Tis the Season for a Holiday Getaway
Readers, the holiday season is fast approaching, and what could be more magical than spending it amidst the turquoise waters and white-sand beaches of the Caribbean? A Caribbean Christmas cruise in 2017 offers the perfect blend of relaxation, festive cheer, and unforgettable experiences. In this article, we’ll explore the best cruises, activities, and destinations to make your Caribbean Christmas cruise a truly special one.
Cruise Line Options
Carnival Cruise Lines
Carnival Cruise Lines offers a variety of Caribbean Christmas cruises in 2017, including the following:
- Carnival Freedom: Sailing from Miami, Florida, to St. Thomas, Puerto Rico, Grand Turk, and the Dominican Republic
- Carnival Dream: Departing from New Orleans, Louisiana, with stops in Cozumel, Mexico, and Grand Cayman
Royal Caribbean International
Royal Caribbean International provides a memorable Caribbean Christmas cruise experience with the following options:
- Oasis of the Seas: The largest cruise ship in the world, departing from Fort Lauderdale, Florida, and visiting St. Thomas, Puerto Rico, St. Lucia, and Barbados
- Allure of the Seas: Similar to Oasis of the Seas, sailing from San Juan, Puerto Rico, and stopping at St. Thomas, Barbados, and St. Lucia
Norwegian Cruise Line
Norwegian Cruise Line offers unique and innovative Caribbean Christmas cruises, including:
- Norwegian Gem: Sailing from Miami, Florida, to St. Thomas, Puerto Rico, and Tortola, British Virgin Islands
- Norwegian Breakaway: Departing from New Orleans, Louisiana, with stops in Cozumel, Mexico, and Belize City, Belize
Activities and Entertainment
Festive Festivities
Caribbean Christmas cruises offer an array of holiday-themed activities to get you into the spirit:
- Gingerbread House Competitions: Show off your creative side and compete in gingerbread house competitions for the whole family.
- Christmas Caroling and Concerts: Sing along to classic Christmas carols and enjoy festive concerts on board.
- Santa Claus Meet-and-Greets: Take a photo with Santa Claus himself and share your Christmas wishes.
Onboard Amenities
In addition to festive activities, Caribbean Christmas cruises provide an abundance of onboard amenities to keep you entertained:
- Waterparks and Pools: Splash into the refreshing waterparks and lounge around the spacious pools.
- Casinos and Nightclubs: Try your luck at the casino or dance the night away at vibrant nightclubs.
- Shopping and Spas: Indulge in some holiday shopping or pamper yourself at the luxurious spas.
Destinations and Itineraries
Island Hopping
With a Caribbean Christmas cruise, you’ll have the chance to explore multiple Caribbean destinations:
- Grand Cayman: Swim with stingrays, explore the Crystal Caves, and enjoy the Seven Mile Beach.
- Cozumel: Snorkel or dive in the vibrant coral reefs and visit the ancient Mayan ruins.
- St. Thomas: Ascend Paradise Point for breathtaking panoramic views and explore historical Charlotte Amalie.
Itinerary Options
Consider the following itinerary options when choosing your Caribbean Christmas cruise:
- 7-Night Southern Caribbean Cruise: Visit Jamaica, Grand Cayman, Cozumel, and Belize City.
- 10-Night Eastern Caribbean Cruise: Explore St. Thomas, Puerto Rico, St. Lucia, Barbados, and Dominica.
- 12-Night Western Caribbean Cruise: Discover Grand Cayman, Jamaica, Honduras, and Mexico.
Cruise Cost Breakdown
The cost of a Caribbean Christmas cruise varies depending on the cruise line, itinerary, and cabin type. Here’s a general breakdown:
| Category | Cost |
|---|---|
| Interior Cabin | $500-$1,000 per person |
| Oceanview Cabin | $600-$1,200 per person |
| Balcony Cabin | $800-$1,500 per person |
| Suite | $1,200-$2,000 per person |
Note: Prices are approximate and may vary based on availability and other factors.
Conclusion
Readers, a Caribbean Christmas cruise in 2017 is the perfect way to escape the hustle and bustle of the holiday season and embrace the magic of the Caribbean. With its festive activities, onboard amenities, and exciting destinations, you’ll create unforgettable memories that will last a lifetime. For more travel inspiration, check out our other articles on cruise destinations, holiday travel tips, and unique travel experiences.
FAQ about Caribbean Cruise Christmas 2017
1. When is the best time to book a Caribbean cruise for Christmas 2017?
Book your cruise as early as possible to secure the best deals and availability.
2. What are the most popular cruise lines for Caribbean cruises?
Royal Caribbean, Carnival, and Norwegian Cruise Line are all popular choices for Caribbean cruises.
3. What are the best ports to visit on a Caribbean cruise?
Some of the most popular ports of call in the Caribbean include Cozumel, Grand Cayman, St. Thomas, and St. Maarten.
4. What kind of activities are available on a Caribbean cruise?
There are plenty of activities to keep you entertained on a Caribbean cruise, including swimming, sunbathing, shopping, dining, and nightlife.
5. What is the dress code for a Caribbean cruise?
The dress code on most Caribbean cruises is casual, with some formal nights.
6. What is the weather like in the Caribbean during Christmas?
The weather in the Caribbean during Christmas is typically warm and sunny, with average temperatures in the 70s and 80s.
7. What are the best Christmas activities to do on a Caribbean cruise?
Many cruise lines offer special Christmas activities, such as tree lighting ceremonies, Santa visits, and Christmas parties.
8. What is the cost of a Caribbean cruise for Christmas 2017?
The cost of a Caribbean cruise for Christmas 2017 varies depending on the cruise line, itinerary, and time of year. However, you can expect to pay anywhere from $500 to $2,000 per person.
9. What are some tips for booking a Caribbean cruise for Christmas 2017?
Here are a few tips for booking a Caribbean cruise for Christmas 2017:
- Book early to secure the best deals.
- Consider flying into a nearby port city to save money on airfare.
- Look for cruises that offer special Christmas activities.
- Pack light to avoid baggage fees.
- Get travel insurance to protect yourself against unexpected events.
10. Where can I find more information about Caribbean cruises for Christmas 2017?
You can find more information about Caribbean cruises for Christmas 2017 by visiting the websites of cruise lines, travel agents, and online travel agencies.
