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If there are two things in life that I enjoy doing, it’s basking in warm sunshine and sipping on cocktails. Sadly, I don’t get to do much of the former in the UK, which is why I’m also a big fan of Caribbean cruise holidays. Taking such getaways not only gives me the chance to get an amazing tan, but also offers ample opportunity to taste delicious cocktails. Perhaps unsurprisingly, I think this is one kind of holiday that everyone should go on, even if it’s only once!
Even though I’m sure you’re already aware that Caribbean islands such as Jamaica, Barbados and St Lucia are blessed with fantastic year-round weather, you might be struggling with where exactly to go. Luckily, embarking on a cruise of the region removes much of this problem as you’ll be transported through several of the area’s most popular places on a pre-planned itinerary. You can find out more about what Caribbean cruises are available here, but I’m now going to spend some time concentrating on a few of the islands that have produced world-famous Caribbean cocktails.
Puerto Rico
With Puerto Rico containing over 300 beaches spanning more than 270 miles and having one of the largest natural harbours in the Caribbean, I don’t think it’s too hard to see its appeal as a sunshine holiday destination.
If you really want to make the most of the great weather, I suggest you sip on a few of the locally-made cocktails while relaxing on a beach. San Juan cooler is among the creations to have originated from the island that I recommend. This contains white rum, dry vermouth and pineapple juice, with a glass or two sure to get you into the party mood.
Alternatively, you could try a pina colada. This is perhaps one of the most famous cocktails in the entire world and contains pineapple juice, white rum and cream of coconut, which is served in a tumbler glass and garnished with maraschino cherry and pineapple.
As you can see, rum is a key ingredient in both these cocktails and you can find out more about how the alcoholic beverage is made by visiting the Bacardi factory. Often referred to as ‘the cathedral of rum’, this is the biggest distillery in the entire world.
Antigua
Go on a cruise that calls in at Antigua and you’ll be on a island where the average daytime temperature hovers between 27 and 31 degrees C. Don’t worry if this is a little too hot for you, as the delicious local Caribbean cocktails will help you to cool down.
Among these is Summer Gold, where dark rum, peach brandy, lime juice and caster sugar are mixed before being strained and poured into a flute glass. The elegant drink is topped with champagne and gold leaf and it’s perfect for sipping while relaxing on a golden beach.
Barbados
My final recommendation for Caribbean cocktails is Barbados. As this island is widely viewed to be the birthplace of rum and is home to the Mount Gay distillery – the world’s oldest production plant for the drink – I’m confident you’ll have the chance to try some fantastic beverages.
For a true taste of the Caribbean, try Bajan punch. This features lime juice, fruit syrup, chipped ice, water and – of course – rum, and is simply heavenly to drink whether you’re on the beach or relaxing in one of the country’s bars.
You can learn more about how rum is made by taking a tour of one the major distilleries, such as Foursquare or Mount Gay, before stepping back on your cruise ship and continuing your voyage.
If you’re considering taking a Caribbean cruise let us know which parts of the region you want to visit and which cocktails you’d like to try by posting a comment below.
