10 BEST CRUISE DESTINATIONS FROM ORLANDO, FLORIDA
When planning your dream Caribbean cruise in 2022, 2023 and beyond, there are considerations as important as the destination–like sailing from an adventure-packed spot and getting a great deal on an all-inclusive cruise. Orlando, with its world-famous amusement parks and wonderful shopping and dining, is your perfect springboard for such exciting destinations as the balmy Bahamas, jammin’ Jamaica and epic Perfect Day at CocoCay.
Publicado Septiembre 14, 2022
Breathtaking and diverse landscapes, from crystalline coasts to lush mountains, await your arrival by sea. You’ll discover that no two islands are the same, each dances to its own beat, drawing from its unique history, colourful folklore and tropical traditions. Sail to the Caribbean from a destination like no other. Orlando (Port Canaveral) cruises await you with exciting adventures and lifelong memories for the whole family.
BAHAMAS
If you are a bit tight on time and considering a weekend getaway, there is no better choice than the nearby Bahamas–home to translucent water caves, stunning private isles and majestic coral gardens. Sink your toes into the powdery sand of Ford's Beach, shop at the ultra-chic resort of Atlantis and get close and personal with marine creatures in Bimini. For a taste of local life, head to Nassau or Freeport and grab a conch salad–a refreshing, just-caught bite of deliciousness. Don’t miss a nature walk through mangroves or visiting historic treasures like Fort Charlotte, Queen's Staircase and Pompey Square. Souvenir shopping is a must as captivating local markets abound in the Bahamas. Bimini boasts a craft centre filled with eye-catching artisanal creations, Grand Bahama has a beautiful straw market and Atlantis Resort houses the celebrated Crystal Court, an exclusive shopping destination. Regardless of your mood–whether you fancy sunning on postcard beaches, delving into the pages of history, shopping to your heart’s content or feasting on the flavour-filled cuisine–you will find it all in the Bahamas.
PERFECT DAY
Thrills, chills and sun-soaked adventure await at Perfect Day at CocoCay, Royal Caribbean’s incredible private destination. Plunge down the tallest waterslide in North America, bodysurf the largest wave pool in the Caribbean or earn bragging rights ziplining where only birds dare fly! Take Insta-worthy shots from 137 metres up as you rise in a helium balloon, overlooking the magic of Perfect Day at CocoCay. Had your fill of thrills? Find relaxation on a whole new level at Chill Island, as transparent waters, soft sands and comfortable lounging areas invite you to settle in and stay a while. Grab a fruity drink at the swim-up bar and immerse yourself in this slice of paradise. Discover firsthand why vacation dreams come true in a big, bold way during this Perfect Day at CocoCay.
JAMAICA
The land of good vibes, Jamaica lures with its laid-back attitude, irresistible reggae music and heart for adventure. In this destination, it’s easy to go with the flow, fall into island time and enjoy Mother Nature’s generous bounty–including wondrous waterfalls, coral-filled bays and emerald rainforests. In Ocho Rios, the turquoise waters of Bamboo Beach Club are gorgeous, so definitely plan on a swim (or two or three!). Afterwards, explore the dense rainforest at Mystic Mountain or hike your way to splendid views at Mount Zion Hill Walk in Montego Bay. Thrill-seekers will love rafting on the Martha Brae River in Falmouth or trying the River Rapids Adventure in Ocho Rios. Take a taste of Jamaica back home, picking up some local rum and jerk seasonings, or shop for handmade artefacts at such places as the Old Fort Market in Montego Bay. For more seaside relaxation, head to Doctor's Cave Beach or Ocho Rios Bay Beach where you will be greeted by tranquil waters and lounging areas perfect for sunning and napping. Whatever you choose to do in Jamaica, you’ll leave feeling chill, relaxed and without a care in the world.
LABADEE
Experience your own private island at this Royal Caribbean® exclusive destination in gorgeous Haiti. Nestled on the country’s northern coast, Labadee offers adventure and relaxation in every fantastic shape and form. For those who want to amp their adrenaline to uncharted heights, Dragon's Breath Flight Line holds the title for the world's longest zip line over water! Hop on (if you dare!) to streak down 500 feet–suspended above the azure ocean–in your flight from mountain to beach. More dragon-ey excitement comes in the form of the Dragon's Tail Coaster, as you careen atop a mountain-hugging, heart-stopping, breathtaking roller-coaster. With over-the-water cabanas, stunning flora and fauna, a lively Haitian beat and tantalising delicacies (try a Labadoozie), Labadee is the bucket-list destination you simply can’t miss.
