You’re already dreaming of a Caribbean cruise with Carnival—relaxing on white sand beaches, snorkeling in crystal-clear waters, and wandering colorful streets. A cruise vacation seems like the ideal way to see it all, but does every port deliver the dream? Unfortunately, not every port in the Caribbean provides a slice of paradise.
Some ports make you feel like you’ve walked straight into a travel magazine—palm trees swaying, turquoise waves lapping the shore, and a beach bar calling your name. It is the kind of place where you can snorkel with sea turtles, sip rum punch with your toes in the sand, and still have time to wander colorful streets before heading back to the ship.
Then there are those ports—the ones where you step off the gangway and straight into a maze of pushy vendors, crowded streets, or an industrial dock with zero island vibes. The ones that make you wonder if staying on board with a frozen cocktail would’ve been the better move.
Which ports will make your cruise an unforgettable adventure, and which will sink your dreams faster than a pier runner who’s missed their departure? I’ve compiled this guide to the best and worst ports of call on Carnival Cruise Caribbean and Bahamas itineraries. It’s based on my personal experiences and from reading hundreds of candid cruise passenger reviews.
Read on to discover which Caribbean ports on a Carnival Cruise Line itinerary are a hit with cruisers and which are disappointing.
What Makes a Carnival Cruise Port “Good” or “Bad”?
So, why do some cruise ports get rave reviews? The best ports in the Caribbean are typically considered safe and have attractions within a short distance of the cruise terminal. Like Willemstad, Curaçao—its beautiful historic town is walkable from the ship. Or Half Moon Cay—Carnival’s private island—with its stunning beaches.
On the flip side, ports like Nassau, La Romana, and Freeport get bad raps either because they’re overpriced tourist traps, industrial ports, or are plagued by aggressive vendors. Nassau also gets poor reviews because it can feel overcrowded when up to seven ships dock at the same time, bringing around 30,000 passengers!
The good news is that even a lackluster port can turn into a great stop with the right plan. For example, cruisers in Jamaica, Belize, or some ports in the Dominican Republic book shore excursions, organize beach days, or spend time onboard enjoying the ship’s facilities.
Of course, any port in the Caribbean is better than being stuck in the office, even if you decide to stay on the cruise ship.
Carnival Cruise Ports Ranked from Best to Worst
How do the best and worst Carnival ports of call stack up? Read on to find out, starting with the star in Carnival’s crown—a private island in the Bahamas.
Half Moon Cay, Bahamas (★★★★★ | 10/10)
Carnival’s private island, Half Moon Cay, is one of the best ports on the cruise line’s itinerary. Many visitors say it’s exactly how they picture a tropical Caribbean island. The exclusive destination features soft white sand, turquoise waters, and cabanas. Imagine: no high-rises, stress, or traffic—just miles of beach and tropical cocktails waiting for you.
Cruise passengers love Half Moon Cay for its tranquility and stunning beauty. Several cruisers comment that it’s the best beach day they’ve ever spent. Others rave about water sports activities, swimming with stingrays, and horseback riding. However, some note that there’s little to do outside of the beach.
If you want the best setup, grab a cabana early. They sell out fast, and once you see everyone else roasting in the sun while you’ve got shade, a fan, and a stocked cooler, you’ll know why.
Further reading: Discover Half Moon Cay, Bahamas: Your Ultimate Activity Guide.
Mahogany Bay, Roatán, Honduras (★★★★★ | 10/10)
Mahogany Bay is a stunning Carnival port where you can step off the ship and onto a tropical beach in minutes. The soft white sand and calm, clear waters make it perfect for snorkeling in the world’s second-largest coral reef. If you want more than just a beach day, there’s zip-lining, snorkeling, and wildlife encounters with sloths and monkeys.
Travelers consistently praise Roatán as one of the best, most relaxing port experiences since everything is right off the ship. Mahogany Bay beach is well-maintained, the water is crystal clear, and there are plenty of loungers. Others mention that while it’s a beautiful spot, it can feel crowded when multiple ships are in port.
Skip the crowded beach near the cruise center and take the scenic chairlift ride for a quieter, more relaxing spot.
Check out my guide to Roatan’s best beaches.
Bonaire (★★★★★ | 9.7/10)
Bonaire in the ABC Islands has it all—crystal clear waters, healthy coral reefs, and a quaint colonial town on the cruise port’s doorstep. The island’s relaxed vibe, pastel-colored Dutch buildings, and waterfront promenades make it a great place to explore on foot. Shore excursions include salt flats, flamingo spotting, and exploring blowholes on the island’s rugged east coast.
