The Western Caribbean is a must-visit cruise destination for those who enjoy stunning beaches, Mayan history, and non-stop adventure. It’s also a prime spot for snorkeling and scuba diving, thanks to the magnificent Mesoamerican Reef that spans a significant area of the region.
Typically, cruises to the Western Caribbean embark from ports in Miami, New Orleans, Port Canaveral, Fort Lauderdale, or Galveston. Western Caribbean cruises often vary in duration and are generally more affordable compared to cruises in the Eastern Caribbean. Additionally, these cruises usually have less island-hopping due to a smaller number of islands in the region.
What Is the Best Time to Cruise to the Western Caribbean?
The Western Caribbean experiences warm weather throughout the year, with its hurricane season aligning with the rest of the Caribbean from June to November. The best time to visit is from December to April, as this period falls outside the hurricane season and tends to have more stable weather.
Read more: Weather in the Caribbean by Month
Where is the Western Caribbean?
The Western Caribbean is situated on the western side of the Caribbean Sea, extending westward from Florida and south of Cuba. This region includes islands such as Grand Cayman, Jamaica, Cozumel, Roatán, and the Belize Cayes. Additionally, it features locations on Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula, such as Costa Maya and Progreso, along with Belize, Honduras’ Bay Islands, Guatemala, and the western shores of various Caribbean islands.
What are the Western Caribbean Islands?
The Western Caribbean islands include Grand Cayman, Jamaica, Cozumel, Roatán, and Belize Cayes. Each offers unique attractions—Grand Cayman’s white sandy beaches, Jamaica’s vibrant culture, Cozumel’s popular reefs, Roatán’s scenic beauty, and Belize Cayes’ distinctive charm.
Map of Ports in the Western Caribbean Islands
Cruise ports in the Western Caribbean Islands
Below is a list of cruise ports in the Western Caribbean Islands:
Cozumel, Mexico
Cozumel is an exciting cruise port destination in the Western Caribbean. The island is known for its beautiful beaches, rich Mayan heritage, and excellent shopping. Cozumel has three cruise ports: Punta Langosta, Puerta Maya, and the International Cruise Terminal. The port where you’ll dock depends on the cruise line you are traveling with.
If you’re docking at the International Cruise Terminal, you’ll find yourself right at San Miguel. This is the largest city in Cozumel, known for its beautiful pastel-colored buildings and shopping destinations. Additionally, make sure to explore the city’s lively restaurant scene, celebrated for its authentic Mexican cuisine. If you’re arriving at Puerta Maya or Punta Langosta, a 15-minute journey is required to reach the city.
Cozumel is famous for its unique Mayan archaeological ruins. When your ship docks, you can explore sites such as San Gervasio and El Cedral. You also have the option of taking a ferry ride to the mainland, where you can explore larger sites such as Tulum and Chichén Itzá.
If snorkeling is your thing, Cozumel is a must-visit destination. Located within the Mesoamerican Reef, the island has plenty of snorkeling spots where you can admire stunning coral formations and vibrant fish.
Cozumel is also home to beautiful white-sand beaches with turquoise waters. To find these picturesque spots, you’ll need to travel a bit further south or east, since the areas near the ports typically have rocky shorelines.
Related article: discover the best things to do in Cozumel on a cruise day in port.
- Pier or tender: Pier
- Currency: Mexican peso (USD widely accepted)
- Language spoken: Spanish (English widely spoken)
Cruise lines docking in Cozumel: Aida Cruises, Azamara Club Cruises, Carnival Cruise Line, Celebrity Cruises, Costa Cruises, Cruise & Maritime Voyages, Crystal Cruises, Disney Cruise Line, FTI Cruises, Holland America Line, Hurtigruten, MSC Cruises, Norwegian Cruise Line, Oceania Cruises, One Ocean Expeditions, P&O Cruises, Phoenix Reisen, Plantours Kreuzfahrten, Princess Cruises, Regent Seven Seas Cruises, Royal Caribbean International, Sea Cloud Cruises, Silversea Cruises, TUI Marella Cruises, TUI Mein Schiff, Viking Ocean Cruises, Virgin Voyages.
