SAMPLE ITINERARY

There is a wide choice of Caribbean cruises – this is one sample itinerary, so ask us for advice on the right cruise itinerary for you. All pre- and post-cruise arrangements can be tailor-made to your needs.

Day 1: Fly to Bridgetown

Today fly from London to Bridgetown in Barbados, a Commonwealth country that offers a truly magnificent Caribbean holiday experience.

You will be met at the airport and transferred to your hotel on the south coast.

Days 2 to 7: Barbados

The next few days are free to relax on the beautiful island of Barbados, with its endless pink-and-white-sand beaches and crystal-clear turquoise waters. Oistins is a bustling fishing town, where you can enjoy fresh fish, sample some local rum and sway to irresistible calypso music. St Lawrence Gap, also on the south coast, is the nightlife capital of the island, buzzing with bars, live music and restaurants.

The western Platinum Coast has attracted the rich and famous for years, with palm-fringed white sandy beaches lapped by millpond waters, aquamarine bays, sophisticated hotels, world class restaurants and a tropical interior. The fashionable beaches of St James is where you’ll find the crème de la crème of luxury hotels and restaurants. The main town is historic Holetown, which was the first settlement in Barbados.

The rugged east coast feels like a completely different island, with its Atlantic breakers that draw in the surfers. At Bathsheba you can take in the dramatic scenery as turbulent waves pound the beaches.

Historic Bridgetown is the capital, with a well preserved Old Town dating from the 17th century. The Bridgetown Garrison is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that is well worth exploring. You can also see the Parliament buildings here and shop at an array of duty-free shops and local stalls that sell just about everything.

Located in the north of the island, Speightstown offers a unique view of the architectural heritage of Barbados. Spend half a day browsing the shops, visiting the art gallery or eating at one of the many great restaurants.

Sea turtles bob along the waves and schools of colourful fish swim in the lagoon, while on land the botanical gardens offer tropical sights, sounds and smells. You can absorb the grace and elegance of historic plantation houses, or board the Atlantis submarine. Cricket is the national sport and polo is played to a very high level, with several clubs dotted about the island. Barbados is also wonderful for golf, particularly at secluded Sandy Lane. A short drive from the west coast, but a world away from its hustle and bustle, Royal Westmoreland is another golfer’s paradise.

When it comes to Barbados, you will never be hungry. You can dine on the freshest seafood at world-famous eateries like The Cliff, Cin Cin by the Sea and Lone Star, followed by a locally brewed Banks beer or Mount Gay rum cocktail. Lively but laid-back, Barbados is also an island for music lovers. Whether you’re a mellow music lover, or want to party the night away, a mix of steel drums, soca and the annual Jazzfest offer something for everyone.

Day 8: Embark on Cruise

This afternoon embark on your Caribbean cruise.

After settling into your cabin, explore your ship and discover its superb facilities including swimming pools, many leisure facilities and entertainment.

Day 9: Tobago

We dock early today in Scarborough, on the tiny island of Tobago. This Caribbean gem has a north coast full of secluded coves, whilst the south coast has incredible snorkel and dive sites, including Buccoo Reef, Flying Reef and Bon Accord Lagoon. Pigeon Point in the southwest has one of the finest beaches on the island with colourful reefs to explore just offshore, and sun-seekers will appreciate the lounge chairs and umbrellas available for hire. There’s a boardwalk here, ideal for selfies!

Laid-back Scarborough is the perfect jumping off point to explore the island, but it also offers plenty of ways to while away the day, such as strolling through its botanical gardens, a visit to Fort King George, or a delicious meal of curry crab and dumplings at a charming open-air cafe.

Day 10: Trinidad

We disembark today at Port of Spain, the capital of Trinidad. This pulsing Caribbean city revels in Creole culture and boasts a party scene that peaks during one of the world's greatest carnival celebrations in late February, featuring calypso and soca music, and the beat of steel pans.

Maracas Beach is one of the prettiest in Trinidad, with warm waters protected by a deep bay and a shore lined with gently swaying coconut trees. It is located on the north coast of the island, about an hour from Port of Spain. The Maracas Lookout offers stunning views.

Fort George is a centuries old fortress, offering beautiful views over the Gulf of Paria. You can also visit the lovely botanical gardens, picturesque churches and bustling marketplaces.

