundtrip from Fort Lauderdale. It will feature 11 destinations, 31 departures, and four itineraries ranging in length from seven to 14 days.

Eastern Caribbean

Eastern Caribbean With Bahamas:  Seven nights visiting Princess Cays, St. Maarten, and St. Thomas with a late-night stay. Dates: April 8, May 6, June 3, and July 1, 2023.

Eastern Caribbean With Puerto Rico:  Seven nights visiting Princess Cays, San Juan, and Grand Turk. Dates: April 22, May 20, June 17, and July 15, 2023.

Western Caribbean

Western Caribbean With Grand Cayman:  Seven nights visiting Grand Cayman, Roatán, Belize City, and Cozumel. Dates: April 1, 15, and 29; May 13 and 27; June 10 and 24; and July 8, 2023.

READ MORE:  Princess Cruises Wants Remote Workers On Its Ships

Eastern and Western Caribbean

Caribbean East-West Adventurer With St. Thomas & St. Maarten:  14 nights visiting Grand Cayman, Roatán, Belize City, Cozumel, Princess Cays, St. Maarten, and St. Thomas with a late-night stay. Dates: April 1, 8, and 29; May 6 and 27; June 3 and 24; and July 1, 2023.

Caribbean East-West Adventurer With Grand Turk & Amber Cove:  14 nights visiting Grand Cayman, Roatán, Belize City, Cozumel, Princess Cays, San Juan, Grand Turk, and Amber Cove. Dates: April 15 and 22; May 13 and 20; June 10 and 17; and July 8, 2023.

More Information

All passengers sailing on eastern Caribbean cruises will visit the line’s private island resort, Princess Cays, for a day of fun water activities and time at the beach. MedallionNet wifi featuring fast connectivity is also available at Princess Cays, perfect for cruisers who may take advantage of an oceanfront office for the day, or to share photos and videos with friends and family back home.

Exclusive Discovery and Animal Planet shore excursions will offer immersive experiences for the whole family, such as visiting the Mayan Ruins at Tulum or the Belize Barrier Reef. Island adventures also abound, such as snorkeling, feeding stingrays, zip-lining, or going for a catamaran ride.

Caribbean Princess  features a variety of family-friendly amenities onboard, such as The Reef Outdoor Splash Zone with water activities for kids, Movies Under the Stars showing first-run movies, sports competitions, and a variety of specialty and quick-service dining for all taste buds.

These  Caribbean Princess  voyages open for booking on May 5, 2021. Princess Past guests are eligible for a special Captain’s Circle launch discount of up to $100 per person. The offer expires October 31, 2021.

READ NEXT:  Princess Reveals 2022-23 Mexican Riviera And Hawaii Cruises

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Caribbean Princess

Cruise line Princess Cruises

• Fort Lauderdale (Port Everglades, Florida)
• Port Canaveral (Orlando, Florida)
• Vancouver (BC Canada)
• Southampton (England)
• Whittier (Alaska)

Caribbean Princess current position

Caribbean Princess current location is at Caribbean Sea (coordinates 20.71529 N / -86.84343 W) cruising at speed of 12.6 kn (23 km/h | 14 mph) en route to USPEF>MXCZM. The AIS position was reported 3 minutes ago.

Current itinerary of Caribbean Princess

Caribbean Princess current cruise is 7 days, round-trip Western Caribbean with Mexico . Prices start from USD 1188 (double occupancy rates). The itinerary starts on 20 Apr, 2024 and ends on 27 Apr, 2024 .

Specifications of Caribbean Princess

•   Itineraries
•   Review
•   Wiki

Caribbean Princess Itineraries

Caribbean princess review, review of caribbean princess.

The 2004-built Caribbean Princess cruise ship is the 6th Grand-class Princess Cruises liner, with sisterships Crown , Diamond , Golden (Pacific Adventure) , Grand , Emerald , Ruby , Star (Pacific Encounter) and Sapphire .

The vessel (IMO number 9215490) is currently Bermuda- flagged (MMSI 310423000) and registered in Hamilton .

History - construction and ownership

Princess Cruises is a USA-based passenger shipping company headquartered in Beverly Hills CA. A former subsidiary of P&O Princess Cruises (1977-founded), in 2003, the company merged with Carnival Corporation - the world's largest cruise shipowner. Among Princess Cruise Lines Ltd's assets is the Caribbean private island resort Princess Cays (on Bahamas Eleuthera Island's southern end), located approx 80 km (50 mi) from Nassau .

The 2600-passenger ship Caribbean Princess underwent a major drydock refit in early 2009 when were added facilities available on the younger fleet mates Crown, Emerald and Ruby. Now passengers spend hours sitting in the cosy, patio-style seating places, sipping coffee, reading, playing board games and watching occasional performers, ranging from a Cirque-type cube-spinner to a BMX biker. The new Piazza-Vines Wine Bar is the place to try over thirty wines by the glass while snacking on artisan cheeses, sushi and tapas. Of the changes, the most remarkable and appreciated, is the transformation of the former atrium into a new 3-deck-high, street-cafe-style Piazza - home to the International Cafe (a combination bakery, deli and coffee shop), Vines Wine & Seafood Bar, the Internet Cafe & Library, and an amusement zone.

Decks and Cabins

Most Caribbean Princess staterooms (1569 total, in 34 grades) are 170-ft2 balcony cabins (675). Almost 80% of the outside accommodations have private step-out balconies. Wheelchair-accessible cabins are 25. The largest accommodations are the Grand Suites (615 ft2 / 57 m2 with terrace sized 115 ft2 / 11 m2).

The boat has 18 decks , of which 15 are passenger-accessible and 9 with cabins.

Shipboard dining options - Food and Drinks

Caribbean Princess features three dining rooms, all with twinkling lights on their ceilings and tasteful, Caribbean-themed menu. The Palm is for fixed-seating dining, while Island and Coral are for passengers who have chosen "Anytime Dining". Reservations are available but are not required. Coral also welcomes guests for waiter-service breakfast and lunch. Rotating menu options include soups, appetizers, mains and desserts. There are also signature pasta and choices like Caesar salad and salmon. The healthy Lotus Spa selections are low in sodium and fat. Cafe Caribe and Horizon Court look identical and are open all day long. The Horizon section serves as a lido buffet restaurant and features breakfast buffets. Lunch choices may include unusual dishes like peanut butter sandwiches and fried bananas. 

Follows the complete list of Caribbean Princess restaurants and food bars.

• Island Restaurant (ship's aft Dining Room; dinner only - offers “Anytime Dining” between 5:30 p.m. -10 p.m.)
• Crown Grill (160-seat steakhouse/seafood restaurant, reservations recommended; on select days serves British Pub Lunch, complimentary)
• Coral Restaurant (ship's forward Dining Room for Breakfast 7-9 a.m., Lunch 12-1:30 p.m., Afternoon Tea 3:30-4:30 p.m.; features “Anytime Dining” for Dinner between 5:30-8 p.m. or 8-10 p.m.)
• Palm Restaurant (dinner only aft Dining Room; with 2 fixed seatings at 6 p.m. or 8:15 p.m.)
• Sabatini’s Restaurant (Italian specialty restaurant; reservations recommended)
• The Salty Dog Grill (replacing Trident Grill, self-service, complimentary fast food bar)
• World Fresh Marketplace (replacing Horizon Court, self-service buffet restaurant, complimentary)
• Planks BBQ and Steamers Seafood (replacing Cafe Caribe, aft self-service buffet restaurant)
• Slice (formerly Pizzeria, with west and East Coast offerings, classic Neapolitan-style pizza)
• Coffee & Cones (formerly Scoops, offers free ice cream cones, treats of gourmet ice cream sandwiches, specialty coffee)

In April 2024 Princess Cruises announced that starting September 14th (2024) fleetwide would be introduced 3 distinct main dining/dinner table service options – Traditional, Reservable, and Walk-in Anytime. By the new program (introduced with Sun Princess) on each ship are allocated 3 separate dining rooms - one for Traditional dining (offering early and late dinner seating), one with Reservable times, and one for Walk-in Anytime (open-seating). The new options are integrated with the OceanNow service, allowing anything to be ordered anytime, and delivered anywhere onboard.

Shipboard entertainment options - Fun and Sport

The Princess Theater is the main venue on Caribbean Princess for comedy acts and production shows with a variety of music and selections appealing to a broad mix of ages. Each of the ship's venues has a different offering. Crooners feature music trivia contests and a pianist. Explorer's Lounge hosts events for everything from Wii sports tournaments to art auctions, plus comedy shows and magicians.

The Piazza offers various demonstrations, circus-lite acts and musical performances throughout the day. 

Club Fusion is a part game show, part nightclub venue. Skywalker Nightclub, Princess' trademark, hosts the 70s-, the 80s- and the 90s-inspired nights and a few nights with a variety of modern music.

For low-key dancing, head to the Wheelhouse Bar, which hosts combos playing standards and soft rock.

Follows the complete list of Caribbean Princess lounges, clubs and other entertainment venues for kids, teens and adults.

• The Piazza Atrium (3-deck open floor area; features live performances entertainment and lobby Bar Piazza)
• Princess Fine Arts Gallery; Photo Gallery & Shop; Platinum Studio
• International Cafe (24-hour specialty coffee bar and patisserie)
• Vines Bar (wine/seafood/sushi bar)
• Library (with Internet stations); Internet Cafe (24-hour)
• Princess Caribbean Theatre (2-level musical and show productions; hosts workshops, seminars, game shows)
• Churchill Lounge & Bar (smoking lounge and sports bar)
• Calypso Cove Shop; Essence Shop; Limelight Shop; Meridian Bay Shop; Facets Shop
• Princess Caribbean Grand Casino
• Crooners Lounge & Bar (live music; also used for seminars)
• Explorers Lounge & Bar (disco/show lounge; hosts karaoke, comedy, game shows and art auctions)
• Wheelhouse Bar (piano bar during the day and an English pub nightly).
• Club Fusion Lounge (hosts dance classes and quizzes, after 7:30 p.m. becomes Disco & Nightclub)
• Scoops Bar (Sundaes Ice Cream Bar, complimentary)
• Outrigger Bar (poolside bar); Tradewinds Bar
• Caribbean’s Lotus Spa complex; Beauty Salon; Fitness Center (with Aerobics Studio)
• Hearts & Minds (Wedding Chapel)
• Movies Under the Stars (LED screen outdoor cinema)
• Video Games Arcade; Teen Center; Youth Center with Paddling Pool and outdoor playing areas
• The Sanctuary (adult-only open-air area)
• Camp Discovery (Youth Center)
• Calypso Reef & Pool area; Neptune’s Reef & Pool area; Pirate’s View Pool area (served by Morgan’s Bar)
• The Skywalker (Jogging Track); Sports Court (volleyball, basketball, European football); Princess Links mini golf course, Cybergolf simulator
• Skywalkers Disco & Nightclub

Reef Splash Zone (kids aquapark / without waterslides) was added during drydock refurb 2019. Read more in the ship's Wiki section .

