Your Ultimate Guide to Caribbean Group Cruises
The Caribbean has become synonymous with leisure cruising - so much so that you can’t be faulted if you think that’s where it all began. It’s not - the first leisure cruises were actually in the Mediterranean. In the 1960s, new cruise lines like Princess Cruises, Norwegian Cruise Line, and Royal Caribbean emerged, and began offering itineraries specifically focused on the Caribbean islands. Popularity exploded in the 1970s, when “The Love Boat” tv show introduced the cruising lifestyle to a much wider audience.
The Caribbean is a popular cruise destination for many reasons, including its tropical climate, beautiful beaches, and diverse cultures. It’s a beautiful, warm-weather escape all year round, so you and your group can cruise whenever you have the time and desire. The tropical beaches, with their white beaches, turquoise waters, and breathtaking sunsets, are picture perfect, and have something for everyone.
The Caribbean is home to a diverse mix of cultures, and many Caribbean cruises stop at multiple islands, so you can enjoy a variety of landscapes, activities, and experiences, and you only have to unpack once! No matter what their interests are, your group will have a great time in the Caribbean - snorkeling, exploring rainforests, and relaxing on the beach.
A map of the Caribbean Sea
The Islands of the Eastern Caribbean
The Eastern Caribbean is a region of the Caribbean Sea that is made up of the U.S. Virgin Islands, British Virgin Islands, St. Maarten, Puerto Rico, and the Dominican Republic. Since the islands of the eastern Caribbean are fairly close to the United States, this is one of the most popular routes for cruise ships in the Caribbean.
All of the Caribbean is known for its beautiful beaches, rich history, and unique culture, and the Eastern Caribbean is no different.
The U.S. Virgin Islands are known for their beautiful white-sand beaches, excellent snorkeling and diving opportunities, and vibrant culture.
The British Virgin Islands are popular for their secluded bays, sailing experiences, and the "The Baths" on Virgin Gorda.
St. Maarten is renowned for its lively nightlife, diverse culinary scene, and the unique experience of watching planes land at Maho Beach.
Puerto Rico is famous for its rich Spanish colonial architecture, lush rainforests like El Yunque, and bioluminescent bays.
The Dominican Republic is recognized for its extensive beachfront resorts, diverse landscapes, and vibrant culture with great food and rum options.
San Juan, Puerto Rico is the largest cruise port in the Caribbean, and is a popular departure point for Eastern Caribbean cruises. You can also sail to the Eastern Caribbean from Baltimore, MD, Bayonne, NJ, Galveston, TX, Fort Lauderdale, FL, Miami, FL, and New York, NY.
San Juan, Puerto Rico
The Islands of the Western Caribbean
The Western Caribbean is a region of the Caribbean Sea that includes the coasts of Central America and Colombia. It's made up of destinations like Costa Maya, Cozumel, and Progreso, Mexico; Belize and Honduras, and the islands of Grand Cayman and Jamaica. It is known for its tropical beauty, ancient ruins, and rich culture.
It’s also known for its:
Beaches: The region boasts pristine white sand beaches and crystal-clear waters, perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports.
Coral Reefs: The Western Caribbean is home to some of the world's most vibrant and diverse coral reefs, teeming with marine life. This makes it a paradise for snorkeling and scuba diving enthusiasts.
Ruins: History buffs will be captivated by the ancient Mayan ruins scattered throughout the region. Explore pyramids, temples, and other archaeological sites dating back to 300 A.D.
Rainforests: Lush rainforests cover parts of the Western Caribbean, offering opportunities for hiking, birdwatching, and exploring the natural beauty of the region.
Culture: The Western Caribbean is a melting pot of cultures, with influences from European colonizers, indigenous peoples, and African slaves. This rich heritage is reflected in the region's music, art, cuisine, and traditions.
Activities: There's no shortage of activities to enjoy in the Western Caribbean. From snorkeling and scuba diving to tubing, ziplining, and hiking, there's something for everyone.
