The Caribbean is a great place to experience a cruise and it’s easy to see why it’s one of the most popular cruise destinations!
With consistently warm weather, convenient departure ports, beautiful colonial architecture, historic towns, lush rainforests, and many unforgettable small islands, some of the best things you can experience in the Caribbean can be easily accessed on a cruise ship.
Meet Explora Journeys
Explora Journeys is the new luxury lifestyle travel brand launched by the MSC Group in Geneva, Switzerland with the ambition to redefine the luxury cruise category. A uniquely different, new style of transformative ocean travel will inspire exploration in all its forms, all with a spirit and style of vibrant, cosmopolitan and relaxed European luxury.
With the first of six luxury cruise ships scheduled to set sail in July 2023, remarkable itineraries will blend renowned destinations with lesser-traveled ports for a journey that celebrates discovery. These are enriching holidays for the curious, cosmopolitan traveler who wants to create connections that last long beyond the journey itself.
Explora Journeys promises exclusive access far beyond the classic luxury cruise experience; whether that’s treading the cobbled streets of Europe’s hallowed capitals and exploring the ancient Acropolis, navigating the crystalline cool of the Norwegian fjords and sailing in the shadows of Svalbard’s soaring cliffs, or savoring French chic in Saint Barths, lolling beneath Hawaiian waterfalls or soaking up the sun-kissed shores of Brazil’s buzzing Buzios.
The Best Time To Go On a Caribbean Cruise
The Caribbean is a dream destination for many travelers, with its beautiful beaches, turquoise waters, and vibrant culture. One of the best ways to experience the beauty of the Caribbean is by taking a cruise. But when is the best time of year to go on a Caribbean cruise?
The most popular time to go on a Caribbean cruise is during the winter months of December to April. This is considered the peak season for Caribbean cruises, as many travelers from colder regions of the world escape to the warmth of the Caribbean. This is also the time of school holidays when people are traveling on their spring break as well as other major holidays, like New Year and Christmas. The peak season is also a great time for water-based activities such as snorkeling, scuba diving, and water sports, as the water visibility is excellent and the marine life is abundant.
However, the peak season also means higher prices, larger crowds, and more crowded ports of call. If you prefer a more relaxed and budget-friendly experience with fewer people, the shoulder seasons of late spring (May to June) and early fall (September to October) can be a great time to go on a Caribbean cruise. The weather still provides warmer temperatures, and the prices are usually lower than during the peak season. Plus, you may find fewer crowds at popular attractions and enjoy a more intimate and tranquil cruising experience.
November
The Explora Journeys cruise we are highlighting departs on November 3rd sailing until the 17th
November can be a fantastic time to go on a Caribbean cruise for several reasons. While it falls within the rainy season in some parts of the Caribbean, including the Eastern Caribbean, November is generally considered a shoulder season, offering unique advantages for cruisers.
Weather
One of the main reasons why November is a great time for a Caribbean cruise is the weather. The hurricane season in the Caribbean officially ends on November 30th, which means that the risk of encountering a hurricane or tropical storm is significantly lower compared to the earlier months of the season. The weather in November is typically warm and pleasant, making it a perfect escape from colder climates.
Shoulder Season
Another advantage of cruising in November is that it falls outside of the peak season for Caribbean cruises, which means that you’ll experience fewer crowds at ports of call compared to the winter months allowing you to enjoy a more relaxed and intimate cruising experience.
Water Activities
November can also be an excellent time for water-based activities in the Caribbean Sea. The waters are generally calm and clear, making it an ideal time for snorkeling, scuba diving, and other water sports. The marine life is abundant, and you can have the opportunity to spot sea turtles, colorful fish, and other fascinating creatures.
EXPLORA I
The EXPLORA I is the first ship in the Explora Journeys fleet. This cutting-edge ship will expertly combine elegant Swiss precision with contemporary European craftsmanship and vibrant design. It was meticulously created with the guest’s relaxed and home-like comfort in mind.
Thanks to their floor-to-ceiling windows and private terraces, the 461 oceanfront suites, penthouses, and residences make guests enjoy feeling closer to the sea and in port. The smallest suites on a luxury cruise will be 377 sq ft, which puts them among the largest in the luxury cruise category.
