7 Night Southern Caribbean Cruise

Charlotte Amalie is one of the world’s most beautiful harbors; blue waters peppered with sailboats and green hills dotted with quaint little cottages make for post-card perfect brags. Just outside the lively port town, you’ll find ribbons of powdery sand beaches dotted with hammocks. Cruise to St. Thomas and explore colonial landmarks like Blackbeard’s Castle or raise a pint of the local lager at quaint microbreweries. And when it’s time to fuel up, you’ll find plenty of beachside bars serving conch fritters, johnnycakes, and coconut patties. St. Thomas may technically be part of the U.S., but with its colorful markets, unspoiled beaches, and the ever-present sound of steel drums, you’ll feel a world away.

The largest of the British Virgin Islands, Tortola is known for its shimmering beaches, oleander and hibiscus-covered mountainsides, and quaint towns tucked along coves— all of which are bouncing back after an active hurricane season in 2017. This early home to Blackbeard and Captain Kidd maintains its salty pirate legacy and rum-making traditions today. And adventure is a constant, whether you choose to wander the international capital city of Road Town or charter a boat in the sailing capital of the world. Get lost in melodic Bamboula drumming when you cruise to the Virgin Islands. Or hop on a ferry to discover the neighboring islands of Virgin Gorda, Anegada or Jost Van Dyke.

Greens in every shade spring from the rolling hills of St. Kitts— an island ripe with eco-tourism adventures. In the port city of Basseterre, you’ll find centuries of history to explore in impressive estates and photo-worthy monuments like the Brimstone Hill Fortress, one of the best preserved military structures in the Americas. Cruise to St. Kitts & Nevis and venture beyond the port and gear up for a unique climb up the 3,792-foot Mount Liamuiga volcano for views well worth the hike. Or hop in a kayak to get up close with a rainbow of tropical reef fish. Looking for something a little more laidback? Escape to the tiny unhurried sister island, Nevis, for smooth golden beaches and clear-water snorkeling— it’s just a thirty minute ferry ride away.

Antigua has a beach for every day of the year— literally. But the island experience goes beyond 365 distinct ribbons of white sand and clear waters. In the capital city of St. John's, you’ll discover charming candy-colored architecture, lively markets, and a beautiful baroque cathedral. And smiling locals greet you everywhere you go. On the southern coast, you can explore Nelson’s Dockyard, a centuries-old British naval base built by Admiral Horatio Nelson. Past Antigua’s yacht-studded coastline, you’ll find upscale boutiques, wild forest trails, hidden coves, and coral reefs bustling with tropical fish. But the best way to really see the island is from up above, so cruise to Antigua and hop into a helicopter for a panoramic look at lush jungles, golden beaches, and the nearby volcanic island, Montserrat.

You’ll find Bridgetown strikes a fine mix of island warmth and English heritage. Stately colonial buildings intermingle with colorful wooden homes, open-air markets, and catch-of-the-day cafes. Outside of the bustle of “Town,” as the locals call it, Barbados is a new kind of paradise in any direction. Cruise to Barbados and head towards the shore for pink-and-white-sand beaches that stretch on endlessly and crystal clear turquoise waters. Or stick to the center of the island, you’ll find rolling hills and valleys, sugarcane fields and historic plantations. You can even travel underground to discover limestone caves with their own waterfalls.