San Juan to New York

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.

Dominica is the nature lover’s retreat from the rush of daily life, a fragrant tangle of rainforest that is easily explored from its capital, Roseau. The tiny volcanic island offers both golden- and black-sand beaches to loll on – Batibou is a dazzler – but it’s the wild beauty of its interior that enchants. Hike through the Titou Gorge, familiar from the moviePirates of the Caribbean: Dead Man’s Chest, dipping into the chasm’s cool waters to swim to the waterfall at its end. Climb into the mountains at Morne Diablotins National Park (one of three on the island) for the chance to catch sight of the sisserou parrot. And delve into history at Fort Shirley, scene of an important slave revolt. Snorkeling in the bubbly, volcanic waters at Champagne Reef, shopping for handcrafted gifts at the Old Market, and watching out for sperm whales – this is the only country whose waters they live in year-round.

Saint Lucia is the quintessential island paradise, with the majestic peaks of the Pitons, the splendour of lush rainforests, and the blue-green waters of the Caribbean breaking just off shore. Here, the mix of Caribbean, African, English, and French cultures creates an exquisite blend of food, music, and traditions. Enjoy a leisurely morning visiting Sulphur Springs, the world's only drive-in volcano, where you can relax in therapeutic mud baths and hot springs. For a taste of local culture, head to Castries Market, bustling with vendors selling fresh produce, spices, and handmade crafts.

Antigua and Barbuda beckon with their pristine beaches and vibrant history. For beach enthusiasts, Antigua presents a different shore for each day of the year, like the tranquil Half Moon Bay. Adventure seekers can explore the mysterious caves at Two Foot Bay in Barbuda, offering a glimpse into the island’s natural wonders.

History buffs will find Nelson’s Dockyard, a UNESCO World Heritage site in Antigua, a compelling visit, showcasing the island's rich naval history. For a unique experience, take a boat tour to the Frigate Bird Sanctuary in Barbuda, one of the world’s largest, to observe these magnificent birds in their natural habitat. Culinary explorers can delight in the local cuisine, with seafood and Creole dishes highlighting the islands’ cultural melting pot.

St. John’s is the compact, colorful capital of twin-island nation Antigua and Barbuda and an ideal base for exploring all that the islands have to offer. Step off the ship straight into the heart of the action: wander bustling markets; admire pretty, pastel-hued buildings; and discover historic sites like the neo-Baroque St. John's Cathedral and the Museum of Antigua and Barbuda, housed in the 18th-century Old Court House. Many of Antigua’s beaches are within easy reach of St. John’s, so take your pick. Dickenson Bay is a hit with swimmers and snorkelers for its calm, clear waters, while the powdery sands of Runaway Beach are perfect for more secluded relaxation.

Candy-colored houses and sugar-sand beaches give this sweet port town a fairytale appeal. One of the quieter spots on this island, the Samana Peninsula allows easy access to coves and bays straight out of a picture book. Playa Payita, known to the locals as The Little Lagoon, offers aquamarine water to dip into and the shade of bamboo and banana leaf umbrellas to retreat beneath. Playa Fronton, with its coconut palms and backdrop of black rock, is the perfect place to snorkel amid schools of parrotfish, nemos, and sunfish. But the big draw is the humpback whales that visit in winter – there's even a museum dedicated to the awesome creatures. Back on dry land, Los Haitises National Park, home to enchanting caves and ndangered birds, is a pretty place to hike, bike or kayak.Indulging in Samana’s coconut-infused and zesty fresh seafood delicacies, taking a boat to the secluded beach at Playa Madama, spotting manatees amongst the mangroves in Los Haitises.

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.

A visit to this one-of-a-kind cinematic city is a frantic, fascinating feast for the senses. Liberally scattered with familiar landmarks, world-leading museums, and with an atmosphere and infectious energy found nowhere else.

Whether arriving or departing, aboard your cruise liner you can take in the stunning view of the New York skyline. There are three cruise ship terminals in New York City, the Manhattan cruise terminal located in Hell’s Kitchen, the Brooklyn cruise terminal located in the Red Hook neighbourhood and the Cape Liberty cruise port located in the Port of New York and New Jersey.