What Is Considered "Southern Caribbean"?

The islands in the West Indies that border South America form what is considered to be Southern Caribbean territory. St. Kitts and Barbuda are the northernmost islands in this region, though some Southern Caribbean cruises also stop as far north as the Virgin Islands.

What Islands Make Up the Southern Caribbean?

• Antigua and Barbuda
• Aruba
• Barbados
• Bonaire
• Curacao
• Dominica
• Grenada
• Martinique
• St. Kitts
• St. Lucia
• St. Vincent and the Grenadines
• Trinidad and Tobago

Which Cruise Line Is Best for the Southern Caribbean?

While most big cruise lines, including Carnival, Norwegian, and Royal Caribbean, offer Southern Caribbean cruises, there aren't many ships that can go to every one of these beautiful ports. Smaller ships can travel to smaller ports on more remote islands; fleets such as Celebrity, Seabourn, Crystal, Silversea, and Regent Seven Seas have vessels that offer Southern Caribbean itineraries.

Top lines with Southern Caribbean cruise deals include:

• Carnival
• Celebrity
• Disney
• MSC
• Norwegian
• Royal Caribbean
• Seabourn

Tips for Traveling the Southern Caribbean Islands

• Consider a tour from a local carefully. A local guide can help you get off the beaten path and in touch with the best destinations and local culture, but they definitely expect payment for their services. Do some research ahead of time to determine whether you need a tour guide and how much it may cost. Southern Caribbean cruise deals may already include excursions as part of the experience or as an easy add-on.
• Don't forget to add a tip when you visit a restaurant. Tipping on board may be included in the cruise cost, but if you visit a restaurant in port, remember to add an extra 15 percent for your waiter if you're happy with the service, assuming that a service charge hasn't already been added to the bill.
• If you like foreign products, make sure to check out shopping opportunities in port. Dutch and French islands will have great deals on imported goods.
• If you use a cab for a shore excursion, make sure to ask for a receipt immediately after paying them. Some drivers may try to scam passengers by claiming later that you haven't paid.

When Is the Best Time of Year to Visit the Southern Caribbean?

Peak season for visiting the Southern Caribbean is December through April. The temperature stays pretty moderate all year, so you don't have to worry about weather unless you plan to avoid hurricane season (June through November). The best Southern Caribbean cruise deals are offered in late summer and early fall.

No matter when you choose to travel, CruiseDirect can help you secure the most savings possible. Contact us now to connect with a cruise expert and book your dream voyage!