Eastern vs Western vs Southern Caribbean Cruises: What’s the Difference?

Imagine a perfect tropical island. Does it include lush volcanic peaks rising dramatically above the sea? Or maybe a palm-fringed beach with crystal-clear water? Whatever your ideal island escape looks like, you are likely to find it in the Caribbean. The warm waters are host to some 7,000 different islands belonging to 28 nations, many of which are considered the best Caribbean cruise destinations for travelers seeking beaches and adventure. It is a varied lot in terms of topography — and culturally, too, with Americans, Dutch, English, French and Spanish, among others, having left their marks on this sun-kissed corner of the world. Now it’s your turn to explore it. But where should you go? If you’re deciding between an Eastern vs Western vs Southern Caribbean cruise, each region offers different islands, cultures and experiences. Read on to find out which one is right for you.

Rest assured, however, that nearly all of our Caribbean cruises include a call at RelaxAway, Half Moon Cay™, our award-winning private Bahamian island. This quaint sanctuary features new enhancements, including a new Beach Club, tranquil lounges, and exclusive flavors.

• Each Caribbean cruise region offers a different experience, from beach-focused Eastern itineraries to adventure-heavy Western routes and culturally rich Southern islands.
• Eastern Caribbean cruises typically visit islands closer together, making them ideal for shorter itineraries with fewer sea days.
• Western Caribbean cruises are known for outdoor excursions, including Mayan ruins, waterfalls and snorkeling destinations.
• Southern Caribbean cruises often travel farther south, visiting unique islands like Aruba, Curaçao, and Barbados.
• Choosing between an Eastern vs Western vs Southern Caribbean cruise depends on your travel style, preferred ports and how many sea days you want.

Whatever eastern Caribbean cruise itinerary you choose, sun-soaked relaxation is in the cards, which is why many travelers consider this region one of the best Caribbean cruise itinerary options for first-time cruisers. The islands of the eastern Caribbean are in relatively close proximity, so you can wake up every day at a new destination. Ports often include San Juan, Puerto Rico; St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands; Amber Cove, Dominican Republic; and Nassau, Bahamas. Amble atop a 17th-century fortress in Puerto Rico or kayak a sparkling bioluminescent bay. Cruise to Turks and Caicos to comb white sand beaches while the sea-breeze tangles your hair. Whichever cruise you choose, in the eastern Caribbean the promise of paradise awaits.

Western Caribbean itineraries are known for outdoor adventure. Relax and soak up the sun or embark on a thrilling, can’t-do-anywhere-else excursion that you’ll remember forever. Sail on a catamaran and snorkel at Bonaire Marine Park or take a hike up Dunn’s River Falls. Go under the surface in a submarine off Grand Cayman to see rare marine life or head to the archaeological site of Mayan Tulum from Cozumel. The best time to visit the Western isles on a cruise is between December through April, when the weather is perfect and there’s very little rain. Because the western Caribbean islands are a bit further apart, a cruise in this region usually offers a few sea days to enjoy onboard activities.