cruise shore excursions jamaica

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Welcome to Jamaica, a lovely mountainous island nestled in the Caribbean located south of Cuba. Everyone who visits this magical place is amazed at the friendliness of the locals and the beauty of the island. Known for its water activities and historical sights of interest, there is a lot to see and do, especially on our Jamaica Excursions and Jamaica Cruise Excursions. Kingston Harbour (British spelling) is the seventh largest natural harbor in the world, which is also why the city of Kingston itself has named the capital back in the 1800s. A popular way to visit Jamaica is by cruise ships - Falmouth, Montego Bay, and Ocho Rios are the big cruise ports. The cruise lines that service Jamaica includes Royal Caribbean, Disney Cruise Lines, Pullmantur, Hapag Lloyd, Aida, MSC, Princess, P&O, and Norwegian Cruise Lines along with others. Rather enjoy the day at the beach then maybe our Montego Bay Adults Only All Inclusive Secrets Wild Orchid Resort Day Pass at an exclusive resort is your interest, other Jamaica Shore Excursions options include our All Inclusive Resort Day Pass at RIU Ocho Rios and Montego Bay Grand Palladium Resort All Inclusive Day Pass . Exploring and sightseeing are also popular Jamaica excursions that encourage folks to truly experience the island life. Some of the most popular sites include the famous Dunn's River Falls that you can enjoy on our Montego Bay Dunn's River Falls, Shopping, Lunch and Ocho Rios Sightseeing Excursion . Or maybe taking in our Falmouth Rose Hall Great House, Montego Bay City Sightseeing, Shopping and Dr. Cave Beach Excursion is more your interest. Try the famous Montego Bay Negril Beach and Rick's Cafe Excursion to see the cliff divers. We hope you have a great time on your visit to the lovely island of Jamaica. So, kick back, relax and enjoy the beauty of Jamaica! Enjoy our Jamaica Excursions and Jamaica Cruise Excursions!

Cruise Shore Excursions Jamaica

Top ways to experience Cruise Shore Excursions Jamaica and nearby attractions

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Cruise Shore Excursions Jamaica - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)

Historic Town, Modern Adventures

Falmouth shore excursions.

Whether you're in search of adventure , relaxation, cultural exploration or culinary delights, Falmouth has an abundance of activities to suit every taste. Let's explore the top Falmouth, Jamaica shore excursions that promise an unforgettable experience.

At Dolphin Cove, families and animal lovers can embark on a memorable journey, immersing themselves in interactive experiences with dolphins. This marine park offers a blend of education and entertainment, where you can swim, play and even share a kiss with these intelligent creatures. Perfect for family adventures, this Dolphin Cove excursion is designed to entertain all age groups, ensuring unforgettable experiences.

Another must-visit attraction in Falmouth is the Greenwood Great House, a 200-year-old plantation house that stands as a testament to Jamaica's colonial past. You can enjoy a firsthand look at well-preserved Georgian architecture and period furnishings on guided tours of Greenwood Great House. It's a fascinating glimpse into the lives of the families who once called this grand estate home.

For thrill-seekers, Falmouth offers exhilarating ziplining excursions. Soar above the tropical canopy and enjoy panoramic views of the coastline while experiencing the ultimate adrenaline rush. The lush landscapes and fresh Caribbean air create the perfect backdrop for an unforgettable treetop adventure.

Seeking a more relaxed experience? Look no further than the Bamboo Beach Club, an idyllic retreat. This private beach sanctuary boasts pristine sands and crystal-clear waters, offering a tranquil escape for couples on a romantic getaway or families in search of a peaceful day by the shore. Lounge in a beach chair, take a leisurely swim or indulge in delicious Jamaican cuisine at the seaside restaurant.

Nature enthusiasts will find Dunn's River Falls to be an iconic destination. Guided excursions to Dunn's River Falls provide an exhilarating experience, with opportunities to swim in refreshing pools created by the cascading waters, making it a perfect outing for families and adventure seekers alike. If you're up for even more excitement, don't miss out on exploring the enchanting Green Grotto Caves nearby! These mysterious limestone caverns are filled with winding passages adorned with stalactites and stalagmites, offering a friendly guided tour through underground wonders that perfectly complements the natural beauty of Dunn's River Falls.

For those interested in the rich flavors of Jamaica, rum-tasting excursions are a must. Sample a variety of local rums and delve into the fascinating history of Jamaican rum production. This flavorful journey through Jamaica's most iconic spirit offers a unique perspective on the island's culture and traditions.

Experience the wonders of Falmouth and its surroundings with immersive island tours. Led by passionate locals, these tours take you on a journey through time, uncovering historic landmarks and treating you to awe-inspiring viewpoints. Along the way, you'll learn about enchanting Jamaican folklore and gain a profound insight into the vibrant local culture. With options tailored to suit different interests, island tours are the perfect choice for any group of travelers seeking a rich and diverse experience.

When you find yourself in Falmouth, don't miss out on the dynamic shopping scene. Venture through lively markets and quaint boutiques to uncover a wealth of shopping opportunities. The streets of this town are infused with hidden treasures just waiting to be unearthed. Whether you're in search of local crafts, unique souvenirs or delightful Jamaican specialties, Falmouth has it all.

