Wave 1 Ports of Call

After leaving the buzz of Miami behind, the ship glides toward Philipsburg, where pastel buildings line the waterfront and crystal-clear waters invite swimming and shopping along the lively boardwalk. In Charlotte Amalie, history and natural beauty intertwine, with colonial architecture, hillside views, and bustling markets overlooking one of the world’s most picturesque harbors. The voyage continues to Puerto Plata, where golden beaches, lush mountains, and echoes of Dominican culture create a warm, welcoming finale before the ship turns back toward open sea, carrying memories of sunlit days and tropical horizons.

MIAMI, FLORIDA

PORT OF DEPARTURE

With its gorgeous beaches, vibrant neighborhoods and melting pot of cultures, the Magic City is the perfect place to spend a few days before you island hop. Jump-start your morning in true Miami style with a Cuban cafecito from a ventanita — a streetside shop window. Then climb the historic lighthouse at Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park on quiet Key Biscayne before lounging on the island’s secluded sandy shores. If you’re looking for a bit more action, head to South Beach — home to world-class restaurants, nightlife, shopping and lively beaches, all set against snap-worthy Art Deco buildings. Art lovers who visit Miami can head to Wynwood and explore the neighborhood’s colorful street murals and local galleries. Or take a trip back in time at the Renaissance-style Vizcaya estate, which offers a glimpse into Miami’s dazzling past.

INSIDER TIPS

Take the free trolley service for a scenic ride through various beach and mainland neighborhoods.
Watch for lifeguard flags at the beach: green is for calm waters, yellow signals moderate surf conditions, purple warns of jellyfish, and swimming is forbidden under a red flag.

INSIDER TIPS

A service charge is sometimes included at Dutch side restaurants, but you may wish to add 15% if the service was especially good.
In restaurants on the French side, it is customary to leave a cash tip of 5-10%.

PHILIPSBURG, ST. MAARTEN

PORT OF CALL

What makes St. Maarten so unique is its blend of cultures. The island is home to 120 different nationalities speaking over 80 languages, and is governed by two countries: the Netherlands and France. In fact, it’s the smallest land mass in the world to be shared by two different nations. While it may be less than 40 square miles, there’s plenty to do on this little island: you can travel back in time while exploring centuries-old ruins and get your adrenaline fix ziplining through lush tropical forests. If you’re after a little rest and relaxation during your cruise to St. Maarten, you’ll find plenty of secluded beaches where you can work on your suntan before treating your taste buds to some of the best cuisine in the Caribbean.

CHARLOTTE AMALIE, ST. THOMAS

PORT OF CALL

Charlotte Amalie is one of the world’s most beautiful harbors; blue waters peppered with sailboats and green hills dotted with quaint little cottages make for post-card perfect brags. Just outside the lively port town, you’ll find ribbons of powdery sand beaches dotted with hammocks. Cruise to St. Thomas and explore colonial landmarks like Blackbeard’s Castle or raise a pint of the local lager at quaint microbreweries. And when it’s time to fuel up, you’ll find plenty of beachside bars serving conch fritters, johnnycakes, and coconut patties. St. Thomas may technically be part of the U.S., but with its colorful markets, unspoiled beaches, and the ever-present sound of steel drums, you’ll feel a world away.

INSIDER TIPS

Visit Cabarete, known as the kitesurfing capital, to give this water sport a try.
You can explore Monte Isabel de Torres on your own.
See Charcos de Damajagua, which is composed of 27 waterfalls with canyons.

PUERTO PLATA, DOMINICAN REPUBLIC

PORT OF CALL

Puerto Plata is the Dominican Republic's oldest city in the north and a tourism pioneer. Nestled by the ocean with a mountainous backdrop, the city offers a lively pier, which is known as the Malecon, colorful shops, and opulent homes from the 1800s. The city is famous for Parque Independencia (also known as Parque Central), a park fringed by royal palms and Victorian architecture. In Puerto Plata, you can hop on a cable car for sky-high views, take a tour of the local cacao farms, and buy some of the clearest amber in the world.