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Best Cruises to the Caribbean

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Celebrity Apex

The Celebrity Apex – which made its inaugural sailing in June 2021 – can hold up to 2,910 passengers at double occupancy, 3,385 at maximum occupancy and 1,320 crew members. Guests can wine and dine at 29 restaurants, bars and lounges, then spend the night testing their luck at the casino or enjoying live music at the Magic Carpet (which offers great ocean views). Specialty restaurants include a steakhouse and a raw bar, while main dining options feature Mediterranean, Italian and French cuisines. There are also meeting spaces and multipurpose areas on board, as well as upscale shops.

Visit the spa or adults-only Solarium pool to stay relaxed throughout your stay at sea. For younger travelers, there are some kid-friendly areas of the ship – such as a Camp at Sea. However, the ship is geared more toward adult clientele (or families with older children) looking for a relaxing escape.

The ship's staterooms, which start at 181 square feet, offer smart TVs, customizable air conditioning and plenty of storage space. Many rooms also offer private verandas. If you're willing to splurge, consider booking a room in The Retreat. This exclusive section of the ship features luxury accommodations as well as access to a private restaurant, sun deck and lounge. Plus, rooms in The Retreat offer more space, measuring up to 1,892 square feet.

The Celebrity Apex sails to European destinations like Italy, Croatia and Portugal, as well as to Caribbean hot spots like St. Thomas , Puerto Rico , Belize and Grand Cayman .

Celebrity Beyond

Launched in April 2022, Celebrity Beyond is the third ship in the cruise line's Edge Series, capable of holding up to 3,260 passengers and over 1,400 crew members. On board, guests have their pick of 32 food and beverage venues serving everything from Greek to French to Italian cuisine; there are also several cocktail bars and lounges where guests can grab a drink.

One of the highlights of Celebrity Beyond is its 4,500-piece art collection, which includes works by travel photographers and international artists. There is also no shortage of unique entertainment options; these range from acrobatic shows to juggling mixologist performances. To enjoy stunning water views, enjoy Celebrity's "Magic Carpet," a large platform that hangs off the edge of the ship and moves from deck to deck.

Staterooms offer amenities like plush bathrobes, comfortable Cashmere mattresses and flat-screen TVs; many also come with private verandas. For a one-of-a-kind experience, splurge on a room in The Retreat. This resort-within-a-resort features villas and suites with added luxuries like plunge pools, hot tubs and butlers. Plus, guests of The Retreat have exclusive access to a private sundeck, restaurant and lounge, along with an onboard credit that can be used however you see fit.

Celebrity Beyond sails to a variety of popular Mediterranean and Caribbean destinations, including Italy, Mexico and more.

U.S. News Insider Tip: On Celebrity Beyond, if you're lucky, your drink might be poured by Captain Kate McCue herself during the nightly flair bartender show at the Grand Plaza Martini Bar. Make sure to follow her behind-the-scenes adventures on Instagram. – Skye Sherman, Contributor

Debuted in October 2021, Rotterdam welcomes up to 2,668 guests at double occupancy, 3,172 guests at maximum capacity and 1.048 crew members. The name hearkens back to the line's founding in the late 19th century, when its first ship, Rotterdam, sailed from the Netherlands to New York. Though the ship's name is rooted in the cruise line's past, its amenities are anything but antiquated.

Among Rotterdam's standout facilities is World Stage, a performance venue that features a two-story, 270-degree wraparound LED screen that creates a panorama of light and sound for audience members. For more entertainment, passengers can catch a performance at any of the ship's numerous music venues, including the Rolling Stone Rock Room and B.B. King's Blues Club.

When travelers aren't grooving to live tunes, they can test their luck at the onboard casino or relax at the spa. Meanwhile, kids can play the day away at the Kids Club. Foodies will be pleased to hear the ship offers eight dining options, including Rudi's Sel de Mer, a French brasserie, and Tamarind, which highlights the culinary traditions of Southeast Asia, China and Japan.

Cabins range in size from 143 square feet to 1,290 square feet, with some of the luxury suites boasting floor-to-ceiling windows, whirlpool baths and verandas with hot tubs.

Sailings aboard Rotterdam depart from ports like Fort Lauderdale, Florida , and Amsterdam to destinations in the Caribbean, Europe and the Panama Canal.