Itineraries

Caribbean Princess itinerary program is based on seasonal deployment in Europe (voyages out of Southampton England UK ) and in the Caribbean (roundtrips from Port Canaveral/Fort Lauderdale Florida USA ). When changing regions (in spring and fall), the ship offers 2-week-long Transatlantic crossings between Europe and the USA (RepositionCruises.com).

Caribbean Princess - user reviews and comments

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Other Princess Cruises cruise ships

• Coral Princess
• Crown Princess
• Diamond Princess
• Discovery Princess
• Emerald Princess
• Enchanted Princess
• Grand Princess
• Island Princess
• Majestic Princess
• Regal Princess
• Royal Princess
• Ruby Princess
• Sapphire Princess
• Sky Princess
• Star Princess
• Sun Princess

Caribbean Princess Wiki

Princess Cruises Caribbean ship belongs to company's Grand-class liners ( Fincantieri Monfalcone -built), with (same-designed) sisterships Crown  and  Emerald . The ship is slightly bigger than the other (similarly-designed) Grand-Class liners  Star (now Pacific Encounter) ,  Golden (now Pacific Adventure)  and  Grand . The reason for this is the additional cabin deck (Riviera Deck). The vessel also has no sliding roof to cover the swimming pool area as this liner was planned for exclusively Caribbean itineraries.

Ship's christening ceremony was on April 2, 2004, held in  Fort Lauderdale (Port Everglades, Florida) , from where also started the inaugural cruise (maiden voyage). Ship's godmother was Jill Whelan - US actress, best known for her role of Vicki Stubing in the 80's TV series "The Love Boat". The vessel was the biggest one in the fleet right until June 2013, when Royal Princess  entered into service.

Fun fact: Caribbean Princess is the first cruise vessel to have an open-air theatre/ outdoor movie screen (named "Movies under the Stars").

Ship's European maiden season was based on homeport Southampton England . Then, it was repositioned to  NYC New York  to operate Fall Foliage cruises to New England, then relocated back to Fort Lauderdale for roundtrip Caribbean itineraries. In April 2013, the liner was deployed back to Europe for the British Isles and various Northern European itineraries in Baltic Sea.

In early-September 2018, Caribbean Princess became fleet's first vessel with installed  Carnival Corporation's OceanMedallion technology  (wearable devices allowing passengers access to "virtual concierge" services and amenities, as well as interactive entertainment). The new technology also includes the MedallionNet - Wi-Fi connectivity via access points installed in every stateroom. Passengers on MedallionClass cruise liners experience land-like connection quality allowing streaming of movies, music, videos, video phone calls, real-time sharing on social media platforms.

Panama Canal cruise itineraries 2017

In 2017, Caribbean Princess made her maiden season of  Panama Canal transition cruises  through the new locks. The ship operated on the 10-day itinerary (with partial transits through the new Agua Clara locks) on roundtrips from  Fort Lauderdale (Port Everglades, Florida) . The ship's first ever transit was on October 26, 2017. Prices started from USD 1250 pp (double occupancy). This voyage also celebrated Princess Cruises' 50th anniversary of the 1967 crossing (world's first ever on passenger ship).

The fleet mates  Coral  and  Island  continued to transit the canal through the 3 old locks (Pedro Miguel, Miraflores, Gatun). The new locks were officially inaugurated on June 26, 2016. They are the result of a 9-year (USD 5,2 billion) construction project.

USA to Greenland itinerary 2019

A new Greenland cruise roundtrip from USA (NYC New York ) was revealed in January 2018 for the Princess Cruises Caribbean ship.

• The cruise departure was scheduled for August 19, 2019.
• The 16-days long itinerary's ports of call were in Greenland (Nanortalik, Nuuk, Qaqortoq) and Canada (Halifax, Sydney, St Johns).
• Cruise prices started from USD 2,500 pp (double occupancy Inside Cabin rate) plus additional USD 220 in Gov taxes and port fees.

Caribbean Princess refurbishment 2019 review

During drydock 2019 refurbishment (in June, done in Freeport Bahamas ) on the ship was installed fleet's first-ever waterpark - Reef Splash Zone (without waterslides!). Located aft-portside on Deck 17/Sports Deck (beneath the ramp leading to Skywalkers Nightclub on Deck 18), the water park was added as a new section to the original aft swimming pool (Pirate's View). The redesigned area now includes a large-sized Splashpad (outdoor water playground) fitted with splash pool, water cannons, water sprays, showers, interactive whale-like structure (with a "raining" fluke). The surrounding lounging area (designed for families with kids) was updated with new patio furniture (comfortable sectionals, chairs, sunloungers, padded garden couches with tables), new fixtures and finishes. The existing swimming pool, whirlpool hot tub (large outdoor Jacuzzi) and poolside bar (Morgan's Bar) were also renovated.

The newly-added Game Zone hosts family fun competitions and features oversized backyard games (the likes of Jenga, Cornhole, Connect Four). At Morgan's Bar (kids-friendly) parents can enjoy mocktails and cocktails. The surrounding lounge area is furnished with comfortable sectionals. The water-park is protected by wind panels (throughout the area) while its Shade Canopy (aft-starboard) is a sun-protected seating area covered with canvas canopies. The music system and lighting were upgraded (to the steps and swimming pool) and new wall lighting was installed for the evening open-deck parties, activities (including stargazing and educational kids programs) and themed events.

On Deck 16, the Spa complex (forward) was renovated, redesigned and updated with contemporary artworks and signage. On Deck 16 aft, at Camp Discovery Youth Center (kids-only complex for children 3-12 yo), the Outdoor Play Area was upgraded with an interactive water table for current itinerary/destination-themed fun activities.

Caribbean Princess refurbishment 2017 review

During the ship's 2017 drydock refurbishment (March 25 - April 5, done in Freeport Bahamas) resulted in the following deckplan changes:

• New kids area ("Camp Discovery" / kids and teen center) was added aft on deck 17.
• Pool deck's MUTS screen ("Movies Under the Stars" / 850-seat outdoor movie theatre) was upgraded.
• The number of interconnecting cabins (for families) was increased with an additional 87 pairs.
• (Lido Deck 15) "Horizon Court" was replaced by "World Fresh Marketplace". The ship's new buffet restaurant now has new decor, improved layout and more food options. Breakfast includes 24-hour cereal station, designer pancake station, hot cereal choices (like shrimp & grits and polenta porridge). Lunch includes hand-crafted sandwiches, regionally-inspired soups, a wide selection of meats (sausages, hams, roasted). Dinner includes family comfort foods, PB&J bar ("Peanut Butter and Jelly").  Nighttime buffet offerings include live-action cooking station (stir-fry, customized pasta, salads).
• (Lido Deck 15) the ship now has 2 casual specialty restaurants formed from the old "Cafe Caribe". Both restaurants are designed for families with kids. The first at-fee restaurant ("Planks BBQ") serves family-style meat planks (ribs, beef, sausages, chicken) plus sides (fries, chili, coleslaw, charred toast, dill pickles).  Dinner here is served and costs USD 12 pp.  Free buffet-style breakfast and lunch here include customizable breakfast bowls, signature soup, fresh-made salads, fork & knife sandwiches. The second at-fee restaurant ("Steamers Seafood" offers steamers with regionally sourced seafood (Black and Blue Mussels, Scallops and Sausage, Classic Clams, Crab-stuffed Flounder).  Dinner is served and costs USD 12 pp.  Free buffet-style breakfast and lunch choices include egg dishes and ramen bowls.
• Following the 2017 refurbishment, the ship's pool deck (15) offers 4 outdoor dining options. "The Salty Dog Grill" (formerly "Trident Grill") offers “The Ernesto” burger (best at sea), other specialty beef burgers (with handmade patties and buns), also Street Tacos (with grilled chipotle-lime chicken or roasted sweet potato, corn tortillas), fries and classic hot dogs. "Slice Pizzeria" (formerly "Prego Pizzeria") offers Neapolitan-style pizzas, Deep Dish Focaccia (with marinara, meatballs, cheese), California Artisanal Toast, Sliced Stromboli (calzone filled with deli meats and cheese). "Coffee & Cones" (formerly "Scoops Bar") offers gourmet ice cream sandwiches, free ice cream cones, specialty coffees and teas. "THE MIX" (formerly "Blackbeard’s Bar") / poolside drinks bar) was updated and redesigned.
• The specialty Italian Trattoria restaurant Sabatini’s (formerly "SHARE by Curtis Stone", on Promenade Deck 7) was redesigned, debuting a new menu with antipasti and handmade pasta dishes by celebrity chef Angelo Auriana, Sabatini’s new menu was implemented fleetwide in 2017. Angelo Auriana is an Executive Chef and partner in the Los Angeles' Italian restaurants "The Factory Kitchen" and "Officine BRERA". Chef Auriana's dishes are based on using old-world grains (like buckwheat and durum wheat) giving them the protein strength necessary to keep the house-made pasta's shape. He also uses numerous non-traditional herbs (like mints and marjoram).

All stateroom beds (a total of 3200 units) were replaced with the company's signature "Princess Luxury Beds”.

Carnival's Ocean Medallion technology was installed in September 2018.

