Southern Caribbean Adventurer From San Juan

San Juan's picturesque cobblestone streets, plazas and chapels reflect its Spanish heritage. But the second oldest city in the Americas also boasts fine beaches, lush rainforests, verdant mountainsides, imposing forts and a lovely tropical climate. Ships will dock at this port.

Top Things to Do in San Juan:

• explore the El Yunque Rainforest
• visit the Bacardi Rum Distillery
• visit Fort Cristobal and the Old Town
• play a round of golf at the Palmes del Mar Golf Resort
• sail in San Juan Bay

St. Thomas, part of the U.S. Virgin Islands, offers a blend of pristine beaches, vibrant culture, and rich history. Begin your day exploring Charlotte Amalie, the island's capital, where you can wander through the historic district filled with 17th-century Danish architecture. Don’t miss Blackbeard’s Castle, a watchtower that offers panoramic views of the harbor.

For a more relaxed experience, head to Magens Bay, renowned for its crystal-clear waters and soft white sand, perfect for swimming and sunbathing. Adventure seekers can snorkel at Coki Beach, known for its colorful marine life. St. Thomas also boasts a range of duty-free shopping options, with boutique stores offering everything from local crafts to luxury goods.

Sint Martin, a gem in the Caribbean, is renowned for its dual French and Dutch heritage. This unique blend offers travelers a diverse cultural experience. In the French capital, Marigot, visit the bustling open-air markets and savor gourmet dining, while in Philipsburg on the Dutch side, indulge in duty-free shopping and lively beach bars. Maho Beach, famous for its low-flying planes, is a must-see spectacle.

For nature lovers, the island offers pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters perfect for snorkeling and diving. Loterie Farm provides an adventurous escape with zip-lining and hiking trails. Don't miss the opportunity to sample local delicacies like conch fritters and guavaberry liqueur, which reflect the island’s rich culinary traditions.

Philipsburg is the capital of Dutch Sint Maarten and it's port is conveniently located about 2 kilometers (1.2 miles) from downtown Philipsburg, taking roughly 5 minutes by car or a leisurely 20-minute walk. Visitors can explore the vibrant Front Street, known for its duty-free shopping, colorful boutiques, and lively cafes. Transportation options include taxis, rental cars, and water taxis. Don’t miss a visit to the Great Bay Beach, just steps from the main shopping area, or venture to Maho Beach to watch planes land dramatically close to the shore.

Antigua and Barbuda beckon with their pristine beaches and vibrant history. For beach enthusiasts, Antigua presents a different shore for each day of the year, like the tranquil Half Moon Bay. Adventure seekers can explore the mysterious caves at Two Foot Bay in Barbuda, offering a glimpse into the island’s natural wonders.

History buffs will find Nelson’s Dockyard, a UNESCO World Heritage site in Antigua, a compelling visit, showcasing the island's rich naval history. For a unique experience, take a boat tour to the Frigate Bird Sanctuary in Barbuda, one of the world’s largest, to observe these magnificent birds in their natural habitat. Culinary explorers can delight in the local cuisine, with seafood and Creole dishes highlighting the islands’ cultural melting pot.

Cruise ships dock at the St. John's Cruise Port, a bustling gateway mere steps away from the city's vibrant streets and markets. The terminal's location is ideal, placing visitors within a short walking distance (0.5 km, 0.3 miles, about 5 minutes) from the heart of St. John's. Here, colorful colonial architecture and local eateries welcome travelers seeking a taste of Antiguan culture.

For those looking to explore beyond the city, public buses and taxis are readily available. A popular destination is Nelson's Dockyard, roughly 19 km (12 miles, about 30 minutes) away, offering a glimpse into the island's rich naval history amidst stunning scenery. Remember, Antigua boasts 365 beaches—one for every day of the year—making any coastal excursion a must-do.

St. Vincent, the largest island in St. Vincent & The Grenadines, offers a blend of natural beauty and vibrant culture. Kingstown, the capital, features the historic St. George’s Anglican Cathedral and the bustling Kingstown Market, perfect for experiencing local life.

Boat excursions around the island reveal stunning coastal views and access to attractions like the Tobago Cays Marine Park, renowned for its clear waters and abundant marine life. The island’s Botanic Gardens, one of the oldest in the Western Hemisphere, showcase a diverse range of tropical plants. Adventure seekers can hike up La Soufrière, an active volcano, for breathtaking panoramic views.

Bridgetown, the captivating capital of Barbados, combines faded colonial history, captivating tradition, and vivid white beaches. Stately colonial buildings intermingle with colourful wooden homes, open-air markets and catch-of-the-day cafés. Ships will dock at this port.