U.S. News Insider Tip: The art collection aboard Rotterdam is valued at more than $4.1 million and has 2,645 pieces of diverse works ranging in value from $500 to $620,000. Take some time to walk around the ship to explore the collections. Each of the three stairwells has a theme that reaches from top to bottom: architecture, music or zoology. – Jill Schildhouse, Contributor

Celebrity Ascent

Celebrity Ascent is the fourth ship of Celebrity Cruises' Edge series; it makes its maiden voyage in November 2023. The 3,260-passenger, 1,400-crew member boat features an outward-facing design that emphasizes ocean views and outdoor public spaces.

The ship features a wide array of cabin options, ranging from 181 to 1,892 square feet. Edge Single staterooms with Infinite Verandas are perfect for solo travelers, while wellness-focused AquaClass staterooms may appeal to cruisers looking for some extra rest and relaxation. Suites in The Retreat add numerous perks, including more spacious accommodations; a private dining option at Luminae at The Retreat (with a menu created by a Michelin-starred chef); an exclusive lounge and a sun deck.

Cruisers have over 30 restaurants, bars and lounges to choose from while on board. Dine on globally inspired fare at Le Voyage by Daniel Boulud, enjoy a 3D animation dining experience at Le Petit Chef or sample from Eden Restaurant's plant-based menu.

There are plenty of activities on this ship, as well. Take a walk and observe sculptures at the Rooftop Garden, enjoy ocean views from The Magic Carpet – a movable deck that can raise cruisers up to 13 stories above sea level – or spend the day at the adults-only Solarium. At night, catch one of the three new shows at The Theatre, play games at the casino or enjoy live entertainment at The Club.

Celebrity Ascent sails to ports in the Caribbean and the Mediterranean.

U.S. News Insider Tip : Don't miss the Sunset Bar at the back of the ship. This is a great spot for relaxing in the afternoon, taking in an almost 360-degree view of the ocean and enjoying cool beach club vibes. The bar was designed by celebrity designer Nate Berkus. — Megan duBois, Contributor

Want to learn more about Celebrity Ascent? Check out our firsthand review of the ship's best dining, amenities and more »

Icon of the Seas

Icon of the Seas debuted in January 2024 as the largest cruise ship in the world. Royal Caribbean International went all out with this ship: It boasts the largest water park at sea (equipped with the tallest drop slide and first family raft slides on a cruise ship) and the first suspended infinity pool on a cruise vessel. Indoors, guests love the Aqua Theater, the ice skating rink and the escape room.

The massive 20-deck ship is broken up into eight neighborhoods. The ship's 2,805 staterooms include balcony, ocean view and inside cabins, as well as suites. The three-story, eight-guest Ultimate Family Townhouse – with its private balcony whirlpool, slide and in-suite cinema – is a headline-maker.

While there are adult-focused havens around the ship, Icon of the Seas is practically Disney World for young families, especially in the kid-focused Surfside neighborhood. Meanwhile, strolling the Royal Promenade feels like the Las Vegas Strip , and live music spills from many venues.

Thirteen of the ship's dining venues are included in the base cruise fare, while 14 are specialty restaurants that cost extra. Cuisines across the dining outlets run the gamut from steaks to crepes to sushi. There are 18 bars and lounges.

This ship's capacity maxes out at 7,600 passengers and 2,350 crew members. It appeals to those looking for nonstop fun, but it may be overwhelming for cruisers who are used to more boutique or personalized experiences.

Icon of the Seas sails from Miami on Caribbean itineraries.

U.S. News Insider Tip: Reservations at specialty restaurants can be hard to come by, unless you're happy to eat very early or late. The same goes for excursions, shows, spa services and other activities. If there are experiences you definitely don't want to miss, reserve them in advance on the Royal Caribbean app. You can use it to make reservations for shore excursions, dining and select activities and shows up to two days before you set sail. – Skye Sherman, Contributor

Want to learn more about Icon of the Seas? Check out our firsthand review of the ship's best dining, amenities and more »

Utopia of the Seas

Utopia of the Seas is an Oasis-class ship that can carry 5,668 guests at double occupancy and 2,290 crew. It features 18 total decks (16 of which are for passengers) packed with activities and amenities. The ship launched in July 2024 and sails from Port Canaveral, Florida.

