Overview
Next, we’re off to French-flavored Marigot in St. Martin before returning for a second look at Basseterre with its Caribbean Georgian architecture. Swim with eagle rays and tarpon in Jost Van Dyke on the British Virgin Islands and lie on the longest stretch of white-sand beach in the Caribbean in Punta Cana, Dominican Republic before a restful day at sea ahead of party time in Montego Bay, Jamaica.
Next comes George Town on Grand Cayman for a spot of shopping or a visit to the Cayman Islands National Museum, then we touch the Caribbean coast of Central America at Cozumel, Mexico, to find out more about Mayan civilization. Relax now as we cross the Caribbean bound for Fort Lauderdale once more.
740
700
2003
2023
FLLFLL18.2
Itinerary
City meets sea in the coastal metropolis of Fort Lauderdale, Florida. Soak up the sun along vast swaths of pristine white sands, take a scenic boat tour through palm-fringed canals, shop your way along the famous Las Olas Boulevard, and sip refreshing craft beers along the Fort Lauderdale Ale Trail. When it comes to dining, you’re spoilt for choice: from fresh seafood with a waterfront view to Michelin-approved pizza, there’s mouthwatering cuisine at every turn.
A day at sea with Crystal can be as relaxed or as engaging as you wish. Begin with breakfast on your veranda, take a walk along the Promenade Deck or spend the morning by the Seahorse Pool before retreating to the Aurōra Spa & Salon for a restorative treatment. Enrichment is always close at hand, with lectures, bridge, creative workshops, dance classes, wellness sessions and opportunities to fine tune skills from photography to golf.
Dining is a highlight throughout the day, from relaxed bites by the pool to elegant dinners at venues such as Umi Uma by Nobu, Beefbar or Waterside. As evening arrives, enjoy live music, theatre entertainment, comedy, social gatherings, cocktails in the lounges or a quiet night in with 24-hour in-suite dining.
It’s not hard to see why Christopher Columbus built his first home in the Americas in Puerto Plata – this great, blonde beach with the spectacular peak of Mount Isabel de Torres rising behind it is an extraordinarily beautiful place. The Caribbean’s only cable car is here and gives a bird’s eye view of the spectacular coastline and patchwork of coffee and cacao plantations that roll out inland, fringed with sinuous rivers and unspoilt villages. The town itself – famous for its 19th-century architecture and imposing fortress – thrums with the sound of the street markets and reggae beats from brightly painted bars, particularly in the lively El Malecon district.
A day at sea with Crystal can be as relaxed or as engaging as you wish. Begin with breakfast on your veranda, take a walk along the Promenade Deck or spend the morning by the Seahorse Pool before retreating to the Aurōra Spa & Salon for a restorative treatment. Enrichment is always close at hand, with lectures, bridge, creative workshops, dance classes, wellness sessions and opportunities to fine tune skills from photography to golf.
Dining is a highlight throughout the day, from relaxed bites by the pool to elegant dinners at venues such as Umi Uma by Nobu, Beefbar or Waterside. As evening arrives, enjoy live music, theatre entertainment, comedy, social gatherings, cocktails in the lounges or a quiet night in with 24-hour in-suite dining.
It's well worth getting off the beach in Point a Pitre. While the vibrant, de facto capital beckons with its long ribbons of sand and sparkling turquoise waters, it is the fascinating blend of French and Caribbean influences, evident in its charming architecture, bustling markets, and vibrant festivals that take center stage here. Stroll along the waterfront, stopping off at the Marche Couvert, where you'll find everything from fresh papaya and golden strands of saffron to locally woven fabrics and hand-crafted ornaments. Stroll along palm-lined streets, savoring French-Caribbean fusion cuisine, and feel the rhythmic pulse of the local music scene. If you're interested in French architecture, you must stop at Rue de l'Eglise to admire the bright yellow Cathedrale de St-Pierre et St-Paul. Constructed in the 19th century, the Catholic church exhibits a blend of Gothic and Romanesque architectural styles, including twin towers and intricate detailing, making it a notable landmark in the city.
