Southern Caribbean Cruise EVENTYRET BEGYNNER HER
San Juan , Puerto Rico | Tortola , British Virgin Islands | St. Johns , Antigua | Bridgetown , Barbados | Castries , St. Lucia | Punta Cana , Dominican Republic | San Juan , Puerto Rico
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San Juan, Puerto Rico
TAKE IT DESPACITO
Your journey begins in San Juan, Puerto Rico’s vibrant capital. You’ll find 500 years of history to delve into here, from ancient fortresses to colorful colonial-era buildings. If you’re traveling to San Juan by plane, arrive at least a day earlier to explore this beautiful city. If you’re arriving the same day, the airport is just a twenty-minute taxi ride to the port.
Your journey begins in San Juan, Puerto Rico’s vibrant capital. You’ll find 500 years of history to delve into here, from ancient fortresses to colorful colonial-era buildings. If you’re traveling to San Juan by plane, arrive at least a day earlier to explore this beautiful city. If you’re arriving the same day, the airport is just a twenty-minute taxi ride to the port.
in San Juan
EXPLORE EL YUNQUE
El Yunque National Forest offers 29,000 acres of mountain terrain exploding with overgrown jungle, fast flowing waterfalls, and towering bamboo stands. Hike along 23 miles of nature trails, or summit El Toro— nearly 3500 feet above sea level— for sensational views.
Local Cuisine
In Old San Juan, you’ll find plenty of island fare and criolla cuisine— home cooking flavored by Spanish and African influences. Try some mofongo, mashed fried green plantains often stuffed with meat, or snack on some codfish fritters, called bacalaitos.
INSIDER TIP
The free, open-air trolleys in Old San Juan are a great way to see the city’s top sites.
Tortola, British Virgin Islands
FULL SAILS AND PIRATE TALES
Tortola blends British roots, West Indies flair and a colorful history built upon pirate lore. Explore the capital city of Road Town. Charter a boat for a scenic sail. Or take a ferry to the neighboring islands of Virgin Gorda, Anegada or Jost Van Dyke.
Tortola blends British roots, West Indies flair and a colorful history built upon pirate lore. Explore the capital city of Road Town. Charter a boat for a scenic sail. Or take a ferry to the neighboring islands of Virgin Gorda, Anegada or Jost Van Dyke.
in Tortola
Nature Isle
Venture to Anegada, the BVI’s only coral island, to explore its secluded beaches, wildlife, and underwater coral gardens. Snorkel past swimming stingrays and tropical fish. Marvel at ancient Arawak conch mounds. Glimpse native flowers and rare rock iguanas. Or bask in the calm and undisturbed seaside scenery.
Island Hopper
Take a ferry or water taxi ride across calm Caribbean waters to any one of the nearby islands. Explore the tucked-away alcoves of Virgin Gorda. Go shopping in the duty-free mecca of St. Thomas. Or relish the rugged scenery and intriguing folklore of Jost Van Dyke, the BVI’s smallest island.
Take The Helm
Cast away on a sailboat, catamaran, bareboat or yacht in the charter-boat capital of the Caribbean. Your Virgin Island cruise might take you to hidden coves and pristine cays— or cross Drake Channel past the sea caves of Norman Island, believed to be the inspiration for Robert Louis Stevenson’s novel Treasure Island.
Local Cuisine
Tortola is known for a delicious blend of Caribbean, West Indian and British-inspired flavors. Try local delicacies like fresh Anegada lobster, conch fritters and Johnnycakes (cornmeal flatbread). Eat shepherd’s pie or fish and chips— and don’t miss rotis (Indian-style turnovers filled with curried goat). “Fish and fungi” is the official dish of the BVI, while the rum-based Painkiller from Pusser’s is world-famous.
Shopping
For authentic Tortolan souvenirs, pick up Caribbean spices, jams, or gemstones, especially black coral and jasper. Stop in Serendipity Bookshop for works by West Indian and BVI authors. Pusser’s Company Store, with locations in both Road Town and the West End, sells nautical accessories, artwork and their super-popular rum.
INSIDER TIP
Casual clothing— no swimsuits or shirtless attire— is appropriate to wear in town.
St. Johns, Antigua
SANDY SHORES GALORE
In the capital of St. John, you can peek into local craft shops or explore a centuries-old British naval base in Nelson’s Dockyard. If beachcombing is more your speed, choose from any of Antigua’s 365 beaches. The island offers the best of both worlds, from bustling markets and candy-colored colonial buildings to winding rainforest trails and hidden coves.
In the capital of St. John, you can peek into local craft shops or explore a centuries-old British naval base in Nelson’s Dockyard. If beachcombing is more your speed, choose from any of Antigua’s 365 beaches. The island offers the best of both worlds, from bustling markets and candy-colored colonial buildings to winding rainforest trails and hidden coves.
in St. Johns
HUNT FOR HISTORY
Explore Betty’s Hope, two restored stone windmill towers that were once part of Antigua’s first major sugar plantation. The site dates back to the mid-1600s.
