An Eastern Caribbean cruise is one of the most decadent and enjoyable ways to spend a vacation. The turquoise waters and golden-sand beaches of this exquisite corner of the globe offer adventurous travelers an extraordinarily luxurious escape, with deluxe experiences both on board and ashore.
From pristine jungles, empty beaches, and crystal-clear waters to mouthwatering cuisine and a fascinating, vibrant culture, the Eastern Caribbean offers an amazing playground for travelers to explore. So if you plan to check out the best itineraries for an Eastern Caribbean cruise, here are a few of the highlights and some of the most luxurious shore excursions to try.
Private Beach Retreats
The height of luxury on an Eastern Caribbean cruise can be found at a private beach retreat. This is the perfect way to embrace pure and total relaxation, escape the crowds, and treat yourself as one of the elite. Most cruise lines offer exclusive access to a variety of remote, secluded beaches across the region, where you can enjoy incredible amenities and gourmet al fresco dining far from the main tourist trail.
Yacht or Catamaran Sailing
Taking time off the main cruise ship to get closer to the water with a private yacht or catamaran trip is a great way to experience incredible luxury and explore the amazing coastlines of the islands of the Eastern Caribbean. On your private boat, you’ll explore hidden coves and secret beaches, with first-class service from your highly-trained crew. A sailing expedition is also a great chance to try snorkeling, as many of the most beautiful sights in this part of the world are actually below the waves!
Culinary Tours and Cooking Classes
The Eastern Caribbean has a unique culinary heritage, and one of the best ways to explore the culture of the region is with a private food tour, spiced up even further with a few cooking classes from local chefs! You’ll have the chance to shop for fresh ingredients in local markets, taste the finest flavors straight from the source, and try your hand at recreating your favorite dishes under the expert guidance of the best chefs the islands have to offer.
Spa and Wellness Retreats
Luxury treatment on a cruise often means giving yourself the freedom to be pampered, and one of the best ways to do this is with a day at the spa. Most cruise ships have excellent onboard facilities when it comes to wellness and rejuvenation, but for truly exquisite experiences it is worth discovering a wellness retreat as a shore excursion. Many of the destinations on your itinerary will have incredible spa amenities to offer, and a day of revitalizing treatments and therapies inspired by Caribbean healing traditions, alongside massages, aromatherapy, and simply relaxing in a warm jacuzzi, will do wonders for your body and soul.
Helicopter or Seaplane Sightseeing Tours
To really take luxury to the next level, try taking to the skies and exploring the Eastern Caribbean by seaplane or helicopter! There is nothing quite like a bird’s eye view of these gorgeous islands, and you will see a whole new perspective on your trip from high up in the air. A flight is one of the best ways to give a little extra something to your trip photography as well, with the chance to take stunning aerial photography of the lush jungles, natural wonders, and turquoise seas below.
An Eastern Caribbean cruise is the perfect opportunity to treat yourself and indulge in genuine luxury. The shore excursions and experiences above are just a taste of what awaits you, so don’t wait – pack your bags today and cruise in style on an Eastern Caribbean itinerary.