Sample Cruising Itinerary - A 7-Day Caribbean Cruise Plan

Book this 7-day Caribbean route with a balcony cabin to maximize your time on deck. Your magical week begins with a clear plan that keeps things varied, balancing snorkelling, beach days, and cultural stops. In Aruba, flamingos greet visitors at the lagoons, and you’ll find hidden coves along the coast for quiet mornings and refreshing swims.

Day 1: Fort Lauderdale departure sets an upbeat tone as you settle into your cabin and join a quick ship tour. a greek-inspired welcome dinner introduces a warm, friendly vibe, and cooper from guest services helps tailor shore excursions to your pace.

Day 2: Nassau, Bahamas–snorkelling along a protected reef and a short visit to a flamingo-friendly garden offer photo opportunities and calm seas. Day 3: At sea – organizing optional workshops (photo basics, cocktail making) and a swinging hour on the Lido deck keep the energy high.

Day 4: Philipsburg, St. Maarten–wander a maze of port streets, ride a quick bus along roads to a cliff view, and taste local bites. Day 5: Charlotte Amalie, St. Thomas–an easy snorkelling excursion to a sheltered cove and a short shopping stroll in the united port area.

Day 6: Basseterre, St. Kitts or nearby islands in the southeast Caribbean–choose a rainforest tram or a shore excursion that includes a rum factory stop for a crisp tasting. Day 7: Return to Fort Lauderdale with a complete deck party and a final sunset on the water, leaving you relaxed and eager to plan the next adventure.

Caribbean Cruise Itinerary Overview

Choose an Eastern Caribbean 7-night cruise from Miami for easy access to historic ports, broad beaches, and international flavors. The plan balances two sea days with four port calls, letting you sample culture, reef snorkeling, and easy shopping without rush. Onboard you’ll find a huge ship with easy-to-use amenities and events that keep energy up in the evenings itself.

San Juan, Puerto Rico, offers a walkable historic district, 17th-century forts, and colorful streets. Walk through old town plazas, then grab a cocomaya snack from a local stall before returning to the ship. Leave yourself at least 6 hours ashore to enjoy both the town and the ship’s schedule.

St. Thomas in the Virgin Islands provides broad beaches and calm coves. Virgin beaches invite a relaxed stroll to Magens Bay or Coki Beach, where you snorkel among coral gardens and enjoy salt breeze along white sands. A 6–8 hour visit fits well with the ship’s timetable. virgin shores frame the harbor.

Philipsburg, St. Maarten, blends Dutch-and French-influenced charm with open-air markets, like craft stalls along the waterfront, and seaside snacks. Stroll the promenade, browse local crafts, and, if you wish, try a quick snorkeling session near a reef. Plan 6–8 hours to sample both shore and shopping.

Nassau, Bahamas, centers on white-sand beaches and crystal-clear water. A half-day reef excursion reveals corals and colorful fish; bring reef-safe sunscreen and a hat. Explore Cable Beach or the historic downtown streets and the Straw Market for a snack or souvenir.

Back aboard, the ship offers huge dining rooms, diverse venues, and live events that feel lively yet easy to follow. For ports with steeper hills or crowded streets, choose short, guided options and travel with a small group to respect safety and comfort. Always hydrate and bring layers for the sea breeze.

Packing List for Anegada and Trellis Bay: What to Bring

Pack a compact daypack with reef-safe sunscreen, a wide-brim hat, a quick-dry shirt, and a refillable water bottle. Add a lightweight rain jacket, a dry bag for electronics, and a small map or guide note for barrier reef shore hops between Anegada and Trellis Bay. This setup covers shore days with calm sea passages and sandy beach walks.

For snorkeling and beach time, include fins, mask, snorkel, a soak towel, and an extra dry pouch. A mask that fits well reduces fogging; soaking after sun helps comfort. Keep a spare battery and charging cable in the dry bag to avoid water damage.

Plan your schedule so you have 2–3 guided stops; ask guides where to meet; bring a compact first-aid kit, insect repellent, and lip balm with SPF. In a tropical climate, a small fan or cooling scarf helps staying comfortable during steeper walks and long shore breaks.

On Anegada, pristine beaches and sand bars invite exploration; pack sandals with slip resistance and a rash guard for longer periods in sun or wind. A reef-safe sunscreen reduces impact on coral; keep it in a black waterproof bottle to avoid leaks. The shimmer of sunlight on the water enhances every stop.

Trellis Bay trips often include a quaint market or pier-side eateries. If you plan a quick pizza slice or other snacks, have cash or a card ready and a lightweight cooler bag to transport items back to the boat. If you plan a shore picnic, a small steak kept cold in a cooler travels well. Respect local policy regarding waste and reef protection.

Keep a black waterproof pouch for electronics, a slip-case for passport, and a water-resistant bag for boat passages. A thin towel dries fast, and a compact change of clothes helps a user change after a swim. If you plan to do soaking or a beach workout, a small foam roller can aid recovery.