Caribbean Princess - April 22, 2023

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April 22, 2023

April 22 - 29, 2023

Caribbean Princess

Princess Cruises

7 Night Eastern Caribbean Islander

from Ft. Lauderdale, Florida

The April 22, 2023 cruise on the Caribbean Princess departs from Ft. Lauderdale, Florida. On this 7 Night Eastern Caribbean Islander sailing, the ship will visit a total of 5 different cruise port destinations, including its departure port. The Caribbean Princess sets sail on a Saturday (April 22, 2023) and returns on a Saturday (April 29, 2023).

The Caribbean Princess was built in 2004 and is amoung Princess's 17 ships in it's fleet. The Caribbean Princess is included in the cruise line's Grand Class. In the cruise ship stats below you'll find the Caribbean Princess vs all other Princess ships.

All Itineraries

Ft. Lauderdale

Ft. Lauderdale has 23 miles of beaches, 300 miles of inland waterways and swimming pools galore, but immersing yourself in this city doesn't require a drop of water. Dive into a culture as deep as any ocean, a culture characterized by Seminoles and Broadway shows, golf and whimsical water taxis, fine cuisine and tasty jazz. And just like the horizon here, the list of attractions goes on and on.

Ft. Lauderdale has 23 miles of beaches, 300 miles of inland waterways and swimming pools galore, but immersing yourself in this city doesn't require a drop of water. Dive into a culture as deep as any...

Princess Cays

Princess Cays is a private beach resort located on the southern tip of Eleuthera Island in the Bahamas. It is owned by Princess Cruises and is exclusively available to their guests. The resort covers over 40 acres and features pristine white sand beaches, crystal clear turquoise waters, and a lush tropical landscape. The beach is surrounded by coral reefs, making it an ideal location for snorkeling and scuba diving.

Princess Cays is a private beach resort located on the southern tip of Eleuthera Island in the Bahamas. It is owned by Princess Cruises and is exclusively available to their guests. The resort covers...

Take advantage of the many on board activites during your day at sea. You'll have more than enough to fill your day!

The fortress of El Morro guards the harbor against long-gone Sir Francis Drake and his British privateers. The colorful streets of Old San Juan retain the Latin flavor of its seafaring past, when this was the heart of the Spanish Main. Sample the fiery rum made here, or indulge in an icy treat made from fresh tropical fruit and enjoy the Caribbean atmosphere.

The fortress of El Morro guards the harbor against long-gone Sir Francis Drake and his British privateers. The colorful streets of Old San Juan retain the Latin flavor of its seafaring past, when this...

Grand Turk Island

• Princess Cruises

Review of Caribbean Princess April 15 - 22, 2023

By sns1 , April 26, 2023 in Princess Cruises

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10 minutes ago, sns1 said: Background - This was my husband and my 30th cruise.   Arrival - Princess had e-mailed us that our arrival time was now at 12:30 p.m. because of the cleaning from noro.  We arrived at the time and checked in.  Our room wasn't ready until 2:30 p.m.  We went to have lunch but needed to bring our luggage with us.  We do carry on luggage.   Room - We were in vista suite - C750.  We originally booked a mini suite on the dolphin deck but put in the lowest bid for a vista suite and were notified a couple of weeks before the cruise that it was accepted.  We felt it was worth it.   We met our room steward right away and he told us that he was responsible for ALL the suites in the aft area.  This was not just the Caribe deck but all aft suites.  He did have a helper but we rarely saw them.  We would leave a note and things were taken care of but we could tell that he had a lot on his plate.   The room was tidied up twice a day.   We miss having a little pad of paper and pen.  Why was that done away with?????   International Cafe - we like this area but not sure why the coffee area is not larger.  There needs to be a line for just plain coffee.  I felt bad for people who stood in line for food and then had to stand in line for coffee.  This area can get quite busy at times.    Premium Desserts - Princess needs to do away with this.  We tried it but would never order again.  It took forever to get the sundae and it was NOTHING special.  The ice cream is just plain vanilla ice cream......not premium ice cream.  The chocolate tasted like chocolate sauce....not hot fudge.  We threw away the lollipop.  I don't understand the small bottles of liquor.  We asked for Kahlua in the sundae and they poured it into a container for us.  The girl asked for our room number because there was a charge and we said that we already paid but the girl insisted on getting our cabin number.  We refused and then they just threw out the Kahlua.  People that had placed their orders were hanging around the counter.  It was very crowded.  We never went back.  Not worth the calories, hassle or cost.   We went to Sabitini's for dinner one night.  We had an outstanding meal.  I've always wanted to try Ossobuco.  It was to die for.  So tender and flavorful.  We normally go to Crown Grill but decided to skip it this cruise.    We had club class for dining.  The staff is outstanding.  We had cruised in February and there were quite a few that were still there.  That was nice.  We could always find something that we liked on the menu.  We would go to the buffet or order food to be delivered for lunch.  Breakfast was at Sabitini's.    There were people that were sick with noro on the cruise.  We did not get sick.  We wash our hands, use the liquid and try to stay away from crowds.  We did go to the Princess Theater one evening to see the comedian.  I love to lay in the sun and usually find a lounger on the sun deck, right outside of the Sanctuary.  There was only one day that it was semi busy up there. My husband likes to read up in Skywalkers or on our deck.  I do think the crew tried their best to keep people from getting sick.  I did witness many passengers not washing their hands, they touched the food and did not listen to what the crew asked them to do.  I also saw a child go to the hand washing station and her mother told her that she was ok and didn't need to wash.  The little girl said "but mom, I need to wash my hands".  The mother actually pulled the girl from the sink.   Maybe they weren't going to the buffet.......   We had quite a bit of OBC, so we used it in the casino.  We would have gambled more but the smell of smoke was bad.  Princess use to have 2 non smoking nights during a seven day cruise but every night was smoking night.  We were going to go to bingo during the week but they only had it on the last day.  By then we had used up our OBC.   Getting off the ship was a breeze.  We were one of the first off and we take our own luggage.  Getting to the parking garage was a little challenge but we were good once we found the elevators.    Our only complaints were the coffee line at the International Cafe and the Premium Desserts.

Instead of waiting in a long line for coffee, you could just have a seat and order from one of the bar hosts, who are walking around.  Unless, you were just wanting a to go coffee, maybe?  Or, the IC was too crowded to find a seat?

Thank you for your review. 

SargassoPirate

Ignorant people who don't wash their hands before touching food probably then wonder how they got Niro.   

Key word here is ignorant.

Doesn't really bother me what they do because I wash my hands and break the chain of contamination between the world and what goes into my mouth.

There were no seats and I just wanted a to go cup of coffee.  I would go there after walking in the morning and take the cup to my room. There was an employee there that would pour the coffee into the cup and I would be on my way.  (I did stand in line.....no cutting in line)   There was another employee that would write on the cup that I wanted it black and my name.  He would put me in the line of specialty coffees being made.  I asked if he could just pour the coffee and he said no, I had to wait. 

I have to agree with having a separate line for those of us wanting only fresh brewed coffee. I have stood in line for over 15 min waiting for them to pour one to go cup. The coffee and in the buffet was the syrup kind...disgusting. This was the only place to get drinkable plain coffee. Maybe put that carafe closer to the bar area next to the IC ??

like when I go to a bar, and just want a beer - and the bartender is making all the fancy drinks 

like a majito - oh wait, nevermind, that was for my wife ... I'll just wait

39 minutes ago, PacnGoNow said: Instead of waiting in a long line for coffee, you could just have a seat and order from one of the bar hosts, who are walking around.  Unless, you were just wanting a to go coffee, maybe?  Or, the IC was too crowded to find a seat?   Thank you for your review.     

We were 10 nights on the CB in March and had the same issue.  There were just 2 servers covering the area and empty seats were at a premium.  It was usually easier for the two of us to split up; one getting the food and the other getting the drinks.  Then it was just a matter of finding seats afterwards.  Often that meant sitting across the deck in Vines, which was fine.  There was always confusion because pax couldn’t comprehend that there were 2 lines, one for food and another for coffee.  It wouldn’t take much to come up with a better arrangement.

9 minutes ago, jinpasco said: I have to agree with having a separate line for those of us wanting only fresh brewed coffee. I have stood in line for over 15 min waiting for them to pour one to go cup. The coffee and in the buffet was the syrup kind...disgusting. This was the only place to get drinkable plain coffee. Maybe put that carafe closer to the bar area next to the IC ??

  I’m pretty sure there was another spot, Coffee and Cones up on the Lido deck, where genuine coffee was brewed. A bit of a haul in the morning since we don’t use the elevators.

