Southern Caribbean Cruise ADVENTURE STARTS HERE
Baltimore , Maryland | St Croix , U.S. Virgin Islands | Philipsburg , St. Maarten | Castries , St Lucia | Bridgetown , Barbados | Basseterre , St Kitts & Nevis | Baltimore , Maryland
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Baltimore, Maryland
EXPLORE BALTIMORE
Spend the morning walking around Baltimore’s Inner Harbour, where majestic tall ships reveal this East Coast city’s rich maritime legacy. And be sure to visit the star-shaped Fort McHenry, birthplace of America’s 'Star-Spangled Banner' anthem.
Spend the morning walking around Baltimore’s Inner Harbour, where majestic tall ships reveal this East Coast city’s rich maritime legacy. And be sure to visit the star-shaped Fort McHenry, birthplace of America’s 'Star-Spangled Banner' anthem.
in Baltimore
Nautical Ties
No visit to Baltimore is complete without exploring the historic Inner Harbour. Step aboard a collection of impressive ships – a Pearl Harbour-era cutter, a 1930s lightship, a sail-powered warship dating back to 1797. Then stroll around brick walkways flanked by chic boutiques, restaurants serving mid-Atlantic seafood and photo-worthy views of the water.
Star of the Show
Relive the Battle of Baltimore at Fort McHenry, where in 1814, by dawn’s early light, Francis Scott Key wrote the lyrics of The Star-Spangled Banner, the United States’ national anthem. Enter this star-shaped citadel to follow a period-costumed guide around the grounds, watch an educational film and see a replica of the 15-starred American flag.
Water Logged
Cruises from Baltimore facilitate encounters with almost 20,000 sea creatures spanning seven stories of interactive exhibits at the National Aquarium. Widely considered one of the best in America, this mind-boggling aquatic space includes a rooftop rainforest, multi-storey shark tank and reef recreations that are home to turtles, stingrays, bottlenose dolphins, sharks and more.
Local Cuisine
You can’t leave Baltimore without feasting on Chesapeake Bay blue crabs, which are steamed in Old Bay seasoning or served as golden brown cakes. Little Italy’s trattorias serve up pasta, tiramisu and cannoli – and National Bohemian Beer, lovingly nicknamed Natty Boh, is a local staple. Lexington Market is a foodie’s paradise where nearly 100 vendors shuck raw bar fare; you can also enjoy deli sandwiches and the famous Berger cookie.
Shopping
Satisfy all your souvenir needs and more at Harborplace, a festival marketplace during your Baltimore cruise. Mount Vernon’s Antique terraced houses: a string of retailers dating to the 1840s. The Hampden neighbourhood is known for its indie stores and vintage clothing outfitters – or browse Thames Street in Fells Point for vinyl records, books and trendy clothing.
INSIDER TIP
The Baltimore Water Taxi is the best way to explore the Inner Harbor. With 14 stops along the waterfront, boats arrive approximately every 15 minutes at the most popular attractions.
CRUISING
CAN'T-MISS FAVOURITES
THINGS TO DO
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 12 metres (40 feet) above deck. Included in your fare, no reservation required.
CHOP 'TIL YOU DROP
Watch seasoned chefs turn fresh ingredients into delectable appetisers, main dishes and desserts, as you get tips that will take your culinary pursuits to the next level.
CRUISING
FOR FOODIES
THINGS TO DO
A FAR EAST FEAST
Say “Konnichiwa” to a reimagined favorite. Sushi, sashimi and more, all made-to-order with intense flavors, the best ingredients and impeccable presentation.
A CUT ABOVE THE REST
For more than a decade, the chefs of Chops Grille have proudly presented quality, hand-cut prime steaks at this hallmark Royal Caribbean restaurant.
CRUISING
SHOW-STOPPERS
THINGS TO DO
BRUSH UP YOUR BOLEO
Slip into sultry rhythms and heart-racing beats as we touch down in Tango Buenos Aires and delve into the universal dance of love and passion.
ENTER STAGE RIGHT
Sing along to your favourite show tunes as the rhythm, rhyme, words and music of Broadway transport you to NYC.
St Croix, U.S. Virgin Islands
Garden of the antilles
The largest of the US Virgin Islands, St Croix has it all – gorgeous natural scenery and colonial towns perfect for wandering. Walk the cobbled streets of Frederiksted and Christiansted for a taste of Dutch Victorian architecture. Or roam the sprawling plantations and crumbling sugar mills dotting the countryside. And don’t miss the island’s white powder beaches, like Cane Bay and Rainbow Beach.
The largest of the US Virgin Islands, St Croix has it all – gorgeous natural scenery and colonial towns perfect for wandering. Walk the cobbled streets of Frederiksted and Christiansted for a taste of Dutch Victorian architecture. Or roam the sprawling plantations and crumbling sugar mills dotting the countryside. And don’t miss the island’s white powder beaches, like Cane Bay and Rainbow Beach.
in St. Croix
GET YOUR RUM ON
Taste your way through the history of rum on St Croix as you tour the Captain Morgan and Cruzan Rum distilleries, where you’ll learn about the process of making the Caribbean’s favourite spirit.