DISCOVER THE DOCKYARD
Once the base of the British Royal Navy, Nelson’s Dockyard is now the only working Georgian dockyard in the world. It’s home to several sailing and yachting events, and close to the historic Clarence House.
SOAK UP THE HEIGHTS
For some of the best views on the island, head to Shirley Heights— a restored military lookout nicknamed ‘The Lookout.’ It offers the best views of the Falmouth and English Harbors.
LOCAL CUISINE
In Antigua, British, Creole, and West Indian flavors come together to spice up local ingredients and fresh seafood. Must-try dishes include fungi— a cooked cornmeal paste similar to Italian polenta— and ducana dumplings made of sweet potato. If you wander the harbor front, you’ll find traditional English fish and chips paired with locally brewed Wadadli beer.
INSIDER TIP
Antigua is the sunniest of the Eastern Caribbean islands, so don’t forget your sunscreen. Do not wear camouflage clothing— it’s against the law in Antigua— and leave your beach attire for the beach.
Bridgetown, Barbados
BAJAN FLAVOR
As soon as you get into “Town”, make a stop at one of the island’s 1,500 rum shops. Then spend your day on the seemingly endless pink-and-white-sand beaches. For inland adventures, explore the rolling hills and valleys, sugarcane fields and historic plantations. Or take a dive into the crystal clear turquoise waters filled with captivating coral reefs.
As soon as you get into “Town”, make a stop at one of the island’s 1,500 rum shops. Then spend your day on the seemingly endless pink-and-white-sand beaches. For inland adventures, explore the rolling hills and valleys, sugarcane fields and historic plantations. Or take a dive into the crystal clear turquoise waters filled with captivating coral reefs.
in Bridgetown
BENEATH THE SURFACE
Take a solar-powered tram journey 170 feet below ground into Harrison’s Cave, an intricate limestone cave system. Here, you’ll find flowing streams, waterfalls, emerald-hued pools, unusual stalactite formations, and towering columns that formed over thousands of years.
GO GREEN
Hop into a rugged 4X4 and make your way through the Barbados Wildlife Reserve. Deep in the island’s interior, you’ll find playful green monkeys, colorful birds, reptiles and other native animals roaming freely. Try to visit around 2 p.m. for feeding time to see the green monkeys close-up.
BEST BEACH DAY EVER
Sit back and relax on the powdery white sands of Harbour Lights on Carlisle Bay Beach. If kicking back with a rum punch in hand is a little too laid-back, you can snorkel around shipwrecks, rent a jet ski, or even visit Tortuga to swim with turtles.
Local Cuisine
This island is a seafood lover’s dream come true. Bajan (or Barbadian) cuisine blends African, Indian and British influences. For a truly authentic experience, don’t shy away from the street food— try the fried fish cakes, macaroni pie, tamarind balls, and the national dish, cou-cou with flying fish.
Shopping
For the best deals on duty-free luxury items and authentic souvenirs from the island, check out the shops in the cruise terminal and the stores along Broad Street, the main street in Bridgetown. Cruise to Barbados and bring home a taste of the island with a rum cake, which is called ‘great cake’ for a reason.
INSIDER TIP
Ships dock at the Bridgetown Cruise Terminal, about a mile from town.
Castries, St. Lucia
PEAK ADVENTURE
Get to know St. Lucia— an eco-tourist’s utopia. You can trek the enormous rainforest to visit the towering, green-mantled twin peaks known as the Pitons. And be sure to soak in the natural wonders— whether it be the hot mineral pools or the sulphur springs that are heated by the dormant volcano of Soufriere.
Get to know St. Lucia— an eco-tourist’s utopia. You can trek the enormous rainforest to visit the towering, green-mantled twin peaks known as the Pitons. And be sure to soak in the natural wonders— whether it be the hot mineral pools or the sulphur springs that are heated by the dormant volcano of Soufriere.
in Castries
Play In The Mud
Melt away your cares in the town of Soufriere, home to Sulphur Springs, known for its medicinal waters since the 1600s. Soak in natural thermal pools at the bottom of the bubbling craters and zen out while indulging in a therapeutic mineral mud bath from head to toe.
Sky High Ride
See the rainforest and island vistas from a unique perspective— an open-air gondola that soars high through an ecological park in north St. Lucia. The aerial tram ride is the best way to get up close with towering gommier trees, strangler ficus plants, gigantic ferns and the many indigenous birds.
Serene Scene
Make your way to Marigot Bay— a gorgeous natural harbor straight out of a movie scene, dotted with restaurants, bars and shops. You can stroll the yacht marina, shop at boutiques, visit a French bakery or relax at the secluded beach, accessible by ferry.
Local Cuisine
The Creole cuisine shows off the local fish, fruits and vegetables. Traditional flavors are a unique blend of West African, British, French and East Indian influences. Don’t miss “coal pot,” a local staple where dishes are cooked in a clay basin over coals.
