Alaska's Inside Passage

The Caribbean Eastern Route is the most accessible and reliable introduction to ocean cruising, despite missing the dramatic fjords of #1 or the wildlife density of #3. St. Thomas at Charlotte Amalie handles over 1.5 million cruise passengers annually, and San Juan's piers accommodate the world's largest ships. The route's 28°C average sea temperature and 80% sunny-day probability provide 40% more calm sailing days than Alaska's Inside Passage, making it ideal for first-timers. A 7-day voyage stops at 4 ports with zero missed landings—something even the Greek Islands (#2) can't guarantee due to occasional wind delays. The coral reefs of the Bahamas host 500 fish species, and snorkelers see an average of 15 per outing. Critics call it basic, but data proves it: 95% of first-time cruisers rank this route as 'excellent' for ease and relaxation.