1 hour ago, sns1 said: Background - This was my husband and my 30th cruise.   Arrival - Princess had e-mailed us that our arrival time was now at 12:30 p.m. because of the cleaning from noro.  We arrived at the time and checked in.  Our room wasn't ready until 2:30 p.m.  We went to have lunch but needed to bring our luggage with us.  We do carry on luggage.   Room - We were in vista suite - C750.  We originally booked a mini suite on the dolphin deck but put in the lowest bid for a vista suite and were notified a couple of weeks before the cruise that it was accepted.  We felt it was worth it.   We met our room steward right away and he told us that he was responsible for ALL the suites in the aft area.  This was not just the Caribe deck but all aft suites.  He did have a helper but we rarely saw them.  We would leave a note and things were taken care of but we could tell that he had a lot on his plate.   The room was tidied up twice a day.   We miss having a little pad of paper and pen.  Why was that done away with?????   International Cafe - we like this area but not sure why the coffee area is not larger.  There needs to be a line for just plain coffee.  I felt bad for people who stood in line for food and then had to stand in line for coffee.  This area can get quite busy at times.    Premium Desserts - Princess needs to do away with this.  We tried it but would never order again.  It took forever to get the sundae and it was NOTHING special.  The ice cream is just plain vanilla ice cream......not premium ice cream.  The chocolate tasted like chocolate sauce....not hot fudge.  We threw away the lollipop.  I don't understand the small bottles of liquor.  We asked for Kahlua in the sundae and they poured it into a container for us.  The girl asked for our room number because there was a charge and we said that we already paid but the girl insisted on getting our cabin number.  We refused and then they just threw out the Kahlua.  People that had placed their orders were hanging around the counter.  It was very crowded.  We never went back.  Not worth the calories, hassle or cost.   We went to Sabitini's for dinner one night.  We had an outstanding meal.  I've always wanted to try Ossobuco.  It was to die for.  So tender and flavorful.  We normally go to Crown Grill but decided to skip it this cruise.    We had club class for dining.  The staff is outstanding.  We had cruised in February and there were quite a few that were still there.  That was nice.  We could always find something that we liked on the menu.  We would go to the buffet or order food to be delivered for lunch.  Breakfast was at Sabitini's.    There were people that were sick with noro on the cruise.  We did not get sick.  We wash our hands, use the liquid and try to stay away from crowds.  We did go to the Princess Theater one evening to see the comedian.  I love to lay in the sun and usually find a lounger on the sun deck, right outside of the Sanctuary.  There was only one day that it was semi busy up there. My husband likes to read up in Skywalkers or on our deck.  I do think the crew tried their best to keep people from getting sick.  I did witness many passengers not washing their hands, they touched the food and did not listen to what the crew asked them to do.  I also saw a child go to the hand washing station and her mother told her that she was ok and didn't need to wash.  The little girl said "but mom, I need to wash my hands".  The mother actually pulled the girl from the sink.   Maybe they weren't going to the buffet.......   We had quite a bit of OBC, so we used it in the casino.  We would have gambled more but the smell of smoke was bad.  Princess use to have 2 non smoking nights during a seven day cruise but every night was smoking night.  We were going to go to bingo during the week but they only had it on the last day.  By then we had used up our OBC.   Getting off the ship was a breeze.  We were one of the first off and we take our own luggage.  Getting to the parking garage was a little challenge but we were good once we found the elevators.    Our only complaints were the coffee line at the International Cafe and the Premium Desserts.

Hello, I am on this cruise next week - interested in how early you got off the ship because I have an early flight home. We are also in an aft suite and we are hoping to be off the ship in the very first group. 

We were off by 7.  Left the parking garage by 7:30 am

You will be allowed to get off first because you are in a suite.

On 4/26/2023 at 6:05 AM, u2harmony said: Hello, I am on this cruise next week - interested in how early you got off the ship because I have an early flight home. We are also in an aft suite and we are hoping to be off the ship in the very first group. 

Regardless of your cabin type, you will sign up for disembarkation times. Last September, we signed up to be in the first group to walk off with our own bags which was 7:30 am

On 4/26/2023 at 8:53 AM, jinpasco said: I have to agree with having a separate line for those of us wanting only fresh brewed coffee. I have stood in line for over 15 min waiting for them to pour one to go cup. The coffee and in the buffet was the syrup kind...disgusting. This was the only place to get drinkable plain coffee. Maybe put that carafe closer to the bar area next to the IC ??

Do they not have it at Coffee & Cones? The line was always much shorter there in the morning than the International Cafe. As long as it was after 6, I went there for lattes every morning 

1 hour ago, Torfamm said: Do they not have it at Coffee & Cones? The line was always much shorter there in the morning than the International Cafe. As long as it was after 6, I went there for lattes every morning 

I believe they did . I never gave it a thought as I had my routine of coffee then our favorite flavored chia ,/ yogurts at breakfast at the IC. I suppose they may have had those at the buffet. May be a better idea to go up next time and see. 

Cruise till you drop

1 hour ago, jinpasco said: I believe they did . I never gave it a thought as I had my routine of coffee then our favorite flavored chia ,/ yogurts at breakfast at the IC. I suppose they may have had those at the buffet. May be a better idea to go up next time and see. 

Not sure why you’re getting lambasted for your coffee service choice.  You reviewed what you did and saw and that should be enough.  I agree it should be quicker for simple orders and maybe larger

Thanks for your review

14 hours ago, nini said: Regardless of your cabin type, you will sign up for disembarkation times. Last September, we signed up to be in the first group to walk off with our own bags which was 7:30 am

In a suite you don't sign up. You get a gold "any time" tag, at least on the Royal Class. Then you just went to the Concierge Lounge when ready.

2 hours ago, jwattle said: In a suite you don't sign up. You get a gold "any time" tag, at least on the Royal Class. Then you just went to the Concierge Lounge when ready.

Good to know! I fear that we will not ever be in that group.

wrongwaywatson

On 4/26/2023 at 7:03 AM, sns1 said: Background - This was my husband and my 30th cruise.   Arrival - Princess had e-mailed us that our arrival time was now at 12:30 p.m. because of the cleaning from noro.  We arrived at the time and checked in.  Our room wasn't ready until 2:30 p.m.  We went to have lunch but needed to bring our luggage with us.  We do carry on luggage.   Room - We were in vista suite - C750.  We originally booked a mini suite on the dolphin deck but put in the lowest bid for a vista suite and were notified a couple of weeks before the cruise that it was accepted.  We felt it was worth it.   We met our room steward right away and he told us that he was responsible for ALL the suites in the aft area.  This was not just the Caribe deck but all aft suites.  He did have a helper but we rarely saw them.  We would leave a note and things were taken care of but we could tell that he had a lot on his plate.   The room was tidied up twice a day.   We miss having a little pad of paper and pen.  Why was that done away with?????   International Cafe - we like this area but not sure why the coffee area is not larger.  There needs to be a line for just plain coffee.  I felt bad for people who stood in line for food and then had to stand in line for coffee.  This area can get quite busy at times.    Premium Desserts - Princess needs to do away with this.  We tried it but would never order again.  It took forever to get the sundae and it was NOTHING special.  The ice cream is just plain vanilla ice cream......not premium ice cream.  The chocolate tasted like chocolate sauce....not hot fudge.  We threw away the lollipop.  I don't understand the small bottles of liquor.  We asked for Kahlua in the sundae and they poured it into a container for us.  The girl asked for our room number because there was a charge and we said that we already paid but the girl insisted on getting our cabin number.  We refused and then they just threw out the Kahlua.  People that had placed their orders were hanging around the counter.  It was very crowded.  We never went back.  Not worth the calories, hassle or cost.   We went to Sabitini's for dinner one night.  We had an outstanding meal.  I've always wanted to try Ossobuco.  It was to die for.  So tender and flavorful.  We normally go to Crown Grill but decided to skip it this cruise.    We had club class for dining.  The staff is outstanding.  We had cruised in February and there were quite a few that were still there.  That was nice.  We could always find something that we liked on the menu.  We would go to the buffet or order food to be delivered for lunch.  Breakfast was at Sabitini's.    There were people that were sick with noro on the cruise.  We did not get sick.  We wash our hands, use the liquid and try to stay away from crowds.  We did go to the Princess Theater one evening to see the comedian.  I love to lay in the sun and usually find a lounger on the sun deck, right outside of the Sanctuary.  There was only one day that it was semi busy up there. My husband likes to read up in Skywalkers or on our deck.  I do think the crew tried their best to keep people from getting sick.  I did witness many passengers not washing their hands, they touched the food and did not listen to what the crew asked them to do.  I also saw a child go to the hand washing station and her mother told her that she was ok and didn't need to wash.  The little girl said "but mom, I need to wash my hands".  The mother actually pulled the girl from the sink.   Maybe they weren't going to the buffet.......   We had quite a bit of OBC, so we used it in the casino.  We would have gambled more but the smell of smoke was bad.  Princess use to have 2 non smoking nights during a seven day cruise but every night was smoking night.  We were going to go to bingo during the week but they only had it on the last day.  By then we had used up our OBC.   Getting off the ship was a breeze.  We were one of the first off and we take our own luggage.  Getting to the parking garage was a little challenge but we were good once we found the elevators.    Our only complaints were the coffee line at the International Cafe and the Premium Desserts.

As a person who gets in the IC Cafe Line and only orders 1 cup of regular coffee, no specialty coffees, no foo foo coffees, just coffee....it would be REALLY nice to have a line for those of us to get just coffee.  It literally takes 10 seconds to pour our coffee.

2 hours ago, wrongwaywatson said: As a person who gets in the IC Cafe Line and only orders 1 cup of regular coffee, no specialty coffees, no foo foo coffees, just coffee....it would be REALLY nice to have a line for those of us to get just coffee.  It literally takes 10 seconds to pour our coffee.

DH and I love the IC, but we have always noticed that the concept/ staff need some training and organization. Whether you like or not the famous coffee chain, they do have a system that works well moat of the time.

RNRcruisers

I have always wished that they had a line for plain coffee at the IC. That being said, when we were on Caribbean Princess in February the line there was not usually too bad, and that was a full ship. The whole atrium area is very small though, not much seating for coffee or evening activities. 

Thank you for the review. I had Ossobuco on the Regal in 2022 and loved it. It was in the MDR. Sadly not offered on the new MDR menus.

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Travel + Leisure’s 2024 It List.

Since 1971, Travel + Leisure editors have followed one mission: to inform, inspire, and guide travelers to have deeper, more meaningful experiences. T+L's editors have traveled to countries all over the world, having flown, sailed, road tripped, and taken the train countless miles. They've visited small towns and big cities, hidden gems and popular destinations, beaches and mountains, and everything in between. With a breadth of knowledge about destinations around the globe, air travel, cruises, hotels, food and drinks, outdoor adventure, and more, they are able to take their real-world experience and provide readers with tried-and-tested trip ideas, in-depth intel, and inspiration at every point of a journey.

Elizabeth Rhodes/Travel + Leisure

For the first time, we’re spotlighting new cruise ships on Travel + Leisure ’s It List, as these exceptional vessels become more and more like floating resorts — celebrity chefs, crystal chandeliers, and Rolex boutiques included.

