Explore with Viking—Caribbean & Central America

Uncover Antigua’s British influences and lush landscapes as you travel to the heart of the island. Drive with your guide into the tropical countryside, passing villages and gently rolling hills. At English Harbour, used by the British fleet during the 18th century, you will take in sweeping coastal views from Shirley Heights Lookout, once the principal British fortification. Back at the harbor’s edge, stop to explore Nelson’s Dockyard, one of the Caribbean’s most celebrated sites and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The yard was named for Admiral Horatio Nelson, who commanded the navy here for three years. It is the last remaining Georgian dockyard still in use today. Explore the Admiral’s Inn, the museum and the art gallery to uncover insights into Antigua’s past. See the sleek yachts tied to the old stone quay while sipping on a drink here before returning to your ship.

Relax along the turquoise waters of Carlisle Bay for a few tranquil hours. This crescent-shaped bay and natural harbor, named for the Earl of Carlisle during the 1600s, was once teeming with British merchant ships. Today, pleasure boats and yachts dot the waters, creating a picturesque Caribbean scene. Begin your journey to the beach with a brief drive through Bridgetown, passing several of its most famous landmarks. Upon arriving at Carlisle Bay, which boasts one of the longest and widest beaches on Barbados, enjoy a complimentary drink and an orientation to the facilities. Then settle in to your reserved beach chair (umbrella included) with a mini-prosecco to soak up the sun, or swim and perhaps snorkel. The calm and shallow waters of the bay make for a pleasant idyll, and there will be light snacks and additional drinks available for purchase.

Admire stunning sights during a scenic cruise to view the iconic Pitons and beautiful Marigot Bay. Meet your crew and board your vessel, then sit back and relax as you sail from the port and watch the natural beauty of St. Lucia unfold around you. Sail past charming fishing villages that dot the coastline and gaze upon lush mountain ridges as you approach Gros and Petit Piton. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, these two magnificent volcanic spires bookend Jalousie Bay and reach heights of more than 2,400 feet. After circling Soufrière Bay, continue northward while enjoying refreshing complimentary beverages as you head to Marigot Bay, once described by American novelist James A. Michener as “the most beautiful bay in the Caribbean.” Pause to admire its sheltered waters surrounded verdant mountains, before beginning your return journey to shore and your ship.

Explore the tropical landscape of Puerto Rico’s rainforest. Begin your tour with a stop for refreshments at a local bakery, then travel to El Yunque—a vast expanse covering 28,000 acres of virgin forest and the only tropical rainforest in the US national forest system. During a gentle walk, you will admire tree species and forest ferns and listen out for the sounds of the tiny endemic coquí tree frogs. Keep your eyes peeled for the colorful Puerto Rican parrot or the beautiful orchids that thrive here. Stop at the El Portal Visitor Center to gain a better understanding of the tropical forests and the practices needed for their sound management and preservation. At Yokahú Tower, climb the steps for unparalleled views over nearby islands and enjoy a photo stop at La Coca Falls before returning to your ship.

Explore the important monuments and plazas of historic Old San Juan by foot. Begin your guided walk over the quarter’s cobblestone streets to Fort San Cristóbal, the largest fortress built by Spain in the New World, where you can pause for photos of the mighty citadel and its stunning Caribbean backdrop. Enjoy sweeping views of the bay and the governor’s mansion at the Plazuela de la Rogativa, which commemorates the city’s miraculous evasion from sacking by the British during the 16th century. Pass the San Juan Gate, an impressive remnant of the three-mile-long wall that once encircled the city. Admire the historic, neoclassical-style Cathedral of San Juan Bautista, the oldest cathedral in the US. Stroll to the Plaza de Armas, where you will view the Four Seasons Fountain and its four 19th-century marble statues, then return to your ship.

Discover vibrant Roseau during a scenic guided tour of this charming Caribbean capital. Drive through the “City of Verandas,” one of the widespread examples of Creole vernacular architecture found throughout Roseau, while your knowledgeable guide provides lively commentary on the city’s history. Visit Abilities Unlimited, a local craft workshop that helps the visually impaired learn skills and earn an income by producing baskets and other craft items. Learn how the center supports its workers and get to know some of their stories. Make a brief stop at the Botanical Gardens, where your guide will point out plants of interest such as banyan trees and David the Goliath, a giant African baobab tree toppled by Hurricane David in 1979. Enjoy panoramic views of Roseau and the countryside from atop Morne Bruce, then drive past landmark buildings en route to your ship.

Immerse yourself in the lush beauty and rich culture and history of St. Kitts. Discover Basseterre, with its traditional French and Victorian architecture, old churches, West Indian cottages and former slave market, with insightful narrative from your local driver. At the Romney Manor botanical gardens and Caribelle Batik studios, stroll stunning pathways lined with tropical flora and observe local artisans as they produce colorful batik fabrics. You will also visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Brimstone Hill Fortress. Take a walk through the 1690 citadel, admiring sweeping ocean views as you learn about its fascinating history. At the Fairview Great House and Botanical Garden, explore preserved rooms, including the original kitchen and the bathing room, and explore the lush tropical garden that dates back to the 1700s. After, return to your ship.

Relax on “island time” during this laid-back excursion to some of Tortola’s most scenic spots. Meet your guide and driver, then board an open-air safari bus, heading out of Road Town via Fort Hill and climbing through lush brush. Connect with Ridge Road, which forms a spine along Tortola’s uppermost heights, with breathtaking views of azure waters and blankets of green everywhere you look. Stop for photos and admire spectacular views of the British Virgin Islands; you will also pass a vivid mural painted by local artists which depicts scenes of life after the islands’ emancipation from slavery in 1834. Next, continue west and descend to Cane Garden Bay, where you can relax on a palm-lined beach of crystal clear water and white sand. Enjoy a refreshment here along with free time to swim or grab a snack or drink at the restaurant and bar. Later, return to your ship.