About the Caribbean
The Caribbean is a collection of islands in the west Atlantic Ocean between North and South America. Most cruises to the Caribbean depart from Miami and include a series of islands along the way.
Although there are a huge number of islands, the most popular include Antigua, Bahamas, Barbados, British Virgin Islands, Cayman Islands, Cuba, Dominican Republic, Grenada, Puerto Rico, St Kitts and Nevis, St Lucia, Trinidad and Tobago, and Turks and Caicos.
The Indians were the first to inhabit the Caribbean. When Columbus arrived in 1492, he thought that he had reached Asia and so named them the Indies. Over time, this became the haven of outcasts, pirates and explorers from Europe and the America. Very soon a slave trade was created and slaves from Africa were brought here to work the sugar plantations. With such rich pickings, the islands at various times, were under the control of the Spanish, the Dutch, the North Americans and the British.
This range of influences created a blend that moulded into its distinctive iconic cultural heritage and has contributed to making the Caribbean one of the world's most popular destinations today.
Caribbean Attractions
The Caribbean cruise industry has become so sophisticated that, for many, the experience on the cruise ship itself, with all the onboard activities, can become the essence of the holiday in itself. However, there is so much more to cruising in the Caribbean. It would be impossible to list it all but we have come up with a few highlights:
For those who like perfectly lazy, laid back beaches, Barbados has it all. Antigua claims to offer a beach for every day of the year and Anguilla offers more off the beaten track get-aways. Jamaica, the home of Reggae also boasts perfect white-sand beaches. For those interested in nature and outdoor activites many of the Islands have much to offer. The Caymans are known for wildlife including Iguanas. For scuba diving, some of the better Islands include Puerto Rico, the Bahamas, Tobago and the volcanic British Virgin Islands. These islands are also excellent for hiking, nature trails and eco tourism, with caving in Puerto Rico, rainforests in Dominica, and the national park in St Johns.
For those who love music, salsa and cigars, Cuba is ideal and for shoppers, St Thomas is a bustling cruise hub with luxurious duty free shopping and resorts. While many islands offer entertainment Barbados, Trinidad and Jamaica are well known for their lively nightlife.
Let 1st4Cruising help you select your perfect Caribbean Cruise
Whatever your style of cruise and whatever your budget, we at 1st4Cruising would love to help you make your cruise to the Caribbean very special. For further information on our special offers, with up to 50% off list price, why not browse online through our huge range of cruise itineraries or, alternatively, give our cruise specialists a call on 08708 30 86 89.
Bon Voyage!
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