The ultimate Caribbean cruise for every kind of traveler

Options for a Caribbean cruise are plentiful—it's the most sought-after cruising destination worldwide. Over 200 cruise ships visit the region at least part of the year, and cruise booking websites feature thousands of individual sailings in the Caribbean.

While this abundance of choices is fantastic for prospective Caribbean cruisers, it can also feel daunting. With so many selections, where should you start? Which ships and itineraries are the best?

We frequently receive the latter inquiry—and we consistently respond in the same vague manner: It depends. What is the best ship and itinerary in the Caribbean for whom? The best for us? The best for you? The best for your family?

Choosing the best cruise in the Caribbean, much like selecting any cruise, heavily depends on individual tastes and preferences. Some travelers enjoy the bustling atmosphere of the largest ships, while others are appalled by the thought. Some seek (and are willing to pay for) the highest levels of luxury, whereas others have strict budgets. The ideal cruise for a family with children may not be the same as the perfect cruise for a couple in search of romance.

What type of cruiser are you? It's essential to consider this before narrowing down your options.

Ultimately, the best Caribbean cruise for you largely hinges on your travel style. Below, we’ll assist you in refining your options by categorizing Caribbean cruises. The encouraging news is that in the Caribbean, there truly is something for everyone.

Top Caribbean cruise for megaresort enthusiasts: Royal Caribbean

If your ideal vacation involves a week at a lively resort packed with every imaginable entertainment option, you should kick off your Caribbean cruise search by exploring the largest ships from lines like Royal Caribbean.

For those who live by the motto "more is better," you can skip the search and check out Icon of the Seas. Weighing in at 248,663 gross tons, this 20-deck behemoth holds the title of the largest cruise ship in the world, unmatched by any other vessel in the Caribbean.

Among the standout features of Icon of the Seas are its incredibly vast water park, complete with six waterslides, a cantilevered infinity pool, and a massive glass dome housing an indoor AquaTheater for thrilling acrobatic and diving performances, along with innovative cabin and suite designs tailored for families.

Royal Caribbean offers seven-night Eastern and Western Caribbean cruises departing from Miami aboard Icon of the Seas until April 2026.

Eastern Caribbean itineraries may differ but typically include stops at destinations like St. Maarten, St. Thomas, Nassau in the Bahamas, Basseterre in St. Kitts and Nevis, San Juan in Puerto Rico, and the cruise line's exclusive island, Perfect Day at CocoCay in the Bahamas. As of the publication date, prices for the seven-night Eastern Caribbean cruise began at $1,619 per person.

Western Caribbean itineraries feature ports such as Costa Maya and Cozumel in Mexico, Roatan in Honduras, Nassau, and Perfect Day at CocoCay. Rates start at $1,579 per person, based on double occupancy, excluding taxes and fees.

With at least two sea days included in each sailing, guests will have plenty of time to take advantage of the ship's numerous attractions.

Top Caribbean cruise for families: Disney Cruise Line

In the realm of family cruises, Disney Cruise Line stands out as a top contender. As expected, the line is deeply focused on families, enhancing every aspect of the cruise experience — from onboard activities to family-friendly cabin designs.

Disney's meticulous attention to detail extends to its sea voyages. Children enjoy premium treatment with exceptional kids clubs and attractions such as the impressive 765-foot-long AquaDuck water coaster. They also get ample chances for memorable photos with beloved Disney characters.

Parents can relax at adults-only sun decks and pool areas restricted to children; there are also bars and clubs designated for guests aged 18 and older only.

Moreover, many cabins on Disney's ships come equipped with additional pull-down bunks and pull-out sofas, accommodating up to four or even five guests in one cabin. Most cabins also feature two bathrooms — one with a sink and toilet, and another with a sink plus either a shower or tub. This setup is uncommon in the cruise industry and is intended to ease the morning routine for families sharing accommodations.

For a week of family excitement on the open seas, consider a seven-night Western Caribbean cruise on the Disney Fantasy. Departing from Port Canaveral, the ship visits Cozumel, George Town in Grand Cayman, Falmouth in Jamaica, and Castaway Cay, Disney's exclusive island.

Additionally, depending on your sailing season, you can partake in unique onboard activities and celebrations for Halloween or Christmas.

Prices begin at $1,736.50 per person, based on double occupancy, and cover taxes, fees, and port charges.

