The Greater Antilles’ cruise ports offer you the best Caribbean stops.
You’ll find historic harbours in Cuba’s Havana, Santiago and Cienfuegos, where colonial buildings line the streets.
You can relax on white beaches in Jamaica’s Montego Bay and Ocho Rios, or try water sports and island tours.
In Puerto Rico, you’ll discover San Juan and Ponce’s mix of old Spanish charm and modern facilities.
Haiti’s ports let you explore unique landscapes and local culture.
Each port gives you a different taste of Caribbean life.
Havana, Cuba Cruise Ship Port Guide
You’ll find Havana’s cruise terminal, Sierra Maestra, right at the edge of Old Havana. The port sits next to the historic Plaza de San Francisco, making it easy to start your exploration straight away.
The terminal offers essential services:
- Currency exchange offices
- Taxi ranks
- Souvenir shops
- Tourist information desks
Your ship will dock at one of two locations:
- Main terminal: For large cruise ships
- Pan American pier: For smaller vessels
You can walk to several key attractions from the port:
- Four main historic plazas
- The MalecĂłn seafront promenade
- Hotel Nacional
- Colonial architecture sites
- Streets filled with classic American cars
Remember to bring:
- Your tourist visa
- Valid travel documents
- Local currency for small purchases
Top tip: Check the latest travel regulations before your trip, as Cuban entry requirements can change.
Santiago de Cuba, Cuba Cruise Ship Port Guide
The GuillermĂłn Moncada port in Santiago de Cuba sits 2.5 miles from the city centre. You’ll dock in Cuba’s second-largest city, where a rich blend of history and culture awaits.
Your port location gives you easy access to key attractions. The UNESCO-listed Castillo de San Pedro de la Roca offers you stunning coastal views. Casa de la Trova lets you experience authentic Cuban music and dancing up close. The Sierra Maestra mountains provide you with hiking trails and panoramic views of the region.
The city stands out for three main features:
- Revolutionary historic sites
- Live music venues
- Strong Afro-Cuban cultural influences
You can reach the city centre by taxi or organised shuttle service. The nearby attractions suit both history buffs and outdoor enthusiasts, making Santiago de Cuba a versatile cruise stop.
Cienfuegos, Cuba Cruise Ship Port Guide
Welcome to Cienfuegos, a Cuban port city known as the ‘Pearl of the South’.
You’ll find French colonial architecture throughout the UNESCO-protected city centre. The main square, Parque JosĂ© MartĂ, features well-preserved neoclassical buildings on all sides.
The Palacio de Valle stands as the city’s most distinctive landmark. You can explore its unique architecture, which blends Gothic, Romanesque and Moorish designs under one roof.
Visit the Punta Gorda peninsula to:
- Enjoy waterfront views
- Try fresh seafood at local restaurants (paladares)
- Watch the sunset over the bay
For the best city views, make your way to the Tomás Acea Cemetery. You can climb its observation tower to capture photos of Cienfuegos Bay and the cityscape below.
This southern Cuban port offers you:
- UNESCO World Heritage sites
- Colonial-era architecture
- Seaside dining options
- Photography opportunities
- Cultural experiences
You can easily walk between most attractions in the city centre, making it perfect for cruise ship visits.
Montego Bay, Jamaica Cruise Ship Port Guide
Montego Bay welcomes you with its turquoise waters and white-sand beaches. You’ll find a modern cruise terminal that connects you directly to duty-free shops, craft markets and local food stalls.
You can reach the most popular attractions in minutes:
- Doctor’s Cave Beach offers clear waters for swimming
- Rose Hall Great House reveals Jamaica’s colonial history
- Championship golf courses provide scenic play options
- Rainforest zip-lines deliver thrilling adventures
- Martha Brae River lets you enjoy peaceful rafting
The port area gives you easy access to:
- Traditional jerk chicken and seafood
- Fresh tropical fruits and drinks
- Live reggae music venues
- Local craft souvenirs
- Authentic Jamaican coffee
You’ll meet friendly locals who make Montego Bay a truly special Caribbean stop. The port serves as your gateway to both relaxation and adventure, depending on what you fancy.
