Port guides

Rodney Bay

Saint Lucia · Caribbean & Bahamas

Rodney Bay is a town and bay located in the Gros Islet District on the island of Saint Lucia. Gros Islet is one of the ten districts in the island. It can be found on the northwestern coast of the island above the Castries District, where the capital of St. Lucia is, and the former Dauphin quarter.

50 cruises

Soufriere

Saint Lucia · Caribbean & Bahamas

Marigot Bay, one of the prettiest anchorages in the Caribbean, is surrounded by lush hills and ringed by drooping coconut palms. James Michener described it as the archetype for paradise in the Caribbean. On the bay are restaurants (Doolittle’s is the most famous) and inland you can visit a banana plantation. Our alternate stop, the little Port Town of Soufrière was named after a nearby volcano by the French, who ruled St. Lucia before the English took it over. Locals call it the world’s only drive-in volcano. Prettier sights are to be seen at Diamond Falls and Mineral Baths where you can walk the gardens and take a dip in the pool under the waterfalls. St. Lucia’s lush rainforested mountains including the famous Pitons are truly spectacular.

50 cruises

Gatun Lake

Caribbean & Bahamas

At the center of one of the world’s greatest engineering projects is a place where nature has been given a space to flourish—the vast Gatún Lake. The lake includes some 33 kilometers (20 miles) of the 77-kilometer (48-mile) route that ships follow through the Panama Canal. While a passenger gazing at its forested shores may assume they are looking at a landscape that predates the canal, the lake is as much a manmade creation as the various locks. It was formed in 1912, with the damming of the Chagres River, and the islands that dot the lake were once the peaks of hills. The surface of the lake sits at an elevation of between 25 and 27 meters (82 and 87 feet) above sea level. At its Caribbean end, the Gatún Locks raise ships traveling towards the Pacific to the level of the lake; at its other end, the Pedro Miguel and then the Miraflores Locks lower them back to sea level. In addition to opportunities to see the infrastructure of the canal, created at the expense of millions of dollars and thousands of lives, Gatún Lake is fascinating for its remarkable biodiversity. More than 100 species each of mammals and reptiles, as well as some 500 different birds, thrive in the nature reserves in and near the lake.

48 cruises

St John, U.S.Virgin Islands

Caribbean & Bahamas

Like so many of the islands in the Caribbean, 2017’s double whammy of hurricanes Irma and Maria devastated much of St. John. However, as relief funds get funnelled into rebuilding, normality is gradually being restored, and St. John version 2.0 is emerging - bolder, brighter and better. St. John’s small size might just give it the edge over other desert islands. View less The US purchased the tiny landmass (at just nine miles long, the island is the smallest of the three American Virgin Islands) from the West India and Guinea Company in 1917 and it remains under US govern to this day. Historically speaking however St. John is Danish, who colonised it for almost 250 years before its sale to America. The Virgin Island Nation park covers almost two-thirds the island, meaning visually St. John is stunning, and will remain that way for generations to come. This ‘gift’ to the world comes thanks to Laurence Rockefeller who in 1956 gave the 5,000 acres of lush forest to the people of the island, with the caveat that it become a national park. Thus, velvety green hills slope into picture perfect white sand beaches, which are ringed by turquoise seas. One very definite winner of the tourism hiatus since 2017 has been the marine wildlife. Underwater life was barely affected by the storms and the subsequent lack of tourism has allowed the eco-systems to propagate. The island’s abundant coral reefs were not overly affected by the storms and today the waters are teeming with sea turtles, reef sharks and sting rays.

47 cruises

Iles Des Saintes

Caribbean & Bahamas

Comprising eight small islands – two inhabited – Îles des Saintes is a place where you can be happy doing absolutely nothing. You’ll be tendered to Terre-de-Haut Island, where the local population numbers less than 2,000. Whether your agenda consists of seeing a specific sight like Fort Napoléon, getting active on a hike, or taking a short stroll to find a café, this laid-back locale has got you covered. Hire a boat to go scuba diving. Shop for handpainted t-shirts or posters with island themes. Or simply plant yourself in the sand and let the balmy breezes of the Caribbean carry you into a reverie.

46 cruises

Les Saints

Caribbean & Bahamas

During the feast of All Saints in 1493, Christopher Columbus discovered this archipelago of nine islands that he named "The Saints". Today, only two of them are inhabited. Terre de Haut, in the east, is dominated by the Morne Mire hill; at the summit stands Fort Napoleon, paying homage to the islands' history. In the heart of the botanical garden, shared by iguanas and cacti, there is an exceptional view of the Baie des Saintes, one of the most beautiful in the world. The long shady beach of Pompierre, where it is forbidden to drop anchor, is a peaceful place for a swim, while Pain de Sucre Beach offers wonderful opportunities for snorkelling. On the island, don’t forget to taste the local speciality, the “tourment d’amour”, a cake made with coconut.

