Eastern or Western Caribbean?

We are looking to book a week-long cruise on Royal Caribbean's Freedom of the Seas in April. We were wondering which destination we should go to, the Eastern or Western Caribbean? The Eastern Caribbean ports are: Cococay, Bahamas (RCCL's private island), Charlotte Amalie, St. Thomas, and Phillipsburg, St. Marteen. The Western Caribbean ports are: Labadee, Haiti (RCCL's other private island), Falmouth, Jamaica (we would not get off the boat here), Georgetown, Grand Cayman, and Cozumel, Mexico. Thank you in advance!Eastern or Western Caribbean?
My suggestion would be Western Caribbean. It offers more variety of options, like the option of touring Mayan ruins. Also, its cheaper to get to beaches in places like Grand Cayman and Cozumel vs St Thomas and St Maarten. A taxi to the beach in Grand Cayman is only $4. US per person each way. Its much more in St Thomas and St Maarten. If you go to Jamaica you can get off the ship but its highly recommended that you go on a ship's tour. Its really not safe to go off on your own there. Finally, Labadee Haite, RC's private island is much better than CocoCay. Bigger, better and more to do.
I went on the same Western Caribbean cruise on Freedom of Seas last April. I had an absolutely amazing time! I have to say, initially I did not want to get off at Jamaica, but in the end it was one of my favorite stops! Haiti was beautiful and full of fun, Grand Cayman was very nice, and Cozumel is what you would expect. Definitely this is one not to miss! But if you want some other opinions, I recommend visiting http://www.CruisersConnect.com. Their cruise lines forums are unmatched in my opinion and they offer the best answers to my questions and give the best advice. Hope this helps and have a great cruiseEastern or Western Caribbean?
Which is better for you really depends upon your personal tastes. The Eastern itinerary is somewhat more developed and European/US-influenced. The Western is more South American-influenced.



Freedom of the Seas is a very nice ship. My photo tour of her is at - - http://www.beyondships.com/FOStour.html
There both great, nut the cruise to the eastern caribbean will have a little rougher seas because you are ACTUALLY sailing in the Atlantic Ocean, not the Caribbean Sea. Its not very rough, but you will feel a slight swaying.
If you enjoy shopping, by all means go on the Eastern cruise. If you are looking more for interesting shore excursions, go on the Western cruise. Either will be good, though!
eastern. more beautiful.

western is ok, but just ok
western. ive been to both. eastern sucks.