The classic first big-ship cruise: seven nights from a Florida or Texas homeport to Mexico and the western islands, with three sea days to enjoy the ship. It is the route most people picture when they say Caribbean cruise.
The route at a glance
Roundtrip from Miami, Fort Lauderdale, Port Canaveral, Tampa or Galveston. Typical calls: Cozumel and Costa Maya in Mexico, Roatan, Belize City and Grand Cayman, with 2-3 sea days. Ships from Royal Caribbean, Carnival, Norwegian and MSC sail it year-round. Port guides: Cozumel, Costa Maya, Roatan, Belize City.
Who this route suits
Best for first-time cruisers, families and winter-sun seekers who want easy ports and big-ship amenities. Less ideal if you hate crowds at popular ports or want deep cultural days - this is a beach-and-activity route.
What it costs
Inside cabins run $500-900 per person, balcony $900-1,500, plus $100-150 in port fees and gratuities. Peak weeks (Christmas, spring break) add 40-60%. Excursions average $60-120 per port. Full budget breakdown: what a Caribbean cruise costs.
The five-minute version
- Seven nights, roundtrip Florida or Texas.
- Cozumel, Costa Maya, Roatan, Belize, Grand Cayman.
- Three sea days on a big ship.
- Fares: see the What it costs section, which gives each figure with its date and what it includes.
- The standard first Caribbean cruise.
- Cozumel is the route's workhorse port: the state port authority (apiqroo.com.mx/cozumel) runs Puerta Maya pier - confirm your pier before booking independent tours.
