8 Night Western Caribbean Cruise

Caribbean charm shines in the Bahamian capital, where you’re never more than a few steps away from rhythmic percussions, appetising flavours, white-sand beaches and some of the clearest waters in the world. This picture-perfect paradise was once a pirate’s haven – and you can explore its colourful past of buccaneers, blockade-runners and bootleggers along historical streets and at the three colonial fortresses that line the shores. If you’re looking for a more hands-on maritime adventure, look no further. Cruise to Nassau and swim with stingrays, dive with dolphins or spot colourful coral on a glass-bottomed boat. And just across the bridge is beautiful Paradise Island, home to world-famous luxury hotels and resorts. Spend the day at the famous Atlantis and splash your way through its expansive water park, grab a piña colada at the Marina Village and spot the hammerhead sharks in Predator Lagoon.

Grand Cayman is where the high life meets island life. This international banking haven is as much known for award-winning beaches as for the flocks of celebrities and high rollers that frequent them. You can sip Cayman Mama’s while rubbing shoulders with the global glitterati. During your Grand Cayman cruise, you can snorkel with stingrays in Stingray City. Treat your inner foodie at eateries established by acclaimed top chefs like Michael Schwartz, or chow down on conch fritters by the seashore. You can even soak up some rays at one of the beaches voted best in the world, Seven Mile Beach. And do it all in the same day.

With its lush tropical rainforests, pearly shores and cascading waterfalls, it’s no wonder Ocho Rios boomed from a small fishing village into Jamaica’s cruise ship capital. But don’t worry, the port maintains its laid-back vibe and sense of adventure. Cruise to Ocho Rios and climb to the top of the famous Dunn’s River Falls or go on an off-roading adventure in the jungle. Or go rafting on one of Ocho Rios’ famous rivers – there are 120 of them. Secluded and rich in natural beauty, it’s one of Jamaica’s true gems.

The ‘Mayan Coast' of Mexico takes its name from the ancient civilisation that flourished here from 250-900 AD. The Mayans were very advanced, making great discoveries about astronomy and mathematics, and inventing an extremely accurate calendar, but they vanished almost overnight. All that remains is their ruined cities, pyramids and sculptures - fascinating clues to an enduring mystery.