Nieuw Amsterdam - March 23, 2025 (7 Nights)

When one thinks about a Caribbean or a Bahamas cruise, it is usually assumed that Miami is the departure point, but the northern suburb of Fort Lauderdale has its own modern port facility and has rapidly become a favored jumping off point for ships taking vacationers to exciting tropical destinations. And the beaches, nightlife and colorful restaurants in this city are enough to keep everyone occupied and happy both before and after the cruise itself. A nice mix of South Florida bustle and quieter southern atmosphere is a good way to describe this vibrant city. Its 23-mile stretch of white sand beach is as inviting as any to be found elsewhere.

Vacationers departing from Fort Lauderdale embark at the modern, full service facility at Port Everglades. Only a ten minute taxi ride from both downtown and the Fort Lauderdale International Airport, the dock areas have a number of visitor information centers, vending machines and ATMs, as well as a small number of kiosks stuffed with see-and-do brochures and restaurant advertisements. The complex is also the busiest section of the commercial dock area and there is plenty of security around to make sure passengers are guided to the area where the cruise ships anchor. Most departures are at the Midport and Northport areas of the terminal facility.

First of all it is imperative to get away from the dock area, which is heavily congested and offering little in the way of entertainment. The sand beaches of town are the favorite draw, and although they have been immortalized as the popular spring break destination for college students, they are actually quite clean, family-friendly and have undergone some major renovations in the past few years. New lighting for nighttime beach activities, landscaping improvements and the addition of many new shops and restaurants along the waterfront has completely transformed this glorious stretch of coastline. A great walking tour of the city would not be complete without a stroll along the Intercoastal Waterway, running directly through the city center. Downtown has a new flavor with the cropping up of boutiques, antique shops and upscale restaurants. One of those restaurants is the Mangoes on E. Las Olas Blvd. - a traditional Miami restaurant in its design as well as in its offerings that center around combination lunch and dinner plates including both steak and seafood. Another favorite is the 15 Street Fisheries, located naturally on 15th Street and considered the finest chowder house in the area. Those who want a bit more exotic experience can try the famous Jungle Queen Riverboat. It has drawn visitors for six decades and takes visitors on an inland sightseeing cruise as well as offering nighttime dining on board. Those who have come with families can try two and a half mile boardwalk on Hollywood Beach, known for its low-key atmosphere and street performers.

Aside from the local favorites already mentioned, there are a number of smaller establishments along the waterfront that offer everything from pizza to seafood stews and hot dogs. La Bonne Crepes on Las Olas Blvd has a yummy breakfast of waffles, French toast and mouthwatering crepes. The H2O Cafe on South Fort Lauderdale Beach Blvd is famous for its Italian cuisine and serves up pasta, chicken and barbeque beef with a Cuban influence. Its outdoor seating area is in full view of the beach activities and is perfect for an evening meal while exploring the waterfront.

Most of the cruise lines will have shuttle service to and from downtown for their passengers regardless of whether they have confirmed reservations at one of the local hotels. For vacationers arriving at the airport there is a free shuttle to Port Everglades itself, and rental cars can be booked ahead of time and picked up either at the airport or in downtown.

Internet cafes are numerous throughout downtown Fort Lauderdale and of course there is Internet connection and WiFi at the airport. Although there are a number of banks that can exchange U.S. dollars for foreign currencies, it is best to wait until arriving at individual Caribbean ports, as many of these destinations will be full of merchants accepting American money, thus helping to save tremendously on exchange fees.

One of the most spectacular destinations in all of the Bahamas, Half Moon Cay is a privately owned island held by the Holland America cruise line. It is situated approximately 100 miles south of the city of Nassau and is accessible only by one of the cruise ships making stops throughout the Bahamas. Holland America proudly operates these cruises in partnership with private companies licensed to operate businesses on the island, and promotes these vacations to those who want to get away from the hustle and bustle of the major communities. Half Moon Cay is truly a getaway spot, where one can imagine being king or queen of his or her own personal paradise.