FORTIFIED FINDS
Check out the hard-to-miss yellow brick Fort Christiansvaern in Christiansted for a vivid history lesson – it’s the best preserved Danish-built fort in the Virgin Islands. You can also visit an art gallery and several historical exhibits in Frederiksted’s Fort Frederik.
A BETTER POINT OF VIEW
Point Udall is the easternmost point in the United States. It’s about a half-hour drive from Christiansted, but well worth the journey – once you arrive at the rocky bluff, you can wander up a paved road to the overlook for the best views on the island.
LOCAL CUISINE
St. Croix’s culinary scene is as diverse as its landscape. Stop in at any small local eatery and you’ll find fresh seafood dishes, like Cruzan Style Gundy (balls of ground herring and spices), that nod to French, Thai and Dutch cuisine— with plenty of West Indian spice and favorites like conch fritters. You’ll also find boardwalk bars serving traditional American fare, like hamburgers with rum punch.
SHOPPING
There’s no shortage of interesting dive shops in either Christiansted or Frederiksted. But the best places to shop in St. Croix are the duty-free shops offering jewelry, liquor, clothing and souvenirs.
INSIDER TIP
If you’re planning to go swimming, make sure you bring something to cover up with. Walking around town and entering shops wearing only a swimsuit is frowned upon.
Philipsburg, St. Maarten
Discover St. Maarten
St Maarten sits at the crossroads of the Caribbean and the Atlantic. It’s also a place where over 120 cultures meet. You can taste it in the island’s cuisine, which is rated amongst the best in the Caribbean. And you can feel it whether you stay in the upbeat, party-centric Dutch side where the port is located, or cross into the laid-back, local-driven French side of the island.
St Maarten sits at the crossroads of the Caribbean and the Atlantic. It’s also a place where over 120 cultures meet. You can taste it in the island’s cuisine, which is rated amongst the best in the Caribbean. And you can feel it whether you stay in the upbeat, party-centric Dutch side where the port is located, or cross into the laid-back, local-driven French side of the island.
in Philipsburg
LOTERIE FARM
Loterie Farm is a nature sanctuary with 135 acres of hiking trails, a zip line adventure course, and a spring fed multi-level pool with cascading waterfalls.
SIMPSON BAY LAGOON
The largest saltwater lagoon in the Caribbean, Simpson Bay is a great spot for lounging and watching the boats and yachts that dot its picturesque harbour.
MOUNT CONCORDIA
Hike to the top of Mount Concordia, which marks the border between the French and Dutch sides of the island, for the best views of both sides
Local Cuisine
This gourmet capital of the Caribbean serves a mix of French, East Indian and island flavours. Cruise to St Maarten and stop by a roadside barbecue stand (called a lolo) and enjoy lobster grilled on split-metal drums. Or dine on stuffed crab and cod fritters at any local café. Be sure to try some guavaberry liqueur, made exclusively on the island.
Shopping
Head to Front Street in Philipsburg, the capital of Dutch St Maarten, and shop your way down a mile of duty-free shops. Before you go, pick up some famous guavaberry liqueur at the Sint Maarten Guavaberry Company.
INSIDER TIP
A service charge is sometimes included at Dutch side restaurants, but you may wish to add 15% if the service was especially good.
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.
Coastal Cruising
See the famous Pitons and island vistas from the sea as you glide down the coast of St. Lucia on a coastal cruise. See the lush vegetation and fishing villages as you make your way to the Pitons.
Serene Scene
Make your way to Marigot Bay – a gorgeous natural harbour straight out of a film, 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 flavours 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 harbour at La Place Carenage. Cruise to St Lucia and find duty-free jewellery, watches, perfume, crystal, rum and local crafts. An artisanal favourite 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.
Bridgetown, Barbados
British history
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 52 metres 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, colourful birds, reptiles and other native animals roaming freely. Try to visit at 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 shops along Broad Street, the high 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.
Basseterre, St Kitts & Nevis
Coastal Views
Welcome to an island nation teeming with history and eco-tourism adventures. Explore colonial estates, monuments and fortresses in Basseterre. Gear up and climb Mount Liamuiga volcano or hop in a kayak to get up close to tropical reef fish. Or slow things down with a more laid-back escape to the tiny sister island of Nevis for a relaxing beach day.
Welcome to an island nation teeming with history and eco-tourism adventures. Explore colonial estates, monuments and fortresses in Basseterre. Gear up and climb Mount Liamuiga volcano or hop in a kayak to get up close to tropical reef fish. Or slow things down with a more laid-back escape to the tiny sister island of Nevis for a relaxing beach day.
in Basseterre
TAKE A HIKE
Hit the Mount Liamuiga trail and trek through towering trees, tangled vines and tropical flowers to the crater of the 1,155-metre dormant volcano. At the peak of your 6-mile ascent, you’ll be rewarded with a view that goes so far, you can see the neighbouring islands.
