Discover the Hidden Gems of Caribbean Geography
When planning a Caribbean vacation, it can be difficult to understand the terminology used by cruise lines and some travel agents. One example is the distinction between the Greater Antilles and the Lesser Antilles. Additionally, terms like "Leeward" and "Windward" may be unfamiliar. For that you have to know the Caribbean geography first.
To have a better understanding of where your cruise is going or where your next destination will be, it's important to have knowledge of the geography of the Caribbean. This guide will provide an overview of the terms you may encounter during your travel booking search and what they mean.
Overview of the Caribbean Geography
Caribbean Geography
The Caribbean is a region located in the Caribbean Sea, consisting of more than 7,000 islands, islets, reefs, and cays. These islands are situated southeast of the Gulf of Mexico and the North American mainland, east of Central America, and north of South America. The Caribbean Sea is a tropical sea that separates the Caribbean region from the Atlantic Ocean.
The Caribbean is often divided into three main subregions: the Greater Antilles, the Lesser Antilles, and the Lucayan Archipelago however, in cruise terminology, the three subregions are the Western Caribbean, the Eastern Caribbean, and the Southern Caribbean. Please note that depending on the cruise line or booking agency the countries under these subregions may vary slightly.
The Greater Antilles (Western Caribbean/Windward Islands)
The Greater Antilles also known as Western Caribbean or Windward Islands is located in the northern part of the Caribbean, near the coast of Central America and the Gulf of Mexico. This subregion includes the four largest islands in the Caribbean which are Cuba, Jamaica, Hispaniola (consisting of Haiti and the Dominican Republic), and Puerto Rico.
The geography of the Greater Antilles is diverse and varied. It ranges from rugged mountain ranges and lush rainforests to coastal plains and rivers. Each island in the Greater Antilles has its own unique landscape and topography that contributes to its natural beauty and makes it a popular tourist destination.
The Lesser Antilles (Eastern Caribbean/Leeward Islands)
The Lesser Antilles as known as the Eastern Caribbean or Leeward Islands is an arc-shaped chain of islands that includes Antigua and Barbuda, Saint Kitts and Nevis, Montserrat, Guadeloupe, Dominica, Martinique, Saint Lucia, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Barbados, and the Grenadines.
The Eastern Caribbean is known for its stunning beaches, turquoise clear waters, and diverse culture. Many of the islands are volcanic in origin, with rugged landscapes, lush rainforests, and beautiful beaches. The Eastern Caribbean is also a popular destination for water sports such as snorkeling, diving, and sailing.
The Southern Caribbean
Southern Caribbean
Some cruise lines will refer to the term Southern Caribbean which is known for its picturesque beaches, lush rainforests, and vibrant culture. Some of the islands that are considered part of the Southern Caribbean include Aruba, Bonaire, Curacao, Trinidad and Tobago, Grenada, Barbados, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines and Saint Lucia.
In the Southern Caribbean the weather is generally considered to be more arid compared to other Caribbean islands, with distinct dry and rainy seasons, but the weather pattern can vary from island to island. It is also a popular destination for ecotourism and adventure travel, as the region boasts a wide variety of outdoor activities such as snorkeling, scuba diving, hiking, and birdwatching.
Read More: Top Three Caribbean Destinations
Conclusion
The climate in the Caribbean is tropical, with high humidity and temperatures that remain constant throughout the year. The region is also prone to natural disasters such as hurricanes and earthquakes.
The Caribbean is home to a diverse population, with a rich cultural heritage that has been shaped by a mix of indigenous, African, Asian, and European influences. The region’s tropical climate, beautiful beaches, and rich cultural heritage make it a popular destination for tourists from around the world.