Shopping
The best duty-free shops are at Pointe Seraphine cruise terminal and across the harbor at La Place Carenage. Cruise to St. Lucia and find duty-free jewelry, watches, perfume, crystal, rum, and local crafts. An artisanal favorite to bring home from here is the traditional pottery, made from the clay of the Pitons.
INSIDER TIP
Don’t forget insect repellent if you plan to visit the rainforest.
CRUISING
FAVORITTER
TING Å GJØRE
A BOLDER BOULDER
Rise to the occasion and take on the signature Rock Climbing Wall. From beginners to speed climbers, everyone can enjoy an unparalleled view from 40 feet above deck. Included in your fare, no reservation required.
SWIM IT TO WIN IT
Soak up the sun or savor the shade on expanded pool decks, with complimentary loungers, live music, and the opportunity to enjoy a frosty cocktail.
Punta Cana, Dominican Republic
IT’S HOT
Punta Cana is one of the Caribbean’s top beach destinations— and for good reason. Relax by postcard-perfect waters in Playa Bavaro and find all-out adventure beyond the shore. Snorkel with stingrays, or reel in trophy-size catches on a marlin charter. Go on a 4X4 safari through sugarcane plantations. Ride horse-back on Uvero Alto’s sugary sands. Or enjoy a birds-eye view of it all from a helicopter.
Punta Cana is one of the Caribbean’s top beach destinations— and for good reason. Relax by postcard-perfect waters in Playa Bavaro and find all-out adventure beyond the shore. Snorkel with stingrays, or reel in trophy-size catches on a marlin charter. Go on a 4X4 safari through sugarcane plantations. Ride horse-back on Uvero Alto’s sugary sands. Or enjoy a birds-eye view of it all from a helicopter.
in Punta Cana
Close Encounters
Explore the tropical wilderness of the Indigenous Eyes Ecological Park and Reserve, by Segway or on foot. This 1,500-acre private protected forest is home to 12 freshwater swimming lagoons, cultural exhibits, a petting zoo, an iguana habitat, and native endangered animal species.
No Filter Needed
Get your camera ready to take the ultimate selfie atop Montaña Redonda, the best viewpoint on the island. The summit area not only offers 360-degree mountain and sea panoramas, but also has shops and a restaurant— local guides will even take you paragliding off the mountain, if you dare.
Hole In One
Tee off and play a round of golf— Punta Cana is known for the most scenic courses in the Caribbean. Many local greens, designed by the likes of acclaimed golf course architects Jack Nicklaus and Tom Fazio, are open to non-resort guests, with lessons and club rentals available during your Punta Cana cruise.
Local Cuisine
Lunch might entail Caribbean spiny lobster or hearty sancocho stew. If it’s snack time, try crunchy yaniqueques or sweet coconut memelos. Then for dinner indulge in the signature parrillada mixta (grilled seafood). Feeling thirsty? A Presidente lager or Mamajuana (herbs soaked in rum, red wine and honey) should do the trick.
Shopping
Be prepared to barter if shopping at kiosks along the beachfront resort area. In the bazaar-like Bi2JH2O Artisanal Shopping Plaza you’ll find paintings, wood carvings and coral jewelry. The Galerías at Puntacana Village is a popular outdoor retail spot, while the upscale Palma Real Shopping Village carries high-end international brands.
INSIDER TIP
Most restaurants add a 10% service charge to the check. It is customary to add 5-10% more for exceptional service.
San Juan, Puerto Rico
FOR ADVENTURE
The adventure doesn’t have to end once you get back to San Juan. Before you go, be sure to enjoy some homemade criolla cuisine in one of the many cafes you’ll find in Old San Juan. Then pick up some local crafts or duty-free luxury items in the nearby boutiques— there are plenty to choose from in the old city.
The adventure doesn’t have to end once you get back to San Juan. Before you go, be sure to enjoy some homemade criolla cuisine in one of the many cafes you’ll find in Old San Juan. Then pick up some local crafts or duty-free luxury items in the nearby boutiques— there are plenty to choose from in the old city.
in San Juan
CASTILLO DE SAN FELIPE DEL MORRO
Strong and beautiful, this fort has helped guard the shore for nearly five centuries while overlooking some of the island’s best scenery. Explore it via spiral staircases between levels, and grab a photo at one of the iconic garita sentry boxes that line the outer walls.
CATEDRAL DE SAN JUAN BAUTISTA
Founded in 1521, this can’t-miss landmark is one of the oldest churches in the Americas. It houses the tomb of Spanish explorer Ponce de Leon and the mummified remains of religious martyr St. Pio.
Shopping
During your San Juan cruise, head to the blue-hued cobblestone streets of Old San Juan for your pick of boutiques offering handmade lace and hand-rolled cigars, plus duty-free luxury items like diamonds, gemstones and watches.
© 2019 Royal Caribbean International
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INSIDER TIP