Not every Western Caribbean island is paradise. While some ports offer postcard-perfect beaches and unforgettable adventures, others leave cruisers frustrated with crowds, scams, or limited things to do.
I’ve scoured Cruise Critic forums, Facebook discussions, Reddit threads, and real cruiser reviews to rank Western Caribbean islands from best to worst. Whether you’re after unforgettable snorkeling, thrilling adventures, or just a relaxing beach day, this guide reveals which islands impress—and which ones disappoint.
Keep in mind, preferences will vary. Some love busy ports with plenty to do, while others prefer quieter escapes. This ranking balances scenery, activities, convenience, and overall enjoyment.
Before you book your next cruise, find out which stops are worth your time and which ones cruisers say to skip.
Cozumel, Mexico
Cruise Lines: Carnival, Royal Caribbean, Norwegian, MSC, Disney, Holland America, and more
Best For: Beach lovers, snorkelers, scuba divers, history enthusiasts, and shoppers
Top Attractions: Chankanaab Park, Mr. Sancho’s Beach Club, San Gervasio Ruins, Tulum, Playa Palancar
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4.6/5)
Cozumel is one of the most popular cruise destinations in the Western Caribbean, and it’s easy to see why. Located off Mexico’s Yucatán Peninsula, this beautiful island offers everything from pristine beaches and world-class snorkeling to rich Mayan history and lively shopping districts. Whether you’re looking to relax by the turquoise waters, explore ancient ruins, or dive into the island’s famous coral reefs, Cozumel has it all.
Cruise ships dock at one of three piers: Punta Langosta, International Pier, or Puerta Maya. Most major cruise lines, including Carnival, Royal Caribbean, Norwegian, and MSC, make regular stops here. Cruisers will find everything they need on the island, with taxis, shore excursions, and duty-free shopping conveniently located near the port. If you’re planning to explore on your own, renting a scooter or jeep is a great way to see more of Cozumel at your own pace.
For beach lovers, Cozumel doesn’t disappoint. Many cruisers head to popular beach clubs like Mr. Sancho’s, Nachi Cocom, or Paradise Beach for an all-inclusive day of sun, drinks, and water activities. If you prefer a more natural setting, Playa Palancar offers stunning white sand and crystal-clear water without the crowds.
Snorkeling and diving are among the top activities here, thanks to the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef, the second-largest coral reef system in the world. Chankanaab Park, just a short ride from the cruise piers, is a great spot for snorkeling, swimming with dolphins, or simply enjoying the tropical scenery.
History buffs can take a ferry to the mainland to visit the famous Mayan ruins of Tulum or explore the smaller San Gervasio ruins right on the island. If you’d rather stay close to port, you can check out the Cozumel Museum to learn about the island’s rich cultural history.
Shopping is another major draw, with plenty of options for Mexican crafts, jewelry, and tequila right near the cruise terminals. Many cruisers love stopping by a local bar for a margarita and some fresh guacamole before heading back on board.
While Cozumel has a lot to offer, it’s worth noting a few drawbacks. The island can get crowded when multiple cruise ships are in port, and some of the more popular beaches and attractions fill up fast. If you’re looking for a quieter experience, consider heading to the less touristy east side of the island. Also, while Cozumel itself is very safe for tourists, it’s always a good idea to stick with reputable tour operators if you’re planning to take a ferry to the mainland for an excursion.
