9 Night Eastern Caribbean Cruise on Serenade of the Seas from Tampa, Florida Colorful and paradisaical Frederiksted, the heart of St. Croix
The 9 Night Eastern Caribbean Cruise from Tampa, Florida visits San Juan, Puerto Rico; Philipsburg, St. Maarten; St. Croix, U.S. Virgin Islands; Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic; Tampa, Florida. Explore our cruise itineraries and choose from a variety of rooms depending on your needs and budget. Start planning your next cruise vacation by selecting a destination and departure port.
Royal Caribbean Cruises
Priced from: $1038.32 per person 3 sailing dates available
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9 Night Eastern Caribbean Cruise
Itinerary Overview
Explore Serenade of the Seas
Day 1 - Tampa, Florida
Day 2 - 3 - Cruising
Day 4 - San Juan, Puerto Rico
Day 5 - Philipsburg, St. Maarten
Day 6 - St. Croix, U.S. Virgin Islands
Day 7 - Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic
Day 8 - 9 - Cruising
Day 10 - Tampa, Florida
View Itinerary
Colorful and paradisaical Frederiksted, the heart of St. Croix
Colorful and paradisaical Frederiksted, the heart of St. Croix
This is your

9 Night Eastern Caribbean Cruise

Explore This Itinerary
Leaving from
Tampa, Florida
Onboard
Serenade of the Seas
Day Port
1
Tampa, Florida
Departs at 4:00 PM
2 - 3
Cruising
Day at sea
4
San Juan, Puerto Rico
From 12:30 PM - 8:00 PM
5
Philipsburg, St. Maarten
From 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM
6
St. Croix, U.S. Virgin Islands
From 7:00 AM - 3:00 PM
7
Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic
From 11:59 AM - 7:00 PM
8 - 9
Cruising
Day at sea
10
Tampa, Florida
Arrives at 7:00 AM
*Port sequence may vary by sailing date.
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Sailing from {{ overview.startDate }} (+ {{ additionalDatesCount }} Additional Dates)
Taxes & fees included.*

Your ship Serenade of the Seas

Your ship
Serenade of the Seas
View Itinerary
Serenade of the Seas Cruise Ship, Side View, European and Caribbean Destinations
Side View of Serenade of the Seas Cruise Visiting Bermuda, Norwegian Fjords, Scandinavia
Get to know
Serenade of the Seas
From poolside movie nights and jaw dropping entertainment, to game changing flavors prepared to please your palate, all paths lead to discovery onboard Serenade of the Seas®.

BANISH BOREDOM FOR GOOD

Panoramic vistas aren't all you'll find on this ship. Get active on the Rock Climbing Wall or with a game of mini golf. Head to Vitality℠ at Sea Spa and Fitness Center to break a sweat or indulge in some "me time." And a giant poolside movie screen means plenty of opportunities to unwind outside.

NEXT LEVEL NOSHING

Craving something delicious? You've come to the right place. Serenade of the Seas® is brimming with far out flavors, like tantalizing Tuscan fare at Giovanni's Table, steaks seared to perfection at Chop's Grille℠ and five-courses of incredible at Chef's Table. For the perfect glass of wine, Vintages has your back.

PEAK PERFORMANCES

As the day winds down, the night heats up with dazzling productions by world-class performers. Whether it's all the hits from Broadway and the Big Screen in Stage to Screen, or remixed classics in Vibeology, you're definitely in for a show.

Day 1: Tampa, Florida

Day 1
Tampa
Florida
View Itinerary
Downtown Skyline Sunset, Tampa, Florida
Downtown Skyline Sunset, Tampa, Florida
Things to do in
Tampa
Departs at 4:00 PM
Pirates once plundered the shores of Tampa Bay, but today this swashbuckling city attracts beach seekers, outdoor enthusiasts and museum lovers alike. Its low-key beach vibe blends seamlessly with its glistening downtown atmosphere— and there’s no shortage of thrills for all ages. Explore Ybor City’s cigar-rolling history or brave rollercoasters at Busch Gardens. Kayak along the Hillsborough River past sunning alligators, and see the elusive Florida panther at the Lowry Park Zoo. Geek out at the Museum of Science & Industry’s domed IMAX Theater— or browse Florida Cracker exhibits at Tampa Bay History Center. Tampa cruises allow you to discover a treasure trove of adventures, from the beach to the bay.

