The beaches, water and tropical breezes are ties that bind almost every Caribbean cruise destination. But when it comes to some serious distinction, the Western Caribbean is known for its adventurous destinations, ancient influences and Latin styling.

Cruises to the Caribbean are perhaps some of the most popular in the world. Offering everything a vacationer would want and more, the islands that dot the Caribbean are vacationers' paradise on earth. The Western Caribbean is a favorite for those who enjoy diving and snorkeling. Known for its archaeological finds, this region was heavily influenced by the Mayan culture hundreds of years ago and the memory of this most impressive ancient civilization is still strong.

With its year-round balmy weather, the Western Caribbean is a popular destination no matter the time of year. The only caution is Hurricane Season, which can really kick things up. This runs annually between June 1 to Nov. 30, but storms can, and sometimes do, stir things up outside that time window.

The big draws in the Western Caribbean include such stops as Belize, Cozumel, Grand Cayman Island and Costa Maya. Although these are some of the main stops, there are more, plenty more, for cruise lovers to see and explore. One of the big distinguishing features of cruises to this part of the Caribbean over Eastern and Southern is the strong Mayan influence felt in the region and is a Latin flavor as well. But don't be surprised to see, hear and taste other influences such as British and French.

When visiting the Western Caribbean, some of the favorite ports of call for cruisers include Belize City, Cozumel and the Cayman Islands' Grand Cayman.

In Belize City, visitors who are brave enough can snorkel Shark Alley where they are more than likely to see stingrays and nurse sharks, among other water-loving creatures. Cozumel is the big Mayan draw with its walled city of Tulum. This is considered a do-not-miss on a Western Caribbean cruise. The Caymans operate on a slightly different pace and here visitors will feel a British influence. This island stop is famed for its historical sights and of course its snorkeling, swimming and diving.

Depending on the cruise taken, the Mayan city of Chitzen Itza is a possible side trip, as well. This famed city is home to some of the most impressive pyramids in this hemisphere and gives a strong indication of what life was like in this ancient civilization.

No matter the destination in the Western Caribbean, visitors who travel aboard cruise lines will find the ship's crews do what it takes to ensure passengers get to see the biggest highlights of the area. From off board excursions to visit Mayan ruins to days available to spend snorkeling or fishing, the lures of the Caribbean are strong for those who want to do little more than kick back and relax. But, of course, kicking back and relaxing is certainly not frowned upon. The region is famous for its tropical and idyllic settings just right for unwinding while enjoying warm oceanic breezes.

Perhaps one of the most noted destinations in the Western Caribbean, Jamaica has taken on a life of its own. This island nation is home to some of the richest history, plushest beaches and beautiful terrain found in the Caribbean.

Discovered by Europeans with Columbus' 1494 voyage, Jamaica's reputation was firmly ensconced in that single trip. The world traveler declared the island the most beautiful he had ever beheld. With that landing came five centuries of European control of the island, once home to only native peoples.

Modern day travelers and those who make their way to Jamaica via one of the many cruise lines that make ports of call in the country's big-name cities will find an island rich in a heritage that includes Spanish, native and British influences.

British rule of the island began in the 1650s and by the 18th century the island was a major part of the British colonies. It was responsible for producing most of the world's sugar and more. Later such crops as bananas and coffee became popular to grow on the island's rich lands.

Today, although the country still bears strong ties to its past, Jamaica is a free nation. Its independence from British rule came in 1962 and the island that once was known for its coffee, bananas and sugar became also known for its incredible tourist potential.

One of the favorite ports of call for those taking cruises to Jamaica is Montego Bay. Fabled for its silvery beaches, this city is home to the Bob Marley Theater and island music like no other. Here visitors can do such things at take a safari through a rainforest region, explore Bob Marley's roots, go snorkeling and diving and more.

Bird watchers revel in Jamaica's many offerings, as well. On this island alone visitors will find more than 252 different species of birds, including the streamer-tailed hummingbird.

For those who want to stretch their legs a little, Montego Bay is home to some impressive architecture and a rich historical district. Walking tours include such high points as the Falmouth estate, which is now a museum, and many Spanish influenced homes.

The more adventurous can enjoy snorkeling and dive tours of the bay's water, water skiing and more. Plus there's plenty of opportunities to check out beaches, go biking, horseback riding, golfing and more. Visitors with an eye for incredible beauty can even check out tropical waterfalls and more.

With such ports of call as Montego Bay, Kingston and Ocho Rios, Jamaica is a favorite for cruise travelers the world over. Its rich history and welcoming populace couple with the beautiful turquoise waters and warm island breezes to make this nation one that knows how to make travelers feel right at home.

One of the best things about taking a Caribbean cruise is the fact there's really no time of year that's bad to go. With typically balmy, tropical weather any time of the year, this region is home to some of the world's most famous cruise destinations.

With a sprinkling of islands both big and small, some of the major draws of the Caribbean include Antigua, Barbados, St. Kitts, Aruba and more. Plus, there are the rich Mayan influences in the Western Caribbean, the warm tropical breezes and the storied turquoise waters.

Cruising the Caribbean is ideal year-round, but those who choose to go between June 1 and November 30 need to keep their eyes peeled to weather reports. The Caribbean is susceptible to the threats posed by Hurricane Season each year, but this in and of itself is no reason to stay clear of booking trips during this timeframe.

Cruises are especially great ways to navigate the Caribbean during the peak of Hurricane Season, since the cruise lines will do all they can to ensure the safety of their passengers and their ships if danger appears.