Food: The region's diverse culinary scene offers a tantalizing array of flavors. Sample local delicacies like jerk chicken, rice and peas, tacos, tamales, ceviche, and empanadas.
Cruises to the Western Caribbean typically depart from Florida or Texas and have fewer ports of call than cruises to other parts of the Caribbean. They're often considered a good introduction to luxury cruising because of their beautiful destinations, shorter itineraries, and more affordable prices.
Arial photo of Belize
The Islands of the Southern Caribbean
The Southern Caribbean is made up of the islands of Aruba, Bonaire, Curacao, Barbados, St. Lucia, Grenada, St. Vincent and the Grenadines, Dominica, and Martinique. They are known for are known for their beaches, culture, and outdoor activities.
Martinique is known for its Creole culture, which is a melting pot of West African and Indian traditions.
Grenada and Dominica are known for their national parks, rainforests, and outdoor adventures. Grenada has the first underwater sculpture park.
Barbados: Known as the land of the flying fish, Barbados' national dish is cou cou and flying fish.
St. Vincent and the Grenadines: This chain of volcanic islands, islets and sandbanks, known for its unique black sand beaches, is made up of 32 small islands and cays. The St. Vincent Botanical Gardens is the oldest botanical garden in the Western Hemisphere and is a popular stop for nature lovers.
St. Lucia: A great place for coral reef snorkeling. It’s a volcanic island, but it has some of the most beautiful white/golden sand beaches in the Caribbean. It’s also known for their volcanic spires, The Pitons.
The ABC Islands (Aruba, Bonaire, and Curacao) are a popular family destination with colorful architecture, coral reefs, and year-round sunshine. Aruba is a haven for snorkelers and divers, Aruba has almost a dozen sites to see sunken wrecks, including the popular S.S. Antilla. Bonaire is known for its caves, windsurfing, and snorkeling. Curacao is known for its Dutch architecture and cuisine, which has African, Latin, and Jewish influences.
Southern Caribbean itineraries typically last more than a week and sail roundtrip from the ports of San Juan, Puerto Rico and Barbados, though you can also depart from Fort Lauderdale, Port Canaveral, Tampa, and Miami, FL. Some cruises also depart from Baltimore, MD.
The Pitons St Lucia
The best time to take a Caribbean cruise
The Caribbean offers a year-round paradise, but the best time to visit depends on your preferences:
Spring (March - May) in the Caribbean offers a delightful blend of pleasant weather, fewer crowds, and stunning natural beauty. Enjoy comfortable temperatures and sunshine throughout the season, making it ideal for outdoor activities and relaxation. With smaller crowds compared to peak season, you'll experience a more relaxed atmosphere and potentially lower prices on flights, accommodations, and activities. Admire the vibrant spring blooms and lush greenery as you explore the islands. Spring is also an excellent time for families, with many destinations offering family-friendly activities and events during spring break.
While spring is generally a pleasant time to visit the Caribbean, there are a few things to keep in mind. Occasional rain showers can occur, especially in the southern Caribbean. Additionally, some popular spring break destinations like Cancun and Punta Cana may experience increased crowds during this time. Overall, spring offers a fantastic opportunity to experience the Caribbean's beauty while enjoying a more relaxed and affordable vacation.
Summer (June - August) in the Caribbean offers a vibrant and exciting experience, with consistently warm weather, long days, and a lively atmosphere. Enjoy sunny days and perfect beach weather, ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports. With longer daylight hours, you can maximize your time outdoors and explore all that the Caribbean has to offer. Experience the vibrant energy and festive atmosphere of the region during peak season, with cultural festivals, music events, and other celebrations. Discover a variety of marine species thriving in the warm Caribbean waters during the summer months.
While summer offers many advantages, it's important to note that prices tend to be higher due to increased demand. Popular destinations may also experience larger crowds, especially during holidays and school breaks. Additionally, while the risk of hurricanes is relatively low during the summer months, it's always a good idea to stay informed about weather conditions and potential threats.