CULTURE FIX

Stroll along the Tampa Riverwalk and see where it leads you. You might explore interactive exhibits at the Tampa Bay History Center, or go stand-up paddleboarding from the Sail Pavilion. Tampa Museum of Art’s collections range from ancient to modern— and the Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park is home to splash fountains, a playground and skyline views.
Insider tip
The vintage, air-conditioned TECO Line Streetcar can transport you between downtown Tampa, Channelside and Ybor City, with 11 stations along a 2.7-mile line. Tickets can be purchased at the stations.
Girl Running to the Beach, Tampa, Florida
Girl Running to the Beach, Tampa, Florida

HIT THE SAND

A short 30-minute drive west of downtown lands you along the Gulf of Mexico coast, which is fringed by a string of sugary beaches. Clearwater Beach and St. Pete Beach both offer an upbeat seaside atmosphere, while Caladesi Island State Park and Fort DeSoto Park provide serene shoreline settings.
Coral Underwater, Tampa, Florida
Coral Underwater, Tampa, Florida

SEA WATCH

Enter the Florida Aquarium to encounter over 20,000 species of aquatic plants and animals. Cruise to Tampa and see river otters on the Florida Wetlands Trail and ring-tailed lemurs on the Journey to Madagascar. Then say hello to goliath grouper, stingrays, reef fishes, sea turtles and sharks in the Bays & Beaches habitat.
Local Cuisine Cuban Sandwich, Tampa, Florida
Local Cuisine Cuban Sandwich, Tampa, Florida

LOCAL CUISINE

Tampa’s food scene stems from a fusion of Cuban, Spanish, Italian and Floribbean influences. Local raw bars serve up fresh shrimp, oysters, scallops and grouper from the Gulf of Mexico. The Cuban sandwich— piled with Genoa salami— is a city signature. For a taste of authentic Florida Cracker cuisine, try sofkee porridge, pilau (rice cakes) or fried alligator tail during your next Tampa cruise.
Shopping Purses, Tampa, Florida
Shopping Purses, Tampa, Florida

SHOPPING

Pick up tropical apparel and Florida-inspired souvenirs at the outdoor Channelside Bay Plaza, right at the port. Head to Hyde Park Village for upscale boutique stores, and stop in local sportswear outfitter Salt Pines. Nothing beats Ybor City when it comes to quirky vintage stores and hand-rolled cigars.

Day 2 - 3: Cruising

Day 2 - 3
Cruising
At Sea
View Itinerary
Young Woman Climbing
Young Woman Climbing Up the Rock Wall
PLAY ANY WAY YOU LIKE
Father and Son Playing Basketball On Board
Father and Son Playing Basketball in the Sports Court

Sports Court

Whether it's a game of one-on-one or an all-out tournament to fuel your competitive fire, our Sports Court is just the spot for basketball and volleyball action.
Navigator of the Seas Adventure Ocean
Girl Playing with Dolls at Adventure Ocean

Adventure Ocean®

“Are we there yet?” is a thing of the past. We keep every kid entertained with games, events, age-appropriate activities and more in our award-winning youth program.
Solarium Sunset Whirlpool
Solarium Sunset Whirlpool

Solarium

Slip away to this adults-only indoor and outdoor retreat. The Solarium is your slice of paradise, with soothing whirlpools, warm sunshine and a refreshing water mist.
Vitality Spa Woman Relaxing
Vitality Spa Woman Relaxing

Spa & Fitness Center

A luxurious sanctuary offering signature treatments, medi-spa services, and a full-service salon to make you glow from the inside out. Browse our spa menu for pricing.