Basseterre is the compact coastal capital of the Caribbean island St. Kitts, where verdant hills and sugar-white sands meet architectural artefacts of French and British colonial rule. The town center is anchored by Independence Square – formerly Pall Mall Square – an 18th-century plaza with an ornate fountain and lush lawn, while nearby, the Georgian-inspired Circus is modeled after London's own Piccadilly. Venture just beyond the city to explore the UNESCO-listed Brimstone Hill Fortress National Park, an 18th-century British-built fortress that offers sweeping views and serves as a striking reminder of the island’s layered history.
Puerto Rico’s capital makes a strong impression – even before you arrive on shore. Sailing into the harbor, keep an eye out for El Morro, a 16th-century citadel and UNESCO World Heritage Site, Castillo San Cristobal, a fearsome fortress built to scare away invaders, and La Fortaleza, the impressive official residence of the Governor of Puerto Rico. Once ashore, step back in time along cobbled streets and through squares flanked by pastel-colored Spanish colonial buildings. Or take your pick of beaches – will it be the golden-sanded Isla Verde, the snorkeler-approved El Escambrón, or the laid-back Ocean Park? Just don’t leave San Juan without sampling a piña colada (or two) – the tropical cocktail was invented here in the 1950s.
Saint Martin, a gem in the Caribbean, is renowned for its dual French and Dutch heritage. This unique blend offers travelers a diverse cultural experience. In the French capital, Marigot, visit the bustling open-air markets and savor gourmet dining, while in Philipsburg on the Dutch side, indulge in duty-free shopping and lively beach bars. Maho Beach, famous for its low-flying planes, is a must-see spectacle.
For nature lovers, the island offers pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters perfect for snorkeling and diving. Loterie Farm provides an adventurous escape with zip-lining and hiking trails. Don't miss the opportunity to sample local delicacies like conch fritters and guavaberry liqueur, which reflect the island’s rich culinary traditions.
Marigot, a charming town on the French side of the dual-nation island of St. Martin, is a delightful fusion of Caribbean and European influences. Nestled along a picturesque bay, Marigot boasts colorful Creole-style buildings, bustling local life, and a relaxed, take-it-easy ambiance. Visitors can explore the quaint streets, indulge in French pastries, and shop for local crafts at the vibrant markets. Fort Louis offers a panoramic view of the town and the surrounding turquoise waters, and is an unmissable view for visitors whether it is your first or fiftieth time on the island! With its unique blend of cultures and stunning coastal beauty, Marigot remains a captivating destination for travelers seeking an authentic Caribbean experience with a touch of French sophistication.
The port town for the island of St. Kitts, Basseterre has centuries of history to explore in impressive estates and photo-worthy monuments. With more than a quarter of the island set aside as a national park and a rainforest that is growing rather than shrinking, St. Kitts is a stunning tropical island escape. Ships will dock at this port.
Top Things to Do in Basseterre:
- hike the Mount Liamuiga trail
- circle St. Kitts in a restored vintage train
- zip line in the Valley of Giants
- visit the Brimstone Hill Fortress
Coconut palms, sugar-soft sand, crystalline waters teeming with fish – the eastern tip of this island is bliss for beach lovers, made even better with the Dominicans’ slow-paced charm. There are so many ways to explore, from dune-buggy rides through ancient palm groves to eco-friendly walking trails in Bavaro Park, and encounters with some of the 150 animal species – including iguanas, dolphins, sea lions, and parrots – that call Manati Park home. The 500-year-old town of Higuey is the place to browse for souvenirs, shop for colorful ceramics and textiles in the lively Municipal Market, and sample a wicked mamajuana rum cocktail (or two).
