This winter, why not trade snow and cold for sun and sand as you sail around the Caribbean?
Pristine beaches and bustling ports await when you disembark, while the ships themselves offer thrilling water slides, cozy reading lounges, and so much more.
Whatever your idea of relaxation, and whatever your budget, these winter cruises offer the best floating getaways you can find right now.
SEE ALSO: 9 rookie mistakes to avoid on your first cruise
Royal Caribbean
Cruise: 7-Night Eastern Caribbean Cruise on Allure of the Seas.
Itinerary: Round-trip from Fort Lauderdale, Florida, to Nassau, Bahamas, to Charlotte Amalie, St. Thomas, to Philipsburg, St. Maarten.
Dates: Select dates in January and February 2016.
Price: Starting at $878.50.
A behemoth so big it encompasses seven distinct “neighborhoods,” Allure of the Seas is the world's biggest cruise ship. With capacity for up to 6,296 passengers, families enjoy this pristine ship for its world-class amenities: two FlowRider surf simulators, a zip line, an ice-skating rink, a carousel, and more. Entertainment is second to none onboard Allure, with dazzling water shows in the Aquatheater and performances of the just-added ABBA musicalMamma Mia!
Plan Your Trip: Visit Fodor’s Royal Caribbean International Guide
Ponant
Cruise: 7-Night Grenadine Islands Cruise on Le Ponant
Itinerary: Round-trip from Fort de France, Martinique, to Soufrière, St. Lucia, to Marigot Bay, St. Lucia, to Bequia, St Vincent & the Grenadines, to St. George’s, Grenada, to Carriacou, Grenada, to Tobago Cays, Grenadines, to Grande Anse d'Arlet, Martinique, to Fort de France, Martinique.
Date: February 13, 2016
Price: Starting at $5,520.
If you’re looking for a more intimate experience at sea, Le Ponant is the luxury yacht of your dreams. Welcoming only 60 guests on each sailing, Ponant is notable for cruises featuring decadent French service. Le Ponantstands out for its ability to reach ports that are inaccessible to larger ships, offering passengers the chance to experience a less commercial side of the Caribbean. And when it comes to cuisine, the ship brings the best of French cuisine to the seas with its two onboard restaurants serving multi-course meals with complimentary wine.
Plan Your Trip: Visit Fodor’s Ponant Guide
Crystal Cruises
Cruise: 7-Day Voyage from Miami to San Juan on Crystal Symphony
Itinerary: Miami, Florida, to Turks & Caicos to St. Barts to St. Kitts/Basse Terre, West Indies, to Tortola/Road Town, British Virgin Islands.
Date: December 12, 2015
Price: Starting at $2,045.
A gem of the high seas, Crystal Symphony is one of three ships in the Crystal Cruises fleet, and it delivers the line’s signature indulgent onboard experience. Far exceeding expectations, Crystal Symphony offers eight dining venues, including a Nobu Matsuhisa outpost; unlimited premium spirits and all gratuities are included in your booking rate. Improve your golf game with onboard lessons led by PGA-certified instructors, and then relax in the first and only feng shui–inspired spa at sea. For an even more relaxing evening, the ship offers the option to “order in” from any of the restaurants and dine alfresco on your balcony.
Plan Your Trip: Visit Fodor’s Crystal Cruises Guide
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