From Nassau off the coast of Florida to the Dutch island of Aruba in the Southern Caribbean, the Mexican island of Cozumel in the west and Barbados sitting between the Atlantic and Caribbean, there are dozens of fantastic tropical islands and ports of call. White sand beaches, turquoise water, coral reefs, tropical breezes, rain forests and amazing history all just waiting to experience. Thinking about a cruise or vacation? Find what’s in store before you go. Select your islands below and click to find out more.
Beautiful Eagle Beach Aruba, Southern Caribbean Island
There’s almost as many unique characteristics as there are islands. Looking for miles of beaches consider Grand Turk, Grand Cayman, Nassau or Barbados to suggest a few. If history’s your interest you’ll find much to explore in San Juan, Cozumel, St. Croix and Antigua. For snorkeling over coral reefs there are fantastic options almost everywhere and duty free shopping is a Caribbean island tradition.
Select from the links below for more information on individual Caribbean islands:
George Town, Grand Cayman is a major cruise destination for Western Caribbean cruises. It is a modern town famous for good duty free shopping and offering a number of good tour itineraries. The port requires tendering but the tender pier is right in the heart of town.
George Town with tender dock on the left
The biggest attractions in Grand Cayman are focused on the beaches and the clear turquoise water with the island being a major destination for sport divers.
Transportation
There are basically three ways to get around this island:
Bus System – Cayman actually has a pretty efficient bus system with fares starting at CI$2.50 (US$3.15). The central bus terminal is located in downtown George Town.
Taxis – Taxis are readily available but like most things in Cayman can be pricey.
Rental Cars – Cars are pretty easy to arrange but can be a bit expensive. Finding your way around is pretty easy, traffic is moderate but remember they drive on the left.
Money
The Cayman Islinds have been pulling a con on the visitirs well over fifty years. They fixed the rate of exchange to the U.S. Dollar but made the Cayman Dollar 25% higher. So when you shop and everything is listed in the local currency it is actually 25% more expensive than it seems.
The Cayman Dollar is fixed at an exchange of US$1.25 to CI$1.00.The US Dollar is usually welcome )adjusted for the exchange rate) along with most credit cards and ATMs are readily available.
Local Attractions – Beaches, beaches, beaches with the centerpiece being Seven Mile Beach with its resort hotels and restaurants. The island is also a scuba and snorkeling paradise with lots of coral reefs in shallow water for great snorkeling along with a great drop-off wall for scuba diving.
Sting Ray City
Grand Cayman was the originator of the stingray tour called Sting Ray City here where you can actually walk on a shallow offshore sandbar and hand feed the stingrays that come in by the dozens..
George Town
Other attractions include:
The Cayman Turtle Center which is one of the worlds most productive Turtle farms.,The Centre is a conservation facility dedicated to the breeding and rehabilitation of sea turtles. It offers visitors the chance to swim with turtles and learn about their life cycles and conservation efforts. .Visitors can also engage in activities such as snorkeling with turtles, feeding tropical birds, and exploring fabulous aquariums that showcase Caribbean marine life.
Dolphin Discovery where you can swim with the dolphins,
Crystal Caves a stunning natural cave system in Grand Cayman, featuring impressive stalactite and stalagmite formations created over time by rainwater.
Spend some time in Hell. It;s aa gift shop with its own famous post office where you can send home cards postmarked HELL.
The tender docking area
Grand Cayman is also famous for its duty free shopping with excellent buys from diamonds to watches to luxury housewares and fashion accessories. It is also home and the originator of one of the Caribbeans best rum cakes.
Just a little over 25 miles south of the seaport of Genoa, Italy is a small peninsula that’s been a popular resort area for decades. Picturesque houses cling to the cliffs that rise from the azure Tyrrhenian Sea as people are drawn to the numerous pocket beaches. Welcome to the Italian Riviera. The charming coastal towns of Santa Margherita Ligure and Portofino provide spectacular waterfront walks, historic sites, and all the charm of the Italian seaside. Enjoy amazing seafood, upscale boutique shopping, and historic attractions.