Explora Journeys’ Explora I

Paul Brady/Travel + Leisure

It’s not every day a new cruise line arrives. The debut of the remarkable Explora I was a moment years in the making for Explora Journeys , the upstart luxury operator that aims to bring a European sensibility to the world of vacations at sea. So far, the project is a smashing success, thanks to the ship’s low-key vibe, standout food and beverage, and intriguing itineraries that visit in-demand ports in Northern Europe, the Mediterranean, and the Caribbean. My own August 2023 trip on Explora I , from Copenhagen to Hamburg, Germany, included fulfilling visits to places such as Oslo and the town of Stavanger, Norway, a gateway to adventurous hiking with a postcard-perfect Old Town. The ship itself was also a destination, with its abundance of outdoor space — including an alfresco fitness center — and pools at seemingly every turn. The 461 suites, all of them with balconies, are filled with luxurious touches such as Frette linens and robes, heated marble floors, and Dyson hair dryers. But Explora I truly shines when it comes to food: During the week I was aboard, it was impossible to find a bad meal — and I was often astonished at the quality of, in particular, the pasta served in the Emporium Marketplace and the sushi on offer at Sakura, two of the nine restaurants aboard. The most ambitious of them all is Anthology, a rotating-chef concept that has seen a residency from seafood whiz Mario Ulaissi, known for his Michelin three-starred restaurant on Italy's Adriatic coast, and that recently welcomed Emma Bengtsson, from Aquavit , in New York City. Much has been made of Explora I ’s Rolex boutique — the first on any cruise ship — but for my money, the other shops on board were more interesting: The company has tapped family-owned businesses around the world to create capsule collections of resort wear, handbags, fragrances, sunglasses, and beautiful gifts that can’t be found elsewhere. From $2,050 per person for a six-day sailing. Accessible ship. — Paul Brady

Oceania Cruises’ Vista

Nick Tortajada/Courtesy of Oceania Cruises

The new Oceania Vista is in a class of its own; no really, it’s the first in Oceania Cruises ’ new Allura class. Of its 11 bars and restaurants, three are entirely new to the Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings–owned brand — including a high-end cocktail spot called Founders’ Bar, serving 26 intricate drinks that use house-made syrups and top-shelf booze like Whistle Pig and parsley-infused Grey Goose. As Oceania levels up, the cruise line has produced a ship that feels more like a floating resort than the vessels that came before. There’s pickleball; a health-conscious restaurant, Aquamar, serving made-to-order salads and pressed juices; and a coffee shop that looks like one in walking distance of my home in L.A. (marble counters, gold accents, leather bar stools) and pulls an espresso shot of similar quality. Vista has more suites than others in the Oceania fleet, too: There are 14 Oceania Suites (up to 1,200 square feet); eight Vista Suites (up to 1,850 square feet); and three Owner’s Suites with Ralph Lauren Home decor and two massive terraces (2,400 square feet). But the most hotel-like touch? A celebrity chef–driven restaurant, Toscana, where Giada De Laurentiis — the ship’s godmother — supplied two recipes for the menu. As someone who watched a lot of Everyday Italian in the early aughts, I was particularly excited to try her signature, Capri-inspired lemon spaghetti, and lemon-cream sauce with grilled shrimp and capers didn’t disappoint. From $2,499 per person for a seven-night sailing. Accessible ship. — Maya Kachroo-Levine

Regent Seven Seas Cruises’ Seven Seas Grandeur

Courtesy of Regent Seven Seas Cruises

Regent Seven Seas Cruises’ sixth ship, the Seven Seas Grandeur , sailed its inaugural season in December, joining sibling ships Seven Seas Explorer and Seven Seas Splendor as the newest member of the luxury fleet. The cruise line is a favorite among T+L readers for its gorgeous ships and all-inclusive pricing that covers unlimited shore excursions, dining at specialty restaurants, and even round-trip airfare. Grandeur lives up to its name thanks to stunning, art-filled spaces designed by cruise ship interior experts Studio Dado: signature restaurant Compass Rose is enchanting with interiors inspired by a fairy-tale forest; the Observation Lounge sparkles with an undulating chandelier and swanky bar; and the $11,000-per-night Regent Suite has a private en suite spa and custom Treesse mini pool. As I boarded Grandeur for the ship’s inaugural sailing, I was mesmerized by the grand staircase and glittering chandelier. And with a maximum capacity of 744 guests, I found it easy to take time to myself in the myriad of quiet spots tucked throughout the ship, whether in the Serene Spa and Wellness area, in the Library, or on the Sports Deck overlooking the ocean. Seven restaurants include specialty steakhouse Prime 7, pan-Asian restaurant Pacific Rim, and breakfast and lunch buffet La Veranda, which refines the cruise buffet experience with daily specials like paella and sushi. Several bars and lounges, a pool and hot tubs, a casino, Broadway-style productions, and cooking classes at the Culinary Arts Kitchen make the ship a destination in itself, though guests will want to take advantage of those included excursions on Caribbean, Central American, North American, and European itineraries, ranging from seven to 16 nights, during the ship’s 2024 season. From $4,669 per person for a seven-night sailing. Accessible ship. — Elizabeth Rhodes

Silversea’s Silver Nova

Courtesy of Silversea Cruises

Carrying 728 passengers, Silver Nova is big for the luxury sector, but boasts a hugely important metric: a capacious passenger space ratio — that is, the number of guests relative to the size of the ship. Simply put, this ship offers more elbow room per passenger than almost any other cruise vessel. Silver Nova is wrapped in glass, with an asymmetrical layout; the funnel is positioned off-center, so is the pool, offering an expansive, uncluttered pool deck. Many features of the brand-new ship recall previous Silversea successes, my favorite of which is the S.A.L.T. (Sea And Land Taste) program, expanded for Silver Nova . S.A.L.T. perks include a gorgeous, sea-facing lab for hands-on culinary lessons (at no additional cost), plus a new concept, the Chef’s Table, where an 11-course menu is prepared for just 24 diners. All facets of the S.A.L.T. ecosystem, including ingredients, a bar, lectures, and shore excursions, are keyed to the region Nova is sailing. While food is a drawing card for Silver Nova , accommodations also received a revamp. Tied to the theme of bringing the outside in, there are brilliant new suites found in the aft starboard corner of the ship, with wraparound balconies revealing a 270-degree view.  This is where you can tuck me in when I win the lottery and head off on a world cruise. But until then, Silver Nova will summer in Alaska and spend northern hemisphere winters in Australia and New Zealand, places where top-deck views should prove ceaselessly rewarding. From $3,250 per person for a seven-night sailing. Accessible ship. — David Swanson

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Eastern Caribbean Cruises

Beaches, azure waters — what comes to mind when you think of cruises to the caribbean.

Best Multi-generational

Cruise Line

2022 Reader’s Choice Award, Porthole Magazine

Picture the Caribbean. Soft sandy beaches, warm winds blowing through palm trees and crystal-clear waters stretching as far as the eye can see. That’s the Eastern Caribbean cruise experience. Enjoy the calm waters around the islands, and snorkel, swim and sail your way through engaging activities. Relax on world-famous beaches, cool drink in hand, for a day of rejuvenation topped off by luxurious shopping. Dive in; the Caribbean is waiting.

Featured Ports Eastern Caribbean Cruise Ports

Get an overview of some of the Eastern Caribbean’s top islands (plus our main departure port).

• Princess Cays®
• St. Maarten
• Ft. Lauderdale

With a half mile of white-sand shoreline and 40 acres of relaxation, shopping and picturesque beaches, Princess Cays is one of the best private Eastern Caribbean cruise line ports in the world. Relax in a private cabana, dive into the dozens of available water activities, explore the gorgeous back roads of Eleuthera in a dune buggy, or indulge in shopping from local craftspeople.

St. Kitts and the neighboring island of Nevis were once considered the crown jewels of the Caribbean, and it's easy to see why. Green hillsides, fields of sugarcane and dramatic volcanoes rise into the strikingly blue sky. With it's beautifully restored colonial buildings, imposing Brimstone Hill Fortress and museum of Alexander Hamilton at his birthplace, the history lovers will have plenty to explore after relaxing on the beautiful beaches on a cruise to St. Kitts.

Two islands in one, St. Maarten is split between France and the Netherlands, but comes together as one memorable experience. From the Dutch-inspired port of Philipsburg with its historic colonial architecture and warm beaches, to the French hub of Marigot full of designer boutiques and bistros, a cruise to St. Maarten has something for you.

Cruise to St. Thomas, an American paradise that contains everything alluring about the Caribbean: sparkling sands, pirate history, snorkeling adventures among coral reefs, shipwreck dives and relaxation taken to the next level with rum punch and island music.

The "Venice of America" has been the premier destination for spring breakers for almost six decades, but don't let that fool you into thinking the city is one big party. From the Everglades, a UNESCO World Heritage Site home to an amazingly rich biosphere, to seven miles of white-sand beaches, Ft. Lauderdale is a beautifully diverse city.

Top-Rated Caribbean Beaches

Trunk bay, st. john.

Named one of  Conde Nast Traveler's  Seven Cruise Wonders of the World, Trunk Bay is stunning beyond words. Snorkel along an underwater coral reef trail, swim through warm clear waters, and lounge on the white sands while looking out on a vista that can only be described as tropical perfection.

Orient Beach & Little Bay Beach, St. Maarten

Two beaches, both with soft sand, warm water and refreshing breezes, make for the perfect day by the ocean. Snorkel with sea life, paddle through the azure waters, or relax on the beach.

Magens Bay, St. Thomas

One of the top 10 beaches in the world according to  National Geographic  magazine, Magens Bay, is known for its picturesque beauty and deep, sheltered bay with calm waters. With a white-sand beach that stretches for three quarters of a mile and gentle waves, you can relax, swim and explore with ease.

What Will You Do on an Eastern Caribbean Cruise?

Get a taste of what life is like in the (is)land of beach beauty and what you can anticipate experiencing here.

Island shore excursions

Experience the best the Eastern Caribbean has to offer with award-winning shore excursions that immerse you in thrilling experiences, unique culinary delights and peaceful rejuvenation. Sail on a tall ship at sunset, snorkel with vibrant sea life through teeming reefs, and explore old shipwrecks near the picturesque coastlines.

Late night departures

The Caribbean has a different feeling at night. Revel in its warm evenings and enticing music with our More Ashore program. Later stays in ports such as St. Thomas and Barbados let you soak up the full Caribbean experience, like a fresh-caught seafood dinner on the beach or street fair full of local crafts and flavors. With More Ashore, you get more time to enjoy the vibrant island nightlife.

Caribbean Cruise Onboard Experience & Featured Program

With award-winning onboard programs, regional cuisine from world-class chefs and celebrations of Caribbean life, Princess makes your ship a destination all its own.