Seasons when cruise lines dock in Cozumel: Year round
Grand Cayman, Cayman Islands
Grand Cayman is a stunning Western Caribbean Island gem with plenty of activities, beaches, and shopping opportunities. Grand Cayman’s port is split into three different piers, all of which are close to each other. The port is located right by George Town, the island’s largest city with plenty of restaurants and malls right by the shore.
Chances are that you’ll dock at the Royal Watler Cruise Terminal, a spacious open area with tour booths, taxis, and facilities. If this terminal is full, you will be directed to either the North or South Terminal, both of which provide sheltered areas and places to eat and shop nearby.
If you want to relax after a long cruise, the famous Seven Mile Beach is a 10-minute drive from the port. Snorkeling enthusiasts can explore nearby shipwrecks like the U.S.S. Kittiwake and The Gamma. If you’re traveling with a family, consider an excursion to Stingray City, Dolphin Discovery, or the Cayman Turtle Center.
The Queen Elizabeth II Botanic Park offers a perfect retreat for relaxation and soaking up the sun. Within the park, there are numerous areas to discover, and with some luck, you might even spot the endangered blue iguana. Keep in mind that the park is located on the island’s western side, which is a 40 minute drive from the port.
Related article: The Ultimate Guide to the Grand Cayman Cruise Port in George Town
- Pier or tender: Tender
- Currency: Cayman Islands dollar (USD widely accepted)
- Language spoken: English
Cruise lines docking in Grand Cayman: AIDA, Ambassador Cruise Line, Aurora Cruises, Azamara Cruises, Carnival, Celebrity, Crystal Cruises, Disney, HAL, Marella Cruises, MSC Cruises, NCL, Oceania Cruises, Phoenix Reisen, Princess Cruises, Regent Seven Seas Cruises, Royal Caribbean, Silversea.
Seasons when cruise lines dock in Grand Cayman: Year round
Ocho Rios, Jamaica
Ocho Rios is a small town on Jamaica’s north coast. Once a bustling fishing village, the city has evolved into one of the most popular Caribbean cruise destinations. The city has two piers where cruise ships dock: Turtle Bay Pier and Reynolds Pier. Turtle Bay Pier serves as the main pier, capable of hosting two medium-sized cruise ships at once. Both piers are conveniently situated within walking distance of each other and near the city’s main attractions.
Dunn’s River Falls is one of the most sought-after excursions, located 2.1 miles (3.4 km) from the port. This picturesque waterfall offers visitors the chance to climb to its summit. There are two ways to ascend Dunn’s River: a dry climb and a wet climb. The dry climb allows you to walk alongside the falls, while the wet path involves walking through the falls. Make sure to bring a wetsuit as the water can get quite cold.
For a peaceful retreat after your cruise, head to Ocho Rios Bay Beach. Located right near the port, the beach has powdery white sand, clear waters, and plenty of nearby shops and restaurants. Access to the beach requires a small entry fee, payable in either USD or Jamaican dollars. Visitors will receive a wristband so they can re-enter the beach throughout the day.
Dolphin Cove is a must-visit spot that guarantees endless fun, only a 5 minute drive from the port. This popular attraction will give you the chance to swim with dolphins and enjoy a great show. Nearby, you’ll find Mystic Mountain—where thrillseekers can enjoy activities such as zip lining, bobsledding, and forest exploration.
For a bit of Jamaican history, consider visiting Sun Valley Plantation House, located 40 minutes from the cruise port. Here, guests can embark on a 90-minute tour of the historic plantation house, gaining insights into tropical fruit cultivation and the banana packaging and export process. Additionally, you’ll have the chance to observe hummingbirds in their natural habitat.
- Pier or tender: Pier
- Currency: Jamaican Dollar (JMD); U.S. Dollars often accepted but exchange to local currency recommended for small purchases.
- Language spoken: English is the official language; Jamaican Patois also widely spoken.
Cruise lines docking in Ocho Rios: AIDA Cruises, Aurora Cruises, Carnival Cruise Line, Costa Cruises, Holland America Line, Mein Schiff (TUI Cruises), MSC Cruises, Norwegian Cruise Line, Princess Cruises, Ruby Princess.
