Alaska Cruises: Excursions

Visit the Montserrat Children’ Home, an orphanage created in 1982 by Fray Casiano de Madrid. Here, you’ll be welcomed by one of the sisters and children. Your tour guide will serve as interpreter as you are given an explanation of the programs carried at the home. You’ll meet and partake with the children as you learn about their daily duties, games and programs. These children are brought up with good values and manners which can be applied to their future adult lives. The home was operated by a group of young ladies who later became the Congregation of Missionary Sisters of the Assumption. Today, they provide comprehensive care to dozens of children from the ages of one through 18 and aim to give them the best possible quality of life. Next, visit the orchid’s farm, located in the small village of Miramar. Here, you'll learn about the orchid’s habitat, their means of cultivation, blooming and how they are prepared for export. Your guide will acquaint you with the country’s history, politics and culture while you admire the northern countryside and landscape. Costa Rica is a blessed country with year-round spring weather, and the exuberance of its flora has given it the name of Garden of the Americas. Enjoy tropical fruits buffet and refreshments before heading back to your ship. Note: Tour sequence may vary, this is a donation tour. Part of the proceeds will go towards helping the children’s of the orphanage. less

Take part in one of Mexico’s most valued traditions as you taste a variety of Mexico’s famous Tequila and Mezcal. From the pier, you’ll be transferred to a historic local house that has been transformed into a boutique hotel. This charming setting boasts a collection of local folk art and exotic plant arrangements from the region. The owner will show you around the grounds before gathering the group in the dining room. Learn about the tequila and mezcal making processes as well as the different properties that make each unique. After a brief history lesson, you’ll have the opportunity to taste some of Mexico’s best tequila and mezcal. Then, enjoy a demonstration on how to mix tequila into the perfect margarita. Afterwards, you will travel by van to the culturally diverse city of Tapachula. Its history and heritage has been influenced not only by the Mayans, Mestizo and Spanish but by German, Chinese, Japanese and French immigrants as well. You’ll have the opportunity to visit the town square where you’ll find a historic church, the city hall building as well as vendors and small stores. You may choose to walk, sit in a café, shop or explore the archeological museum (entrance fee not included). When time’s up, you'll be escorted back to your ship. Note: Guests should wear a hat and comfortable shoes. Bring eco-friendly sunscreen and bug repellent. Most areas are not wheelchair accessible. less

The Sky Walk trails and suspended cable bridges will show you the wonders of the tropical forest. Located around National Parks and protected lands, more than 120 species of birds have been identified as well as mammals such as the Kinkajou, Agoutis, Coatis and many more. Your one hour walk downhill will enable you to enjoy breathtaking views of the ocean and coastline, as well as its vegetation and waterways. Having experienced the thrill of the bridges and trails, fresh fruit and water will replenish some of your energy left behind in the forest. Visit Santa Lucia Shopping Village for some souvenirs before you head back to your ship. This town is a replica of Costa Rica’s historical past and it adds a quaint and charming touch to its natural surroundings. Note: Participants must be at least 8 years of age. There is a considerable amount of walking on this tour (moderate to mild). Not recommended for guests with heart or respiratory conditions due to the heat, humidity and the level of activity. There are uneven dirt trails and hanging bridges. Wear light clothing, insect repellent and sunscreen. Walking or hiking shoes recommended as well as raingear. Wildlife sightings, while common are not guaranteed. less

Estimated at over 5 million years old, the Green Grotto Caves is the first historic cave worldwide to receive the Green Globe 21 certification, a global affiliation working with travel and tourism companies and communities to develop and maintain good environmental practices. The caves are characterized by coastal limestone and feature a series of interconnected passageways and chambers, light holes, stalactites and stalagmites, as well as two lakes. Their most striking features are rock formations and the small 'grotto' lake at the innermost cavern. Take a 3/4-mile guided stroll through a maze of exquisite dripstone formations and learn about the sensitive eco-system found within and around the caves. See limestone formations that have been christened after the individuals they resemble, including Abraham Lincoln, Freddie Krueger and the cartoon character, Scooby Doo among others. Your guide will demonstrate the cave’s musical stones and be sure to toss a coin in the wishing well before your departure. A refreshing beverage is provided at the end of the tour. On the return drive to Ocho Rios, you’ll visit Dunn’s River Falls. Climb the spectacular 600-foot waterfall at Dunn’s River Falls and then shop for souvenirs in the center of town before returning to your ship. Note: Participants must be at least 4 years of age and be at least 3 feet tall to climb the falls. This is a walking tour and visitors will be guided through areas that are paved, with uneven surfaces, gravel and rocks. Visitors need to be sure footed and must be able to bend to negotiate small access ways. Slippery when wet caution signs are posted through the caves as a reminder to visitors. There are 62 steps throughout the tour. All visitors are fitted with a sanitary helmet liner and hard helmet and offered a spray of mosquito repellent prior to the start of the tour. The Dunn’s River Falls are the highlight of Jamaica and tend to be very congested. All guests participating in a tour that visits the falls should wear foot protection that can get wet. River socks are available for rent at the falls. The rocks at the falls are slippery. Climbing the falls is optional and at your own risk. Participants who do not wish to climb the falls may enjoy the small beach at the base. The walk to the beach is on a slope with many stairs, therefore participants should be in reasonably good health. less

Experience the sounds, flavors and culture of Mexico. Travel for approximately 45 minutes to a local resort, overlooking the city of Tapachula. On your way to the resort your guide will share interesting facts about the history, culture and customs of Mexico. Upon arrival, your local chef will greet you with a freshly made margarita before showing you how to prepare local dishes. In fact, you will be served the whole meal at the end of the class for your own enjoyment. Marimba players will share their skills with lively performances to enhance your Mexican cooking experience. You’ll be able to take home the recipe you just prepared. Note: Guests should wear comfortable shoes. Most areas are not wheelchair accessible. less