shore excursions caribbean cruise

Best Caribbean shore excursions

Whether your ideal cruise vacation involves lounging, exploring or learning something new, there's a Caribbean shore excursion designed to help you find your bliss. In a year-round destination like the Caribbean, most of the fun revolves around sun, sand and sea. History, culture and food also top the lists of excursions available in the region.

You may be surprised by how many Caribbean islands have interesting geological features not found anywhere else in the world. Shore excursions offer plenty of adventurous ways to explore these areas, from caves to volcanoes.

In our quest for the best Caribbean shore excursions, our goal was not to find the most popular tours, but to find the experiences and attractions that make a destination stand out. Let's jump in with a look at our favorite tours.

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Prices may vary among third-party sellers, and from cruise line to cruise line. To account for that, we are using the following price key to help you get an idea of the costs to expect for each tour.

• $ = $0-$50.
• $$ = $51-$99.
• $$$ = $100-$199.
• $$$$ = $200-$499.
• $$$$$ = $500 and up.

Best Eastern Caribbean shore excursions

Virgin gorda and the baths, tortola.

You'll have the opportunity to visit many gorgeous beaches in the Caribbean, but The Baths is about as unique as they come in terms of pure scenic beauty. The beach features giant boulders and stone formations that create hidden pocket beaches and spots where the sand and water rush in and out. It's part of the National Parks Trust of the Virgin Islands. To get there, you'll take a 45-minute boat ride from Tortola to nearby Virgin Gorda.

• 4 1/2 hours, challenging, $$$.

Related: Caribbean cruise guide: Best itineraries, planning tips and things to do

Bioluminescent Kayak Adventure, Puerto Rico

This excursion out of San Juan starts at dusk and finishes well after dark. You'll travel by van to the eastern edge of the island to a beach near a bioluminescent bay. You'll get brief kayaking instructions, life vests and lights before setting off through the mangroves and into a small, sheltered bay. Every stroke of your oars sets off sparks of light in the water as you stir the tiny glowing organisms.

Even with availability limited to cruises that stay in port overnight in San Juan or pre- or post-cruise stays, this excursion made our list because it is simply not something you can do in very many places in the world. Kayaking in the mangroves in the dark was one of the coolest things I've ever done, and the bioluminescence was an incredible extra bonus.

• Six hours, moderate, $$$.

America's Cup 12-Meter Regatta, St. Maarten

Are you up for a yacht race? You don't need any experience sailing to participate. You can simply go along for the ride, or with some instruction, help sail the boat as you race to the finish. It's possible to hop on a sailboat and cruise around sipping fruity drinks on any island in the Caribbean. What you cannot do everywhere is help sail the boat or participate in a race. St. Maarten is known for sailing -- why not join the fun?

• 2 1/2 hours, challenging, $$$.

National Park Snorkeling Excursion to St. John, St. Thomas

This excursion simplifies the complicated process of getting from the cruise pier on St. Thomas to the island of St. John, home of Virgin Islands National Park. You'll get to see a bit of St. Thomas on the way to the boat dock, then enjoy a beautiful boat ride before your snorkeling begins. This is the spot for some of the best snorkeling in the Caribbean because the park encompasses over 18,000 acres of submerged land that include 45 species of hard coral, 400 species of reef-associated fish and 17 documented species of whales and dolphins.

• 3 1/2 hours, easy to moderate, $$.

Related: Best Caribbean cruise tips to help you make the most of your time aboard and ashore

Monserrat Volcano Flightseeing, Antigua

Helicopter flightseeing is a popular shore excursion in other destinations, but it's not something you'll find in most of the Caribbean. This flight offers the opportunity to see a still-active volcano from the air, as well as experience the beauty of the islands from a unique perspective. There's also the possibility of seeing sea life like whales, dolphins and turtles from the air as you fly between the islands.

• Two hours, easy, $$$$$.

Best Western Caribbean shore excursions

Blue hole and konoko falls, jamaica.

Waterfall excursions are a big deal in Jamaica, with multiple excursions featuring the often overcrowded Dunn's River Falls. This tour from Ocho Rios takes you off the beaten path to two slightly less crowded sets of falls. Blue Hole is an idyllic waterfall-fed swimming hole, where the more daring can jump from heights into the pool below. Konoko Falls is located within a botanical garden featuring parrots, crocodiles and tropical birds found on the island. Here, you can climb to the top of the falls for a better look and enjoy a swim in natural pools.

• 4 1/2 hours, moderate, $$$.

Flavors of Jamaica

Jerk chicken is one of the best-known dishes of the Caribbean. Finding an excursion that allows you to experience it firsthand with a cooking class that teaches you about the flavors and culture of Jamaica is possible in most Jamaican ports. Most tours have you cooking your own lunch under the tutelage of a Jamaican chef. In Ocho Rios, a visit to a Jamaican estate house is a bonus.

• Three hours, easy, $$$.

Related: Eastern Caribbean vs. Western Caribbean cruises: Which itinerary will I like more?

Xocolatl — The Chocolate Experience, Roatan

You may think you know chocolate, but Mayan chocolate is a palate pleaser not well known around the globe. This excursion from Roatan, Honduras, allows you to learn and taste how chocolate fits into the Mayan culture. Part cultural education, part Honduran traditional lunch, this tour is a delightful option for Roatan cruisers eager to skip the sun and sand to experience a local meal.

• Three hours, easy, $$.