Best budget Caribbean cruise: Carnival Cruise Line

When it comes to budget-friendly options in the Caribbean cruise market, Carnival Cruise Line stands out as the clear leader. Carnival not only offers lower prices than many of its competitors but also strategically positions its Caribbean ships in a wider range of U.S. home ports. This approach allows a significant portion of the U.S. population to reach a Carnival ship by car, eliminating flight costs.

Carnival ships are filled with fun attractions, featuring numerous pool areas, water parks with thrilling waterslides, basketball courts, miniature golf courses, and even roller coasters on some ships.

The cruise line is well-regarded for its many dining options included in the fare. Each ship typically boasts two main dining rooms and a casual buffet. Most also have two of the best quick-serve dining spots at sea: BlueIguana Cantina for burritos and tacos, and Guy's Burger Joint.

Carnival sails to the Caribbean from all major Florida cruise hubs, as well as from ports as diverse as New York City; Baltimore; Charleston, South Carolina; Norfolk, Virginia; Mobile, Alabama; New Orleans; and Galveston, Texas.

For budget-conscious travelers, the line's 10-day Eastern Caribbean cruise from New York City on the Carnival Venezia is an excellent option. Passengers can swim with gentle stingrays at Gibbs Cay or explore the historic Cockburn Town during a stop in Grand Turk, Turks and Caicos. In Amber Cove, Dominican Republic, adventurous travelers can embark on an exciting all-terrain vehicle tour through the lush countryside.

In 2024, enjoy year-round sailings with plenty of itineraries to suit your schedule and budget. Starting rates are $469 per person, based on double occupancy for a 10-night cruise, with additional taxes, fees, and port expenses not included.

Top Caribbean cruise for solo travelers: Norwegian Cruise Line

For solo cruisers in the Caribbean, Norwegian Cruise Line reigns supreme, especially among the major cruise lines. Since 2010, this Miami-based operator has been adding dedicated zones for solo travelers to the heart of every new ship launched in the region.

These exclusive zones can be found on Caribbean-bound vessels such as Norwegian Encore, Norwegian Breakaway, Norwegian Getaway, Norwegian Epic, and Norwegian Prima. Each zone, unique in the industry, features numerous cabins designed for solo travelers, all grouped together. Additionally, there's a private lounge with a bar and TV where solo guests can connect during daily happy hour events.

Referred to as Studio cabins, these compact solo rooms span just 100 square feet but are cleverly designed to optimize storage. The cabins feature a futuristic "Jetsons"-style aesthetic and vibrant mood lighting that stands out.

A significant drawback of Norwegian's solo cabins is that they are primarily "inside" rooms lacking an ocean view. However, many of these interior cabins come with a window overlooking a corridor. Additionally, due to their popularity, these solo cabins tend to sell out quickly, often at rates only slightly lower than double occupancy cabins.

Solo travelers looking for relaxation should consider the "10-day Bermuda & Caribbean: Puerto Rico & Dominican Republic" cruise departing from New York City on Norwegian Getaway.

This 3,963-passenger ship is packed with restaurants, bars, vibrant nightlife, and exceptional entertainment, including Broadway-style shows. Thanks to Norwegian's flexible dining approach, solo cruisers can avoid fixed dining times and enjoy meals with new friends at their convenience.

Bermuda serves as the initial destination on this six-port itinerary. Following Bermuda, the ship makes stops in St. Maarten, St. Thomas, San Juan, and Puerto Plata in the Dominican Republic.

Studio cabin rates begin at $1,499, not including taxes, fees, and port charges.

Best Caribbean cruise for luxury enthusiasts: Windstar Cruises

For those who insist on having butler service and an abundance of caviar, finding a luxury cruise in the Caribbean can be challenging. Many of the most opulent cruise lines primarily operate in Europe and Asia, or embark on exotic world cruises, treating the Caribbean as a secondary market.

Typically, luxury cruises in the Caribbean are only available during the winter season, from December to March. The months from April to October are largely unoccupied for upscale sailings.

If you're in search of a high-end cruising experience, Windstar Cruises should be on your list. Their seven-night "Classic Caribbean" itinerary aboard the Wind Surf is worth considering.

Windstar Cruises focuses on small vessels accommodating between 148 and 342 passengers each. While they refer to them as yachts, these ships are more akin to compact cruise ships featuring indoor lounges and shared dining areas.