Highlights
- Stunning beaches with both lively beach clubs and quiet, natural shorelines
- World-class snorkeling and diving at the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef
- Close to Mayan ruins both on the island (San Gervasio) and on the mainland (Tulum)
- Great shopping for souvenirs, tequila, and Mexican crafts near the cruise piers
- Variety of excursions including dolphin encounters, ATV rides, and catamaran tours
Drawbacks
- Can get crowded when multiple ships are in port
- Tourist-heavy areas may have higher prices and pushy vendors
- Ferry rides to the mainland can be choppy, and some excursions require a long travel time
- Some beaches and attractions fill up quickly, so it’s recommended to book ahead
Grand Cayman, Cayman Islands
Cruise Lines: Carnival, Royal Caribbean, Norwegian, Disney, Holland America, MSC, Princess, and more
Best For: Beach lovers, snorkelers, scuba divers, and cruisers looking for unique wildlife experiences
Top Attractions: Seven Mile Beach, Stingray City, Rum Point, Cayman Turtle Centre, Dolphin Discovery, Pedro St. James Castle
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (4.4/5)
Grand Cayman is a standout in the Western Caribbean, known for its turquoise waters, pristine beaches, and world-famous snorkeling spots. Located south of Cuba, this island is part of the Cayman Islands, a British Overseas Territory.
Unlike many other cruise ports, Grand Cayman does not have a docking pier for large ships, meaning passengers must take a tender boat from the ship to shore. Once you arrive, you’ll find a well-developed port area with shops, restaurants, and easy access to taxis and excursions.
This island is particularly famous for Seven Mile Beach, often ranked among the best beaches in the world. If you’re looking for a relaxing beach day, you can grab a taxi or shuttle to one of the many public access points or beach clubs along this stretch of soft, white sand and turquoise water.
One of the most popular excursions for cruisers is Stingray City, where you can dip in shallow waters and interact with friendly stingrays. This unique experience is a must-do for many visitors and can be booked as a ship-sponsored tour or independently through local operators.
Snorkeling and scuba diving are also top activities in Grand Cayman, thanks to the island’s clear waters and vibrant coral reefs. Rum Point is another fantastic spot for a laid-back beach day with great food and drinks, away from the cruise crowds.
If you’re interested in history and culture, George Town, the capital, has several interesting sites, including the Cayman Islands National Museum and the colorful shopping district. Many visitors also take a short drive to Hell, a quirky rock formation that has a small gift shop where you can send a postcard postmarked from “Hell.” For those who love rum and chocolate, a stop at the Cayman Spirits Co. Distillery or the Tortuga Rum Cake Factory is a must.
One thing to keep in mind when visiting Grand Cayman is that it’s one of the more expensive cruise ports in the Caribbean. Also, since cruise ships use tenders here, getting back to your ship can take longer, especially in the afternoon when most passengers are returning.
Highlights
- Beautiful beaches, including world-famous Seven Mile Beach
- Stingray City, a one-of-a-kind experience to interact with stingrays in the wild
- Excellent snorkeling and diving with clear waters and colorful marine life
- Safe, clean, and well-developed with a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere
- Great shopping and local treats, including Tortuga rum cakes and duty-free goods
Drawbacks
- No docking pier, meaning you must take a tender boat to shore
- Higher prices for food, drinks, and excursions compared to other Caribbean ports
- Crowds in peak season, especially at Seven Mile Beach and Stingray City
- Lacks high-energy activities like zip-lining or off-road tours.
Roatán, Honduras
Cruise Lines: Carnival, Royal Caribbean, Norwegian, Princess, Holland America, MSC, and more
Best For: Beach lovers, snorkelers, divers, and nature enthusiasts
Top Attractions: West Bay Beach, Little French Key, Daniel Johnson’s Monkey and Sloth Hangout, zip-lining, Anthony’s Key Resort
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (4.1/5)
Roatán is a stunning island off the coast of Honduras, known for its lush landscapes, beautiful waters, and world-class snorkeling and diving. Unlike other Caribbean destinations, Roatán still has a laid-back, unspoiled feel, making it a great choice for cruisers seeking adventure and relaxation. The island is part of the vast Mesoamerican Barrier Reef, meaning marine life here is abundant, and the snorkeling and diving opportunities are exceptional.
Cruise ships dock at one of two main ports: Mahogany Bay, primarily used by Carnival Corporation lines (Carnival, Princess, Holland America, etc.), and Port of Roatán in Coxen Hole, which serves Royal Caribbean, Norwegian, and other cruise lines.