Cave Tubing, Belize

Cave tubing is the only super popular excursion that made the list. Cave tubing is famous in Belize, and we didn't want you to miss out. The drive through the jungle to get to the caves is half the fun of the excursion. Upon arrival, and after a safety briefing, you'll quickly get cool and wet floating through a tunnel of limestone. You'll want a waterproof camera for this one.

• 5 1/2 hours, moderate, $$.

Discover Scuba Diving From Shore, Grand Cayman

If you've ever thought of learning to scuba dive, a Discover Scuba course is the way to try it without taking hours of classes or investing loads of money. If you are going to try it, you might as well try it in one of the best diving locations on the planet. Plus, doing it from shore is less intimidating than trying it for the first time from a boat.

Several dive operators set up shop right at the shore within walking distance of the tender docks. You can make your own arrangements with the dive shops in advance to participate in a Discover Scuba class or sign up for a ship's excursion if there is one. You'll learn the basics of breathing through a regulator, then enjoy a guided dive around the reef just offshore. (The reason ships anchor offshore at Grand Cayman.)

Save a Sea Turtle Experience, Cozumel

Most cruisers park their sunscreened bodies on a towel in the sand at one of the many beaches in Cozumel, Mexico, but you do have other options. Why not do something as cool as participating in a sea turtle hatching?

When sea turtles hatch, not all of them make it out of the nest and into the sea. This educational excursion allows you to give a helping hand to the little guys that didn't make it out. Under the careful watch of experts, you'll dig in the sand at already-hatched nesting areas looking for hatchlings that can either be helped into the ocean or retrieved and raised in a sanctuary until they are strong enough to be released. Bonus: Tiny baby sea turtles are adorable.

• Four hours, moderate, $$$.

Best Southern Caribbean shore excursions

Whale and dolphin safari, dominica.

There is exactly one place on the planet with a known resident pod of nonmigrating sperm whales, and it's off the shores of Dominica. Come see them on a guide boat licensed to seek out both whales and dolphins; sperm whales aren't the only cetaceans that pass through this area. As with any whale watching, there aren't any guarantees, but this tour puts you in the right place for sightings.

• 3 1/2 hours, easy, $$.

Related: The best Caribbean cruises for every type of traveler

Cave Snorkeling, Bonaire

Bonaire has dozens of accessible caves, some filled with actively growing stalactites and stalagmites. Most cruise excursions will take you to at least two of them. These tours are not for the faint of heart.

Climbing into the caves is the hardest part. Some involve ladders; others are more challenging, requiring you to don a climbing harness and pick your way down a rock wall with the help of an expert guide.

Once inside the cave, snorkeling allows you to experience the incredible clarity of the water that has filtered through rock crevices to form pools. You may need to take a brief swim through a passage leading to another room in the cavern. If you're up for it, you'll return to the ship with a remarkable story. This is near the top of the list of amazing things I have done.

• Three hours, challenging, $$.

Sky Canopy and Aerial Tram, St. Lucia

Many islands offer adventure courses, but the geography of St. Lucia gives it the unique ability to offer a true treetop zip line experience among the island's mountain peaks. Start by taking a gondola ride into the mountains, ending near the first zip line tower. The lines are interspersed with rope bridges, making the whole course an adventure. Bonus: There's a cold beer waiting for you at the cantina when you finish.

• 4 1/2-5 hours, moderate, $$$.

Pilot Your Own Boat and Snorkeling Tour, Grenada

Totally different from a personal watercraft, these little two-person inflatable motorboats (picture miniature Zodiacs) are crazy fun to drive. The snorkeling part of the excursion lets you explore one of the world's best underwater sculpture parks. The excursion is fun and lets you get wet, while leaving you plenty of time to shop or explore the port.

Half-Day Land Rover Safari, Aruba

Some of Aruba's best sites require a 4x4 to get there. The Land Rover option is a bit more comfortable than the ATVs many people choose. You'll visit the famous California Lighthouse and the more picturesque side of the island. On most of these excursions, you'll end up at a beach, so wear your swimsuit and bring a towel.

4x4 Adventure and Harrison's Cave Exploration, Barbados

If you want to get out of the city and see Barbados in its rawest form, this 4x4 adventure is a superb option. You'll enjoy a forest drive, featuring scenic overlooks and a view of the pounding Atlantic Ocean (and the rock formations it creates) where it meets the Caribbean on the eastern side of Barbados before enjoying a motorized tram ride through Harrison's Cave. The active cave (meaning it has water flowing through it) has a great hall with a ceiling height of almost 50 feet.

Bottom line

Shore excursions in the Caribbean give you the opportunity to explore beyond the pier or even the city where your ship docks. Whether you crave water sports, wildlife or a taste of local food, you can easily find an activity to enhance your time ashore. When your ship stays in port all day, as they often do in the Caribbean, half-day excursions leave you plenty of time for those other cruise basics, like shopping, lounging on the beach and kicking back with a tropical drink.

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Caribbean Cruise Shore Excursions

Go ashore, connect with the caribbean.

Best Shore Excursions

Editors Picks, TravelAge West

The Caribbean is full of sights, sounds, tastes, smells and experiences that become a part of who you are. There's no stronger connection to your travels than those made by joining the destination's daily rhythm. Below are just a few Caribbean cruise shore excursions and ways you can connect to the heartbeat of the islands and come back new®.

Swim with stingrays

Swim with hundreds of stingrays in their natural habitat on Grand Cayman. Pods of stingrays, called a fever, come to the island to have and raise their young, and this Caribbean cruise excursion is one you'll never forget as you swim among these gentle creatures.

