CRUISING

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It's easy to understand why the Caribbean is the world's first choice for a cruising vacation. Carried on the warm, blue waters, you get a taste of life in different countries without having to worry about baggage or accommodation. And when the cruise ship leaves port for the next leg of your Caribbean vacation, you can escape from the world beyond the horizon and relax in the comfort of your floating hotel. 

What could be a little more difficult is deciding on the Caribbean cruise vacation that's right for you. More than 20 cruise lines operate in the Caribbean, and between them they offer vacation choices that are almost as varied as the region itself. From the romance of a fully-rigged clipper carrying fewer than 100 passengers to a large modern liner providing thousands of vacationers with everything they'd expect in a grand hotel, the ships of the Caribbean will take you on an unforgettable getaway. 

The large liners operate year-round, with 3-10 day itineraries in the Caribbean's three major cruise areas. Western region cruises take you to Mexico for a taste of Latin American and Mayan culture. On an Eastern cruise you could explore the Bahamas and St Thomas, while a Southern route might visit Puerto Rico and Grenada. Most of them give passengers plenty of time for sightseeing and shopping. 

Some major in gambling, while others appeal to gourmets, specialize in honeymoons or are particularly child-friendly. Many cruise liners have health spas, and most provide entertainment ranging from dance bands to discos, cabaret to karaoke. If you're not interested in the stars on stage, you can spend the evening on deck gazing at the sky and watching the moonlight on the waves. 

If you want to be with people who share your passions, pick a themed Caribbean cruise. There are cruises for music lovers, sports fans and gardeners. Others getaway vacations focus on history, the arts and culture. Christmas cruises need no explanation. You name it, they theme it. 

Smaller ships offer greater flexibility in itinerary and a more do-it-yourself approach to leisure and pleasure. When you spot the perfect bay for a picnic, just ask the captain to drop anchor. If he can, he will. He might also let you swab the decks or put on more sail when you've had enough sunbathing, swimming, diving, eating and gazing at the scenery. 

And for the sailor who wants to chart his own course, professional yacht charterers offer a choice among some of the world's most beautiful sailing ground, on a range of craft, with a crew or bareboat. 

Choose your cruise and savour the freedom of the Caribbean.