Both ports have plenty of shops and restaurants right off the ship, but many cruisers choose to travel beyond the immediate port area to experience the island’s natural beauty. Taxis and tour operators are readily available, making it easy to explore on your own or with a guided excursion.
One of the top attractions in Roatán is West Bay Beach, often considered one of the most beautiful beaches in the Caribbean. If you’re looking for a picture-perfect beach day, this is the spot. The calm, shallow waters make it ideal for swimming and snorkeling, with colorful fish visible just a few feet from shore. Many beach clubs offer day passes with lounge chairs, drinks, and access to facilities, making it a hassle-free option for cruisers.
For more adventure, Roatán offers unique excursions. Animal lovers will enjoy Little French Key or Daniel Johnson’s Monkey and Sloth Hangout, where you can interact with sloths, monkeys, and other wildlife. Zip-lining through the jungle provides stunning island views, while snorkelers and divers can explore vibrant coral reefs at Anthony’s Key Resort—even swimming with dolphins.
While Roatán is a breathtaking destination, there are a few things to keep in mind. The island is not as commercialized as some other Caribbean ports, which is part of its charm, but it also means that infrastructure can be less developed in certain areas. Roads can be bumpy, and traffic slows when multiple ships are in port. While generally safe, it’s best to use reputable tour operators and avoid straying too far off the beaten path.
Highlights
- World-class snorkeling and diving at the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef
- Gorgeous beaches, with West Bay Beach being a top choice for cruisers
- Fun animal encounters, including sloths, monkeys, and dolphins
- Exciting adventure activities like zip-lining and ATV tours
- Less commercialized than some Caribbean ports, offering a more natural feel
Drawbacks
- Limited infrastructure means some roads can be rough and traffic can be slow
- Can get crowded when multiple ships are in port, especially at popular beaches
- Some areas are underdeveloped, so it’s best to book excursions with reputable operators
- Occasional pushy vendors in tourist-heavy areas
Jamaica
Cruise Lines: Royal Caribbean, Carnival, Norwegian, MSC, Princess, Holland America, and more
Best For: Adventure seekers, beach lovers, nature enthusiasts, and food lovers
Top Attractions: Dunn’s River Falls, Blue Hole, Mystic Mountain, Doctor’s Cave Beach, Seven Mile Beach, Luminous Lagoon
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (3.9/5)
Jamaica is one of the most vibrant and culturally rich destinations in the Western Caribbean. Known for its stunning beaches, thrilling excursions, and delicious cuisine, Jamaica offers a mix of relaxation, adventure, and local charm. However, while the island has plenty to love, there are also some important drawbacks that cruisers should know before visiting.
Depending on your itinerary, your ship may dock at one of three main ports: Montego Bay, Ocho Rios, or Falmouth. Each port offers its own unique attractions and experiences, but all provide easy access to Jamaica’s stunning scenery and famous warm hospitality.
Most major cruise lines include Jamaica in their Caribbean itineraries. For adventure, Dunn’s River Falls in Ocho Rios lets you climb a cascading waterfall and cool off in its pools. Mystic Mountain offers zip-lining and a bobsled ride inspired by the Olympic team, while Blue Hole provides a more secluded swimming and waterfall experience.
For beach lovers, Doctor’s Cave Beach in Montego Bay is a great choice, with calm waters and a lively atmosphere. Those stopping in Falmouth can head to Bamboo Beach Club or making the trip to Negril’s Seven Mile Beach, famous for its soft white sand and crystal-clear water. Jamaica is also home to the world-famous Luminous Lagoon, where the water glows at night due to natural bioluminescence—an unforgettable experience for cruisers staying late in port.
Food and music define Jamaican culture, and no visit is complete without trying some jerk chicken or a plate of ackee and saltfish, the national dish. Many cruisers opt for tours that include stops at the famous Appleton Rum Estate, where you can sample some of Jamaica’s best rum. Shopping for souvenirs is also popular, with plenty of vendors selling handcrafted goods, Blue Mountain coffee, and island-inspired jewelry near the ports.