Snorkeling & diving

Dive into the blue, endless depths of the Scotts Head Marine Reserve bay on the island of Dominica, formed from the caldera of an ancient, now dormant, volcano submerged beneath the Caribbean Sea. Untouched coral reefs, dramatic underwater formations and hundreds of species of marine life await you on this Caribbean cruise excursion which is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Explore ancient ruins

Ancient Mayan ruins scatter the beautiful island of Cozumel, once thought to be the home of the moon goddess Ixchel. On this Caribbean cruise excursion you will explore temples, palaces and more, and feel yourself walking in the footsteps of the ancient peoples who once lived in those very spots.

River tubing

Relax on an inner tube in Belize as the soft current takes you through dense rainforests, ancient caves and nearly-lost Mayan ruins once used to worship many of their gods. Guides teach you the names of the local wildlife, cave structures and ancient ruins as you pass by on this relaxing Caribbean cruise excursion.

Ziplining excursions

Climb thousands of feet in an open-air tram on the island of St. Lucia until you reach the pulse-pounding zipline course. Embark on a journey that spans the rainforest canopy over one hundred feet above the forest floor and highlights the awe-inspiring vistas and unique wildlife of the island.

Scenic cruising excursions

Some of the most beautiful coastline in the world is on the island of St. Kitts, with azure waters, dramatic cliffs, coral reefs and soft white beaches. Once of the best ways to see every last postcard-perfect foot of the island is from the deck of an expertly piloted catamaran, with a stop for some reef snorkeling of course.

Outdoor adventure

Bonaire's arid interior, home to salt-drying flats for hundreds of years, make for the perfect 4x4 terrain. Take your rugged vehicle across the wild interior of the island, and see the most famous sights, mountains of salt, Caribbean flamingos and iguanas living in the mangrove forests.

Historic landmarks

From the birthplace of Alexander Hamilton on St. Kitt's sister island of Nevis to Nelson's Harbor on Antigua that sheltered the mighty British fleet during the Napoleonic Wars, the Caribbean is brimming with history and steeped in stories. Learn the shameful history of the slave trade at the Hato Caves on Curacao or tour the Dutch-inspired classical architecture in the capital of Willemstad.

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THE 10 BEST Caribbean Shore Excursions

Shore excursions in caribbean.

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1. Bahamas: Swimming Pigs, Snorkeling, Beach Break Package

2. Grand Cayman Cruise: Starfish Point, Stingray City, Coral Garden

3. Aruba UTV Tour with Natural Cave Pool and Cliff Jumping

4. San Juan Guided Snorkel Tour with Videos

5. Restless Native Catamaran Sail and Snorkel Tour

6. 3 Islands Boat Adventure: Swimming Pigs, Turtles, And Snorkeling

7. St. Lucia Land and Sea Tour

8. Bamboo Rafting and Limestone Foot Massage in Jamaica

9. Bermudaful Island Tour

10. ATV Half Day City Tour in Nassau: Guided Tour With Free Samples

11. The Baths and White Bay

12. Damajagua The 7 waterfalls excursion - Amber Cove & Taino bay

13. Half Day Luxury Catamaran Turtle Snorkel And Beach

14. All In One Island Tour of St. Martin /St. Maarten

15. Captain Bob Speed Boat/Snorkeling/Beach Tour + Lunch St Maarten

16. Small-Group Cruising and Snorkeling Catamaran Tour

17. Private All Inclusive East Coast Keys Tour and Snorkel Experience

18. Perfect Day - Swimming Pigs, Snorkel & Lunch

19. Old San Juan City Walking Tour

20. Horseback Ride Tour to Natural Pool in Arikok National Park

21. 5 Hour Luxury Catamaran Day Sail in Sint Maarten on The Phoenix

22. Cayman Crystal Caves Tour in Grand Cayman Island

23. Barbados Catamaran Turtle and Shipwreck Snorkeling Cruise

24. Half Day - Pigs, Turtles, Snorkel & Lunch

25. Key N Go -2 Hour Adventure UTV/ ATV in St. Thomas, USVI

26. Adventure Antigua - The Xtreme Circumnavigation

27. Curacao: Swimming with Sea Turtles and Grote Knip Beach Tour

28. Half-Day Adventure 4x4 ATV, Water Cave and Dominican Culture

29. Pearl Island Bahamas Snorkeling Experience and Lunch

30. For cruise passengers: Guided ATV Tour of Dutch & French St. Maarten

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Southern Caribbean Cruise Ports & Shore Excursions

All the Southern Caribbean islands are small, but there is still much to do. With year-round tropical weather, the islands are lush with rainforests and gorgeous with colors. Powdery sands bump up to turquoise waters, which makes for that true island feel with lots to do. The islands that make up the southern region are the ABC islands, Aruba, Bonaire, and Curacao, plus you'll find St. Lucia, Barbados, Grenada, and the Grenadines including Bequia and Mayreau. All of these islands host resorts to fit any budget. The cuisine is also quite varied since it tends to be a combination of indigenous tastes mixed with modern flavors. It's also a good idea to check out whether the island happens to produce its own beverage. Beers, rums, and other drinks are often created on the islands and the locals view them with pride as on the St. Lucia Island Sightseeing and Rum Tasting Excursion . There's much to see and do even if the islands are small. Watersports such as snorkeling like on our Curacao Guided Jet Ski and Snorkel Excursion , parasailing, and sport fishing abound. But there are many eco-excursions available too. Hiking, biking, traveling by dune buggy, or just catching some rays on a beach somewhere, there is always something fun to do. Combine beach with sightseeing on the Bonaire Sightseeing and Plaza Beach Resort Excursion . What to get out on the water and snorkel...then take a look at Grenada Powerboat and Underwater Sculpture Park Snorkel Excursion . Many excursions will offer exactly what the discerning traveler is looking for such as the Barbados Nature Wonders and Harrison Cave Excursion . Kick back and relax on our Aruba Occidental Grand All Inclusive Day Pass Excursion . Cruise ship passengers are typically best suited by searching out for the excursion that best meets their needs. That way there's no worrying about getting back to the ship on time or becoming lost. You can't go wrong when visiting the Southern Caribbean. Whether by cruise ship, or resort, there are miles of beautiful beaches and gorgeous rainforests just waiting for you!