Fall (September - November) in the Caribbean offers a delightful blend of pleasant weather, fewer crowds, and stunning natural beauty. Enjoy comfortable temperatures and sunshine without the peak season crowds, making it an ideal time for a more relaxed and affordable vacation. Admire the vibrant fall foliage in some regions, such as the Dominican Republic and Puerto Rico, adding a touch of autumnal charm to your Caribbean getaway. While hurricanes can occur during the fall months, the risk is relatively low, especially in the southern Caribbean. Take advantage of potential deals and discounts on flights, accommodations, and activities during this shoulder season.
However, it's important to note that some destinations may experience occasional rain showers during the fall months. Additionally, compared to peak season, there may be fewer large-scale events and activities available. Overall, fall offers a fantastic opportunity to experience the Caribbean's beauty while enjoying a more relaxed and affordable vacation.
Winter (December - February) in the Caribbean offers a festive and enchanting experience. Enjoy the holiday spirit with festive decorations, special events, and New Year's celebrations. Spot whales migrating to warmer waters during this season, providing a unique and unforgettable experience. In the higher elevations of the Mexican Riviera, you may even be surprised by snow-capped mountains. Despite the potential for occasional rain showers, winter offers pleasant temperatures and sunshine.
While winter can be a delightful time to visit the Caribbean, it's important to note that prices tend to be higher due to increased demand. Popular destinations may also experience larger crowds during holidays and special events. Additionally, enjoy shorter days and longer nights, offering a cozy and romantic atmosphere for your winter getaway.
Cruise ship in the Caribbean Sea
Choose Your Ideal Caribbean Cruise Line
With so many cruise lines sailing the Caribbean, it might feel daunting to choose the ship, itinerary, and experience that’s right for your group. All cruise lines are different, and not every cruise line will be right for your group. Untethered Voyages will work to deeply understand your group dynamics and travel needs and recommend an option that will make your group cruise unforgettable. But we’ve also got some recommendations to get you started.
Best Cruise Lines for Family Groups
If you’re planning a family reunion, multi-generational trip, home school group cruise, or are planning to travel with lots of kids, you should consider these cruise lines.
Disney Cruise Line caters to for families with kids of all ages through it’s immersive Disney experiences, character meet-and-greets, age-appropriate activities, and exceptional dining options. These ships have plenty of Disney-themed entertainment, water parks, and dedicated youth clubs that will keep kid (and adult) sailors captivated and happy! Check out Disney Cruise Line blog post for more details.
Disney Cruise Line’s Disney Dream
Royal Caribbean International is known for it’s innovative ships and family-friendly atmosphere. They have launched many “first at sea” adventure experiences, including the FlowRider surf simulator, rock-climbing walls, and DreamWorks Experience. Their adventure-packed experiences, water parks, and variety of dining options make this a great cruise line for family groups.
Norwegian Cruise Line creates a family-friendly environment with it’s flexible dining options, family-friendly activities, and a relaxed atmosphere. Their ships feature race tracks, ropes courses and the fastest dry slides and drop slides at sea. They also often offer Kids Sail Free promotions.
Runner-Up: Carnival Cruise Line creates a great family environment with their run-filled atmosphere, affordable prices, and a wide range of activities for all ages. Their ships feature water parks, mini-golf courses, and family-friendly shows. Read about our recent family group cruise on the Carnival Firenze!
Best Cruise Lines for Professional Groups
More and more group organizers are taking their professional communities, business retreats, and coaching workshops on cruises. Many cruise lines offer a modern luxury experience that will wow your professional group. These are our favorites.
Celebrity Cruises offers modern, luxurious ships with state-of-the-art meeting facilities, professional staff, and a wide range of dining and entertainment options. Your group will have access to innovative venues, high-speed internet, and a serene ambiance. And when they’re not in meetings, their ships provide plenty of opportunities to network, relax, and recharge.
Royal Caribbean International provides spacious meeting rooms, advanced technology, and many choices for dining and entertainment. Their ships offer comfortable meeting spaces, high-speed internet, and thrilling adventure experiences your attendees can enjoy together in their downtime.
