u/Tikala

Hey cruising friends! I would love to hear your opinions and experiences!

I'm deciding between 3 cruises. Considering the ships and the ports which would you choose? Price is surprisingly similar so I'm not counting that. All are 7 day. Travelling with kids. We would like maybe one beach day but want to include hiking, cool experiences like cave swimming, historical sites like forts, scenic tours with many stops, catamaran trips etc.

1. Costa Smeralda canary islands (Tenerife, Las Palmas, arrecife, Madeira, Puerta Ventura)

Pros: all new ports to me Cons: 8 hour flight, lower rated ship

2. Marella Discovery Southern Caribbean: La Romana, Aruba, Curacao, Bonaire

Pros: all new ports to me, all-inclusive package with direct flights and transfers included Cons: not sure if we will like the ABC islands.

3. Costa Fascinosa Southern Caribbean: Tortola, Dominican Republic, st Kitts, St Lucia, Guadeloupe

Pros: 3 New-to-me ports, LOVE St Kitts and St Lucia. Itinerary is the most appealing

Cons: low rated cruise ship and not sure if we will enjoy Costa

I have sailed 12 times in the past on Carnival, NCL and Celebrity so that's my frame of reference.

I'm very interested in your opinions on these 3 ships along with the itineraries if you have experience with any of the ships or ports :)