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Top 10 Caribbean Shore Excursions

You could do almost anything in the Caribbean. Take a submarine to a coral field or race a yacht around an America’s Cup course. If “doing nothing” is more your dream, there’s that too. Watch waves lap the shore from the comfort of an air-conditioned cabana or unwind with drinks on a catamaran. Peruse the best excursions in the Caribbean. 

1 | Atlantis Submarine Underwater Adventure

2 | Stingray Adventure

Encounter fascinating stingrays in Half Moon Cay’s Stingray Cove. Watch these gentle creatures undulate over the ocean floor, then touch their silky wings and feed them fishy treats. Unforgettable. 

3 | Elite Champagne Catamaran Sail & Snorkel

Feel fabulous on a luxury catamaran sail along the shimmering shores of Cozumel Island. Dip into crystal water to snorkel reefs teeming with marine life. You will never want this Cozumel excursion to end. 

4 | El Yunque Rainforest Drive

Journey deep into Puerto Rico’s lush jungles on a drive suitable for all ages. Gaze at waterfalls from high mountain peaks in the only tropical rainforest in the U.S. forest system. Explore at your own pace. 

5 | Monkey Land & Dominican Flavors

Zip to Monkey Land in a safari truck, where you will become fast friends with squirrel monkeys. Then journey to a countryside home where you take part in traditional customs. Sample organic coffee and mamajuana, a medicinal drink. 

6 | Horseback Riding by Land & Sea

Canter winding trails to Half Moon Cay’s highest point. Gaze out at the surrounding islands. Then come back down to gear up for swimming. Splash into the ocean astride your trusty steed. 

7 | San Juan Highlights

Explore old and new San Juan on an air-conditioned ride to historic landmarks, including the San Cristobal and El Morro fortresses. Pop into a gorgeous beach and stroll through modern shopping districts. One of the most beloved San Juan tours. 

8 | Off-Road 4-Wheel Drive Adventure

This Aruba tour takes you off road to some of the island’s most exciting natural and historic sites. Bump along the scenic coast to the Casibari Rock Formation, the Bushiribana Gold Mill Ruins and the mini Natural Bridge. 

9 | Dominican Coffee: A Local Experience

Go into the Dominican rainforest on this Amber Cove excursion to sample the best coffee in the world. Plant coffee seeds and try roasting beans. After an interesting look at your morning mainstay, have lunch at a mountain lodge. 

10 | America’s Cup 12- Metre Regatta

Feel your heart pound as you race a yacht around an America’s Cup course. Work the boat and grind a winch with the best of them. Or sit back and enjoy the ride. 

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Cruise Etiquette: How To Get the Most Out of Shore Excursions

By Scott Laird

Cruising is an efficient means of travel, allowing you to tick off multiple bucket-list destinations in one fell swoop. However, that means you might only spend about 8 hours in each port (although more and more cruises are staying in ports overnight .)

To make the most of their limited time on the ground, many passengers book cruise shore excursions : multi-hour tours and activities organized specifically for cruise passengers at the port of call. Typical cruise line excursions have long featured bus tours—with stops for shopping and photo opps—but have recently grown to include a diverse range of activities for all types of travelers.

Active passengers can go on a fishing excursion in Alaska (and some cruise lines, like Princess and Holland America , cook and serve the fish they catch), while the culinary-minded might learn how to grind cacao beans into chocolate and pair it with wine in Cozumel. Relaxation seekers might choose a day trip to an all-inclusive resort in Roatán, Honduras where they can lay on the beach, sipping drinks from the open bar–that is, if they’d rather not go ziplining or play a round of golf, also excursions offered in Roatán.

Of course, passengers can always go off on their own–but new-to-cruisers should note that not all ports are convenient for self-exploration, particularly if the cruise terminal is far from local attractions.

There are two ways cruise passengers can book shore excursions: directly through the cruise line or with independent tour operators based at the port. Below, we break down the pros and cons of each option, when paying for a shore excursion makes sense, plus other expert tips on how cruise-goers can best organize their time on shore.

When to book your shore excursions through the cruise line

Cruise lines have entire teams dedicated to selecting a diverse array of high-quality shore excursions vetted to ensure they meet the line’s defined standards. But cruise lines are also known to add markups to their excursions—many of which tour operators also sell directly to travelers at a lower cost.

The main benefit of booking a shore excursion directly through the cruise line is convenience. Cruise line-offered excursions are charged directly to shipboard accounts, can typically be changed or canceled up to a day prior to the excursion, and offer a seamless experience: passengers are escorted off the ship when the excursion is ready to depart, and tour leaders on shore maintain contact with the shore excursion team onboard the ship to communicate any changes or delays.