Top Things to Do in Bridgetown:

• ride an electric tram into Harrison Cave
• look for green monkeys in the Barbados Wildlife Reserve
• relax at the Copacabana Beach Bar
• visit the George Washington House
• go underwater in the Atlantis Submarine

Even if you’re not sailing to Naples (this time), you can still enjoy one of their greatest contributions to the culinary world. Alfredo’s / Gigi’s Pizzeria serves up certified authentic Neapolitan pizza made to order from scratch in a cheery restaurant named after our very own executive chef and inspired by the colors and landscapes of the Amalfi coast.

San Juan's picturesque cobblestone streets, plazas and chapels reflect its Spanish heritage. But the second oldest city in the Americas also boasts fine beaches, lush rainforests, verdant mountainsides, imposing forts and a lovely tropical climate. Ships will dock at this port.

Top Things to Do in San Juan:

• explore the El Yunque Rainforest
• visit the Bacardi Rum Distillery
• visit Fort Cristobal and the Old Town
• play a round of golf at the Palmes del Mar Golf Resort
• sail in San Juan Bay

St. Croix is the largest of the U.S. Virgin Islands. Start your visit in Christiansted, a charming town known for its well-preserved colonial architecture and the historic Fort Christiansvaern. The fort offers insights into the island's past and stunning views of the harbor.

Head to Buck Island Reef National Monument for a snorkeling adventure among vibrant coral reefs and marine life. The island’s diverse landscape includes the lush rainforest of the north shore and the arid, cacti-strewn East End. Don't forget to visit the Cruzan Rum Distillery to learn about the island's rum-making tradition and enjoy a tasting.

The port town for the island of St. Kitts, Basseterre has centuries of history to explore in impressive estates and photo-worthy monuments. With more than a quarter of the island set aside as a national park and a rainforest that is growing rather than shrinking, St. Kitts is a stunning tropical island escape. Ships will dock at this port.

Top Things to Do in Basseterre:

• hike the Mount Liamuiga trail
• circle St. Kitts in a restored vintage train
• zip line in the Valley of Giants
• visit the Brimstone Hill Fortress

Fort-de-France, located on Martinique is the largest city in the French West Indies and it has personality to match. Life here is vibrant and fast-paced, and the culture is as colourful as the brightly painted shops that line the city’s cobblestone streets. Ships will dock at the port.

Top Things to Do in Fort-de-France:

• visit the Botanical Gardens
• join a rainforest hike to Absalon
• visit the Rum Distillery
• explore a banana plantation
• see the ruins of Chateau Dubuc
• take a helicopter flight over Martinique

Grenada, the Caribbean's "Isle of Spice," is renowned for producing nutmeg, mace, clove, cinnamon, and cocoa. The island's fragrant aroma envelops its emerald hillsides, tropical forests, and sun-drenched beaches. Start your adventure by snorkeling at the unique Underwater Sculpture Park, an underwater gallery of marine life and art.

For stunning views, visit Fort Frederick, then explore the lush landscapes of Grand Etang National Park. Spot sea turtles at Levera National Park and tour a spice garden to learn about the island's famous spices. For a thrilling experience, try river tubing down the Balthazar River. Grenada's vibrant culture and natural beauty make it a captivating destination.

Bridgetown, the captivating capital of Barbados, combines faded colonial history, captivating tradition, and vivid white beaches. Stately colonial buildings intermingle with colourful wooden homes, open-air markets and catch-of-the-day cafés. Ships will dock at this port.

Top Things to Do in Bridgetown:

• ride an electric tram into Harrison Cave
• look for green monkeys in the Barbados Wildlife Reserve
• relax at the Copacabana Beach Bar
• visit the George Washington House
• go underwater in the Atlantis Submarine

Love Sabatini’s? (Or really good Italian dinners?) You’ll be happy to hear this popular specialty restaurant has returned to its roots. Think traditional Italian comfort cuisine. Our new menu embraces the old: tried-and-true family recipes our chefs brought with them from Italy, plus exquisite Italian wines and cocktails. You can even enjoy some shareable plates exclusively at Sabatini’s Trattoria.

San Juan's picturesque cobblestone streets, plazas and chapels reflect its Spanish heritage. But the second oldest city in the Americas also boasts fine beaches, lush rainforests, verdant mountainsides, imposing forts and a lovely tropical climate. Ships will dock at this port.

Top Things to Do in San Juan:

• explore the El Yunque Rainforest
• visit the Bacardi Rum Distillery
• visit Fort Cristobal and the Old Town
• play a round of golf at the Palmes del Mar Golf Resort
• sail in San Juan Bay