Caribbean Cruises

Cruise Specialists staff member, Matt Reich recently returned from a family cruise on Royal Caribbean’s Wonder of the Seas with his wife and two children and provided a wonderful recap of their experiences. If you are considering a family cruise, this post provides some valuable insight. Travel Date: 12/23/23 | Ship: Royal Caribbean’s Wonder of the Seas | Duration: 7 Days Destinations: Cape Canaveral, Perfect Day at CocoCay, Cozumel, Roatan, Costa Maya Embarking on the Wonder of the Seas, the world’s 2nd largest cruise ship, behind the new Icon of the Seas, promised an unparalleled family vacation filled with excitement and relaxation. Our itinerary included stunning ports and an array of onboard activities, catering to both adults and children. Onboard Experience Stepping onto the ship for the first time was a jaw-dropping moment, setting the tone for an incredible journey filled with countless cherished memories. As first-time Royal Caribbean cruisers, we were immediately struck by the Wonder of the Seas‘ sheer size — an architectural marvel spanning 1,188 feet in length (more than 3 football fields) and accommodating up to 6,988 passengers across 18 decks. This colossal vessel offered a grandeur beyond expectations. The staff’s warm service, excellent food options, and kid-friendly activities truly stood out. Even with the number of passengers on this mega-ship, the staff remained friendly, knowledgeable, and committed to ensuring a pleasant experience. We were impressed with the level of service provided. Opting for an ocean-view balcony for our family of four, we appreciated the stunning views and quiet moments of tranquility on our balcony. We were also glad our stateroom was at the aft of the ship, offering easy access to dining, entertainment, and recreational areas. This convenience made our stay even more enjoyable. Sea days were a delightful mix of relaxation and adventures. The variety of onboard activities ensured there was always something fun to do. From waterslides to acrobatic performances, the ship brimmed with activities for all ages. The thrilling shows and a diverse range of entertainment options meant there was never a dull moment. However, our family also cherished the time spent on our private balcony, reading and soaking in the serenity of the ocean. Endless Culinary Delights With over 20 dining venues, the Wonder of the Seas offers a diverse culinary journey, from traditional southern dishes at The Mason Jar to Mexican flavors at El Loco Fresh. The variety of restaurants made dining an exciting adventure. One of our favorite places to go was Izumi, offering delicious sushi rolls and fresh sashimi for lunch and dinner. The pizza at Sorrentos was another family favorite. And of course, a morning stroll to Starbucks on deck 5 was a perfect start to the day. Additional Wonders about Wonder of the Seas Advanced Technology: Wonder of the Seas offers very reliable high-speed Wi-Fi. Even for a family of four, we were able to take advantage of using our devices on the ship without an issue. The Royal Caribbean app was also very useful for scheduling shows, viewing the daily agenda, making dinner reservations, booking shore excursions and keeping track of our expenses. You can even chat with family and friends while on board using the app. We found the technology helpful and easy to use. Aquatic Extravaganza: Adventure seekers can revel in the ship’s 10-story Ultimate Abyss slide, the tallest at sea, two FlowRider® surf simulators and dare to conquer the twisting, turning, adrenaline-pumping waterslide trio, The Perfect Storm. There is also a two-story poolside bar and plenty of loungers for those opting for a more relaxed pool day. Port Impressions: Efficient embarkation and disembarkation processes marked each port. No lines, no stress—just beautiful destinations waiting to be explored. Each port brought its unique charm and excitement, but we really loved Perfect Day at CocoCay, Royal Caribbean’s private island. There are plenty of things to do on the island that are complimentary. We had the buffet for lunch (one of the five included dining venues) and thought the variety of dishes was a wonderful treat. We also enjoyed a dip in the ocean and soaking up some sunrays on the beach. If you have a drink or Wi-Fi package, your access is included on the island too. Beach time while in port at Roatán   Enjoying our time in Costa Maya and Roatán Overall, we had a terrific time and highly recommend family cruises on Wonder of the Seas. It is not always easy to plan a family vacation that checks all the boxes for kids and adults alike, but we found a delightful way to create unforgettable memories and spend quality time together while on this impressive ship. Embark on your own Caribbean cruise and let the Wonder of the Seas redefine your vacation expectations. It’s a journey that promises both relaxation and excitement for the entire family.   See Royal Caribbean cruises to the Caribbean >> ... Read more