Ocho Rios, Jamaica Cruise Ship Port Guide
OCHO RIOS PORT GUIDE
You’ll find Ocho Rios on Jamaica’s north coast, where waterfalls meet white-sand beaches. This cruise port welcomes thousands of visitors yearly with its natural attractions and friendly locals.
Top Activities:
- Dunn’s River Falls
- You can climb 600 feet of natural limestone steps
- You’ll join other visitors to form a human chain
- The water runs cool and refreshing year-round
- Dolphin Cove
- You can swim with trained dolphins
- You’ll get expert guidance from marine specialists
- The facility offers photo opportunities
- Green Grotto Caves
- You’ll explore underground limestone formations
- You can see where ‘Live and Let Die’ was filmed
- The caves maintain a constant cool temperature
Shopping:
The craft market sits near the port where you can:
- Buy authentic Jamaican crafts
- Meet local artisans
- Find handmade jewellery
- Purchase traditional wood carvings
Travel Tip: Bring water shoes for Dunn’s River Falls and cash for the craft market.
Falmouth, Jamaica Cruise Ship Port Guide
The historic town of Falmouth welcomes you with its Georgian architecture and Caribbean atmosphere. You’ll step off your cruise ship into a modern port facility with immediate access to local craft markets, tax-free shopping and Jamaican eateries.
You can walk to key heritage sites in minutes. The Falmouth Court House shows you colonial design at its finest, while St. Peter’s Anglican Church offers a glimpse into 19th-century Jamaica.
The Albert George Market lets you taste authentic Jamaican food and meet local traders. For trips beyond the port, you can choose from several popular options:
- Climb the famous Dunn’s River Falls
- Take a bamboo raft down the Martha Brae River
- Relax at nearby beaches
The port area stays busy with cruise visitors, but you’ll find quieter spots to explore in the old town streets. Many shops accept US dollars, and you’ll hear English spoken everywhere you go.
Port Antonio, Jamaica Cruise Ship Port Guide
Port Antonio sits on Jamaica’s northeastern coast, offering you a quieter cruise experience than busier ports. The town serves as your gateway to authentic Jamaican life, natural wonders and peaceful beaches.
Your ship docks near these main attractions:
- Frenchman’s Cove Beach
- You can swim where fresh spring water meets the sea
- The beach offers calm, protected waters
- Lifeguards monitor the swimming areas
- Rio Grande River
- You can float downstream on traditional bamboo rafts
- Local guides navigate your two-hour journey
- The route takes you past tropical forests and villages
- Blue Lagoon
- You can swim in 200-foot deep spring waters
- The water maintains a constant 25°C temperature
- The site gained fame from the 1980 film
You’ll find Port Antonio ideal for:
- Peaceful beach visits
- Nature exploration
- Local culture experiences
- Photography opportunities
- Water activities
The town gives you direct access to Jamaica’s natural landscape without the typical tourist crowds.
Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic Cruise Ship Port Guide
You’ll discover Santo Domingo’s colonial history as the oldest European settlement in the Caribbean. The UNESCO World Heritage Colonial Zone features 16th-century buildings connected by cobblestone streets. Make sure to visit the Alcázar de ColĂłn, a palace where Christopher Columbus’s son once lived.
The El MalecĂłn waterfront offers you scenic walks with sea views and fresh breezes. You can buy local crafts and artwork at the markets near the port. Many restaurants around the dock serve traditional Dominican dishes, letting you taste authentic local flavours.
Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic Cruise Ship Port Guide
Puerto Plata welcomes you with its stunning north coast, where you’ll find golden beaches, turquoise waters and mountain views. The city combines Victorian buildings with Dominican culture, making it a unique cruise destination.
