10 Night Ultimate Southern Caribbean

Fort Lauderdale lies along the Atlantic Ocean at the mouth of the New River, 25 miles north of Miami. Its warm tropical weather attracts many people throughout the year. For sun-worshippers, the city has six miles of beaches. There are also many recreational waterways with extensive boating facilities, access to every conceivable watersport, a variety of fascinating museums and trendy restaurants, and an array of entertainment venues.

When the Spanish closed their colonial fort on St. Maarten in 1648, a few Dutch and French soldiers hid on the island and decided to share it. Soon after, the Netherlands and France signed a formal agreement to split St. Maarten in half, as it is today. Philipsburg displays its Dutch heritage in its architecture and landscaping. The island offers endless stretches of beach, beautiful landscapes and great shopping.

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.

Whether you're a history buff or just want to take in the scenery, be sure to visit the 350-year-old estate, Romney Manor, once owned by a British earl. The beautiful grounds include magnificent gardens, exotic plants and an amazing African Saman tree, which covers half an acre and is believed to be as old as the estate itself.

Fort Lauderdale lies along the Atlantic Ocean at the mouth of the New River, 25 miles north of Miami. Its warm tropical weather attracts many people throughout the year. For sun-worshippers, the city has six miles of beaches. There are also many recreational waterways with extensive boating facilities, access to every conceivable watersport, a variety of fascinating museums and trendy restaurants, and an array of entertainment venues.