When it comes to Caribbean cruises, it's easy to conjure images of endless blue seas and golden beaches. But let me take you beyond the typical, into a world of unexpected delights and hidden treasures. Here are my handpicked top five Caribbean cruise experiences that promise more than just sun and sand!

5. The St. Kitts Scenic Railway: A Journey Through Nature's Wonderland

Our number five is a ride on the St. Kitts Scenic Railway in St. Kitts and Nevis. This charming, historic railway offers not just breathtaking views of the coastline but an immersive experience into the heart of the island. Picture this: golden and black sandy beaches, lush palm trees housing playful wild monkeys (there are more monkeys than people on St. Kitts), all from the comfort of a scenic, open-air train. Though our journey started off a little rainy, that didn’t stop the fun! The trip was made even better by local folk dancers and free rum punch. Our excursion culminated in a catamaran ride back to town (with more rum punch and some great music).

4: Exploring Historic Old San Juan, Puerto Rico

Fourth on the list is the exploration of Old San Juan in Puerto Rico. Wandering through the streets lined with Spanish colonial architecture leads you to the imposing Castillo San Felipe del Morro. This historic fortress not only offers a lesson in Puerto Rico's past but also provides breathtaking views of the surrounding sea – a perfect blend of history and views. The scenery is stunning, the food and drink plentiful, and the history powerful. Excursions are always available through the cruise line (or your trusty travel agent), but I found that Google Maps and a list of the places I wanted to see worked great!

3: Swimming with Stingrays in Grand Cayman

Third is something that turned fear into admiration. Things that swim terrify me – including stingrays. But when in Grand Cayman I’m told everyone has to visit Stingray City. This shallow-water sand bar in the Caribbean Sea is home to hundreds of not-so-domesticated stingrays. The shallow waters of Stingray Island, teeming with friendly stingrays, offer a unique opportunity to feed, pet, and even hold these creepy-yet-lovable creatures. On my excursion, we sailed out to the “island” and spent some quality time with the marine life, feeding, petting, and even holding the stingrays! Though it took some getting used to, by the end of our time on Stingray City, it became one of my favorite things I’ve ever done in the Caribbean.

2: Serenity at Cane Garden Bay, Tortola

At number two, the serene beach of Cane Garden Bay in Tortola stands out. Beaches are plentiful across the islands of the Caribbean, but my favorite has to be Cane Garden Bay. Unlike the bustling beaches of tourist hot-spots, this quaint, shallow bay was filled with crystal clear blue water and surrounded by lush greenery. After a quick (cramped) cab ride over the mountain (don’t look down!), we found someone willing to let us rent a beach chair at $20 for the day. That beach chair came with bar service and fresh piña coladas all day long, with views that made my heart skip. The proximity to a historic rum distillery, crafting spirits from local sugarcane, added a flavorful twist to the experience. Tortola isn’t on most Caribbean cruise itineraries, but if you happen to find one that visits the island, go!

1: A Golf Cart Adventure in Bonaire

Topping the list is my favorite day ever in the Caribbean. At first glance, the island of Bonaire isn’t what you’d typically expect from a Caribbean cruise port. It’s more of a desert island than a tropical paradise, but that doesn’t mean it isn’t without some of the most breathtaking scenery and beautiful wildlife in the world. A quick golf cart rental next to the cruise pier came with a map, some quick directions, and a friendly send-off. The island itself offers art, wild flamingoes, and beautiful beach outposts. Renting a golf cart allows for a personalized island tour at your own pace, revealing artistic nooks, stunning beaches, and untouched natural beauty, and the island is small enough that a breezy golf-cart drive is the perfect way to see it.

There’s much more to see, do, and eat throughout the Caribbean, and it’s very hard to whittle my experiences down to a top 5. But these port days are some of my favorites, and I have no doubt you’d enjoy them, too. Ready for your Caribbean adventure? Contact me for a free consultation, and let's chart a course for your dream cruise!