Eastern Caribbean vs. Western Caribbean Cruises [Infographic]

The terms "eastern Caribbean" and "western Caribbean" were coined by the cruise industry to indicate the general areas ships would cover during any given Caribbean cruise itinerary. Western Caribbean cruises typically included destinations closer to the mainland U.S. and Mexico, like Cozumel, Grand Cayman, Jamaica and Belize. Eastern Caribbean cruises tend to stop at isles closer to the open Atlantic, like the British Virgin Islands, the Leeward Islands, St. Maarten and Puerto Rico.

Beyond physical location, there are a few factors to keep in mind when deciding between eastern Caribbean vs. western Caribbean cruises. Luckily, if you're looking for laid-back island culture and beautiful beaches, you really can't go wrong either way. Isles on both sides offer miles of pristine shoreline kissed by calm, crystal-clear turquoise waters. Some have been rated among the most beautiful shores in the world by news outlets and travel magazines. To the west, there's Jamaica's iconic Seven Mile Beach, Grand Cayman's legendary powder-white shores and Belize's secluded coves. In the east, St. Thomas beckons with world-renowned spots like Magens Bay. St. Maarten's Dawn Beach stuns with world-class snorkeling, and Puerto Rico's Condado and Isla Verde beaches bustle with water sports.

Level Up Beach Days on Western Caribbean Islands

While every isle in the west will satisfy the sun-seeker in you, there are some general differences between the Caribbean islands. When considering the eastern Caribbean vs. western Caribbean itineraries with an emphasis on water-based activities, go with the western isles. The waters that surround Cozumel, for example, are considered among the clearest in the world, making them ideal for snorkeling, fishing, and swimming with dolphins and gentle whale sharks.

Many western Caribbean ports you'll be cruising to — particularly Puerto Costa Maya and Nassau — have long histories of tourism. Because they host so many vacationers year-round, they're well-equipped with convenience-boosting amenities like easy-to-rent umbrellas and loungers at most beaches, plenty of seaside food stands and bars, and endless options for excursions and charters. If you're longing for lazy days on the beach and calm waters, nothing beats Grand Cayman, Jamaica and The Bahamas. For eco-tours, Key West, Roatan and Belize City are the heavy-hitters.

While most western Caribbean cruise routes feature the same iconic islands, there are some off-the-beaten-path gems that not every cruise will take you to. For a deep dive into the western Caribbean and all it has to offer, check out cruises that stop in Nassau, The Bahamas; Roatan, Honduras; Cozumel, Mexico; Puerto Costa Maya, Mexico; Falmouth, Jamaica; and George Town, Grand Cayman.

Immerse Yourself in the Many Cultures of the Eastern Caribbean Islands

Eastern Caribbean islands also offer amazing water activities and beachside amenities, but the biggest pull of this side of the Caribbean is the history and culture that pervades these islands. Now, this isn't to say the west is only known for its beaches. Cozumel and Belize have impressive Maya ruins and entire communities that still speak ancient Maya dialects. And Jamaica's vibrant culture shines through in its tantalizing cuisine, music and use of Jamaican Patois. But eastern Caribbean cruises add even more cultures into the mix.

Stops in St. Thomas reveal a rich blend of African, British, Arab and indigenous cultures created over centuries. St. Maarten is perhaps best known for its unique combination of African, British, Dutch and French heritage. In fact, the isle is actually split into nationalities — the French side is called St. Martin and the Dutch side is called St. Maarten. Children on either side are taught English, Dutch and French in schools today. And of course, Puerto Rico's colorful Hispanic flavor is apparent the moment you step off the ship and onto the cobblestone streets of Old San Juan. You'll hear it in the rhythmic reggaeton and sultry salsa that spills from open windows and see it in the impressive Malecon and massive fortresses built by Spaniards when the city was founded over 500 years ago.

Eastern Caribbean cruises typically feature stops in Charlotte Amalie, St. Thomas; Philipsburg, St. Maarten; Basseterre, St. Kitts and Nevis; St. Croix, U.S. Virgin Islands; San Juan, Puerto Rico; Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic; and St. Johns, Antigua.

How To Choose the Right Itinerary

Whether you opt to set sail to the east or west Caribbean islands, you're in for spectacular scenery, beautiful beaches, rich culture and warm hospitality. Some veteran cruisers feel the eastern islands offer more historical sites, a bit more diversity in terms of culture, and slightly more dramatic landscapes. Others prefer the western Caribbean isles for their calm, crystal-clear waters, abundance of wildlife and gorgeous beaches equipped with amenities that make every visit effortless. But ask any savvy traveler, and they'll likely advise you to try each side at least once. It's the only way to get a true feel for the two different regions and decide which destinations resonate most with you. Maybe you love the melting pot of cultures guaranteed on every eastern Caribbean cruise but long to return to the ancient Maya temples and cities in Cozumel and Belize. Or maybe in your book, the romantic bays of St. Thomas and the jet-set vibes of St. Croix trump the world-class diving in Roatan and the Florida Keys.

The beauty of the Caribbean islands is there's no right or wrong way to experience this wonderful corner of the world — it all depends on what sparks your wanderlust. Start planning your next getaway based on your personal vacation preferences, then plan a visit to the other side of the tropics.