Yes, you can here is Your Ultimate Guide to cruising from the UK to the Caribbean in 2025 & 2026.
If you’ve ever dreamed of sailing from the UK to the Caribbean, you’re in luck! Cruise ships offer an exciting way to travel across the Atlantic Ocean, combining luxury, adventure, and exceptional port visits along the way. Whether you’re looking for a 2-week cruise, a segment of an ultimate world cruise, or a relaxing transatlantic cruise, this guide will cover everything you need to know.
From the best cruise lines to itineraries, pricing, duty-free shopping, and onboard entertainment, we’ll help you plan your cruise holidays for 2025 and 2026.
Can You Cruise from the UK to the Caribbean?
Yes! A transatlantic cruise from the UK to the Caribbean is a fantastic way to explore multiple ports of call while enjoying world-class entertainment and exceptional service onboard. These cruises generally depart from Southampton, stopping in various Caribbean cruise ports before heading back or continuing to New York City.
This voyage is ideal for travelers who love sea days, luxurious cruise packages, and unique shore excursions while avoiding long-haul flights.
How Long Does a UK to Caribbean Cruise Take?
A cruise from the UK to the Caribbean usually takes 12 to 15 days, depending on the cruise line and specific itinerary. Some itineraries include additional port calls in Europe, the Canary Islands, or Bermuda before reaching the Caribbean islands.
Popular cruise lines offering transatlantic cruises include:
- Princess Cruises (including the Sky Princess)
- Cunard Line (Queen Mary 2)
- P&O Cruises
- MSC Cruises
- Royal Caribbean International
Each cruise line offers different experiences, from luxury products and formal dining to thrilling onboard activities and casual atmospheres.
UK to Caribbean Cruise Costs – How Much Spending Money Do You Need?
The cost of a 2-week cruise from the UK to the Caribbean varies based on the cruise line, cabin type, time of year, and promotions.
Typical Cruise Costs (Per Person, Based on Double Occupancy):
| Cruise Line | Inside Cabin ($) | Balcony Cabin ($) | Suite ($) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Princess Cruises | 1,500 – 2,500 | 2,500 – 5,000 | 5,000+ |
| Cunard (QM2) | 1,500 – 3,000 | 3,000 – 6,000 | 7,500+ |
| P&O Cruises | 1,500 – 2,500 | 2,500 – 5,000 | 5,500+ |
| MSC Cruises | 1,500 – 2,000 | 2,000 – 4,500 | 4,500+ |
| Royal Caribbean | 1,500 – 2,500 | 2,500 – 6,000 | 6,500+ |
Additional Costs to Consider:
- Shore excursions ($50 – $250 per port)
- Beverage packages ($40 – $100 per day)
- Gratuities ($14 – $20 per day)
- Duty-free shopping (watches, jewelry, cosmetics)
- Casino spending (if applicable)
To get the best deal, book early, look for cruise shop save promotions, and consider off-peak sailing dates.
Popular UK to Caribbean Cruise Itineraries
Example 1: Cunard’s Queen Mary 2 – Southampton to New York & the Caribbean
- Departure Port: Southampton, UK
- Stops: Southampton → New York City → Antigua, St. Lucia, Barbados
- Duration: 15-17 days
This transatlantic cruise allows you to enjoy the luxury of Cunard’s QM2, spend time in New York City, and explore Caribbean cruise ports.
Example 2: P&O Cruises – UK to Caribbean and Back
- Autumn Itinerary (14-15 days): Southampton → Gran Canaria → Tortola → Basseterre → Fort-de-France → Barbados
- Spring Itinerary (13-15 days): Barbados → Castries → Basseterre → St. John’s → Southampton
These round-trip cruise holidays allow travelers to explore multiple islands before returning to the UK.
Best Caribbean Cruise Port Day for Shopping & Sightseeing
1. St. Thomas – Best Shopping for Duty-Free Watches & Jewelry
- Best for:Duty-free shopping, high-end jewelry, designer brands
- Shops to Visit:A.H. Riise, Diamonds International, Little Switzerland
- Tax Savings: No sales tax, making it one of the best shopping destinations. Download your FREE St. Thomas Cruise Port Map and Shopping Coupons. Click Here.
2. St. Maarten – Caribbean Shopping Paradise
- Best for:Electronics, watches, designer handbags
- Shopping District:Front Street, Philipsburg
- Top Stores:Ballerina Jewelers, Jewels by Love, Little Switzerland. Download your FREE St. Maarten Map with Shopping Coupons. Click Here.
3. Barbados – Boutique Luxury & Unique Finds
- Best for:Local rum, fine jewelry, and designer watches
- Shopping Area:Broad Street, Bridgetown
- Top Stores:Del Sol, Cariloha, Diamonds International. Download your FREE Barbados Cruise Port Map and Shopping Coupons. Click this link.
