Discount Cruises to the Southern Caribbean

The southern Caribbean features multi-cultural and vastly different islands very close together, making for a rich cruise experience. Islands include Antigua, Aruba, Bonaire, Curacao, Dominica, Grenada, Guadeloupe, Martinique, St. Barthelemy, St. Kitts, and St. Lucia, as well as smaller islands that range from St. Vincent to the Iles des Saintes.

Here you will find some of the regions’ most unique and breathtaking landscapes. Islands vary widely in physical terrain, making for a range of port activities. Many have distinct European heritages that color their individual cultures – you will find elements of Holland, France, and Britain woven into the Caribbean spirit. Highlights of some of the ports-of-call you will discover:

ORANJESTAD, ARUBA
Aruba is well known for its beautiful weather and friendly people, its clear blue waters and open skies. It’s all true, plus there’s great duty free shopping, dining, and nightlife that will keep you on the move well after the sun goes down.

Spend the day at the beach! Gorgeous white sand beaches such as Eagle Beach and Palm Beach are minutes from town, and feature great activities like snorkeling and windsurfing. Take in a round of golf, or tour the amazing Butterfly Farm.

WILLEMSTAD, CURAÇAO
Willemstad, with its rich Dutch influence, is a delight for walking tours. The buildings are painted in bright colors and feature beautiful architectural details. There are sidewalk cafes, museums and shops in the Historic District, and many art galleries showcasing the thriving Curaçao art community. Don’t forget to sample genuine Curaçao liqueur!

You’ll find spectacular snorkeling in the coral reefs of Playa ‘Porto Mari’ , or visit Caracas Bay Island for a host of activities such as horseback riding, mountain biking, hiking, canoeing, or windsurfing. If golf is your passion, there is the 18 hole course at the Blue Bay Golf Resort.

For more info: www.curacao-tourism.com

ST. JOHN'S, ANTIGUA
Antigua (pronounced An-tee'ga) is located in the middle of the Leeward Islands, between St.Kitts and Montserrat. It’s capital is St.John’s, a vibrant place, rich in history set in a beautiful tropical landscape. Tour St.John’s Cathedral (built in 1845), or take a stroll and visit the many colorfully painted shops. There’s also Duty Free shopping in Heritage Quay.

Spend the day on the beach at Fort James, Dickenson Bay or Runaway Bay for boating, swimming, snorkeling, and other water sports or rent a jeep and check out Devil’s Bridge, a natural wonder formed by the Atlantic Ocean.

For more info: www.antigua-barbuda.org

BRIDGETOWN, BARBADOS

Once docked in Bridgetown Cruise Terminal, it’s a short walk to downtown. Check out the shops and handcraft souvenirs along Broad Street, with it’s London meets Caribbean vibe. There are plenty of bars and restaurants, serving caribbean delicacies and tropical drinks.

Head to one of the many beaches for sand, sun, and fun – there’s gently curving Brighton Beach, Payne Beach, with plenty of beachside cafes and bars and places to rent snorkeling gear or go parasailing.

For more info: www.barbados.org