Anxious travelers have good reason to fear delays on shore; passengers on private excursions who don’t board by the ship by the “all aboard” time can be left behind at the pier. But when the cruise line arranges the excursion, the ship won’t depart until the group returns. Earlier this year, staff on a NCL ship refused to board late-returning passengers, stranding them on a remote island in West Africa. The group of ten passengers who missed their ship were on a private excursion, a fact that NCL pointed to as a reason for initially refusing to reimburse any of the expenses they incurred to rejoin the ship at a later port.

Condé Nast Traveler Top Travel Specialist Tom Baker , president of CruiseCenter, says that cruise lines play on passengers’ fear of missing the ship to sell their own excursions at higher costs. Approximately 40% of Baker’s clients elect to book private excursions instead of cruise line offered excursions, he says, adding that he’s never had a passenger on those tours miss the ship.

But in some ports, booking a group excursion through the cruise line is the best option. Many big-ship cruises, especially in the Mediterranean , dock in ports that are located several hours away from popular tourist sites.For example, passengers on ships docking in Civitavecchia (for Rome ) or Le Havre (for Paris ) will find themselves a 1.5 to 3 hour drive away from their respective cities—meaning if you try to make the lengthy trip on your own, there's a higher chance of missing the cruise ship’s departure time. Even some coastal cities, like Barcelona and Marseille, have sprawling industrial ports that may appear close to the main attractions, but in reality, they are not quite walkable or easily accessible from the ship.

On a recent cruise aboard the new Sun Princess , an excursion to Florence proved to be an all-day affair. The ship was docked 2 hours away from Florence in the port town of La Spezia; our tour bus greeted us immediately upon disembarking, ready to whisk us off to Pisa and Florence . It was a fulfilling, jam-packed day, with several hours spent in the bus watching the Tuscan countryside. But, pulling off this carefully planed itinerary required precision—we arrived back to the port just before the lines were cast off for departure. Any delay would have compromised a timely return to the ship, and knowing that the ship would have waited certainly provided me with peace of mind.

However, most cruise ports don’t require such lengthy transit times. For example, port calls on smaller Caribbean islands where the excursion lengths are just a fraction of the ship’s overall time in port, the need for precision arrivals and departures is simply less necessary.

First time cruisers who are still getting adjusted to the rhythm of cruise travel may benefit from booking a shore excursion through the cruise line at the first port in order to get accustomed to the process. A trusted travel advisor can be invaluable in figuring out which ports are better for structured tours, and which walkable ports are best for exploring on foot.

How to plan a personalized shore excursion

A main complaint surrounding cruise line shore excursions is that, due to their size (the average excursion group on a large ship is around 30-50 people), the tours don’t feel personalized and can often be held up by stragglers. On larger ships, there’s a definite “mass travel” experience: passengers are given color coded stickers to wear before being herded into a public area, where they’re escorted off the ship to rows of waiting buses. For independent-minded travelers, this alone can be off-putting.

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However, the size—and type—of shore excursions vary by cruise line. Just as expedition cruises , river cruises , and luxury small ship lines offer different experiences at sea compared to large ship brands, the same goes for the shoreside experience. Before booking, you can check to see the specific excursions that will be offered on your voyage on the cruise line’s website.

While you can expect intimate excursion groups on small ships, some larger cruise lines also offer more personalized alternatives. Celebrity Cruise passengers can book tailored excursions through the line’s Private Journeys program; and Oceania Cruises also offers Oceania Exclusive excursions, which limits groups to 16 passengers.

For those seeking a highly-personalized experience on shore, another option is to book a private excursion with a tour operator or through a travel specialist. Top cruise specialists like Mary Jean Tully can tap a network of trusted guides in each port to tailor shore excursions to her guests’ preferences.

“We always encourage people to do something privately whenever possible,” Tully says, adding that she recommends booking a private car instead of a bus tour if flexibility is what you're after, as they can stop on a moment’s notice if travelers see something of interest.

Regardless of the type of shore excursion booked, don’t forget to take identification, cash, and most importantly, contact information for the cruise line’s port agent—they’re the local contact who can alert the ship if any emergencies or delays arise on shore. Cruise lines typically publish the port agent’s contact details in the daily program; some even hand out cards with the information or display it on monitors so passengers can take pictures with their smartphones.

In any case, the most important thing to ensure a successful shore excursion is to make it back to the ship on time, to look forward to enjoying the next day in the next port.

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15 Cruise Excursions That Are Totally Worth Doing

Posted: June 5, 2024 | Last updated: June 5, 2024

First-time cruisers are usually excited about all the relaxation and indulgence onboard the ship, but they may not realize that the excursions are one of the best parts of cruising.

Whether it’s a tour of a new city, an afternoon of adventure, or a day spent shopping in a charming town, cruise excursions let you explore several cities or countries in just a few days.

On big cruise ships, there are seemingly endless options for on-shore entertainment. Here are 15 cruise excursions that could step up your travel game .

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Wildlife tours

While on a cruise, you may find yourself in an area where there’s wildlife you won’t spot anywhere else. Maybe you’re in Maine with the puffins or Alaska with the moose. Going on a wildlife tour gives you a safe opportunity to see these animals in their natural habitat.

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Water sports excursions

From snorkeling to surfing, sometimes you want a shore excursion that gets you off the ship but not out of the water. These excursions show you some of the most interesting perspectives of the area, particularly when you’re in the Caribbean with impressive marine life.

