Exploring the Western Caribbean

A Five-Port Cruise Adventure from Galveston

With Galveston just a short drive away, Texans have plenty of opportunities to explore the Western Caribbean. 

Here are 5 ports of call that offer a blend of beaches, history and local culture.

Cozumel, Mexico

Cozumel is an island off the eastern coast of Mexico's Yucatán Peninsula. 

Galveston cruisers often joke that it is the 'required' port stop for almost every cruise out of Galveston. 

Choosing different excursions can offer variety to a port stop that you visit often! 

Snorkelers and divers can explore the colorful coral formations and swim alongside a diverse array of marine species in the world-famous Palancar Reef.

For those who prefer land-based activities, the ancient Mayan ruins of San Gervasio offer a fascinating glimpse into the island's past.

We enjoyed a Mayan cooking class that gave us some history of the Mayan culture as well as hands-on food preparation and plenty of Mayan dishes to sample.

George Town,

Grand Cayman

Grand Cayman is the largest of the Cayman Islands. 

George Town, the capital, is lined with duty-free shops, high-end boutiques, and local craft markets.

Seven Mile Beach, consistently ranked among the best beaches in the world, offers soft white sands and clear turquoise waters perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and water sports.

A visit to Stingray City is a must, providing a fun opportunity to swim with friendly stingrays in their natural habitat.

The Cayman Islands National Museum is Cayman's oldest surviving public building and offers 6 exhibition galleries that showcase the island's history and culture.

Falmouth, Jamaica

Founded in 1769, Falmouth retains much of its charming Georgian architecture.

Adventure seekers can enjoy bamboo rafting on the Martha Brae River, a journey through tropical foliage accompanied by stories and legends from local guides.

The nearby Good Hope Estate provides a mix of history and adventure with activities like zip-lining and river tubing, set against the backdrop of an 18th-century sugar plantation.

No visit to Jamaica is complete without sampling authentic jerk chicken.

The island’s lively music scene, featuring reggae and dancehall, provides the perfect soundtrack to your exploration.

Roatán, Honduras

Roatán is the largest of the Bay Islands of Honduras. 

The Mesoamerican Barrier Reef, the second-largest coral reef system in the world, offers exceptional snorkeling and diving experiences with beautiful coral formations and diverse marine life.

On land, the Gumbalimba Park is a botanical garden and animal encounter.

Stroll through lush gardens, encounter playful monkeys, and zip-line through the treetops for an exhilarating view of the island.

For a more relaxed day, West Bay Beach is perfect for sunbathing and swimming in crystal-clear waters.

Belize City, Belize

Belize City, the largest city in Belize, is a gateway to a variety of natural and historical wonders.

While the city itself is not the best destination, it is hub to Ambergris Caye to enjoy the beaches with a resort day pass or a land adventure. 

About 45 minutes away you can find the ancient Mayan ruins of Altun Ha. 

This site provides a fascinating excursion into the past, with well-preserved temples and plazas nestled in the jungle. 

Alternatively, a visit to the Belize Zoo offers a chance to see native wildlife in naturalistic habitats, including jaguars, toucans, and howler monkeys.