Some cruisers share that Bonaire feels untouched compared to busier Caribbean ports, with a laid-back atmosphere and no pushy vendors. Others say the best experiences happen in the water—a trip to Klein Bonaire is among the top snorkeling spots in the world.
Unlike many Caribbean ports, you won’t be hounded by vendors here—just friendly locals and a peaceful island vibe.
Further reading: Explore Bonaire from Kralendijk Port: A Cruise Guide to the Island’s Best Experiences.
Aruba (★★★★½ | 9.5/10)
One of the most stunning islands on a Carnival Caribbean cruise itinerary, Aruba is a must-visit island. Within walking distance, Oranjestad features colorful Dutch architecture and plenty of shops. Surfside Beach is within walking distance, and Eagle Beach, with its famous Fofoti Trees, is a short taxi ride away.
Some cruisers share that Aruba is one of the easiest ports to enjoy without an excursion, with plenty to see and do right off the ship. Many travelers find that while the beaches are gorgeous, they can get crowded when multiple ships are in port. A walking tour of Oranjestad’s charming streets is a relaxing way to soak up Dutch-Caribbean culture.
The free trolley in Oranjestad makes exploring easy—just hop on, hop off for a breezy ride through the colorful downtown. Or take a trip to the California Lighthouse for stunning panoramic views of the Caribbean and Aruba.
Further reading: The Best Ways to Spend Your Cruise Port Day in Aruba and Oranjestad.
Curaçao (★★★★½ | 9/10)
Curaçao’s bright, pastel-colored buildings and scenic waterfront make it one of the most picturesque ports in the Caribbean. The famous Queen Emma Pontoon Bridge connects the cruise terminal to the heart of Willemstad, where you’ll find charming shops, lively cafés, and historic forts. For beach lovers, a short taxi ride takes you to some of the island’s best white-sand beaches with incredible snorkeling.
Some cruisers share that Curaçao feels like a perfect mix of Caribbean beauty and European charm, with plenty to explore on foot. Cruisers comment that the shopping and dining are great, but it’s worth leaving the downtown area to see more of the island. Many recommend visiting the floating market or trying the famous Blue Curaçao liqueur at a local distillery.
Willemstad is one of the most walkable cruise ports, with colorful streets, great shopping, and local eats just steps from the ship.
St. Maarten (★★★★½ | 9/10)
The cruise port in Philipsburg, St. Maarten (Sint Maarten), offers the best of both worlds—stunning beaches and a lively downtown area. Many cruisers suggest taking a walking tour of Philipsburg to enjoy local cuisine, explore historic buildings like Fort Amsterdam, and soak up the island vibes. Want the ultimate experience? Take a taxi to Maho Beach to watch planes land just overhead.
St. Maarten has plenty to do if you want to venture farther from Philipsburg. For example, the French side of the island has stunning secluded beaches and authentic French cafes in Marigot.
For the best panoramic view, take a short taxi ride up to Fort Louis—it overlooks both the Dutch and French sides of the island.
Further reading: The Best Things to Do in St. Maarten on a Cruise Day in Port.
St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands (★★★★½ | 9/10)
One of the most popular stops on Carnival’s cruise itinerary, St. Thomas, is known for the historic Charlotte Amalie, beautiful beaches, and incredible panoramic views from Paradise Point. It’s also easy to reach popular beaches like Magens Bay, Sapphire Bay, and Secret Harbor Beach. Many cruisers also take excursions to St. John to enjoy secluded, unspoiled beaches.
Carnival cruise ships dock at the Havensight cruise terminal in Charlotte Amalie. Seasoned cruisers recommend that if you want a relaxing beach day, skip the packed Magens Bay crowds and head to Lindquist Beach for soft sand, clear water, and fewer tourists.
Further reading: Charlotte Amalie Walking Tour: See the Best of St. Thomas on Foot.
Grand Turk, Turks and Caicos (★★★★ | 8/10)
Grand Turk is popular with Carnival cruise passengers as the center opens directly onto a white-sand beach with crystal-clear water, making it perfect for a laid-back beach day without the hassle of taxis or excursions. There’s also a massive pool, bars, and duty-free shopping right at the port, so you don’t have to go far to enjoy yourself.
