Friendly Caribbean Islands: The 5 Most Welcoming Cruise Destinations

There are many friendly Caribbean islands that you can visit during a vacation, where the locals go above and beyond when welcoming visitors into their corner of the world. This is especially enticing for cruisers, as you don’t want to feel like an intruder when you are traveling to somewhere new. For many cruisers, getting to know the local communities is the entire appeal of traveling anyway, so it is crucial to go somewhere that you know you will be welcomed. If you are looking for a warm and welcoming destination for your next Caribbean cruise adventure, then we have just the thing for you. Here are our top picks for the most friendly islands in the Caribbean.

Aruba

The island of Aruba describes itself as “One Happy Island,” and with branding like that, it shouldn’t be a surprise that it would end up on a list of friendly Caribbean islands. Although it is only 75 square miles, it still houses a diverse multicultural atmosphere with a mix of Dutch, Spanish, and indigenous influences, making for a very inclusive and welcoming environment. As visitors explore the bustling markets and lively beach bars, the locals live up to their affable reputation with warm smiles and joyous laughter. Ask anyone who has visited Aruba and they are sure to have stories of the locals going out of their way to make everyone feel like a cherished guest, solidifying their reputation as one of the most friendly islands in the Caribbean.

St. Lucia

When you cruise to St. Lucia, you will first be struck by the tranquil beauty of its mountainous terrain covered in forest and set against clear, blue skies. But when you meet the locals on your adventures across this island paradise, you will find their disposition just as soothing and awe-inspiring as the landscapes. To fully experience why this is one of the most friendly islands in the Caribbean, embark on community-led excursions for a personal exploration guided by the people who live there, who often go above and beyond to ensure visitors have an authentic and enjoyable experience. Don’t be afraid to check out local festivals and events, as they are very accessible and provide a great opportunity to brush elbows with the locals.

Barbados

The next of our friendly Caribbean islands is Barbados, fittingly called the “Island of Smiles” for the warm greetings and genial interactions from the locals. The island boasts a long history of shared cultural appreciation and a tradition of accessibility, making it very easy for cruisers to connect with the community through local markets, street festivals, and community events. To get to know the Bajans on a more personal level, head to one of their pristine beaches where locals and visitors commingle and share in the beauty and tranquility of island life. There aren’t many places that can match Barbados when it comes to a laid-back and friendly disposition towards its visitors.

Grenada

Grenada, known as the “Isle of Spice,” is a place where the warmth of the locals matches the zest of its renowned spices, earning its place among the most friendly Caribbean islands. Grenadians tend to have a genuine interest in sharing their culture and traditions with anyone who visits the island, offering an inviting and educational experience for cruisers. While here, you can learn from the locals by joining community-led excursions and initiatives, like spice plantation tours or local cooking classes. But to truly get a sense of why this is one of the most friendly islands, cruisers should venture past the tourist hubs and engage with local communities across the island. You will not be disappointed!

Dominica

Finishing our list of friendly Caribbean islands is Dominica, referred to as the “Nature Island” due to its lush forest and stunning landscapes. The people of this island share a commitment to community-focused tourism, meaning that the locals actively participate in welcoming visitors and guiding activities. While visiting, cruisers are encouraged to engage in eco-friendly excursions with the residents, where they can have an enriching experience while getting to know the locals on a more personal level. Visitors are also welcomed to come celebrate at Dominica’s festivals and events, where they can learn about their traditions while experiencing exactly why this is one of the most friendly islands a cruiser can visit!

To book Caribbean cruises to any of these friendly islands, visit Cruises.com — we can help you book the smart way! We give you our exclusive bonus offers and all qualifying cruise line offers, plus all of the cruise line loyalty program benefits. Book online at Cruises.com or call 800-288-6006 today.

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