Comfortable accommodations

Your stateroom is your home away from home on your voyage where you rest up and recharge between adventures. With the expertly designed Princess Luxury Bed, luxurious 100% Jacquard-woven cotton linens and specially created SLEEP program by a board-certified sleep expert, you might just get the best sleep of your life. We offer staterooms ranging from interior cabins to full suites, and we even offer connected rooms for families with more than four members traveling together.

Bringing local life aboard

Embrace the spirit of the islands the moment you step on your ship with our Rhythm of the Caribbean program. Savor island cuisine, sip signature cocktails and engage in authentic regional experiences. Dance beneath the stars to vibrant island rhythms at exclusive parties, and immerse yourself in one-of-a-kind cultural activities — from concerts and crafts to talks from shark experts and treasure hunters.

Never miss a beat

Say goodbye to the daily grind with our new Sail Away Party poolside on the top deck, dance to local music at one of the many Caribbean inspired concerts, or be the envy of every pirate at our high-energy gold treasure-inspired Terrace Pool Gold Party. Throughout your cruise to the Caribbean there will be events that excite, enrich and challenge you to fully experience the islands.

Deeper experiences of the islands

Discover the history of local distilleries while sampling some of the region’s best rums, meet the parrots and macaws that call the Caribbean home in the ship's Piazza, or become a part of the rhythm with steel pan drum lessons. Our onboard activities give you the chance to gain a deeper connection and understanding of the gorgeous islands you'll visit on your voyage.

Discovery at Sea

Sharks, pirates and stars — oh my!

Discovery at SEA brings the expertise and excitement of the Discovery Channel™ on board your Caribbean cruise! Enjoy Shark Week all summer long with shark-themed activities, hear tales of sunken treasure and lost shipwrecks from the stars of Travel Channel’s™ Caribbean Pirate Treasure, and explore the constellations and spectacular galaxies of the night sky with the Voyage to the Stars indoor planetarium experience.

Ship Activities for Every Cruise to the Caribbean

Recharging your batteries.

Pamper yourself in the Lotus Spa® with a massage, facial or manicure, and feel renewed. Enjoy The Sanctuary, a lounge just for adults, where you can relax with a light meal, specialty drink and al fresco massages while digging into that novel you've been looking forward to reading. If you prefer your relaxation more active, we offer Zumba, yoga and tai chi classes to burn off stress and raise your heart rate.

Celebrations

The perfect place to celebrate

Almost 30% of all passengers who sail with us are celebrating an important milestone in their lives. Say "I do" at sea in a ceremony officiated by the captain. Arrange for an anniversary package and let us spoil you with romantic balcony dining, chocolates and more. For us, every day is a celebration.

Love blooms on the Love Boat

It's difficult to imagine something more romantic than sailing through the warm waters of the Caribbean, hopping between tropical islands and white-sand beaches from the comfortable luxury of your ship. While on board we cater to your romantic side with private dining on your balcony, whether a relaxing breakfast for two or a romantic sunset dinner, honeymoon packages for lucky newlyweds, flowers and chocolates delivered to your room and couples-only massages in the Sanctuary.

Food & Drinks

The flavors of the islands

The diverse cultural influences, local climates and history of the Caribbean combine to make one of the most exciting and unique regional cuisines in the world. From mofongo, a dish from Puerto Rico made from mashed fried plantains, pork and garlic, to the famous jerk chicken of Jamaica, we serve the Caribbean's favorite flavors to you on board. Thanks to Princess' world-class chefs you'll enjoy fresh, locally inspired dishes for your entire voyage.

Movies Under the Stars®

Outdoor cinema at its best

Enjoy many of the latest movies, exciting concerts and most anticipated live sports games on a massive poolside screen. The warm Caribbean night air, fresh popcorn and comfortable lounge chair with fleece blanket make for a viewing experience like no other. Not to mention the best theater in the world, the Caribbean ocean with a ceiling of stars!

Sailing with your crew

Enjoy a ship full of activities for the whole family, from Broadway-style shows to Discovery’s Shark Week all summer long, your family will be engaged in the Caribbean. Go Stargazing under the stunning expanse of the night sky with Discovery at SEA, compete in a family game night, and savor the flavors of the islands together.

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Travel, Airfare, & Hotels: Let Princess Get You There

Princess EZair® Flights

Stress-free airfare

Remove the hassle from air travel and give yourself the gift of flexibility, time and a thicker wallet with Princess EZair flights. We negotiate lower rates with the airlines, allow you to modify your flight up to 45 days prior with no penalty and protect you if your flight is late or canceled.

EZair flight quotes are available on our cruise search result details pages.

Airplane to Ship Transfer

We get you where you need to go

Let Princess pick you up from the airport and take you directly to your ship or hotel when you arrive, even if you didn't book your airfare through us. A uniformed Princess representative meets you at the airport after you've retrieved your luggage and transports you directly to your ship or hotel without you having to worry about the logistics of navigating a new city.

Cruise Plus Hotel Packages

Stay longer and relax

Extend your cruise vacation, and simplify your travel plans with a hotel stay at the beginning or end of your cruise. With a Cruise Plus Hotel Package, a Princess representative meets you at the airport and pier, transporting you to and from your hotel. The package includes the cost of your hotel stay, transportation, luggage handling and the services of the representative.

Need help planning?

Princess Cruise Vacation Planners are a dedicated resource to help you every step of the way through the planning process of your cruise vacation. And the best part is, they are absolutely FREE!

Cruise deals & promotions

Find our top sales, deals, partnerships and promotions for our destinations all in one place. We run promotions throughout the year and sometimes run sweepstakes where you could win prizes!

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How Much Does a Cruise Cost?

The average cost of a cruise varies by ship, destination, trip length and more. Use this guide to learn more about cruise costs.

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With the rising cost of everything, including travel, cruise fares – some as low as $26 per person per night based on double occupancy – seem like an incredible bargain. And they certainly can be, but the fares you see advertised online often don't include extras like taxes, fees, port expenses, gratuities, shore excursions, specialty dining, alcoholic beverages, specialty coffees, room service fees and more.

Cruise pricing can be confusing with so many variables; unless you're sailing with a smaller luxury line that is all-inclusive , your bill on the day of disembarkation may be unexpected or even shocking. Small things like buying bottled water or renting noodles for floating in the ocean at a cruise line's private island can add up quickly. To help you plan better for a cruise vacation , U.S. News has broken down some of the costs and add-ons you need to take into consideration before booking your next getaway on the high seas.

How much does a one-week cruise cost?

A cruise can cost anywhere from about $171 per person for a four-night Bahamas cruise to up to $94,999 per person for a 154-night world cruise and anywhere in between. Cruise fares vary based on itinerary, number of nights, cabin type, amenities and cruise line. Here are a few examples of base cruise cost ranges on larger cruise lines for various regions:

• A seven-night Caribbean cruise in November costs approximately $424 to $1,158 per person.
• A seven-night Alaska cruise in May costs approximately $244 to $1,632 per person.
• A seven-night Western Mediterranean cruise in June costs approximately $439 to $3,218 per person.
• A seven-night Mexico cruise in January costs approximately $529 to $695 per person.
• A seven-night Canada and New England cruise in October costs approximately $470 to $954 per person.

What's included in the base fare with a larger cruise line?

Mass-market cruise lines such as Royal Caribbean International , Norwegian Cruise Line , MSC Cruises and Carnival Cruise Line – and more upscale lines like Celebrity Cruises , Holland America Line , Cunard Line , Disney Cruise Line and Princess Cruises – advertise "starting from" base fares, which are for inside cabins. These are the least expensive staterooms on the ship, and they do not have windows. Staying in these accommodations still gives you access to all the complimentary dining venues, several types of nonalcoholic beverages (nonbottled water, iced tea, lemonade, juices, hot coffee and tea), the ship's pools, the gym, kids clubs and onboard entertainment.

If you want a room with a view – or a larger stateroom – consider booking an ocean view room with a porthole or window, or a cabin with a balcony or veranda. With these rooms, you'll have access to all the ship's included amenities and typically more spacious accommodations for the week. Of course, this option will come at a higher price point.

No matter which room category you choose, port expenses, taxes and fees are not included in the base fares, and they're automatically added to the cost of your cruise. The amount of these charges will depend on the length of your cruise and where you're sailing. Gratuities for the staff and crew are also additional.

Find the best value sailings on  GoToSea , a service of U.S. News.

What if you want more amenities and perks?

If you splurge on a suite or a higher room category, such as Celebrity's Concierge Class, you'll get perks like priority embarkation, a Welcome Aboard Concierge Class Lunch, complimentary sparkling wine and daily tastings (upon request), concierge service, invitations to exclusive destination seminars, pillow selection and more.

With Disney Cruise Line's Concierge Staterooms and Suites, guests have a dedicated concierge agent offering personalized assistance for pre-arrival planning for port adventures, dining reservations, other onboard activities and special requests. You'll also have priority check-in and boarding, complimentary Wi-Fi, access to a private lounge, and other perks.

You may opt to stay within an exclusive area of the ship, such as MSC Cruises' Yacht Club, Norwegian's The Haven or Celebrity's The Retreat. These high-end private retreats offer an all-inclusive experience with additional features, while still including access to all the entertainment, dining venues and more on board. The accommodations can cost hundreds more dollars per day, but you'll have an experience similar to sailing on a small luxury vessel.

For example, the MSC Yacht Club offers an intimate all-inclusive space within its larger ships. The private area is accessible with a key card and features luxurious suites, a dedicated concierge, 24-hour butler service, a private restaurant and lounge, a rooftop pool, and other amenities. There are also additional dining and snack options throughout the day at the pool and lounge.

You'll find similar amenities in Norwegian's and Celebrity's private retreats, including priority boarding and disembarkation, exclusive sun deck areas, and priority access when boarding tenders for going ashore.

What factors determine pricing?

Base pricing and the additional components vary greatly among the cruise lines, so you'll need to determine what your budget is for the trip – and what you can and can't live without when it comes to accommodations and amenities. Travelers may also find that one cruise line has a deal or promotion with reduced pricing that includes airfare, specialty dining, a beverage package, free Wi-Fi or other perks in the advertised rate, while another line isn't running any specials for a similar itinerary. 