4. Antigua – Hidden Gems for Tax-Free Shopping
- Best for:Luxury products, unique timepieces, and leather goods
- Shopping Area:Heritage Quay
- Top Stores:Sterling’s Watches & Jewelry, Diamonds International. Donwload your FREE Cruise Port Map and Shopping Coupons by clicking on this link.
What to Expect Onboard a Transatlantic Cruise?
Cruising across the Atlantic Ocean includes several sea days, but you won’t get bored! Expect world-class entertainment, fine dining, and exclusive shopping experiences onboard.
Onboard Activities:
✔ Theaters & Broadway-style Shows – Enjoy spectacular productions featuring professional singers, dancers, and even West End-style performances in grand theaters. Some ships also offer movie screenings under the stars for a unique outdoor cinema experience.
✔ Pools, Cruise Ship Spas, and Wellness Centers – Unwind in luxurious pools and whirlpools or book a treatment at the onboard spa. Many ships feature thermal suites, hydrotherapy pools, salt rooms, and even snow grottoes for the ultimate relaxation. Indulge in massages, facials, and body wraps using high-end luxury products like Elemis and La Mer.
✔ Enrichment Lectures & Workshops – Expand your knowledge with expert-led lectures on topics such as history, art, astronomy, and Caribbean culture. Some cruises even feature guest speakers from the Royal Geographic Society, NASA, or renowned authors. For hands-on experiences, join workshops in photography, painting, or cooking.
✔ Cooking Classes & Wine Tastings – Many cruise lines offer hands-on culinary experiences led by top chefs. Participate in wine tastings, whiskey pairings, or cocktail-making masterclasses to refine your palate while enjoying views of the open sea.
✔ Duty-Free Shopping – With no sales tax, transatlantic cruises are perfect for duty-free shopping. Browse boutiques for luxury watches, fine jewelry, designer handbags, cosmetics, and premium spirits. Onboard shopping events often include exclusive discounts, raffles, and even expert-led seminars on gemstones, Swiss watches, and beauty products.
✔ Casino Nights & Cocktail Lounges – Feeling lucky? Try your hand at blackjack, poker, or roulette at the onboard casino, with professional dealers and tournament nights. Enjoy live music, piano bars, martini tastings, and specialty cocktails crafted by award-winning mixologists.
✔ Fitness Centers & Sports Activities – Stay active with state-of-the-art gyms featuring panoramic ocean views, personal training sessions, yoga, and Pilates classes. Some ships also have rock-climbing walls, mini-golf courses, and even surf simulators for adventure seekers.
✔ Afternoon Tea & Gala Nights – On luxury cruises, don’t miss the elegant afternoon tea service with freshly baked scones, finger sandwiches, and a selection of fine teas. Formal nights and themed gala evenings allow guests to dress up and experience sophisticated dining and entertainment.
✔ Social Events & Dance Classes – Many cruise ships offer dance lessons, from ballroom to salsa, as well as trivia games, karaoke, and mixology competitions. These activities are perfect for meeting fellow travelers and making new friends.
With so much to do, sea days become a highlight of the journey, allowing guests to fully immerse themselves in exceptional service, world-class entertainment, and luxurious relaxation before arriving at stunning Caribbean cruise ports.
Transatlantic Cruises: Best Time of Year to Sail
The best time of year for a transatlantic cruise UK to the Caribbean is typically spring (March – May) and autumn (September – November).
Why These Seasons?
- Spring Cruises: Perfect for escaping cooler UK weather and arriving in the Caribbean just in time for summer.
- Autumn Cruises: Great for travelers looking to avoid hurricane season while enjoying warm Caribbean breezes.
Tip: Avoid peak hurricane season (August – early October) for the smoothest sailing experience.
How to Get the Best Deal on a UK to Caribbean Cruise?
- Book Early: Prices rise as departure dates approach.
- Look for CruisePackages: Some cruise lines offer all-inclusive cruise packages with flights and shore excursions.
- Check for Last-Minute Deals: If you have flexibility, you can find best deal offers closer to sailing.
- Sign Up for Cruise Shop Save Alerts: Get latest blogs, port shopping guide, and free maps to maximize savings. Sign up now!
Conclusion: Is a UK to Caribbean Cruise Worth It?
A cruise holiday from the UK to the Caribbean is an unforgettable experience, offering a relaxing voyage, exciting port visits, and plenty of duty-free shopping along the way. Whether you’re interested in luxury products, world-class entertainment, or the best shopping, a transatlantic cruise provides the ultimate guide to adventure and relaxation.
🚢 Ready to set sail? Get your FREE maps and exclusive cruise deals now by clicking here!
🌴 Bon Voyage! 🌴
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