The fourteen decks have plenty of indoor public space, maximizing guest choice and providing areas of peaceful seclusion and privacy. With 64 private cabanas spread across 3 outdoor pools, and spacious outdoor decks that measure almost 27,000 square feet. These decks will provide breathtaking sea views! A fourth pool will allow for swimming and poolside relaxing in all weather thanks to its retractable glass canopy.
Flexible meal times at nine different restaurants will offer fine dining and unmatched diversity at sea, tailored to individual interests. Each venue will showcase the best international chefs, with an emphasis on fresh, nutritious ingredients that are sustainably acquired from local suppliers. Numerous indoor and outdoor bars and lounges will also be available for guests to unwind and relax, giving them a wide variety of options.
Explora Journey’s love of the water serves as the inspiration for the well-being experience on board, which includes a sizable indoor/outdoor spa and fitness centre. With personalized programming, staying healthy while on vacation is simple and pleasant. They include treatment rooms, cutting-edge fitness equipment, group exercise classes, and personal training appointments. Relaxation and renewal will be simple to reach both onboard and ashore thanks to customized wellness experiences at each location.
Explora Journeys Caribbean Itinerary
Extended Escapes into a Yachtsman’s Caribbean
With Explora Journey, sail through the Caribbean on winds fragrant with orchids while you navigate a sea of sensory overload. Call on eccentric Key West and Virgin Gorda with heads full of dreams and sing, play, fall in love with and dance in turquoise waves. In Antiqua and Anguilla, discover stunning coastlines lined with pinkish-white beaches, amethyst bays, and shell-crusted shipwrecks. Learn about San Juan’s artistic and creative side, along with its 400-year history of swashbuckling. Take in the splendour of St. Barths and then travel to St. Kitts and the Dominican Republic to find pristine beaches and emerald mountains. Ocean Cay Marine Reserve, a private island paradise that ecologically and spatially fulfills the impossibility of environmental luxury, welcomes you with sensory seas. Experience once-in-a-lifetime shore excursions, including trips to the Everglades, Key Biscayne, and seductive South Beach, begin upon our return to Miami.
14 Night/15 Days Itinerary
Let’s take a closer look at Explora Journey’s amazing Caribbean itinerary.
Day 1 – Miami, United States
Welcome to Miami and the vast South Beach, which serves as the setting for all famous Miami films and the epicentre of Latin American culture. Wander through the art deco district’s geometric buildings painted in pastel hues before arriving at Wynwood Walls to view magnificent graffiti murals. Experience Latino culture in Little Havana, the core of this magnificent city, where walk-up windows sell Hatuey beer, guava ice cream, sweet sugarcane juice, and café cortadito. Watch enthusiastic locals play dominoes, talk politics, and puff on cigars. Take a salsa class, browse designer shops, sail on a speedboat and keep an eye out for marlins and sharks. Then take it more slowly to discover the outdoor sanctuary of Everglades National Park’s rare and endangered wildlife.
Day 2 – Key West, United States
At the end at Florida’s southernmost tip is Key West, where you can experience a truly relaxed way of life. Closer to Cuba than Miami, these tiny coral reefed islands are well-known for their history, culture, fishing, cuisine, and colorful homes. Surf, snorkel, go shopping, and take part in a private seafood tasting. Take the Old Town Trolley tour, explore Hemingway’s quirky former home, explore the Butterfly & Nature Conservatory’s collection of over 50 different butterflies, and see leggy flamingos strutting their stuff.
Day 3 – Sailing at Sea
AT SEA
Day 4 – Sailing at Sea
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Day 5 – Spanish Town (Virgin Gorda), British Virgin Islands
Enter a peaceful tropical hideaway with clear waters, coral reefs, and sandy beaches. Take it easy while you browse, swim, snorkel, and sip in the tranquility of the sand, sea, and sky. Sit back on a safari bus excursion, take a dip in a seaside boulder-forming pool at The Baths, marvel at the magnificent villas strewn across the Great Mountain or simply get some sun on a catamaran.