Travelers looking for action will find a surf simulator, an indoor ice skating rink, two rock climbing walls, a zip line, multiple waterslides and the tallest dry slide at sea. Meanwhile, relaxation seekers can find some peace and quiet in the spa, sip a glass of wine or cup of coffee in the Central Park-inspired neighborhood, or unwind in a whirlpool in the Solarium.

A foodie paradise, Utopia offers nearly 40 venues to eat and drink, from bars and lounges to grab-and-go restaurants and fine dining restaurants. The Main Dining Room is where the ship's traditional, complimentary dinners are provided nightly, but specialty options like a Japanese steakhouse, a bistro and a Johnny Rockets are also available. The most talked-about dining attraction is a multicourse dinner aboard the Royal Railway, a first-of-its-kind interactive "train ride" experience.

Guests can choose from a variety of cabin types, including 150- to 270-square-foot Interior staterooms or 181- to 304-square-foot Balcony cabins overlooking the ocean, Central Park or the Boardwalk. Select Royal Suites also feature multiple bedrooms, whirlpool tubs and a multilevel slide.

Utopia of the Seas sails three- and four-night itineraries around the Caribbean and Bahamas, almost always stopping at Royal Caribbean's private island , Perfect Day at CocoCay.

US News Insider Tip: Utopia of the Seas is Royal Caribbean's only ship to feature an immersive dinner on a "moving train." The Royal Railway is a family-friendly journey through the Old West with live theatrical performances and multisensory experiences. – Jill Schildhouse, Contributor

Want to learn more about Utopia of the Seas? Check out our firsthand review of the ship's best dining, amenities and more »

Odyssey of the Seas

Launched in July 2021, Odyssey of the Seas holds 4,198 guests at double occupancy, 5,498 passengers maximum and 1,612 crew members. Odyssey of the Seas offers standout amenities like RipCord by iFLY (an exclusive skydiving simulator available on just five Royal Caribbean ships) and the FlowRider, a 40-foot-long surf simulator. There is also the North Star observation capsule, which hoists guests 300 feet above sea level over the cruise ship to enjoy unparalleled views below.

In addition to these thrilling activities, the ship comes equipped with standard facilities like pools, an arcade, a spa, a fitness center with classes, kids clubs and shopping venues. There are 15 dining options, ranging from Japanese fare to all-you-can-eat buffets to Starbucks. For drinks, the ship offers six bars and lounges, giving passengers plenty of places to enjoy libations. Entertainment options include theatrical performances, live music, a casino, outdoor movie nights and more.

As far as cabins go, cruisers can choose between Interior, Ocean View, and Balcony staterooms, as well as suite accommodations and new Virtual Balcony rooms. These technologically advanced cabins feature floor-to-ceiling displays that project real-time views of the sights and sounds from the outside of the ship.

Odyssey of the Seas sails to ports in Europe, the Caribbean and the Bahamas. It also completes trans-Atlantic voyages.

U.S. News Insider Tip: Coconut ranger cookies are Royal Caribbean's signature cookie, baked fresh on board every day, so make sure to try one when you see them (and grab a couple extra to keep in your cabin as a late-night snack). For an extra-indulgent treat, make an ice cream sandwich with soft-serve from the machine. If you fall in love, don't worry; Royal Caribbean has publicly shared the recipe so you can recreate them at home. – Skye Sherman, Contributor

Silver Moon

Cruisers seeking an intimate experience should consider booking a trip aboard Silversea's Silver Moon. Debuted in June 2021, Silver Moon accommodates just 596 passengers at double occupancy. And with 411 crew members, travelers can expect an attentive experience.

One standout amenity is the Sea And Land Taste (S.A.L.T.) program. The dining experience aims to introduce passengers to their destinations through food. On board, the S.A.L.T. Lab offers travelers the chance to participate in tastings and workshops, while the S.A.L.T. Kitchen provides a unique dining experience. On shore, foodies can book special cuisine-focused excursions through the program. Not an adventurous eater? Not to worry. Silver Moon boasts seven additional eateries serving everything from pizza to tapas to grilled meat and fish.

Following a delicious meal, travelers will have access to a wealth of amenities, including the spa, a pool, several whirlpools, lounges and a fitness center. When evening rolls around, cruisers can press their luck at the casino or catch a live show.

