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Ft. Lauderdale, Florida - There is an abundance of things to see and do in the Ft. Lauderdale area: visit the newly redesigned Ft. Lauderdale Beach and cafes, stroll the historic Riverwalk, shop the luxurious stores on Las Olas Boulevard, or adventure to the Everglades for an intriguing air boat excursion.

At Sea - Cruising - Cruising

Philipsburg, St. Maarten - St. Maarten offers one of the most distinct experiences in the Caribbean: the chance to visit two countries in a single day. Your ship docks in Philipsburg, the capital of the Dutch side (Sint Maarten), a bustling hub of activity. The town itself is built along a beautiful arc of sand, Great Bay Beach, with a lively boardwalk perfect for a stroll. This is the commercial heart of the island, known for its extensive duty-free shopping, particularly for jewelry, electronics, and local spirits like the iconic Guavaberry Liqueur. For a complete change of pace, a short taxi ride transports you to the French side (Saint-Martin). Here, the atmosphere shifts to something more akin to the French Riviera. The capital, Marigot, offers a more relaxed vibe with chic boutiques, open-air markets, and charming bistros serving fresh croissants and coffee. For the food-focused traveler, a visit to Grand Case is essential; it’s widely regarded as the culinary capital of the Caribbean, with an impressive collection of world-class restaurants. Of course, the beaches are a primary draw. While there are dozens to choose from, Maho Beach is a spectacle you won’t forget. It’s not a place for quiet relaxation, but for the unique thrill of watching massive jets land just feet above your head. For a more classic Caribbean beach day, Orient Bay on the French side offers a wide expanse of white sand and turquoise water. St. Maarten’s appeal lies in this choice—you can curate your day to be as high-energy or as relaxed as you wish.

San Juan, Puerto Rico - San Juan is one of the most rewarding and historically significant ports in the Caribbean, and its greatest asset is proximity. Your ship docks at the edge of Old San Juan, a 500-year-old walled city that is a destination in its own right. Forget the organized bus tours; this is a port best explored on foot. Step off the ship and you are immediately immersed in the atmosphere of blue cobblestone streets and pastel-hued colonial architecture. Your primary objective should be exploring the two massive Spanish citadels that bookend the old city. Start with Castillo San Cristóbal, the largest Spanish fort in the Americas, then enjoy the scenic one-mile walk along the city wall to the iconic Castillo San Felipe del Morro, which has guarded the harbor entrance for centuries. The scale and preservation of these UNESCO World Heritage sites are genuinely impressive. Beyond the forts, the joy of San Juan is in the wandering. Discover shaded plazas, artisan shops on Calle del Cristo, and the famous Fortaleza Street. For a taste of authentic Puerto Rican cuisine, find a local spot for *mofongo* (a savory dish of mashed plantains) or enjoy a classic piña colada at Barrachina, one of the bars that claims to have invented it. While the famous beaches of Condado and Isla Verde are an option, they require a taxi and can consume valuable time. For a port day, the tangible history, vibrant culture, and culinary delights within the city walls offer a more than fulfilling experience.

Labadee, Haiti - Beachside meets mountainside on the shores of Labadee — a Royal Caribbean private destination on Haiti’s northern coast. Here you’ll find pristine sands, coral reefs and jungle-covered hilltops nestling lagoon-like bays. There’s no shortage of places to relax and recharge across five stretches of beach. Or dial up the thrills on an active adventure like a half-mile-long zip line ride over the ocean. And fascinating culture, history and the natural beauty of Haiti’s spectacular coasts wait to be discovered around every corner. Escape to the Western Caribbean for a wilder way to experience paradise.