Virgin Voyages, an adults-only cruise line with a modern and stylish ambiance offers flexible meeting spaces, high-quality service, innovative technology, diverse dining options, and wellness and relaxation facilities. They offer free wifi to every sailor, and plenty of unique entertainment options that make unique shared group experiences.
Virgin Voyages’ Valiant Lady
Runner-Up: Carnival Cruise Line offers affordable rates, a variety of meeting spaces, and flexible meeting packages. Their ships have a fun and relaxed atmosphere, so your attendees can unwind and get to know their group better.
Best Cruise Lines for Wellness Groups
If your group is specifically seeking a traditional wellness retreat with yoga, meditation, and spa treatments, we highly recommend these cruise lines.
Celebrity Cruises has a robust wellness programs on every ship, and they offer everything from yoga and meditation to fitness classes. They have world-class spas with a variety of treatments, and they provide a range of healthy dining options. They’ve created a calm and relaxing environment, perfect for your group to unwind and recharge. Check out our blog on their Aqua Class experience!
Celebrity Cruises’ Celebrity Edge
Seabourn Cruise Line is renowned for its luxurious and wellness-focused cruises. Their smaller ships create a more intimate and tranquil atmosphere that is perfect for relaxation. Their ships include world-class spas with a wide range of treatments, including massages, facials, and acupuncture. They also offer healthy dining options, quiet retreats, and personalized group wellness programs, including yoga, meditation, and fitness classes.
Holland America Line’s ships have a quiet and relaxing atmosphere that is ideal for wellness retreats and yoga retreats. They also have healthy dining options, serene spaces for relaxation and meditation, and well-equipped fitness centers for group workouts at sea.
Runner-Up: Princess Cruises offers a balance of relaxation and adventure, making it a great choice for groups seeking a wellness-focused cruise. Their ships feature state-of-the-art fitness centers, with a variety of classes, including yoga, Pilates, and spinning. They also offer wellness programs, luxurious spa treatments, and healthy dining options.
Best Cruises for Culture, Language & Heritage Groups
If you organize a history, architecture, language, ancestry or heritage group, or your travel group just prefers to spend more time in ports than on the ship, these cruise lines, which offer destination-immersive experiences are our top choices.
Explora Journeys is known for its luxurious experiences, smaller ships that can access unique ports and harbors, and destination-immersive itineraries. They offer a refined and sophisticated way to explore historical sites and cultural landmarks. They also provide opportunities to connect with local communities and experience authentic cultures and knowledgeable guides who offer insights into local culture, history, and cuisine.
Viking Ocean Cruises, an adults-only cruise line focuses on cultural enrichment, offering a variety of shore excursions and lectures led by experts. They have unique and immersive shore excursions led by expert guides, with a focus on history and culture: Their smaller ships allow for easier access to smaller ports so your group can delve deeper into the destinations they visit.
Azamara Cruise Lines has a focus on small-ship cruising. They offer intimate experiences in unique destinations, with extended stays and overnights, allowing guests to delve deeper into local cultures and history. They offer cultural enrichment programs and local experiences designed to immerse your group in local culture and history.
An Azamara Ship in Port
Runners-Up: Celebrity Cruises and Holland America Line also offer culturally enriching experiences that your group will enjoy. Celebrity Cruises offers destination-immersive itineraries, coupled with luxurious and sophisticated experiences, emphasizing culinary experiences, wellness, and entertainment. Holland America Line offers a more traditional cruise experience, with a strong focus on history, culture, and art. They also provide opportunities to explore various destinations and learn about local cultures.
Unsure which Caribbean cruise is right for your group? We love matchmaking! We’ve got more tips on group cruises here. Or reach out and let us help select the right cruise for your group’s interests and needs.
Untethered Voyages provides a full range of travel support for group cruises. If your group is planning a Caribbean adventure, let us take care of the planning and booking details so you can focus on connection and strengthening your community.