As with other Silversea ships, Silver Moon boasts all-suite accommodations, ranging in size from 334 to 1,970 square feet. Each suite boasts butler service, marble bathrooms, free Wi-Fi access, flat-screen TVs, minibars and large windows. Plus, you'll get a welcome bottle of Champagne. Upgraded staterooms may include multiple bedrooms, sitting areas and bathrooms; espresso machines; daily canapes and private balconies.

Silver Moon is set to explore a variety of regions, including Europe, the Caribbean, Central America, Alaska, French Polynesia and more.

Disney Magic

The 2,713-passenger Disney Magic is the oldest ship in the Disney Cruise Line fleet (it first launched in 1998). It was last refurbished in May 2023, when it received updates like a "Soul"-themed lounge, concierge-level upgrades and a new Twice Charmed: An Original Twist on the Cinderella Stor y live show. The ship also features family favorites such as the AquaDuck waterslide, the Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique dress-up shop and Edge, an interactive game center for tweens.

Disney Magic features diverse entertainment, including live shows, an open-air Wide World of Sports deck, three pools and a splash area for children younger than 3. Tweens and teens can enjoy games, music and theme nights at Edge (ages 11 to 14) or Vibe (ages 14 to 17). When it comes to dining, the ship offers seven eateries, including an adults-only specialty restaurant and buffet options. Recent cruisers gave the food quality mixed reviews.

In terms of lodging, 70% of cabins offer ocean views or verandas. All cabins are outfitted with flat-screen TVs, sitting areas and bathrooms with separate showers and tubs. Suites include extra perks such as concierge service and media libraries. Past cruisers noted that the service on this ship is up to Disney's standards, but so is the price tag.

Disney Magic sails from Galveston, Texas ; Fort Lauderdale, Florida ; Port Canaveral, Florida; and San Juan, Puerto Rico . It visits destinations across the Bahamas , the Caribbean and Mexico.

U.S. News Insider Tip : Once per sailing, guests are invited to watch Tangled: The Musical in the Walt Disney Theater. This Broadway-style show retells the story of Rapunzel and Flynn Rider with three new original songs, puppets, and beautiful costumes. This show is very popular, so it's best to get to the theater about an hour before the show starts to get a good seat. Doors open 30 minutes prior to showtime. – Megan duBois, Contributor

Celebrity Silhouette

Introduced in 2011 and fully refurbished in February 2020, Celebrity Silhouette is one of the largest ships in the fleet and features a nearly 1-to-3 crew-to-guest ratio. Its latest renovation reimagined the lounges across the ships, updated the staterooms and added new boutiques and spa treatment rooms. The ship holds 2,902 passengers at double occupancy, 3,324 passengers at maximum occupancy and 1,285 crew members.

Silhouette offers plenty of onboard activities, from enrichment seminars to comedy shows. While kids can play on video game consoles or at the sports courts, adults can sip libations at the Passport Bar and Craft Social.

As far as dining goes, the ship is home to 12 restaurants and cafes, half of which are specialty venues that require reservations and extra fees. Cuisine ranges from casual bites at the pool grill to sushi and Italian fare.

Along with a variety of food options, Celebrity Silhouette offers a range of stateroom selections, with 85% of its cabins offering verandas. Cruisers can choose from Inside, Ocean View and Veranda rooms, while those who opt for one of seven Suite categories receive more space and perks like butler service and priority check-in.

Celebrity Silhouette sails to destinations in Canada, New England, the Caribbean and Europe.

Disclaimers about ship ratings: A ship’s Health Rating is based on vessel inspection scores published by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). If a ship did not receive a CDC score within 22 months prior to the calculation of its Overall Rating, its Health Rating appears as N/A; in such a case, the ship’s Overall Rating is calculated using the average Health Rating of all CDC-rated ships within the cruise line. All ship Traveler Ratings are based on ratings provided under license by Cruiseline.com.

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The best Caribbean cruise for every type of traveler

There is no shortage of choices for a cruise to the Caribbean — the most popular place in the world for cruising. More than 200 cruise ships spend at least part of every year in the region. Cruise-selling websites list thousands of individual Caribbean sailings.

This can be great news for would-be Caribbean cruisers, but it also can be overwhelming. With so many options, where do you even begin? Which one of these ships and sailings is the best?

