8 Night Eastern Caribbean Cruise

Greens in every shade spring from the rolling hills of St. Kitts— an island ripe with eco-tourism adventures. In the port city of Basseterre, you’ll find centuries of history to explore in impressive estates and photo-worthy monuments like the Brimstone Hill Fortress, one of the best preserved military structures in the Americas. Cruise to St. Kitts & Nevis and venture beyond the port and gear up for a unique climb up the 3,792-foot Mount Liamuiga volcano for views well worth the hike. Or hop in a kayak to get up close with a rainbow of tropical reef fish. Looking for something a little more laidback? Escape to the tiny unhurried sister island, Nevis, for smooth golden beaches and clear-water snorkeling— it’s just a thirty minute ferry ride away.

What makes St. Maarten so unique is its blend of cultures. The island is home to 120 different nationalities speaking over 80 languages, and is governed by two countries: the Netherlands and France. In fact, it’s the smallest land mass in the world to be shared by two different nations. While it may be less than 40 square miles, there’s plenty to do on this little island: you can travel back in time while exploring centuries-old ruins and get your adrenaline fix ziplining through lush tropical forests. If you’re after a little rest and relaxation during your cruise to St. Maarten, you’ll find plenty of secluded beaches where you can work on your suntan before treating your taste buds to some of the best cuisine in the Caribbean.

Charlotte Amalie is one of the world’s most beautiful harbors; blue waters peppered with sailboats and green hills dotted with quaint little cottages make for post-card perfect brags. Just outside the lively port town, you’ll find ribbons of powdery sand beaches dotted with hammocks. Cruise to St. Thomas and explore colonial landmarks like Blackbeard’s Castle or raise a pint of the local lager at quaint microbreweries. And when it’s time to fuel up, you’ll find plenty of beachside bars serving conch fritters, johnnycakes, and coconut patties. St. Thomas may technically be part of the U.S., but with its colorful markets, unspoiled beaches, and the ever-present sound of steel drums, you’ll feel a world away.

Caribbean charm shines in the Bahamian capital, where you’re never more than a few steps away from rhythmic percussions, appetizing flavors, white-sand beaches, and some of the clearest waters in the world. This picture-perfect paradise was once a pirate’s haven— and you can explore its colorful past of buccaneers, blockade-runners and bootleggers along historical streets and at the three colonial fortresses that line the shores. If you’re looking for a more hands-on maritime adventure, look no further. Cruise to Nassau and swim with stingrays, dive with dolphins, or spot colorful coral on a glass-bottom boat. And just across the bridge is beautiful Paradise Island, home to world-famous luxury hotels and resorts. Spend the day at the famous Atlantis and splash your way through its expansive water park, grab a piña colada at the Marina Village, and spot the hammerhead sharks in Predator Lagoon.