The western Caribbean is one of my favorite areas for cruise ports. With an abundance of natural beauty, friendly locals, amazing sights to take in, and endless adventures awaiting, the western Caribbean has some of the best cruise ports imaginable. I’ve put together a list of my favorite ports in the area. If you are planning a cruise of the western Caribbean be sure to take note of these ports.
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Western Caribbean Cruise Ports that Always Deliver
My family and I have enjoyed all of these wonderful spots, some on several occasions. They rarely disappoint. These ports offer all the grand scenery we expect in the Caribbean, as well as a great vibe and opportunities to make life long memories.
Belize
In the extremely exotic Belize, you will find a HUGE range of activities and sights to see. With gorgeous beaches to the east and dense jungle to the west, Belize is home to rich wildlife on both land and see. Visitors can look forward to relaxing on the beach, snorkelling, diving, as well as exploring the wonder of nature and the Mayan ruins found there. Highly recommend the Belize Barrier Reef snorkelling experience. It is well worth the cost and the time. One of our favourite excursions ever was that time we snorkelled with nurse sharks and stingrays in Belize on New Year’s Eve Day.
Grand Cayman, Cayman Islands
Grand Cayman is the jewel of the Cayman Islands. This largest of the Cayman Islands boasts gorgeous, white sand beaches, fine dining, exciting nightlife, beautiful reefs, and more. Its famous Seven Mile Beach, Stingray City, and Botanical Park are all must see attractions. Traveler Tip – Do NOT Miss the Turtle sanctuary. I will return.
Roatan, Honduras
Roatan, an island about 65 kilometers off the northern coast of Honduras, is a western Caribbean paradise just waiting to be explored. Of course, you’ll find the white sand beaches that are so well-loved in the Caribbean. Unbelievably lush, Roatan also boasts amazing diving areas, gorgeous flora and fauna, and great excursion options. Such great memories of waking up here one morning on our first ever cruise, spying the turquoise blue waters and beach right beyond our balcony stateroom. Magic!
Cozumel, Mexico
A mostly untouched island off the coast of Mexico, Cozumel is a must see port in the western Caribbean for diving enthusiasts. Although, it boasts white sand beaches, resorts, dining, and all of the things we love about Caribbean travel, Cozumel really shines for diving. There are diving spots around sections of the Mesoamerican Reef, the Museo Subacuatico de Aerte’s submerged sculptures, and the Chankanaab eco park. A diver’s paradise.
Ocho Rios, Jamaica
No post on the western Caribbean would be complete without at least one stop in Jamaica. Ocho Rios is the tops for me. This lovely area features amazing shopping, dining, and natural beauty, Ocho Rios really delivers. Enjoy horseback riding on the beach, swimming with dolphins, and relaxing on incredible beaches. Or have an epic lunch at one of the many restaurants in the area. Do some shopping or get your hair braided.
We’ve been to Jamaica several times and we love it. Jamaica is one of the most family friendly areas we have visited. Our memories of the first time we took the kids to Jamaica are special. I will never forget how the Jamaicans treated our girls and nicknamed them “Baby Girl!” and “Fish.”
Western Caribbean Cruise Ports You Must Visit
The western Caribbean is an oasis of both natural and man-made beauty. You really can’t go wrong with any port in the area. That being said, the cruise ports I just listed are the ones in the western Caribbean that you absolutely should not miss. They are some of my personal favourites and they boast some incredible excursion opportunities as well!