Packing for staying aboard or on the shore demands versatility: a swimsuit, sun shirt with UV protection, and a light scarf for wind. asian-inspired fabrics or breathable blends help staying calm and comfortable on warm days. Add an added layer for cooler evenings, and a note on same-day ferry times to keep your duration relaxed and free of rush.

Anegada Shore Excursion: Itinerary, Highlights, and Time Allocation

Book a private, six-hour Anegada shore excursion with a local guide and a compact vehicle to maximize time on the sand and in turquoise water. The plan starts with a dock pickup at 8:30, followed by a short boat transfer to a sandy cove, a beachfront lunch with local specials, and two island stops, with plenty of time for photos and relaxed strolls along the beachfront.

Itinerary: 8:30 dock pickup; 9:00 board a small boat to a shallow cay for a 45-minute snorkel session in turquoise water; 10:00 drive to Loblolly Beach for 2 hours of beach time and a walk along a rust-colored boardwalk; 12:15 bespoke lunch with grilled fish or tropical veggie options, plus cocomaya desserts and fresh coco water; 13:15 depart for Cockburn Town for a quick town stroll and photo stops; 14:15 return to the dock. If seas cooperate, the crew can extend the finish with a prolonged beach moment before boarding.

Highlights include pristine turquoise water, a beachfront stretch of white sand, a reef edge accessible at low tide, and a glimpse of the island's unique rust accents on railings and cottages. The trip sparks friendships among travelers as you share snacks, stories, and short boat runs between stops; the guide offers local insights and practical tips for the rest of your Caribbean time.

Time allocation (approximate): 8:30–9:00 transfer and boarding, 9:00–9:45 boat leg, 9:45–11:45 beach time at Loblolly, 12:15–13:15 bespoke lunch, 13:15–14:15 Cockburn Town visit, 14:15–15:00 return to the dock, with a flexible window if weather allows a prolonged final moment on the sand.

Practical tips: wear comfortable trainers for island paths and watch for a slip on wet docks; toilets are available at the port and near the beachfront area; rubbish bins line the trail for easy disposal of small trash; a supply of bottled water is provided, and you can request extra water or a quick snack break. The day can be tailored to a bespoke pace or menu, with a dinner add-on at a beachfront shack after return if you wish a longer, better, sunset finale. There’s ample time for photos, and the small boat crew fosters easy conversations that strengthen new friendships. If you want a more private feel, ask for a private boat transfer back to the dock to avoid crowding on the return leg.

Anegada Beach Spots: Access, Timings, and Practical Tips

Based on recent visits, begin at Potters Beach and walk along the shoreline to spot coral heads and iguanas basking in the sun. Access is best via the coastal lanes from The Settlement; park near the gazebo and follow the sand paths that run parallel to the surf. For boats, dockage is available at select jetties, but confirm permissions with local operators before tying up.

Timings: plan snorkeling or beach time around the two-hour window centered on low tide; mornings are usually calmer and clearer, with earlier low tides giving you more shoreline to explore. Check local tide charts earlier in the day and adjust for wind direction. For a relaxed swim, visit from late morning to early afternoon when the water stays comfortable; sheltered spots along the reef offer calmer water near the shoreline.

Gear and planning: bring sufficient water, reef-safe sunscreen, and footwear for uneven sand and rocky sections. Pack items in a dry bag; some shops offer bespoke beach gear and items such as snorkels, fins, and flotation aids. Along the lanes between spots, watch for uneven ground and shade from orange bougainvillea or other natural cover.

Wildlife and etiquette: iguanas and a pelican frequent the dunes; keep a respectful distance and do not feed wildlife. The coral and marine life near the reef require careful stepping; stay on established paths to protect the shoreline and barrier edges.

Overnight and access: If you want an overnight, book a beachfront lodge or arrange a gazebo-backed campsite or private hut through a local operator. american visitors value the quaint, low-key vibe and often coordinate with united operators for gear drops and morning departures. For vessel access, confirm dockage with the marina and plan ahead for early departures to catch calmer seas.

Snorkeling at Anegada Reef: Gear, Best Spots, and Safety

Here is your practical setup: wear a 3mm wetsuit or rash guard, bring a mask with tempered glass, a snug snorkel, and fins, plus reef-safe sunscreen, a small dry bag, and a surface marker buoy. Keep your logs of sightings to share with locals on the tour and to refine future outings.

Before you enter, check gear: mask seal, snorkel clearance, and fin fit. This grille of coral heads formed a natural corridor along the reef edge; move with short, controlled strokes and avoid dragging equipment across the surface. Here, the southeast side offers calmer water and clearer visibility, with sand pockets that attract rays and juvenile fish. The combination of sand, coral, and seagrass throughout the area creates a marine character you can savor. Seek tips from locals, and consider a tour with peter for a safe, guided route. Keep your logs of sightings to compare on future outings.

Here are three zones to explore, each offering a distinct mix of sand, coral, and seagrass.