Sporting excursions

If you feel like an active excursion where you’ll get to see the area while also getting a workout, look into booking sporting excursions like horseback riding, biking, or kayaking. Most of these activities are geared toward all levels, including beginners, so you won’t feel left behind, even if it’s your first time on a horse or in a kayak.

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Adventure excursions

For those who crave adrenaline, there are adventure excursions that will give you a different look at the world around you. From ziplining high above the rainforest to going on an ATV ride in the desert, you’ll get your heart pumping with excitement.

Sight-seeing tours

If you’re traveling to a new-to-you city, use the cruise to experience a cliff notes version of the area. Sign up for an excursion that includes a walking tour or bus tour that will show you all the highlights of the city before returning to the ship.

The food on the cruise ship may be delicious (and included!), but that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t explore the unique dishes available off the ship. Whether you’re on a Mediterranean cruise and you stop for a pasta-making class in Italy or you dine on a freshly grilled catch in Colombia, experiencing the diversity of the local food is part of the fun on a cruise.

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Museum and cultural tours

Imagine hopping off your cruise to see Michaelangelo’s David in Florence. If you’re in the vicinity of some of the world’s best museums, then it’s worth getting off the ship and experiencing the culture for yourself.

Whale watching

Depending on the time of year, you can take whale-watching trips to see these majestic creatures everywhere from the coast of Maine to Los Cabos, Mexico. Just make sure your trip aligns with when they’re most likely to be in the area’s waters.

Ancient attractions tours

Are you fascinated by the ancient world? Consider excursions to see the Mayan ruins while you’re on a cruise in Mexico or stopping at the pyramids while on a Nile River cruise. This is truly combining the best of old and new.

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Wine tasting

When your cruise happens to dock near an intriguing wine region, see if there’s a wine-tasting excursion or class to experience. Sipping on wine in the area where it’s produced helps you understand the story and provenance on a deeper level.

Cultural performance

It can be hard to fit in a cultural performance when you only have but so many hours in a day. But if you hit an afternoon matinee, you can generally get to the performance and back on the ship with plenty of time to spare.

Yes, there’s probably a pool and deck on the ship, but there’s nothing like laying in the sun and sand and relaxing with a book in hand. Many cruise ships have excursions where you can spend the day off the ship and on the beach. This could include a day pass to a local resort — food and drink included.

Sailing excursion

You’re already on the water, why do you need to get on a different boat? There’s something different and magical about an afternoon or evening spent on a sailboat. It’s more intimate and rugged than a cruise ship, and you feel like you’re one with the water.

Helicopter tours

For a splurge-worthy excursion, book a helicopter tour. In places like Hawaii or Alaska where the landscape can quickly get treacherous, a helicopter ride can offer once-in-a-lifetime views.

Ghost tours

Ghost tours aren’t just for Halloween! If you’re near a major city, chances are there’s a ghost tour. These quirky tours are a great way to learn more about a town’s history without doing a traditional guided walking tour.

Bottom line

When you’re booking a cruise, make a note of whether the shore excursions are included. Generally, on larger commercial ships, you’ll have to pay for each shore excursion individually.

But, on smaller, higher-end ships, daily shore excursions may be included with your booking rate. Either way, make sure you know ahead of time, so your cruise travel budget won’t veer off course. Just make sure to bring your favorite travel credit card .

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The Alternative to Huge Cruises? 3 Masts, 28 Sails and Wind Power.

We checked out the 136-passenger Sea Cloud Spirit on a Mediterranean cruise. In this era of gargantuan ships, its elegant clipper design, wooden decks and relatively small size stands out.

By Ceylan Yeğinsu

From the bridge of the three-masted windjammer, the Sea Cloud Spirit , the captain called out the words we’d all been waiting for.

“Let’s set the sails!” he cried, after turning off the engines, while maneuvering to maintain an optimum angle for his 18 deckhands to climb into the shrouds and unfurl the ship’s 44,132 square feet of sails by hand.

Like acrobats, the crew scurried up the masts to the upper topgallant sails that rose nearly 200 feet above us. The ship’s captain, Vukota Stojanovic, later insisted that none of it was for show. “Whenever there is an opportunity to sail, we sail,” he said.

For the next hour, the crew hauled the ropes until the 28 sails were billowing in the wind, propelling the 452-foot-long ship — the world’s largest passenger sailing vessel on which the sails are raised by hand — toward its first port of call, Portofino, Italy.

At a time when cruise lines are packing their ever-more-gargantuan ships with water parks and basketball courts, the 136-passenger Sea Cloud Spirit, with its old-fashioned clipper design and wooden decks, stands out. It is the newest ship from the Hamburg-based Sea Cloud Cruises , and while it is the company’s biggest, Sea Cloud said it wanted to leave space for passengers to connect to the surrounding elements.

“Wherever you are on the ship, it feels like you are sitting on the water,” said Amelia Dominick, 71, a retired real estate agent from Cologne, Germany, who was on her third cruise onboard the Sea Cloud Spirit.

I had arrived for a four-night “taster sailing” from Nice, France, to the Ligurian region of Italy, designed to entice passengers to sign up for a longer cruise. Here’s what I found.

The ship and cabins

The Spirit has many comforts and luxuries, including a fitness center, library, hair salon and a spa with a Finnish sauna that overlooks the sea. The deck layouts are spacious, with nooks carved out for privacy and relaxation.

Sixty-nine spacious cabins have windows that open onto the sea. My room, a junior suite on the third deck, had two large arched windows, mahogany tables, a balcony and a comfortable couch and armchair. The marble bathroom was lavish, with a gold-plated sink and large jetted bathtub.

