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 British Virgin Islands, Tortola, is known for its shimmering beaches, oleander and hibiscus-covered mountainsides, and quaint towns tucked along coves – all of which are bouncing back after an active hurricane season in 2017. This early home to Blackbeard and Captain Kidd maintains its salty pirate legacy and rum-making traditions today. And adventure is a constant, whether you choose to wander the international capital city of Road Town or charter a boat in the sailing capital of the world. Get lost in melodic Bamboula drumming when you cruise to the Virgin Islands. Or hop on a ferry to discover the neighbouring islands of Virgin Gorda, Anegada or Jost Van Dyke.

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.

Greens in every shade spring from the rolling hills of St Kitts – an island ripe with eco-tourism adventures. In the port city of Basseterre, you’ll find centuries of history to explore in impressive estates and photo-worthy monuments like the Brimstone Hill Fortress, one of the most well-preserved military structures in the Americas. Cruise to St Cruise to St Kitts & Nevis and venture beyond the port and gear up for a unique climb up the 1,152-metre Mount Liamuiga volcano for views that are well worth the hike. Or hop in a kayak to get up close to a rainbow of tropical reef fish. Looking for something a little more laid back? Escape to the tiny unhurried sister island, Nevis, for smooth golden beaches and clear-water snorkelling – it’s just a thirty-minute ferry ride away.

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.

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.