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| 18th18 | JanJan | 202525 | San Juan (Puerto Rico), Puerto Rico, embark on the Emerald Azzurra | | |
| 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 luxurious yacht cruise begins in San Juan, where you’ll be transferred to your Emerald Cruises luxury yacht and embark on your discovery of the Virgin Islands and Puerto Rico. Please book your flight to arrive into San Juan prior to 08:00 PM. |
| 19th19 | JanJan | 202525 | Culebra Island, Puerto Rico | | |
Culebra is widely known for its white-sand beaches and active reef and is one of the major islands in Puerto Rico’s archipelago. This island offers plenty for nature lovers, giving you peace and tranquillity in a truly pristine destination. There are more than 20 cays bustling with diverse marine life, making it an absolute paradise for underwater adventurers and casual beachgoers alike. Today, join a shuttle to visit Flamenco beach. Opportunity to spend the day swimming off the yacht and enjoying our marina toys. After lunch we set sail to Vieques Island. The quaint coastal town of Esperanza has a lovely waterfront with gorgeous beaches and a bustling strip of restaurants, bars, and guesthouses. One can walk along the boulevard and visit the various establishments for a glimpse into the local culture and activities on offer. Locals enjoy spending the afternoon at Sun Bay, the main urban beach located in the town’s eastern outskirts. DiscoverMORE
Kayaking in the Bioluminescent Bay (extra expense, must be pre-booked)
Experience the magic of bioluminescent waters on this unforgettable kayaking adventure at Mosquito Bay, Vieques. Embark on your kayaking adventure in double kayaks. Paddle under the blanket of the night sky and marvel at the sparkling swirls of bioluminescent water created by your paddles and the darting fish that leave trails of light behind them. Learn about the microorganisms that give the water its magical glow and the importance of preserving this natural wonder.
Activity Level: Moderate, Duration: 2 hours |
| 20th20 | JanJan | 202525 | Saint John Island, U.S. Virgin Islands | | |
| St. John, the smallest most idyllic of the three United States Virgin Islands, is best known for its dozens of post card perfect white sand beaches, turquoise bays abounding in colourful corals & rainbows of tropical fish endless vistas of green velvet hills. Only nine miles long (14.5 kilometres) and three miles (4.8 kilometres) wide, two thirds of the island is the Virgin Islands National Park, so its spectacular beaches & untouched forests will remain that way for generations to come and remain accessible to all. There are tours of the National Park by Jeep or safari bus and hikes on spectacular trails led by Park Rangers who enrich the experience with talks on the island's history and geology as well as its flora & fauna. While it is only twenty minutes from St. Thomas by convenient hourly ferry, St. John is the peaceful, uncommercialised paradise of island fantasies. It has no high-rise buildings, cruise ship docks or airport. Visitors can obtain discounted air fares to St. Thomas. Despite its unspoiled atmosphere, it offers every facility and amenity found at major resorts. Cruz Bay is the economic and social hub of St. John, with a busy inter-island ferry dock connecting it to other islands in the region. The busy bay is dotted with restaurants and shops, and beautiful Caribbean architecture can be seen in Mongoose Junction as one takes a gentle stroll through town. Today choose between our Included Excursion or our EmeraldACTIVE option. In the evening, set sail to Jost Van Dyke, one of the main islands in the British Virgin Islands. Included Excursion
St. John Island tour with Annaberg Plantation Ruins
Explore the stunning beauty and rich history of St. John on this scenic island drive. You'll board an open-air safari transportation for a comprehensive tour of the island's most iconic locations. Visit the 18th-century Annaberg sugar mill ruins. Stroll among the stone remnants of this historic plantation, surrounded by vibrant greenery and flowers. Learn about the island's sugar production history and the significance of this site.
Activity Level: Easy, Duration: 3 hours EmeraldACTIVE
National Park Hike & Snorkelling
Immerse yourself in the natural beauty of St. John with a guided hike through the Virgin Islands National Park. Your adventure begins in the quaint village of Cruz Bay, from there, your knowledgeable nature guide will lead you on a one-mile hike along the Lind Point Trail, heading towards the North Shore of St. John. The trail offers gentle terrain but is unpaved, requiring good walking shoes for support.
Activity Level: Moderate, Duration: 3 hours DiscoverMORE
Snorkelling at Trunk Bay (extra expense)
Embark on an extraordinary yachting land adventure that unveils the unparalleled beauty of Trunk Bay, renowned as one of the top ten most exquisite beaches worldwide. As you step aboard an open-air safari bus, get ready to be whisked away on a scenic drive through the picturesque hills of St. John. Equipped with high-quality snorkelling gear provided by our knowledgeable guides, dive into the crystal-clear waters of the National Park Service's underwater marked trails.Take in the sights of colourful fish darting among the coral reefs, while informative plaques on the seabed offer insights into the fascinating ecosystem that thrives beneath the surface.