While Jamaica has plenty to offer, there are a few things to keep in mind. Some areas can feel crowded when multiple ships are in port, and like in many tourist-heavy destinations, you may encounter pushy vendors. While Jamaica is generally safe for visitors, it’s always a good idea to stick to organized excursions or well-traveled areas. Also, transportation can be hit or miss, so plan ahead and leave plenty of time to return to your ship.
Highlights
- Stunning beaches, from Montego Bay to Negril’s Seven Mile Beach
- Adventure excursions, including waterfalls, zip-lining, and river tubing
- Rich culture and music, with reggae playing everywhere you go
- Delicious Jamaican cuisine, including jerk chicken and rum tastings
- Unique attractions, like the glowing Luminous Lagoon
Drawbacks
- Pushy vendors in tourist-heavy areas can be overwhelming
- Traffic and transportation can be unpredictable, so plan ahead
- Some excursions require long travel times, especially from Falmouth
- Can be crowded when multiple cruise ships are in port
Harvest Caye, Belize
Cruise Lines: Norwegian Cruise Line, Regent Seven Seas, Oceania Cruises
Best For: Beach lovers, poolside relaxation, water sports, zip-lining, and nature experiences
Top Attractions: Seven-acre beach, massive pool with swim-up bar, zip-lining, wildlife sanctuary, mainland Belize excursions
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (3.8/5)
Harvest Caye is Norwegian Cruise Line’s private island destination in Belize, offering relaxation and adventure in a beautifully designed tropical setting. A long pier allows ships to dock directly, making it easy for passengers to step off and explore right away. Designed as a self-contained resort-style port, it features a massive pool, a white sand beach, and plenty of activities for cruisers to enjoy Belize’s natural beauty.
This destination is exclusively visited by Norwegian Cruise Line, Regent Seven Seas, and Oceania Cruises. One of the biggest draws of Harvest Caye is its seven-acre beach, complete with complimentary lounge chairs and a variety of watersports.
If you prefer pools over the ocean, the island has a 15,000 sq ft. (1,400 sq m) swimming pool with a swim-up bar and private cabanas available for rent. The lush tropical landscaping and laid-back vibe make it easy to unwind, whether you’re sipping a cocktail or taking a dip in the water.
For cruisers looking for more adventure, Harvest Caye offers a range of excursions, including zip-lining over the island, paddleboarding, and kayaking in the lagoon. Nature lovers will enjoy the wildlife sanctuary, home to colorful macaws and Belizean butterflies, while thrill-seekers can try the Superman-style zip line that soars across the island. If you want to see more of mainland Belize, excursions to Mayan ruins, river tubing, and jungle adventures are available but require a ferry ride.
Unlike some cruise line private islands, Harvest Caye does not offer an included buffet or food service from the ship. Instead, there are on-island restaurants and bars serving local Belizean cuisine, fresh seafood, and tropical drinks, though these come at an extra cost. Shopping is another big draw, with an open-air market featuring local crafts, souvenirs, and duty-free items.
While Harvest Caye is a beautiful and well-developed destination, it’s important to note that everything on the island costs extra, from food and drinks to activities like kayaking and zip-lining. Though ideal for relaxation, some cruisers may miss free perks and easy access to Belize’s top attractions. That said, if you’re looking for a stress-free beach day with modern amenities, it’s a fantastic stop on any Norwegian itinerary.
Highlights
- Easy access, with a pier allowing ships to dock directly (no tendering)
- Gorgeous beach and massive pool, offering plenty of space to relax
- Exciting activities, including zip-lining, water sports, and nature encounters
- Local shopping and dining, with Belizean flavors and handcrafted souvenirs
- Excursions available to mainland Belize for Mayan ruins and jungle adventures
Drawbacks
- Food and drinks are not included, unlike other private islands
- Most activities cost extra, including water sports and zip-lining
- Limited free amenities, making it feel more like a resort than an all-inclusive cruise stop
- Mainland excursions require a ferry ride, adding travel time to some adventures
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