The elegant interior design is inspired by the original Sea Cloud, built in 1931 for Marjorie Merriweather Post, the American heiress of the General Foods Corporation, with glossy wooden panels and gold trimmings. The Sea Cloud was the largest private sailing yacht in the world before Post handed it over to the U.S. Navy for use as a weather-reporting vessel during World War II. The four-mast, 64-passenger ship has since been restored to its former glory and will sail across the Aegean and Adriatic this summer.

The experience felt authentic — even before the sails were set — with a detailed safety drill. On most cruises, the drill entails a safety video and signing in at an assembly point. But here, passengers put on their life jackets and walked through emergency scenarios that included rationing food supplies and fishing from the lifeboat.

Each day, the sails were set, even during heavy rain and wind speeds over 30 knots. Guests wanting to participate in the rigging are usually invited to do so, but the weather conditions made it too risky for this sailing.

“It was amazing to watch the work go into putting the sails up and down and to experience the wind power pulling the ship so fast without the engines,” said Malte Rahnenfuehrer, a 50-year-old psychologist from Zurich, who was traveling with his partner and two children.

The captain

It is rare for cruise passengers to see the ship’s captain after the initial welcome drinks or gala dinner. But Capt. Vukota Stojanovic was omnipresent throughout the cruise, from setting sails to lifeguarding to mingling with guests.

Originally from Montenegro, Captain Stojanovic piloted container ships for years. When he was asked to consider helming the original Sea Cloud nearly 10 years ago, he hesitated because he had no experience sailing. Even after he learned the ropes — and there are 340 ropes (known as running rigging) on the vessel — he was unsure. “I grew to love the sailings, the boats, the crew the lifestyle, but I still felt I belonged on container ships,” he said. “It would be a big adjustment, especially because I would have to shave every day,” he joked.

Eventually, he accepted the opportunity and worked tirelessly to learn how to sail and operate the ship. Today, he keeps an “open bridge” policy, allowing passengers to visit the control room, even when he is wrestling with the wind.

“The crew and the passengers are all part of the experience, and I like to meet people and receive their feedback,” Captain Stojanovic said.

Environment

Sea Cloud Cruises aspires to take a “gentle” approach, using wind power to drive its ships wherever possible, even if that means changing course for optimal weather conditions. When sailing is not possible, the Spirit has two diesel-electric engines that run on low-sulfur marine diesel fuel. The company is also working with ports that have shore power capabilities to plug into the local electric power.

Onboard, there is an emphasis on reusable bottles and paper straws, and crew members separate solid waste to be compacted and removed when in port.

Excursions and Activities

We made stops in Portofino, San Remo, Italy, and St.-Tropez, France, anchoring offshore and getting to land by tender — a contrast to the big cruise ships with their loud horns and thick plumes of exhaust spewing from their funnels.

For passengers wanting to take a dip (there is no pool), the crew marked an area in the water with floats and an inflatable slide. The water was frigid, but many passengers took the plunge from the swimming deck. Guests could also take “Zodiac Safaris” around the ship to get views of the vessel from the water.

Excursions ranged from food and wine tours to e-biking and beach trips. In Portofino, passengers were free to explore the sights independently, including the Castello Brown Fortress and the lighthouse on Punta del Capo rock. There was ample time to eat meals on shore as the ship did not depart until 11 p.m. Over the summer, the Sea Cloud Spirit will sail to Spain, Portugal, France and the Azores, among other destinations. On Nov. 11, she will depart for St. Maarten in the Caribbean for the winter.

Wherever the vessel goes, said Mirell Reyes, president of Sea Cloud Cruise for North America, the company tries to “stay away from the crowds and ports where big cruise ships spit out 6,000 passengers.”

Summer prices, which include food and beverages, range from $3,995 for a four-night sailing in a superior cabin to $9,420 for a veranda suite. Seven-night sailings cost between $6,995 and $16,495.

Follow New York Times Travel on Instagram and sign up for our weekly Travel Dispatch newsletter to get expert tips on traveling smarter and inspiration for your next vacation. Dreaming up a future getaway or just armchair traveling? Check out our 52 Places to Go in 2024 .

Ceylan Yeginsu is a travel reporter for The Times who frequently writes about the cruise industry and Europe, where she is based. More about Ceylan Yeğinsu

Come Sail Away

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We're elevating our Loyalty Status Match program to give you the best benefits at sea. Captain's Club members will now receive one-for-one tier matching across all three Royal Caribbean Group brands: Celebrity Cruises®, Royal Caribbean®, and now also Silversea®. This shared status gives you more benefits than ever before, and more ways to see the world-with more than 50 incredible ships sailing to nearly 1,000 destinations.

Find your Celebrity Cruises Captain's Club tier below and discover your loyalty match for Crown & Anchor® Society andVenetian Society.

For Crown & Anchor Society and Captain’s Club: Enroll through the Royal Caribbean or Celebrity Cruises websites, or their respective apps. Guests who are currently only members of Venetian Society should call 1-888-978-4070 (North America) or call your local Silversea Office (charges may apply).

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For more information regarding our Loyalty Status Match program, view our Frequently Asked Questions.

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5 Ways to Use Your Onboard Credit

By Evelyn Uslar-Pietri  | Published on May 31, 2024

You’ve booked a cruise sailing from Sydney or Brisbane on Quantum Class favourites Ovation of the Seas® , Quantum of the Seas® or Anthem of the Seas® or the amped up Voyager of the Seas® and, in the process, you may have earned onboard credits (OBCs). But, as promising as they sound, they are also somewhat shrouded in mystery. Specifically, how do you access these OBCs – and once you’ve laid hands on them, what exactly can you use them for?