Your essential activities in port:
- Take the cable car up Mount Isabel de Torres
- You’ll get 360-degree views of the city and coast
- The ride takes 10 minutes each way
- Visit Fort San Felipe
- You can explore this 16th-century fortress
- The museum shows the fort’s military history
- Walk through the city centre
- You’ll discover amber museums with local gemstones
- Local markets sell fresh produce and crafts
- Visit the MalecĂłn
- You can try Dominican street food
- The beachfront path offers sea views
- Local families gather here in the evenings
Tips:
- Bring local currency for market purchases
- Wear comfortable walking shoes
- Most attractions open from 9am to 5pm
- The cable car closes in strong winds
La Romana, Dominican Republic Cruise Ship Port Guide
La Romana welcomes you with its perfect mix of Caribbean beaches and Dominican culture. You’ll find this port city on the Dominican Republic’s southern coast.
You can visit three main attractions:
- Altos de ChavĂłn – a hilltop village that recreates 16th-century Mediterranean life
- Casa de Campo – a luxury resort just minutes from the port
- Catalina Island – home to white sandy beaches and snorkelling spots
The city centre offers you:
- Local markets with Dominican crafts
- Traditional music and dance shows
- Authentic local restaurants
- Friendly locals who love sharing their culture
You can reach these spots easily:
- Beaches: 5-10 minutes from port
- City centre: 15 minutes from port
- Catalina Island: 30-minute boat ride
For outdoor activities, you can:
- Play golf at world-class courses
- Swim in crystal-clear waters
- Snorkel around coral reefs
- Walk along pristine beaches
You’ll enjoy La Romana’s warm weather and laid-back atmosphere throughout your visit.
Samaná, Dominican Republic Cruise Ship Port Guide
Samaná sits on the northeastern coast of the Dominican Republic, offering you a blend of natural landscapes and Caribbean culture. This cruise port features beaches, mountains and tropical forests.
Your key activities in Samaná:
Whale Watching (January-March)
- Watch humpback whales breach and swim in their natural environment
- Book guided tours from the port for the best viewing spots
- Learn about whale migration patterns from local experts
Cayo Levantado (Bacardi Island)
- Take a 15-minute boat ride to reach this white-sand island
- Swim in transparent waters ideal for snorkelling
- Find beachfront restaurants serving fresh seafood
Los Haitises National Park
- Explore limestone caves with Taino indigenous artwork
- Spot rare birds and wildlife in the mangrove forests
- Navigate through waterways on guided boat tours
Tips:
- Book whale watching tours early in peak season
- Bring swimwear and sun protection
- Carry local currency for small purchases
- Wear comfortable walking shoes for park visits
Labadee, Haiti (Royal Caribbean) Cruise Ship Port Guide
You’ll discover Labadee, Royal Caribbean’s private beach resort, on Haiti’s north coast. This exclusive destination offers you pristine beaches and exciting activities.
The resort features five distinct beaches:
- Nellie’s Beach for relaxation
- Adrenaline Beach for water sports
- Columbus Cove with cabanas and loungers
- Plus two additional beach areas
You can try these popular activities:
- Dragon’s Breath Flight Line: the world’s longest over-water zip line
- Dragon’s Tail Coaster: a thrilling mountain ride
- Local craft shopping at the artisan markets
- Caribbean barbecue meals on the beach
Your options for comfort include:
- Beachside loungers
- Shaded cabanas
- Food and drink stations
- Rest areas with ocean views
You’ll find easy access to all facilities from the cruise ship dock, making it simple to enjoy both land and water activities during your visit.
Port-au-Prince, Haiti Cruise Ship Port Guide
Port-au-Prince doesn’t currently accept cruise ships due to security issues, though you can still visit Haiti’s capital independently.
You’ll find these notable attractions in the city:
- The National Pantheon Museum displays Haiti’s independence artefacts and historical items
- The Iron Market shows off unique Victorian architecture
- The Sans-Souci Palace ruins tell the story of Haiti’s royal history (located outside the city)
You can take a cruise to Haiti by visiting Labadee instead, which now serves as the country’s main cruise port.
Travel tips:
- Check current security advisories before planning your trip
- Book guided tours for safer city exploration
- Visit museums in the morning when they’re less crowded
- Carry local currency for market purchases
- Stay in tourist-approved areas
Your best time to visit is between December and March when the weather is mild and dry.