44 cruises

Trois Ilets, Martinique

Caribbean & Bahamas

Martinique is well known as France’s favoured Caribbean isle, but it is the little commune of Trois Ilets where the two cultures really mesh together. Found directly opposite the busy capital Fort de France, Trois Ilets retains its historic culture – much of it due to Marie Josèphe Rose Tascher de la Pagerie, aka Empress Josephine of France aka Mrs Napoleon Bonaparte. In fact, so proud are the Martiniquais of their famous daughter that they have sanctified her childhood sugar plantation home. View less La Pagerie is a fascinating museum housing rich colonial artefacts, including some of Napoleon’s rather risqué love letters to his future wife. Trois Ilets was once an important French colony, and as such played an active role in the slave trade. A trip to the Savane des Esclaves will have you learning of the plight of Neg Marrons – and others like him – slaves who fled the plantations to live alone in the hinterland. Visit the reconstruction of a typical rural shack where Neg and others managed to survive by living off the land and by their wits. Like many Caribbean villages, life is centred around the church square. Colourful wooden houses with locally thrown pottery tile rooves flank the typical creole village, while the church itself (where Empress Josephine was baptised) takes pride of place. In fact, so important is pottery to the local culture that the entire village referred to as “Le village de la poterie” in the 18th century. Unsurprisingly though, the islands natural beauty takes a front seat. Many world class beaches are found here including the lovely l’Anse a l’Ane, and the peninsula of Pointe du Bout (literally End Point). This latter place is where you’ll find most of the seaside fun. Think Hobbie-Cats, kayaking, windsurfing and jet skiing for island exploration – the Genipa Mangrove at the end of the island begs discovery if you like to take to the waterways. If your idea of heaven involves the more simple pleasures of reading and strolling under the shade of the palms, then look no further.

42 cruises

Caldera, Costa Rica

Caribbean & Bahamas

One of the stops along the Panama Canal Zone route, Puerto Caldera on Costa Rica's Pacific Coast isn't your ordinary port of call, positioned as it is within easy day-trip distance of the country's multiple national parks. The town itself is small, but makes for an ideal base from which travelers can venture out to explore the variety of this Central American country's outdoor attractions and activities. These include snapping photos of gushing waterfalls (and swimming at the base of one, if you bring your swimsuit!), sightseeing near active volcanoes, bird-watching in nature reserves and sanctuaries and horseback riding on Pacific beaches . . . and that's just for starters. Visitors to Puerto Caldera and the surrounding region also enjoy shopping for handicrafts that local artists sell at their cooperatives, as well as sampling traditional Tico cuisine, especially gallo pinto—a combination of rice and beans eaten at any time of the day or night. Puerto Caldera is the perfect reminder that adventure often awaits just around the bend.

40 cruises

Port of Spain

Caribbean & Bahamas

Trinidad and Tobago is an ideal place to take refuge in nature, while also enjoying the folklore, rhythms and flavours of the island enriched by its melting pot of cultures that can be traced back to Africa, India, Europe, the Middle East and China. Well known for pristine beaches and ancient rainforests, Trinidad’s Northern Range mountains, which cover a quarter of the island, are home to almost 500 different species of birds, mammals, reptiles and fish and 620 types of butterflies. The island has been awarded the title of the world's most environmentally friendly destination, as well as the Caribbean's foremost natural attraction. Once you arrive on an MSC Caribbean and Antilles cruise in the bustling capital of Port of Spain, book one of our scenic drives to experience breath-taking panoramic views of Port of Spain. Drive by striking buildings such as the parliament and the row of colonial houses originally built as private residences known as The Magnificent Seven. Or surround yourself with exotic trees and tropical flowers at the Royal Botanic Gardens, one of the oldest botanical gardens in the world, established in 1818. Leaving town, journey on an MSC excursion to the edge of Trinidad's rainforest to ascend to the Mount St. Benedict's Monastery, known as the Abbey of Our Lady of Exile, 660 feet above sea level. Nestled peacefully in the mountains, the monastery was originally founded by Brazilian monks as a refuge for monks and anybody suffering religious persecution. Here your guide will provide a cultural and historical perspective of the monks who have lived a contemplative life for decades. The monastery welcomes people of all faiths. Need to unwind? Let us take you to Maracas Bay, a popular beach lined with palm trees and surrounded by densely covered hills. It’s the ideal spot to soak up some sun. If you’re searching for wildlife, grab your camera and join us on an MSC excursion to the Caroni Bird Sanctuary. Perfect for bird-watchers, you’ll travel along the mangroves on a flat-bottom boat or kayak and see the nesting home of the scarlet ibis and other species. Or drive through cocoa, citrus and coffee plantations to the Asa Wright Nature Centre, nestled in the Aripo Valley, for a walk through the tropical rainforest with a naturalist guide.

