Cruising is one of our favorite ways to travel! Luckily for us, we are based in Florida where we have 4 different cruise terminals to choose from (Miami, Tampa, Port Canaveral, and Jacksonville), with the closest one being less than 10 miles away from our house! Over the years we have become well-seasoned expert cruisers. Hell, we love cruising so much we’ve even talked about living on cruise ships when we retire!
What makes us cruise experts?
Believe it or not, my kids are fourth-generation cruisers! I’ve cruised with my kids, parents, and grandparents! If you include European River Cruises, they are fifth generation cruisers. So crazy, right?? Over the years, I have been on about 15 cruises- from the Eastern Caribbean to the Western Caribbean, down to the Southern Caribbean, and even up to Alaska! Our travels have taken us to over 20 different cruise ports and to allowed gain insight into the ins and outs of cruise travel- knowledge that we can’t wait to share with you!
Where have we cruised to?
We have sailed all throughout the Caribbean and have even been fortunate enough to sail to gorgeous Alaska. So far we have been to The Bahamas (Nassau, and Half Moon Cay), St. Thomas (USVI), Tortola (BVI), St. Maarten, Antigua, Grand Turk, Grand Cayman, Belize, Honduras, Mexico (Cozumel and Costa Maya), Dominican Republic, Aruba, and Bonaire. We are anxious to see all that the Caribbean islands have to offer!
What is the difference between the Eastern Caribbean and the Western Caribbean?
I often get asked which side of the Caribbean I like best- the Eastern or the Western. Both locations have their perks. The Eastern Caribbean has gorgeous beaches located on stunning hilly islands formed by ancient volcanoes. It is rich in pirate history and has excellent shopping. On the other hand, the Western Caribbean is full of adventure and Mayan culture.
Honestly, we love traveling to both. But, if we had to pick a favorite, we tend to favor all of the flairs the Western Caribbean has to offer. We enjoy visiting the historical Mayan Ruins, munching on delicious Mexican food, sampling tequila, and hitting the white sand beaches.
Check out our guide to the difference between the Eastern Caribbean, Western Caribbean, and Southern Caribbean.
Cruise Excursions
Excursions are activities that you can participate in on the mainland. They range from historical island tours, visits to Mayan ruins, snorkeling, animal encounters, and cultural events.
I’m telling you, excursions will make your trip totally unforgettable! We have done some amazing things on excursions including; swimming with stingrays, swimming with sharks, visiting Mayan ruins, horseback riding, and sailing on a catamaran. Most of my favorite memories from cruises have come from excursions.
We have tons of information on various Cruise Excursions to help you start planning out your adventure!
Helpful Information from Expert Cruisers
Before You Cruise
Packing
While You Cruise
