Southern Caribbean: Cabo Rojo & ABC Islands

Known as the 'cruise capital of the world', Port Miami is is considered to be the world’s busiest cruise ship port. Whether arriving or departing, aboard your cruise liner you can take in the superb view of the Miami skyline.

This multicultural city where the sun rules supreme is more than just a cruise port. Visitors from all over the world enjoy Miami’s famous Art Deco buildings, family-friendly zoos and romantic palm tree-lined streets filled with fantastic restaurants. Don’t forget about the white sandy beaches and year-round warm weather, perfect for relaxing before or after your Caribbean cruise from Miami.

A day cruising at sea offers you the perfect mix of relaxation and activity. Start your morning on the top-level decks with a game of pickleball, enjoying the fresh sea breeze and expansive ocean views. Or, head to the Greenhouse Spa & Salon® to rejuvenate with a therapeutic spa treatment. The Kids Club will keep younger guests entertained with a variety of fun events and activities, while you can unwind by the pool or enjoy a Pilates class at the Fitness Center.

In the evening, delight in a tantalizing meal at one of the ship's restaurants, and afterward, enjoy a world-class performance at the stunning World Stage, adding a touch of culture to your night. Whether you're seeking adventure, relaxation, or both, a day at sea will be full of unforgettable experiences.

Sint 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.

Philipsburg is the capital of Dutch Sint Maarten and it's port is conveniently located about 2 kilometers (1.2 miles) from downtown Philipsburg, taking roughly 5 minutes by car or a leisurely 20-minute walk. Visitors can explore the vibrant Front Street, known for its duty-free shopping, colorful boutiques, and lively cafes. Transportation options include taxis, rental cars, and water taxis. Don’t miss a visit to the Great Bay Beach, just steps from the main shopping area, or venture to Maho Beach to watch planes land dramatically close to the shore.

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. Johns, Antigua, a treasure trove of 365 pristine beaches, offers an unmatched Caribbean adventure. With Holland America, explore the intriguing Nelson's Dockyard, relax on sun-swept shores, and take in panoramic views from Shirley Heights Lookout for a memorable escape.

Top 3: Things To See In St. Johns, Antigua And Barbuda

• Shirley Heights Lookout - For spectacular island views, trek up to this military fort positioned an impressive 150 meters (490 feet) above sea level.
• Nelson's Dockyard - This historic maritime site dates back to the 1700s, now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
• Betty’s Hope - One of the oldest sugar plantations on Antigua, Betty's Hope is now a museum.

Fort-de-France, located on Martinique is the largest city in the French West Indies and it has personality to match. Life here is vibrant and fast-paced, and the culture is as colourful as the brightly painted shops that line the city’s cobblestone streets. Ships will dock at the port.

Top Things to Do in Fort-de-France:

• visit the Botanical Gardens
• join a rainforest hike to Absalon
• visit the Rum Distillery
• explore a banana plantation
• see the ruins of Chateau Dubuc
• take a helicopter flight over Martinique

The capital of Dominica, Roseau is a small town with plenty of colonial charm. Its surrounds are lush and mountainous, rich rainforest embraces rare bird species, crater lakes, bubbling hot springs and splendid tumbling cascades. Ships will dock at this port.

Top Things to Do in Roseau:

• relax in the hot springs at Bongo Baths
• snorkel Champagne Reef
• swim at Trafalgar Falls
• 4wd through Dominica's rainforests
• visit the Dominica Botanic Garden
• hike to the Emerald Pool

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

St. Thomas, part of the U.S. Virgin Islands, offers a blend of pristine beaches, vibrant culture, and rich history. Begin your day exploring Charlotte Amalie, the island's capital, where you can wander through the historic district filled with 17th-century Danish architecture. Don’t miss Blackbeard’s Castle, a watchtower that offers panoramic views of the harbor.

For a more relaxed experience, head to Magens Bay, renowned for its crystal-clear waters and soft white sand, perfect for swimming and sunbathing. Adventure seekers can snorkel at Coki Beach, known for its colorful marine life. St. Thomas also boasts a range of duty-free shopping options, with boutique stores offering everything from local crafts to luxury goods.