Half Moon Cay is largely natural area, with few docks and piers. The cruise ship anchors in the bay and all passengers are ferried ashore by small tender vessels, bringing visitors directly to the beach area and docking at modern arrival piers on the waterfront. The tourist shops and souvenir stores are located on this section of beach, where there is also a large restaurant and areas where organized recreation is overseen.

Over 90 percent of Little San Salvador Island (another name for Half Moon Cay), which has a total land area of only 2.8 square miles, is unspoiled and totally natural. The entire island is a wild bird preserve and beach strolling while enjoying the many avian species is a favorite activity. Holland America operates many recreational activities as well, and visitors to the island can rent a catamaran, sailboat, view board or traditional surfboard while visiting. The beach recreation facilities include a volleyball and tennis court, basketball court, shuffleboard area, fitness trail and exercise stations. Several hiking trails lead from the activities center to various parts of the island, and for the more adventurous, jet skis and snorkeling equipment can be rented. The bay itself is well-protected from strong ocean currents, making Half Moon Cay very family-friendly in terms of swimming and relaxing on inflatable rafts. The Stingray Adventure Program offers guided tours for swimmers and snorkelers and is operated by experts that bring the world of undersea life up close and personal with tourists. The souvenir shop is simple but complete with locally made items such as straw hats, belts, sunglasses, sandals and photography supplies.

The beach restaurant at Half Moon Cay offers cruise visitors an exciting blend of international cuisine, with the large Food Pavilion organized in cafeteria style. There are a number of open air dining shelters. Fresh fruit, buffet-style menu and a full service bar make for an enjoyable lunch or dinner while visiting the island. There is a complete restroom facility, shower station and changing room area located at the Food Pavilion.

Because of its small size, the Half Moon Cay area is basically for foot travel. The island has no highways or long surface roads and all of the activities take place at or depart from the main docking areas. Long walks on the beach or strolls along the hiking trails are the only transportation needed in this beautiful, tiny paradise.

Most purchases can be billed to the passenger account aboard ship, so using currency while on the island is unnecessary. The operators of the shops and recreational facilities at Half Moon Cay speak English as well as several European languages. The island is promoted as a getaway vacation, so there are no hotels, Internet cafes or other city conveniences. Passengers can make emergency international calls from aboard ship if necessary. Half Moon Cay is a place to relax and forget about the outside world.

Cayman Islands consists of 3 islands, of which the Grand Cayman is the largest. Grand Cayman island also hosts George Town, which is the capital of Cayman Islands. Seven Mile Beach, located on the west coast of George Town, is regarded as one of the best beaches in the world. George Town is a beautiful and alluring area of the Cayman Islands with much to offer to travelers from all around the world. Most travelers find George Town an exciting port of call when cruising the Caribbean.

Cruise ships usually anchor in the harbor; after that the passengers are transferred to either Northern or Southern cruise ship dock of George Town port. It's very convenient because both of these docks are located right in the center of George Town and you can start enjoying all that this beautiful island has to offer right away.

George Town offers a fascinating plethora of activities and attractions, including three within immediate walking distance from the port - the Cayman Islands National Museum, the Cayman Maritime Treasure Museum and the remains of Fort George, a fortress built in 1790 to protect the harbor. Those who enjoy multimedia shows may also wish to consider a visit to the Pedro Saint James Castle, which is a stone structure created in 1780, much of which was preserved in its natural state and is now host to hourly multimedia displays. Another place you may want to visit is the Queen Elizabeth II Botanic Park. There is much to observe in these famous gardens and it is not uncommon to come face to face with endemic blue iguanas when walking one of the many nature trails of this 1900s Cayman sand garden and farmhouse. You should also stop by Seven Mile Beach - an amazing beach that is perhaps the most popular spot of cruise travelers.