Many cruisers say that the cruise area can get crowded and suggest heading to Jack’s Shack for better drinks, fewer people, and their famous jerk chicken. Others suggest getting a taxi to Cockburn Town to enjoy a walking tour and beach day at Pillory Beach or Governor’s Beach.
Hidden gem: The Grand Turk Lighthouse offers stunning ocean views and a quiet escape from the busier port area.
San Juan, Puerto Rico (★★★★ | 8/10)
San Juan is a perfect destination if you love history, culture, and walkable cities. A few yards from the cruise terminal is Old San Juan. Here, you can stroll along cobblestone streets, admire colorful colonial buildings, and explore landmarks like El Morro and Castillo San Cristóbal.
Some cruisers say San Juan is one of the best walkable ports in the Caribbean, with endless sights just outside the terminal. Many comment that it can feel crowded when multiple ships are in port. Many recommend stopping at a rooftop bar for views, trying authentic Puerto Rican food, or visiting a rum distillery for local flavors.
Head to the top of Castillo San Cristóbal for the best panoramic views of the coastline and Old San Juan.
Cozumel, Mexico (★★★★ | 8/10)
Cozumel is a top-rated cruise stop known for incredible snorkeling, stunning beaches, and lively downtown shopping. The cruise terminal is packed with restaurants, bars, and souvenir shops, while a short taxi ride takes you to white-sand beaches or ancient Mayan ruins. Whether relaxing or exploring, Cozumel offers something for everyone.
Despite its excellent snorkeling opportunities, Cozumel gets mixed reviews from cruisers. Vibrant offshore reefs are fantastic for snorkeling, but many cruisers say the port is touristy and lacks the authentic vibe of other Caribbean islands.
Looking to escape the crowds? Punta Sur Eco Park offers stunning coastal views, a lighthouse, and quiet beaches with fewer tourists.
Further reading: What to Do in Cozumel for a Day: Ultimate Guide for Relaxation, Adventure, and Culture and the Best Restaurants in Cozumel Near the Cruise Port.
St. Kitts (★★★★ | 7.5/10)
Carnival Cruise Line ships dock in Port Zante, St. Kitts. The beautiful cruise is known for its lively vibe, shops, restaurants, and historical site near the cruise terminal. For history buffs, Brimstone Hill Fortress offers stunning panoramic views, while nature lovers can take a scenic train ride around the island or visit the lush rainforests.
St. Kitts gets mixed reviews, and although it’s a beautiful Caribbean island, one cruiser shared that unless you take a tour, there’s not much to do near the port.
From my experience, St. Kitts is best enjoyed by taking an excursion to one of the many attractions on the island. These include the Timothy Hill Overlook, Brimstone Hill Fortress, ATV safari tours, or a relaxing beach day on a secluded stretch of white sand. An excursion to Nevis is an excellent way to enjoy a peaceful cruise day away from ship chaos.
Discover the top beaches in St. Kitts for a relaxing beach day in the Caribbean.
Grand Cayman (★★★ | 7.5/10)
Grand Cayman is a popular stop on many Carnival Caribbean itineraries, known for its stunning turquoise waters, world-class shopping, and the iconic Stingray City experience. The island’s Seven Mile Beach is breathtaking, but if you’re visiting during peak cruise season, expect large crowds from multiple ships.
One thing that catches some Carnival cruisers off guard is that Grand Cayman doesn’t have a cruise pier, so your ship will anchor offshore, and you’ll need to take a tender boat to reach the island. Some cruisers love the adventure, while others find it inconvenient, especially on busy days when the wait times can feel long.
Is Grand Cayman worth the stop? Opinions vary. Some Carnival guests call Stingray City an absolute bucket-list experience. Others, however, aren’t as thrilled, saying that the tendering process was slow and that the island felt expensive compared to other ports.
Further reading: The Ultimate Guide to the Grand Cayman Cruise Port in George Town and the Best Restaurants in Grand Cayman Near the Cruise Port.
Amber Cove, Dominican Republic (★★★½ | 7/10)
Amber Cove is Carnival’s modern cruise port in the Dominican Republic. It’s designed for relaxation, with a massive pool, waterslides, bars, and shops right at the terminal. Many cruisers enjoy staying within the port’s resort-style setting, while others venture out to explore Puerto Plata’s colonial history, waterfalls, or scenic mountain views.
Some cruisers say this is an excellent stop for a laid-back, stress-free day without needing an excursion. Others mention that while the port itself is beautiful, it’s impossible to experience authentic Dominican Republic culture in the terminal.