Day 11: Grenada

We spend today at St. Georges on the tranquil spice island of Grenada. A former British colony, Grenada is mountainous and volcanic, offering spectacular beauty and Caribbean charm away from the crowds. It has an unspoiled landscape of dramatic crater lakes, waterfalls, gorges and lush tropical rainforests, as well as historic villages and a colourful culture.

St George's is a pretty harbour town with 18th century architecture, narrow winding streets and impressive forts such as Fort George, with its panoramic views over the island. You can stroll through the 125 year old Sendall Tunnel to reach the Carenage waterfront promenade.

The 2 mile Grand Anse Beach, with its white sands and aquamarine waters flanked by green hills, is the most impressive on Grenada. You can also explore the world's first underwater sculpture park.

Grand Etang National Park in the mountainous interior has many scenic hiking trails that meander around the island's tallest peaks and dazzling Grand Etang Lake, an extinct volcanic crater. You can also swim in the Seven Sisters waterfall.

Day 12: St. Vincent

Today we disembark in Kingstown on the island of St. Vincent. This island is mostly rainforest and is still gloriously unspoiled, with hiking trails through lush tropical vegetation, a sleepy culture and only a smattering of luxury hotels.

In Kingstown you can visit Fort Charlotte, explore the beautiful botanical gardens, view charming 19th century churches and stroll through the lively produce market. In the northwest you can hike to the picturesque Dark View Falls. Alternatively relax on one of its secluded white sand beaches lapped by sparkling waters, and snorkel among vibrant coral reefs.

Day 13: Dominica

We spend today on the island of Dominica, an unspoiled hidden gem, with mountainous peaks and valleys swathed in lush rainforest and waterfalls.

The capital of Roseau has a stunning setting between the Caribbean Sea and the mountains. Tiny and charming, it showcases Creole architecture from the 18th century. Although you can walk the entire town in about an hour, we recommend taking a leisurely stroll to get a much better feel for the place. See Fort Young Hotel, an 18th century fort built by the British, tour the Dominican Museum, walk along the Bay Front Sea Wall and view chattering native parrots at the local bird sanctuary. You can visit the 19th century cathedral, the museum and the botanical garden, then feast on fresh lobster and drink Kubuli (a local beer). You can also browse the markets, with the sounds of reggae drifting down the streets.

Morne Trois Pitons National Park is the only UNESCO World Heritage Site in the Caribbean. It is home to hot springs, tropical rainforest, deep valleys, freshwater lakes, Morne Trois Pitons volcano and the eerie steam-covered Boiling Lake, heated by its volcanic surroundings. Other natural wonders include the Trafalgar Falls, reaching a height of 65 metres, as well as the spectacular Titou Gorge.

Day 14: St. Lucia

We disembark at Castries today, on the island of St. Lucia. Bringing together both British and French influences, St. Lucia is dominated by the twin Pitons (Gros and Petit) - two towering volcanic mountain spires draped in lush rainforest. This strikingly beautiful tropical island is a haven for nature lovers and those seeking luxury, with many pretty beaches and coves set against the dramatic backdrop of the Pitons.

St. Lucia’s busy capital city of Castries is one of the most beautifully positioned in the Caribbean, with a large deep harbour surrounded by undulating hills. About 8 miles south you’ll find Marigot Bay, one of the most stunning bays in the Caribbean, sheltered by palms and surrounded by hills. Used in the movie Doctor Dolittle, and a former pirate hideout, it is well worth visiting by land or yacht. You can also tour the island's only remaining rum distillery near here.

Further south, Soufriere is a deep-water harbour that sits at the base of the twin Pitons. Not too far away is the Soufriere Volcano from which the town derives its. You can visit the sulphur springs, see wild birds, orchids and ferns, and take an exhilarating canopy zip-wire over some of these remarkable sights. Another great way to admire the stunning scenery of the legendary twin Pitons is on an unforgettable helicopter ride.

Day 15: Disembark in Bridgetown & fly home

Disembark early this morning in Bridgetown and transfer to Barbados airport for your flight home.

PRICING

Price is based on two adults sharing an en-suite cabin on a full board basis all inclusive in Barbados). Economy flights from London are included.

Please note that onboard payments on most cruises will be taken in US dollars, and all cruises and cabin classes are subject to availability.

It is essential that you have personal holiday insurance. The FCO should also be consulted.

We offer a wide choice of cruises at different prices - with different ships, durations and itineraries - so do call us to discuss your requirements.