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Miami, Florida - As far as vacation destinations go, Miami tops most sun-seekers’ lists. With its gorgeous beaches, vibrant neighborhoods and melting pot of cultures, the Magic City is the perfect place to spend a few days before your Caribbean island hop. Ahead of your cruise from Miami, jump-start your morning in true Miami style with a Cuban cafecito from a ventanita — a streetside shop window. Then climb the historic lighthouse at Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park on quiet Key Biscayne before lounging on the island’s secluded sandy shores. If you’re looking for a bit more action, head to South Beach — home to world-class restaurants, nightlife, shopping and lively beaches, all set against snap-worthy Art Deco buildings. Art lovers who visit Miami can head to Wynwood and explore the neighborhood’s colorful street murals and local galleries. Or take a trip back in time at the Renaissance-style Vizcaya estate, which offers a glimpse into Miami’s dazzling past.

Key West, Florida - A distinctly American town with the look and feel of the Caribbean, Key West unlocks myriad attractions. Ride the Conch Train to the famous sights: Ernest Hemingway's home, the Audubon House, and the "Little White House", where President Truman spent many a working vacation. Hop a catamaran to America's only living coral reef to snorkel with dolphins. Or climb into the open cockpit of a World War II biplane for an unforgettable aerial tour of the Keys.

At Sea - Cruising - Cruising

Puerto Costa Maya, Mexico - Past meets present in Costa Maya. Cruise to Costa Maya and find ancient Maya ruins and mysterious jungles just begging to be explored, as well as private beach clubs and trendy restaurants— all in one place. It’s 250 square miles of paradise packed with entertainment and history, all just 30 miles south of Cancun. The Great Maya Reef just off the coast is the second largest in the world— it’s a must-snorkel spot. Or you can kick back at the port village of Mahahual with an ice-cold michelada— a spicy beer cocktail— in hand. For a culture fix, head to the Kohunlick ruins to see the famous Temple of the Masks.

Cozumel, Mexico - Let's be direct: Cozumel is one of the world's busiest cruise ports, and it's essential to have a plan to navigate the crowds and find its genuine highlights. The island's global reputation is built on what lies just offshore: the Mesoamerican Reef, the second-largest barrier reef system in the world. For divers and snorkelers, this is a premier, bucket-list destination. The clear, warm water and vibrant coral formations of sites like the Palancar and Colombia reefs are genuinely world-class. For an accessible taste without a dedicated boat trip, parks like Chankanaab or the more remote Punta Sur Eco Beach Park offer excellent snorkeling directly from shore, combined with beaches and other amenities. Many are drawn by the allure of Mayan ruins, but here’s a critical piece of advice: the famous sites like Tulum and Coba are on the mainland, not on Cozumel. Reaching them requires a 45-minute ferry to Playa del Carmen and then a bus journey, consuming nearly your entire day. While magnificent, choosing this option means forgoing the island experience entirely. It's a trade-off you must be comfortable with. If you stay on the island, the main town of San Miguel offers a bustling waterfront and a dizzying array of shops. We recommend walking a few blocks inland from the main tourist thoroughfare to find more authentic local restaurants for a fantastic lunch. For pure relaxation, Cozumel’s beach clubs are a popular and effective choice. They range from lively, all-inclusive party spots with water toys to more serene, upscale retreats where the focus is on a good book and a great cocktail. You can easily find one that matches your pace. Cozumel is a highly developed tourism hub that excels at water sports and beach relaxation; embrace it for these strengths, and you’ll have a fantastic day.

Georgetown, Grand Cayman - Grand Cayman offers a distinctly polished and pristine version of the Caribbean experience. As a major financial hub, the island feels safe, clean, and exceptionally well-organized, making for a seamless and relaxing day ashore. It’s important to note that this is a tender port; your ship will anchor offshore, and you’ll take a smaller boat to the pier, so be sure to factor that time into your plans. The island’s reputation is built on two world-class attractions. The first is the legendary Seven Mile Beach, a magnificent crescent of soft, white sand and impossibly clear turquoise water. While it’s no secret, its beauty is undeniable. You can easily grab a taxi from the port and find a public access point or settle in at one of the many beach clubs for the day. The second must-do is Stingray City. This isn't a contrived tourist trap; it's a natural sandbar where southern stingrays have gathered for decades. Standing in waist-deep water as these gentle, graceful creatures glide around you is a truly unforgettable experience. Beyond these highlights, you can visit the Cayman Turtle Centre, a conservation and education facility that’s particularly popular with families. The town of Georgetown itself is compact and walkable, known for its high-end duty-free shopping, especially for jewelry and watches. While it lacks deep historical architecture, it’s a pleasant place for a stroll and a meal. For a taste of local flavor, find a casual spot for some conch fritters or fresh ceviche before tendering back to your ship.