Caribbean
Southern Caribbean
Travel deeper into the Caribbean on the road less traveled to discover exotic landscapes brimming with natural, unspoiled beauty and unique plant and animal species native to the region. Here you’ll venture further into the Caribbean to more remote islands like Dominica, teeming with lush rainforests, waterfalls, rare birds and wildlife as well as the spice island of Grenada, one of the world’s major producers of nutmeg, mace, clove, cinnamon and cocoa. Imagine aquamarine seas ablaze with brightly colored coral reefs and schools of technicolor fish, breathtaking national parks, botanical gardens and world-renowned beaches in places like Aruba, Bonaire and Curaçao. With 7- to 20-day sailings roundtrip from Ft. Lauderdale, plus one-way cruises options from New York, a Southern Caribbean cruise offers a rich and unique port variety balanced by peaceful, relaxing days at sea.
Relax in Dominica’s hot springs, swim amid Grenada’s remarkable Annandale Falls, explore the reefs of Bonaire — a world-class diving and snorkeling destination with several marine life preserves — and gaze in awe at the twisted divi-divi trees of Aruba’s Arikok National Park.
Delight in Aruba’s butterfly and ostrich farms, admire the stalactites and stalagmites in Curaçao’s Hato Caves, ride the Balthazar River rapids in Grenada and snorkel in Dominica, where several scenes from Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Man’s Chest were filmed. And on itineraries with More Ashore Late Night calls, we stay until at least 9 p.m. in port so you can also experience some of the fabulous nightlife.
Dutch influence and native culture live side by side in this diverse region. Grenada is famed for its historic spice plantations, Bonaire’s former slave huts and salt pans share a trying past, and Curaçao’s celebrated Willemstad district — a UNESCO World Heritage Site — boasts traditional Dutch architecture infused with the color and spirit of the Caribbean.
The Southern Caribbean is perhaps best known for its "ABC Islands": Aruba, Bonaire and Curaçao, though Dominica and the spice island of Grenada are equally beautiful as they are popular.
Lying between Guadeloupe and Martinique is the island of Dominica--an unspoiled Caribbean paradise. The vibrant, rich rainforest is home to rare birds, including Sisserou and Jacquot parrots. Streams tumble down mountain slopes and thread fertile valleys on their short route to the sea.
MoreDominica is also home to the last Carib Indians. When Columbus made landfall on his second voyage of discovery, this fierce tribe managed to keep the explorer at bay. And while the island proved a lure for both British and French planters, Dominica somehow managed to escape the trammels of civilization. This former British possession, independent since 1978, today lures visitors from around the world with its unspoiled beauty. As the islanders fondly say, "Apres Bondi, c’est la terre" (After God, it is the land). Tours may travel narrow, winding roads.
The 17,000-acre Morne Trois Pitons National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and is home to most of Dominica’s above-water sights, with several crater lakes and waterfalls, including the Emerald Pool.
Just a short walk into the rainforest in the center of the island is Emerald Pool, a grotto featured in several movies and the site where many a tourist swim in its chilly waters.
One of Dominica’s scenic assets is its collection of beautiful waterfalls, including Trafalgar Falls, Hibiscus Falls and more in Morne Trois Pitons National Park.
Titou Gorge ("little throat" in Creole) is a small waterfall deep in a water filled gorge, flanked by rock walls that provide an intricate and breathtaking setting.
Surrounded by cliffs and rainforests on both sides, these rivers tend to be some of the largest and longest rivers in Dominica.
More like a large park, this 40-acre garden is located on the site of a former sugarcane field, housing endangered Sisserou and Jaco parrots in protective cages, along with many large trees, exotic flowers and tropical plants.
A vast submerged volcanic crater, Soufriere/Scotts Head features spectacular dive sites, dramatic drop-offs and walls, active underwater fumaroles and expansive coral reefs.
Dominica’s diverse landscape offers a variety of outdoor adventures, from swimming in natural rock pools and soothing hot springs to braving a rainforest ropes course or tubing down a tropical river.
Grenada is the Caribbean’s "Isle of Spice" -- one of the world’s major producers of nutmeg, mace, clove, cinnamon, and cocoa. Indeed, the fragrant aroma of spice seems to envelop the island’s emerald hillsides, tropical forests, and sun-drenched beaches. Grenada is truly a feast for the senses.
MoreAmericans, of course, may remember the island from the 1983 U.S. military intervention. Over two decades later, Grenada is again an ideal vacation spot. No building here may be built higher than a coconut palm. The majority of hotels are small and family owned. St. George’s Harbor is a picture-perfect postcard of an idyllic Caribbean anchorage.
This national park offers miles of trails and scenery. Hike the Lake Circle Trail that offers panoramic views of the lush green forest and the pristine waters of the extinct volcano’s crater lake.
