Advanced Planning

• Make arrangements well in advance. This area is very popular with tourists. Travelers flock to the crystal clear waters of the Bahamas, the exciting diving opportunities found in the Cayman Islands and the chance to experience vibrant nightlife at many Dominican resorts. Book any cruise at least three months in advance. Six months is better. Make sure that you have transportation to the first port of call from your original destination. Plane travel is ideal if possible. There are frequent flights to Fort Lauderdale from many American cities, a very popular point of departure for cruises. Double-check to make sure that you have transportation from the airport to the cruise ship dock. Some cruise ships will provide this service for you, while others may not.
  
  

Avoid Hurricane Season

• Avoid the area during hurricane season. Hurricanes can be very dangerous, especially in areas that may not have buildings capable of withstanding fierce winds. The Western Caribbean region has been often battered by hurricanes in the past. Hurricane season begins in June and ends in November. However, some months are more active than others. The most hurricanes for this region have been the last two weeks of August through the first three weeks of September. If possible, do not book a cruise during this time frame. If a hurricane strikes a scheduled cruise destination, you may or may not get your money refunded. Ships may be diverted to alternate destinations.
  
  

Go Ashore

• Take shore excursions. The Caribbean has some wonderful beaches. Pink Sand Beach, on the island of Eleuthera in the Bahamas, has long been admired by beach goers and photographers around the world. But the Western Caribbean is more than just pretty beaches. This area has islands that have history and culture as well. Explore the varied attractions of Santo Domingo, the capital of the Dominican Republic. Visit Kingston for a first hand look at Jamaican musical festivals.