When most people picture a cruise to the Caribbean, they envision a massive ship carrying thousands of people pulling up alongside a sun-splashed island paradise. The fact remains that not all Caribbean cruises are created equal, and those seeking a more relaxed, premium, even luxury in experience in the Caribbean have plenty of options to choose from. Here are four cruise lines you may not know offer cruises to the Caribbean.   Cunard Line Cunard Line may best be known for its Transatlantic Crossings aboard the superlative Queen Mary 2. But every year, Cunard sends its massive flagship on voyages to the sun-splashed shores of the Caribbean. Like Crystal, Cunard typically sends Queen Mary 2 to the Caribbean during the high-season month of December. Sample sailings might include sailing roundtrip from New York aboard Queen Mary 2, on a 12-night Holiday Caribbean Cruise with ports of call on English Harbour; St. Kitts; Barbados; and Amber Cove. Sometimes Cunard also sends its smaller, but no less elegant, Queen Victoria on voyages to the Caribbean. Seabourn Chances are good that you’re aware ultra-luxury-line Seabourn offers cruises to the Caribbean. Past sailings with Seabourn in the Caribbean have been very diverse, from 10-day getaways to longer, multi-week voyages, combining itineraries in the eastern, western and southern Caribbean into a single journey. Think St. Croix; St. Kitts & Nevis; Antigua & Barbuda; and San Juan, Puerto Rico or any other number of inviting tropical ports. Star Clippers The Caribbean is the ideal stomping ground for European sailing line Star Clippers. Founded by Mikael Krafft, the Caribbean offers the “trade winds” that the line’s classy Royal Clipper and her smaller fleet mate, Star Flyer, need to cruise along under sail power alone. Sure, the auxiliary diesel engines are fired up every now and then to maintain schedule but for the most part, only the wind whistling between the ship’s sails and rigging can be heard on these romantic cruises to paradise. Star Clippers creates primarily week-long cruises throughout the Eastern and Southern Caribbean. To sail with Star Clippers to the Caribbean is to discover the Caribbean you never knew existed. The one you see in brochures, devoid of people, seemingly in existence just for you. Forget the lines and the crowds and the need to get up early to save that favorite deck chair; aboard Royal Clipper and Star Flyer, the magic of sail is alive and well, and nowhere is it better showcased than in the crystal-blue waters of the Caribbean. Viking Cruises Most will know Viking Cruises best for its Viking River Cruises arm that offers river journeys around the world, but as Viking brings more of its ocean liner fleet online, it is beginning to offer more and more itineraries in the Caribbean. Like the rest of the lines on this list, Viking operates a shorter Caribbean season that predominantly sets sail during the high-season months of November to February. What’s truly striking, however, is just how diverse Viking’s Caribbean itineraries are. From the Southern Caribbean to the Panama Canal to voyages that just explore Cuba, Viking’s Caribbean cruises are a veritable wish-list of best sun-drenched ports of call. Of particular note are the line’s eight-day voyages to Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula that call on Key West; Belize City; and Cozumel and Merida (Progreso), Mexico. The latter gets you close enough for a day excursion to the famed ruins of Chichen Itza, done in Viking’s own inimitable style. The Caribbean might be most popular with the big, mainstream cruise ships, but fans of small, niche, and luxury ships still have plenty to choose from in this sun-drenched paradise. Ready to find your own luxury Caribbean getaway? Let Cruise Expert Diane Ritchey put her 40 years of experience to work for you>>  ... Read more

Luxury Perfected is back at sea. By Luxury Perfected, we’re speaking of Regent Seven Seas Cruises’ incomparable Seven Seas Splendor. In November 2021, Senior Vice President Annie Scrivanich criused on a 7-night Eastern Mediterranean itinerary on board this intimate, spacious ship, and we look forward to providing more details in a future post. Here is a look at some initial observations about Seven Seas Splendor ship from when Annie set sail on one of its inaugural voyages in February 2020. —– Regent Seven Seas Cruises set a new standard in luxury in 2016 when it debuted “The World’s Most Luxurious Cruise Ship,” Seven Seas Explorer. Regent took that elegance and glamour a step further in February 2020, with the debut of Seven Seas Splendor. Cruise Specialists was on board the first Explorer Class ship for an inaugural cruise out of Los Angeles, and we had the privilege of attending the christening event and 2-day christening cruise for Seven Seas Splendor in Miami. Regent Seven Seas Splendor, Miami, courtesy Regent Seven Seas Cruises Seven Seas Splendor is an all-suite, all-balcony ship catering to 750 fortunate guests. While its acres of Italian marble, $5 million art collection and 15 astonishing suite categories may draw the biggest headlines, its exceptionally low guest-to-crew ratio and high levels of personalized service may be what guests remember the most. It is a splendidly spacious ship, yet small enough to reach boutique ports larger ships cannot. This provides an additional layer of exclusivity for discerning travelers. Here are some of the exciting features of Seven Seas Splendor: All-Balcony Suites Suites are spacious and cozy. Layouts range from 307 to 4,443 square feet, and all include a furnished private balcony. Senior Vice President at Cruise Specialists, Annie Scrivanich, reported back from Seven Seas Splendor that four different designers were commissioned to decorate the suites. She toured all suite classes as part of her ship inspection and stayed in a B Penthouse Suite for the four-night inaugural voyage. Penthouse Suite, Seven Seas Splendor, courtesy Regent Seven Seas Cruises “From the