We get the latter question a lot — and we always answer the same noncommittal way: It depends. The best ship and sailing in the Caribbean for whom? The best for us? The best for you? The best for your kids?

When picking the best cruise in the Caribbean, as with choosing the best cruise anywhere, a lot comes down to tastes and preferences. Some people love the big-resort feel of the biggest-of-big ships . Others are horrified by the very idea of them. Some people demand (and are willing to pay for) the highest levels of luxury . Others are on tight budgets. The best cruise for a family with kids isn't necessarily the same as the best cruise for a couple looking for romance.

What kind of cruiser are you? It's important to think that through before narrowing down your choices.

The bottom line is that the best Caribbean cruise for you depends a lot on your travel style. Below, we'll help you narrow the choices by looking at Caribbean cruises by broad category type. The good news is that in the Caribbean, at least, there really is something for everyone.

Best Caribbean cruise for megaresort fans: Royal Caribbean

If your idea of a great vacation is a week at a big, bustling resort filled with every sort of amusement known to humans, you'll probably want to start your Caribbean cruise search with a look at the biggest vessels from lines like Royal Caribbean.

If "more is better" is your mantra, skip the search and look up Icon of the Seas . At 248,663 gross tons, the 20-deck-high vessel is the biggest cruise ship in the world. No ship in the Caribbean is quite like it.

Some of Icon of the Seas' wow factors include an incomparably massive water park with six waterslides, a cantilevered infinity pool, a huge glass dome encompassing an indoor AquaTheater for acrobatic and diving shows, and innovative new cabin and suite layouts for families.

Royal Caribbean offers seven-night Eastern and Western Caribbean sailings departing from Miami aboard Icon of the Seas through April 2026.

Eastern Caribbean itineraries vary but include stops at St. Maarten; St. Thomas; Nassau, Bahamas; Basseterre, St. Kitts and Nevis; San Juan, Puerto Rico; and the line's private island Perfect Day at CocoCay in the Bahamas. At the time of publication, prices for the seven-night Eastern Caribbean cruise started from $1,619 per person.

Western Caribbean ports of call include Costa Maya and Cozumel, Mexico; Roatan, Honduras; Nassau; and Perfect Day at CocoCay. Prices start from $1,579 per person, based on double occupancy, not including taxes and fees.

With at least two sea days per sailing, passengers will have ample opportunity to explore all the attractions the ship has to offer.

Related: Yikes, does Royal Caribbean's new Icon of the Seas really cost that much?

Best Caribbean cruise for families: Disney Cruise Line

In the family cruise arena , it's hard to top Disney Cruise Line . As you might expect, the line caters heavily to families in every aspect of the cruise experience — from onboard attractions to family-friendly cabin configurations.

Disney's attention to detail transfers to its voyages on the sea. Kids receive the royal treatment with high-quality kids clubs and onboard attractions like the 765-foot-long AquaDuck water coaster. Plus, they have plenty of opportunities for photo ops with their favorite Disney characters.

Parents will find opportunities to unwind at adults-only sun decks and pool areas that are closed to kids; there are also bars and clubs that are off-limits to anyone younger than 18.

Additionally, many cabins on Disney's ships feature extra pull-down bunks and pull-out sofas that will allow four or even five people to stay in a single cabin. Most cabins have two bathrooms — one with a sink and a toilet, and one with a sink and a shower or tub. This is rare in the cruise world, and it's designed to make it easier for families sharing a room to get ready.

For family fun on the high seas, try a seven-night Western Caribbean cruise aboard Disney Fantasy. Departing from Port Canaveral, the ship stops in Cozumel; George Town, Grand Cayman; Falmouth, Jamaica; and Castaway Cay , Disney's private island.

Also, depending on the time of year you sail, you can enjoy special onboard activities and events for Halloween or Christmas.

Prices start from $1,736.50 per person, based on double occupancy, including taxes, fees and port expenses.

Related: The ultimate guide to Disney Cruise Line ships and itineraries

Best budget Caribbean cruise: Carnival Cruise Line

The undisputed leader in the Caribbean cruise market when it comes to affordability is Carnival Cruise Line . Not only does Carnival offer lower fares than you'll find at most rival lines, but it also purposely deploys its Caribbean-focused vessels to a wider variety of U.S. home ports than any other line. The idea is that a large percentage of the U.S. population can reach a Caribbean-bound Carnival ship by car, saving the cost of flights.

