✈️ Switching Gears This Week…
I’ve been sharing lots of highlights from my recent Sandals trip these past few weeks 🏝️—and don’t worry, there’s more to come… But this week, I wanted to switch it up and spotlight something a little different: cruising 🚢.
Specifically, I’m sharing some exciting new cruise options for Canadians who’d prefer to skip U.S. ports altogether. From Puerto Plata to Barbados to right here at home in Montreal, there are some fantastic itineraries you may not have even considered yet 👀🇨🇦
One of the biggest challenges we travel advisors have faced lately is the decline in U.S. travel—especially cruises. With new tariffs in place, many Canadians are now refusing to sail out of Miami or other U.S. ports.
And it’s not just us advisors who’ve had to adapt—cruise lines themselves have noticed the impact. Canadians represent a huge part of their revenue, so the industry had to pivot quickly to make sure they didn’t lose their loyal Canadian cruisers. The good news? That means brand-new cruise options departing from places closer to home or outside of the U.S. altogether.
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🏝️ Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic
Several cruise ships are now sailing right out of Puerto Plata….a fantastic choice for Canadian travelers looking for Caribbean sunshine without connecting through the U.S.
While I’ve only stayed at resorts in the DR, I can tell you the Puerto Plata area is vibrant and full of life. You’re close to Samana and Sosua, where you’ll find beautiful beaches, bustling nightlife, and plenty of local restaurants serving authentic Dominican cuisine. Whether you’re craving fresh seafood, cocktails with a view, or lively music, this area has you covered.
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🌺 Barbados – My Top Pick!
If you ask me, Barbados is a dream departure port. This island is alive with energy and charm:
• World-class restaurants & nightlife – Live music spills into the streets, and there’s no shortage of incredible dining.
• Famous Oistins Fish Fry – Every Friday night, locals and visitors gather for food, music, and dancing.
• Pebble Beach mornings – If you’re an early riser, catch the unforgettable sight of racehorses bathing and playing in the sea before training.
From Barbados, you can cruise the Caribbean or even set sail for South America. For me, this would be my first choice every time because I love everything about Barbados.
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🍁 Closer to Home: Montreal Departures
If you’d rather skip flying altogether, a few smaller cruise ships are now sailing right out of Montreal. These itineraries are a fantastic way to explore Canada and beyond:
• Dock in Quebec City, St. John’s, and Prince Edward Island.
• Visit St. Pierre and Miquelon, a small French island just off Canada’s coast. (Yes—a piece of France right here at home! With its French bakeries, cafés, and cobblestone streets, it feels like stepping into Europe without the long flight.)
These cruises are perfect if you’re interested in an East North Atlantic experience with a touch of European flair.
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✨ The Best Part
Interestingly, choosing these alternative departure ports often costs about the same, and sometimes even less than sailing out of Miami.
So, if you’re one of those Canadians who loves cruising but prefers to avoid U.S. ports, you now have amazing options in the Caribbean, South America, and even right here in Canada.
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👉 Ready to explore these new cruise options? I’d love to help you find the perfect ship and itinerary. Let’s start planning your next adventure—no Miami required.