San Juan, Puerto Rico Cruise Ship Port Guide
San Juan welcomes over 1.5 million cruise passengers each year at two terminals: Old San Juan‘s Pier 3/4 and the Pan American Terminal.
You’ll step straight into Old San Juan’s historic centre from your ship. The district features vibrant colonial buildings and traditional cobblestone streets. You can visit two major fortresses – El Morro and San CristĂłbal – or browse local shops and restaurants serving traditional Puerto Rican dishes.
The port offers essential services:
- Duty-free shopping
- Tourist information desks
- Taxi ranks
- Shore excursion meeting points
You can book trips to popular attractions:
- El Yunque rainforest
- Bacardi rum distillery
- City tours
- Beach visits
Your cruise ship docks in one of the Caribbean’s most accessible ports, putting you minutes away from key attractions and transport links.
Ponce, Puerto Rico Cruise Ship Port Guide
Welcome to Ponce’s cruise port on Puerto Rico’s southern coast. You’ll find this peaceful port offers a calmer experience than San Juan’s busy terminals. The historic city centre sits just a few minutes from where your ship docks.
You can explore these main attractions:
- Plaza Las Delicias
- You’ll see the bright red Parque de Bombas fire station
- The Ponce Cathedral stands at the plaza’s centre
- Museo de Arte de Ponce
- You can view European masterpieces
- The gallery houses Puerto Rican artwork
- Castillo Serrallés
- You’ll discover the island’s rum-making history
- The mansion gives you panoramic city views
The smaller port size helps you experience genuine Puerto Rican culture. You can walk easily between most attractions, and local shops and restaurants surround the main square.
Getting around:
- The city centre is 10 minutes from the port
- Taxis wait at the cruise terminal
- Local buses run regularly to main attractions
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Best Time of Year to Cruise the Greater Antilles?
The ideal cruising months for the Greater Antilles are December through April. You’ll experience temperatures between 24-29°C with dry, sunny conditions. These months help you dodge both the hurricane season and peak summer heat, whilst travelling alongside other holidaymakers who’ve chosen this prime weather window.
Are There Specific Vaccination Requirements for Cruising Between Different Caribbean Islands?
You need standard vaccinations and specific travel jabs for Caribbean island cruises. Your routine vaccines should be up to date, including MMR and DPT. The main additional vaccines you need are Hepatitis A and Typhoid. Your cruise operator will send you a detailed list of requirements for your specific route. Each Caribbean port accepts vaccination records from UK and US medical providers. Check with your GP at least eight weeks before your cruise to arrange any missing vaccines.
How Rough Are the Waters Around the Greater Antilles?
The waters around the Greater Antilles vary in their conditions throughout the year. You’ll experience mostly calm seas outside hurricane season. The roughest period occurs between June and November, when tropical storms can create choppy waters. Your cruise operators track weather systems carefully to ensure safe passage. You can easily check current sea conditions through maritime weather services before planning your journey.
Which Cruise Lines Offer the Most Comprehensive Greater Antilles Itineraries?
Several cruise lines offer great Greater Antilles itineraries for you to choose from:
Royal Caribbean and Celebrity lead with the most comprehensive routes, covering key ports across Jamaica, Cuba, Haiti and the Dominican Republic.
MSC and Norwegian provide alternative routes that let you visit multiple islands in a single journey.
You can expect:
- Regular stops at major ports
- Flexible sailing dates throughout the year
- Various trip lengths from 7-14 days
- Different departure points in the US and Caribbean
Each cruise line brings its own style to the Greater Antilles experience, so you can match your travel preferences to the right provider.
What Currency Should I Carry When Visiting Multiple Ports in the Region?
For multi-port visits, carry US dollars as your primary currency. These work well across most ports and tourist areas. Take new, undamaged notes in small denominations (ÂŁ1, ÂŁ5, ÂŁ10, ÂŁ20) for better exchange rates. You can also use local ATMs to withdraw currency as needed throughout your journey. Keep some small US bills handy for tips and minor purchases.
