Southern Caribbean

Puerto Rico’s 500-year-old capital is a history buff’s dream come true. The Spanish settled this harbour as a New World home base, and that influence is still evident, from the fortress walls lining the coastline to the rainbow of colonial buildings along narrow streets. Venture further out from the old town and nature unfolds. You can scale high into the jungled mountains of El Yunque Forest, or keep to the foothills on a riverside horse ride. If despacito is more your speed, pick a pristine beach and recline with a cod fritter and rum drink in hand. San Juan cruises give you the perfect outpost to dial up or dial down your holiday.

The largest of the US Virgin Islands, St Croix has it all – gorgeous natural scenery begging to be explored, and quaint colonial towns perfect for wandering. It used to be nicknamed the ‘Garden of the Antilles’ because of its lush fields of sugarcane – and its sugar mills dating back to the 18th century are still popular spots. But these days, it’s world-class dive sites like Salt River Canyon, powdery beaches like Cane Bay, and rainforests teeming with tropical wildlife that keep people coming back. Plus, award-winning rum of course. Cruise to St Croix and discover plenty of Victorian Dutch architecture and charming colonial churches in Frederiksted and Christiansted.

What makes St Maarten so unique is its blend of cultures. The island is home to 120 different nationalities speaking over 80 languages, and is governed by two countries: the Netherlands and France. In fact, it’s the smallest land mass in the world to be shared by two different nations. While it may be less than 40 square miles, there’s plenty to do on this little island: you can travel back in time while exploring centuries-old ruins and get your adrenaline fix zip lining through lush tropical forests. If you’re after a little rest and relaxation during your cruise to St Maarten, you’ll find plenty of secluded beaches where you can work on your suntan before treating your taste buds to some of the best cuisine in the Caribbean.

Antigua has a beach for every day of the year – literally. But the island experience goes beyond 365 distinct ribbons of white sand and clear waters. In the capital city of St John’s, you’ll discover charming candy-coloured architecture, lively markets and a beautiful baroque cathedral. And smiling locals greet you everywhere you go. On the southern coast, you can explore Nelson’s Dockyard, a centuries-old British naval base built by Admiral Horatio Nelson. Past Antigua’s yacht-studded coastline, you’ll find upmarket boutiques, wild forest trails, hidden coves and coral reefs bustling with tropical fish. But the best way to really see the island is from up above, so cruise to Antigua and hop into a helicopter for a panoramic look at lush jungles, golden beaches and the nearby volcanic island, Montserrat.

From dramatic landscapes moulded by ancient volcanoes to sparkling palm-fringed beaches, St Lucia offers some amazing Caribbean eye candy. Luxury resorts nestle up to the natural beauty, giving this island just the right touch of exclusivity. Cruise to St Lucia and explore the coast by catamaran. Hike to the peaks of the soaring twin Pitons. Tour rainforests and explore the fishing villages of Anse-La-Raye. Or take a relaxing dip in warm mineral pools heated by the dormant volcano of Soufriere. In the capital of Castries, you’ll find touches of French and British heritage, from the architecture to the cuisine.

You’ll find that Bridgetown strikes a fine mix of island warmth and English heritage. Stately colonial buildings intermingle with colourful wooden homes, open-air markets and catch-of-the-day cafés. Outside of the bustle of ‘Town’, as the locals call it, Barbados is a new kind of paradise in every direction. Cruise to Barbados and head towards the shore for pink-and-white-sand beaches that stretch on endlessly and crystal-clear turquoise waters. Or stick to the centre of the island: you’ll find rolling hills and valleys, sugarcane fields and historic plantations. You can even travel underground to discover limestone caves with their own waterfalls.

Puerto Rico’s 500-year-old capital is a history buff’s dream come true. The Spanish settled this harbour as a New World home base, and that influence is still evident, from the fortress walls lining the coastline to the rainbow of colonial buildings along narrow streets. Venture further out from the old town and nature unfolds. You can scale high into the jungled mountains of El Yunque Forest, or keep to the foothills on a riverside horse ride. If despacito is more your speed, pick a pristine beach and recline with a cod fritter and rum drink in hand. San Juan cruises give you the perfect outpost to dial up or dial down your holiday.