You will conveniently find your OBCs in your online account, which can be accessed at sign in , so you can book in the Cruise Planner before you board. Alternatively, you will find them on your Seapass® card, the personal onboard expense account you’ll use for all your onboard expenditures. When you make a purchase or pay for a service on your cruise, the onboard credits are applied. No fuss, no muss.

Now for the fun part: discovering the best ways to spend your bonus money (OR OBCs). Although many dining venues, activities and entertainment are included in your fare, Royal Caribbean® ships also offer exceptional speciality experiences - temptations you can wholeheartedly embrace with your budget-stretching OBCs!

Speciality Dining

Foodies take note: you’re boarding one of the hottest food scenes found at sea! With scrumptious palate-pleasing options around every corner, the greatest difficulty is deciding what you want to eat! Does homemade linguine – perfectly al dente and tossed with garlicky prawns – sound like a ticket to paradise? Then head over to Jamie’s Italian by Jamie Oliver, a Tuscan-inspired eatery led by one of Britain’s most famous chefs.

Or are you in an Asian vein, craving melt-in-your-mouth sushi and a bowl of fragrant yaki udon? Look no further than Izumi Japanese Cuisine , where every swoon-worthy taste transports you to the Far East. Classic American steakhouse fare at Chops Grille℠, fantastical whimsy at Wonderland Imaginative Cuisine , the crown of gastronomy at Chef’s Table – a kaleidoscope of delicious flavours awaits you. And the best part? Your onboard credits can take a big bite out of the tab, or even eat the whole thing up!

Onboard Entertainment and Activities

When you book a cruise on Royal Caribbean, you can rightfully expect it to be packed with every kind of top-notch adventure. From the chart-topping Broadway show, We Will Rock You on Anthem of the Seas®, multimedia production shows and the thrilling ice skating show on Voyager of the Seas® to toe-tapping live music and parties the whole family can get in on. Movie nights, game shows and wow-worthy activities, like the FlowRider® surf simulator and bumper cars at SeaPlex® on Quantum Class ships or The Perfect Storm℠ waterslide duo on Voyager of the Seas® are all included. There’s so much to discover that you could keep your crew busy 24/7 and not run out of things to do!

Fortunately, almost everything is included in your cruise, with a small handful of exceptions. Games at the Royal Caribbean Arcade have an associated fee, as do certain games at SeaPlex . Your OBCs will also come in handy on skydiving simulator, RipCord® by iFLY® and  North Star®, the Guinness Book World Record holder for tallest viewing deck on a cruise ship. With its glass-enclosed capsule rising a staggering 100 metres above sea level, you are afforded 360° views of the surrounding world. These incur a cost when the ship is at sea and are worth every single OBC, in our humble opinion!

Have you ever been curious about what goes on behind-the-scenes on one of the largest cruise ships at sea? Then hop on an All Access Tour where you’ll get a first-hand peek of the Bridge, Engine Control Room and other inner workings.

If you are particularly interested in the epicurean side of things, the Sip Tour Brunch may be your special jam (Okay. No more puns)! Led by the Chef, you’ll roam the galley gleaning its secrets before tucking into a mouth-watering brunch paired with unlimited sparkling wine. Whether you choose to book through the Cruise Planner before you board or wait until you are onboard, cheers to OBCs well spent!

SPA AND Shopping

Shopping and OBCs are an inspired natural pairing, much like tea and biscuits. After all, what could be more satisfying than – quite literally – freely indulging yourself? Onboard Royal Caribbean, shopping is not only duty-free but you’ll discover a superb array of stores offering fine jewellery, Swiss timepieces, designer apparel and other enticements.

While the kiddos are enjoying their dedicated complimentary programs at Adventure Ocean , you may want to plan a few hours of much-deserved me-time, beelining for the spa. An oasis of relaxation and renewal, the spa offers massages, facials and medi-spa treatments, as well as complete hair and nail services. Put your OBCs to work in the name of beauty, and walk out feeling on top of the world.

Quality “me-time” can also be about perfecting skills or picking up new ones at a class: life-defining abilities such as crafting swans out of towels or turning a napkin into the perfect place setting are free. While decorating decadent cupcakes or attending a scrapbooking class may incur a small charge for materials – which your helpful OBCs will be happy to cover!

Shore excursions and More

A significant benefit of booking a Royal Caribbean cruise is that young seafarers have their own programmes, led by thoroughly screened and trained staff. Fusing fun and education, the award-winning Adventure Ocean, is designed for 3-11 year-olds. Although included in your fare, fees apply after 10 pm. Since there is also a cost associated with our Royal Babies & Tots programme  for 6-36 month olds, your OBCs can be put to excellent use with child-care.

You can even use them for shore excursions. Take your adventure underwater and discover a whole world that’s teeming with life in the South Pacific or lace up your hiking boots and discover the natural beauty of New Zealand. For professional photo packages, internet access and other onboard expenses, your OBCs can also be readily applied.

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Written By EVELYN USLAR-PIETRI

Evelyn's passion for exploring the world, combined with her unforgettable travels onboard Royal Caribbean, shine through in her pieces for the cruise line. She also writes for Roar Media--a full-stack marketing agency based in Miami, Florida--as well as other travel and lifestyle-related brands.

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