A day cruising at sea offers you the perfect mix of relaxation and activity. Start your morning on the top-level decks with a game of pickleball, enjoying the fresh sea breeze and expansive ocean views. Or, head to the Greenhouse Spa & Salon® to rejuvenate with a therapeutic spa treatment. The Kids Club will keep younger guests entertained with a variety of fun events and activities, while you can unwind by the pool or enjoy a Pilates class at the Fitness Center.

In the evening, delight in a tantalizing meal at one of the ship's restaurants, and afterward, enjoy a world-class performance at the stunning World Stage, adding a touch of culture to your night. Whether you're seeking adventure, relaxation, or both, a day at sea will be full of unforgettable experiences.

Half Moon Cay, a picturesque private island owned by Holland America Line. Its award-winning, crescent-shaped beach stretches over 4km (2.5 miles) of white, powdery sand against a backdrop of turquoise waters, making it a haven for relaxation and water sports.

Despite its exclusivity, Half Moon Cay provides a range of activities, from horseback riding by the shore to snorkeling among vibrant coral reefs.

The island is also dedicated to preserving its untouched environment, with only a fraction developed for tourism. Visitors can explore a bird sanctuary, encounter stingrays up close at Stingray Cove, or enjoy leisurely walks along scenic nature trails.

With amenities designed to enhance the natural setting, Half Moon Cay embodies the essence of a tranquil Caribbean paradise.

Known as the 'cruise capital of the world', Port Miami is is considered to be the world’s busiest cruise ship port. Whether arriving or departing, aboard your cruise liner you can take in the superb view of the Miami skyline.

This multicultural city where the sun rules supreme is more than just a cruise port. Visitors from all over the world enjoy Miami’s famous Art Deco buildings, family-friendly zoos and romantic palm tree-lined streets filled with fantastic restaurants. Don’t forget about the white sandy beaches and year-round warm weather, perfect for relaxing before or after your Caribbean cruise from Miami.

A day cruising at sea offers you the perfect mix of relaxation and activity. Start your morning on the top-level decks with a game of pickleball, enjoying the fresh sea breeze and expansive ocean views. Or, head to the Greenhouse Spa & Salon® to rejuvenate with a therapeutic spa treatment. The Kids Club will keep younger guests entertained with a variety of fun events and activities, while you can unwind by the pool or enjoy a Pilates class at the Fitness Center.

In the evening, delight in a tantalizing meal at one of the ship's restaurants, and afterward, enjoy a world-class performance at the stunning World Stage, adding a touch of culture to your night. Whether you're seeking adventure, relaxation, or both, a day at sea will be full of unforgettable experiences.

Kralendijk, the capital of Bonaire, welcomes cruise ships at the North and South Piers. The town center is a mere 500 meters (0.3 miles) away, easily reachable on foot within 5-10 minutes. This proximity allows travelers to explore Kralendijk’s charming streets, colorful buildings, and local shops without hassle. A short trip of about 8 kilometers (5 miles) takes you to the stunning beaches of Lac Bay.

Discover a touch of old Amsterdam transported to an island paradise. The capital of the Caribbean island Curacao, Willemstad is famous for its technicolour UNESCO World Heritage Site city centre. Ships will dock at the port.

Top Things to Do in Willemstad:

• explore Christoffel National Park
• snorkel in Caracas Bay
• ride the trolley train through Willemstad
• relax on Cas Abao Beach
• visit the Hato Caves
• join an underwater tour in a semi-submarine

Dutch influence still lingers on this balmy Caribbean island, part of the former Netherlands Antilles until its independence in 1986. Aruba is a contrast, the island's arid interior is dotted with cactus and windswept divi-divi trees while secluded coves and sandy beaches make up its coast.