39 cruises

Terre de Haut, Ile des Saintes

Caribbean & Bahamas

The Iles des Saintes, a tiny cluster of islets off the southern coast of Guadeloupe is what the doctor ordered, if he ordered an unspoiled Caribbean experience. No franchise duty free, no big hotels, no casinos. It is what much of the Caribbean used to be like. Stroll around the little town of Bourg de Saintes. Shop for real French cosmetics from the sidewalk vendors. Grab a seat and a beer and revel in the weather and the pace of the past.

39 cruises

Deshaies

Guadeloupe · Caribbean & Bahamas

The port of Deshaies has a magnificent setting on the north-west coast of Basse-Terre Island, the western half of Guadeloupe. Nestling in the crook of a pretty bay on the Caribbean Sea, the village of wooden Creole-style houses extends along the foot of hillsides covered in tropical rainforest. Beyond the bay, the former property of famous French comedian Coluche is now a magnificent botanical garden where you can wander among West Indian trees and flowering plants and spot exotic birds. A little farther to the north is Grande Anse beach, one of most beautiful on the island.

38 cruises

Frederiksted,St. Croix

Caribbean & Bahamas

With its charming gingerbread homes and sleepy streets, Frederiksted is a colorful harbor on the west end of St. Croix. Wander along the waterfront to explore local shops and restaurants. Explore Fort Frederik, built in 1760 – where slaves were emancipated in 1848. Visit St Paul's Anglican Church and St Patrick's Catholic Church. Sample shore excursions: Westend Highlights; Botanical Gardens, Rum Factory & Whim Plantation; Sprat Hall Reef Sail with Beach Barbeque.

37 cruises

Marigot Bay

St. Lucia · Caribbean & Bahamas

Marigot Bay, one of the prettiest anchorages in the Caribbean, is surrounded by lush hills and ringed by drooping coconut palms. James Michener described it as the archetype for paradise in the Caribbean. On the bay are restaurants (Doolittle’s is the most famous) and inland you can visit a banana plantation. Our alternate stop, the little Port Town of Soufrière was named after a nearby volcano by the French, who ruled St. Lucia before the English took it over. Locals call it the world’s only drive-in volcano. Prettier sights are to be seen at Diamond Falls and Mineral Baths where you can walk the gardens and take a dip in the pool under the waterfalls. St. Lucia’s lush rainforested mountains including the famous Pitons are truly spectacular.

36 cruises

Port Elizabeth (Grenadines)

Caribbean & Bahamas

In the heart of the Caribbean, Bequia is the second-largest of 32 islands that make up the country of St Vincent and the Grenadines. You will love the lively and picturesque atmosphere of Port Elizabeth, the island’s main town. From the port, a promenade lined with beautiful traditional houses, landscaped gardens and small restaurants runs along the shoreline. It leads to Princess Margaret Beach, a wild beach where Princess Margaret herself has stayed and which seems to emerge directly from the tropical forest. From rainforest to lush meadows and long stretches of sand, Bequia will offer you a natural setting that is conducive to lovely walks and to spending time on the beach.

32 cruises

Norman Island

Caribbean & Bahamas

31 cruises

Prickly Pear Island

British Virgin Islands · Caribbean & Bahamas

The lovely little island of Prickly Pear gets its name for its habitat that favors this cactus species. The island is situated in the North Sound of Virgin Gorda, which is generally considered to be the island Columbus named Saint Ursula. How and when Virgin Gorda became the "Fat Virgin," no one is certain. All land over 1,000 feet high on Virgin Gorda has been designated National Park, thus preserving its natural beauty. It is also known for long, exquisite white sand beaches, including several on Prickly Pear itself, which boasts some of the BVIs' loveliest. In 1964 Laurence Rockefeller built the island's first resort hotel at Little Dix Bay, and since then Virgin Gorda has continued to grow in popularity with visitors. Weather permitting the ship makes a brief stop off Spanish Town to disembark those guests going on tour. It then repositions to anchor off Prickly Pear where the crew gets set up to treat you to a complimentary Prickly Pear beach party. A tender picks up all guests on tour at Leverick Bay to return them directly to Prickly Pear in time for this event.

