SAN JUAN

There is no place quite like a tropical volcanic island, and no island in the Caribbean quite like Puerto Rico. The geography of the island is very unusual, as it encompasses distinctly different kinds of topography and microclimates in a relatively small area, and with over 500 years of fascinating history, needless to say there is an adventure awaiting you in San Juan. Also known as the Caribbean capital of nightlife and entertainment, where you can indulge in bar hopping, fine dining, Vegas-style gaming or anything in between. From museums to monuments, historic forts to flamenco shows, there are sightseeing tours and adventures that will entice you to go ashore and explore the moment the ships docks. It is an island teeming with beauty and vitality. Some of it is Spanish, some Indian, some African and some… something else. But somehow it all blends together into a culture that you will find fascinating and one-of-kind.

NEVIS

There's something about this small, sombrero-shaped island that grabs you. The charm and tranquility takes you back to a time when things were simpler, when life was more peaceful, when stress was just a word, not a way of life. Just listen to the monkeys chattering in the trees, the doves cooing in the distance. There is excellent snorkeling just offshore and scuba diving around wrecks and natural reefs. For those more interested in man-made exploration, try your hand at archaeology, or exploring the ruins of old sugar plantations, a lime kiln, or Amerindian sites. These are the rainforests, reefs, and ruins of Nevis, a fascinating destination for people who enjoy the natural side of the tropics. This 36-square-mile island lies near the top of the Lesser Antilles archipelago, about 200 miles south of Puerto Rico, and just west of Antigua. This island jewel is approximately 7 miles long and 5 miles wide, with natural vegetation that is un-paralleled. Green and serene, Nevis is truly one of the remaining un-spoilt places and proudly carries the name, "Queen of the Caribees." From the top of the 3,232-foot Nevis Peak to the depths of the clear waters offshore, there is a world of flora and fauna to be explored. In the hills, the comical green vervet monkeys chatter and scamper; in the sea, the whales cruise by. Stroll around and see the architecture of eras gone by: churches, windmills, and refurbished Great Houses. Its 10,000 residents are friendly and helpful, ready to make new friends and welcome back regular visitors. The genuine charm and hospitality radiate into the unspoken, "Welcome," "Be my guest," and "Do come again." Nevis is special, a place that will seduce you, and tug at your heart strings after you leave.

ST. BARTH'S

Take one beach-fringed volcanic island, sweltering in the tropical sun for several million years. Add a handful of French maritime adventurers in search of a new and better life. Simmer for four hundred years. Turn up the heat, and add luxurious villas, elegant small hotels, and world class French restaurants. Baste with equal amounts of sophisticated relaxation and rustic charm - this is the perfect recipe for nonchalance, up-scale and exquisite port of call that St. Barths is.

HALF MOON CAY

The highest-rated port of call on Holland America's Caribbean itineraries, Half Moon Cay is located on 55-acres of the 2,400-acre Little San Salvador Island, an international bird sanctuary in the Bahamas (only two percent of the island is developed). Rated as "Best Private Island" by Porthole Cruise Magazine for the past four years, Half Moon Cay now offers several new and exciting activities from which to choose. You can go Horse back riding by land or sea, swim with the stingrays, enjoy your own private beachfront cabana, feast on a delicious barbeque or simply swim, snorkel and relax in the warm waters of the Caribbean – the perfect way to finish your cruise.