Seasons when cruise lines dock in Ocho Rios: Year round but the winter is the high season.
Falmouth, Jamaica
Falmouth is a popular Jamaican cruise port located right between Montego Bay and Ochos Rios. This charming Western Caribbean town is celebrated for its beautiful cobblestone streets, Georgian architecture, and array of shopping and dining choices. It’s a haven for thrill-seekers too, with nearby breathtaking waterfalls, caves, rivers, and lush forests.
The Falmouth cruise port opened in 2011 and is a joint effort between the local port authority and Royal Caribbean. Its unique triangular shape has two piers meeting at the end, allowing it to accommodate two large cruise ships at once. The port is a hub of activity, with a diverse selection of shops and restaurants where visitors can find everything from fine jewelry and fashionable clothing to cigars and authentic local crafts.
Exploring the historical town is a wonderful way to immerse yourself in Falmouth’s delightful atmosphere and uncover its colonial heritage. For those seeking adventure, Dunn’s River Falls is just a 12-minute drive from the port, providing breathtaking natural beauty. Alternatively, the Green Grotto Caves, a 40-minute drive away, offer a thrilling cave exploration experience.
Rum-enthusiasts can’t miss out on the Hampden Estate Rum Tour, only a 40 minutes’ drive from the port. This historic distillery, dating back to 1750, offers an insightful journey into the art of rum production. Visitors will have the opportunity to discover the rum-making process and taste various rums. You’ll also have the chance to explore the nearby sugarcane fields and the gardens surrounding the historic Great House.
- Pier or tender: Pier
- Currency: Jamaican dollar (USD widely accepted)
- Language spoken: English
Cruise lines docking in Falmouth: Carnival Cruise Line, Celebrity Cruises, Disney Cruise Line, Holland America Line, Princess Cruises, Royal Caribbean International.
Seasons when cruise lines dock in Falmouth: Year round but the winter is the high season and the most popular month is March.
Montego Bay, Jamaica
Montego Bay, situated on Jamaica’s northwest coast, is a vibrant city frequently dubbed the tourist hub of the island. The city is home to the second-largest cruise port in Jamaica, which can host up to four cruise ships at once. This port features a fully equipped terminal, a tour booth, duty-free shopping, restrooms, and a variety of dining options. The port—known locally as Montego Bay Freeport— is only a short drive from the city’s downtown area. You’ll find plenty of taxi drivers stationed outside the primary terminal.
Montego Bay is known for its world-famous beaches only a short distance from the cruise port. One of them is Doctor’s Cave Beach, famed for its sandy shores and turquoise waters. Slightly farther out lies Dead End Beach, situated right next to Sangster International Airport. Here, visitors can marvel at the sight of airplanes taking off and landing right by the shoreline.
Only 3.5 miles (5.6 km) from the port lies Bellefield Great House, a historic plantation house known for its beautiful gardens, views, and colonial architecture. Montego Bay is also a haven for golf enthusiasts, boasting four championship golf courses. Among these is the renowned Rose Hall Estate, situated just a 30-minute drive from the port. Additionally, for a unique cultural experience, the Rastafari Indigenous Village offers an insightful journey into the traditional lifestyle of the Rastafari people.
- Pier or tender: Pier
- Currency: Jamaican dollar (USD accepted in some areas)
- Language spoken: English
Cruise lines docking in Montego Bay: Princess Cruises, Marella Cruises, AIDA Cruises, TUI Cruises, Carnival Cruise Line, MSC Cruises, Viking Ocean Cruises, Holland America Line, P&O Cruises, Ambassador Cruise Line
Seasons when cruise lines dock in Montego Bay: Most cruise lines operating in the Port of Montego Bay, Jamaica are seasonal, focusing on winter months. In contrast, Carnival Cruise Line is the exception, operating year-round at this port.