This smaller fort built by the British and perched atop Richmond Hill has a commanding vantage point that offers an amazing view of Grenada and its natural harbor.
Once a location of strategic importance, the gorgeous views overlooking the harbor entrance are what make this fortification such a popular attraction today.
A picturesque and lush grotto, this waterfall cascades down 30 feet into a pool of water that’s deep enough for a dip.
Spice gardens and plantation tours are a Grenada must-do. Inhale the scent of cinnamon, cocoa and cloves at historic Dougaldston Spice Estate or visit Gouyave Nutmeg Station for its "Black Gold."
This tourist town has resorts, restaurants, a thriving nightlife and a famed beach that is an idyllic crescent of sand shaded by coconut palms with a gentle turquoise surf.
Situated at the very end of Grand Anse, this beach is one of the best. The water is so clear, you’ll be able to see down to your toes.
The thrill of riding the island rapids is easily satisfied at the Balthazar River. In an inflatable tube surrounded by rushing water and a tropical rainforest canopy, this Grenada adventure is always a splash.
Bonaire is without a doubt a "diver’s paradise." Its license plates even state the same. But there is much more to this small Dutch country of 17,500 residents. "Bon Bini," as you will hear the friendly locals say, means "welcome to the island of Bonaire."
MoreBonaire is located off the coast of Venezuela and has for years been known as a world-class diving and snorkeling destination. Diving and snorkeling are still the predominant activities, but today there is also a variety of other activities to enjoy such as kayaking, bird watching, and other eco-tours. Because of the hot and arid weather, Bonaire has been a major producer of sea salt. Do not miss the "white mountains" waiting to be shipped out and the salt flats where the salt is evaporated from the Caribbean Sea, which also happens to be home to another icon of Bonaire-the pink flamingo. Explore the Dutch architecture of the capital Kralendijk, enjoy the pristine coral reefs, or tour the scenic countryside. Whatever you decide to do in Bonaire, you are sure to have a fantastic time.
Bonaire’s celebrated Marine Park protects the island’s most-precious natural resource. Turtles, rays, and fish of every imaginable color abound in the pristine waters of the park.
The northern tour of the island takes you from Goto Meer, a flamingo favorite, to the scenic area of Dos Pos (Two Wells) and Bonaire’s oldest village, Rincon, once home to slaves.
The southern tour unveils white hills of salt from the salt pans, former slave huts and the Willemstoren lighthouse marking the lower end of the island.
First settled by the Spanish, Rincon is Bonaire’s oldest village. Today, the town boasts pastel cottages, friendly people and the highest goat population on the island.
Immerse yourself in island culture at this living history museum where costumed guides will introduce you to replicas of early homes, artifacts, Caribbean music, traditional foods and handicrafts.
Over 100 species feed in the shallows of this charming saltwater lake at sunset, a favorite among Bonaire’s flamingo population.
The protected waters of the Bonaire National Marine Park surround this uninhabited islet. Its clear water and healthy reefs make for outstanding snorkeling.
This scenic area is part of a protected marine park. You can take the mangrove eco cruise (BON-610) or kayaking (BON-880) to get a closer look at this unique ecosystem.
Dutch influence still lingers on this balmy Caribbean island, part of the former Netherlands Antilles until its independence in 1986. Aruba is a contrast: the island’s arid interior is dotted with cactus and windswept divi-divi trees while secluded coves and sandy beaches make up its coast.
MoreAruba’s long and colorful heritage is reflected in its dialect. Called Papiamento, it is a tongue that combines elements of Spanish, French, Portuguese, Dutch, African and English.
Perched on a high elevation and named after the steamship "California," which sunk off the coast of Aruba, this lighthouse was built in 1910, and offers stunning views of the island and coastline.
Oranjestad, Aruba’s largest port, is the island’s capital and offers the best shopping experience on its main street. It is also known for its impressive Dutch Colonial architecture.
The 400-foot "Antilla" is one of the Caribbean’s largest shipwrecks and also one of its most popular attractions. It was sunk during World War II and is home to many kinds of exotic sea life.
Baby Natural Bridge is a stunning rock and coral formation. The original Natural Bridge fell into the sea in 2005, but the smaller bridge remains a must-see island highlight.
These dramatic formations are shaped by boulders, some the size of small houses and weighing several tons. Arawak Indians would visit in order to hear incoming thunderstorms and draw on the rocks.
Dozens of extroverted ostriches and emus live at this unusual farm, where you can get an up-close look at the gawky creatures’ life cycle and even try hand feeding them!
Aruba is famous for gorgeous, palm-tree lined white sandy beaches which are home to calm clear waters, making them perfect locations for swimming, snorkeling and sunbathing.
Aruba’s Butterfly Farm is home to hundreds of exotic butterflies who fly freely within large meshed enclosures. Witness all stages of their life cycle and with guidance, handle these tiny creatures.