Related: The ultimate guide to Carnival Cruise Line ships and itineraries

Carnival ships are packed with fun-focused attractions, including multiple pool areas, water parks with waterslides, basketball courts, miniature golf courses and even roller coasters on select ships .

The cruise line is known for its multitude of included-in-the-fare dining spots. Every vessel has two main dining rooms and a casual buffet eatery. Most ships feature two of the best quick-serve poolside dining venues you'll find on mass-market ships at sea: BlueIguana Cantina for burritos and tacos, as well as Guy's Burger Joint.

Carnival ships sail to the Caribbean from all the major Florida cruise hubs but also from ports as far-flung as New York City; Baltimore; Charleston, South Carolina; Norfolk, Virginia; Mobile, Alabama; New Orleans; and Galveston, Texas.

The line's 10-day Eastern Caribbean sailing from New York City on Carnival Venezia is a solid choice for budget-minded travelers seeking an affordable Caribbean escape. Passengers can swim with graceful stingrays in Gibbs Cay or tour historic Cockburn Town during a port call in Grand Turk, Turks and Caicos. In Amber Cove, Dominican Republic, you can take an exciting all-terrain-vehicle tour through the lush backcountry.

Year-round sailings in 2024 offer ample itineraries to fit your schedule and budget. Rates start from $469 per person, based on double occupancy for a 10-night sailing. Fares don't include taxes, fees and port expenses.

Related: 6 ways to get a deal on a cruise

Best Caribbean cruise for solo travelers: Norwegian Cruise Line

When it comes to catering to solo cruisers, the king of the hill in the Caribbean is Norwegian Cruise Line — at least among the big-ship lines. The Miami-based cruise operator in 2010 began adding entire zones for solo travelers to the center of every new ship it deployed to the region.

You'll now find these zones on Caribbean-focused vessels like Norwegian Encore, Norwegian Breakaway, Norwegian Getaway, Norwegian Epic and Norwegian Prima. Each of these solo cruiser zones, which are unrepeated in the industry for now, includes dozens of cabins for solo travelers, all clustered around each other. There is also a private lounge with a bar and a TV where solos can mingle at daily hosted happy hour gatherings.

Known as Studio cabins, the tiny solo rooms in these complexes measure just 100 square feet, but they're superbly designed to maximize storage space. The cabins' futuristic "Jetsons"-like design and the multicolored mood lighting are particularly noteworthy.

Related: These 8 cabins are great for travelers cruising alone

One big caveat with Norwegian's solo cabins: They're mostly "inside" rooms without an ocean view. That said, most of these interior-facing cabins have a window that looks out onto a corridor. Another downside is that these solo cabins are so popular that they often sell out far in advance at prices not much better than booking a cabin for two.

Single cruisers seeking some extensive rest and relaxation should consider the "10-day Bermuda & Caribbean: Puerto Rico & Dominican Republic" cruise out of New York City on Norwegian Getaway.

The 3,963-passenger ship is chock-full of restaurants, bars, nightlife spots and fantastic entertainment, including Broadway shows. With Norwegian's laid-back dining plan, solo travelers aren't locked into set dining times and table mates, so they can invite newly made friends to dinner at a time convenient to everyone.

Bermuda is the first stop on this six-port sailing. From there, the ship visits St. Maarten, St. Thomas, San Juan and Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic.

Rates for a Studio cabin start from $1,499, excluding taxes, fees and port expenses.

Related: The best credit cards for booking cruises

Best Caribbean cruise for luxury lovers: Windstar Cruises

For those who wouldn't be caught dead on a vessel that doesn't have butler service and free-flowing caviar, the Caribbean can be a tough spot. Many of the world's most luxurious cruise ships spend a lot of time in Europe and Asia or gallivanting around the globe on exotic world cruises . For some luxury lines, the Caribbean is almost an afterthought.

Also, you'll usually only see luxury sailings in the Caribbean during the winter months — from December through March. For luxury cruises in the Caribbean, the period between April and October is pretty much a dead zone.

However, if an upscale cruise experience is what you seek, Windstar Cruises can deliver. The line's seven-night "Classic Caribbean" itinerary aboard Wind Surf should be on your radar.

Windstar Cruises specializes in small ships carrying between 148 and 342 passengers each. The line calls them yachts, but the ships are structured more like tiny cruise ships with indoor lounges and communal dining rooms.

