Antigua Cruises

Set Sail for Paradise: Discover Antigua

Welcome to Antigua, the beautiful Caribbean destination known for its stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant culture. With 365 beaches—one for each day of the year—Antigua is a sun-seeker's paradise! This idyllic island boasts a rich history and a blend of British and Caribbean influences, reflected in its unique architecture, world-class sailing events, and delicious local cuisine. Cruising to Antigua allows you to explore its picturesque harbours, engage with friendly locals, and experience the captivating rhythm of island life. Fun fact: Antigua was once a significant naval base for the British Empire, which is evident in its well-preserved historic sites like Nelson’s Dockyard.

Top Major Cruise Lines to Antigua

• Princess Cruises: With a fleet of 17 ships, Princess Cruises features eight vessels including the Caribbean Princess and Regal Princess that frequently dock in Antigua. This cruise line is beloved for its excellent onboard amenities, including movies under the stars, exceptional dining options, and immersive shore excursions. The view from the top deck is something special as you approach the beautiful shores of Antigua. Departures are usually from popular ports like Fort Lauderdale and San Juan, making it convenient for cruisers seeking a delightful getaway.
• P&O Cruises: This cruise line operates a fleet of seven ships, with five—including the Britannia and Azura—offering itineraries that feature the stunning beaches of Antigua. Known for its mix of British elegance and Caribbean vibrancy, P&O Cruises excels in providing a family-friendly cruise experience with engaging activities for every age group. They typically embark from Southampton and other major ports, catering mainly to cruisers travelling from the UK and beyond.
• Cunard: Cunard's fleet of four ships includes three that travel to Antigua, namely the Queen Mary 2, Queen Elizabeth, and Queen Victoria. Renowned for their luxury experience, these ships provide exquisite dining, refined accommodations, and exceptional service. Knowing that you are sailing on vessels steeped in maritime tradition adds to the allure of your Caribbean cruise. Major departures take place from international ports like Southampton, offering a sophisticated handover to the beautiful Caribbean.
• Royal Caribbean: With a vast fleet of 30 ships, Royal Caribbean offers eight vessels—including the Symphony of the Seas and Anthem of the Seas—that frequently visit Antigua. This cruise line is perfect for families and adventure-seekers alike, boasting features such as surf simulators, rock climbing walls, and Broadway-style shows. Expect vibrant entertainment options onboard, so your time doesn’t feel limited when you are not exploring beautiful Antigua. Departures generally occur from popular ports like Miami and Fort Lauderdale, allowing cruisers easy access to the Caribbean.
• Holland America Line: This esteemed cruise line has 11 ships, four of which offer itineraries to Antigua. Vessels like the Eurodam and Nieuw Amsterdam provide elegant experiences with an emphasis on cultural immersion. Guests can enjoy fine dining, art collections, and cooking classes, making every moment of the cruise a memorable one. Holland America typically embarks from international ports such as Fort Lauderdale or San Juan, ensuring that everything is catered to the sophisticated traveller.

Luxury and Small Ship Cruising Opportunities

• Explora Journeys: This luxurious cruise line has a fleet of two ships, both of which travel to Antigua. EXPLORA I and EXPLORA II prioritise wellness and sustainable luxury cruising, offering a focus on relaxation and rejuvenation. Expect stunning design, exceptional service, and thoughtfully curated itineraries that showcase the best of the Caribbean. These ships generally depart from San Juan or Miami, providing a convenient start for cruisers eager to explore Antigua.
• Azamara Cruises: With a fleet of four ships, Azamara boasts three vessels that sail to Antigua, including Azamara Journey and Azamara Quest. Known for their immersive experiences and longer port stays, Azamara offers more in-depth explorations of Antigua's historical sites and stunning beaches. Departures typically occur from San Juan or Miami, ensuring a hassle-free start to your laid-back Caribbean adventure.
• Silversea: This luxury cruise line operates a fleet of 12 vessels, five of which offer itineraries to Antigua. Silver Shadow and Silver Ray are prominent choices, renowned for their sophisticated service and spacious accommodations. With a crew-to-guest ratio that ensures attentive service, cruisers can expect a truly opulent experience. Departures generally happen from Bridgetown or San Juan, connecting you to the beautiful Caribbean seamlessly.
• Oceania Cruises: With eight ships, Oceania features six that sail to Antigua, with Nautica and Insignia leading the charge. Known for its culinary excellence, Oceania takes pride in offering top-tier dining experiences onboard while exploring local flavours during shore excursions. Cruises depart from major ports like Miami or Barcelona, allowing cruisers diverse travel options before reaching Antigua.
• Viking Ocean Cruises: With a fleet size of 11 ships, Viking offers one vessel, the Viking Sea, that includes Antigua in its itineraries. Known for its cultural enrichment programs and comfortably intimate environment, Viking caters to discerning travelers. Departures typically occur from San Juan, providing easy access to this serene and beautiful Caribbean destination.

