Day 1 — Wed, Nov 26 | New York, NY (Embark)
Board at Brooklyn Cruise Terminal. If time allows, stroll Brooklyn Bridge Park or the Brooklyn Heights Promenade for skyline views. Unpack, explore the ship, and enjoy sail-away past the Statue of Liberty.
Days 2–4 — Thu–Sat, Nov 27–29 | At Sea Sea Days
Ease into the voyage with classic ocean-liner days: Afternoon Tea, enrichment talks, string quartets, spa time, ballroom dancing, and a gala evening. Book specialty dining and shore excursions.
Day 5 — Sun, Nov 30 | Philipsburg, St. Maarten (early morning–afternoon)
Vibe: Lively Dutch-French island with turquoise bays and duty-free shopping.
- Beach & Boardwalk: Water taxi to Great Bay Beach; swim, sun, and browse boutiques along the boardwalk.
- Island Panorama: French-side Marigot market, then up to Fort Louis for harbor views.
- Aviation Thrill: Quick hop to Maho Beach to watch aircraft descend over the sand (time permitting).
Tip: Save time for a fresh guava berry colada before re-boarding.
Day 6 — Mon, Dec 1 | Roseau, Dominica (early morning–afternoon)
Vibe: “Nature Island” of rainforests, waterfalls, and hot springs.
- Waterfall Pairing: Trafalgar Falls viewpoint and a soak in nearby hot mineral pools.
- Jungle & Gorge: Short hike and swim at Titou Gorge (narrow, luminous canyon).
- Snorkel Sparkle: Champagne Reef—bubbling volcanic vents create a unique underwater scene.
Tip: Wear water shoes for rocky entries; keep a dry set of clothes for the return.
Day 7 — Tue, Dec 2 | Bridgetown, Barbados (early morning–late evening)
Vibe: Sophisticated beaches, coral reefs, and rum heritage.
- Turtles & Wrecks: Catamaran to Carlisle Bay—gentle snorkeling over shallow shipwrecks with frequent turtle sightings.
- Heritage & Rum: St. Nicholas Abbey (great house, distillery, heritage railway) or a tasting at Mount Gay.
- Beach Afternoon: Lounge at Brownes or Accra Beach; finish with a sunset swim.
Tip: With a late departure, linger over a seaside dinner in the St. Lawrence Gap area.
Day 8 — Wed, Dec 3 | Castries, St. Lucia (tender • early morning–afternoon)
Vibe: Dramatic volcanic peaks and lush valleys.
- Pitons & Views: Scenic drive to Soufrière, then the Tet Paul Nature Trail for sweeping Piton panoramas.
- Sulphur & Springs: Drive-in volcano, followed by a mud bath and rinse at Toraille Waterfall.
- Snorkel Coves: Time-permitting stop at Anse Chastanet or Sugar Beach.
Tip: Tendering can add time—book ship tours or allow a buffer getting back.
Day 9 — Thu, Dec 4 | Basseterre, St. Kitts (morning–afternoon)
Vibe: Emerald hills, preserved forts, and golden arcs of beach.
- UNESCO Fortress: Brimstone Hill—impressive 18th-century fort with island-to-ocean views.
- Scenic Railway: Circle the island on the historic narrow-gauge train.
- Beach & Chill: South Friars Bay or Cockleshell; optional water taxi to Nevis for Pinney’s Beach.
Tip: Pair Brimstone Hill with a relaxed beach stop for a balanced day.
Days 10–12 — Fri–Sun, Dec 5–7 | At Sea Sea Days
Unwind on the sail back north: book that last spa treatment, enjoy Afternoon Tea, try a wine or whisky masterclass, catch a classical recital, and savor a final formal night.
Day 13 — Mon, Dec 8 | New York, NY (Disembark)
Breakfast onboard, then disembark. If flights are later, consider bag storage and a quick visit to One World Observatory or a walk on the High Line before heading to the airport.
Practical Notes
- Timing: Caribbean calls are compact—pre-book must-do tours (especially St. Lucia and Dominica).
- What to pack: Reef-safe sunscreen, hat, insect repellent for rainforest stops, water shoes for rocky entries, lightweight cover-up.
- Money & connectivity: U.S. dollars widely accepted in most ports; ATMs available. Expect spotty mobile data on sea days.
- Tendering: Castries requires ship tenders—allow extra time returning to the ship.
- Comfort at sea: Evenings on deck can be breezy—bring a light layer.