The Wind Surf, which carries 342 passengers, boasts six decks, five masts, and offers four types of cabins, all with windows and no balconies. Cabin sizes range from 188 square feet for standard rooms to 376 square feet for suites.

Windstar Cruises ships feature a water sports platform. On select days when the ship is anchored — and weather, regulations, and other factors cooperate — guests can partake in various water activities such as stand-up paddleboarding, kayaking, and swimming directly from the ship. Additionally, you can relax on a float or enjoy views of the sparkling harbor from a large foam flotation island.

The Wind Surf also boasts several dining options, a pool, hot tubs, a boutique, a spa, and a fitness center for guests to enjoy.

The seven-night Classic Caribbean itinerary begins and concludes in St. Maarten, showcasing sun-soaked beaches, hidden coves, and crystal-clear waters at beautiful ports like St. Barts, St. Kitts and Nevis, Guadeloupe, Dominica, and St. Lucia.

All-inclusive rates start at $2,622, covering Wi-Fi, gratuities, and unlimited beer, wine, and cocktails. For cruise-only options, rates begin at $1,999, excluding taxes, fees, and port expenses.

Best adults-only Caribbean cruise: Virgin Voyages

Backed by Richard Branson, Virgin Voyages targets travelers who prefer a non-traditional cruising experience filled with a vibrant, party-like atmosphere. These ships are exclusively for adults, ensuring a child-free environment, making it an excellent choice for those seeking an adults-only cruise.

Virgin offers distinctive onboard experiences such as the first tattoo parlor at sea, numerous dining options included in the fare, complimentary exercise classes, and a convenient app that allows guests to order Champagne with a simple shake of their phone, delivered almost anywhere on the ship. All meals, soda, basic Wi-Fi, and crew tips are also included in the fare.

The inaugural vessel, Scarlet Lady, debuted in late 2021, followed by the addition of Valiant Lady and Resilient Lady in 2022 and 2023, respectively. The launch of the fourth ship, Brilliant Lady, has been postponed until September 2025.

The ships are equipped with trendy, adult-focused bars that promise an exciting nightlife, alongside hip venues like a vibrant karaoke lounge. The onboard entertainment is creative and often bolder than typical offerings found on traditional cruises.

The cabins feature a sleek, minimalist design with futuristic elements, while the suites boast a rock 'n' roll aesthetic, complete with in-room turntables and glass-enclosed showers.

The line's "Dominican Haze" five-night cruise to Bimini, Bahamas, and Puerto Plata departs from Miami on the 2,770-passenger Scarlet Lady. With two days at sea, this itinerary strikes a balance between onboard activities and exploration at port. Enjoy poolside parties or swim with stingrays at Virgin Voyages' Bimini Beach Club, unwind on pristine beaches, or go on a jungle adventure to discover waterfalls in the Dominican Republic.

Prices start at $913.75 per person, based on double occupancy, not including taxes and fees.

Best Caribbean cruise for couples: Holland America

Holland America features spacious midsize ships that accommodate a maximum of 2,700 guests, ensuring a serene and intimate cruising atmosphere perfect for couples looking to enjoy quality time together at sea.

Couples with a yearning for the Caribbean will delight in the nine-day "Southern Caribbean Seafarer" cruise departing from Fort Lauderdale on the Rotterdam. This 2,650-passenger vessel, launched in 2021, is the latest addition to Holland America's fleet.

Alongside a main dining room and a casual buffet, the Rotterdam boasts five distinct specialty restaurants, ranging from a pan-Asian venue to a high-end steakhouse. Onboard entertainment is diverse, featuring clubs dedicated to blues and classic rock, along with various musical performances in the main theater. Guests can also participate in complimentary activities such as cultural programs, pickleball lessons, and food and wine tastings.

Of course, guests can also unwind by the pool or treat themselves to a rejuvenating spa session.

During the Southern Caribbean Seafarer cruise, couples will explore Curacao, Aruba, and Half Moon Cay, Holland America's private island in the Bahamas. An overnight stay in Curacao allows travelers to delve into the island's rich history, culture, and natural attractions. Aruba presents a range of activities both underwater and on land, including submarine tours, snorkeling, hiking, and off-roading adventures. A visit to the stunning Half Moon Cay ensures a laid-back beach experience.

Rates begin at $799 per person, based on double occupancy, not including taxes and fees.