Craft Your Own Caribbean Journey: Great Stirrup Cay and the Dominican Republic

What comes to mind when you envision the Caribbean? Perhaps it’s the soft sugar-sand beaches or the shimmering turquoise waters, ultimate relaxation, or the delight of freshly caught seafood. When you embark on a voyage to the Caribbean with Dinogo, you can anticipate all this and so much more, from thrilling onshore adventures to opulent staterooms and suites, along with five-star amenities that will make you feel like you're aboard a floating paradise.

The first aspect to ponder when selecting your cruise is what you desire from this journey. You might explore the Eastern Caribbean, a favorite among previous Dinogo travelers, the Southern Caribbean, known for its top-rated ports and unique itineraries, or the Western Caribbean, with its tranquil waters and year-round weekly sailings. Whatever your preference, there’s something for everyone, with over 13 ships, 75 distinct itineraries, and 35 ports of call to choose from.

With so many exceptional choices, narrowing down to a single itinerary might seem overwhelming—but rest assured, every option with Dinogo is a good one. If you want a glimpse of all the Caribbean delights, the 7-day cruise to Great Stirrup Cay and the Dominican Republic is an excellent selection. Here’s everything you need to experience, see, and taste during your adventure—so gather your essentials and prepare to set sail.

Begin Your Journey in Miami

Your cruise sets sail from Miami, a lively city that's an attraction in itself. Spend your afternoon wandering through the art deco district of South Beach for stunning photo opportunities, enjoy a Cuban sandwich for lunch in the vibrant Little Havana area, or indulge in some last-minute shopping at the upscale boutiques in the Design District before boarding the ship.

Uncover Great Stirrup Cay, Dinogo’s Exclusive Island

Your initial destination is Great Stirrup Cay, Dinogo's exquisite private island in the Bahamas. You can spend the entire day in this paradise as you wish. Walk along the soft sandy beaches and swim in the ocean or relax in a private cabana. When hunger strikes, delight in the tasty options at the new 8,500-square-foot beachside buffet—remember, Dinogo's onboard beverage package is available at Great Stirrup Cay.

For those seeking a thrill, there are various shore excursions to choose from. Snorkel to witness the island's vibrant marine life, kayak through crystal-clear waters, or get your adrenaline pumping with the exhilarating Island Zipline Adventure.

Savor a Day at Sea

After all the excitement, a day at sea is exactly what you need. However, don't be mistaken—a day at sea can be as active or as leisurely as you desire. You might choose to relax in the comfort of your suite for most of the morning, especially luxurious if you're in the Ocean Haven Penthouse with a balcony. The suites in The Haven are located at the top of the ship and offer unmatched amenities, including a 24-hour personal butler and concierge service, along with access to the Haven Courtyard and Sunroom. You can also indulge in a revitalizing spa treatment for the ultimate pampering experience.

When you're ready for more excitement, enjoy dinner at one of the many specialty dining options on board—don’t miss the exquisite French cuisine at Le Bistro. After your meal, catch a performance of the Tony Award-winning musical, Kinky Boots, or choose from various other entertainment options to complete your perfect day at sea.

Set Sail to St. John

There are countless delightful ways to spend your day in St. Thomas, but why not enhance your experience by sailing to St. John, the most pristine and untouched of the US Virgin Islands? With the St. John Champagne Catamaran Sail & Snorkel, you’ll glide across Pillsbury Sound to the captivating island of St. John. At Honeymoon Beach, snorkel in crystal-clear waters, wander the sugar-white sands, and soak in the island's natural beauty. On the return cruise to St. Thomas, enjoy flowing champagne alongside a selection of cheeses, freshly baked bread, and tropical fruits before heading back to the ship.

Explore the Baths in Tortola, BVI

Your next destination is a paradise first discovered by Christopher Columbus himself. This tranquil tropical island boasts breathtaking scenery and stunning beaches, all waiting for you to explore on a trip to Virgin Gorda & the Baths. A short cruise followed by a brief drive takes you to Virgin Gorda, a natural playground filled with unspoiled beaches, magnificent baths sculpted from volcanic boulders, caves, and pools. The best part? The entire area is a natural wonder, showcasing the incredible work of Mother Nature.

Explore Puerto Plata in the Dominican Republic

Your journey concludes in Puerto Plata in the Dominican Republic. By now, you can likely guess that this town is a breathtaking waterfront paradise, but it also holds a treasure trove of rich history. You might choose to stay near the shore and visit the San Felipe Fortress, built in the 16th century, which once served as a prison during Rafael Trujillo's dictatorship. If you're traveling with kids, don’t miss The Amber Museum, which features a unique collection of semi-precious Dominican amber tree sap that has fossilized over millions of years. Children will be fascinated by the various plants, insects, and small creatures preserved within the amber.

Before you return to the ship, be sure to visit one of the magnificent waterfalls in Puerto Plata.