Which area of the Caribbean?

[hulagirl57]

Thinking of a cruise in January 2014, but have no idea what area to consider. Is the Western Caribbean area a safe choice? Looking for input from experienced cruisers. Thanks.

[blue_water]

We've taken 8 cruises to the Eadtern, Southern, and Western Caribbean and we now stay in these areas to enjoy more time there. All are safe, there are precautions to take in some areas just as at home.

What interests do you have? Snorkeling or diving, jungle tours or beaches? You will find gorgeous beaches throughout the Caribbean. Our first cruise was the western and included Cozumel, Grand Cayman and Jamaica. That's a very popular itinerary because each destination is unique.

Have you read up on any islands?

[CRUISERTN]

Have been to all of the Caribbean islands many times and always suggest Eastern if you want beaches, water sports, some snorkeling and shopping; Western Caribbean if you want water sports, snorkeling/diving and jungle and Mayan ruins, and Southern Caribbean if you want to see as many islands as possible in a one week period (round trip cruises from San Juan), but most of those islands are similar to Eastern as far as shopping and beaches. I would suggest a Western Caribbean cruise that includes Belize in its itinerary - and go to the jungle and ruins there such as Lamanai, Xuantunich, etc. for an amazing experience, and save the beaches for Cayman, Cozumel and Roatan!! Your itinerary should depend on what you are interested in doing and seeing. Hope this helps.

[blue_water]

Never heard back from the OP so we could give recommendations on an itinerary that they would enjoy.

[hulagirl57]

We decided on a 7 day Western Caribbean cruise departing from Houston in January 2014. Ports include Cozumel, Roatan and Belize. Suggestions for excursions?

[blue_water]

Do you plan on snorkeling, beach time, or daysails? Cozumel is one of the best islands for snorkeling with the Palancar Reef.

 

Goff's Caye is a great snorkel spot off the coast of Belize, you go there directly from the ship (you anchor off the coast because they don't have a deep harbor at Belize City).

 

On Roatan you can go to the park and enjoy a cat sail. We hired a guide and went to West End then took a water taxi to West Bay. West End is a funky bay with small shops and a fantastic cigar bar, great place to pick up a piece of the famous Lenca pottery. Nice water taxi to West Bay which is a nicer beach, had a great burger and a nice visit at the Thirsty Turtle at the Bananarama Resort.

 

What interests you?