21-night Western & Eastern Caribbean Cruise: Mexico & Leeward Islands

Originally a fort built by the U.S. Army in 1838, during the Second Seminole War, Ft. Lauderdale has little left of its warlike past. Instead the city welcomes visitors with broad beaches and an easy pace of life, plus convenient air and water connections that make the city a perfect place to visit.

Destination Guide

RelaxAway, Half Moon Cay is a private island in the Bahamas. Have you ever peered through water so clear? Sipped a tropical cooler in the shade of a palm tree? This private paradise has been designated a Wild Bird Reserve by Bahamian National Trust. When was the last time you whiled away the day on a private Caribbean island? Here's your chance. The island is yours to sun, swim, and sail. Here is a sample of activities: banana boat rides, deep sea fishing, glass bottom boats, parasailing, tropical kayak adventures, certified scuba diving, beach parties, treasure hunts and ice cream, paddle boats, sailboats, and hobie cats.

Destination Guide

Falmouth has often been compared to Colonial Williamsburg because of its 19th century Georgian architecture and plantation complexes. Visit the Greenwood Great House museum, and feel like you've stepped into the 19th century. Music and history lovers alike will be mesmerized by the Caribbean's finest antique collection as well as a rare collection of musical instruments. For those looking for a little outdoor fun, Falmouth has 30-foot bamboo rafts that offer romantic and adventurous rides on the Martha Brae River.

Destination Guide

Grand Cayman attracts most Cayman tourists, most of whom flock to Seven Mile Beach. Divers see abundant marine life. Gentle stingrays cluster at Stingray City. Rum Point serves up cinnamony rum punch. Spend an entire day floating in clear azure waters. At dawn, head out on a dive boat or tan on decadent Seven Mile Beach. Check out underwater sights without getting wet on a 100-foot descent on Atlantis Submarine or an 800-foot descent in a two-person sub to a shipwreck. Head to Hell, with its velour-clad devil, before zipping over to Turtle Farm. Grand Cayman's sparsely populated East End is refreshing with long streches of rocky coast. The oldest island structure is a castle rumored to have been built by pirates two centuries ago in Savannah. Blowholes offer awesome spots for picture of watery spires. Harborside George Town has tempting shops. Among popular nightlife spots are Ramada's Treasure Island and Island Rock. Hopping pubs include Lone Star Bar & Grill or My Bar on the shores of Sunset House.

Destination Guide

Mahogany Bay features clear blue waters, a long white sandy beach, and even a suspended chair lift to get you there. There are also a variety of watersport opportunities, a wide range of shops, and excellent restaurants. Shore excursions include kayaking, scuba diving, and snorkeling adventures.

Belize City is the largest city in Belize. It offers the visitor an unusual combination of rustic, old-fashioned Caribbean charm and bustling modernity. The Belize River meanders through the middle of the city; and twice a day, the city's swing bridge closes to allow sail boats to pass. There are many traditional street vendors selling fruits, vegetables, arts and crafts in the city's public squares, especially in the colonial marketplace on Saturday mornings. Visitors can purchase handmade wood furniture made by the Mennonite community and many kinds of craft items from the National Handicraft center, as well as from vendors who congregate near the Belize Commercial Center. Belize City is an excellent starting off point for visitors wishing to explore the country by car (or 4-wheel drive). There are several major tourist attractions an hour's drive or less from Belize City, such as the Belize Zoo, Monkey Bay Wildlife Sanctuary, Crooked Tree Wildlife Sanctuary, the Bermudian Landing Community Baboon Sanctuary, and the Mayan ruin site at Altun Ha.

Destination Guide

The island of Cozumel lies just twelve miles off the Yucatan Coast, a 45 minute ferry ride from the famed Riviera Maya. Dive into the crystal blue waters of Cozumel and discover why Jacques Cousteau called it the "best diving area in the world." Palancar Reef, the second largest in the world, provides an incredible diversity of species, stunning sites and visibility of at least 150 feet. Whether you're a first time snorkeler or an experienced diver, the intricate coral reefs and teems of painted fish will amaze you!

Destination Guide

Originally a fort built by the U.S. Army in 1838, during the Second Seminole War, Ft. Lauderdale has little left of its warlike past. Instead the city welcomes visitors with broad beaches and an easy pace of life, plus convenient air and water connections that make the city a perfect place to visit.

Destination Guide

The island of St. Martin is divided between French St. Martin in the north and Dutch St. Maarten in the south. Although the cultural flow transcends any borders, each side manages to retain its own distinct flavor. This 37-square-mile island promises beautiful vistas, first-rate water sports and stunning beaches. Philipsburg is the capital of Dutch St. Maarten. Its two main streets, Frontstreet and Backstreet, are bustling thoroughfares lined with shops and restaurants.

Destination Guide

The skyline of St. John's, the capital and largest city of Antigua and Barbuda, is dominated by the magnificently evocative white baroque towers of St. John's Cathedral. Built in 1845, the church is now in its third incarnation, as earthquakes in 1683 and in 1745 destroyed the previous structures. The towers are the first sight of Antigua for about half of the island's visitors each year, many of whom arrive by boat. St. John's is a lively hub for shopping and dining.