COZUMEL, MEXICO
Offering easy access to magnificent Mayan ruins as well as some of the most beautiful beaches in the world, Cozumel is the destination of choice for both admirers of ancient civilizations and die-hard beach buffs. In Cozumel you’ll find a captivating duality, with opportunities to drink in relaxation, soaking up serene ocean vistas or picking up the pace with the city’s lively Caribbean rhythms. Plan a trek to a temple, like San Gervasio, the largest ancient site on the island. Then head to Chankanaab National Park for an unforgettable scuba tour that features curious dolphins and other treasures of the deep. Feel like shopping? Then the place for you is the waterfront San Miguel market, a bustling destination filled with unique artisanal finds and handmade wares. When the need to refuel strikes, you’ll be challenged to choose among Mexico’s many mouth-watering specialties–but one taste of cochinita pibil (a pork dish) may just have you wanting to stay forever!
PUERTO COSTA MAYA, MEXICO
Costa Maya, located on the eastern side of the Yucatan Peninsula, is an enticing expanse of Caribbean coastline dotted with Mayan ruins, private beach clubs and mysteriously misty jungles! You’ll find a great deal to experience in this extraordinary destination, beginning with the Great Maya Reef, the second-largest in the world and home to more than 75 species of coral and hundreds of species of mollusks, fish, turtles, manatees and more. Dip into the cerulean waters of Cenote Azul, a stunning freshwater cenote you can dive and explore. To travel back to the ancient world, head to Chacchoben or Kohunlich, both found within the jungle and featuring Mayan ruins that are thousands of years old.
PUERTO RICO
Travel in style to San Juan from Orlando, sailing onboard the largest cruise ship to ever grace the oceans, the mind-bending Wonder of the Seas. Once in beautiful Puerto Rico, unleash your inner wild with a trek through El Yunque National Forest, a 29,000-acre marvel filled with waterfalls, dense jungles and mountain trails. Then, step into the 16th century at Castillo San Felipe del Morro, a citadel that looms over the coast and a UNESCO World Heritage Site that took 250 years to build. Finish your Puerto Rican getaway in Old San Juan, walking romantic cobblestone streets, shopping for hand-rolled cigars and handmade lace, then savouring mofongo (mashed fried plantains) at a local eatery. When it comes to paradise, Puerto Rico has it all.
ST. MAARTEN
For a veritable melting pot of cultures, sail to the perennially beautiful St. Maarten. With over one hundred nationalities represented on the island and more than 80 languages spoken, St. Maarten is the smallest landmass in the world to be shared by two different nations–in this case, France and the Netherlands. Explore the island from shore level or from high up in the mountains, taste your way through the many palate-pleasing fusions that restaurants offer, or shop in the Dutch capital for duty-free items. Swim in Simpson Bay Lagoon, the largest saltwater lagoon in the Caribbean, or visit the Loterie Farm–a nature sanctuary crisscrossed by hiking trails, and also featuring a multi-level pool, waterfalls and a zip line course. A visit to this island gem offers the chance to experience the best of both French and Dutch culture.
ST. THOMAS
A colourful port flanked by yachts and sailboats as well as lush mountains, St. Thomas is known for fine island dining, natural wonders and great shopping. If you're a history-lover with a penchant for buccaneers, you’ll find heaven in Blackbeard's Castle, which was built in 1679 and contains the world's largest collection of life-sized pirate statues. Also well-worth visiting, St. Thomas Synagogue and Frederick Lutheran Church are two of the oldest churches of their kind in the Western Hemisphere. Working up an appetite? Treat yourself to tropical bites at any of the many beachside cafes serving timeless favourites like coconut chicken and conch fritters. And if you decide to do a little bar-hopping, sample such local brews as Blackbeard Ale and St. John Brewers Virgin Islands beer. The island is also beloved for its beaches, including the crystalline Magens Bay–known as one of the top beaches on the planet–or Sapphire Beach. Either way, there are no wrong choices to be had on idyllic St Thomas.
ROATAN, HONDURAS
For a mix of powdery white sand beaches and verdant jungle canopies, cruise from Orlando to Honduras, where you will not only witness exceptional natural beauty but you’ll also enjoy the country’s vibrant culture. For underwater exploration, catch a snorkelling adventure through the world's second largest barrier reef off the coast of Honduras' Bay Islands. You'll swim with over 500 species of marine wildlife, from stingrays and spotted trunkfish to dolphins and whale sharks. If you're more of a land lover, trek through Gumbalimba Park, where monkeys swing from trees as you zipline on by. To top off your Honduran adventure, hop on a water taxi headed for the West End Village of Roatan. Once you arrive in this bustling area, be sure to grab some local conch soup before shopping for Lenca pottery in the nearby markets.
If you love next-level adventure-hopping, plan a Royal Caribbean cruise from Orlando (Port Canaveral), journeying from thrilling amusement parks to unforgettable jewels of the Caribbean. We hope this has helped you choose your destination, but rest assured, wherever you decide to cruise in the Caribbean you will have the time of your life!