Day 4: San Juan, Puerto Rico

Day 4
San Juan
Puerto Rico
View Itinerary
Sunset View from Atop El Morro Fortress in San Juan, Puerto Rico
Sunset View from Atop El Morro Fortress in San Juan, Puerto Rico
Things to do in
San Juan
From 12:30 PM - 8:00 PM
Puerto Rico’s 500-year-old capital is a history buff’s dream come true. The Spanish settled this harbor as a New World home base, and that influence is still evident, from the fortress walls lining the coastline to the rainbow of colonial buildings along narrow streets. Venture further out from the old town and nature unfolds. You can scale high into the jungled mountains of El Yunque Forest, or keep to the foothills on a riverside horseback ride. If despacito is more your speed, pick a pristine beach and recline with codfish fritter and rum drink in hand. San Juan cruises give you the perfect outpost to dial up or dial down your vacation.
Woman Leaning on Fort El Morro to Enjoy the view, San Juan, Puerto Rico
Woman Leaning on Fort El Morro to Enjoy the view, San Juan, Puerto Rico

CASTILLO DE SAN FELIPE DEL MORRO

Strong and beautiful, this fort has helped guard the shore for nearly five centuries while overlooking some of the island’s best scenery. Explore it via spiral staircases between levels, and grab a photo at one of the iconic garita sentry boxes that line the outer walls.
Insider tip
The free, open-air trolleys in Old San Juan are a great way to see the city’s top sites.
Bautista Cathedral Closeup, San Juan, Puerto Rico
Bautista Cathedral Closeup, San Juan, Puerto Rico

CATEDRAL DE SAN JUAN BAUTISTA

Founded in 1521, this can’t-miss landmark is one of the oldest churches in the Americas. It houses the tomb of Spanish explorer Ponce de Leon and the mummified remains of religious martyr St. Pio.
Insider tip
Wear comfortable walking shoes. The cobblestoned streets in Old San Juan can be steep and uneven.
Puerto Rico Mofongo Shrimp
Puerto Rico Mofongo Shrimp

Local Cuisine

In Old San Juan, you’ll find plenty of island fare and criolla cuisine— home cooking flavored by Spanish and African influences. Try some mofongo, mashed fried green plantains often stuffed with meat, or snack on some codfish fritters, called bacalaitos.
Colorful Architecture Road., San Juan, Puerto Rico
Colorful Architecture Road., San Juan, Puerto Rico

Shopping

During your San Juan cruise, head to the blue-hued cobblestone streets of Old San Juan for your pick of boutiques offering handmade lace and hand-rolled cigars, plus duty-free luxury items like diamonds, gemstones and watches.

Day 5: Philipsburg, St. Maarten

Day 5
Philipsburg
St. Maarten
View Itinerary
Sandy Blue Beach Sailboat, Philipsburg, St. Maarten
Sandy Blue Beach Sailboat, Philipsburg, St. Maarten
Things to do in
Philipsburg
From 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM
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.
Philipsburg Loterie Farm, Philipsburg, St. Maarten
Philipsburg Loterie Farm, Philipsburg, St. Maarten

LOTERIE FARM

Loterie Farm is a nature sanctuary with 135 acres of hiking trails, a zip line adventure course, and a spring fed multi-level pool with cascading waterfalls..
Insider tip
A service charge is sometimes included at Dutch side restaurants, but you may wish to add 15% if the service was especially good.
Cityscape at the Great Salt Pond, Philipsburg, St. Maarten
Cityscape at the Great Salt Pond, Philipsburg, St. Maarten

SIMPSON BAY LAGOON

The largest saltwater lagoon in the Caribbean, Simpson Bay is a great spot for lounging and watching the boats and yachts that dot its picturesque harbor.
Insider tip
In restaurants on the French side, it is customary to leave a cash tip of 5-10%.
Girl Horseback Riding with a View of the Ocean, Philipsburg, St. Maarten
Girl Horseback Riding with a View of the Ocean, Philipsburg, St. Maarten

MOUNT CONCORDIA

Hike to the top of Mount Concordia, which marks the border between the French and Dutch sides of the island, for the best views of both sides
Enjoying a Relaxing, Seaside Lobster Lunch, Philipsburg, St. Maarten
Enjoying a Relaxing, Seaside Lobster Lunch, Philipsburg, St. Maarten

