This book approaches the Caribbean and the different ports there from the point of view of the cruiser. If you're looking for a comprehensive guide to everything that there is to do in the various places mentioned, this book isn't for you. That's not what this book is for.

This book starts out with a general overview of cruising to help you identify the pros and cons of the various cruise lines--whether you want a mega-ship or a smaller, more intimate ship, and how to find the best itinerary for you. It then gives a very brief run down on the various lines from the mainstream lines to the ultraluxury lines, telling you a little bit more about what type of ship they are as well as what sort of passengers each line will attract. It also talks about what you may need to know before you go on your cruise, from information on passports to money to what you should pack for the cruise. And after that, it will take you into the ports of Embarkation for your Caribbean cruise, talking about things like the hotels, area restaurants, shopping, tours, nightlife, the beaches, etc.

Finally you get to the meat of the book--the different ports of call in the Caribbean, including a short section on cruise line private islands. Again, though, keep in mind that this book is not all inclusive. It's goal is to present an overview of these stops, and what the author (and perhaps the editor) think are the best things to do in these areas. Their ideas may not be your ideas of what makes a great vacation. You will get an overview of the port, whether or not you should book an excursion in that port or if you don't need one. They'll tell you the official language of the country, what currency they use, how to get around the country, etc.

For each stop, you will find a few options for the best shore excursions offered by the cruise lines. Since this is not cruise line specific, your ship may or may not offer the excursion, or it may be slightly different from what is listed in the book. Also, the price listed likely won't be all that accurate, but at least it will give you an idea of what to expect to pay for it. You will also find some ideas for excursions that are offered by reputable local tour agencies. It'll talk about what you'll find close to the port that you could walk to, and things to do in each country that would require a bit more thought on how to get there, such as by taxi. You will also find information on shopping (and whether each port is a good deal, or what in that port is a good deal and what to avoid), beaches, and local sports and activities. You will also find information on a few restaurants in each port as well. What you won't find is information about hotels (except for places like San Juan, Puerto Rico, which could be an embarkation port as well).

There is enough information in this book for both the first time cruiser not knowing what to expect on their vacation as well as more seasoned cruisers to make this a valuable guide. I don't know if this is the only source of information I would use for the stops, but it definitely should be one that every cruiser own. ( )

Very excited for my honeymoon coming up! So of course I liked this book haha. ( )