Miami is a seaport city on Biscayne Bay in southeastern Florida, the "Cruise Capital of the World." The Port of Miami has led global cruise passenger traffic for over 20 years. Florida's second-largest city, it has about 5.5 million in its metro area and is a major center for finance, commerce, culture, media, entertainment, arts, and trade. Its name means "big water"; Spain claimed it in 1566, and it became U.S. territory in 1821. It is very flat, averaging 1.8 m above sea level.

Colourful colonial streets, Spanish forts and a lively Caribbean atmosphere make San Juan a captivating cruise stop. Wander the pastel-hued lanes of Old San Juan, savour local flavours and rum, or head beyond the city for golden beaches and lush rainforest scenery. With its blend of history, music and sunshine, this vibrant port offers an unforgettable island welcome.

Like much of the Caribbean, St. John was hit hard by Hurricanes Irma and Maria in 2017, but rebuilding is restoring normality. Small and US-owned since 1917, it was Danish for nearly 250 years before that. Almost two-thirds is protected by Virgin Islands National Park, thanks to Laurence Rockefeller's 1956 gift of 5,000 acres. Its green hills and white beaches remain stunning, and marine life has thrived, with coral reefs, sea turtles, reef sharks and stingrays abundant.

Gustavia, St Barthelemy's capital, is a chic Caribbean harbor town of red roofs, yachts, boutiques, bars, and French flair. From the lighthouse, you can gaze over waters loved by celebrities and divers. The island was first named by Columbus in 1493, later a Swedish colony, and returned to France in 1878; its heritage remains at Fort Karl above Shell Beach. Nearby are shell-strewn shores, turquoise waters, and quiet gems like Colombier Beach-ideal for a sunset rum cocktail.

St. Kitts is a lush volcanic island of crystal-clear Caribbean waters, reefs, white-sand beaches, rainforests, and a laid-back "limin" vibe. Explore vine-tangled trails, snorkel or dive with turtles and wrecks, or ride Basseterre's scenic sugar train through unspoiled landscapes. In Basseterre, see the Berkeley Memorial and Independence Square, and visit Brimstone Hill Fortress, the "Gibraltar of the West Indies," a UNESCO World Heritage Site with sweeping coastal views.

Montserrat is one of the Caribbean's most dramatic islands: relatively undeveloped, with hidden beaches, creeks, and rich natural beauty, and likely an emerging eco-tourism spot. Its history is shaped by volcanic activity, especially the 1995 Soufrière Hills eruption that buried much of the main city, earning it the nickname "Pompeii of the Caribbean." Also called the "emerald isle," it has lush forests, Irish-like coasts, even Guinness-and beautiful Little Bay, the island's future capital.

Jost Van Dyke is a tiny Caribbean island of turquoise water, white sand, and palm-lined beaches. Drop your shoes, swim in crystal-clear teal seas, snorkel among colorful fish, and relax at White Bay's beach bars. A short climb to Majohnny Hill reveals the island's beauty, while Bubbly Pool offers a natural jacuzzi. Known as a low-key celebrity hideaway, it's famous for rustic beach bars like Foxy's, where rum cocktails and cold beers fuel the party spirit.

Miami is a seaport city on Biscayne Bay in southeastern Florida, the "Cruise Capital of the World." The Port of Miami has led global cruise passenger traffic for over 20 years. Florida's second-largest city, it has about 5.5 million in its metro area and is a major center for finance, commerce, culture, media, entertainment, arts, and trade. Its name means "big water"; Spain claimed it in 1566, and it became U.S. territory in 1821. It is very flat, averaging 1.8 m above sea level.