Local Cuisine

This gourmet capital of the Caribbean serves a mix of French, East Indian and island flavors. Cruise to St. Maarten and stop by a roadside barbecue stand (called a lolo) and enjoy lobster grilled on split-metal drums. Or dine on stuffed crab and cod fritters at any local cafe. Be sure to try some guavaberry liqueur, made exclusively on the island.
Shopping Stores, Philipsburg, St. Maarten
Shopping Stores, Philipsburg, St. Maarten

Shopping

Head to Front Street in Philipsburg, the capital of Dutch St. Maarten, and shop your way down a mile of duty-free stores. Before you go, pick up some famous guavaberry liqueur at the Sint Maarten Guavaberry Company.

Day 6: St. Croix, U.S. Virgin Islands

Day 6
St. Croix
U.S. Virgin Islands
View Itinerary
Wave Crashing Against Rocks on a Sunny Day in Frederiksted Beach, St. Croix, U.S. Virgin Islands
Wave Crashing Against Rocks on a Sunny Day in Frederiksted Beach, St. Croix, U.S. Virgin Islands
Things to do in
St. Croix
From 7:00 AM - 3:00 PM
The largest of the U.S. Virgin Islands, St. Croix has it all— gorgeous natural scenery begging to be explored, and quaint colonial towns perfect for wandering. It used to be nicknamed the ‘Garden of the Antilles’ because of its lush fields of sugarcane— and its sugar mills dating back to the 18th century are still popular spots. But these days, it’s world-class dive sites like Salt River Canyon, powdery beaches like Cane Bay, and rainforests teeming with tropical wildlife that keep people coming back. Plus, award-winning rum of course. Cruise to St. Croix and discover plenty of Victorian Dutch architecture and charming colonial churches in Frederiksted and Christiansted.
Cruzam Rum Distillery, St. Croix, U.S. Virgin Islands
Cruzam Rum Distillery, St. Croix, U.S. Virgin Islands

GET YOUR RUM ON

Taste your way through the history of rum on St. Croix as you tour the Captain Morgan and Cruzan Rum distilleries, where you’ll learn about the process of making the Caribbean’s favorite spirit.
Insider tip
If you’re planning to go swimming, make sure you bring something to cover up with. Walking around town and entering stores wearing only a bathing suit is frowned upon.
Canon Fort Frederik, St. Croix, U.S. Virgin Islands
Canon Fort Frederik, St. Croix, U.S. Virgin Islands

FORTIFIED FINDS

Check out the hard-to-miss yellow brick Fort Christiansvaern in Christiansted for a vivid history lesson— it’s the best preserved Danish-built fort in the Virgin Islands. You can also visit an art gallery and several historical exhibits in Frederiksted’s Fort Frederik.
Insider tip
In most restaurants and cafes, a 10 to 15% service charge is automatically included, but you may wish to leave an additional tip if service was especially good.
A View of Buck Island from Point Udall, St. Croix, U.S. Virgin Island
A View of Buck Island from Point Udall, St. Croix, U.S. Virgin Island

A BETTER POINT OF VIEW

Point Udall is the easternmost point in the United States. It’s about a half-hour drive from Christiansted, but well worth the journey— once you arrive at the rocky bluff, you can wander up a paved road to the overlook for the best views on the island.
Conch Fritters, St. Croix, U.S. Virgin Islands
Conch Fritters, St. Croix, U.S. Virgin Islands

LOCAL CUISINE

St. Croix’s culinary scene is as diverse as its landscape. Stop in at any small local eatery and you’ll find fresh seafood dishes, like Cruzan Style Gundy (balls of ground herring and spices), that nod to French, Thai and Dutch cuisine— with plenty of West Indian spice and favorites like conch fritters. You’ll also find boardwalk bars serving traditional American fare, like hamburgers with rum punch.
Tropical Shirts, St. Croix, U.S. Virgin Islands
Tropical Shirts, St. Croix, U.S. Virgin Islands

SHOPPING

There’s no shortage of interesting dive shops in either Christiansted or Frederiksted. But the best places to shop in St. Croix are the duty-free shops offering jewelry, liquor, clothing and souvenirs.

