But passenger ships are more popular than ever and the cruise industry is seeing record growth rates. In fact, cruising is so popular that cruise companies are building larger more luxurious cruise ships in a bid to win the hearts and minds of the traveler.

Of the many number of cruises available the Caribbean remains one of the most popular destination spots for vacationers in the world. Comprised of hundreds of islands each with their own distinct personality a cruise to the Caribbean is a vacation experience that won't soon be forgotten.

The Caribbean is geographically divided into three regions and cruises are usually centered on one of these areas but rest assured that no matter which region you pick you will experience beautiful weather and gorgeous sandy beaches.

The Eastern Caribbean ? Get Ready To Shop

The Eastern Caribbean region is made up of a set of islands known as the Lesser Antilles that extend 600 miles along the Eastern side of the Caribbean Sea. This area is much more commercially developed than the Western and Southern Caribbean areas and as a result is more heavily visited by tourists.

Daytime temperatures in the 80s with lows at night in the 70s make it perfect for vacationers wanting to escape the frigid U.S. winters if only for a week or two. The Hurricane season runs from June through the beginning of November and the Eastern Caribbean is more prone to hurricanes as the other regions so keep that in mind.

The Bahamas are probably the most well know of the Eastern Caribbean islands but St. Maarten, St. Thomas and Puerto Rico are also very popular and sure to please.

Those cruising for the first time might want to consider an Eastern Caribbean cruise as these cruises usually offer more days at sea and the islands visited are less of a culture shock for those not used to traveling outside the country. Because of this they are also more crowded and more costly than the Western and Southern Caribbean.

Diving and snorkeling is good here just not as good as the Western and Southern Caribbean but you will find the duty-free shopping to be among the best in the world with many big name luxury retailers having stores on the islands. Plan your trip around any major luxury goods purchases you are going to make and you might save enough to pay for your vacation.

Continued in Part Two?