Voyages on older cruise ships tend to be less expensive, so if you're on a tight budget, consider a ship with fewer bells and whistles. If you're sailing on a short itinerary in the Bahamas and plan to lounge by the pool or on the beach all day, you may not be concerned about having high-tech onboard amenities, martini bars and several specialty restaurants.

Save the money to splurge on more expensive fares when you're planning to sail on longer voyages on larger and newer ships. You'll want several days at sea to enjoy the onboard amenities on some vessels, such as a three-level racetrack and a 10-story-tall slides on a new ship like Norwegian Prima or its new sister ship, Norwegian Viva, set to debut in summer 2023.

Another significant factor to consider is the time of year you want to travel. Better deals are available in the offseason, but the offseason varies depending on what part of the world you're traveling to. For example, May is a great time to find a deal in the Caribbean. The offseason – or shoulder season – in that market typically runs from May to November. However, keep in mind this period overlaps with hurricane season .

You also may be able to find last-minute deals in many other destinations if you're flexible. Working with a travel agent is an excellent way to learn of last-minute specials and cruise deals that offer add-ons like beverage packages, specialty dining inclusions, shore excursions and other perks. You can also check out the online specials that change frequently.

Read: The Best Cruise Lines for the Money

Solo travelers may pay more

If you're traveling alone , you may also need to factor in a single supplement, which can add up to as much as 100% of the cruise fare. To save money, bring a friend so you can access the lower double occupancy fare or consider lines that feature rooms for solo travelers; select Royal Caribbean, Norwegian and Celebrity ships offer solo cabins.

These smaller accommodations – around 100 to 200 square feet in size – are priced and designed for solo travelers. Key card access to Norwegian's Studio Complex and Lounge is included with the line's solo cabins and offers a place to relax and mix and mingle with other cruisers. Other lines that offer solo cabins include Holland America, MSC and Virgin Voyages . While the price may not be as inexpensive as the double occupancy fare when traveling with someone else, these accommodations offer some savings over a typical solo fare.

Some lines often feature special deals on select sailings where the single supplement is waived or reduced. A knowledgeable travel agent specializing in cruises can assist in finding the best offers for solo travelers.

Read: The Top Cruise Lines for Solo Travelers

Kids cruise free promotions can help families save

If you're traveling with kids, many cruise lines – such as Holland America, MSC, Norwegian, Royal Caribbean, Disney and Princess – offer "kids sail free" promotions periodically throughout the year. You can also find discounted fares for the kids on select sailings. Regent Seven Seas Cruises has fares as low as $999 for children 17 and younger on a variety of select voyages whose regular fares are around $6,000 and up. This fare also includes unlimited shore excursions and all the benefits and perks of sailing with an all-inclusive luxury cruise line.

Read: The Top Cruises for Babies and Toddlers

Food and beverage packages are another expense to consider

Once you determine your total cruise fare with the taxes, fees, port charges and gratuities, you'll need to budget for the additional expenses you'll have on the ship – and these extras can add up quickly. Meals at specialty dining venues , alcoholic drinks and other beverages may not be covered in the basic cruise fare. You'll also have to pay for room service on most ships.

You can purchase specialty dining, beverage and Wi-Fi packages before or during your cruise. These packages offer savings over purchasing everything individually – and it's best to buy them once you book your cruise, as they're typically cheaper to purchase before you board the ship. For an example of the savings, Royal Caribbean offers up to a 40% discount with a dining package. This package includes reduced pricing for children ages 6 to 12, while kids 5 and younger eat for free. The cruise line's unlimited dining package also offers discounts on bottles of wine.

In addition to specialty dining venues that charge a flat fee – usually between $30 to $50 – there are also restaurants that charge as much as $75 or more for dinner. Other venues feature a la carte menus with sushi, bar food and even steakhouses that price out individual courses. Some of these may not include gratuity, so that's another add-on. If you decide to dine at any of these spots – and they're not included in your package – you'll have to budget for them in the total cruise price. Enticing dessert items in the gelato and ice cream shops on some ships also come with a price, including Coco's and Dolce Gelato on Norwegian or MSC's Venchi.

There are endless options when considering beverage packages, too, so you need choose what fits best with your interests and budget. Some of the package options are only for nonalcoholic drinks like fountain sodas, sparkling waters and coffees, while premium or deluxe beverage packages cover beer, wine and cocktails, so they are more expensive. Depending on the cruise line, most premium packages will usually cover drinks up to $15, but many craft cocktails on cruise ships can be quite expensive, costing much more, especially if you request a call brand for the liquor. If you have the premium package and want to splurge on the fancy beverage, you'll have to pay the difference.

Other lines have packages that cover top-shelf beverages of up to $20 each and include wine, large bottles of water and soda, and other perks. You'll need to budget around $85 per person per day for this option – and an additional 18% gratuity. This type of package can add up to quite a bit of money on a seven-day cruise or longer.

For additional savings, look into bundle pricing that includes specialty dining, Wi-Fi, photos and more. Purchasing them together may be more cost-effective. For example, Holland America offers a "Have It All" package that encompasses a shore excursion credit, a signature beverage package (including the service charge), one evening of specialty dining and Wi-Fi. If you're sailing on longer cruises of 10 to 21 days or more, the benefits increase. The line estimates savings of 50% when you purchase this bundle.

While these packages may not always work out in your favor, you'll at least know what your dining, imbibing, excursions, Wi-Fi and even additional activities on the cruise will cost.

Read: Cruise Drink Packages: Your Options by Cruise Line

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Additional costs on a cruise ship

Cruisers will also incur additional fees from excursions, fitness classes, spa treatments, access to thermal spa rooms, babysitting services, ship tours, wine tastings, cocktail demonstrations, cooking classes, laundry services, and some entertainment venues and activities on the ship – such as Norwegian's racetrack and Carnival's first roller coaster at sea, BOLT. See some of the more popular added costs you'll want to consider below.

Wi-Fi access

If you need Wi-Fi during the cruise, that's another cost to factor into the total price. Here are two examples of pricing for internet plans for two cruise lines.

Carnival offers three options for Wi-Fi, using Starlink. The basic Social Wi-Fi Plan gives you access certain social media channels like Facebook Messenger, Instagram, Twitter, WhatsApp and more starting at $12.75 per day per person. The cost increases to $17 per day per person with the Value Wi-Fi Plan. This option gives you access to your email and to sites for weather, news, finance and more. It does not support Skype or music and video streaming services like Spotify and Netflix during your cruise.

Carnival's Premium Wi-Fi Plan starts at $18.70 per person per day and offers speeds up to three times faster than the Value plan. With this plan you can make Zoom calls and use Skype. For all three of these plans, you can save 15% off the total price if you book in advance of your trip.

Celebrity also uses Starlink. The line's "Always Included" fare includes basic internet, a classic drink package and gratuities. If you don't book that fare, Wi-Fi plans range from $20 per day for basic service to premium Wi-Fi at $35 per day.

• Shore excursions

If you're traveling to far-flung or new destinations, you'll want to book shore excursions. Cruise lines recommend that you book excursions directly with them rather than hiring an independent tour company or operator, but it can be more expensive to book tours through the cruise line.

However, if you experienced a delay on an independent tour and couldn't get back to the ship on time, there's a chance you could get left behind if you're not on a ship-sponsored tour. If you decide to go with a private tour guide, be sure to book an excursion where you'll arrive back at the ship with plenty of time to spare before the vessel departs for the next destination. Most tour operators in busy cruise ports work with the cruise ship schedules all the time, so you should be fine with a reputable independent guide.

Some trips last an entire day or are once-in-a-lifetime adventures like dog-sledding on a glacier in Alaska or taking a helicopter ride in Iceland. These types of excursions can be costly, ranging anywhere from hundreds to even thousands of dollars.

If these types of experiences are not in your budget, then look for historic walking or panoramic driving tours. These excursions are shorter in duration and typically the least expensive tours available on the cruise. Most of these types of tours will cost less than $100. And, of course, there are always other options available that range between the lower and higher price range of excursions.

If your ship is docked directly in the town or city, then you'll be able to explore off the ship on your own for free. Some cruise lines also offer complimentary shuttle buses into town, or a round-trip ride for a nominal fee, if it's not within walking distance of the ship. That's another less expensive option for you to sightsee, shop or grab lunch in town.

Transportation

Transportation is another expense that's often overlooked in the total cost of a cruise. Consider if you'll be driving or flying to the cruise port. If you're driving, you'll have to pay for gas and parking at the port – and maybe a hotel the night before the cruise, depending on when you arrive and when your ship is scheduled to set sail. Don't forget the meals or beverages you'll purchase on the way.

If you're flying to the port, especially on a long-distance flight, it's best to come in a day early. In that case, you'll also have to pay for a hotel, transfers from the airport to the hotel and then a transfer (private hire, Uber or cab) to the ship's terminal. There will also be meals to budget for while you're in town before the cruise and a ride back to the airport after the cruise.

Souvenirs or forgotten items

Don't forget to account for purchases on the ship. Items that you forgot to bring from home will be more expensive on the ship. It's also easy to run up the bill when buying souvenirs for yourself or the kids. It's a good idea to periodically check your bill online or with guest services to see the current balance. You can keep a running tab of what you've billed to your stateroom – and also make sure that the charges are correct.

Cruise pricing checklist

To sum it up, here's a checklist of major items that will help you to compare costs across cruise lines and tally up the total cost of a cruise:

• Base cruise price
• Taxes, fees, gratuities and port expenses
• Specialty dining
• Beverage package
• Optional activities
• Miscellaneous expenses
• Air or ground travel to the port
• Hotel prior to embarking

If you don't want to budget for all the individual expenses related to a cruise – and you don't need the over-the-top entertainment of a larger cruise ship – consider booking a mostly all-inclusive or fully all-inclusive cruise with a luxury cruise line . These cruise lines include almost everything in your cruise fare.