Day 7: Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic

Day 7
Puerto Plata
Dominican Republic
View Itinerary
Dominican Republic Puerta Plata Marina Aerial
Dominican Republic Puerta Plata Marina Aerial
Things to do in
Puerto Plata
From 11:59 AM - 7:00 PM
Puerto Plata is the Dominican Republic's oldest city in the north and a tourism pioneer. Nestled by the ocean with a mountainous backdrop, the city offers a lively pier, which is known as the Malecon, colorful shops, and opulent homes from the 1800s. The city is famous for Parque Independencia (also known as Parque Central), a park fringed by royal palms and Victorian architecture. In Puerto Plata, you can hop on a cable car for sky-high views, take a tour of the local cacao farms, and buy some of the clearest amber in the world.

View from the Top

Monte Isabel de Torres is about 2,600 feet above sea level and crowned by a statue of Christ. Head to the stunning botanical gardens or enjoy the hiking trails. Feel like a ride? Take a cable car to the very top of the mountain for panoramic views.
Insider tip
Visit Cabarete, known as the kitesurfing capital, to give this water sport a try.
Dominican Republic Sosua Beach Sunny Day
Dominican Republic Sosua Beach Sunny Day

Sosua Beach

One of the most popular beaches in Puerto Plata, Sosua is a stretch of fluffy sand with gorgeous transparent waters ideal for swimming and snorkeling. There are also several busy restaurants and bars nearby to enjoy after your time on the beach.
Insider tip
You can explore Monte Isabel de Torres on your own.

Casa de Cultura

La Casa de la Cultura is a three-story Victorian house and home to the local arts — don't miss out on all of the events and exhibits that take place here. It has a contemporary art gallery, a library and a store which sells local art and books.
Insider tip
See Charcos de Damajagua, which is composed of 27 waterfalls with canyons.
Dominican Republic Fish Coconut Milk
Dominican Republic Fish Coconut Milk

Cuisine

Order a nice plate of la Bandera, a meat stew with rice, beans, and fried plantains. And if you're looking for fruits of the sea, try a saucy Pescado con coco (fish in coconut sauce).
Dominican Republic Amber Balls Local Shopping
Dominican Republic Amber Balls Local Shopping

Shopping

Puerto Plata is famous for the production of the oldest, most translucent amber in the world and you can set those amber stones in any type of jewelry, taking a piece of Puerto Plata with you. There's also plenty of shopping in Playa Dorada, which is a complex stocking bottles of mamajuana (a local drink), beachwear and local fruits.

Day 8 - 9: Cruising

Day 8 - 9
Cruising
At Sea
View Itinerary
Chops Grille Rosemary Steak Juicy
Chops Grille Rosemary Steak Juicy
LET THE FLAVOR FEST BEGIN
Park Cafe's Kummelweck Sandwich
Close-Up of Famous Kummelweck Sandwich with Pickles

Park Cafe

In the mood for deli classics that knock it out of the park? Head to Park Café, where you’ll find quick bites to please every palate. Crisp made-to-order salads? Check. Fresh-pressed paninis and sandwiches? Double check. And don’t miss the legendary Royal Kümmelweck roast beef sandwich — it’s a guest favorite (and a rite of passage for cruising foodies).
Chef's Table Dessert
A dessert at Chef's Table on Royal Caribbean cruises

Chef's Table

Welcome to Chef’s Table, the most exclusive and elevated dining experience on our fleet. Join an intimate group of fellow foodies on a private epicurean journey led by the ship’s Chef de Cuisine. You’ll sit down to a white tablecloth dinner spotlighting five exquisite courses that range from scallop carpaccio with yuzu vinaigrette, to grilled filet mignon served with truffle potato puree — each expertly paired with the perfect wine to highlight every flavor on the menu.
Cafe Promenade Croissant and Coffee
Cafe Promenade Croissant and Coffee Close Up

