7 Night Southern Caribbean Cruise

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.

What makes St. Maarten so unique is its blend of cultures. The island is home to 120 different nationalities speaking over 80 languages, and is governed by two countries: the Netherlands and France. In fact, it’s the smallest land mass in the world to be shared by two different nations. While it may be less than 40 square miles, there’s plenty to do on this little island: you can travel back in time while exploring centuries-old ruins and get your adrenaline fix ziplining through lush tropical forests. If you’re after a little rest and relaxation during your cruise to St. Maarten, you’ll find plenty of secluded beaches where you can work on your suntan before treating your taste buds to some of the best cuisine in the Caribbean.

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.

Fort-de-France is the largest city in the French West Indies— and it has personality to match. Life here is vibrant and fast-paced, and the culture is as colorful as the brightly painted shops that line the city’s cobblestone streets. Cruise to Martinique and visit the 17th century Fort St. Louis park in La Savane for a taste of local history. Or stop by the Cathedrale St. Louis, one of the city’s most iconic landmarks. If it’s beaches you’re after, Plage Anse d’Arlet is one of the island’s best. The sand here is golden, and the beach is dotted with plenty of bars and French-Caribbean fusion restaurants perfect for seaside snacks.

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.