9 Nights Eastern Caribbean Cruise: My Amazing First Experience
Embarking on a 9 nights Eastern Caribbean cruise was a life-changing adventure, and I’m thrilled to share my unforgettable journey with you.
My first experience cruising was introduced to me by my amazing friend, Kim, and it truly opened my eyes to the wonders of the Caribbean.
For an affordable price range of $600-$800 per person, I had the opportunity to explore five stunning destinations, all while having my room and board taken care of.
It was the perfect combination of relaxation, adventure, and luxury.
Table of Contents
Destinations
In summary, the destinations covered are:
- Saint Thomas, Virgin Islands: Known for its crystal-clear waters, vibrant culture, and beautiful beaches.
- Saint Marteen, Netherlands Antilles: A unique blend of French and Dutch influences, offering an exciting atmosphere and stunning coastline.
- Antigua & Barbuda, West Indies: A peaceful paradise with serene beaches, rich history, and natural beauty.
- Tortola, Virgin Islands: Lush landscapes, friendly locals, and ideal for nature lovers looking for an idyllic escape.
- Dominican Republic: A perfect mix of cultural heritage, sandy beaches, and adventure for a memorable getaway.
Carnival Sunshine Experiences
When choosing a cruise, the Carnival Cruise line stood out for its affordability and family-friendly atmosphere. It’s known for its fun, lively, and social environment, making it perfect for young families, singles, or anyone looking for a spirited cruise.
While Celebrity Cruises is more serene and calm, Carnival brings a high-energy vibe, with plenty of kids and families on board.
I found the food and service exceptional, with a focus on providing an experience that is both luxurious and personal.
My favorite dishes were the Guy’s Burger, French Toast, and Chocolate Lava Cake! We usually enjoyed lunch at the buffet and had early dining at 6 pm, where we could order as many gourmet dishes as we liked.
One of my favourite moments was relaxing in the steam room and sauna, where I could enjoy some privacy while the rest of the ship’s guests were out exploring.
9 Nights Eastern Caribbean Cruise Itinerary
Here’s a quick look at the 9 nights Eastern Caribbean cruise itinerary that took me on this unforgettable journey:
- Day 1: Departure from Charleston, South Carolina
- Day 2 & 3: At Sea
- Day 4: Saint Thomas, Virgin Islands
- Day 5: Saint Maarten, Netherlands Antilles
- Day 6: Antigua & Barbuda
- Day 7: Tortola, Virgin Islands
- Day 8: Dominican Republic
- Day 9 & 10: At Sea
Saint Thomas, Virgin Islands
Our first stop, Saint Thomas in the Virgin Islands, was nothing short of breathtaking. We spent the day snorkeling and swimming in the crystal-clear blue waters.
This was my first experience with the Caribbean’s beautiful waters, and it left me in awe. Seeing the vivid blue from the balcony of the ship was something I will never forget— water does something to our souls.
You can check my Instagram post here.
Saint Maarten, Netherlands Antilles
Our next stop was Saint Maarten, where I had a truly memorable adventure. The locals assured me that the passport office was just 5 minutes away, but it turned into a 40-minute hike through industrial areas.
As I passed containers, I couldn’t help but imagine all the hidden stories they might hold. The hike was an unexpected adventure, and once I finally reached my destination, I got my passport stamped and explored a nearby beach. The cool breeze and stunning views made it all worth it.
Antigua & Barbuda
In Antigua & Barbuda, the crystal-clear water was even more beautiful than I could have imagined. We took a cab to a nearby beach where we spent the day soaking up the sun, drinking fresh coconut water, and enjoying the tropical breeze.
Afterward, we got our passports stamped and had the chance to meet Akem, a bright young boy whose house had tragically burned down. We bought some of his handmade jewelry to support him. It was a heartwarming moment that added a personal touch to the trip.
You can view my Antigua Instagram post here.
Tortola, Virgin Islands
Our next stop was Tortola, which is home to some of the world’s most famous private islands, including those owned by billionaires like Larry Page of Google and Richard Branson of Virgin Airlines.
Kim and I took a 20-minute walk to get our passport stamps at the local post office, enjoying the peaceful atmosphere of this quiet island. It was a relaxing day filled with beautiful views and some exploration.
Take a look at my Tortola experience on Instagram here.
Dominican Republic
The Dominican Republic was my favorite stop. I hiked for 45 minutes through lush greenery to reach the stunning waterfall.
The hike was exhilarating, and the waterfall itself was an incredible sight. This stop also marked my 77th country visited, and it felt like an amazing milestone.
After the hike, we had the option to purchase photos of us splashing around in the waterfall. It was a truly unforgettable experience that I will cherish forever.
Conclusion
My first 9 Nights Eastern Caribbean Cruise was truly an awakening experience. It sparked a sense of adventure in me that I never knew existed, and I’ve been hooked on cruising ever since.
If you’re craving more incredible travel experiences, be sure to check out my article about my Mediterranean Cruise experience. It was another unforgettable journey, filled with rich culture, breathtaking sights, and luxury at its finest. You won’t want to miss it!