Hurricanes, unlike other storms, are trackable and they're relatively easy for big ships, like cruise lines, to avoid completely. With more than enough notice, cruise ships make sure their guests and their ships are well out of harm's way if something does happen.

Unlike those who fly into the Caribbean and who might get grounded if a storm's coming, cruise ship passengers can be assured their floating hotel will make a wide berth for a storm, helping those onboard avoid waylays and even being stuck in the region should a storm strike.

Although it's more than possible for a hurricane to come through the Caribbean and put a dent in vacation plans, this region is fairly safe to visit during the season. There are some things passengers should know about hurricanes and traveling during their season, however:
* Hurricane season is not the peak for Caribbean travel. Since some are scared away by storms that may never form, the prices during this time can be more than reasonable. This is great for those who want to see the islands without having to pay full price.
* Destinations can get shuffled. Since storms can and do strike from time to time, those traveling during the season may find their plans can get altered if a storm strikes, but the cruise ships and their crews will do all that's possible to ensure guests still have the time of their lives.
* If something does happen while on a cruise, it's imperative for guests to pay heed to captain's instructions. If a destination is skipped due to an impending storm, it's for the safety of passengers, not to rain on anyone's parade. Listen to instructions and follow them carefully.

Cruising the Caribbean is generally an activity that can take place year-round with great results. There are some major cost-savings advantages to going during hurricane season, but guests should be mindful of possible changes in plans and be willing to be flexible for safety's sake.

One of the best things about taking a Caribbean cruise is the fact there's really no time of year that's bad to go. With typically balmy, tropical weather any time of the year, this region is home to some of the world's most famous cruise destinations.

With a sprinkling of islands both big and small, some of the major draws of the Caribbean include Antigua, Barbados, St. Kitts, Aruba and more. Plus, there are the rich Mayan influences in the Western Caribbean, the warm tropical breezes and the storied turquoise waters.

Cruising the Caribbean is ideal year-round, but those who choose to go between June 1 and November 30 need to keep their eyes peeled to weather reports. The Caribbean is susceptible to the threats posed by Hurricane Season each year, but this in and of itself is no reason to stay clear of booking trips during this timeframe.

Cruises are especially great ways to navigate the Caribbean during the peak of Hurricane Season, since the cruise lines will do all they can to ensure the safety of their passengers and their ships if danger appears.

Hurricanes, unlike other storms, are trackable and they're relatively easy for big ships, like cruise lines, to avoid completely. With more than enough notice, cruise ships make sure their guests and their ships are well out of harm's way if something does happen.

Unlike those who fly into the Caribbean and who might get grounded if a storm's coming, cruise ship passengers can be assured their floating hotel will make a wide berth for a storm, helping those onboard avoid waylays and even being stuck in the region should a storm strike.

Although it's more than possible for a hurricane to come through the Caribbean and put a dent in vacation plans, this region is fairly safe to visit during the season. There are some things passengers should know about hurricanes and traveling during their season, however:
* Hurricane season is not the peak for Caribbean travel. Since some are scared away by storms that may never form, the prices during this time can be more than reasonable. This is great for those who want to see the islands without having to pay full price.
* Destinations can get shuffled. Since storms can and do strike from time to time, those traveling during the season may find their plans can get altered if a storm strikes, but the cruise ships and their crews will do all that's possible to ensure guests still have the time of their lives.
* If something does happen while on a cruise, it's imperative for guests to pay heed to captain's instructions. If a destination is skipped due to an impending storm, it's for the safety of passengers, not to rain on anyone's parade. Listen to instructions and follow them carefully.

Cruising the Caribbean is generally an activity that can take place year-round with great results. There are some major cost-savings advantages to going during hurricane season, but guests should be mindful of possible changes in plans and be willing to be flexible for safety's sake.

Passengers onboard a Caribbean cruise can expect the unexpected. With literally dozens of island ports of call to choose from, pristine beaches and a tropical beauty that's incomparable mixed with a laid back local style, no two trips to the islands are alike.

While on the cruise itself, passengers can expect first-class treatment. Cruise lines specialize in making sure their guests have everything they could need or want right at their fingertips. From room service and fine dining to entertainment and more, there's nothing boring about the cruise part of the cruise itself. This, of course, is the point; a point most cruise lines work very hard to accentuate.

Most major cruise lines offer passengers the epitome of the old saying that the journey is half the fun by combining the best entertainment offerings on what amounts to floating paradise. The secret to a good cruise line's success often lies with how well its managed to entertain guests before, during and after arrival in the major Caribbean port of call.

Typical cruise ships provide passengers with workout rooms, extensive dining opportunities, live entertainment, movies, swimming and even sometimes the chance to do a little gambling while at sea. With events planned throughout the cruise, beautiful waters to take in and lounge chairs simply for relaxing, few "journeys" can compare to what a cruise has to offer.

What's more, passengers onboard a Caribbean cruise will soon find that unlike some other vacations, lifting a finger toward anything that might resemble work is not part of the cruise experience. Room service takes care of the cleaning, there are sitters for the kids and activities that are age-appropriate, pretty much around-the-clock dining opportunities and more.

And while it's true that getting there is half the fun, those on a Caribbean cruise do expect to take in the island lifestyle - at least for a while. Cruise ships make sure this happens. With plenty of opportunities for checking out the local beaches, shops and restaurants, along with side trip possibilities like sky diving, fishing, hiking and more, cruises make sure to leave no stone unturned when it comes to guests' comfort.

A Caribbean cruise is like nothing else going. Guests onboard a ship should expect the unexpected and prepare to be dazzled. Plus, there's paradise Caribbean style waiting at the other end of the journey with its whole host of activities to keep visitors more than entertained.