There are a number of outdoor cafes and restaurants located directly on the shore, many of which can be seen when pulling into port. In addition, local eateries such as the Sunset House and Breezes by the Bay are located in downtown George Town. Those who enjoy contemporary international fare may wish to visit the Bacchus Restaurant and Wine Bar where the menu changes on a daily basis. For an alternative experience, one may visit the Sapphire Lounge, the island's only authentic martini lounge. One can choose from an impressive 225 different cocktails and over 125 unique martini creations. For those who find the cozy atmosphere of a genuine Irish Pub enjoyable, Fidel Murphy's Irish Pub is the perfect choice. Vacationers who prefer a sports bar will not want to miss a trip to Legendz, the busiest and most popular sports bar on the island.

Although many walkable shopping and dining areas lie throughout the George Town harbor, areas such as Seven Mile Beach and many of the bars and lounges are not within walking distance. However, getting around George Town is not difficult as taxis are readily available at the cruise docks and at every resort. In addition, bus transportation is available and the Grand Cayman public bus system is an excellent way to transverse the island for a nominal fee. Buses are easily identified by blue license plates and daily service typically starts at 6am.

The Cayman Islands has its own currency named Cayman Island Dollar. A US dollar is worth about 80 cents in Cayman dollars. You can, however, use US dollars for pretty much all your shopping and meals. The official language is English. Should you need to use the internet, you can easily find cafes and shops in George Town center that offer wifi service.

Cozumel is Mexico's most famous tropical island resort and is located off the coast of the Playa del Carmen on the Yucatan Peninsula. Every year hundreds of cruise ships ferry travelers, honeymooners, and adventure seekers alike from all over the world to this beautiful Caribbean island. Ancient Mayan ruins and natural reefs compliment Cozumel's immaculate coastline. You don't even need to travel far from the port to walk along the island's near-perfect beaches or explore its lush tropical landscape.

Three piers serve cruise ships passing through Cozumel. The primary docking terminal lies at Punta Langosta, located on the shores of the island's only city, San Miguel de Cozumel. But the International Pier and Puerta Maya to the south of Punta Langosta also see plenty of cruise ship traffic throughout the year. No matter where you arrive and disembark for the day, Cozumel's prime attractions are very accessible on foot, or by taxi, which is the most useful way to get around the city.

If you happen to be in the mood for an adventure, look no further than the San Gervasio Mayan ruins only a few miles east of San Miguel. In fact, Cozumel is home to many ancient Mayan landmarks that are over 2,000 years old. But the San Gervasio ruins take the prize as the largest ancient structures left standing on the island. The Plaza del Sol is another attraction you have to see while docked in Cozumel. This retail complex provides cruise ship travelers with plenty of opportunities to find the perfect souvenir. Locally known as 'zocalo', Plaza del Sol houses shops, which sell jewelry, clothing, handcrafted products as well as other memorabilia. One of the most popular activities on the island is the Palancar Reef. From San Miguel follow the shoreline south on the Rafael E. Melgar Boulevard in order to find Cozumel's world-renowned snorkeling and diving waters. Water sports like sailing and surfing have a strong following as well on the island's long, pristine beaches. You can take part in all kinds of outdoor activities while on Cozumel. For example, Chankanaab National Park services over a million visitors each year. Both snorkeling and diving, especially into the infamous underwater Chankanaab Caves, are very popular activities in Cozumel.

While there are a number of restaurants within walking distance of the cruise ship terminal, a short taxi cab ride into the heart of San Miguel can give you a better feel for the wide range of dining options. Mexican and Caribbean cuisines are the most common ones. Cozumel's fresh seafood is very popular and is a major attraction in town and out on the beach.

Once you set foot on Cozumel, many of the island's best amenities are located within walking distance from the dock. But a large number of visitors opt to get around the island by taxi. If you happen to be the adventurous type, you can rent a vehicle for the day. But it is advised that first time visitors stay close to San Miguel since many of the island's inland rural roads are isolated and may be in poor condition.

While the official currency is peso, most shops accept (even prefer) US dollars. Also, almost all shops have English speakers in case you don't know Spanish. There is also a calling station (located at Plaza Orbi - Local 1, Av. Rafael E. Melgar 27) that you can use for Internet or for making an international phone call.