Cruise to Eastern Caribbean

Eastern Caribbean cruises sail to islands that are close to the open Atlantic, including Antigua, Barbados, British Virgin Islands, Dominican Republic, Grenada, Haiti, Puerto Rico, Saint Lucia, Saint Maarten/Saint Martin and more.

For all international cruises, you need a passport with at least two blank pages and a minimum of six months’ validity from the date of your return.

Yes, English is among the six official languages spoken in the Caribbean. Other official languages include Dutch, French, Haitian Creole, Papiamentu and Spanish. You may also hear other local languages and dialects throughout your travels in the Eastern Caribbean.

You’re more than welcome to explore the islands on your own. Just keep in mind that booking tours and shore excursions with your cruise line may allow you to experience a destination in more unique and immersive ways.

Yes! Many of the cruise ships sailing in this region are decked out with family-friendly amenities, including waterslides, rock climbing walls, mini golf courses and more. A lot of the shore excursions offered on Eastern Caribbean cruise itineraries are also suitable for kids and families.

The Eastern Caribbean is a year-round cruise destination, but the region really shines between December and April. During this period, temperatures range from 20ºC to 26ºC, waters are clear and rainfall is low — meaning you’ll get plenty of opportunities to relax on a beach, try snorkelling and other aquatic sports, and experience unique island cultures.  

It’s best to avoid going on Caribbean cruises during hurricane season (June to November), if possible — especially if it’s important for you to have ideal weather conditions throughout your vacation.

Most island nations in the Eastern Caribbean will accept US dollars, but it’s a good idea to have some local currency on hand as well. Here are the official currencies for some of the top destinations in the region: 

• Antigua – East Caribbean Dollar (XCD) 

• Barbados – Barbadian/Bajan Dollar (BBD) 

• British Virgin Islands – US Dollar (USD) 

• Dominican Republic – Dominican Peso (DOP) 

• Grenada – East Caribbean Dollar (XCD) 

• Haiti – Haitian Gourde (HTG) 

• Puerto Rico – US Dollar (USD) 

• Saint Lucia – East Caribbean Dollar (XCD) 

• Saint Maarten/Saint Martin – Euro (EUR)/Netherlands Antillean Guilder (ANG)  

In addition to being home to some of the world’s most beautiful beaches, the Eastern Caribbean is rich in history and culture. In other words: there are activities that suit everyone’s hobbies, interests and travel styles.  

Nature lovers can tour tropical gardens and rainforests; watersports enthusiasts can swim, snorkel and scuba dive in azure seas; foodies can sip and savour local delicacies; history buffs can go on historical fort tours in Grenada; adrenaline junkies can race down ziplines; wellness seekers can take a mud bath at a Saint Lucia volcano… you get the picture.  

Most cruise ships that sail in the Eastern Caribbean have multiple onboard restaurants serving a mix of international cuisines. There’s usually a buffet and several à la carte options.  

Of course, you can also try regional and local cuisine at each port destination. From cou cou (a polenta-like dish made with cornmeal and okra) and fried conch to saltfish, cassava dumplings and ducana (Antigua’s version of the tamale), there are countless ways to expand your Caribbean culinary tastes.

Packing for an Eastern Caribbean cruise is similar to packing for a beach vacation (think bathing suits, sandals and sunhats!). That said, tropical climates can be unpredictable — so it’s a good idea to pack some lightweight layers, including a rain jacket.  

You also need to consider the types of activities you’ll be doing on board and at each port destination. Want to roam the streets of Santo Domingo? Bring comfortable walking shoes!  Making a reservation at your ship’s specialty restaurant? A more formal outfit may be required.