Clear turquoise seas, white-sand beaches, great shopping, potent rum drinks and swaying palm trees will be the mainstay of your Western Caribbean cruise. However, cruise lines do understand that their passengers are younger and now interested in being able to create an active and unique experience while they are in ports of call. This is why there are a number of different Western Caribbean shore excursions that allow passengers to take risks, test their limits and feel that exciting rush of adrenaline.
Which of The Western Caribbean Shore Excursions Worth Trying?
While passengers can easily admire the tropical birds of the rainforest from afar, why not do it where they are – zooming down a zip-line. Passengers may also be interested in donning a snorkel and fins and getting in the water to swim with the dolphins. This is just offered by the Dolphin Swim Adventure at Chankanaab National Marine Park. There is no question that the cruise lines have been extremely busy developing new Western Caribbean shore excursions for their passengers to keep them happy and entertained.
However, the Western Caribbean shore excursions are not limited to the tame experience of swimming with the dolphins. In fact, you can opt for much more exciting adventures, such as an Atlantis Submarine Expedition or taking a tour of the Altun Ha Mayan Temples. The submarine excursion allows visitors to explore the beautiful coral reef without ever getting wet. Additionally, there will be no pressure issues, keeping the ride smooth and fun for everyone. Experience the world and landmarks in ways that pictures don’t do justice. See firsthand the ancient civilization of the Mayans and take an underwater submarine to the depths of the ocean.
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Extended Docking Offers Passengers Time to Play
There are a number of ports where passengers can stay off the boat for a period of up to 10 hours. Spending the day shopping and on the beach is good for some; however, others desire more from their cruise adventure. This is when Western Caribbean shore excursions come into play. A popular option for passengers of all ages is the Grand Cayman Jet Ski shore excursion that takes place when the ship makes port in George Town. Passengers can rent single or double jet skis and travel to the Stingray City Sandbar, where snorkeling is available. This is a much more exciting way to spend a day than lying on a beach. This is also available for passengers that wish to experience the tropical lifestyle.
If the ship is docking in Montego Bay, Jamaica, an excursion that should be considered is John’s Hall Adventure Tour, where visitors will see the true spirit and flavor offered by Jamaica. Experience the majestic countryside, lazy rivers and wild flowers that may not always be associated with this tropical destination. For anyone visiting Ocho Rios, take the shore excursion to the close-by Dunn’s River Falls, which is one of the most popular natural attractions in all of Jamaica. Here visitors can go swimming, climb the natural terraces by the waterfalls and eat a traditional Jamaican lunch at a nearby restaurant.
For anyone on a cruise that is docking in Honduras, the Roatan excursion is a must-experience. Once picked up from the ship, participants are driven to Oak Ridge, which is the oldest fishing village on the island. Here a motorized boat will be waiting to provide a tour through the mangroves where everyone can see native wildlife and learn about the local culture.
Don’t Just Visit – Explore
Going on a cruise to an exotic destination is the perfect opportunity to discover a new place, new foods and experience new things. Planning Western Caribbean shore excursions offers passengers the opportunity to make so much more of their time on a ship. There is no reason to be a passive traveler. Take your trip in your hands and plan one of the exciting excursions that is available at the ports where your ship stops.
Another gripping destination that cruise ships will stop at is Mexico. While here, passengers can opt for a private tour of Cozumel. Passengers will be able to experience the vibrant traditions and culture of the people and visit the ancient civilizations that are preserved. In addition to experiencing the culture of the area, passengers will also get a full experience of the tropical atmosphere, including all the native flora and fauna in the area. Grab a souvenir and head back to port, as the ship will soon be headed to the next destination.
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There is no question that Western Caribbean shore excursions are becoming more and more popular as travelers want to experience more of what an area has to offer. From exploring a new land, trying new foods and experiencing the culture of another part of the world, these shore excursions offer unique benefits that come with taking a cruise. For anyone planning to book a cruise, be sure to ask about the available shore excursions so nothing is missed and you can take full advantage of everything a cruise has to offer.