11 Night Southern Caribbean Intensive

One of the largest islands in the Eastern Caribbean, Puerto Rico's landscape encompasses mountains, underground caves, coral reefs, white-sand beaches and an incredibly massive rain forest that supplies fresh water to most of the island. At the same time San Juan, the capital of the commonwealth, is a big city with a bustling business district, glitzy resorts and casinos, as well as one of the most stunning examples of colonial life in the Western world.

From the moment you set your eyes on St. George's, you'll see why it's considered one of the most picturesque ports in the Caribbean. Lush vegetation, mountainous terrain and colorful colonial architecture make up the landscape. And if the sights don't wow your senses, the aroma will. Grenada is also filled with spice trees and is a leading source of many different spices, including nutmeg, cloves, ginger, cinnamon and cocoa.

For the ultimate day of fun-in-the-sun Barbados-style, cruise on the MV Harbour to a spectacular sandy beach. Snorkel on reefs teeming with tropical fish. Enjoy the rope swing, sun tanning or walking on the beach. Cruise back along the scenic coast while dancing the calypso or limbo, or just relax on deck.

On cruises to St. Vincent, this magical island and the chain of the Grenadines will quickly captivate you. From the bluest waters for swimming and snorkeling to a harrowing history of occupations and ever-changing hands, the capital of Kingstown has a fascinating past that’ll keep you enthralled during a stop on a Southern Caribbean cruise. St. Vincent doesn’t feel touristy like some island destinations. Of course, there are the beaches you’d come to expect in this part of the Caribbean, but there’s something different about St. Vincent. Perhaps it’s that civilization on the island was established on top of active volcanoes, or its unique attractions like the St. Vincent Botanical Gardens or the stunning Trinity Waterfalls beyond the city. Of course, there’s plenty of duty-free shopping and local markets to keep shoppers entertained, but Kingstown is also deeply committed to preserving its rich history. While you’re here, don’t miss the chance to try breadfruit or the official regional dish, fried jackfruit.

When your Caribbean cruise docks in Fort-de-France, the capital of the French territory of Martinique, you’ll quickly be swept up by the city’s energy and natural beauty, which alternates between crystal-blue waters and laid-back beaches to dense, tropical rainforest. Whether you’re touring a distillery and sipping authentic local rum or hiking the lush trails of Martinique Natural Regional Park, the Fort-de-France area offers just enough to do without being overwhelmed by the options. Feeling like doing nothing on your cruise to Martinique? Post up on the beach with an umbrella. Want to step back in time to French colonial occupation in the Caribbean? Walk the expertly-preserved grounds of the ruins of Chateau Dubuc. Hungry for Creole cuisine, crab cakes, or octopus stew? Martinique’s foodie scene is adventurous without being too frou-frou. Whatever your mood, Martinique will rise to meet you there.

Access the largely untouched interior of Dominica via an extensive network of nature and hiking trails, which will take you on an odyssey through the lush landscape past waterfalls, clear-running streams, and bubbling hot springs. If you'd prefer swimming to hiking, try the world-class scuba diving.

One of the largest islands in the Eastern Caribbean, Puerto Rico's landscape encompasses mountains, underground caves, coral reefs, white-sand beaches and an incredibly massive rain forest that supplies fresh water to most of the island. At the same time San Juan, the capital of the commonwealth, is a big city with a bustling business district, glitzy resorts and casinos, as well as one of the most stunning examples of colonial life in the Western world.