Caribbean Cruises: Excursions

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

Enjoy the natural beauty and undeniable magic of hidden Mexico in one of our single driver all-terrain vehicles. Your adventure begins when you are greeted by your bilingual guide and taken to your awaiting Kodiak transportation. After a short ride to the welcome station, receive a safety briefing and driving course. You'll then don your helmet and goggles and hop on your one person ATV and enjoy the driving experience. Follow your guide as you ride through the off road paths surrounded by tropical vegetation. Observe the natural beauty and feel the breeze on your face while driving over the coastline of Costa Maya. Visit a nice secluded beach where you’ll stop for a one hour break. Here is the end of your ATV ride experience and now it’s time to relax, take a swim in the ocean, admire the views or just lay down on the beach. As an optional activity you can snorkel while you explore the marine life and coral reefs; snorkel gear is included. You'll then be taken back to your ship’s pier on a Kodiak truck. Note: Participants must be at least 16 years of age and weigh no more than 350 lbs. Valid driver’s license required. One bottle of water and a light snack are included. One person per ATV. A helmet and goggles will be provided and must be worn. Closed-toe shoes are required. Long pants, a swimsuit, towel, sunscreen and insect repellant are recommended. Due to safety reasons, pregnant women and guests with heart/respiratory conditions or back/neck injuries are not permitted on this excursion. Guests will be required to sign a release before participating. In case of inclement weather, the snorkel activity may not be available. less

Saddle up for the approximately 2 1/2-hour Horseback ride n' Swim. Ride along Papillion Cove, where the movie "Papillion" was shot in 1973, and locations where "Return to Treasure Island" (1985) and "Passion and Paradise" (1988) were shot. You’ll see the remains of Richmond and Llandovery, two of the oldest sugar plantations on the island. Be caressed by the refreshing breeze of the Caribbean Sea as your trail takes you along the charming coastline to Chukka Beach. Your experienced guides will educate you on our rich history, culture, flora and fauna. Enjoy a refreshing drink of water or purchase a drink at the bar whilst your guides unsaddle your mounts and prepare for the amazing bareback ride in the Caribbean Sea. Afterwards, take a shower while the guides resaddle the horses for the return trip to Chukka Cove. Browse the gift shop filled with unique Jamaican treasures and enjoy a cold drink and jerk chicken from the Chukka Bar and Grill. Note: Passengers must be at least 6 years of age and weigh no more than 264 lbs. This tour is not recommended for guests with neck/ back problems or pregnant women. Tour participation is limited. less

Huatulco’s surrounding communities are no exceptions if you want to take a piece of Mexico back home! Begin your tour in the small town named Piedra de Moros, where you’ll visit the medicinal plants and herbs. Receive a brief explanation of their names and which diseases they can cure. Taste a refreshing tea of lemon herb and see the traditional way of making "tortillas" and bread. Learn the use of "Nopal" (Cactus) and sample all these traditional Mexican products. Your next stop will be Santa Maria, here you’ll visit its beautiful church that was built on the 17th Century. Visit local blacksmith's artisanal shop with more than a century old, and where nowadays working tools are made with recycled materials. Then, stop by a Rustic Mezcal Factory where the elaborated process of distillation of this traditional Oaxaca´s beverage will be shown as well as the different uses of the "Maguey" plant. Return to your ship with memories of real lifestyles of Mexican Communities. Note: Participants under the age of 18 must be accompanied by an adult. Guest must be in good health. Not recommended for pregnant women. Wear comfortable clothes and shoes. Bring sun screen and cash as credit cards are not accepted in the small towns. less

Join us for a fun-filled hour of snorkeling at The EX USS Kittiwake Wreck Site, the Cayman Islands newest shipwreck snorkel site. The snorkel site is in the Kittiwake Marine park, where all guests will receive a commemorative wrist band of the USS Kittiwake - a 251 ft. submarine rescue vessel, which sunk in 56 feet of water. The Kittiwake sits upright with her top deck only 4 feet from the surface. This wreck is a brand new attraction to Grand Cayman and is expected to be around for at least 50 years, due to her double hull structure and some 1800 tons. It is also a great site to see moray eels, lobsters and sea turtles. After the snorkel you will be transferred to Tiki Beach where you can enjoy the facilities including lounge chair and welcome rum or fruit punch. Rest rooms, changing rooms and fresh water showers are available for your use. For those who prefer a more active day…. kayaks, jet skis, parasailing, snorkel equipment and beach floats are available for rent at the water sports center. A full bar service and a la carte restaurant are also available at additional cost. Note: Participants under the age of 16 must be supervised by an adult. less