Whether you're hoping to set sail on the open seas or go port-to-port visiting the region's most enchanting destinations, consider these five luxury cruises for an ultimate Caribbean honeymoon experience.
Star Clippers Cruises
Perfect for couples seeking sleek, state-of-the-art sailing vessels instead of mammoth cruise liners, Star Clippers boasts three of world's tallest and largest sailboats. Meanwhile, the line also stands out with its "private yacht" atmosphere and ability to reach desired ports often unavailable to larger cruise ships.
On the Royal Clipper, choose from 14 deluxe suites featuring whirlpool tubs, private verandahs, and 24-hour room service. The ship, which is 439 feet in length and has 42 sails, also offers a three-level dining room, piano bar, plus spa and health club. Seven and 10-day excursions are currently available and take guests to exotic ports such as Dominica, St. Lucia, Guadeloupe, Barbados, and the British Virgin Islands.
Seabourn Cruises
With six ships carrying a capacity of just 104 or 225 suites, Seabourn Cruises offers an intimate experience yet still features a smorgasbord of activities and options. The Seabourn Legend is noted for its all-suite accommodations and award-winning dining guided by celebrity chef Charlie Palmer, plus a "Sky Bar", pool, spa, casino, library, show lounge, boutique shopping, and water sports marina. Popular shore excursions include culinary tours, snorkeling adventures, deep-sea fishing, and zip-lines.
One favorite itinerary is the seven-day "Caribbean Hideaway" journey, which takes guests to gorgeous, but often less-visited destinations like St. Barts, St. Kitts, Antigua, and Prickly Pear Island in the British Virgin Islands. Meanwhile, seven-day excursions range from $2,480 to $2,899 per person for ocean-view suites.
SeaDream Yacht Club
Expect five-star service yet a casual and relaxed atmosphere through SeaDream Yacht Club. The cruise line offers contemporary ships with a maximum of 112 guests and a crew of 95, plus an all-inclusive fare that covers ocean-view accommodations, gourmet meals, gratuities, wine with lunch and dinner, and open bar. Take comfort in retiring each night to your stylish cabin, where amenities include a fully stocked fridge, entertainment center, Internet access, and marble-lined bathrooms.
A continued passenger favorite consists of a private beach picnic complete with a champagne and caviar "splash." No matter where in the Caribbean you're hoping to visit, SeaDream will likely have an itinerary just right for you. Highlighted ports of call include Nevis, Netherlands Antillies, St. Barts, Tortola, Norman Island, Puerto Rico, Barbados, Saint Lucia, and the U.S. Virgin Islands.
Celebrity Cruises
Elegant and sophisticated, Celebrity reaches 35 Caribbean ports and has 42 unique itineraries that guests can choose from. Meanwhile, an endless activities list awaits, like nightly broadway-inspired shows, casino games, dance clubs, and shopping. The dining scene particularly stands out for Celebrity, offering upscale spots, casual cafes, and buffets.
Guests on the Reflection cruise ship often find themselves at "The Lawn Club", a meticulous half-acre of real grass where they can practice their putting, play a round of croquet, or go for a relaxing picnic. As for accommodations, the Sunset Veranda rooms feature 32-inch LCD televisions and floor-to-ceiling sliding glass doors. All the while, suites come with whirlpool tubs, walk-in closets, butler service, and DVD players.
Crystal Cruises
Newlyweds in search of unique activities and enrichment services will be instantly gravitated towards Crystal Cruises. The luxury line features a number of options, including music lessons, wellness seminars, language classes, golf clinics, yoga and Pilates sessions, wine tasting, Tai Chi, and a Feng Shui-inspired spa. Consider one of Crystal's themed cruises. For instance, one cruise offers a digital filmmaking course where professionals teach guests how to prepare, shoot and edit their own travel videos.
Room amenities are highlighted by flat-screen televisions, private balconies, a sitting area with sofa, plus butler service. One notable excursion is the "Tropical Enchantment" Cruise, which starts at $3,490 per person for a 10-day cruise. Destinations include Costa Rica, Panama Canal, Curacao and the Dutch West Indies, St. Maarten, St. Thomas, and Miami.
Heading to Europe for a cruise instead? Be sure to read about our top European cruises.
Cover photo courtesy of Star Clipper Cruises. Inside photo courtesy of SeaDream Yacht Club.