The idea of an active cruising vacation is taken to the extreme in the Southern Caribbean Challenge.

It’s comprised of seven marathons in six countries over the span of just one week. After taking a hiatus last year because of hurricane damage in the region, the runners were on their marks once more this summer. You have the option of running in all or one of the events joining World Record holders from more than 20 counties.

You start your marathon voyage in Puerto Rico and after stopping in St. Thomas, Barbados, St. Lucia, St. Kitts, and Saint Maarten, and — if you’re not entirely exhausted — there’s another race aboard the cruise ship. You don’t have to run a marathon at each of the locations. You can sign up for distances of 5K, 10K, 1/2 and full marathon.

If you’re interested in the 2020 series you’ll have to keep a close eye on when registration opens since the there are only 30 spots available and (for some reason Amanda nor I understand) they fill up quickly. Participants get a chance to explore the islands, meet like-minded adventure-athletes, and soak in the sights and sounds of each destination. Not only that, the comfort of being on a luxury cruise ship will allow participants to relax and enjoy the evenings with family and friends.

We have no doubt that part of that luxury is the spa services to soothe your worn muscles after each run. 

Southern Caribbean Challenge June 2019 in St. Thomas (Courtesy: Bevan Springer)