The Western Caribbean
Beccy Miller
As the Med season begins to draw to a close, we look over to the fabulous Caribbean, perfect for some winter sun. Here are the best spots to sail to in the Western Caribbean...
Grand Cayman
The Cayman Islands are one of the smallest sets of islands in the Caribbean, but they still pack a punch with their stunning beaches, offering miles of insta-worthy sand for you to sprawl across and catch some sun.
Seven Mile Beach is consistently voted in the top 5 beaches in the Caribbean on Trip Advisor, with its warm waters and an excellent array of restaurants to relax and get a drink at, whilst you sample local dishes such as the coconut shrimp and deep-fried dumplings known as Johnny Cakes.
Cozumel
This Mexican island is 12 miles from the mainland and is located just off the Yucatan Peninsula. It's one of the busiest ports in the region, as almost all short cruises will include a stop-off here. It offers excellent snorkelling, beautiful beaches and historical ruins dating back to the Mayan period.
If you're a sun-seeker, then Mr Sanchos or Paradise Beach offer all-inclusive day passes, offering food, drink and access to water sports and pools, perfect for a lazy beach day.
Jamaica
The vibrant island of Jamaica has not one, but several cruise ports for you to explore. The main three are Ochos Rios, Montego Bay and Falmouth, each offering something different.
Explore the old pirate town of Port Royal and scuba dive around the 'Pompeii of the Sea' - a large section of the village which was destroyed in an earthquake in 1692. Or head to the stunning Dunn's River Falls, where you can explore the lagoons, plunge pools and thermal springs that make up this Jamaican national wonder. No trip to Jamaica would be complete without sampling some local rum, the local favourite Wray & Nephews is very strong, so sample with caution!
Belize
The climate in Belize is warm all year. which makes this the perfect place to visit when it's turned colder back home. With tropical beaches, mangroves, rainforests and Mayan ruins to explore, there is never enough time in port to fit it all in, so repeat trips are always welcome.
History fans should definitely prioritise the Mayan ruins, the nearest being the Altun Ha Mayan temple. It was an important trade route in Mayan times and lots of exotic trade items have been found here. The stone Jade was sacred to the Mayans and the largest piece of Jade was found at this complex, in the shape of a head.
Roatan Island
Roatán’s diverse blend of cultures and traditions is enough to charm anyone. . Divers and snorkelers come to the largest of Honduras’ Bay Islands every year, as it's home to the second-largest barrier reef in the world. There are limestone caves, coral and fish teeming around the reef, just waiting to be explored.
Roatán also provides access to laid-back beach towns and secluded shores to discover. On the Big Island, you can mingle with monkeys and 'Jesus' lizards, snorkel with stingrays and zipline through rainforest canopies. Seafood fans must try the local dish tapado - a hearty seafood stew made with plantain and tropical root veg.
Costa Maya
This Mexican port is just 30 miles south of Cancun and offers visitors the same slice of paradise, with access to the Great Maya Reef and the lost-Mayan Chacchoben Ruins.
The port was built specifically for the cruise market and on arrival, you will be greeted with a Mayan-style entrance, lots of little shops selling arts and crafts and a small open-air theatre, where locals perform little shows depicting folklore stories.
What part of the Caribbean is your favourite?
