Southern Caribbean Cruise 9 Nights • Miami, Florida • Freedom of the Seas

As far as vacation destinations go, Miami tops most sun-seekers’ lists. With its gorgeous beaches, vibrant neighborhoods and melting pot of cultures, the Magic City is the perfect place to spend a few days before you island hop on a three day cruise from Miami. Before you set sail, jump-start your morning in true Miami style with a Cuban cafecito from a ventanita — a streetside shop window. Then climb the historic lighthouse at Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park on quiet Key Biscayne before lounging on the island’s secluded sandy shores. If you’re looking for a bit more action, head to South Beach — home to world-class restaurants, nightlife, shopping and lively beaches, all set against snap-worthy Art Deco buildings. Art lovers who visit Miami can head to Wynwood and explore the neighborhood’s colorful street murals and local galleries. Or take a trip back in time at the Renaissance-style Vizcaya estate, which offers a glimpse into Miami’s dazzling past. From showstopping seven day cruises from Miami to last-minute weekend adventures, spending a day in South Florida is the perfect way to begin your adventure.

Your ship departs promptly at 4:30 pm, so plan to arrive at least 2-3 hours early to account for checking in and boarding protocols. During this time, many of the ship's amenities are open and operating, so feel free to start your holiday early.

The small island of Bonaire is just 50 miles off the coast of Venezuela and packs both idyllic weather conditions and a layered culture into 111 square miles in the Caribbean Sea. As part of the Dutch ABC islands (which also includes Aruba and Curaçao), a trip to Kralendijk will uncover the influences of the Dutch as well as French, Spanish, African, Amerindian, Portuguese and British. Among the things to do in Kralendijk, observe this unique blend of cultures as you shop the local craft market, dine on fresh seafood or take in a museum. A drive through the island reveals the technicolor nature of pink lakes, while snorkeling or diving gives way to unspoiled underwater reefs.

Oranjestad is best known for its colorful Dutch Colonial ‘gingerbread’ houses painted in bright Caribbean hues, powdery white beaches and crystal-clear aquamarine water. Explore Aruba’s unique geological formations amid desert-like landscapes. Or discover aquatic wonders under the waves on a snorkeling excursion or a thrilling submarine ride. Sun-seekers can choose the beach that best suits their style, from the activity-filled De Palm Island to resort-studded Palm Beach, one of the island’s most glorious stretches of sand.

Discover the colonial-era fortresses and other landmarks of Willemstad on a trolley ride before exploring more on your own. Go on a distillery tour to sample the island’s signature spirit, Blue Curaçao, or make some new marine friends at the Sea Aquarium. Enjoy the island’s stunning turquoise seas on a boat, snorkeling or just relaxing on the sands.

Cruises to Cabo Rojo, Dominican Republic are your gateway to the perfect beach day. This secluded hideaway located in the southwestern corner of the island beckons with quiet, captivating shores dotted with swaying palm trees and surrounded by lush rainforests and mangroves. Top-rated beaches include Playa Pedernales, Playa Salinas and Playa Cabo Rojo. Each is characterized by calm, crystal-clear waters, sugary-white sand and coral reefs teeming with marine life. If you crave a more active outdoor adventure, you can venture into the area’s massive Jaragua National Park, home to caves with ancient rock art, placid lagoons and dense tropical forests.

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 Royal Beach Club℠ Paradise Island with all-inclusive access to some of the best food, cocktails, beaches and pools in The Bahamas.

Head west of the city for a bike ride past alligators on the Everglades’ Shark Valley route. Take the kids to the Miami Children’s Museum, or paddle a kayak through Biscayne Bay. Come evening, indulge in haute cuisine at a swanky beachside restaurant— all before cocktails and dancing amid The Magic City’s trendy nightlife scene.

The cruise might have ended, but there are still some great activities to enjoy in the area. If you flew into this port, be mindful of your departure flight time and plan accordingly.