Top Things to Do in Aruba:

• 4WD through the Aruba Arikok National Park
• explore the islands capital, Oranjestad
• climb the steps to the summit of Hooiberg
• swim and relax at Eagle Beach
• snorkel or dive the Antilla shipwreck

Incredibly white sands and cobalt blue seas make the small island of Aruba a popular destination. In the bustling freeport town of Oranjestad, sherbet-coloured Dutch colonial buildings, draped in bougainvillea, oleander and hibiscus are simply picturesque. Ships will dock at the cruise terminal. 

Top Things to Do in Oranjestad:

• 4WD through the Aruba Arikok National Park
• visit the National Archeological Museum
• climb the steps to the summit of Hooiberg
• swim and relax at Eagle Beach
• snorkel at De Palm Island

A day cruising at sea offers you the perfect mix of relaxation and activity. Start your morning on the top-level decks with a game of pickleball, enjoying the fresh sea breeze and expansive ocean views. Or, head to the Greenhouse Spa & Salon® to rejuvenate with a therapeutic spa treatment. The Kids Club will keep younger guests entertained with a variety of fun events and activities, while you can unwind by the pool or enjoy a Pilates class at the Fitness Center.

In the evening, delight in a tantalizing meal at one of the ship's restaurants, and afterward, enjoy a world-class performance at the stunning World Stage, adding a touch of culture to your night. Whether you're seeking adventure, relaxation, or both, a day at sea will be full of unforgettable experiences.

Cabo Rojo, located on the southwestern coast of the Dominican Republic, is a hidden gem known for its stunning natural beauty and tranquil ambience. The area boasts pristine beaches with crystal-clear waters, making it an ideal spot for swimming and snorkelling. One of the highlights is the Cabo Rojo National Wildlife Refuge, home to diverse bird species and the mesmerising Laguna de Oviedo, where you can take guided boat tours to observe flamingos and other wildlife.

For those interested in history and culture, a visit to the nearby town of Pedernales offers a glimpse into local life and traditions. Don’t miss the chance to explore Bahía de las Águilas, considered one of the most beautiful beaches in the Caribbean, accessible by boat or a scenic drive. The combination of natural wonders and serene landscapes makes Cabo Rojo a perfect destination for a peaceful and rejuvenating shore excursion.

A day cruising at sea offers you the perfect mix of relaxation and activity. Start your morning on the top-level decks with a game of pickleball, enjoying the fresh sea breeze and expansive ocean views. Or, head to the Greenhouse Spa & Salon® to rejuvenate with a therapeutic spa treatment. The Kids Club will keep younger guests entertained with a variety of fun events and activities, while you can unwind by the pool or enjoy a Pilates class at the Fitness Center.

In the evening, delight in a tantalizing meal at one of the ship's restaurants, and afterward, enjoy a world-class performance at the stunning World Stage, adding a touch of culture to your night. Whether you're seeking adventure, relaxation, or both, a day at sea will be full of unforgettable experiences.

Half Moon Cay, a picturesque private island owned by Holland America Line. Its award-winning, crescent-shaped beach stretches over 4km (2.5 miles) of white, powdery sand against a backdrop of turquoise waters, making it a haven for relaxation and water sports.

Despite its exclusivity, Half Moon Cay provides a range of activities, from horseback riding by the shore to snorkeling among vibrant coral reefs.

The island is also dedicated to preserving its untouched environment, with only a fraction developed for tourism. Visitors can explore a bird sanctuary, encounter stingrays up close at Stingray Cove, or enjoy leisurely walks along scenic nature trails.

With amenities designed to enhance the natural setting, Half Moon Cay embodies the essence of a tranquil Caribbean paradise.

Known as the 'cruise capital of the world', Port Miami is is considered to be the world’s busiest cruise ship port. Whether arriving or departing, aboard your cruise liner you can take in the superb view of the Miami skyline.

This multicultural city where the sun rules supreme is more than just a cruise port. Visitors from all over the world enjoy Miami’s famous Art Deco buildings, family-friendly zoos and romantic palm tree-lined streets filled with fantastic restaurants. Don’t forget about the white sandy beaches and year-round warm weather, perfect for relaxing before or after your Caribbean cruise from Miami.