Where Your Ship Docks
There are no large ship piers so most cruise ships will anchor offshore between Santa Margherita and Portofino and tender in. The anchorage location depends on the ships itinerary. Both towns feature good marinas with docking right in the town centers for receiving tenders.
Wheelchair Accessibility – As a tender port wheelchair bound passengers will encounter challenges both in getting on tenders as well as disembarking at the pier. Both ports have a moderate to steep geography where there are typically elevations and inclines to deal with. Otherwise wheelchair infrastructure is typical of European cities. The waterfront and near port area has moderate inclines in sidewalks but the city itself can be more difficult. Intersection crosswalks may have curbs or other wheelchair obstacles.
Transportation
Getting between the two towns has a couple of options, First there is a regular ferry that takes only 15 minutes for US$7–11. A taxi from Santa Margherita Ligure to Portofino is only 3 and a half miles, takes 6 min with fares running US$35–45. If you’re up for a hike follow the coast sidewalks/trails between Santa Margherita and Portofino with walking being about 3 miles. A great trip while you enjoy a leisurely walk with stunning views.
Genoa To Portofino
If you’re visiting or making a port call in Genoa it’s a short and very inexpensive train ride to visit Portofino for the day. From the Genoa Central Station at Genova Piazza Principe, Trenitalia train service to Portofino runs every 30 minutes. The train trip takes only 51 minutes with average fares costing US$3–5.
Local Currency
Italy uses the Euro and trying to use othe currency is not generally an option. Most credit cards are welcome and ATMs are readily available
Tipping
Tipping follows a general tipping culture similar to many European countries. Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory. If service charges are included in your bill, rounding up or leaving small change is customary. In restaurants, leaving between 5-10% of the bill is a common practice if you are satisfied with the service. Tipping tour guides is usually based on the tour cost with a few dollars being a minimum. For taxi drivers or service staff, rounding up the fare or leaving a small tip is often sufficient.
Santa Margherita Attractions
Discover the charm of the Italian Riviera in Santa Margherita Ligure. Shop in trendy boutiques and dine on delicious seafood in local waterfront restaurants. Wander through the picturesque streets and discover historic landmarks, including the Church of Santa Margherita and the charming waterfront.
Day Tours Explore various tour options such as guided tours and skip-the-line tickets that help maximize your time visiting in Santa Margherita Ligure and Portofino.
The Ferry – Take a ferry around to Portofino. Low cost and frequent service makes it easy to visit Portofino.
Castello Brown – This historic castle offers stunning views of Portofino and the surrounding area.
The Harbor – The picturesque harbor is perfect for a leisurely stroll, enjoying the vibrant colored boats and lively atmosphere.
Beaches – Sun yourself and enjoy the waters of the Italian Riviera at numerous locl beaches.
Snorkel and Scuba Dive – Santa Margherita Ligure and Portofino are great diving locations with a number of dive excursions available.
Portofino Attractions
The church of San Giorgio – builtin 1154 it has a Baroque style and the street (the San Giorgio climb) allows you to reach the church from the town’s main square. From the front of the church, are wonderful views of Portofino and the view of the promontory is spectacular.
The Abbey of San Fruttuoso – To get there you can hike the trail over Portofino mountain or take a boat to the abbey of San Fruttuoso, a thousand-year-old sanctuary. Originally a Benedictine monastery dating back to 1000 AD and later a fishing village; the Abbey of San Fruttuoso is a jewel nestled between land and sea.
Portofino Lighthouse – Active since 1910, at a height of 120 feet above the sea, the Portofino Lighthouse is located at Punta Faro, on the Gulf of Tigullio and the southern area of the Portofino Promontory,
Christ of the Abyss – Portofino is also famous for an underwater sculpture known all over the world: It’s the Christ of the Abyss, a bronze statue placed in 1954 on the seabed of the bay of San Fruttuoso, between Camogli and Portofino. Popular with sport divers it’s in the protected marine natural area. It is located about 50 feet deep it was created by the sculptor Guido Galletti.
