What to pack for: A Caribbean Cruise

The Caribbean is one of the most breathtaking locations on earth. With its crystal-clear waters and soft sandy beaches, it is no wonder that millions flock to the collection of islands yearly. The Caribbean is split across 7,000 islands, including the likes of the Azores, Barbados, Bermuda, the British Virgin Islands, the Cayman Islands, Cuba, the Dominican Republic, St Lucia, St Kitts, St Maarten, Tobago and more. A Caribbean cruise is a wonderful and relaxing way to explore these gems in one trip. If you’re planning a cruise and are unsure about the sort of things you should be packing, keep reading to find our recommendations and advice on the best things to pack for a Caribbean cruise.

Caribbean cruise packing list:

·       Lightweight and breathable day clothing

·       Evening attire

·       Sun protection

·       Electronics and cameras

·       Important documentation

·       Games and entertainment

Lightweight and breathable day clothing

The temperatures will vary depending on which Caribbean Island you visit. However, the Caribbean is known for its warm climes and year-round sunshine, so making sure you pack accordingly is essential.

Packing light and breathable clothing will allow you to be comfortable in the humid and warm environment of the Caribbean. Loose shirts, shorts, linen trousers and dresses are all good options, although it might be useful to know that it can often be windy on the islands due to their proximity to the coast.

Packing sensible footwear is essential. You’ll undoubtedly want to explore and experience the islands for yourself, so you’re bound to do a fair amount of walking. Therefore, it is always wise to pack a pair of comfortable trainers, so your feet are supported. You might want to bring other footwear like sandals or flip-flops for around the pool and at the beach.

Evening attire

Evening attire can be a little different to the sort of things you might wear in the day. Many of our guests choose to adopt a smart casual look in the evenings, especially for the formal evenings when gentlemen might wear a dinner jacket, although a lounge suit is quite acceptable. The ladies on these occasions have a chance to dress up and often opt for evening or cocktail dresses. 

On evenings proposed as ‘smart’, a suit or smart jacket and trousers, with or without a tie, for the men are suggested and the ladies have further opportunities to look elegant in a cocktail dress, trouser suits and stylish co-ordinates. A ‘casual’ recommendation often covers evenings spent in port or when a special event is scheduled. In these cases, the choice of dress is left entirely to you.

There is no limit on how much luggage you can take on a cruise from the UK, so you can pack an option for every occasion.

READ MORE: Ultimate guide to cruising dress code with Ambassador

Sun protection

Sun protection is a crucial part of any Caribbean cruise packing list due to the high UV levels you’ll be exposed to. Make sure you pack enough sunscreen for the duration of your trip and ensure it is a high enough factor to keep you protected for extended periods of time.

Other forms of sun protection are always a good idea, such as a sun hat, baseball cap or umbrella that you can take out on port days.

Electronics and cameras

There is a plethora of electronics that you might want to pack for your upcoming cruise, but make sure you check what items are included in your room beforehand. This will save you from packing duplicate items.

Battery packs

Battery packs are a great item to ensure you can charge your phones or electronics when out and about on the cruise ship or in port. Battery packs come in all shapes and sizes, and the smaller ones are great for popping in your handbag or rucksack if you’re off the cruise ship exploring.

Cameras

There is no better way to capture important memories of your cruise than by taking a camera with you. This could be a digital camera or even a disposable camera. Keep your phones away, enjoy the moments in front of you, and look back on these memories for years to come.

Battery-powered fan

Whether you are out and about or lying by the pool, you may want a breather from the warm temperatures now and again, so a small handheld or battery-powered fan is always a good item to pack. These are often small enough to carry on port days, too.

Important documentation

A given for any trip, whether a cruise or not, is to pack all your essential documentation. Carrying all your travel documents will allow you to avoid any delays or confusion when travelling. Below are some of the papers and items you will need to remember.

Passport

It goes without saying that the first thing you should pack is your passport. If you don't have this, you won’t be allowed on the cruise, so make sure it is in date and valid.

Boarding pass/proof of booking

It would be wise to have your proof of booking or boarding pass on hand even after you’ve boarded, whether printed or on your phone. If there is any confusion about your booking, the staff on the cruise ship may need to see this.

Travel insurance documents

If you have booked travel insurance, you should keep information on your policy to hand in case of an emergency or if you need to contact them for guidance.

Proof of medication/prescriptions

If you carry medication in your suitcase, it may be wise to have proof of your prescription in case this is questioned. Your prescriptions will also be handy if you need an emergency prescription abroad.

Important contact information

Sometimes, having significant numbers physically written down can save time in case of an emergency. Note down any important contacts, for example, family or friends at home, your travelling companion and the contact details for your doctor's surgery.

Games and entertainment

An excellent way to make friends and spend time on a cruise that may have more sea days than others is by playing games. Whether a pack of cards or a board game, getting everyone together to enjoy some fun and laughter is a great way to spend a quiet day. Games like Uno, Dobble, and Bananagrams are great compact games that don’t take up too much room in your luggage and supply endless fun.

READ MORE: Fun games to play whilst on a cruise holiday

Are you looking to head to tropical climes on a cruise in 2025? Then we're sure the Caribbean will tick all your boxes. Hopefully, this guide has given you some guidance on what you should pack for a fantastic Ambassador cruise to the Caribbean.

For more articles and travel inspiration, our blog is the place to be.