Our Unforgettable 12-Day Caribbean Cruise with NCL: Exploring Amazing Beaches, Cultural Delights, and Local Cuisine!

There’s something magical about cruising through the Caribbean, where each island is a gem waiting to be discovered. Last spring, my partner and I set sail on a 12-day journey with Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) that took us across some of the best and most famous beaches and cultural hot spots in the region. From the vibrant markets of Aruba to the serene shores of the British Virgin Islands, our all-inclusive experience was nothing short of spectacular.

With every detail taken care of, we enjoyed the freedom to explore, relax, and indulge in the unique local cuisine and cultures of each destination. Pack your bags and come along as I recount our unforgettable journey through this tropical paradise!

Day 1: Embarking on Our Adventure

The excitement began at the dock in Miami, where we boarded our stunning NCL cruise ship, the Norwegian Getaway. As we stepped onto the ship, we were instantly captivated by its vibrant décor and welcoming atmosphere.

Norwegian Getaway - setting sail from Miami

We were greeted with a refreshing welcome cocktail, which perfectly set the tone for our Caribbean adventure. Checking into our spacious cabin revealed breathtaking ocean views right from our balcony, adding a touch of luxury to our journey from the get-go.

Day 2: Relaxing at Sea

Our first full day was spent at sea, allowing us to relax and soak in all the amenities onboard. With an all-inclusive option, we had access to gourmet restaurants, vibrant bars, and exciting entertainment.

We indulged in a lavish breakfast, sampled gourmet dining at Cagney’s Steakhouse for dinner, and enjoyed a Broadway-style show that left us in awe.

The ship was bustling with activities ranging from cooking classes to dance lessons, making it easy to meet fellow travelers and share stories about our adventures.

Day 3: Exploring Aruba's Beaches

We docked at stunning Aruba, famed for its powdery white sand beaches and crystal-clear waters. Our first stop was Eagle Beach, consistently rated among the best beaches globally.

Iconic divi-divi tree at Eagle Beach, Aruba

We spent the day sunbathing, swimming, and exploring the local beach shacks that offered a variety of delicious snacks. Here, we delighted in pastechi, a local pastry filled with cheese, and guava, which became one of our favorite treats.

In the evening, we strolled along the bustling streets of Oranjestad, absorbing the lively atmosphere and vibrant colors that painted the city. It was an exciting sneak peek into the cultural richness of the island.

Day 4: Discovering Curacao's Vibrancy

The next day, we arrived in Curacao, where a world of colors welcomed us. We began our adventure in Willemstad, a UNESCO World Heritage site, famous for its iconic pastel buildings and picturesque waterfront.

Exploring the local markets, we sampled traditional dishes like stoba, a rich meat stew, alongside freshly caught fish. Every bite was a marvelous journey through the local cuisine that Curacao had to offer.

Colorful buildings along Willemstad waterfront in Curacao

Following our culinary exploration, we wandered into art galleries and shops dotted around the city, where local artisans showcased their crafts. A visit to the vibrant floating market was a must, where we could buy everything from fresh produce to handmade jewelry.

Day 5: Snorkeling in Bonaire

Our next stop was Bonaire, a Caribbean island renowned for its conservation efforts and stunning marine life. We hopped on a snorkeling excursion that took us to the breathtaking Bonaire National Marine Park.

The underwater world was mesmerizing, filled with vibrant corals, tropical fish, and even a curious sea turtle that swam alongside us. By the end of the day, our energy was renewed by the thrill of snorkeling and the beauty of the surroundings.

Day 6: Relaxing in the British Virgin Islands

Sailing into the British Virgin Islands felt like stepping into a postcard. We anchored at Tortola, where we took a day trip to the famous The Baths on Virgin Gorda. Here, massive granite boulders create an enchanting landscape, leading to serene beaches that seemed almost unreal.

We spent hours exploring the tidal pools and soaking up the sun. The local cuisine featured prominently here, as we sat down for lunch at a beach bar, enjoying grilled lobster while taking in the breathtaking views.

Day 7: Cultural Immersion in St. Thomas

Arriving in St. Thomas, we felt the fusion of cultures that defined this beautiful island. We embarked on a guided tour that included visits to the Blackbeard's Castle and Charlotte Amalie.

The island’s rich history was evident in every corner, and our tour guide shared fascinating stories about pirates, colonization, and the cultural shift of this vibrant community.

We ended the day shopping for local handicrafts and indulging in delicious local dishes like conch fritters and pigeon peas.

Day 8: A Visit to Dominica’s Natural Wonders

In Dominica, we found ourselves surrounded by lush rainforest and stunning waterfalls. We joined a hiking tour that took us to the mesmerizing Trafalgar Falls, where we spent the day immersed in nature's beauty.

After hiking through the verdant trails, we took a dip in the natural hot springs that warmed our muscles after a long day's exploration. Sampling some local street food, including higadere, a typical Dominican dish made with seasoned fried fish, added a culinary highlight to our day.

Day 9: Beach Day in St. Maarten

St. Maarten was a beach lover's dream. We chose to spend our day lounging at Maho Beach, famous for its stunning sunsets and close encounters with planes landing above.

The thrill of watching planes fly over while enjoying a cocktail was unforgettable. We also enjoyed local cuisine from nearby vendors, sampling delicious Johnny cakes and tropical fruit juices.

Day 10: Final Days at Sea

As our cruise adventure began to wind down, we headed back to sea for a few relaxing days. NCL offered various entertainment options and activities, from cooking demonstrations to trivia games that kept us engaged.

We took the time to unwind on our balcony, reminiscing on our incredible journey through the Caribbean while enjoying the sunset with a glass of wine in hand.

Day 11: Reflecting on Our Journey

Each island we visited left an indelible mark on our hearts. The warmth of the locals, the mouth-watering local cuisine, and the stunning vistas created memories that we will cherish forever.

As we headed back to Miami, we felt enriched by the diverse cultures and experiences. Our cruise not only provided us with luxury but also an educational journey through the history and traditions of the Caribbean.

Conclusion

Our 12-day cruise with NCL around the Caribbean was not just a vacation; it was a beautiful dive into different cultures, delectable local cuisines, and some of the best and famous beaches known to man. For couples seeking adventure and relaxation, this cruise provided the perfect balance.

If you're dreaming about a getaway filled with enchanting beaches, cultural delights, and unforgettable local food experiences, we wholeheartedly recommend sailing with Norwegian Cruise Line through the Caribbean. Pack your bags and set sail for an adventure that promises romance, excitement, and memories to last a lifetime!