Activity Level: Moderate-Strenuous, Duration: 2 hours |
| 20th20 | JanJan | 202525 | Great Harbour, Jost Van Dyke, British Virgin Islands | | |
| Jost Van Dyke, four miles long, is truly known as the 'barefoot island'. The smallest of the British Virgin Islands, it is known as a popular destination for yachts and is celebrated for its casual lifestyle, protected anchorages, fine beaches and beachfront restaurants and bars. The island has fewer than 200 inhabitants and they are widely known as a welcoming people. The island's name conjures up its rich, colorful past. Jost Van Dyke is said to have been named for an early Dutch settler, a former pirate. At Great Harbour, Little Harbour, and White Bay there are safe, protected bays and pristine beaches shaded with coconut palms and seagrape trees. Discover inviting shops selling local treasures, restaurants, and bars. 'The Painkiller', one of the Caribbean’s most popular drinks, originated at the Soggy Dollar Bar. Foxy’s and Gertrude's in White Bay are renowned for drinks made with the island's famous rum, frosty beers, and tales of pirates and sunken treasure. Explore Jost Van Dyke's history in the vegetation-covered ruins of centuries-old sugar mills, or on the old trails that crisscross the island. Revel in the natural beauty of the pristine, untouched beaches. Hike up to the highest spot on the island, Majohnny Point, and take in a stunning 360 degree view of the Caribbean. Relax in the natural 'bubble pool', a popular tourist attraction. Jost Van Dyke conjures up images of what the British Virgin Islands may have looked like many years ago. |
| 21st21 | JanJan | 202525 | Virgin Gorda, British Virgin Islands | | |
The island of Virgin Gorda, named because it resembles a reclining woman, is part of the British Virgin Islands. It's known for its laid-back pace and picturesque landscapes. Among the natural wonders of Virgin Gorda, the Baths are arguably the most famous. They are a series of pools and grottoes created by a collection of massive granite boulders that were formed by volcanic eruptions. EmeraldPLUS
BBQ lunch on fully equipped beach with live band
Enjoy a fully equipped beach, complete with lounge chairs, vibrant beach umbrellas, and powdery white sand beneath your feet. Settle in for a delicious BBQ lunch, surrounded by the laid-back atmosphere and breathtaking views of the crystal-clear ocean. As you indulge in your meal, the sound of live music floats through the air, courtesy of a talented local band. Their Caribbean rhythms and soulful melodies have you swaying to the beat, feeling carefree and relaxed. |
| 22nd22 | JanJan | 202525 | Philipsburg, Sint Maarten (Dutch part) | | |
| The capital of Dutch St. Maarten stretches about a mile (1½ km) along an isthmus between Great Bay and the Salt Pond and has five parallel streets. Most of the village's dozens of shops and restaurants are on Front Street, narrow and cobblestone, closest to Great Bay. It's generally congested when cruise ships are in port, because of its many duty-free shops and several casinos. Little lanes called steegjes connect Front Street with Back Street, which has fewer shops and considerably less congestion. Along the beach is a ½-mile-long (1-km-long) boardwalk with restaurants and several Wi-Fi hot spots.Wathey Square (pronounced watty) is in the heart of the village. Directly across from the square are the town hall and the courthouse, in a striking white building with cupola. The structure was built in 1793 and has served as the commander's home, a fire station, a jail, and a post office. The streets surrounding the square are lined with hotels, duty-free shops, restaurants, and cafés. The Captain Hodge Pier, just off the square, is a good spot to view Great Bay and the beach that stretches alongside. With its blend of Dutch and Caribbean influences, Philipsburg presents a bustling port town with a vibrant atmosphere, striking colonial architecture, and stunning beaches. It also offers a range of activities and attractions, including historic sites and a lively street market where you can sample the local cuisine, and peruse the island arts and crafts. You will set sailing to Gustavia in the evening. DiscoverMORE
Culture & History Tour (extra expense)
Embark on an enlightening journey through the scenic routes of Saint Martin, a unique island that shares two distinct cultures under two national flags. This historical tour offers a comprehensive view of the island's rich past and vibrant present, covering both the Dutch and French sides. Relive the stories of our ancestors, understand the island's struggles, and learn about the origin of the name "Soualiga," which means "Land of Salt”. Learn about the island's colonial history and the development of its vibrant port.
Activity Level: Easy, Duration: 3 hours 30 minutes DiscoverMORE
Buggy Tour (extra expense)
Set off in a caravan-style drive, navigating through the stunning landscapes of St. Maarten in your 4x4 all-terrain vehicle. Enjoy the picturesque views as you drive through the island's diverse terrain, from coastal roads to lush countryside, taking in the natural beauty and vibrant local life. Arrive at the renowned Maho Beach, where you can bask in the sun, relax on the white sandy shores, and experience the thrill of watching airplanes land close overhead.
