The top Caribbean ports of call beckon visitors with sandy beaches, blue seas, sunny skies, and a rich history. These popular cruise destinations welcome many ships every day. Millions of passengers visit every year.
Nassau, Bahamas
Even though the Bahamas are really in the Atlantic Ocean, they are one of the most popular destinations for Caribbean cruises. Nassau, the capital of the Bahamas, offers a metropolitan flair to these tropical islands. The bustling city is filled with dining and shopping experiences. Casual eateries offer the local fare of chicken or conch snacks served with fries. Fine dining restaurants offer the best dishes from around the world. Festival Place, just off the cruise ship dock, is the perfect place to find an authentic souvenir. Over forty-five local artisans create traditional crafts. The Straw Market on Bay Street offers even more traditional Bahamian crafts. For those who want more adventure, the crystal clear waters surrounding the islands offer some of the best snorkeling and diving. Over 200 feet of visibility gives stunning views of tropical fish, coral reefs, and shipwrecks. Nearby Paradise Island hosts beautiful sandy beaches and the Vegas-style Atlantis Hotel.
Cozumel, Mexico
This island off the Yucatan Peninsula of Mexico is home to more than Mayan ruins. The archaeological site at San Gervasio does give a glimpse of the rich Mayan history and culture that fill the island. Cozumel is also the gateway to more famous Mayan cities of Tulum and Chichen Itza on the mainland. Visitors also have plenty of modern day wonders to explore. Adventures include snorkeling, diving, fishing, and water sports. Several businesses offer up-close encounters with stingrays and dolphins. Plenty of beaches offer access to stretches of white sand and clear waters. Kaokao Chocolates guides visitors through the history of chocolate from the Mayans to today. Local stores provide a bit of Cozumel to take home. They offer silver jewelry, pottery, artwork, and local tequila. Dining experiences range from traditional tacos at a family-owned restaurant to candlelit dinners with live entertainment.
Charlotte Amalie, St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands
Duty-free shops make Charlotte Amalie a bustling hub. Stores offer deals on electronics, crystal, china, and jewelry. Many stores will ship items for you. Local crafts also abound. Shell jewelry, dolls, straw brooms, carved bowls, and woven baskets provide a bit of the island to take home. A rich history lies beyond the shopping scene. The Danish heritage can be seen in the architecture and historical landmarks. The famous 99 Steps were formed from bricks brought from Denmark as ballast in ships. The 99 Steps are one of many stepped streets that fill the cobblestone streets. Other landmarks to explore include Emancipation Garden, the Legislature Building, Fort Christian, and several churches. Coral World Ocean Park invites guests to explore the beauty of Caribbean marine life in a stunning setting. Various eco-tours combine kayaking, hiking, and snorkeling with exploration of the island wildlife.