31 cruises

Cruz Bay, St. John

Virgin Islands · Caribbean & Bahamas

27 cruises

Santa Marta

Colombia · Caribbean & Bahamas

Santa Marta, Colombia's first Spanish settlement, is the capital city of the Colombian department of Magdalena on the Caribbean Sea. It was founded in 1525 by the Spanish conqueror Rodrigo de Bastidas, which makes it the oldest remaining city in Colombia. Located northeast of Cartagena, between the Santa Marta Mountains and the Caribbean Sea, the city is a popular destination due to its history, colonial architecture, beaches and nearby nature reserves. The mountain range is second in height only to the Andes running through the country. Among the city's attractions include the grand hacienda where Simón Bolívar died in 1830. The recently renovated downtown of Santa Marta with its blend of colonial and Republican architecture is a highlight. The city has a new, distinctive international marina and broadwalk. Las Fiestas del Mar (The Festival of the Sea) is an annual celebration. The festival's slogan is Santa Marta, la magia de tenerlo todo ("Santa Marta, the magic of having it all"). Tayrona National Natural Park, north of Santa Marta, iis the most important ecological reserve in Colombia.

25 cruises

Tobago Cays

Saint Vincent & the Grenadines · Caribbean & Bahamas

A string of white sandy islands bathed by a turquoise sea, the Tobago Cays are one of the Grenadines little treasures. A diver’s paradise, the waters here are home to corals and tropical fish by the thousand. This is a heavenly spot for the explorers at heart among you who enjoy discovering the beaches and crystal-clear waters where the sea turtles live.

25 cruises

Quepos

Costa Rica · Caribbean & Bahamas

Shore Excursion Port Tips The former banana-exporting town of Quepos is your basecamp for a day of rainforest adventure. Take a walk along trails that weave up to waterfalls, or ride horseback to a beautiful jungle pool. A float trip through a mangrove swamp populated by monkeys, crocodiles, egrets, and herons is also available. Or you may choose a nature walk through Manuel Antonio National Park, with its lovely beaches, easy trails, and animal life.

24 cruises

Union Island, Grenadines

Caribbean & Bahamas

23 cruises

San Salvador Island

Caribbean & Bahamas

22 cruises

Spanish Town, Virgin Gorda, BVI

Caribbean & Bahamas

Compact, but utterly gorgeous, the third biggest of the British Virgin Isles is one of the region’s most spectacular - and a truly indulgent Caribbean escape to rejuvenate the senses. Sprinkled amid the mansions and private islands of the rich and famous, Virgin Gorda has somehow retained its secluded, castaway paradise atmosphere. Translating as Fat Virgin, the island was given its unusual name by Colombus, who noted the protruding stomach of the island's shape. View less Visit to dive deep into the island's relaxed essence, and to gorge on endless expanses of idyllic beaches and dreamy coastline. Visit a trademark white sand beach - like the slice of paradise at Savannah Bay - or rise up to the perspective offered from the elevated heights of Gorda Peak. At its southern end, Devil’s Bay National Park provides a haven of relaxation, amid geothermal pools and mounds of scattered boulders. Secluded caves and rock pockets fill with seawater at the Baths, forming the perfect spot to sink into the welcoming water and unwind. Whether you choose one of the beaches here, or head to the island’s plethora of other options, chances are you'll only be able to resist the call of the waves for so long. With tempting temperatures and electric blue overtones, the seas here are the quintessential Caribbean experience. Snorkellers also have rich pickings among crystal clear diving sites - blossoming with colourful fish and sea life.

20 cruises

West End, Tortolo

Caribbean & Bahamas

The Royal Naval Dockyard, the westernmost point in Bermuda, not only showcases Bermuda's nautical heritage, but it also provides a home for an impressive array of attractions and shopping opportunities. The fortifications of the Royal Naval Dockyard were built by British convicts and slave labor during the mid-1800s. Since then it has served many purposes, including the headquarters for the Royal Navy and a strategic defense post for the British in the North Atlantic. Most recently it has been redeveloped into a fascinating attraction offering visitors a glimpse into Bermuda's history, and has become a fun place to shop or explore. The centerpiece of the Dockyard is the commanding Clocktower building, which once served as a naval store and the captain's offices. Today, it has been marvelously restored. Throughout the Dockyard, you will find several restaurants, art galleries, the Bermuda Craft Market, and the Bermuda Maritime Museum, as well as an array of specialty shops and boutiques.

19 cruises