The best Caribbean cruise destinations are better experienced together.

Table of contents

Best Caribbean destinations in the Eastern region: St. Maarten
Best Caribbean destinations in the Western region: Cozumel
Best Caribbean destinations in the Southern region: St. Lucia
Best Caribbean destinations for families: St. Thomas and Falmouth
Best Caribbean cruise destination for couples: Aruba
The best month to go on a Caribbean cruise
Sail the Caribbean with Princess

The best Caribbean cruise destinations span from the ancient ruins of the Western Caribbean to the tropical shores of the Eastern Caribbean. Between cultural exploration and total relaxation, the Caribbean offers something for every traveler, from history-lovers and adventure-seekers to those who simply want to unwind. Whether you're taking in the breathtaking views of turquoise waters or immersing yourself in local culture, Princess Cruises makes it easy to explore the best of the Caribbean. Let our five best Caribbean destinations inspire your next cruise vacation.

The Eastern Caribbean is the epitome of paradise. Crystalline waters and white-sand shores gleam against bright blue skies and promising sunshine. St. Maarten, one of the most popular Eastern Caribbean destinations, embodies the laid-back atmosphere and feel-good rhythm that every cruise passenger dreams of. Spend the day relaxing on Orient Beach or Little Bay Beach — a coconut tree-lined beach that lives up to its name — known to be one of the best Caribbean destinations around. Or, board a catamaran and take off on a scenic coastal cruise. Revel in unobstructed views of the colorful shoreline, then explore below the surface and watch as schools of rainbow fish whirl past.

End your day at Maho Beach, one of the island’s most famous attractions, where airplanes pass dramatically low overhead as they land at the nearby airport. For an even more breathtaking view, take a hike up Pic Paradis, the highest point on the island, for sweeping panoramas of the Caribbean Sea. Whether you're relaxing on the beach or exploring the island’s dual cultures, St. Maarten is a destination that offers something for everyone on an Eastern Caribbean cruise. 

Get a taste of tradition and culture when you travel to the best of Western Caribbean cruise destinations. One of the most popular is the Western Caribbean icon, the island of Cozumel. While in Cozumel, start your day by exploring Tulum’s ancient Mayan ruins in the morning, or view a Mexican cultural show in the afternoon. Or learn about the region’s rich history through chocolate, using unique ingredients like chili and honey to bring the flavors to life. 

Cozumel also offers incredible opportunities for outdoor adventure and relaxation. Snorkel or dive into the island’s crystal-clear waters, with spectacular views of vibrant coral reefs and marine life. Or, take the day to stroll through San Miguel, Cozumel’s lively downtown area. Here, you can shop for locally made crafts, sample authentic Mexican Caribbean dishes and soak in the island’s warm, welcoming atmosphere. 

Explore more of the delights of the Western Caribbean in Roatan, Honduras, where the Garifuna tribe has laid claim to the land for over 200 years. Meet local tribe members, partake in a traditional dance and let the tempo of the music wash over you. The Western Caribbean is filled with cultural treasures, inviting you to uncover history and tradition at every cruise stop.

Teeming with sea gardens, coral reefs and vibrant marine life, the Southern Caribbean is home to a world of underwater adventures. On your cruise vacation, visit St. Lucia, a destination with waters home to as many treasures as its sugar-bearing soil. Jump into the Caribbean Sea of Pigeon Island, where sponge-like coral and fish await you. Float past groups of parrotfish, flounder, arrow crabs and octopus, which are known to grow tentacles several feet in length. For another look at St. Lucia’s aquatic landscape, head to the vibrant waters of Marigot Bay, one of the island’s hidden gems. Known for its calm, sheltered waters and lush surroundings, this serene spot offers a perfect setting for kayaking or paddleboarding. You can also take a boat tour to explore the nearby coves and lagoons, offering unparalleled views of the island's natural beauty. 

If you prefer to stay on land, visit the Diamond Falls Botanical Gardens, where colorful tropical flowers bloom year-round, and the cascading waterfall adds a magical touch to your experience. Don’t miss a chance to visit the world’s only drive-in volcano, or take a dip in the therapeutic hot springs nearby. End your day wandering through the countryside’s spectacular views of banana plantations and tropical landscapes.  Between the aquatic gardens and thriving cultures, St. Lucia is one of the best Caribbean cruise destinations in the South — especially for those interested in exploration both on and off shore.

Whether taking advantage of summer break or avoiding the winter snow, families can visit the top Caribbean cruise destinations all year long. Cruise to St. Thomas, where a quick ferry ride brings you to the shores of Trunk Bay in St. John — named one of the 7 Cruise Wonders of the World. Trunk Bay is known for its soft white sand, and it offers an underwater snorkeling trail with interpretive signs that guide you past coral reefs full of marine life. It’s an easy way for families to dive into the Caribbean’s natural beauty together.

For families traveling with teens, head to Falmouth to spice things up. Taste local dishes like jerk chicken from Scotchie’s Jamaican Jerk and savory pasta from Evita’s Italian Restaurant. This “foodie” tour will do more than just satisfy your hunger — it will also fill you up with an appreciation for Jamaican heritage. From the thrilling East to the cultural West, our expert-crafted itineraries include the best Caribbean cruise routes for every family.

For couples seeking a romantic escape, Aruba offers the perfect blend of vibrant culture and intimate experiences. This Southern Caribbean gem sets the scene for unforgettable moments with its sun-kissed beaches. Stroll hand-in-hand along Eagle Beach (one of the most popular shorelines in the world), where calm waters and fofoti trees create the ultimate setting for a beach day built for two. For something more adventurous, set sail on a private catamaran and snorkel together in the clear shallows of Catalina Bay or the Antilla shipwreck. With the Catamaran Snorkel & Beach Getaway from Princess, the snorkeling gear is provided and you’ll get instructions from the experts. All you need to worry about is enjoying a day in the sun with your partner — and maybe capturing some epic pictures to share online.

Seasons don’t exist on these tropical islands. Even the light rain that falls sporadically in certain months offers visitors a refreshing complement to days with abundant sunshine. This means that the best time to visit the Caribbean is during the month that is most convenient for you. Leave the fall breeze behind and revel in the sunshine. Bypass the winter storms while lying on sandy beaches. Embark on the ultimate spring break with a 7-day Caribbean cruise, or treat yourself to a summer trip worth writing home about. When you sail with Princess®, your quintessential vacation is at your fingertips every month of the year.

Experience the best Caribbean cruise destinations with Princess Cruises. Enjoy hassle-free planning, luxurious onboard amenities and exclusive excursions to top destinations. From tropical beaches to cultural treasures, our itineraries are designed to offer relaxation, adventure and unforgettable memories. Let Princess make your next Caribbean cruise effortless and extraordinary.