Voyages to Antiquity’s new Caribbean winter cruises

Holidaymakers will be able to discover a different side of Cuba and the Caribbean this winter thanks to Voyage to Antiquity’s inaugural cruise programme to the region.

From November 2017 the operator will offer year-round cruising, following the introduction of 12 new culture-focused itineraries across the Caribbean.

The sailings, which range from seven to 15 nights, will give passengers the chance to visit Cape Verde as the MV Aegean Odyssey makes its way to the Caribbean from Tenerife before exploring Barbados, St Lucia, Cuba, Antigua, Mexico and Jamaica.

In keeping with the cruise line’s trademark series of bringing destinations to life through expert guest speakers, Voyages to Antiquity has teamed up with historian, journalist and author Dr Carrie Gibson, around whose bestselling book Empire’s Crossroads: A History of the Caribbean from Columbus to the Present Day the new 2017-18 winter season is based.

As Carrie’s acclaimed tome traces the area’s history from discovery and colonialism to the modern day, the programme’s accompanying shore excursions combine lesser-known locations with an intimate, small-ship experience to help passengers enjoy the best of the Caribbean’s societal, historical and natural highlights.

Jos Dewing, managing director, Voyages to Antiquity, said:

“Whilst the Caribbean archipelago may already be a popular cruise destination, our new winter cruises are focused on helping holidaymakers journey beyond the traditional tourist spots for a more authentic Caribbean flavour.

“With just 350 passengers on every trip, our small ship cruising gives travellers the ideal opportunity to visit more exclusive harbours than traditional cruise ships can reach. We’re confident that our carefully selected programme of enlightening tours and informative talks will help guests immerse themselves in the local culture to create Caribbean memories that go deeper and last far longer than their tans.”