The islands of the Eastern Caribbean consist of Puerto Rico, the US Virgin Islands, the British Virgin Islands and St Maarten.These string of islands carry more cruise passengers than any other ports at sea.
Some of the popular ones you may get to explore during your travels are San Juan, the second oldest city of the Americas, St Thomas and Tortola which was discovered by Christopher Columbus in 1493.
While the peak season for an Eastern Caribbean cruise runs from December through April as travelers try to escape the harsh winters, the islands are great to visit all round the year.
This guide covers the old Spanish city of San Juan, the duty-free harbor of St Thomas and the quiet British sailing island of Tortola and how to explore them without putting a strain on your budget.
San Juan, Puerto Rico
San Juan is considered to be the gateway to the Caribbean and the finest port as well. The ships dock at the historic waterfront from where the five-centuries-old Old Town is just across the road.
No taxi or shuttle to catch, just a short walk over the blue-cobbled streets will take you to two UNESCO World Heritage sites, the Spanish Forts of El Morro and San Cristobal, above the landward wall.
The ship docks here for a full day for those passengers who want to enjoy some beach fun at the Condado Beach, about ten minutes east by taxi.
The Bacardi rum distillery at Catano can also be accessed across the bay by ferry.
St Thomas, US Virgin Islands
Another most visited port is St Thomas and its picturesque harbor at Charlotte Amalie, said to be the finest in the region. The island trades on its duty-free shopping and the beautiful beaches with ocean views.
There is a spine of hills behind the port from where you get to see surreal views of Magens Bay, the celebrated au-shaped beach on the north shore. The two lookout points are Mountain Top and Drake’s Seat.
The marine park at Coral World and the underwater observatory by Coki Beach are well worth a visit.
Tortola, British Virgin Islands
The volcanic island of Tortola is the most spirited of the British Virgin Islands and the most celebrated sailing capital of the Caribbean.
For cruise travelers, with a day ashore, Tortola offers a rewarding range of experiences, from beach time at Cane Garden Bay to exploring the Sage Mountain National Park that towers over the island at 1,700 feet.
Those willing to take a 45-minutes fast ferry, can enjoy the geological wonders of The Baths at Virgin Gorda, with giant boulders forming sea caves and tidal pools.
The waters surrounding Tortola are among the clearest, perfect for snorkeling with ship wrecks and coral reefs within easy reach of Road Town.
Thanks to the freedom and flexibility a cruise offers to guests of all sizes, one can experience the best cruise holiday ever. Unpacking once, and exploring multiple cities, plus onboard entertainment, makes this a holiday that is exactly yours.
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