Caribbean Cruises: Excursions

This tour provides an excellent overview of the Caribbean’s smallest island shared by two nations. Travel from one country to the other and see the both the Dutch and French influences dating back to 1648. The Dutch arrived first in 1631 looking for wood to make repairs. You’ll drive from today’s modern Dutch capital of Philipsburg past the Great Salt Pond, which served to make the island "worth its salt" attracting the French. On the way to the French side, you’ll pass the Border Monument. Between 1948 and 1816, this border changed 16 times. You will drive through the French capital of Marigot, with its quaint charm, before stopping at one of the island's popular beaches on Orient Bay. Here you will have approximately one and a half hours to enjoy the sun and sand. You are on your own to do as you please. All too soon its time to head back across the island to Philipsburg and your awaiting ship. Note: Wear your swimsuit and bring a towel. Please do not leave personal belongings unattended. Beaches in St. Maarten are European-style, clothing-optional beaches. less

The Dolphin Encounter is a unique opportunity to meet these incredible mammals up close and personal in waist deep water. The Dolphin Encounter experience begins with a brief orientation and then you can enjoy the friendship of your dolphin by receiving a kiss or two. You’ll also learn about dolphin behaviors and how Dolphin Cove’s trainers use hand signals and positive reinforcement to communicate. Professional photographers are there to capture your memories of an experience of a lifetime. Note: Participants must be at least 8 years of age. less

Experience the Mayan Reality on a cultural adventure that will both educate and delight you. Many visitors think of the Mayans as an ancient civilization that disappeared long ago, but the fact is that while many other indigenous groups have vanished or been absorbed into the general population, the Mayan culture, customs, language and beliefs remain strong on the Yucatan Peninsula even today. On this tour you’ll witness the reality that faces these remarkable people as their ancient culture collides with and blends into the modern world. Begin your adventure in a small, contemporary Mayan community built up around the remains of an ancient Mayan settlement and visit one of the fascinating ruins located right in the middle of town. Follow your guide into an authentic Mayan house where you’ll learn about the local food and the ancient medicines. You’ll hear about the sacred Mayan tree and its role in the cosmos as well as legends, lore and prophesies written in the Mayan calendar. If you’ve visited any Mayan ruin or are remotely interested in the first people that populated the Americas, then you’ll be surprised, fascinated and left with a new-found respect for this long-lived culture and the legacy they leave here in Costa Maya. less

In 1494, when the Spanish discovered Jamaica, they named the village Ocho Rios, after the wondrous 'eight rivers' they saw here. Today you’ll explore one of those eight rivers that the Spanish found - the amazing, untouched White River. Take a step back in time when your adventure begins at the 17th-century landmark, Spanish Bridge. This is a site you can only see on your river tubing expedition. As you get ready to journey down the cool waters of the White River, which gained its name from the pristine clarity of its water, you’ll receive a safety briefing from your experienced guides who will also outfit you with all of your safety equipment for your journey ahead. This three-mile ride down the White River not only gives you the rich history of Jamaica, it shows you the beauty of our land as you pass by coconut plantations, bamboo groves and along river banks filled with indigenous flora and fauna. The real adventure lies in the White River as you enjoy her many moods, which will bring you to challenging rapids and enchanting lagoons. The breathtaking views and vistas of this tour, which takes you between two of our island’s most scenic parishes, St. Mary and St. Ann on what locals call the 'Interparish Express', can only be found on the River Tubing Safari Tour. As you disembark the White River, you’ll find yourself in one of Jamaica’s most beautiful valleys. The White River Valley property is a garden paradise with over 100 species of flowers for your viewing pleasure. The property’s facilities and buildings mirror the architecture of a traditional Jamaican village, so be sure to stop by Parrot Bar and indulge in some of our traditional Jamaican jerk cuisine, refresh yourself with a cool drink, browse the Valley Trader gift shop or just take in the sights of the real Jamaica. Note: Participants must be at least 6 years of age and weigh no more than 300 lbs. This tour is not recommended for guests with heart, neck/ back problems or pregnant women. Tour participation is limited. less

This exciting beach tour will take you from your ship through several villages to Parrot Tree Plantation community in First Bight, where you’ll be driven through the 200-acre estate all the way out to the beach lagoon. Once there you’ll be treated to the best - you may relax in lounge chairs, on beach beds, and under the shade of palm trees and palapas along the beach. You’ll also enjoy a complimentary island-style salad bar buffet which includes beans and rice,fried plantains,fish,chicken,a green salad, soft drinks, fruit punch, lemonade and water. If you are a beach lover, don't think of anything else, the South Beach Experience is your best choice. less