Caribbean cruises conjure up feelings of relaxation. After all, who wouldn't love to relax on a beautiful cruise ship, overlooking some of the clearest, bluest water in the world? Whether you've enjoyed taking a cruise in the past, or you're planning your first one, there are a number of popular places to enjoy a day off the ship.

Before you board however, check to see if you need a passport. In many cases, a visa isn't necessary, but this might vary by your cruise destination. Although being stuck on a luxurious ship wouldn't be the worst thing in the world, it's a good idea to make sure you're able to get out and enjoy the local culture.

Caribbean Cruises to Aruba

Whether you're interested in shopping, relaxing on the beach or taking part in outdoor activities like windsurfing, snorkeling, diving or fishing, a vacation in Aruba can be one that you'll remember for the rest of your life. The south coast of Aruba is a coral reef with more than 20 different dive sites and 11 wreckage sites, which makes it perfect for active vacationers.

Aruba also has a number of attractions, which makes it an ideal place for a day off a cruise ship. Natural wonders are everywhere throughout Arikok National Park, Casibari and Ayo rock formations and the Indian caves. If you prefer historic sites, consider visiting the Bushiribana gold mine or Alto Vista Chapel. If you're visiting with children, they'll enjoy visiting the Butterfly Farm, the Donkey Sanctuary and the Ostrich Farm.

Caribbean Cruises to The Bahamas

With 700 islands and some of the clearest water in the world, a Bahamian cruise offers visitors a wide variety of vacation options. If you're planning a Bahamian cruise, you'll need to first decide which of the many ports you want to sail into. Visitors can choose from Nassau and Paradise Island, Grand Bahama Island, Great Stirrup Cay, Castaway Cay, Half Moon Cay, Princess Cays and Coco Cay. Each of the different islands offer different amenities and options, but visitors are guaranteed to find miles upon miles of white sandy beaches.

Caribbean Cruises to Jamaica

Jamaica is one of the most famous cruise destinations. Visitors can choose from a number of different ports, but some of the most famous are Falmouth, Montego Bay, Ocho Rios and Port Antonio. While each port boasts its own unique cities and activities, Falmouth was recently named as the Port of the Year for 2011. Visitors to Falmouth can explore a local craft market at the Albert George Shopping and Historical Centre or visit the rum museum. Falmouth is a fairly new port, but it's one that steeped in history.

Caribbean Cruises to The Cayman Islands

With so many different ports, cruises in the Cayman Islands are other popular options. The main island, Grand Cayman, offers four different cruise ports. George Town offers plenty of historic sites for visitors, including the Public Library, Elmslie Memorial Church, the National Museum, the Town Clock and more. Areas on the eastern part of the island are less crowded and visitors can see the more natural parts of the island, such as the Mastic Reserve and Trail, the Wreck of the Ten Sails and the Blue Iguana Recovery Programme.

These are only some of the places cruises can take visitors. Many people research cruise destinations for months before boarding one of the ships, so if these destinations aren't for you, there are a number of others to choose from.