Southern Caribbean Cruise ÄVENTYRET BÖRJAR HÄR
San Juan , Puerto Rico | Punta Cana , Dominican Republic | Charlotte Amalie , St. Thomas | Fort De France , Martinique | Castries , St. Lucia | Bridgetown , Barbados | 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.
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.
Charlotte Amalie, St. Thomas
HARBOR OF CHARMS
St. Thomas offers all the action of a lively city and the allure of a secluded island getaway. Stroll through the colorful markets of Charlotte Amalie, or unwind on the sugary sand beach at Magen’s Bay. Whether you’re looking to turn up or tune out, you’ll feel a world away in this unique slice of paradise.
St. Thomas offers all the action of a lively city and the allure of a secluded island getaway. Stroll through the colorful markets of Charlotte Amalie, or unwind on the sugary sand beach at Magen’s Bay. Whether you’re looking to turn up or tune out, you’ll feel a world away in this unique slice of paradise.
in Charlotte Amalie
Beach Hop ‘Till You Drop
St. Thomas is home to some of the world’s most beautiful beaches. Ditch the crowds for some prime snorkeling at Sapphire Beach. And of course, no visit is complete without a stop at Magen’s Bay, named one of the world’s most beautiful beaches by National Geographic.
Panoramic Views of Paradise
St. Thomas’s central mountain range offers endless opportunities to snag the ultimate panoramic selfie. Head to Government Hill, Drake’s Seat on Skyline Drive, and Mountain Top, which rises over 1,500 feet above sea level for the most bragworthy views.
Journey Into the Past
Just off Main Street, visit the St. Thomas Synagogue and Frederick Lutheran Church, each the second oldest of its kind in the Western Hemisphere. Stop by Blackbeard’s Castle, built in 1679, and see the world’s largest collection of life-sized pirate statues. Or climb the legendary 99 Steps built by 18th century Danes, using bricks that once served as ship ballast.
Local Cuisine
St. Thomas is a foodie’s haven, and you’ll find no shortage of bars and pubs serving up local favorites like St. John Brewers Virgin Islands beer and Blackbeard Ale™. West Indian fare, like callaloo (sautéed leafy greens) and Johnnycakes (cornmeal flatbreads), is a staple. And you absolutely can’t leave without trying some chocolate dipped coconut patties. In restaurants and bars, you may wish to add a gratuity of 15-20% to your bill if service was especially good.
Fort De France, Martinique
SAY ‘OUI’ TO ADVENTURE
Known for its dramatic mountains and smoldering Mount Pelée volcano, Martinique’s landscape is unforgettable. Soak in the fast-paced vibe of cosmopolitan Fort-de-France while touring sites like Fort St. Louis and the Cathedrale St. Louis. Then slow things down outside of town with a snorkel session at Rocher du Diamant— from rainforest trails to stunning beaches, Martinique’s wild side offers it all.
Known for its dramatic mountains and smoldering Mount Pelée volcano, Martinique’s landscape is unforgettable. Soak in the fast-paced vibe of cosmopolitan Fort-de-France while touring sites like Fort St. Louis and the Cathedrale St. Louis. Then slow things down outside of town with a snorkel session at Rocher du Diamant— from rainforest trails to stunning beaches, Martinique’s wild side offers it all.
in Fort De France
Chateau Show
Located at the end of the Caravele Peninsula, the ruins of Chateau Dubuc date back to the 17th century. Legend has it the master of the estate once used lanterns to lure ships into wrecking off the coast so he could steal their loot.
Rum In The Sun
Explore Martinique’s former capital, St. Pierre, which was once called “the Paris of the Caribbean.” While you’re there, stop at a local rum distillery, like the Distilierie Depaz, for a sample.
Local Cuisine
Surrounded by both the Caribbean Sea and the Atlantic Ocean, Martinique's cuisine is an exotic mix of African, French and Creole influences. Try the popular accras de morue (fish fritters), Le matautou de crabe (stuffed crab) or le feroce d'avocat (spicy salt fish) in Fort-de-France's restaurants, situated mostly near the Porte d'Afrique.
Shopping
You'll sense the island's French flair and sophistication in shopping districts like Rue Victor Hugo, lined with boutiques carrying items from Paris and the French Riviera. And don't forget about Grand Marche in Fort-de-France, the sprawling bazaar featuring local herbs, spices and produce.
INSIDER TIP
If you're looking to get around easily, keep an eye out for minivans marked "TC" for "taxis collectifs" — these are taxis for hire.
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.
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.
KRYSSNING
FAVORITER DU INTE FÅR MISSA
SAKER ATT GÖRA
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.
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