If you have been contemplating a cruise around the Caribbean and are looking for an itinerary which combines some beautiful tropical isles with some fascinating and relatively unknown ports of call, then this unusual voyage from the Cayman Islands across to Antigua could offer the perfect solution. The region is imbued with colour and culture with a wealth of historical sites and great natural beauty and is perfect for exploring aboard the 95-passenger MS Serenissima.
When we are creating itineraries for our small ships in the Caribbean, it is important to us that we devise our schedules in order to avoid the large, mega cruise ships in the region and find the right mix of islands. For this itinerary we have included an eclectic mix of calls beginning with the island of Cuba where we will visit the laid-back maritime city of Cienfuegos, the atmospheric town of Trinidad with its wonderful colonial centre and the historic city of Santiago de Cuba. We continue to Jamaica, the Dominican Republic, British Virgin Islands, the Dutch Antilles and Montserrat with each day presenting something new to discover ranging from national parks, beautiful beaches, coral reefs and waterfalls to historical sites and forts of the Spanish, Dutch and British colonial periods. Our voyage offers an easy and comfortable way to explore the region and with the MS Serenissima we are able to visit some small islands and ports which the larger cruise vessels simply cannot access. Our knowledgeable onboard team will enable us to make the most of each day whether we are landing on tropical beaches by Zodiac, searching for endemic flora and fauna or learning about the history and culture of the islands.
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Serenissima
The charming MS Serenissima began her career as the Harald Jarl, cruising the Norwegian coastline and fjords. Following an extensive renovation in 2003, the vessel began her life as a classic cruise ship and we have had the vessel on long term charter since 2013. Accommodating just 95 passengers the vessel is perfect for small ship cruising and can navigate into small, remote ports inaccessible to the big cruise ships and appears an impressive sight when moored. With her fleet of Zodiacs she is capable of both destination and expedition cruising.
Itinerary
Day 1 London to Grand Cayman, Cayman Islands.
Fly by scheduled flight. On arrival transfer to the MS Serenissima and enjoy welcome drinks and dinner as we sail this evening.
Day 2 Cienfuegos, Cuba.
After a leisurely morning at sea we arrive into Cuba at Cienfuegos, a laid-back maritime city with a tropical atmosphere. In colonial times the city was known as the ‘Pearl of the South’, a name earned from its lovely location on a picturesque Caribbean bay. Explore the town including a visit to the botanical gardens which are spread over 90 hectares and include 2000 species of plants. We will also see the Parque Marti with its 19th century architecture including the Thomas Terry Theatre and enjoy the views and a cocktail on the terrace of the Palacio del Valle.
Day 3 Casilda for Trinidad.
The compact colonial centre of Trinidad is one of the most sublime in Latin America. The cobbled streets, terracotta rooftops and pastel-coloured houses are a delight. We will spend the morning here exploring the town and visit either the Romantic Museum or the City Museum and also hope to visit a bar for a local rum speciality. After a local lunch we will head to the Valley of the Sugar Mills. These three valleys were the centre of the Cuban sugar industry in the 19th century and contained around 70 sugar mills in their peak.
Day 4 At Sea.
We continue cruising along the south coast of Cuba and will pass near the Jardins de la Reina archipelago. The area was named by Christopher Columbus to honour the Queen of Spain and at 75 miles long contains the third longest barrier reef in the world. Enjoy a day of lectures or find a spot on deck and watch the world go by. We will arrive this evening at Santiago de Cuba where we moor overnight.
Day 5 Santiago de Cuba.
Our guided morning tour begins with a panoramic drive through the city including stops at the Moncada Garrison which still bears bullet holes from Fidel Castro’s attempted coup in 1953, the imposing Plaza de la Revolucion and the 16th century Casa de Diego Velazquez considered the oldest house in Cuba. We will also drive out of the city through lush tropical scenery to the Castillo del Morro which guards the entrance to the harbour, affording magnificent views. This afternoon is free to explore further independently before we sail this evening.
Day 6 Port Antonio, Jamaica.
Arrive this morning on the north coast of Jamaica and the small, bustling port of Port Antonio, renowned as the world’s banana capital and once home to Errol Flynn who described it as a ‘paradise unspoiled by human hands’. This morning you can opt to join a rafting trip on the Rio Grande during which skilled raftsmen will impart their local knowledge about the native flora and fauna, the history and people of the area as we take in the wonderful natural surroundings. Alternatively, enjoy a scenic drive to Reach Falls situated in the lush Montane Forest. We will have time to enjoy the falls and walk in the surrounding forest which is home to many species of fern as well as a variety of birds. Enjoy a swim in the emerald pool at the foot of the falls before returning to the MS Serenissima for lunch. Enjoy an afternoon at leisure in Port Antonio or relax on a local beach.
Day 7 At Sea.
Spend a day at sea as we cruise to the island of Hispaniola.
Day 8 Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic.
Santo Domingo, the capital of the Dominican Republic and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is the oldest continuously inhabited European settlement in the Americas. Founded by Bartholomew Columbus in 1496, the city is a mix of old-world charm and modern Latin flair. On a walking tour this morning we will visit the Palace of Diego Columbus, the historic museum ‘Casas Reales’, the Tower of the Homage which was designed to guard the entrance to the port, the Cathedral of Santa Maria la Menor and finally the Parque Colon which is the central square of the historic district. After lunch on board the afternoon is free to explore further at your own pace.