Top 4 Harbours to Explore in Antigua

• Antigua, Antigua and Barbuda: This vibrant capital is where all the action happens. While in port, visit the National Parks, including Nelson's Dockyard, a UNESCO World Heritage site, rich with history and unique architecture. Walk through the charming streets lined with shops and cafes or relax at one of the many stunning beaches. If you have time, catch a local bus to the lively St. John's Market, where you can sample local foods and find unique crafts.
• St. John's, Antigua and Barbuda: The bustling capital, St. John's, is a perfect blend of culture and relaxation. Explore the local shops, sample delicious Caribbean cuisine, or visit the impressive St. John's Cathedral. Venture to the historic Fort James, where you can soak in coastal views, or indulge in a refreshing swim at Dickenson Bay, just a short distance away from the port.
• English Harbour, Antigua and Barbuda: Renowned for its great natural harbour and rich maritime history, English Harbour is a must-see. Visit Nelson's Dockyard for a rich glimpse into Antigua's sailing past and enjoy dining at local waterfront restaurants. If time allows, consider a sailing lesson or join a guided boat tour to explore hidden bays and secluded beaches nearby.
• Falmouth Harbour, Antigua and Barbuda: This charming harbour is famous for its friendly atmosphere and is home to some of the Caribbean's most luxurious yachts. Wander through the charming streets and enjoy dining at delightful beachside restaurants. If you're lucky, you may catch a glimpse of yachting competitions or events, depending on the season!

Additional Harbours to Explore Near Antigua

• San Juan, Puerto Rico: The bustling capital is often the first stop for cruises heading to Antigua. While docked, enjoy the stunning sights of El Morro and the colourful streets of Old San Juan. Wander through the vibrant neighbourhood, tasting local delicacies like mofongo and sipping on piña coladas before your cruise continues.
• Bridgetown, Barbados: Known for its rich history and stunning beaches, Bridgetown is a popular port that offers numerous excursions. When your cruise visits this port, take the time to explore the UNESCO World Heritage site of Historic Bridgetown, including impressive sites like St. Nicholas Abbey. Sample delicious rum punch at a local bar before heading back to the ship!
• Philipsburg, St. Maarten: This lively capital seamlessly blends Dutch and French influences. While in port, relax on the pristine Great Bay Beach, shop in the bustling Front Street, or enjoy some mouthwatering Caribbean cuisine at a local restaurant. The beach bars are perfect for unwinding with a cocktail after exploring.
• Miami, USA: Often a departure point for many Caribbean cruises, Miami offers an incredible blend of cultures and attractions. If your cruise begins or ends here, take a moment to explore the art deco district in South Beach, stroll through Little Havana, or spend a day at the beautiful Vizcaya Museum and Gardens before venturing to the serene shores of Antigua.

Best Times to Cruise to Antigua

Antigua shines throughout the year, but specific seasons offer distinct advantages. From January to March, temperatures typically range from 24°C to 28°C, making it ideal for beach lovers and sun seekers. This time period also coincides with peak travel season, providing lively events and cultural experiences. The months of April to June see slightly warmer temperatures of around 26°C to 30°C while offering a chance to explore a more tranquil atmosphere away from the crowds. The warmer summer months, July to September, have temperatures rising to 30°C, but also bring the possibility of occasional rain showers. Nevertheless, you can enjoy vibrant local festivals and events during this time.

Costs of Cruising to Antigua

Cruising to Antigua presents various budget options. A typical one-week cruise generally starts around $1200, while a two-week journey can range from $2200. For those seeking a more luxurious experience, expect prices starting from $4000 for a week. Dining options in Antigua are relatively affordable, averaging around $15 to $30, while drinks generally cost between $3 to $8, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in local flavours without worry!

Alternative Regions Worth Considering for Your Next Cruise

If Antigua captivates your interest, consider these alternative regions:

• Caribbean: With countless beautiful islands, the Caribbean offers stunning beaches, inviting waters, and vibrant cultures—each destination rich in unique charm and activities.
• Bahamas: Known for its breathtaking beaches and crystal-clear waters, the Bahamas is ideal for relaxation, water sports, and indulging in local cuisine.
• British Virgin Islands: Renowned for their sailing opportunities, these islands provide idyllic landscapes, secret coves, and vibrant nightlife, perfect for a tropical getaway.
• St. Lucia: Known for the majestic Pitons and lush rainforests, St. Lucia offers a blend of stunning natural beauty and exciting outdoor activities, enhancing your Caribbean escape.
• Turks and Caicos Islands: This paradise is famous for its beautiful beaches and coral reefs, perfect for soaking in the sun and engaging in snorkeling adventures.

Ready to explore the breathtaking beauty of Antigua? With Cruise1st, your dream cruise experience awaits. Book your adventure today!