Mostly all-inclusive cruises

One option for a mostly all-inclusive cruise is Viking Ocean Cruises . The line's nine all-veranda ocean-going vessels accommodate 930 passengers – and all of Viking's ships feature the same categories of staterooms and suites, dining, lounges, and entertainment venues across the fleet. The ships offer an immersive cultural curriculum on board with regional dishes, destination performances and enrichment lectures.

Viking's fares include veranda accommodations, port taxes and fees, free Wi-Fi, access to The Nordic Spa and fitness center, 24-hour room service, ground transportation (if you book airfare with Viking), and one complimentary excursion in each port. You'll also have complimentary alternative dining options and free beer, wine and soft drinks with lunch and dinner on board the ship. Specialty coffees, teas and bottled water are available 24 hours a day at no extra charge. Guests are also invited to a welcome cocktail party and farewell reception.

If you like to have an aperitif before your evening meal or an after-dinner cocktail, those beverages will be at an additional cost. You'll also need to budget for any optional shore excursions that are not included in the fare.

Keep in mind that Viking is an adults-only cruise line, so children younger than 18 are not permitted.

Read:  The Best Adults-Only Cruises

All-inclusive cruises

Silversea Cruises , Regent Seven Seas and Seabourn Cruise Line boast all-inclusive luxury experiences with shipwide amenities such as ocean-facing suites, butlers, premium spirits, fully stocked in-suite bars, no tipping and complimentary dining at world-class restaurants.

Additional perks with Regent Seven Seas include complimentary shore excursions, free two- or three-night land programs, a free one-night hotel stay before the cruise departure, transfers from the airport to the ship, and business class or economy airfare, depending on the destination.

Silversea offers door-to-door arrangements where everything is handled by the cruise line. You can also opt for a port-to-port all-inclusive rate if you prefer to make your own travel arrangements. If you're on one of the cruise line's expedition cruises, fares will include a pre- or post-cruise hotel stay. All Silversea fares cover a selection of complimentary shore excursions in each port.

If you're interested in an even smaller ship – and are sailing to the Caribbean or Mediterranean – SeaDream Yacht Club features an intimate luxury experience on its two 56-stateroom yachts. The fares include top-notch cuisine, open bar and gratuities, complimentary daily yoga, access to water sports activities and nightly movies under the stars.

Read: The Top Cruises on Small Ships

How much does a luxury cruise cost for two?

If you want to go on a mostly adults-only luxury ship, what can you expect to pay for two people? This will depend on the ship, where you want to sail and for how long – and what amenities are included in the fare.

For a seven-night cruise in the Baltic region in June with Regent Seven Seas, an all-inclusive fare with suite accommodations is $12,540 ($6,270 per person). There are also additional perks available, depending on where you book the cruise. Some of the extras include a cash-back offer, a two-category upgrade and shipboard credit.

Silversea has a similar itinerary in June, and the fare also comes with added perks for $13,860 for two people ($6,930 per person) in suite accommodations.

While the price tag may seem high, compare the total cost with the base fare on a larger cruise ship and then add in all the extras.

See the top cruises on  GoToSea .

The bottom line

The average cost of a cruise is all over the map – and there are many variables to consider. Hiring a cruise specialist to navigate the rough waters may be your best option. Cruise specialists are also privy to special deals and incentives that you may not be able to access on your own.

Travel agents can also advise you of promotions that may include free specialty dining, beverage packages, complimentary Wi-Fi, shore excursions, discounts on solo and family travel, and more. This approach will save you the hassle of searching online or calling the individual cruise companies to check on what specials are available.

If you'd rather have one price with everything included so there's little room for surprises at the end of the trip, consider a mostly or fully all-inclusive cruise fare. If you don't need waterslides for the kids, big Broadway shows and high-tech entertainment, opt for a cruise on a small luxury line.

When doing the math and comparing the costs, you might be surprised how similar in price cruising with a larger mass-market cruise line and a smaller luxury line can be. In the end, your decision will come down to your personal preferences and what you value most for your cruise vacation.

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Gwen Pratesi has been an avid cruiser since her early 20s. She has sailed on nearly every type of cruise ship built, including the newest megaships, paddle-wheelers on the Snake and Columbia rivers, and an 18-stateroom river ship on the Mekong River in Vietnam and Cambodia. Most recently, she traveled on a small luxury expedition vessel in Antarctica and crossed the notorious Drake Passage twice. She covers the travel and culinary industries, specializing in cruises, for major publications including U.S. News & World Report.

You might also be interested in:

• How Much Does an Alaska Cruise Cost?
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Caribbean Cruise Ports Lead Segment Surge

T he Caribbean, the cruise industry’s largest deployment region, is driving its post-pandemic resurgence. Several regional destinations are reporting robust 2024 cruise arrivals following similarly positive results in 2023.

The region’s cruise ship surge lies behind a global passenger increase. A total of 31.7 million travelers cruised in 2023, according to the Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA)’s 2024 State of the Cruise Industry report. The total represents a seven percent increase over pre-pandemic 2019.

Of that number according to CLIA, 44.2 percent of 2023 cruise passengers traveled to the Caribbean, Bahamas and Bermuda, far outpacing the 18.5 percent who sailed to the Mediterranean, the next-highest global region.

In all, 12.9 million cruise passengers traveled to the Caribbean, Bahamas and Bermuda in 2023, a 7.3 percent increase over 2019. “The Caribbean gained almost one million new cruise visitors in 2023 compared to 2019,” CLIA officials stated in the report.

The cruise growth trend is evident, said destination officials. The Bahamas will host 5.6 million cruise passengers at its Nassau Cruise Port in 2024, said Chester Cooper, minister of tourism.

The figure will exceed the 5.4 million the port hosted in pre-pandemic 2019, said Cooper. “We are about 40 percent higher on cruise passengers at the Nassau cruise port,” he said.

In Barbados, government officials say 392 cruise calls carrying 715,527 passengers are confirmed for the 2024 winter season. The figures represent an 18 percent increase compared with the 358 calls and 608,583 passengers hosted in 2023.

Overall, Barbados’ 2024 cruise passenger arrivals are poised to exceed its 2023 numbers, with 826,338 passengers expected to arrive at the country’s Bridgetown port this year, arriving on 338 calls. Last winter, Barbados hosted 661,635 passengers arriving on 373 calls, said Ian Gooding-Edghill, minister of tourism.

Curaçao Ports Authority (CPA) officials quoted in a Curaçao Chronicle article anticipates 300 cruise calls with an average occupancy of 90 percent in 2024. The ships will deliver 800,000 cruise passengers to the destination this year, a 13 percent increase over 2023 totals.

Cruising High

The dual-island nation of Antigua and Barbuda is also among the Caribbean’s 2024 cruise visitation leaders. The destination is expected to host 800,000 cruise ship visitors in 2024 according to government tourism officials quoted in a WICNews.com report.

On March 12, Antigua and Barbuda hosted 15,808 passengers aboard six cruise ships, a record for the dual-island destination. The vessels included ships from Costa Cruises, Princess Cruises, Royal Caribbean International and Aida Cruises and Sea Dream Yacht Club.

Antigua and Barbuda followed its record March with a five-ship day on April 1, as vessels from Regent Seven Seas Cruises, Princess Cruises, Celebrity Cruises and Emerald Cruises carrying 10,820 visitors called at the destination, according to government tourism officials.

Caribbean tourism officials attending last week’s Seatrade Cruise Global conference in Miami Beach detailed the cruise segment’s resurgence in their countries.

Edmund Bartlett, Jamaica’s tourism minister, said Royal Caribbean Group officials “reaffirmed their commitment to Jamaica,” during the conference, maintaining a target of 400,000 annual visitors at Jamaica’s Falmouth cruise port.

The country hosted 389,319 cruise passengers in 2023, a 29.7 percent increase compared with 2022.

Saying “Seatrade 2024 signaled the returning strength of the cruise sector,” Bartlett held discussions with Carnival Cruise Lines, Disney Cruise Line and Princess Cruises during the event.

The Jamaica minister also held “very positive” discussions with MSC Cruises officials regarding “their interest in forging a larger strategic partnership involving investment in local infrastructure.”

Regional Resurgence

Other Caribbean nations reporting recent cruise visitation growth include the Turks and Caicos, where Experience Turks and Caicos officials reported 98,161 cruise ship visitors in March, the year’s highest total.

The Dominican Republic’s cruise ports hosted 52 cruise ships in April said Atahualpa Paulino, northern regional director of tourism, in a DominicanToday.com report.

The higher 2024 Caribbean arrivals follow similar success across 2023. The twin-island federation of St. Kitts and Nevis hosted 774,512 cruise ship visitors in 2023, a 61 percent increase over the 481,077 arrivals in 2022.

British Virgin Islands Ports Authority (BVIPA) officials said the territory hosted 720,392 cruise ship visitors in 2023, a 110 percent increase over the 343, 571 visitors hosted in 2022. The 2023 total “also surpasses the highest recorded arrivals” of 699,105 passengers in 2016, according to BVIPA.

Significant room for growth remains for the Caribbean cruising despite the increased arrivals in 2023 and 2024.

St. Kitts and Nevis’ 2023 cruise arrivals growth still trails the 1,053,388 cruise visitors the destination hosted in 2019, according to statistics from Tourism Analytics.

Bermuda hosted 525,413 visitors on 183 cruise ship calls in 2023, up 30.5 percent and 11.6 percent respectively from 2022, according to the Bermuda Tourism Authority’s 2023 Visitors Arrivals Report. Yet the total still trails the 535,561 cruise visitors Bermuda hosted in 2019.

The Cayman Islands hosted 937,000 cruise ship visitors in 2023, according to Economics and Statistics office data quoted in a Cayman Compass article. The figure represents a year-over-year increase of 118.1 percent but is about half of the 2019 total of 1.83 million cruise visitors.

“We are seeing the huge [cruise] growth, but if we haven’t yet reached the numbers before COVID,” Hugo Clarinda, Curaçao’s deputy tourism director, said earlier this year.

The Caribbean nation hosted “around 700,000 cruise visitors” in 2023, said Clarinda. “We will surpass 800,000 for sure,” he predicted.  “Cruise continues to be important part of the mix [that] contributes to [our] economic impact.”