HIT THE STRIP
For a taste of nightlife while the sun is still shining, head to The Strip on South Frigate Bay. This hot spot along the beach is lined with resorts, restaurants and bars with open-air dance floors. Most places open at 10 a.m. and keep the island party vibes going until late at night.
ALL ABOARD
Hop on the West Indies’ last railway – double-decker trains that travel along a line built a century ago to transport sugarcane across the island. You’ll pass historical estates and countryside filled with tall, wild sugarcane.
Local Cuisine
Casual beach spots with super-fresh seafood are your best bet for lunch. Order some spiny lobster or conch grilled over an open fire. More adventurous eaters should try West Indian specialities like pepper pot, Arawak chicken and goat-water stew. For a quick snack, vendors sell sugarcane stalks to chew on.
Shopping
Port Zante has over 60 shops where you can find deals on watches, jewellery, diamonds and gemstones. Or you can head to the nearby Pelican Shopping Mall, a collection of souvenir shops designed to look like a traditional Caribbean street.
INSIDER TIP
Tipping taxi drivers isn’t necessary. In restaurants, 10-15% gratuity is standard.
CRUISING
LIGHTS OUT NIGHTS OUT
THINGS TO DO
SHAKING UP THE CLASSICS
Vintage glamour comes alive at R Bar – serving classic cocktails, such as gin martinis and the old fashioned, in a distinctly sophisticated setting.
SUN, SERENITY & SIPS
Does sitting in the whirlpool make you thirsty? Grab a drink at the nearby Solarium Bar.
CRUISING
CAN'T-MISS FAVOURITES
THINGS TO DO
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 12 metres (40 feet) above deck. Included in your fare, no reservation required.
CHOP 'TIL YOU DROP
Watch seasoned chefs turn fresh ingredients into delectable appetisers, main dishes and desserts, as you get tips that will take your culinary pursuits to the next level.
CRUISING
FOR FOODIES
THINGS TO DO
A FAR EAST FEAST
Say “Konnichiwa” to a reimagined favorite. Sushi, sashimi and more, all made-to-order with intense flavors, the best ingredients and impeccable presentation.
A CUT ABOVE THE REST
For more than a decade, the chefs of Chops Grille have proudly presented quality, hand-cut prime steaks at this hallmark Royal Caribbean restaurant.
Baltimore, Maryland
CHARM CITY ADVENTURE
Top off your East Coast adventure like a true Baltimorean. Crack into blue crabs at a seaside shack. Catch a Ravens football game or root on the Orioles at Camden Yards. Explore the city centre’s world-renowned museums and enjoy skyline views atop Federal Hill. Or raise a pint in an old-school Fells Point pub.
Top off your East Coast adventure like a true Baltimorean. Crack into blue crabs at a seaside shack. Catch a Ravens football game or root on the Orioles at Camden Yards. Explore the city centre’s world-renowned museums and enjoy skyline views atop Federal Hill. Or raise a pint in an old-school Fells Point pub.
in Baltimore
Nautical Ties
No visit to Baltimore is complete without exploring the historic Inner Harbour. Step aboard a collection of impressive ships – a Pearl Harbour-era cutter, a 1930s lightship, a sail-powered warship dating back to 1797. Then stroll around brick walkways flanked by chic boutiques, restaurants serving mid-Atlantic seafood and photo-worthy views of the water.
Star of the Show
Relive the Battle of Baltimore at Fort McHenry, where in 1814, by dawn’s early light, Francis Scott Key wrote the lyrics of The Star-Spangled Banner, the United States’ national anthem. Enter this star-shaped citadel to follow a period-costumed guide around the grounds, watch an educational film and see a replica of the 15-starred American flag.
Water Logged
Cruises from Baltimore facilitate encounters with almost 20,000 sea creatures spanning seven stories of interactive exhibits at the National Aquarium. Widely considered one of the best in America, this mind-boggling aquatic space includes a rooftop rainforest, multi-storey shark tank and reef recreations that are home to turtles, stingrays, bottlenose dolphins, sharks and more.
Local Cuisine
You can’t leave Baltimore without feasting on Chesapeake Bay blue crabs, which are steamed in Old Bay seasoning or served as golden brown cakes. Little Italy’s trattorias serve up pasta, tiramisu and cannoli – and National Bohemian Beer, lovingly nicknamed Natty Boh, is a local staple. Lexington Market is a foodie’s paradise where nearly 100 vendors shuck raw bar fare; you can also enjoy deli sandwiches and the famous Berger cookie.
Shopping
Satisfy all your souvenir needs and more at Harborplace, a festival marketplace during your Baltimore cruise. Mount Vernon’s Antique terraced houses: a string of retailers dating to the 1840s. The Hampden neighbourhood is known for its indie stores and vintage clothing outfitters – or browse Thames Street in Fells Point for vinyl records, books and trendy clothing.
INSIDER TIP
A 15% to 20% gratuity is customary in restaurants and bars. At the airport, tip skycaps at least $1 per bag.
© 2019 Royal Caribbean International
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INSIDER TIP