I enjoyed my honeymoon on a Windjammer Barefoot Cruise so much, I’m already planning to return on a similar cruise of the Caribbean for my 10th anniversary!

My husband and I chose a Windjammer cruise for our honeymoon namely because we liked the idea of visiting several Caribbean islands, but we didn’t want to be one of thousands of people on a huge ship. We didn’t want to have to have to dress for dinner or feel like we were part of a herd of cattle when re-boarding after a shore excursion.

Windjammer’s small-capacity sailing ships (ranging from 64 to 122 berths) and informality (T-shirts, shorts, sundresses, swimsuits and sandals are all you need) appealed to us. And there’s nothing more romantic than sitting in your new spouse’s arms, on a tall ship’s teak deck with sails billowing in the breeze, watching the sun set on the horizon. Sailing is made for romantics!

Because of the small ship size, it’s easy to get to know the crew and your fellow passengers. The ship throws nightly themed parties, often involving costumes and props, which make for great “mixers."

There are no seating arrangements for the multi-course meals, which typically feature American and Caribbean foods, so you can meet different people or sit with newfound friends around the large communal tables. Drinks from the bar are not included in the price of the cruise, but they are reasonably priced.

Accommodations vary on each ship. Our “Admiral Suite” on the main deck included a double bed, private bathroom with shower and a window. It wasn’t luxurious by any means, but was certainly comfortable enough for us. If you want to splurge, some of the ships in the Windjammer fleet have honeymoon suites that offer a bit more room. Also, if you’re honeymooning, be sure to let Windjammer know when you book, and you’ll receive complimentary T-shirts, champagne and a gift basket.

Specific itineraries for each ship change yearly, but they typically include stops in the Eastern Caribbean, Western Caribbean and British Virgin Islands. Our trip on the S/V Legacy started and ended in Puerto Rico, and our ports of call included the delightful small islands of Jost Van Dyke, Culebra, Vieques and Virgin Gorda, as well as the more cosmopolitan St. Thomas and St. John’s. We loved the snorkeling, kayaking and hiking excursions, but also appreciated the generous amounts of time we had to explore the islands at our own pace, just the two of us. And isn’t that what a honeymoon is all about?