Day 6 – Deshaies, Guadeloupe
Take a stroll around the sheltered harbor, which is teeming with restaurants, Creole homes, and a cosmopolitan crowd. Take a stroll to Grande Anse’s lovely golden dunes and the wonderful botanical garden with its gorgeous plants and ponds to experience the best of Guadeloupe. Visit the Cocoa House to experience the rich history of dark chocolate, climb La Grande Dame at La Soufriere, trek to waterfalls, and visit the Christopher Island bird refuge. You will love this laid-back fishing community with its coconut trees, preserved wildlife, and slow pace of living.
Day 7 – St. John’s Antigua and Barbuda
You’re in for an adrenaline rush! Enjoy a stingray swim, zipline through lush jungles, and cross a gorge on a scenic suspension bridge. Savour finely aged rums, explore the island’s culinary scene with a chef, wander the charming fretwork-adorned homes in St. John’s Old Town, and discover British forts on Goat Hill and Shirley Heights. Then, with VIP reservations at one of Anguilla’s snow-white beaches, you can relax and recharge while sipping rum drinks on a comfy lounger.
Day 8 – San Juan, Puerto Rico
Learn about Caribbean history, Spanish culture, and the American dream by exploring the oldest US city. Explore the historic Old San Juan narrow streets to see colorful colonial structures and centuries-old forts. Learn how to move as locals sashay to rhythmic reggae beats while dancing the salsa. Shop for hand-rolled cigars, luxurious designer products, and artisan goods in lavish boutiques. Explore a tropical rainforest, experience world-class surfing, partake in a private rum cocktail tasting, and eat delicious empanadas. Then retire to one of the stunning beaches for one final rum cocktail and to enjoy the clear waters.
Day 9 – Gustavia, Saint Barthé
Wander along perfect, untouched beaches, past Creole huts by the harbor, into bohemian bars, and gently snorkel in warm, turquoise waters. Take a boat ride to visit La Tourmente, serene salt ponds, and take in stunning, panoramic views. Sip on champagne and listen to the gently crashing waves.
Day 10 – Basseterre, Saint Kitts – Nevis
Reach Mount Liamuiga’s highest summit by trekking through miles of rainforest filled with vibrant wildlife. Go on a train ride, try out sailing, take a cooking class, visit sugarcane farms and Brimstone Hill Fortress for spectacular views of neighboring islands, a UNESCO world heritage site, ride a zip-lining through the sky, or participate in batik fabric workshops. Experience breathtaking views all throughout this small but charming island.
Day 11 – Sailing at Sea
AT SEA
Day 12 – Samaná, Dominican Republic
Explore this paradise of golden beaches surrounded by breathtaking mountains and infused with vibrant Hispanic culture. Take a local culinary class, go snorkeling, sail, sunbathe or trek along picturesque pathways in lush hillsides. Pick up the pace to discover little Latino communities, the Mangrove Forest, and the caves of Los Haitises National Park by speed boat or on a quad bike. Plunge into sugar-white sands and crystal-clear waters, relax, and revitalize with freshly cracked coconut water.
Day 13 – Sailing at Sea
AT SEA
Day 14 – Ocean Cay, Bahamas
Enter a real-life Bahamian fantasy. A retreat to this island marine reserve is arguably the most sought-after invitation in the entire world. Swim, paddleboard, or slowly cruise a boat in the azure waters. Marvel at marine life and nature in their natural environment, and visit the marina, lighthouse, lagoon, and pastel-colored buildings. Enjoy a relaxing massage on the beach, a leisurely lunch and endless rum drinks, and relax in the pristine, snow-white sands cooled by the gentle sway of palm trees.
Day 15 – Miami, United States
Your journey comes to an end in Miami.
A great way to experience the Caribbean is on a cruise vacation! Visit multiple popular destinations while only having to unpack once, cruising is a really good idea if you want to visit different islands or explore unique places most people don’t get to experience. With Explora Journeys, you’re bound to experience sunny days, cruising at the perfect time and personalized experiences, that other cruise lines don’t offer.
ARE YOU READY TO PLAN YOUR CARIBBEAN CRUISE WITH EXPLORA JOURNEYS?
When you’re ready to book your next travel plan, contact one of our Tier One Travel consultants. They will find the perfect place for your next vacation and will craft something incredible that is suited to your unique needs and will make sure your travel plans will be as stress-free as possible.
One call; endless experiences!
“Travel is the only thing you buy that makes you richer.” – Anonymous
