Caribbean escapade

Your luxurious yacht cruise begins on the island of Puerto Rico and its capital, San Juan, the oldest European-founded city in the Americas. Here, you’ll be transferred to your Emerald Cruises luxury yacht for the start of your enthralling Caribbean discovery.

Please book your flight to arrive into San Juan prior to 01:00 PM.

If you associate Puerto Rico's capital with the colonial streets of Old San Juan, then you know only part of the picture. San Juan is a major metropolis, radiating out from the bay on the Atlantic Ocean that was discovered by Juan Ponce de León. More than a third of the island's nearly 4 million citizens proudly call themselves sanjuaneros. The city may be rooted in the past, but it has its eye on the future. Locals go about their business surrounded by colonial architecture and towering modern structures.By 1508 the explorer Juan Ponce de León had established a colony in an area now known as Caparra, southeast of present-day San Juan. He later moved the settlement north to a more hospitable peninsular location. In 1521, after he became the first colonial governor, Ponce de León switched the name of the island—which was then called San Juan Bautista in honor of St. John the Baptist—with that of the settlement of Puerto Rico ("rich port").Defended by the imposing Castillo San Felipe del Morro (El Morro) and Castillo San Cristóbal, Puerto Rico's administrative and population center remained firmly in Spain's hands until 1898, when it came under U.S. control after the Spanish-American War. Centuries of Spanish rule left an indelible imprint on the city, particularly in the walled area now known as Old San Juan. The area is filled with cobblestone streets and brightly painted, colonial-era structures, and its fortifications have been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site.Old San Juan is a monument to the past, but most of the rest of the city is planted firmly in the 21st century and draws migrants island-wide and from farther afield to jobs in its businesses and industries. The city captivates residents and visitors alike with its vibrant lifestyle as well as its balmy beaches, pulsing nightclubs, globe-spanning restaurants, and world-class museums. Once you set foot in this city, you may never want to leave.

Your first port of call is the capital island of the Turks and Caicos Islands, Grand Turk renowned for its beautiful white sandy beaches and crystal-clear turquoise waters that are perfect for snorkelling and diving. This small tropical island also boasts historic landmarks such as the Grand Turk Lighthouse and the Turks and Caicos National Museum, offering a fascinating glimpse into the island's rich history. While here, enjoy exploring the charming colonial architecture, shopping at local boutiques, and sampling delicious, fresh seafood dishes at waterfront restaurants.

Just 7 miles (11 km) long and a little more than 1 mile (1½ km) wide, this island, the capital and seat of the Turks and Caicos government, has been a longtime favorite destination for divers eager to explore the 7,000-foot-deep pristine coral walls that drop down only 300 yards out to sea. On shore, the tiny, quiet island is home to white-sand beaches, the National Museum, and a small population of wild horses and donkeys, which leisurely meander past the white-walled courtyards, pretty churches, and bougainvillea-covered colonial inns on their daily commute into town. But things aren't entirely sleepy: a cruise-ship complex at the southern end of the island brings about 600,000 visitors per year. That said, the dock is self-contained and is about 3 miles (5 km) from the tranquil, small hotels of Cockburn Town, Pillory Beach, and the Ridge and far from most of the western-shore dive sites. Pristine beaches with vistas of turquoise waters, small local settlements, historic ruins, and native flora and fauna are among the sights on Grand Turk. Fewer than 4,000 people live on this 7½-square-mile (19-square-km) island, and it's hard to get lost, as there aren't many roads.

On Long Island, Gordon's Beach is a stunning stretch of white sand coastline edged with swaying palm trees and lapped by   crystalline turquoise waters. The tranquil atmosphere and secluded location makes this an ideal spot for relaxation and soaking up the natural beauty of the island. Gordon’s Beach is known for its peaceful vibe, making it the perfect destination for those looking to escape the crowds and immerse themselves in the serene surroundings of the gorgeous Bahamas.

Also located in the Bahamas, the small island of San Salvador welcomes with a relaxed atmosphere and alluring natural beauty, prized for its pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and diverse marine life. San Salvador is a popular destination for diving and fishing enthusiasts due to its abundance of colourful coral reefs and shipwrecks. The island also boasts historical sites such as the Christopher Columbus Monument, commemorating the Italian explorer’s first landfall in the Americas in 1492.

 Amid The Bahamas Exuma Islands, Emerald Bay presents a stunning crescent-shaped beach of powdery white sand surrounded by sapphire blue-hued waters, thought to be some of the clearest in the world.  The pretty bay is surrounded by lush greenery and palm trees, creating a picturesque backdrop for an idyllic day of swimming, sunbathing, or enjoying water activities like snorkelling and kayaking. With its incredible pristine beauty and serene atmosphere, Emerald Bay is, unsurprisingly, regarded as a true tropical paradise.

The capital of the Bahamas, Nassau is a vibrant city and top tourist destination, renowned for its stunning beaches, offshore reefs and pastel-coloured, British colonial architecture. Here, you can explore historic sites such as the Queen's Staircase and Fort Charlotte, shop at the straw markets for local crafts, or alternatively, relax on the city’s famous Cable Beach. With its lively nightlife scene, delicious local cuisine specialising in fresh seafood, and warm, welcoming locals, Nassau offers visitors the perfect balance of relaxation and excitement.

Nassau's sheltered harbor bustles with cruise-ship activity, while a block away Bay Street's sidewalks are crowded with shoppers who duck into air-conditioned boutiques and relax on benches in the shade of mahogany and lignum vitae trees. Shops angle for tourist dollars with fine imported goods at duty-free prices, yet you'll find a handful of stores overflowing with authentic Bahamian crafts, food supplies, and other delights. With a revitalization of downtown ongoing—the revamped British Colonial Hilton leading the way—Nassau is recapturing some of its past glamour. Nevertheless, modern influences are completely apparent: fancy restaurants, suave clubs, and trendy coffeehouses have popped up everywhere. These changes have come partly in response to the growing number of upper-crust crowds that now supplement the spring breakers and cruise passengers who have traditionally flocked to Nassau. Of course, you can still find a wild club or a rowdy bar, but you can also sip cappuccino while viewing contemporary Bahamian art or dine by candlelight beneath prints of old Nassau, serenaded by soft, island-inspired calypso music. A trip to Nassau wouldn't be complete without a stop at some of the island's well-preserved historic buildings. The large, pink colonial-style edifices house Parliament and some of the courts, while others, like Fort Charlotte, date back to the days when pirates ruled the town. Take a tour via horse-drawn carriage for the full effect.

Your Emerald Cruises luxury voyage draws to a close in Miami. From the yacht, you’ll be transferred to the airport for your journey home or to continue your holiday.

Please book your flight to depart out of Miami after 02:00 PM.

The itinerary is a guide only and may be amended for operational reasons. As such Emerald Cruises cannot guarantee the cruise will operated unaltered from the itinerary states above. Please refer to our terms and conditions for further information.

Miami is one of the world’s most popular holiday spots. It has so much to offer; from its countless beach areas, to culture and museums, from spa and shopping days out, to endless cuban restaurants and cafes. Miami is a multicultural city that has something to offer to everyone.