Just a short jaunt from Florida’s east coast, the Bahamas’ dazzling chain of 700+ islands is celebrated for jewel-toned turquoise waters visible from space. Nestled in this tropical paradise, Freeport offers a unique gateway to the natural and cultural treasures of Grand Bahama, a popular port on Caribbean cruise vacations.
Discover Freeport by foot, bike, or a scenic drive through its vibrant neighborhoods and natural landscapes. A stroll through Port Lucaya Marketplace reveals colorful local shops, authentic Bahamian crafts, and live entertainment that captures the rhythm of island life. History buffs can visit the historic Cooper’s Castle, a hilltop estate offering sweeping views and fascinating stories of the island's past.
Nature lovers will find endless opportunities for adventure. Explore the underwater wonders of Deadman’s Reef, one of the Bahamas’ most famous snorkeling spots, or hike the lush Heritage Trail, encountering native bird species. Bike along the shoreline and stop at Garden of the Grove — a serene oasis filled with waterfalls and winding paths through tropical plants.
For a culinary treat, savor freshly prepared conch salad, grilled lobster, or snapper paired with a refreshing Bahamian cocktail.
From its peaceful beaches to its vibrant marketplaces and stunning underwater reefs, Freeport offers a distinct mix of experiences. With your Escape with Effy charter cruise, this Bahamian gem becomes more than a destination — it’s a highlight of the journey.
On the Dominican Republic’s sun-kissed northern coast, Amber Cove is a vibrant Caribbean cruise port beckoning with relaxation, adventure, and local charm. This modern destination, opened in 2015, is a highlight of any Caribbean cruise, offering a gateway to laid-back indulgence and exciting exploration.
The port is a destination in itself, with a resort-style pool, upscale cabanas, and variety of dining and shopping. Don’t miss the Sky Bar, perched atop a granite hill, for panoramic views of the cove. Snap a post at the iconic Amber Cove signs or unwind in the Aqua Zone with a cocktail in hand — there’s plenty to enjoy without even leaving the port. Nearby, walking paths and scenic viewpoints showcase the area’s natural beauty.
Just minutes from Amber Cove is Puerto Plata, a historic city rich with culture and colonial charm — it’s the Dominican’s oldest European settlement, established in the 1490s. Wander downtown or stroll the Malecon, a three-mile long boardwalk overlooking the ocean. Explore colonial landmarks or visit the Amber Museum, where scenes from Jurassic Park were filmed. Don’t miss treasures like Dominican rum, chocolate, and larimar, a rare form of blue pectolite.
For thrill-seekers, Amber Cove has one of the Caribbean’s largest shore excursion lineups from rainforest zip-lining and helicopter tours to ATVs, kayaks, and paddleboards.
More than just a port — Amber Cove is a Dominican gem designed for discovery on your Escape with Effy Caribbean charter cruise.
Bienvenidos! This is where Latin flair meets coastal cool. Start with a stroll through Bayside Marketplace, a waterfront tourist spot buzzing with open-air cafés, boutiques, and boats gliding across Biscayne Bay. Hop on a water taxi for a narrated tour with shimmering skyline views. The home of the Miami Heat is a few blocks north, along with Pérez Art Museum Miami, where a sculpture garden overlooks the bayfront, complete with alfresco dining and stylish swinging chairs.
Take a taxi or ride-share into Little Havana, where Calle Ocho brims with cigar rollers at work, murals of Cuban legends, and domino tiles clacking in Máximo Gómez Park. A cortado at a ventanita keeps you energized, fueling your walk past craft galleries and bakeries, where the aroma of fresh guava pastries lingers in the air.
Head over to Wynwood to feed your artsy side, where warehouses become canvases for colorful street art. Wynwood Walls showcases ever-changing murals in a vibrant open-air museum that turns every corner into a photo stop.
Food takes center stage across the city. Don’t miss stone crab claws when in season — try Garcia’s on the Miami River or Joe’s on South Beach — savor fresh ceviche accented with lime and dig into a classic Cuban sandwich pressed to perfection. When the sun drops, Miami keeps its rhythm with salsa dancing, rooftop lounges, and DJ clubs packed with A-listers.
Sand meets city on South Beach, where pastel-colored lifeguards define the beach vibe and Ocean Drive hums with Art Deco charm. Take a short walk through the district in the glow of neon lights on façades preserved from the 1930s.
With art at every turn, flavors that span continents, and a shoreline built for long days and longer nights, Miami greets your Escape with Effy charter cruise with an unmistakable mix of culture and fun.
Seabourn
