2024 Ports of Call
Ft. Lauderdale, FL
There is an abundance of things to see and do in the Fort Lauderdale area: visit the newly redesigned Fort Lauderdale Beach and cafes, stroll the historic Riverwalk, shop the luxurious stores on Las Olas Boulevard or venture to the Everglades for an intriguing air boat excursion.
Philipsburg, St. Maarten
The capital of the Dutch side of St. Maarten is the town of Philipsburg, though St. Maarten is an island with two distinct sides. To the north is the French side, whose capital is Marigot, while Philipsburg sits on the southern part of the island. When exploring on cruises that go to St. Maarten, it’s important to visit both sides to understand their customs and heritage.
On an Eastern Caribbean cruise, you’ll quickly be charmed by all sides of the island. Of course, this Caribbean island is best known for its beaches, like Maho Beach or Great Bay Beach, one of the area’s best snorkeling spots. Sample local seafood or rum during your time in port, which have become symbols of St. Maarten life. There’s just enough to fill the day here, especially if you hop between the French and Dutch beaches.
Tortola, BVI
Road Town, on the island of Tortola, sits at both the literal and figurative center of the British Virgin Islands. As the BVI's capital, it serves as the administrative hub for the islands. Its central location also makes it an ideal jumping-off point for cruising the islands of the Sir Francis Drake Channel and for visiting spots like the Baths on Virgin Gorda and the legendary Soggy Dollar Bar on Jost Van Dyke’s White Bay Beach.
Most visitors to Road Town make a beeline for the water. Sailors have long loved the BVI for its idyllic island-hopping. Excellent scuba diving and snorkeling can be found at spots like the Norman Island Caves and the RMS Rhone shipwreck. For those who prefer to explore on dry land, the beach at Cane Garden Bay is only a 20-minute drive from Road Town, and a great spot to enjoy the Caribbean sun and sea while sipping a rum cocktail. While you're at Cane Garden Bay, save time to visit the historic Callwood Rum Distillery. Sage Mountain National Park, home to the tallest peak in the Virgin Islands, is also nearby. Hikers can explore the park's shady tropical forest and take in breathtaking island views.