Portofino Regional Park – Th stunning park offers breathtaking views, scenic hiking trails, and opportunities for boating and swimming along the coastline.
Before you leave take a moment and browse through some of our recent posts:
On the rugged Atlantic coast of Barbados is an area known as Bath Sheba where surfers go to catch the big waves. We have friends that have a beach house there and we usually spend a day at Bath Sheba when we visit. It is also the last stop on a Barbados bus route and for years the derelict bus pictured here sat in an open field near that last stop.
Several years ago someone put in the effort to haul it away, probably for the scrap metal.
The rugged Atlantic coast at Bath Sheba
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Ajaccio Is a city on the French Tyrrhenian Sea Island Of Corsica in the Mediterranean. Ajaccio has a lot to offer from great beaches to fine dining and a good helping of history. It is the ancestral home of Napoleon Bonaparte, and where he returned when he was sent into exile.Napoleon is a local hero where he is celebrated to this day.
Where Your Ship Docks
Ajaccio has opened a new terminal and pier right in the center of the city with a maned visitor information booth and good public facilities.
Wheelchair Accessibility
Disembarking – This port has a developed cruise ship pier adjacent to the terminal but the ease of disembarking varies by the individual ships gangway design to reach the pier. Ships disembark right into downtown, but passengers using wheelchairs may have a moderate ramp incline to deal with. The city of Ajaccio has an average wheelchair infrastructure typical of European cities. The areas above the port have moderate inclines in sidewalks. Intersection crosswalks may have curbs or other wheelchair obstacles.
Transportation
Ajaccio isn’t particularly large and is easy to walk around in. Shopping, attractions and good beaches are all relatively near. Taxis are available xxxx.
Currency
This is a French port and the Euro is the local currency. You may find that you’ll need some Euros for incidental expenses but credit cards are welcome and there are numerous ATMs available.
Tipping
Corsica follows a general tipping culture similar to mainland France. Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory. If service charges are included in your bill, rounding up or leaving small change is customary. In restaurants, leaving between 5-10% of the bill is a common practice if you are satisfied with the service. Tipping tour guides is usually based on the tour cost with a few dollars being a minimum. For taxi drivers or service staff, rounding up the fare or leaving a small tip is often sufficient.
Attractions
Ajaccio Market and Place Campinchi – This recently opened food hall is cold meats, wines, cheeses, pastries and cakes. Every day of the year you’ll find delicious dishes at the delicatessen and exceptional products on the colourful market stalls. The well-stocked fishmonger’s stall offers a fresh catch every day. Head to the Place Campinchi next to the market, where you can get a superb view of the Napoleonic quays.
National Museum: Maison Bonaparte – As you stroll the streets of the city, you can’t help but notice that many monuments and streets are dedicated to the Emperor Napoleon Bonaparte. And it’s for good reason because he was born here in Ajaccio on August 15, 1769, and spent part of his childhood here. His birthplace is now a listed historic monument and national museum. Inside visit rooms that speak of the past, including a living room, bedroom and dining room which feature period furniture. This fun and informative visit is perfect for children.
San Roccu Cathedral – The 19th century neoclassical style cathedral is located on one of the main arteries of the city. With its recently renovated roof and bell tower, it is illuminated at night and sparkles with a thousand lights.
Place du Cassone by the Ajaccians, this is where a child who would become an Emperor once played. The imposing statue of Napoleon on the square is a replica of the one at the Invalides in Paris. At his feet, there is a list of his victories and achievements.
Miollis Citadel – Long occupied by the army, the Citadel of Ajaccio, built in 1492, was ceded to the city of Ajaccio in 2019. For the first time in five centuries, it now welcomes civilians. Today it’s a creative residence and cultural venue, hosting artists, events, sound and light shows and exhibitions. Follow us to experience the sights of the Citadel.
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Barbados is one of the more popular ports of call on Southern Caribbean itineraries.
