which is a better cruise?

I recommend the Southern Caribbean. It's got a nice mix of beaches and rain forests. It typically also has the most number of ports on a 7-day itinerary, not to mention that Puerto Rico (usually the main embarkation port) and St. Thomas (a popular stop on a Southern Caribbean cruise) are a real treat). It is hands down the best place to cruise during the winter time. Temperatures during the day are around the low-to-mid-80s. At night it is still really pleasant, as it stays around the low-to-mid-70s (although at sea it may feel a little cooler. A light sweater is a good idea, even though I've never had to use one). The water is warm and nice, and it is typically the driest time of the year, seeing as you're out of the monsoon(summer) season, as well as the hurricane season (June 1st through November 31st). Rainstorms are usually warm and short-lasting in the winter (about 10 to 20 minutes), and you occasionally get them only 1 or 2 times a day. A torrential downpour during the winter time is usually uncommon, but it does happen on occasion. It is usually mostly sunny or partly cloudy, but always warm, no matter what.

As for cruise lines to the Southern Caribbean, I've always thought Princess had the best itineraries. Prices are really comparable right now with cruise lines, so no matter which one you choose, it's going to be pretty close in price. Princess also has the more upper-class ships, I think. Royal Caribbean is traditionally for the more active type of people, while Princess and Celebrity are reserved for those who want a more romantic, quieter, yet still fun vacation. I'm going on a Southern Caribbean cruise this December with Princess, and I'm looking forward to it!

If you are also unsure of what to pack and what to bring, I have a detailed list of what to bring. Feel free to ask and I'll gladly e-mail it to you. It is always a good idea to bring the bare-minimum on a cruise. For instance, don't bring a blow dryer, since they already have those.

If you're going on a cruise, now would be the time. Prices are so low with airfare and the cruises, it's crazy!

I would also recommend flying to your departure port the day before (especially if it's San Juan). You then aren't racing to the port, worrying about flight delays, and you get to spend more time exploring the island or city. You also aren't jet-lagged and tired for the sail-away party. For an extra $150 for a hotel, I'd say it's worth it.

Good luck, be safe, and have fun!

I've done both and loved it all. It's just fun to plan to eventually do both. The Southern is also an amazing cruise.

I think the Eastern ports are better. Not so much poverty and prettier scenery. More to do and cleaner.

bahamas