Café Latte-tudes

When you find yourself craving a steaming hot cuppa, Café Latte-tudes has just what you need. From a nice breakfast blend to get you going to an after-dinner cappuccino or macchiato, you’ll find all your favorite sweets and specialty coffee beverages at this cozy cafe.
Main Dining Room Mother and Daughter Soup

Main Dining Room

In the Main Dining Room, you can experience flavors that take you from Jamaica to Jaipur, a rotating menu of delicious dishes always offering something unexpected. A multi-level restaurant that in the morning is the perfect spot to enjoy a hearty brunch paired with refreshing mimosas, at dinnertime transforms into a world class dining experience with a menu that invites you to taste your way around the world course by course.

Day 10: Tampa, Florida

Day 10
Tampa
Florida
View Itinerary
Yellow Trolley, Tampa, Florida
Yellow Trolley, Tampa, Florida
Things to do in
Tampa
Arrives at 7:00 AM
Pirates once plundered the shores of Tampa Bay, but today this swashbuckling city attracts beach seekers, outdoor enthusiasts and museum lovers alike. Its low-key beach vibe blends seamlessly with its glistening downtown atmosphere— and there’s no shortage of thrills for all ages. Explore Ybor City’s cigar-rolling history or brave rollercoasters at Busch Gardens. Kayak along the Hillsborough River past sunning alligators, and see the elusive Florida panther at the Lowry Park Zoo. Geek out at the Museum of Science & Industry’s domed IMAX Theater— or browse Florida Cracker exhibits at Tampa Bay History Center. Tampa cruises allow you to discover a treasure trove of adventures, from the beach to the bay.

CULTURE FIX

Stroll along the Tampa Riverwalk and see where it leads you. You might explore interactive exhibits at the Tampa Bay History Center, or go stand-up paddleboarding from the Sail Pavilion. Tampa Museum of Art’s collections range from ancient to modern— and the Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park is home to splash fountains, a playground and skyline views.
Insider tip
CityPASS gives you entrance to top city attractions like Busch Gardens, the Florida Aquarium, Lowry Park Zoo and more, all for one package price of $106 for adults and $96 for kids— and it’s good for 9 consecutive days.
Girl Running to the Beach, Tampa, Florida
Girl Running to the Beach, Tampa, Florida

HIT THE SAND

A short 30-minute drive west of downtown lands you along the Gulf of Mexico coast, which is fringed by a string of sugary beaches. Clearwater Beach and St. Pete Beach both offer an upbeat seaside atmosphere, while Caladesi Island State Park and Fort DeSoto Park provide serene shoreline settings.
Coral Underwater, Tampa, Florida
Coral Underwater, Tampa, Florida

SEA WATCH

Enter the Florida Aquarium to encounter over 20,000 species of aquatic plants and animals. Cruise to Tampa and see river otters on the Florida Wetlands Trail and ring-tailed lemurs on the Journey to Madagascar. Then say hello to goliath grouper, stingrays, reef fishes, sea turtles and sharks in the Bays & Beaches habitat.
Local Cuisine Cuban Sandwich, Tampa, Florida
Local Cuisine Cuban Sandwich, Tampa, Florida

LOCAL CUISINE

Tampa’s food scene stems from a fusion of Cuban, Spanish, Italian and Floribbean influences. Local raw bars serve up fresh shrimp, oysters, scallops and grouper from the Gulf of Mexico. The Cuban sandwich— piled with Genoa salami— is a city signature. For a taste of authentic Florida Cracker cuisine, try sofkee porridge, pilau (rice cakes) or fried alligator tail during your next Tampa cruise.
Shopping Purses, Tampa, Florida
Shopping Purses, Tampa, Florida

SHOPPING

Pick up tropical apparel and Florida-inspired souvenirs at the outdoor Channelside Bay Plaza, right at the port. Head to Hyde Park Village for upscale boutique stores, and stop in local sportswear outfitter Salt Pines. Nothing beats Ybor City when it comes to quirky vintage stores and hand-rolled cigars.

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