For the best experience, book a shore excursion to the famous Damajagua Waterfalls or get a taxi to Puerto Plata and enjoy the historic colonial city on foot.
Costa Maya, Mexico (★★★ | 6.5/10)
Costa Maya is a purpose-built cruise port with a massive pool, shopping village, and bars right at the pier. It’s great for a laid-back day, but the best experiences are outside the port. A short taxi ride takes you to Mahahual, a charming beach town with turquoise waters and local seafood spots.
Many cruiser passengers say that the cruise terminal area is touristy and lacks culture. I’d have to agree. For a more authentic experience, book an excursion to see the ancient Mayan ruins of Chacchoben, one of the region’s hidden gems. Unlike many Mexican cruise ports, you can visit real Mayan ruins without a long drive.
The nearby Bacalar Lagoon, known as the “Lake of Seven Colors,” is well worth a visit. It offers stunning blue water and peaceful surroundings.
Further reading: The Best Beaches In Costa Maya Close to the Cruise Port.
Belize City, Belize (★★½ | 6/10)
Belize City is a tender port with little to see near the dock, making it one of the least exciting cruise stops. The real attractions—Mayan ruins, cave tubing, and snorkeling—are an hour or more away. Most cruisers book excursions, as the city itself isn’t great for exploring independently.
If you go ashore, stick to a tour—wandering on your own isn’t recommended due to safety concerns and limited attractions.
Ocho Rios, Jamaica (★★½ | 6/10)
Arriving in Ocho Rios on a Carnival cruise ship? The best advice is to book a shore excursion. I’ve discovered that Ocho Rios is a mixed bag among cruise passengers. Dunn’s River Falls is stunning. But it can get packed when several cruise ships are in port. Also, nearby beaches require an entry fee and an overpriced taxi ride.
To escape the cruise crowds in Ocho Rios, other ways to spend your cruise day include the Mystic Mountain Adventure Park, tubing on the White River, or visiting Bob Marley’s Childhood Home.
Montego Bay, Jamaica (★★½ | 6/10)
Montego Bay has beautiful beaches and lively resorts, but the cruise port itself is industrial and far from major attractions. Many cruisers say getting around requires pricey taxis or excursions, and some areas outside tourist spots feel unsafe. The best experiences are at private beach clubs or all-inclusive resorts.
For a hassle-free day, book a resort pass—places like Sandals or Secrets offer all-inclusive beach access with food, drinks, and no crowds.
Nassau, Bahamas (★★ | 5/10)
The problem with Nassau is that it gets crowded with over 29,000 cruise passengers daily during peak seasons. Added to that, many tourists complain of pushy vendors near the terminal area. However, if you disembark early, a walking tour of Nassau can seem a world away.
Other cruisers recommend getting a day pass to Paradise Island for a more relaxing experience or using the port stop to spend a day on the ship.
Looking for the best things to do in Nassau? Check out my guide to Nassau’s best beaches and how to spend a cruise day in Nassau.
La Romana, Dominican Republic (★★ | 4/10)
La Romana in the Dominican Republic gets a bad rap from Carnival cruise passengers because there is nothing to do in the vicinity. Even the cruise terminal is poor compared to other Caribbean ports. Also, it’s not safe to venture outside the port area without a pre-booked excursion.
Most cruisers recommend traveling to nearby spots like Altos de Chavón, Saona Island, or Catalina Island.
Progreso, Mexico (★ | 4/10)
Progreso’s long pier—one of the longest in the world—means a shuttle ride is required just to reach town. The beach near the port is average at best, and there’s nothing much to see in the town. Most cruisers recommend booking an excursion to Chichen Itza or Cenotes, as Progreso town is pretty drab and uninspiring.
If you go ashore, skip the port area and book a tour to the Mayan ruins or cenotes—it’s the best way to make the stop worthwhile.
Freeport, Bahamas (★ | 4/10)
Freeport is widely regarded as one of the worst cruise ports in the Caribbean, leading many cruisers to question why Carnival still includes it in itineraries. I must admit, arriving in the port felt more like visiting a built-up industrial area, not a tropical paradise. There’s not much to do, so it’s best to stay on board or book an excursion to a beach club or Lucayan National Park.
Choosing the Right Ports for Your Carnival Cruise
Every port offers a different experience—some are perfect for exploring, while others are best enjoyed with a planned excursion or even from the comfort of the ship. No matter where your cruise takes you, a little research goes a long way in making the most of every stop. Enjoy your adventure, and happy sailing!
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