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Family on beach in St. Thomas.
Family on beach in St. Thomas.

Caribbean Cruises

Out Here, It’s Always Island Time.

The moment you set sail for The Caribbean, everything feels lighter. The tropics invite you to let go and we recommend you accept their invitation. Drift through the turquoise waters of The Bahamas to our private island, Great Stirrup Cay. Stroll the unspoilt beaches of the Virgin Islands and hike to sweeping views of the Dominican Republic. Every stop delivers unique experiences – from the colourful Dutch influences of Aruba to the lush jungles of Belize. Each day offers a new view, a new mood and the freedom to choose exactly what you want to do. Whether it’s chilling poolside in a cabana, exploring a charming village or snorkelling off shore, you’ll find the very best version of yourself out here.

HIGHLIGHTS

 

  • Award-winning cruise line with decades of experience sailing the Caribbean.
  • Exclusive access to Great Stirrup Cay, NCL's private island in The Bahamas.
  • Wide range of Caribbean cruises, from short getaways to weeklong sailings.
  • Eastern, Western and Southern Caribbean itineraries visiting a variety of islands.
  • Sail aboard our newest and most innovative ships, including Norwegian Aqua®, Norwegian Luna™, and Norwegian Prima®.
  • Onboard experiences found only on Norwegian Cruise Line, including the Aqua Slidecoaster and the only race tracks at sea.
  • World-class dining, entertainment, spa and immersive onboard activities designed for every type of traveler.
  • Trusted by millions of guests and known for delivering exceptional Caribbean cruise vacations year after year.
  • First cruise line to have a megaship sail to the Caribbean.

Recent Awards

Best Cruise Line for Families

Best Cruise Line for Families

Imagine Yourself on a Caribbean Cruise

Experience a different kind of holiday on a Caribbean cruise with NCL, where turquoise waters, bright sunshine and warm sea breezes await just outside your door. Spend your days ashore exploring vibrant islands, snorkelling coral reefs and discovering colourful coastal towns. As you hop between islands, you’ll enjoy every minute onboard – from race tracks and waterslides to live entertainment, award-winning dining and a world-renowned spa. Laid-back island vibes, zero to-do lists and dinners set against glowing sunsets make every moment feel carefree. Watch the video and see why, out here, paradise belongs to you.

Caribbean Cruise Destinations for Every Type of Traveler

NCL's cruises to the Caribbean let you island hop across multiple tropical destinations on one unforgettable vacation. With so many colorful ports to explore, you can find a region that brings your dream vacation to life. In the Eastern Caribbean, discover natural wonders, idyllic beaches, and iconic island escapes. In the Western Caribbean, explore lush jungles, cascading waterfalls, and ancient Mayan ruins. In the Southern Caribbean, experience European influences, vibrant cultures, and incredible underwater adventures. Caribbean vacations are ideal for first-time cruisers and seasoned travelers alike.

Great Stirrup Cay

Eastern Caribbean Cruises

Discover pristine beaches, turquoise waters and a private island paradise on an Eastern Caribbean cruise. Enjoy rich culture and stunning mountain views in St. Thomas, lush landscapes and natural wonders in Tortola, and spot humpback whales in Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic. History awaits in St. Kitts — like Brimstone Fortress, and San Juan — Puerto Rico’s colourful capital and the second oldest city in the Americas. And spend a day living the great life on our private island, Great Stirrup Cay.

Tulum Ruins, Mexico

Western Caribbean Cruises

Adventure and excitement await at every stop on a Western Caribbean cruise. Snorkel crystal-clear waters in Roatán, explore ancient Mayan ruins in Costa Maya, discover Cozumel's world-famous reefs and eco-adventures, or escape to Harvest Caye in Belize —NCL's exclusive island destination —for sun-soaked beaches and tropical fun. From unforgettable excursions to rich cultural discoveries, no two days are ever the same.

St. Thomas - Megan's Bay

Southern Caribbean Cruises

Discover a different side of the tropics on a Southern Caribbean cruise. Explore the colourful Dutch heritage of Aruba and Curaçao, browse lively markets in Grenada, and admire the rolling hills, lush landscapes, and marine wonders of Antigua and Barbados. With immersive itineraries designed for discovery, experience the local flavours, cultures, and unforgettable scenery that make each island unique.

Great Stirrup Cay – Norwegian Cruise Line’s Private Island Paradise

Discover Great Stirrup Cay, NCL’s private island in The Bahamas, exclusively reserved for our guests. Just steps from the ship, enjoy a tropical retreat featuring white-sand beaches, private cabanas, a heated pool, complimentary dining, bars and lounges, a waterpark, and endless ways for all types of travelers and families to both relax and play. From snorkeling one of the world’s best reefs and ziplining over the island to swimming with pigs or simply soaking up the sun with a cocktail in hand, this private paradise is a signature highlight of the Norwegian Cruise Line experience.
Great Stirrup Cay

Featured Itineraries

NCL’s Caribbean cruises offer endless ways to experience an ideal tropical getaway, from short escapes to immersive island-hopping adventures. Each region — Eastern, Western, and Southern Caribbean — offers sailings that combine magical sea days with unforgettable shore excursions, pristine beaches, marine adventures and distinct island cultures. Select itineraries also include a visit to our exclusive private island in The Bahamas, Great Stirrup Cay. With sailings ranging from 3 to 14 days, departing from ports across Florida, the Northeast, and beyond, it’s easy to find your perfect getaway.

Shore Excursions With NCL

The Only Battery Required Is The Sun.

