Amazon To Caribbean Gems

Bridgetown, the captivating capital of Barbados, combines faded colonial history, captivating tradition, and vivid white beaches. Stately colonial buildings intermingle with colourful wooden homes, open-air markets and catch-of-the-day cafés. Ships will dock at this port.

Top Things to Do in Bridgetown:

• ride an electric tram into Harrison Cave
• look for green monkeys in the Barbados Wildlife Reserve
• relax at the Copacabana Beach Bar
• visit the George Washington House
• go underwater in the Atlantis Submarine

As you navigate through the labyrinth of waterways, marvel at the diverse array of wildlife and rich flora and fauna. This scenic journey provides a unique opportunity to appreciate the vastness and biodiversity of one of the world's most incredible natural wonders from the comfort of your ship.

Santarem is one of the Amazon's most important trading centres, and is rich in legend and nature. Best known for its location, it is surrounded by two rivers: the Amazon, of muddy water, and Tapajós, of clear, green water, forming a beautiful meeting of different waters that do not mix for several kilometres. Ships will dock at this port.

Top Things to Do in Santarem:

• join a river cruise that takes you to the 'meeting of the waters'
• hike a Tapajós National Forest trail
• visit Casa da Farinha

This isolated island town in the Amazon River, has rich biodiversity, with river beaches that emerge during the period of low water level of the Amazon and Uaicurapá rivers.

Steeped in centuries-old Indian culture, this village celebrates an annual 'Boi Bumba' festival. The yearly folkloric festival, celebrates cultural diversity in the Amazon and is held in June but the townspeople reenact the festival for visitors throughout the year. The city is divided into two groups that compete against each other: the 'Caprichosos' in blue and the 'Garantidos' in red.

Manaus, the 'Paris of the Jungle,' is the capital of Brazil’s state of Amazonas and offers a rich variety of culture, art, dining and nature. The former river village rests along the left bank of the Rio Negro. Ships will dock at the Porto Flutuante (floating docks).

Top Things to Do in Manaus:

• visit the Rubber Museum
• cruise Lake January to admire the giant Victoria water lilies
• visit Acajatuba to interact with Pink Dolphins
• wander the Military Zoo, a haven for endangered animals

The Indian Village of Boca Da Valeria is nestled on a 400 ft hill overlooking the Amazon. With less than 100 people, the village boasts no tourism infrastructure. Yet it lures travellers by offering an authentic glimpse of the simple river life that the Amerindians have followed for centuries.

Ashore, you will find log canoes, grass huts, and a life of hunting and fishing unchanged since the time of the early explorers. Meaning "Mouth of the Valeria River," the remote fishing and trading village sits at the convergence of the Amazon and the Rio da Valeria.

Alter do Chão is a charming riverside village located on the Rio Tapajos, it offers quaint cottages along white-sand beaches lined with leafy palm trees. Home to Ilha do Amor, one of the most photographed white sand islands in the entire world.

Explore Lago Verde, a grand lagoon that can be viewed from rented canoes, or take a boat tour along the Rio Tapajós or the Amazon. You’ll see a number of bird species and might even spot a crocodile or a sloth. Try Serra Pelada if you seek the perfect place for a short but breathtaking hike.

As you navigate through the labyrinth of waterways, marvel at the diverse array of wildlife and rich flora and fauna. This scenic journey provides a unique opportunity to appreciate the vastness and biodiversity of one of the world's most incredible natural wonders from the comfort of your ship.

Devil's Island, part of French Guiana's Îles du Salut, is steeped in history and intrigue. Once a notorious French penal colony, it housed political prisoners like Captain Alfred Dreyfus. The island's dense jungle and treacherous waters made escape nearly impossible, adding to its eerie reputation. Visitors can explore remnants of the prison buildings, including cells and administration offices, which offer a sobering glimpse into the harsh conditions endured by inmates.

Beyond its grim past, Devil's Island boasts stunning natural beauty. The lush tropical vegetation and surrounding azure waters create a stark contrast to the island's history. Birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts will enjoy the island's diverse wildlife, including exotic birds and playful monkeys. A trip to Devil's Island is a journey through history and nature, offering a unique and hauntingly beautiful experience.

The capital of Tobago, Scarborough, is the economic and cultural centre of the island. The appeal of this unspoiled island lies in the beautiful scenery and the availability of outdoor activities. Ships will dock at the cruise ship terminal.

Top Things to Do in Cairns:

• visit Fort King George
• swim at Argyle Falls
• view Buccoo Reef on a glass-bottom boat
• visit a Tobago Cocoa Estate
• spend the day at a beach resort
• kayak Bon Accord Lagoon

Overlooking the Gulf of Paria, between the mountains of the Northern Range and the Caribbean Sea, is Trinidad and Tobago's capital, Port of Spain. A colourful city with a rich multicultural heritage, skyscrapers, lush gardens, and early 20th Century mansions. Ships will dock at the cruise terminal.

Top Things to Do in Port Of Spain:

• relax at Maracas Bay
• explore the Gasparee Caves
• tour the Angostura Distillery
• visit the Asa Wright Nature Centre
• kayak in the Caroni Wetland

Grenada, the Caribbean's "Isle of Spice," is renowned for producing nutmeg, mace, clove, cinnamon, and cocoa. The island's fragrant aroma envelops its emerald hillsides, tropical forests, and sun-drenched beaches. Start your adventure by snorkeling at the unique Underwater Sculpture Park, an underwater gallery of marine life and art.

For stunning views, visit Fort Frederick, then explore the lush landscapes of Grand Etang National Park. Spot sea turtles at Levera National Park and tour a spice garden to learn about the island's famous spices. For a thrilling experience, try river tubing down the Balthazar River. Grenada's vibrant culture and natural beauty make it a captivating destination.

Ships docking in St. George's, Grenada, typically arrive at the Melville Street Cruise Terminal. This terminal is conveniently located just 1 kilometer (0.6 miles) from the city center, a short 5-minute walk. St. George's is known for its picturesque harbor, historic forts, and vibrant market square.

Known as the 'City of Arches' because of the many volcanic stone archways throughout the downtown area, Kingstown is filled with old world charm and accented with rich, rolling green hills. Ships will dock at the cruise terminal.

Top Things to Do in Kingstown:

• beach hop on Bequia Island
• visit the St. Vincent Botanical Gardens
• hike up La Soufriere volcano
• sail the Tobago Cays
• taste the Caribbean's highest proof rum at St. Vincent Distillery

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.

In Castries, cruise ships dock at Pointe Seraphine or La Place Carenage. Both terminals are conveniently located within 2 kilometers (1.2 miles) of the city center, making it a quick 5-minute drive or a pleasant 15-minute walk. Pointe Seraphine is the primary terminal, featuring duty-free shops and a range of local craft stores, while La Place Carenage offers easy access to the central market.

To explore further, consider taking a taxi or a water taxi to Marigot Bay, roughly 11 kilometers (7 miles) south, about a 20-minute drive. Alternatively, arrange for a guided tour to the island's iconic Pitons, which are 45 kilometers (28 miles) away, typically a 1.5-hour drive. Local buses are also an economical way to see the island's stunning landscapes.

Bridgetown, the captivating capital of Barbados, combines faded colonial history, captivating tradition, and vivid white beaches. Stately colonial buildings intermingle with colourful wooden homes, open-air markets and catch-of-the-day cafés. Ships will dock at this port.

Top Things to Do in Bridgetown:

• ride an electric tram into Harrison Cave
• look for green monkeys in the Barbados Wildlife Reserve
• relax at the Copacabana Beach Bar
• visit the George Washington House
• go underwater in the Atlantis Submarine