Beautiful beaches, balmy temperatures … it’s no wonder the calypso islands are such a big draw

The Caribbean is arguably the most popular cruising destination in the world, and it’s pretty popular with British cruisers too, attracting tens of of thousands every year.

First time visitors are often fascinated by the differences between the islands, which stretch 2,500 miles in a gentle crescent from the tip of Florida in the north to the coast of Venezuela in the south.

There was a thriving Indian civilisation in the Caribbean before the arrival of European explorers who fought hard for each country. The newcomers have all left their mark.

The islands of Guadaloupe, Martinique, St Barthelemy and St Martin are all Departments D’Outremer of France. There are the Dutch Antilles islands, the US Virgin islands, the Spanish legacy in Cuba and Puerto Rica and British influences in islands such as Barbados, Jamaica and St Lucia.

This diversity also means there is a wide range of languages spoken in the Caribbean – English on many islands, Spanish in Puerto Rico, French in Guadaloupe and Martinique and Dutch in Curacao.

The average surface temperature of the Caribbean Sea is a balmy 29 degrees Centigrade. On land there is an average temperature of just over 25 degrees Centigrade all year round

The Caribbean has vast differences in its geography. Some countries such as St Lucia have dramatic extinct volcanoes. Barbados has an area affectionately known as Scotland. Antigua has 365 beaches – one for every day of the year.
St Barthelemy is so tiny that as light aeroplanes approach to land they appear to touch the tops of cars on a nearby hill.

Cruising variety

Cruising is a great way to sample a range of countries and landscapes within one holiday. There is a multitude of cruising itineraries to choose from and different styles of ship to suit everyone and every age.

There are cruises to suit all families, for people who like an active holiday, for those who prefer luxury and for those who are happiest in an informal setting.

Cruising value

Cruising offers excellent value for money – entertainment, all good and often an exhaustive choice of activities on board are all included in the price.

How do I get there?

Most Caribbean itineraries are fly-cruises, flying from an airport in the UK to a port in the USA, the Caribbean or Mexico. You can book a longer cruise that sails from and returns to a port in the UK.

Acapulco
Mexico’s premier resort basks along the shore of a sunning bay. At one end, the old city is typically Spanish with vibrant markets and a splendid cathedral. At La Quebrada, the famous divers make their living defying death – unmissable. Further along the bay, the new section of the city boasts soaring hotels, luxurious restaurants and world-class shopping. Sporty types can enjoy everything from water-skiing to para-gliding to deep sea fishing. For the less active, a chilled margarita at a pavement cafe may appeal more.

Antigua
This magical island boasts a beach for every day of the year so you are spoiled for choice. But Gally Bay takes some beating. Cross the island to historic Nelson’s Dockyard and see (roughly) how the island looked when Horatio was stationed there.

Aruba
The “A” of the ABC islands (the others are Bonaire and Curacao) has the reputation as the Caribbean’s friendliest island. It also boasts some of its finest beaches and clearest waters for snorkelling and diving. Visit the Balashi gold mine that lured Europeans in the 17th Century, caves adorned with Arawak Indian wall paintings or the unusual rock formation garden at Casibari. The idyllic Baby Beach at the southern tip of the island has clean, warm and shallow waters – and no crowds.

Barbados
With its afternoon teas, Trafalgar Square and British traditions, Barbados is a slice of Britain with a difference – but oh, what a difference! There are miles of sandy beaches fringing warm, clear waters. Surfers should head for the Atlantic coast, splashers for the Caribbean side. Call in at the Glitter Bay Hotel for a swim and a cocktail. Head for Sandy Lane or Glitter Bay for a luxurious al fresco lunch, or mingle with the locals along Bridgetown¹s colourful Careenage. As for food, try the locals favourite – a flying fish sandwich.

Belize
Belize city boasts Latin America’s oldest Anglican cathedral as well as a feast of fine colonial architecture. Those looking for evidence of the mysterious Mayan civilisation should head for Altun Ha. Elsewhere, discover all manner of wonders from endless stretches of deserted beach, to virgin rain forest teeming with wildlife.

Bonaire
The second-largest of the Dutch Antilles. With undersea visibility of up to 65 feet and a myriad of tropical fish to watch as they dart among multi-hued corals, Bonaire is justly famous for its snorkelling. Equally colourful ashore are the charming town of Kralendijk with its rose- coloured fish market and the vast flocks of pink flamingos.

Caracas (La Guaira)
Cosmopolitan Caracas is a melting pot of architectural styles, where glittering skyscrapers share space with elegant neoclassical buildings. It also boasts an unusual combination of attractions – from bargains in gold, gems and pearls to an array of tempting beaches.

Cienfuegos (Cuba)
The UNESCO World Heritage Site of Cienfuegos was established in 1819 with a wide array of visually-stunning attractions, including acclaimed Botanical Gardens with more than 2,000 plant species on display, impressive neoclassical architecture, a 950-seat opera house and the bustling Santa Isabel Boulevard.

