Planning Your Western Caribbean Honeymoon Cruise

Western Caribbean cruises are the most popular selection among cruise travelers, including honeymooners. The swaying palm trees, pristine blue waters, and gorgeous white sand beckon to millions of tourists every year.

Western Caribbean Cruise Lines

Western Caribbean cruises are available throughout the entire year because the region has such a temperate climate. From April to October, however, Western Caribbean cruises are particularly packed because of spring breaks, summer vacations, and honeymooners. Therefore, if you are looking for a bit more tranquility, you might want to choose your wedding day and subsequent cruise for a time outside of these peak months. In addition, you might be able to save a little money if you take your Western Caribbean cruise during the off-season without having to sacrifice the excitement of the island adventure.

Hurricane season is another factor to keep in mind. From June 1 to November 30, you run the risk of having your Western Caribbean cruise cancelled or delayed if there is a threat of hurricanes. Therefore, you might want to avoid these months for your honeymoon cruise in order to reduce the chances of it being cancelled.

Most Western Caribbean cruises last anywhere from four to ten days, depending on the number of destinations. Since Western Caribbean cruises are so popular, they are offered by all of the major cruise lines, including Royal Caribbean Cruise Line, Carnival Cruise Line, Celebrity Cruise Line, Holland America Cruise Line, Princess Cruises, Norwegian Cruise Line, Disney Cruise Line, and Radisson Seven Seas Cruises.

Western Caribbean Cruise Ports

With Western Caribbean cruises being so popular, there are numerous embarkation ports to choose from, such as:

• Miami, Florida – Miami is the cruise capital of the world and offers dozens of ships from multiple cruise lines every week.
• Port Canaveral, Florida – Port Canaveral is located along the central eastern coast of Florida and is a great port for those wishing to spend some time in Orlando before sailing off.
• Fort Lauderdale, Florida – Fort Lauderdale is located near to Miami and offers many of the same options at a slower pace.
• Jacksonville, Florida – Jacksonville is a newer embarkation port offering a limited variety of cruises, but it is more convenient than the southern Florida ports.
• Tampa, Florida – Tampa is located along Florida’s western coast and makes for a great embarkation port for a Western Caribbean cruise.
• New Orleans, Louisiana – New Orleans provides an alternative to Florida ports with a Cajun flair.
• Galveston, Texas – Galveston provides a convenient port location for those living in western states and offers both long and short itineraries.
• Mobile, Alabama – Mobile has a limited Western Caribbean cruise options.
• Baltimore, Maryland – Baltimore offers longer itineraries and limited sailings, but is more convenient for those in the northeastern United States.

A Western Caribbean cruise can offer a number of ports of call. Popular ports include:

• Cozumel – This small island located off the Yucatan Peninsula is a favorite for partiers that also offers extensive shopping centers, cultural tours, and nightlife fun.
• Key West – This U.S. port of call offers a blend of southern culture and island relaxation. Snorkeling, historic tours, and diving are popular activities.
• Belize City – The world’s largest concentration of Mayan ruins is located in this city, as well as the second largest coral reef.
• Costa Maya – Located slightly south of Cozumel, this city is full of rich culture, Mayan history, and world-renowned scuba diving and snorkeling opportunities.
• Jamaica – This island is the third largest in the Caribbean and is one of its most popular destinations. Dunn’s River Falls, which is a 600 foot tiered fall, is located here, as well as reggae festivals, rainforests, and shopping opportunities.
• Grand Cayman – This island provides unique tours, including a Turtle Farm that raises endangered seas turtles.

A Western Caribbean cruise offers extensive shopping opportunities, unique cultural insights, and beautiful beaches and reefs, making for a perfect honeymoon cruise.