A day at sea with Crystal can be as relaxed or as engaging as you wish. Begin with breakfast on your veranda, take a walk along the Promenade Deck or spend the morning by the Seahorse Pool before retreating to the Aurōra Spa & Salon for a restorative treatment. Enrichment is always close at hand, with lectures, bridge, creative workshops, dance classes, wellness sessions and opportunities to fine tune skills from photography to golf.
Dining is a highlight throughout the day, from relaxed bites by the pool to elegant dinners at venues such as Umi Uma by Nobu, Beefbar or Waterside. As evening arrives, enjoy live music, theatre entertainment, comedy, social gatherings, cocktails in the lounges or a quiet night in with 24-hour in-suite dining.
Georgetown, the capital of the Cayman Islands, serves as a vibrant hub of activity and culture. Located on Grand Cayman, it is known for its excellent duty-free shopping, ranging from luxury boutiques to local crafts. The city also boasts a rich maritime history, which can be explored in depth at the Cayman Islands National Museum.
Visitors arriving by cruise are welcomed by the picturesque harbour and its crystal-clear waters, ideal for snorkelling and diving. Just offshore, the famous Stingray City offers a unique opportunity to swim alongside and feed the friendly southern stingrays in their natural habitat.
Cozumel is the largest island in the Mexican Caribbean. Rich in history, Mayan vestiges and natural wonders, it is a true paradise in the middle of the sea with white beaches, beautiful sunsets and world famous for its coral reefs.
Top Things to Do in Cozumel:
- visit the San Gervasio Mayan site
- explore the Chankanaab National Park
- visit the Museo de Cozumel
- cross to the mainland and explore Tulum, Playa Del Carmen or Chichén Itza
- spend the day at Xcaret Eco Park
- snorkel one of Cozumel's famous reefs
A day at sea with Crystal can be as relaxed or as engaging as you wish. Begin with breakfast on your veranda, take a walk along the Promenade Deck or spend the morning by the Seahorse Pool before retreating to the Aurōra Spa & Salon for a restorative treatment. Enrichment is always close at hand, with lectures, bridge, creative workshops, dance classes, wellness sessions and opportunities to fine tune skills from photography to golf.
Dining is a highlight throughout the day, from relaxed bites by the pool to elegant dinners at venues such as Umi Uma by Nobu, Beefbar or Waterside. As evening arrives, enjoy live music, theatre entertainment, comedy, social gatherings, cocktails in the lounges or a quiet night in with 24-hour in-suite dining.
Fort Lauderdale is famous for its beaches, arts, culture and events. More than just an arrival and departure port, the city offers cruise guests an abundance of activities. From shopping on Las Olas Boulevard, to gondola rides on the canals, to a historic riverfront.
Nature enthusiasts head to Hugh Taylor Birch State Park for walking and biking trails, travel down to the Florida Everglades for an airboat tour, or beat the heat with a trip to the Museum of Science and Discovery.
Ships will dock at one of the biggest cruise ports in the world, Port Everglades.
Life On Board
From sumptuous suites and public spaces to Crystal's multi‑award‑winning personalized service each aspect of your experience has been made with care at every step. Read more
On Crystal ships, our all-inclusive program gives you the sense of freedom and peace of mind that comes from knowing we’ve taken care of everything. Read more
Time at sea should feel comfortable from your own suite as well as around the ship. Every suite has a private veranda, giving you the space to follow the horizon. Read more
Crystal's award-winning cuisine is created and influenced by pioneers in the global food scene, with nine distinct complimentary venues to choose from. Read more
From themed experiences – cooking classes, flamenco dancing, and diving trips – to guided tours of historical sites, there’s something to suit all interests & fitness levels. Read more
AUD Tour & cruises prices are per person. Prices shown have savings applied, are subject to availability and may be withdrawn at any time without notice. Pricing and trip details are correct at this point in time, however are subject to confirmation at the time of booking and are subject to change by Crystal. For cruise itineraries, cabin images are sourced from the cruise-line and should be treated as indicative only. Cabin inclusions, upholsteries and room layout may differ to the image(s) shown depending on the ship selected and your sailing dates.
