Shirley Heights Lookout in Antigua, overlooking the lush landscape of English Harbour.

Caribbean and Bahamas Cruise Tips & Travel Advice

With endless tropical destinations to explore and one-of-a-kind adventures to experience, planning your cruise to the Caribbean and Bahamas can feel overwhelming. Fortunately, we’ve got you covered. From the best time to go on a Caribbean cruise and what to pack to activities for when your ship docks, we’ve got all you need to plan your dream trip to paradise.

Packing and Planning for Your Trip

Gear up for your Caribbean and Bahamas cruise with our packing tips and travel advice for first-timers.

Find the Best Caribbean Cruise

Whether you’re cruising to the islands for the very first time, organizing an epic family vacation, or spending your honeymoon on the Caribbean’s secluded shores, let’s find the best cruise itinerary for your travel dreams.

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Family swimming in the Caribbean Sea on a Holland America cruise.

Caribbean Guide for First-Timers

Welcome to the islands! Our Caribbean cruise tips for first- timers will help you navigate the weather, cuisine, activities, and more that await you in paradise.

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Suitcase packed with summer clothes and accessories for a Caribbean cruise.

Caribbean Cruise Packing List

Wondering what to pack for your Caribbean cruise? Our complete packing list has got you covered from head to toe, so you can enjoy a safe and comfortable trip.

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When to Go on a Caribbean Cruise

Learn more about Caribbean weather, seasons, and festivities, so you can time your cruise perfectly.

Couple walking on a beach in the Caribbean, with a Holland America cruise ship on the horizon.

Best Month to Cruise the Caribbean

When is the best time for a Caribbean cruise? It depends who you ask! Learn about the best months for uncrowded beaches, blue skies, and festivities.

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Caribbean Weather by Month

The Caribbean has two types of weather: gorgeous and gorgeous with a chance of showers. Learn more about seasonal temps and rainfall.

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Best Things to Do in the Caribbean

Discover the best things to see and do in the Caribbean, including beaches, activities, dining, and more. Uncover hidden gems, thrilling shore excursions, and local traditions.

Mushrooms, meat, cilantro, and a lime slice in a in ceramic bowl.

7 Must-Try Caribbean Dishes

Caribbean food is full of flavor and color. Taste your way around the islands with this list of must-try Caribbean dishes.

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St Lucia's twin Pitons by the ocean with pink flowers.

5 Best Caribbean Destinations

Whether you’re dreaming of pristine beaches, thrilling adventures, or cultural immersion, these top Caribbean destinations have something for everyone.

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A pair of lounge chairs under a straw umbrella on a Caribbean beach.

10 Best Caribbean Beaches

From the wind-sculpted trees on Aruba’s Eagle Beach to Bonaire’s rosy shores, here's our short list of the best beaches in the Caribbean.

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Caribbean Island Spotlights

Take a closer look at coveted islands in the Caribbean and Bahamas, and find out how to spend your day in paradise.

Holland America ship arriving to Half Moon Cay in the Bahamas.

25 Things To Do On Half Moon Cay

Your playground in paradise awaits. Kayak across the crystalline waters of Bonefish Lagoon, get a massage in a cooled cabana, or even get hitched.

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Explore Caribbean and Bahamas Cruises

Find your perfect getaway with 7- to 21-day cruises across the Caribbean and Bahamas. Each cruise takes you deep into these featured regions, where you’ll experience a unique slice of paradise.

Eastern Caribbean

Snorkel in Grand Turk’s clear blue waters, teeming with colorful coral and tropical fish. Soak up city life in vibrant San Juan. Rent a private cabana on Half Moon Cay, our award-winning private island.

Explore Eastern Caribbean

Western Caribbean

Zipline through lush canopies, climb majestic waterfalls, and swim with playful dolphins in Jamaica. Sail along the shimmering shores of Cozumel aboard a luxury catamaran. Relish the laid-back lifestyle in Key West.

Explore Western Caribbean

Southern Caribbean

Explore Bonaire’s protected reefs, the Dominican Republic’s lush rainforests, and Half Moon Cay’s crystal lagoon. Snorkel around a shipwreck in Aruba. Tour the historic center of Willemstad, Curaçao.

Explore Southern Caribbean

Bahamas

Meet friendly stingrays, snorkel a wreck site, and explore a museum built entirely from recycled materials in Bimini. Tour the historic treasures of Nassau. Enjoy a luxurious beach day on Half Moon Cay.

Explore Bahamas

Discover all Caribbean & Bahamas Cruise Destinations