Caribbean Cruises: Excursions

There's a seat for you on an intricately painted, four-wheel-drive, open-air ex-Army truck! Picture this - no windows, no aisles, no glass barriers and no enclosed seating. This fun-filled shore excursion begins with a short drive through Dominica's capital, Roseau, to the historical site of Morne Bruce and the Botanical Gardens for a close-up encounter with the national parrot, the Sisserou. Feel the force of nature as you wind through the mountains to the renowned Sulphur Springs to view remnants of the island's volcanic activity. Hop back on, and enjoy a ride into the interior to the Ti Tou Gorge, to discover a crevice in the mountain where hot and cold streams intermingle into a natural, plunging rock pool for an exhilarating swim. If you are really adventurous, swim between the mountains of the gorge to discover a spectacular view of a crystal-clear waterfall. Local refreshments and rum punch will be served. Note: Participants must be in good health. Not recommended for pregnant women or people with back and neck problems. less

This combination excursion gives you the opportunity to ride a historical train that has been in service for more than 50 years and participate on a scenic ride through rural countryside and tropical fields. Afterwards, board your motorcoach en route to the Tarcoles River where you’ll go on a boat and explore the spectacular natural scenery this river has to offer. The river and mangroves attract many types of bird wildlife such as toucans, spoonbills, herons, egrets, jacanas, pelicans, scarlet macaws, iguanas and crocodiles. Upon your return enjoy some live marimba melodies and enjoy a delicious buffet of seasonal fruits and tropical refreshments. Enough time will be provided to select crafts made by local artisans before returning to your ship. Note: This excursion might operate in reverse order. Please wear casual clothing, comfortable walking shoes, a hat, sunscreen, and bring a camera and raingear. Wildlife sightings while common cannot be guaranteed. Advance notice is needed for guests in wheelchairs; motorized scooters cannot be handled, only foldable wheelchairs. The type of walking required is along even roads and compact gravel trails. A free bird guide will be provided at the beginning of the river cruise, which will allow participants to identify any feathered creatures seen along the way. less

Experience the real Jamaica in our zebra-striped safari Jeeps. We’ll take you up to the highest viewpoint, Murphy Hill (2,000 feet above sea level) to look down upon Ocho Rios, the cruise ship pier, the Blue Mountains, and, on a clear day, Cuba. You’ll pass through small villages, where you’ll learn the history of old churches and see local marketplaces. During this tour, you’ll visit one of Jamaica’s largest estates, observing a working cattle station and a small coffee plantation. Taste and learn about our fruits and Jamaica’s great history. The highlight of your tour will be the Dunn’s River Falls, where you can climb the 600-foot cascades. Get Wet! Enjoy! Yeah Mon! You have just seen the best Jamaica has to offer. 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 sequence may vary. 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. Before heading back to your ship, relax on a spacious catamaran with shaded areas while you head to Cayman's famous Sand Bar to interact, feed and pet southern stingrays in the wild. Note: Participants must be at least 8 years of age. less

Enjoy a countryside drive along the coast to one of the most picturesque places in Jamaica, the 'Land of Wood and Water', for a unique Jamaican experience. See the lifestyles of rural and urban Jamaica en route to the Martha Brae rafting village. Upon arrival, and after you are greeted with a welcome tropical drink, stroll the beautiful lawns and visit the herb garden, which is a presentation of Jamaican herbs that are famous for their medicinal and healing properties, prior to embarkation. Picture yourself on a bamboo raft built for two, gliding slowly down a river that meanders gently through whispering groves of bamboo and ferns, as you listen to the chatter of birds and the soft chop-chop of the raftman’s pole. As your raft makes its way pass shaded banks and dappled sunlight, the raft Captain will tell you the legend of 'Matibereon' as the mild river breeze washes over you. Float along the river and relax in an atmosphere of tranquility on the three-mile journey before arriving at the Rafter’s Rest, where the bus awaits for the return trip to Ocho Rios. Note: Participants must not weigh more than 280 lbs. less