Cruising the Caribbean

Americans cruise the Caribbean more than any other destination. Must be the year-round sunshine, turquoise waters, flavorful food, white sand beaches and all those piña coladas. You get all this on a cruise to the Caribbean—plus delicious buffets. Here are just three great ports of call.

San Juan: As they say, you don't need a passport—but this sure doesn't feel like old-fashioned Americana. Grow an appreciation for 16th-century Spanish architecture by touring the numerous churches and forts (most famous: the "El Morro" fortress), or plant yourself on one of the city's public beaches and watch as a myriad of beautiful people traipse by (in less bathing suit than you might be used to seeing). If you're looking to stretch your legs a bit further, Puerto Rico's capital borders majestic mountains and the El Yunque Rain Forest—an unbelievable nature hike. Or take it easy and lap up some of the island's best culture: The Bacardi rum factory is within the city limits, and makes for an interesting day trip.

Dominica: Dense rainforests and majestic waterfalls dot this wild Caribbean island, but the best stuff lurks below the surface. Cruise lines are notorious for sending flipper-clad passengers into fish-free snorkel zones to see a bunch of nothing, but that's not the case here. Venture into the waters off Champagne Beach, where sunken volcanic fissures release tiny bubbles, creating a champagne effect that titillates snorkelers and tropical fish alike.

Grand Cayman: It appears unassuming on the outside, with flat, swampy land that looks not much like the rest of the Caribbean. But Grand Cayman is hiding a lot of fun. Head ashore to sunbathe on one of the countless abandoned beaches, or trade your big boat for a smaller, glass-bottomed one and head to Stingray City, where hundreds of regal rays swim effortlessly (a killer photo op). At the end of the day, you may have to drag yourself back to the boat—until you remember the great food and evening activities waiting. There will be more ports of call tomorrow.