Destination Guide

With the island’s colonial background, the capital Roseau features both historic and modern buildings. Situated above town, on the slopes of Morne Bruce, are the beautiful Botanic Gardens with rare native and imported plants. The prominent 18th-century Fort Young is now part of the Fort Young Hotel complex.

Destination Guide

Castries is the capital of St Lucia, an independent Windward Island in the southeastern Caribbean Sea. What Castries may lack in sophistication it more than compensates for in its colourful Creole mood. Wander amid the lively street market with its fresh fruit, pottery and baskets. Then explore this most scenic of Caribbean islands, whose green mountains are draped in lush vegetation, and whose landmarks include the twin peaks of the Pitons rising sheer from the sea, the steaming sulphur springs of the 'drive-in' La Soufriere volcano and its unspoiled golden beaches. Further sights are to be seen at Diamond Falls and Mineral Baths where visitors can walk the gardens and take a dip in the pool under the waterfalls.

Destination Guide

Excursions

Essence of St. Lucia — Optional Private Excursions
Enjoy an authentic St. Lucian experience blending  the past and  present as you See, Taste and Smell the flavors of the island while discovering, exploring  and learning about life here in days gone by.
 
Depart your hotel/or Cruise Ship for Greenwood Terrace where you stroll through the gardens amidst tropical fruit trees and flowering plants growing in profusion.
See a Traditional Medicinal herb Garden and learn how our forefathers and local folklore used those herbs.
 
Travel back in time as you view the ancient “Platene” used in the making of Sugar and Farine (a by -product of Cassava – an Amerindian dish). See an “Old Styled Fowl Coop” (Chicken House), the outdoor cooking fireplace, and Clay Oven used for baking bread. Discover the secrets of local Coconut Oil and of Bay Rum, a by- product of the Bay Leaf  
 
Learn intriguing facts about our Traditional Creole Headwear and Dress. View a brilliant and interesting display of Historic artifacts depicting the Amerindian, European and African influences on our history.
 
Taste a variety of tropical fruits, island delicacies, local rums and much more.
 
An interactive experience which showcases the island and offers you a deep insight into the “Essence of St. Lucia.”

HIGHLIGHTS:
. Guided tour through herbal tropical garden
. Tour of the onsite museum
. Tasting of local fruits juices and delicacies

Tour Duration: 2.5 hours

Further Information
Resort and Cruise passengers will be met and escorted by a Barefoot Holidays Representative.

Flavors of St. Lucia — Optional Private Excursions
Enhance your visit to St. Lucia as you explore the island’s creole cuisine through a specially designed “Culinary Experience” and learn how over the years, St. Lucian folk lore combined and blended a fascinating number of herbs, vegetables and fruits into an array of cooked foods that must be tasted to be believed.
 
Participate in the preparation of the various dishes ……get involved in the process ….. Try your hand (if you wish) under the guidance of our expert island chef. See the transformation take place right before your very eyes. Enjoy the tasty dishes.
 
Take home not only fond memories of this authentic “Island Culinary Experience” but also those of a relaxing  walk through  the beautiful  garden , replete with an array of tropical fruits, flowering plants, a local medicinal garden. Visit to the onsite museum, and much more. A Hands On, Informative, Relaxing and Educational experience for all.
 
 
HIGHLIGHTS
· An authentic culinary experience
· Discover the secrets of authentic St. Lucian cooking
. Learn from a renowned island Chef
. Become a certified St. Lucian cook
. Enjoy a delicious meal
· Admire our onsite museum
· Visit a traditional herb garden and a walk amidst beautiful tropical flora and fruit trees
 

Duration – 3 hours

Basseterre, St. Kitts’ capital, still shows signs of colonial architecture. However, its setting against the emerald green hills ensures a distinct Caribbean ambiance. Many travelers agree Basseterre is one of the prettiest of the Caribbean’s small capitals.

Destination Guide

There are many ways to hunt for treasure in St. Thomas. You can discover its historic wealth in such places as the birthplace of painter Camille Pissarro or the infamous Bluebeard's Tower. Its sporting riches are tennis, golf, sailing and incredible beaches. Beneath its crystal-clear waters, you'll find coral gardens and shimmering schools of jewel-colored fish. Its fortune of earthly treasures can be found in the many shops of Charlotte Amalie, where savings on jewels, crystal, perfume and fine wines will arouse your hunting instincts.

Destination Guide

RelaxAway, Half Moon Cay is a private island in the Bahamas. Have you ever peered through water so clear? Sipped a tropical cooler in the shade of a palm tree? This private paradise has been designated a Wild Bird Reserve by Bahamian National Trust. When was the last time you whiled away the day on a private Caribbean island? Here's your chance. The island is yours to sun, swim, and sail. Here is a sample of activities: banana boat rides, deep sea fishing, glass bottom boats, parasailing, tropical kayak adventures, certified scuba diving, beach parties, treasure hunts and ice cream, paddle boats, sailboats, and hobie cats.

Destination Guide

Originally a fort built by the U.S. Army in 1838, during the Second Seminole War, Ft. Lauderdale has little left of its warlike past. Instead the city welcomes visitors with broad beaches and an easy pace of life, plus convenient air and water connections that make the city a perfect place to visit.

Destination Guide