Best Caribbean Golf Cruises

A Caribbean golf cruise combines world-class golf with the luxury of a cruise vacation. Imagine teeing off on tropical courses and returning to a ship that takes you to the next island paradise. Whether you're a seasoned golfer or a casual player, a golf cruise offers convenience, variety, and unforgettable experiences. In this article, we explore the best Caribbean golf cruises, what to consider before booking, and how to make the most of your trip.

Why Choose a Caribbean Golf Cruise?

A Caribbean golf cruise lets you play multiple courses without the hassle of booking separate hotels and flights. Cruise lines like Royal Caribbean offer dedicated golf programs, including onboard golf simulators, pro clinics, and organized excursions to top-rated courses. The Caribbean is home to some of the most scenic golf destinations, from Bermuda grass fairways in the Bahamas to challenging oceanfront links in Curacao. For golfers, this means variety: each port offers a different course, climate, and level of difficulty.

Moreover, a cruise is ideal for groups or families where not everyone golfs. While you’re on the course, others can enjoy the ship’s amenities, shore excursions, or simply relax on the beach. The all-inclusive nature of many cruises also simplifies budgeting, though golf packages are usually additional.

What to Consider Before Booking a Caribbean Golf Cruise

Before you book a Caribbean golf cruise, evaluate these key factors to ensure the trip matches your expectations.

Cruise Line and Golf Program Not all cruise lines offer robust golf experiences. Royal Caribbean, for example, is known for its “Royal Caribbean Golf Cruises” that include partnerships with pro golfers, onboard putting greens, and shore-side tee times at prestigious courses. Other lines like Carnival, Norwegian, and Princess also offer golf excursions but with less specialization. Research each line’s golf amenities, including simulator quality, instructor availability, and the number of golf excursions offered.

Course Selection and Quality Check which courses are available in the ports of call. Look for well-known courses like the famous Teeth of the Dog in the Dominican Republic or the challenging links at the Royal Saint Kitts Golf Club. For a truly unique experience, consider a cruise that stops in Curacao, where you can play golf in Curacao Caribbean at courses like the Blue Bay Golf Course or the Curacao Golf Club. Verify the course conditions, green fees included, and whether equipment rentals are available.

Package Inclusions and Costs Golf cruises often sell golf packages separately, including green fees, transportation, and sometimes a caddy. Compare the cost of the package versus booking independently. Some cruise lines offer “golf at sea” packages that include unlimited simulator use and select shore excursions. Also, consider whether you need to bring your own clubs or if rentals are available (and at what cost). Remember that cruise fares typically cover only the sailing, meals, and basic entertainment.

Itinerary and Time in Port Golf rounds can take 4-5 hours, so ensure the ship’s port time is sufficient. Some cruises stay in port for 8-10 hours, which is ideal for a round plus lunch. Shorter stops may force you into early tee times or incomplete rounds. Look for itineraries with overnight stays or late departures if you want a full golf experience without rushing.

Weather and Season The Caribbean has a high season (December to April) with lower humidity and less rain. Hurricane season runs June to November, but you may find discounts. For golf, early morning tee times often offer cooler temperatures and less wind.

Top Caribbean Destinations for Golf Cruises

While many islands offer excellent golf, here are a few standout destinations that frequently appear on golf cruise itineraries.

• —Bahamas: Home to the famous Albany Resort course and the Royal Blue at Baha Mar. The clear waters and gentle breezes make for a pleasant round.
• —Dominican Republic: Punta Cana and La Romana feature world-class courses like Teeth of the Dog and Punta Espada, designed by Pete Dye.
• —Curacao: For a less crowded experience, golf in Curacao Caribbean offers two notable courses: the par-72 Blue Bay Golf Course with ocean views and the historic Curacao Golf Club. The island’s dry climate and unique desert-like landscapes provide a distinct golfing atmosphere.
• —Jamaica: The Tryall Club and Half Moon Golf Course are top picks, with lush hillsides and ocean backdrops.
• —Puerto Rico: The TPC Dorado Beach and the Wyndham Grand Rio Mar courses are frequently included in cruise packages.

How to Find the Best Deals on Caribbean Golf Cruises

To secure the best value, start by searching for “caribbean golf cruise” deals on major cruise line websites or travel aggregators. Consider booking during wave season (January to March) when cruise lines offer promotions like free upgrades, onboard credits, or discounted deposits. Also, check if the cruise line offers a “golf package” discount when booked in advance. Some travel agents specialize in golf cruises and may have access to group rates or exclusive perks.

Keep in mind that the best deals often come with trade-offs: older ships may have lower prices but limited golf amenities, while newer ships with full golf simulators cost more. Balance your budget with your desire for onboard golf features.

FAQ

Are clubs included in Caribbean golf cruise packages? Most golf cruise packages include green fees and transportation but not club rentals. You can bring your own clubs (the ship will store them in your cabin or a designated area) or rent clubs at the course. Rentals typically cost extra, so check beforehand.

Which cruise line is best for golfers? Royal Caribbean is widely recognized for its golf program, offering partnerships with pros, onboard simulators, and organized golf excursions. However, other lines like Celebrity and Norwegian also provide good options depending on the itinerary.

Can I play golf on every Caribbean cruise? Not automatically. You need to choose a cruise that includes golf excursions or book independently at ports. Many cruises do pre-arrange tee times, but you must opt into the golf package. Confirm availability before booking.

Choosing the right Caribbean golf cruise requires matching your golf skill level and expectations with the cruise line’s offerings. Focus on itineraries that give you enough time to enjoy both the course and the ship. Whether you aim for a Royal Caribbean golf cruise or a more relaxed line, the Caribbean offers some of the most beautiful fairways on earth.