Day 9 Samana.
Arrive this morning at the Samana Peninsula renowned for its beautiful beaches, turquoise waters and lush mountains. In addition, it is a centre for migrating humpback whales that are usually resident in the Marine Mammal Sanctuary from January to March. If conditions permit this morning we will use the Zodiacs or local boats to view these amazing creatures. This afternoon we visit Los Haitises National Park where we will explore magnificent limestone caves covered in Taino Indian art and visit Bird Island where we will learn about the importance of the many migratory and indigenous birds that inhabit the mangroves.
Days 10 & 11 British Virgin Islands.
These islands are recognised throughout the seafaring world as one of the finest sailing areas. The 36 islands and cays sit in a dazzling turquoise sea surrounded by beautiful coral reefs. We have a day and a half here and will drop anchor and use our Zodiacs to explore. We may make calls at the islands of Virgin Gorda, Jost Van Dyke and Tortola. We will enjoy island drives and allow for time to relax on the beautiful beaches and swim in the clear waters.
Day 12 Sint Eustatius, Dutch Antilles.
In the 18th century the port of Oranjestad was a major player in the trade between Europe and the new world. Today the island maintains a low key existence and has avoided the modernisation and development of its neighbours. We will explore the small town including the 17th century fort and the museum with information on slavery, colonial relics and historical artefacts. Meanwhile, those feeling active may wish to take the strenuous hike to ‘The Quill’, the 600 metre hill that dominates the landscape. After lunch on board enjoy an afternoon at leisure for further exploration.
Day 13 Little Bay, Montserrat.
Ask any Caribbean connoisseur about their favourite places and Montserrat will always be high on the list. During our time on the island, we will discover the indigenous flora and fauna at the botanical gardens before we visit the volcano observatory and learn how the islanders coped with the devastation which the volcanic eruptions of 1995 and 2010 caused. From Richmond hill we can see the impact of the eruptions before walking through the buried city of Plymouth itself. We will also see some of the untouched areas which are as beautiful as ever. This afternoon we sail the short distance to Antigua where we moor overnight.
Day 14 Antigua to London.
Disembark this morning and take a tour to enjoy the views from Shirley Heights before heading to Nelson’s Dockyard, beautifully located in English Harbour. See the impressive collection of restored historic buildings which were occupied by the British Navy from 1707 till 1899. After lunch we will transfer to the airport for our scheduled flight to London.
Day 15 London.
Arrive today.
Ship to Shore: This cruise is not classified as an expedition cruise, however we will be at anchor in the British Virgin Islands and Montserrat where Zodiac landing craft will be used to transfer ashore. |
Dates and Prices
9 to 23 March 2023 | ||
---|---|---|
Category | Brochure Price | Special Offer Price |
2 Standard Stateroom | £6695 | £6395 |
3 Classic Stateroom | £6895 | £6595 |
4 Superior Stateroom | £7195 | £6895 |
5 Deluxe Stateroom | £7495 | £7195 |
6 Junior Suite | £8095 | £7795 |
7 Owner’s Suite | £8495 | £8195 |
8 Serenissima Suite | £8495 | £8195 |
10 Standard Single | £6695 | £6395 |
Tour Reference Code: SCSE090323
Price Includes: Economy class scheduled air travel • 13 nights aboard the MS Serenissima on a full board basis • House wine, beer and soft drinks with lunch and dinner • Noble Caledonia onboard team including Guest Speaker • Shore excursions • Gratuities • Transfers • Port taxes.
Not Included: Travel insurance • Cuba tourist card.
Ship to Shore: This cruise is not classified as an expedition cruise, however we will be at anchor in the British Virgin Islands and Montserrat where Zodiac landing craft will be used to transfer ashore. |
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Deckplan
Serenissima
The charming MS Serenissima began her career as the Harald Jarl, cruising the Norwegian coastline and fjords. Following an extensive renovation in 2003, the vessel began her life as a classic cruise ship and we have had the vessel on long term charter since 2013. Accommodating just 95 passengers the vessel is perfect for small ship cruising and can navigate into small, remote ports inaccessible to the big cruise ships and appears an impressive sight when moored. With her fleet of Zodiacs she is capable of both destination and expedition cruising.
Travelling with You
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Dr Carrie Gibson
Carrie Gibson received her PhD in History from Cambridge in 2011, focussing on the Hispanic Caribbean islands of Cuba, Puerto Rico, and the Dominican Republic in the era of the Haitian Revolution. She is the author of the 2014 book Empire’s Crossroads: A History of the Caribbean from Columbus to the Present Day. Her most recent book, El Norte: The Epic and Forgotten Story of Hispanic North America. was published in 2019. She has spent years travelling and researching in the Caribbean, Latin America, and the United States. Before embarking on a career as a historian, Carrie was a journalist for the Guardian and Observer, and continues to contribute to media outlets. She lives in London.
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Book with Confidence
Speak to one of our advisors on 020 7752 0000