Activity Level: Moderate, Duration: 4 hours |
| 23rd23 | JanJan | 202525 | Gustavia, Saint Barthélemy | | |
| You can easily explore all of Gustavia during a two-hour stroll. Some shops close from noon to 3 or 4, so plan lunch accordingly, but stores stay open past 7 in the evening. Parking in Gustavia is a challenge, especially during vacation times. A good spot to park is rue de la République, alongside the catamarans, yachts, and sailboats. Named for Sweden’s King Gustav III, Gustavia is the charming capital and main seaport of the island of Saint Barthélemy, also known as St. Barth. It is often considered to be one of the most beautiful islands in the Caribbean and a tropical paradise with French flair. You will enjoy the beauty of its large idyllic beaches, plus the charm and refinement of its old wooden houses. DiscoverMORE
Discover St. Barths (extra expense)
Experience the beauty and charm of St. Barts on a comprehensive island discovery tour led by the knowledgeable and friendly guide. As Ernest navigates through the bustling streets of Gustavia, you'll have the opportunity to soak in the vibrant atmosphere of this picturesque Caribbean town. Enjoy panoramic views of the coastline and iconic landmarks as you journey around the island, with several stops planned along the way to enrich your understanding of St. Barts rich history, diverse culture, and stunning natural beauty.
Activity Level: Easy, Duration: 2 hours 30 minutes DiscoverMORE
Snorkelling tour (extra expense)
Enjoy an exhilarating snorkelling adventure exploring the crystal-clear waters surrounding Gustavia. In Colombier Bay, you can swim alongside colourful fish, discover coral formations, and soak in the natural beauty of this pristine underwater paradise. After, you set sail to Gros Ilets, another fantastic snorkelling spot located at the entrance of Gustavia. Here, you'll continue your underwater exploration, encountering a diverse array of marine species in this thriving ecosystem.
Activity Level: Moderate, Duration: 2 hours Opportunity to spend the day swimming off the yacht and enjoying our marina toys. |
| 24th24 | JanJan | 202525 | Little Bay, Montserrat | | |
Welcome to one of the most unusual and fascinating islands in the Caribbean. Prior to the recent volcanic eruptions that commenced in 1995, Montserrat was considered as one of the “Insiders” favourite Caribbean islands. It was also home to producer George Martin’s Air Studios Montserrat recording studio where some of the world’s most famous recording artists, including Eric Clapton, Little River Band and Paul McCartney among many others, used to record their albums. Recent history has brought some unfortunate blows to the island ranging from hurricanes (Hugo in 1989) to multiple volcanic eruptions that destroyed the lovely capital city of Plymouth. DiscoverMORE
Volcano Views, Plymouth & Monserrat Volcano Observatory (extra expense)
See the “active” Soufriere Hills Volcano on Montserrat from Plymouth port and learn why it may be called the Pompeii of the Caribbean. No visitor to Montserrat should leave without having an encounter with Montserrat’s most captivating phenomena.On this excursion you will travel to Jack Boy Hill where you can see the volcano and remnants of WH Bramble Airport now completely buried by volcanic lava flows. Then it's on to a lookout point over Plymouth, which is in what's called the Exclusion Zone, or Zone V; because this area sits in the path of the greatest current volcanic activity and there is limited public access.
Activity Level: Moderate, Duration: 4 hours DiscoverMORE
National Trust Botanical Garden Tour (extra expense)
Discover Montserrat's Healing Plants and Herbs. Embark on a tranquil journey through the Montserrat National Trust Gardens, where you will be introduced to the island’s rich variety of healing plants and herbs. This guided tour offers an immersive experience into Montserrat’s traditional medicinal practices, as you explore vibrant gardens filled with native flora used for centuries to promote health and well-being. Learn about the island’s natural remedies, from soothing teas to healing balms, and discover how these plants are still used today in local culture and holistic health practices.
Activity Level: Moderate, Duration: 2.5 hours |
| 25th25 | JanJan | 202525 | Antigua, Antigua and Barbuda, disembark the Emerald Azzurra | | |
Your time aboard your Emerald Cruises luxury yacht comes to an end in St. John’s. After bidding farewell to the crew and your fellow guests, you will be transferred to the airport for your return flight home. Please book your flight to depart out of St John's after 11:00 AM. *Please verify with the Shore Excursion Manager onboard whether a DiscoverMORE tour is available on disembarkation day.
The itinerary is a guide only and may be amended for operational reasons. As such Emerald Cruises cannot guarantee the cruise will be operated unaltered from the itinerary states above.
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