Top Southern Caribbean Cruise Destinations

Picking the perfect cruise itinerary can be daunting with so many stunning islands and ports to explore. Simplify your vacation by focusing on one region. For a blend of culture, family-friendly activities, and beautiful beaches, the Southern Caribbean is unbeatable. This paradise offers island-hopping adventures, letting you explore multiple dream destinations in one trip.

We've highlighted some of the top Southern Caribbean ports, each offering unique experiences for every type of traveler.

Where to Go For...

Best Starting Point: San Juan

Located about 1,000 miles southeast of Miami, Puerto Rico is perfectly positioned for exploring the Southern Caribbean's most stunning islands, such as Dominica, St. Lucia, Barbados, and St. Kitts. San Juan, the island's charming and historic capital, is an ideal starting point for a cruise to these breathtaking destinations. Dinogo Fascination offers year-round cruises from San Juan, with itineraries from three to seven days. Starting your journey here also allows you to explore Puerto Rico’s treasures, from its beaches and historic sites like the San Felipe Del Morro fortress to its delicious local cuisine.

Excellent Diving: Barbados

Barbados is a diver’s paradise, home to hundreds of shipwrecks that offer one-of-a-kind underwater adventures. Famous wrecks can be explored in areas like Folkestone Underwater Park and Carlisle Bay Marine Park. For coral reef enthusiasts, Asta Reef and Dottins Reef are easily accessible. If you prefer to stay above the water, relax on world-class beaches like Crane Beach and Silver Sands.

Dramatic Natural Landscapes: St. Lucia

Arriving in St. Lucia feels like stepping into a scene from a famous dinosaur movie, with lush greenery everywhere you look. To truly appreciate the island, immerse yourself in its natural wonders. The Grand Pitons, two towering volcanic peaks, Gros Piton and Petit Piton, soar 2,600 feet above the sea and are a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Other must-see spots include Sulphur Springs for a soothing mud bath, the Jacquot Trail, Pigeon Island National Park, and the beautiful Marigot Bay. Be sure to explore downtown Castries near the pier for local shopping and cuisine.

Action with a View: St. Kitts

On St. Kitts, you can blend adventure with stunning scenery. Whether zip-lining past views of Brimstone Hill National Park and Mount Liamuiga, taking a 4×4 tour through the rainforest, or stand-up paddleboarding at Friars Bay and Frigate Bay Beach, you’re in for thrilling experiences paired with breathtaking landscapes. For a more relaxed pace, hop on the St. Kitts Scenic Railway, also called the Sugar Cane Train, and enjoy a comfortable ride through history and natural beauty.

Sugar and Spice and All Things Nice: Grenada

Known as the 'Isle of Spice,' Grenada is a haven for food lovers. Its fertile volcanic soil is perfect for growing nutmeg, cinnamon, cloves, ginger, and allspice, which you can explore on tours of Dougaldston Spice Estate and Gouyave Nutmeg Station. For chocolate lovers, a visit to Carlton Cocoa Station offers insights into cocoa processing and a chance to taste the local delights. Don’t miss out on Grenada's famous dishes like 'oil down,' a fish and breadfruit stew, 'Cou cou pois,' and 'lambie souse,' a savory conch dish.

And then there’s...

More incredible Southern Caribbean destinations to cruise to:

Martinique: With French charm, towering mountains, tropical rainforests, and lush gardens, this island is an exotic paradise waiting to be explored.

St. Thomas: The gateway to the U.S. Virgin Islands offers a rich history, great shopping, and plenty of sunny activities for cruise-goers.

St. Maarten: A blend of European flair and tropical beauty, the Dutch side of this island boasts stunning beaches and some of the best shopping in the Caribbean.

Dominica: A haven for nature enthusiasts, where you can hike waterfalls, zip through rainforests, unwind in hot springs, or relax on the beach.

Aruba: A vibrant downtown rich in Dutch heritage appeals to urban explorers, while a unique blend of beaches and sand dunes offers endless adventure for thrill-seekers.

Curacao: A colorful, cosmopolitan gem perfect for food enthusiasts, shoppers, and those who love to relax on the beach.

For diverse cultural experiences, family-friendly activities, or some of the Caribbean's finest beaches, the Southern Caribbean is unbeatable.