Safety: snorkel with a buddy; monitor wind and current, especially on the eastern exposures; stay in shallow water if you’re new to the area; never touch coral or marine life; keep a comfortable distance from boats and watercraft; use reef-safe sunscreen to protect both skin and reef; if you feel fatigue, return to shore immediately. Always coordinate your plan with the guide or locals before entering here or on a dawn outing.

To maximize your time, ask local guide peter for a route. Locals often blend reef knowledge with land-side spots such as Flamingos Pond, which adds a nature-filled edge to your visit; flamingos populate the inland pond area and remind you how this island balances land and sea. The anegadas reef system showcases a must-see combination of sand and coral life throughout which marine life moves in predictable levels, inviting you to savor every moment of your outing.

Trellis Bay Day: Dining Options, Shops, and Local Culture

Recommendation: Begin with a special distillery tasting by the waterfront, then head towards the coastline to map your course for Trellis Bay. Once you settle the taste, stroll along flat boardwalks toward a breezy platform where coffee and light bites appear.

For dining, choose from three nearby options: a grilled fish stand with a tangy glaze, a plantain bowl counter, and a bakery with local pastries. They use exclusively fresh ingredients, and timing varies by crowd. Some spots offer free samples, and toilets are clearly signposted nearby.

Shops line the quay with unique crafts: wood carvings, handwoven textiles, and hendos-inspired pieces. A playful monkey statue sits on weathered surfaces near the market, and the flat boardwalk makes browsing comfortable for families.

Local culture comes alive through the radio and on-site talks. Locals believed Trellis Bay offered the most relaxed shore vibe. Vendors share tips on reliable transportation and tell stories of the coast and reef. The vibe stays friendly, with live events and craft demos that invite you to linger and chat.

Events unfold across Trellis Bay with pop-up tastings and artist demos. Check timing boards for openings, then plan your return to the ship with a practical buffer. Signage helps locate toilets and other facilities, while a simple shuttle keeps transportation reliable.

Venture along the coast after sunset for a calm farewell, picking up a last plate to celebrate the day and the tack you took toward future adventures.

Getting Between Anegada and Trellis Bay: Ferry Schedules and Tips

Book the 08:30 Trellis Bay → Anegada crossing now to secure your seat; arrive 30 minutes early, and confirm availability with the operator a day ahead to avoid missing the boat.

Typical departures and travel times to help you plan the day:

1. Trellis Bay to Anegada – 08:30 departure; roughly 2 hour 15 minute ride; arrival around 10:45.
2. Trellis Bay to Anegada – 11:30 departure; roughly 2 hour 40 minute ride; arrival around 14:10.
3. Trellis Bay to Anegada – 15:00 departure; roughly 2 hour 30 minute ride; arrival around 17:30.

1. Anegada to Trellis Bay – 10:00 departure; roughly 2 hour 15 minute ride; arrival around 12:15.
2. Anegada to Trellis Bay – 13:00 departure; roughly 2 hour 30 minute ride; arrival around 15:30.
3. Anegada to Trellis Bay – 17:00 departure; roughly 2 hour 25 minute ride; arrival around 19:25.

Tips to maximize your transfer:

• Secure your seat by booking ahead; availability can tighten during peak weeks and holidays, especially for a family of travelers. You could share a cabin or open seating to keep costs reasonable.
• Plan to observe the channel and flats from the observation area; the breezy voyage offers breathtaking views of the flats and the dyke along the harbor.
• At Trellis Bay, a café near the dock provides coffee and light bites; a second café with outdoor seating offers a front-row view while you wait.
• Arrive at the harbor at least 30 minutes before departure; a slight incline on the dock can feel slippery, so wear non-slip shoes and secure loose items.
• For families, choose the earlier option to maximize available daylight for exploring Anegada; this reduces the least time spent waiting and helps keep kids occupied.
• Anegada offers wild beaches, calm waters, and shallow channels ideal for a quick explore; combine the ferry ride with a short tour of moorings and nearby locations that fit your schedule.
• If you plan to kiteboard or snorkel, check local availability and weather; some resorts offer transfers that ease the transfer while you enjoy the harbor views.
• Willy is a nickname locals use for a small seaside shack near the harbor; you may encounter this casual stop when you share a plan with residents who know the routes and hours.
• When you disembark, follow fire safety briefings and port rules; a simple fire extinguisher presence is standard on some boats and docks.
• On Anegada, you can explore a few house-style accommodations and cozy eateries; ask staff about moorings, that option, and the best location to dock for access to amenities.
• Availability varies by day and location; ask the crew about the least crowded times and what locations have the most flexible schedules to suit your family plans.
• Resorts on either side can arrange private transfers if you prefer a direct option from the harbor to your lodging; this can save time and streamline your day.
• For a balanced itinerary, plan a morning departure, visit a couple of locations on Anegada, and return in the late afternoon while the light is favorable for photos of the channel and the coast.
• Keep your bags light and secure on deck; the harbor area can get busy, and moving between moorings requires coordination with crew and fellow travelers.