Barbados is in the Lesser Antilles, the eastern most island in the Caribbean. It is an independent British Commonwealth nation, bounded on the east by the Atlantic Ocean and on the west by the Caribbean Sea. Barbados is also a popular departure port for cruise itineraries.
This beautiful island has the highest literacy rate in the Caribbean and one of the best standards of living. In addition to the tourist based economy, Barbados has a significant manufacturing base.
Where Your Ship Docks
In Barbados cruise ships dock at the Bridgetown Cruise Terminal and free shuttles take passengers from the ships pier to the terminal building. There are lots of shops inside the terminal, public facilities and WiFi is available but not free. Walking out from the terminal is allowed and there’s a walkway into Bridgetown that runs along the waterfront and past some beautiful beaches. The distance into town center is approximately two miles. Most stores are open during the week but close at noon on Saturday and are not open on Sunday.
Wheelchair Accessibility
Disembarking – This port has cruise ship piers with a central terminal accessed by port buses so the ease of disembarking varies by the individual ships gangway designs. For passengers using wheelchairs there can be a moderate ramp incline to deal with and you will need to access buses.
Port City Area – This port has a reasonable wheelchair friendly infrastructure. The port area and nearby Bridgetown are flat with few inclines. Intersection crosswalks have few issues with curbs or other wheelchair obstacles.
Transportation
There are lots of taxies available from the Barbados cruise port area. The fares are regulated by the government but it is still important to agree on a price before the trip. The Georgetown Bus Terminal is located two blocks outside the port area, behind Pelican Village. Exact fares must be paid for bus rides and tokens can be purchased at the bus terminal. Rental cars are available but the rates are fairly steep and you will have to pay for a Barbados tourist driving license. Driving is on the left side of the road and, once you leave the city areas, many roads do not have name signs. While the main highways are modern and multi-lane, secondary roads are narrow and the major traffic intersections on the island are traffic circles and it takes some skill to get through one.
Currency
The official currency is the Barbados Dollar (BBD) but US Dollars (not coins) are widely accepted. The exchange rate is fixed at US $1.00 = BBD $2.00.
Bridgetown
Tipping
A service charge of 10% to 15% is typically added to bills at restaurants in Barbados. Additional tipping is expected but should be only a few dollars and should reflect service quality.
Attractions
The Boardwalk
Beaches! There are many beautiful beaches in Barbados but the easiest one to get to from the cruise port is Boatyard Beach on Carlisle Bay. It is about a 20 minute walk from the terminal or an inexpensive taxi ride. A fee of US$20.00 is charged to use the facilities which includes a beach chair, shared umbrella, one cocktail, WIFI and free transport back to the ship.
Mount Gay Rum Distillery (web site) in Brandons, St. Michaels offers tours Monday to Friday and sometimes on Saturday. The current fee is $20.00 which includes a presentation on the rum’s history and a tasting. Tickets can be booked online.
Harrison’s Cave
Harrison’s Cave (web site) in St. Thomas is a network of caves, waterfalls, lakes and streams approximately 170 feet below ground. Tours are offered daily for a fee. The area above ground is a good place to spot green monkeys.
The Crane Area
Earthworks Pottery (web site) is located mid island in St. Thomas Parish. It is an opportunity to view local potters at work and purchase some hand made souvenirs. Closed Sunday.
George Washington House in Bush Hill welcomes visitors Monday through Saturday. It is the only place outside the United States that George Washington ever visited.
Bathsheba on the rugged Atlantic coast (eastern shore) is a great place to see surfers and enjoy a lunch at one of the local restaurants.
Bathsheba
Black Pearl Party Cruises (web site) provides a 4 hour trip on the Jolly Roger which includes a buffet lunch, swimming, snorkeling, dancing and unlimited house drinks. The price is just under $90.00 with discounts for online booking and groups.
IMPORTANT – Do not wear camouflage clothing as it is illegal in Barbados; Only smoke in designated areas; Avoid touching or standing under the big shady Manshineel Trees as they are poisonous. Most of these trees are marked in red or banded in red. Traffic drives to the left so get in the habit of looking both ways before crossing streets.
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