Cozumel – Mexico
Mexico’s only Caribbean island, Cozumel was selected by computer as the perfect place to build the ultimate resort. Fine beaches and incomparable snorkelling have proven the computer right. A short ferry hop across to the mainland brings you face to face with the evocative world of the Maya. You can see the remains of their culture at clifftop Tulum, or more impressively at Chichen Itza with its sacrificial pools, towering temples and elaborate games court.

Curacao – Dutch Antilles
With its traditional, Dutch-style gabled houses painted in shades of lemon, aqua and raspberry, Curacao is quite possibly the prettiest Caribbean port. Stroll across the unique Queen Emma Pontoon Bridge fro the best views. Stop by Chobolobo Mansion for a free sample of the island’s most famous export, the orange-flavoured Curacao liqueur.

Devil’s Island
Once the most dreaded penal settlement in the world, where Dreyfuss and Papillon were both imprisoned, yet today lush vegetation, orchids and shrubs have over-run the buildings of the prison. Once again the island is a peaceful and secluded paradise.

Dominica
When Columbus discovered the island it was populated by Carib Indians, as were all the islands. The difference here is that around 3,000 Caribs survive, living a traditional life on a special reserve. At Trafalgar Falls you can inspect the second largest mud lake in the world as it hisses and bubbles. At More Trois Pitons, watch the waterfall shimmer and foam.

Ft Lauderdale
Not the Caribbean, but the gateway to it. Most visitors know all about Fort Lauderdale’s six miles of wide soft sands. Fewer, however, realise that it also features 165 miles of mansion and yacht-lined canals, smart boutiques and chances to visit the nearby unique Florida Everglades.

Grand Cayman
Largest of the three Caymans, this gives you the unusual opportunity of sending a postcard from Hell … a picturesquely named village on the far side of the island. Visit Seven Mile beach for a day of Caribbean sun and fun, or take a fascinating submarine trip over the extensive coral reefs.

Grenada
The Caribbean’s only Spice Island is also the kind of island that provides picture-postcard views at seemingly every turn. Even its capital features pastel warehouses and gabled buildings set around a scenic deep blue lagoon.

Havana (Cuba)
Declared one of the New7Wonders Cities in June 2016, Havana has something for everyone: from landscapes and ecotourist activities for outdoor adventure lovers and a golf course where international tournaments are held every year, to international marinas with first-class services for the traveler that enjoys water activities and sports.The weather is wonderful virtually all year round.

Historic Falmouth Port
The port, situated between the popular cruise ports of Ocho Rios and Montego Bay, is the first-ever thematic cruise port and is also a convenient gateway for guests to embark on more than 60 land experiences along the north coast of Jamaica. More on this.

Martinique
It’s hardly difficult to figure out why the Carib Indians called Martinique “The island of Flowers”. They’re nearly everywhere – most spectacularly in the exotic varieties you’ll find in Balata Gardens – and they’re complemented by an ambiance as French as the Cote d’Azur. Beaches are much rarer than the blooms, however.

Ocho Rios
Many people consider Jamaica the loveliest island in the Caribbean. Soaring mountains, miles of ruggedly beautiful coastline and tumbling foaming waterfalls conspire to create a unique landscape. Take a unique walk all the way UP Dunn’s River Falls. (Don’t let go of your partner -ed). Shop for local carvings, or spend a day partying on a Rum Runner (hangovers are unavoidable – ed).

Santiago de Cuba
Santiago de Cuba is a gateway to Cuba’s revolutionary and religious history, with adventures such as the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Castillo del Morroto, the Sierra Maestra foothills, El Cobre – one of the most significant religious destinations in Cuba – and historic sites like Revolution Square.

St Kitts
The mother colony of the Caribbean, St Kitts was colonised by the British as early as 1623. Basseterre, the main port, is an historic town. Specially notable are Government House and Old Court House. In just four hours you can take a leisurely drive around the entire island. Don’t miss Brimstone Hill Fort with its panoramic views across to the sister island of St Eustatius.

St Lucia
St Lucia comes next. Arguably the loveliest island in the Caribbean, the dominant (and most frequently photographed) features are the twin rock spires of Les Pitons. At Marigot Bay you’ll see a beach that may look familiar: hardly surprising, as the film Dr Doolittle was shot here. Other fine beaches include Rodney Bay and Anse Chastenet. Inland you can visit La Soufriere and the unique drive-in volcano. Castries, the capital, offers fine restaurants and a colourful local market.

St Maarten
The French and the Dutch share St Maarten amicably – you’ll only realise you’ve crossed the border between the two countries by the ‘Welcome’ sign astride it. With good reason – both sides offer alluring beaches and scenic views.

St Thomas
This is the place to go shopping. Some crazy duty-free prices even make a Rolex watch look a bargain … and if you have time left to explore, try to visit Magen’s Bay and snorkel. Or enjoy the ornate Danish warehouses where Captain Kidd once hid his treasure.