Kingston (Port Royal), Jamaica
Kingston is the vibrant, bustling capital city of Jamaica on the island’s southeast coast. The city’s main cruise port, located in Port Royal, is found at the entrance to Kingston Harbour. SeaWalk, a floating pier system added in 2018, made it possible for cruise ships to dock at the port. In 2020, the Port Royal cruise port welcomed its first cruise ship, the Marella Discovery 2. If you’re cruising to Jamaica, chances are you won’t be docking at Kingston. Though you might find it on specific Western Caribbean cruise itineraries from Marella Cruises and Silversea.
Port Royal has an incredibly rich history, once holding the title of the largest city in the Caribbean. In 1692, an earthquake devastated Port Royal, killing thousands and destroying most of the town. The Sunken Pirate City is now home to these exquisitely preserved ruins.
You will find some interesting sites near the port, one of them being Fort Charles—remnants of a fort dating back to 1650. If you’re looking to relax and bask in the sun, consider an excursion to Lime Cay, an island ringed by stunning white-sand beaches. The most interesting attractions, however, are located on the mainland in Kingston. A brief 30-minute journey along Norman Manley Highway will take you into the heart of downtown Kingston.
Once you’re in Kingston, you’ll find plenty of things to see and do. One of the most interesting sites is the Bob Marley Museum, where you can discover more about the life and legacy of Jamaica’s iconic reggae artist. For those interested in history, Devon House is a must-visit destination. Built in 1881, this mansion was the home of Jamaica’s first black millionaire, offering a unique glimpse into the island’s past.
Kingston is known for its many museums and art galleries, perfect for those seeking to explore the city’s vibrant history and culture. If you’re wandering around downtown, make time to stop by the National Gallery of Jamaica, the largest art gallery in the English-speaking Caribbean. Here, you can view Jamaican art dating back to 1920.
Another unmissable attraction is the Trench Town Culture Yard Museum, the former Kingston home of Bob Marley and other reggae stars. Here, you can discover artifacts, music, an impressive mural, and even a statue of Bob Marley. Just a short distance away lies the National Heroes Park, a botanical garden ideal for relaxing after your cruise.
Many people are reluctant to leave the cruise ship in Kingston due to safety concerns. Indeed, some neighborhoods in Kingston have high crime rates. Despite this, if you stick to touristy areas during the day, chances are that you’ll be safe. Additionally, make sure not to show any valuable items such as jewelry, as pickpocketing is a common issue in the city.
- Pier or tender: Pier
- Currency: Jamaican dollar (USD accepted in tourist areas)
- Language spoken: English
Cruise lines docking in Kingston: Silversea Cruises, Marella Cruises, Seabourn Cruise Line, Oceania Cruises, Regent Seven Seas Cruises
Season when cruise lines dock in Kingston: Most of the cruises to Port Royal are scheduled during the winter and spring seasons. There are also a couple of cruises in the fall.
Harvest Caye, Belize
Harvest Caye is a private island located in southern Belize owned by NCL. The island was created in partnership with the Belizean government, with NCL hiring locals to work on the businesses onsite. Cruise ships dock at a pier located in the southern part of the island. From there, it’s a 5-10 minute walk to reach the main area.
Harvest Caye offers a variety of amenities and activities for endless entertainment. A highlight is the expansive swimming pool with plenty of lounge chairs and a swim-up bar. You’ll also find a saltwater lagoon and a kid’s splash pad nearby, surrounded by palm trees offering both shade and a calming, beachy atmosphere.
Cruise passengers can also treat themselves to a large, white-sandy beach with 3,000 loungers. For added shade, you can rent a clamshell for $30 a day. The beach also has hammocks for a more laid-back experience, though they’re in high demand and best secured early.
Thrill-seekers will love the 1300 ft long zipline, which starts at the lighthouse and runs across the island. As you zipline, you’ll get a bird’s eye view of the island and even catch a glimpse of Belize’s lush mainland. This activity comes with an extra cost, though it’s well worth it for the breathtaking views and exhilarating fun.
For a more secluded experience, you can pay extra for a beachfront cabana package. These cabanas can house up to six people, and offer everything from a TV, couch, mini fridge, bathroom, an outside shower, and more. If that’s not enough, you’ll also get access to a private beach area.
