All About Cruising

Is an Eastern or Western Caribbean Cruise Better?

Published March 15, 2021

Updated October 13, 2025

Travel Experts

at The Cruise Web

Norwegian Cruise Line shore excursion to the iconic Chichen Itza pyramid (El Castillo) in Mexico, a dramatic highlight of Western Caribbean cruises, beautifully lit by a sunset.
Norwegian Cruise Line shore excursion to the iconic Chichen Itza pyramid (El Castillo) in Mexico, a dramatic highlight of Western Caribbean cruises, beautifully lit by a sunset.

For a novice cruiser, Eastern vs. Western Caribbean cruises do not sound all too different. They are both the Caribbean, right? Well, yes. However, there are a few fundamental differences between the two itineraries that travelers should understand before booking their Caribbean getaway.

The only thing that makes an Eastern Caribbean cruise better than a Western Caribbean cruise, and vice versa, is a traveler’s personal taste. Find out exactly what it is that makes each of these itineraries unique, and all that each route has to offer with The Cruise Web.

Benefits of an Eastern Caribbean Cruise

View of an Eastern Caribbean beach with soft sand and gentle waves lapping at the shore.

Beaches & Island Hopping

The Eastern Caribbean is home to some of the most beautiful tropical beaches in the world, including the U.S. Virgin Islands, the British Virgin Islands, St. Maarten, and more.

Shopping & Bar Hopping

The island ports of the Eastern Caribbean are full of incredible duty-free clothing and jewelry shops, so you can shop ‘til you drop and save money while you do it.

Longer Cruises

Eastern Caribbean itineraries are generally seven or more days long, as these islands usually require a further journey from your port of embarkation (if sailing from the mainland United States).

View Eastern Caribbean Cruises

Highlights of a Western Caribbean Cruise

Ancient Mayan ruins surrounded by lush green trees under a blue sky, representing a historical excursion available to Carnival cruise passengers visiting Costa Maya, Mexico.

History & Nature

Explore ancient ruins, go bobsledding, or tour coffee plantations on a Western Caribbean Itinerary. This side of the Caribbean is home to ports in Mexico, Belize, Honduras, Grand Cayman, Jamaica, and more.

Embarking from Texas & Louisiana

Though you can sail to both the Eastern and Western Caribbean from Florida, the ports of Galveston, TX, and New Orleans, LA service Western Caribbean itineraries.

Shorter Cruises

The Western Caribbean offers several 4- to 5-night itineraries in addition to their longer journeys, perfect for those looking for a short and sweet cultural experience.

View Western Caribbean Cruises

To book your Eastern or Western Caribbean cruise today, call The Cruise Web at 1-800-377-9383 or visit us online at www.cruiseweb.com.