Adventure doesn’t stop at the dock. With NCL’s Caribbean excursions, you get smooth sailing from ship to shore. Snorkel the Virgin Islands, chase waterfalls in the Dominican Republic, explore Belize’s jungles, admire pastel architecture in the Dutch Caribbean, or relax on our private island, Great Stirrup Cay in The Bahamas. Every tour is carefully selected while real-time coordination keeps you right on schedule, so you can make the most of every sun-drenched moment.

How Long Should You Cruise the Caribbean?

The best Caribbean cruise length depends on what kind of getaway you’re looking for, but 5- to 7-day sailings are ideal for experiencing the islands without feeling rushed. These itineraries offer the perfect opportunity to visit multiple destinations, enjoy unforgettable shore excursions, relax on beautiful beaches and discover the unique character of each port. Short Caribbean cruises are perfect for quick getaways and busy schedules, while longer 9+ day Caribbean itineraries open the door to more island-hopping adventures, additional ports and immersive experiences like NCL Cruisetours. With a range of sailing lengths and flexibility both onboard and ashore, it’s easy to find an NCL Caribbean vacation that fits everyone's schedule, travel style and vacation goals.

View Cruises

Why a Caribbean Cruise Is One of the Best Tropical Vacations?

A Caribbean cruise makes it easy to experience multiple tropical islands, beautiful beaches and vibrant cultures in one seamless vacation. Instead of coordinating hotels, transportation needs and travel plans, you can unpack once and enjoy a variety of Caribbean destinations and excursions, all while dining, entertainment and activities are included onboard.

  • Visit multiple tropical islands in one vacation.
  • Experience a mix of beautiful beaches, vibrant cultures and outdoor adventures.
  • Balance onboard activities and relaxation with unforgettable shore excursions.
  • Options for families, couples and groups alike.

What Makes NCL's Caribbean Cruises Different

NCL's award-winning Caribbean cruises give you the freedom to experience the islands your way, with a wide variety of itineraries, multiple departure ports and the flexibility to personalize your vacation. Whether cruising with kids, as a multi-generational family, in a couple, or as a solo traveler, NCL ensures a seamless Caribbean vacation from start to finish. Explore destinations across the Eastern, Western and Southern Caribbean, with itineraries designed around unforgettable shore excursions, relaxing sea days and opportunities to experience each island’s unique character. Enjoy exceptional dining and entertainment onboard, spacious accommodations and exclusive access to Great Stirrup Cay, NCL’s private island in The Bahamas. With a wide range of sailing lengths and convenient departures from Florida and beyond, Norwegian Cruise Line makes it easy to find the Caribbean cruise vacation that’s right for you.

Departure Ports

With NCL, the Caribbean is an easy cruise away, thanks to a variety of convenient departure ports across Florida and other major U.S. cities. Whether you’re looking for a quick tropical getaway or a longer island-hopping vacation, NCL’s extensive departure options help simplify travel and maximize your vacation time, with less time spent getting there and more time enjoying your tropical getaway. NCL offers frequent Caribbean cruises from Miami, Orlando (Port Canaveral) and Tampa, as well as additional departures from Galveston, Jacksonville, Boston, New Orleans and Philadelphia.

Set Sail on Your Next Caribbean Adventure With Norwegian Cruise Line

Whether you're dreaming of a quick escape or a longer island adventure, Norwegian Cruise Line makes it easy to explore more of the Caribbean on one seamless adventure. Visit breathtaking beaches, charming towns, and ecological wonders across the Eastern, Western and Southern Caribbean, including exclusive stops at Great Stirrup Cay, our private island in The Bahamas. With convenient departure ports, flexible itineraries and an award-winning onboard experience, finding your perfect tropical vacation has never been easier. Explore our Caribbean cruises and start planning your next unforgettable getaway today.

Floating in Great Stirrup Cay.

Frequently Asked Questions

What destinations do Caribbean cruises visit?

Caribbean cruises visit a variety of islands and countries including the US & British Virgin Islands, Cayman Islands, Aruba, Curacao, St. Kitts, St. Lucia, Barbados, Dominican Republic, St. Maarten, Puerto Rico, Antigua, The Bahamas, Belize, Jamaica, Mexico and Honduras.

When is the best time to take a Caribbean cruise?

The most popular time to cruise the Caribbean is December through April, when weather is warm and humidity is low. But the beauty of the Caribbean is that you can cruise year-round. April & May offer beautiful weather with fewer crowds, while summer is often the most convenient time for families on school holidays. Fall is considered a "shoulder" season so you can find great deals — Southern Caribbean cruises are particularly popular this time of year.

How long are Caribbean cruises?

Caribbean cruises range from quick, 4 to 5-day getaways to longer, 7 and 8-day holidays.

What is Great Stirrup Cay?

Great Stirrup Cay is Norwegian Cruise Line's private island in The Bahamas, available exclusively to NCL guests. The island features a heated pool, white-sand beaches, complimentary food & dining, a waterpark, cabana rentals, ziplining and more.

Which Caribbean cruise is best for first-time cruisers?

For first-time cruisers, a quick 4 or 5-day Caribbean getaway or a weekend cruise to The Bahamas is a great way to experience a carefree tropical holiday and decide if cruising is right for you.

Where do Caribbean cruises depart from?

Caribbean cruises depart from ports across Florida including Miami, Orlando, Jacksonville and Tampa, southern outposts like New Orleans and Galveston, and Northeast cities like New York and Philadelphia.

Are Caribbean cruises good for families?

Caribbean cruises are perfect for families, offering multiple island adventures in one easy trip, combined with onboard dining, entertainment, kids' activities, and more — all included.

Do you need a passport for a Caribbean cruise?

A passport is strongly recommended for U.S. Citizens on Caribbean cruises, but not necessarily required. Technically, you can bring a government-issued photo ID and original birth certificate if you depart and return to the same port.