The 342-passenger Wind Surf features six decks, five masts and four types of cabins (all with windows only, no balconies). Accommodations range from 188-square-foot regular cabins to 376-square-foot suites.

Windstar Cruises ships also include a water sports platform. On select days when the ship is anchored (not docked at a pier) — and the weather, government regulations and planets align — passengers can enjoy various water sports like stand-up paddleboarding, kayaking and swimming right off the back of the ship. You can also lounge on a float or admire the glittering, yacht-dotted harbor from a large foam flotation island.

Wind Surf is also home to multiple dining venues, a pool and hot tubs, a boutique, a spa and a fitness center.

The seven-night Classic Caribbean itinerary begins and ends in St. Maarten. It features sun-kissed beaches, secret coves and gin-clear waters in idyllic ports of call like St. Barts, St. Kitts and Nevis, Guadeloupe, Dominica and St. Lucia.

All-inclusive rates start from $2,622 and cover Wi-Fi, gratuities and unlimited beer, wine and cocktails. Cruise-only rates start from $1,999 (and exclude taxes, fees and port expenses).

Related: The 2 classes of Windstar ships, explained

Best adults-only Caribbean cruise: Virgin Voyages

Richard Branson-backed Virgin Voyages appeals to vacationers averse to the traditional cruising experience who crave a hip, party atmosphere. Ships are blissfully void of children — cruisers must be over 18 — making it a prime choice for an adults-only cruise.

Virgin has unique onboard offerings like the first tattoo parlor at sea , lots of included dining options, free exercise classes and an app that lets you simply shake your phone to order Champagne (which is delivered to you just about anywhere on board). Also, fares include all meals, soda, basic Wi-Fi and crew gratuities.

Virgin's first vessel, Scarlet Lady, launched in late 2021. The line added Valiant Lady and Resilient Lady in 2022 and 2023, respectively. The debut of the line's fourth ship in the fleet, Brilliant Lady, has been delayed until September 2025 .

Ships are filled with stylish, adult-oriented bars promising a hopping scene late into the night, as well as hipster venues like a colorful karaoke lounge. Onboard entertainment is inventive and often edgier than what you might see on traditional cruises.

Cabins sport a minimalist look with futuristic touches, and suites exude a rock 'n' roll vibe with in-room turntables and peekaboo showers.

The line's "Dominican Haze" five-night itinerary to Bimini, Bahamas, and Puerto Plata sails out of Miami on the 2,770-passenger Scarlet Lady. With two sea days, the sailing offers a good mix of onboard activities and port-of-call exploration. Party by the pool or swim with stingrays during your day at Virgin Voyages' Bimini Beach Club . Chill out on a powder-white beach or go waterfall hunting in the jungle in the Dominican Republic.

Rates start from $913.75 per person, based on double occupancy (excluding taxes and fees).

Related: Virgin Voyages cruise cabins and suites: Everything you want to know

Best Caribbean cruise for couples: Holland America

Holland America offers spacious midsize vessels that carry no more than 2,700 passengers, providing a relaxed and intimate cruising experience ideal for pairs seeking quality time at sea.

Caribbean-craving couples will be sated with the nine-day "Southern Caribbean Seafarer" cruise sailing out of Fort Lauderdale aboard Rotterdam. The 2,650-passenger ship, which debuted in 2021, is Holland America's newest.

In addition to a main restaurant and casual buffet, Rotterdam features five separate specialty dining venues — everything from a pan-Asian eatery to an upscale steakhouse. Extensive onboard entertainment includes clubs featuring blues and classic rock, as well as various musical performances in the main theater. Cultural programming, pickleball lessons, and food and wine tastings are among the complimentary activities available.

Of course, relaxing by the pool and indulging in a restorative spa treatment are also options.

On the Southern Caribbean Seafarer cruise, couples can visit Curacao, Aruba and Half Moon Cay, the line's private island in the Bahamas. An overnight stay in Curacao allows cruisers to dive deeper into the island's history, culture and natural lures. Aruba offers diversions below and above the water, from submarine tours and snorkeling to hikes and off-roading adventures. The stop at pristine Half Moon Cay provides an easy and relaxing beach day.

Rates start from $799 per person, based on double occupancy (excluding taxes and fees).

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