excellent storage for long voyages, L’Occitane and Guerlain bath products, and extra touches such as binoculars, cashmere throws and two full length mirrors, Regent has thought of everything. I’m confident that our clients will feel pampered in any of the suite categories aboard this ship. The service is gracious and readily available but not obtrusive. They do anticipate your needs and deliver accordingly,” said Annie. The introductory-level Veranda Suite includes a signature European Queen Size Elite Slumber bed, lavish bath products and personalized in-suite mini-bar set up. The amenities certainly go up from there! At Concierge level, the beds are king-sized and guests receive luxuries only available at Concierge level and higher, such as an illy® espresso maker and cashmere blankets. Concierge Suite guests also receive a Free 1-Night Pre-Cruise Hotel Package, savings on premium wine and liquor, and other thoughtful amenities. Category D (Concierge Suite) Veranda, Regent’s Explorer Class, courtesy Maggie Blehert   Category D (Concierge Suite), Regent’s Explorer Class, courtesy Maggie Blehert   Category D (Concierge Suite), Regent’s Explorer Class, courtesy Maggie Blehert At the highest end of the suite spectrum, the incomparable Regent Suite is the pinnacle of style, indulgence and comfort. This suite features an in-suite spa retreat with unlimited treatments, one of the largest balconies at sea — with a custom-made Tresse Minipool — two spacious bedrooms, three walk-in closets, and a wealth of amenities such as a free personal car and guide to explore ashore. Entrance to Regent Suite, Regent’s Explorer Class, courtesy Maggie Blehert   The Regent Suite on Seven Seas Splendor and Seven Seas Explorer features an in-suite spa. Photo courtesy Maggie Blehert.   Regent Suite private outdoor area, courtesy Maggie Blehert Tip: The Regent Suite often sells out early. We suggest if you have an interest in experiencing it, to call us and learn more. Cuisine The impeccable dining venues on board are only matched by the masterful cuisine prepared by Regent Seven Seas Cruises’ amazing chefs. Following the success of Seven Seas Explorer, Seven Seas Splendor features eight dining venues, plus in-suite dining. Compass Rose, courtesy Annie Scrivanich Compass Rose is the largest specialty restaurant at sea and takes the concept of a traditional cruise dining room to the next level. It offers a multitude of choices to customize each meal. Chartreuse is a delightful French fine-dining experience. Maggie Blehert, a Cruise Specialists marketing team member, recalls a piping-hot soufflé au fromage that tempted her taste buds for the first course of her Chartreuse meal during Seven Seas Explorer’s inaugural voyage. Pacific Rim, Seven Seas Splendor, courtesy Annie Scrivanich Pacific Rim amazes guests from the moment they approach its entry, with an immense art installation of a mythical dragon. (Seven Seas Explorer boasts a different yet equally dramatic sculpture you simply need to see in person!) The perfect balance of flavors and Zen-like ambiance will leave you wanting more of this Pan-Asian restaurant. Additional exquisite choices await, and casual options are always available in the Pool Grill or the quaint Coffee Connection – which features a lovely al fresco seating area. The al fresco area is a new design aspect of the Coffee Connection that differs from Seven Seas Explorer. More Ship Highlights More highlights abound on this decadent ship. Blissful lounges with signature cocktails, a two-deck high theater with pleasing sightlines and high-energy shows, an infinity-edge plunge pool; a tranquil, extensive fitness area and spa; and other memorable features make this a home-away-from-home you won’t want to leave. The Culinary Arts Kitchen, with floor-to-ceiling windows, brings the destinations you’re visiting right to your own prestigious cooking school. Culinary Arts Kitchen, Explorer Class, courtesy Maggie Blehert Speaking of destinations, Seven Seas Splendor will take you from the turquoise beaches of the Caribbean to Europe’s most coveted ports. Across its fleet of five ships, Regent offers wondrous destinations around the world, and unlimited, free shore excursions. Their selection of more than 2,000 free excursions ensure you’re able to engage with local cultures, customs and interests in the destinations you’re visiting. With all these amenities and features, Regent is a luxury cruise line that gives its guests the best. Annie reinforces that like any travel experience, it’s the people who make the difference. “The onboard staff is exceptional: attentive, knowledgeable and non-intrusive, yet, readily available to be of service,” she said. Regent’s staff makes you feel welcome and pampered; courtesy Maggie Blehert Contact Us Today! Be sure to contact us if you have any questions about this vessel that truly speaks to many of our clients’ desires for intuitive service. Cruise Specialists Cruise Consultants Diane Ritchey and Carol Terhune have also cruised on board the newest class of Regent ships and are eager to share their expertise with you. Contact one of them or your own Cruise Specialists Cruise Consultant and begin planning a voyage on Seven Seas Splendor today. See cruise options from Regent Seven Seas Cruises, many of which include exclusive amenities from Cruise Specialists. Editor’s note: Regent Seven Seas Cruises’ amenities were current at the time of writing and are subject to change without notice.           ... Read more