Adventure seekers can travel one hour to Belize’s mainland to explore some Mayan ruins hidden within the jungle. One of the most popular shore excursions is a trip to Nim Li Punit, a medium-sized site dating back to the 5th century AD. Nearby, you can explore Lubaantun, one of Belize’s largest Mayan ruins, famously said to be the possible site of a crystal skull.
There are some things to keep in mind when traveling to Harvest Caye. First, there’s no Wi-Fi available onshore. Also, your ship card can’t be used for transactions, and there will be an extra cost for food and drink.
- Pier or tender: Pier
- Currency: Belizean dollar (USD widely accepted)
- Language spoken: English
Cruise lines docking in Harvest Caye: Norwegian Cruise Line, Oceania Cruises, Regent Seven Seas Cruises
Seasons when cruise lines dock in Harvest Caye: Year round but the winter is the high season and the most popular month is February.
Roatán, Honduras
Roatán is an island off the coast of Honduras in the Western Caribbean. The island has plenty of things to do, making it a favored destination for those who love beaches, thrilling excursions, shopping, adventure, and snorkeling. The island has two cruise ports, one in Coxen Hole and the other in Mahogany Bay. They are located 5 miles (8 km) from each other.
Mahogany Bay is home to the largest and newest cruise port on the island. The port is owned by Carnival Corporation and can serve two large cruise ships at a time. A standout feature is its chair lift system, which takes passengers from the terminal to Mahogany Beach. Amenities such as restaurants, ATMs, shopping, car rental services, and kiosks are within walking distance from the port. Keep in mind that Mahogany Bay is quite isolated, so to truly experience Roatán you’ll need to venture further out.
If you’re traveling with a cruise line other than Carnival, chances are you’ll dock at the port of Roatán. The port of Roatán is located in Coxen Hole, the island’s largest town and capital. You’ll find ATMs, shopping, restaurants, tour booths, and free Wi-Fi right near the port. Ziplining, a popular activity for thrillseekers, is also available nearby. A popular shore excursion is a trip to Maya Key, only 0.6 miles (1 km) from the port. This secluded oasis offers two beaches, a pool, and even a gift shop.
Roatán is well-known for its secluded beaches with soft, powdery white sand and crystal-clear waters. Among these, West Bay Beach stands out as a favorite. Located on the southern part of the island, the beach is less than 40 minutes away from both cruise ports. You’ll find plenty of resorts, restaurants, and even a golf course nearby.
A popular shore excursion is a visit to Gumbalimba Park, situated 25 minutes from the port of Roatán and 45 minutes from Mahogany Bay. This eco park offers the chance to closely interact with free-roaming animals like macaws, monkeys, birds, and iguanas. Other park attractions include botanical gardens, waterfalls, a suspension bridge, and walking trails. Finish your visit with a stop at the park’s local gift shop and restaurant.
Little French Key is a privately owned island located right by the French Harbour. It’s a popular spot for snorkeling and relaxing by the beach. This island hosts a resort and has some caged and free-roaming animals, including monkeys, pigs, horses, and even tigers. This island retreat is located 23 minutes from the port of Roatán and 15 minutes from Mahogany Bay.
- Pier or tender: Pier
- Currency: Honduras Lempira (USD widely accepted)
- Language spoken: Creole English
Cruise lines docking in Roatán: Carnival Cruise Line, MSC Cruises, Norwegian Cruise Line, Royal Caribbean International, Celebrity Cruises, Princess Cruises, Holland America Line, Virgin Voyages, TUI Cruises, SilverSea Cruises, Oceania Cruises, Viking Ocean Cruises, P&O Cruises, Windstar Cruises
Seasons when cruise Lines dock in Roatán: Year round but the winter is the high season and the most popular months are January and February
Final Words
The Western Caribbean islands are a fantastic choice for a cruise vacation, boasting pristine beaches, rich Mayan heritage, and lots of exciting activities. By limiting your travels to just the Western Caribbean, you’re overlooking the rich experiences available in the Eastern and Southern Caribbean. These regions are equally remarkable and definitely worth exploring as well.
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