Where theres an island, theres water, so if youre planning a Caribbean getaway, you shouldnt forget to think about a sea vacation. Cruising is a popular way to see the Caribbean islands, and you can find a cruise itinerary to fit any budget. Cruises are like all-inclusive resorts, but you can see several islands and only unpack once. However, with some of the larger ships that can hold thousands of passengers, youll be descending on the island in a big pack and everywhere you go will be crowded. Downing recommends Windjammer Barefoot Cruises for a more intimate cruise experience. The smaller ships go where the larger boats cant, and he believes that Windjammer passengers are treated better by the locals than the hordes of guests on the big ships.
The more adventurous mariners might want to consider chartering a yacht with a captain and cook or bareboating (renting a boat that you sail yourself). Porter and Prince report that chartering your own boat-even a yacht-may not be as budget-breaking as you think. A seven-night combined hotel-and-crewed yacht package starts at $1,472 per person in Tortola or at $1,450 on the island of Grenada. If youre interested in finding your Caribbean sea legs, they recommend The Moorings, an outfitter that operates the largest charter yacht Fleet in the Caribbean.