Indulge in Falmouth's shore excursions, tailored to every generation and preference. Families can revel in interactive experiences at Dolphin Cove, couples can ignite romance at Bamboo Beach Club and seniors can opt for more relaxed outings like historical tours or scenic drives. Plus, food enthusiasts can treat themselves to culinary delights, immersing in the rich, diverse flavors of Jamaican cuisine.

Falmouth, Jamaica is a destination that offers a wide range of experiences for everyone to enjoy. Whether you're seeking an adrenaline rush by soaring through treetops, a journey into history, or simply a chance to relax on the beach and savor local flavors, Falmouth's shore excursions have something for every taste. Get ready to embark on an adventure that aligns perfectly with your desires, allowing you to create unforgettable memories in this tropical paradise.

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CRUISE TO FALMOUTH, JAMAICA

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• Jamaica Port Guide
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Falmouth, Jamaica Port Guide

Encounter Georgian architecture, reggae culture, cool waterfalls, and blissful beaches on cruises to Jamaica, an island forged by flames, rebellions, and pirates. Learn all about Bob Marley, the island’s most iconic and beloved musician. Climb up natural rock formations at Dunns River Falls, and take a dip in one of the natural pools you’ll encounter along the way. Savor jerk chicken and sip on some famous Blue Mountain coffee. Or simply lay back and relax at one of the beautiful beaches of Montego Bay, where turquoise waters and swaying palm trees await on your luxury Caribbean cruise . 

Cruises to Falmouth, Jamaica

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Top sights and attractions on a jamaica cruise, doctor's cave beach.

Located in Montego Bay, Doctor’s Cave Beach earned its name after a British osteopath stopped by the beach in the 1920s and boasted about its curative powers and many health benefits. Take a dip or go on a snorkeling excursion in the warm, crystal-clear waters, or enjoy a relaxing day on the white, pristine sand under the shadow of a palm tree.

Bob Marley’s Home

Step inside the former home of Bob Marley, the musical legend who turned reggae into a global phenomenon. Located in Kingston, this wooden house has been turned into a museum that provides a beautiful look into Marley’s early life and musical legacy. Peek inside Marley’s bedroom, which has been kept exactly as when the music star lived in it. Watch a life-sized 3D hologram of Bob Marley performing at his One Love Peace Concert in 1978. See one of the largest collections of Bob Marley memorabilia, which include his favorite clothes, his collection of gold and platinum records, and his original star guitar.

Rose Hall Great House

Visit the majestic 6,600-acre Rose Hall Great House, one of the most famous homes in Jamaica and the setting for a number of Gothic novels and tales. Built in the 18th century, this plantation is said to be haunted by the spirit Annie Palmer, a murderous widow and plantation owner also known as the White Witch. Whether you believe in the macabre legend or not, a trip to this colonial manse turned museum is well worth the visit for architecture lovers or those who just like a good spooky story.

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Top things to do in jamaica, explore the green grotto caves.

On a Jamaica cruise, descend into the fascinating Green Grotto Caves, a network of underground passageways that are reportedly over five million years old. Located near the area where Christopher Columbus first stepped foot on the Caribbean island, the Green Grotto Caves are a stunning natural attraction full of breathtaking stalactites and stalagmites, light holes, and a crystal-clear grotto lake. Learn about the caves’ rich history and how the Arawaks used it as a refuge from the Spanish colonizers. Before you leave, make sure to stop by the mythical wishing well, where you’re encouraged to toss in a coin for good luck.

Hike Up Dunns River Falls

Hike up Dunns River Falls, one of Jamaica’s most popular natural attractions and one of the only travertine waterfalls in the world to fall directly into the sea. As you make your way up this 180-foot-high trail of spectacular waterfalls and springs, you’ll pass by captivating natural pools that make for the perfect spot for a refreshing dip in the water. At the end of the falls, you’ll arrive at Little Dunn’s River Beach, another Jamaican oasis where you can rest and relax under the sun.

Swim with Dolphins at Dolphin Cove

Embark on an experience of a lifetime by swimming with dolphins at Dolphin Cove. You can also snorkel with stingrays, learn more about the exotic birds, snakes, and iguanas that live in the neighboring jungle, or simply enjoy a leisurely afternoon at Dolphin Cove’s white sandy beach.

Top Food and Drink in Jamaica

Jamaican cuisine ranges from mild to wild, a result of its British, Spanish, and African influences. One of the staples for breakfast or lunch is saltfish with ackee, a fruit with the taste and texture of scrambled eggs. During your cruise to Jamaica, you must try the legendary flavor of jerk, a signature seasoning invented by runaway slaves which adds a distinctly Jamaican kick to chicken, lamb, pork, fish, and even veggies.

Culture and History of Jamaica

The original name of the island was Xaymaca, which means “land of wood and water.” After Christopher Columbus discovered Jamaica in 1494, the native Arawak people were displaced and the island was colonized and used by the Spanish mainly as a supply base for food and weapons. In 1655, the British attacked Jamaica, and Spain eventually surrendered the island to England.

Under English settlement, pirating was rampant. Buccaneers eventually took control of Port Royal, a town that was known at the time as the “wealthiest and wickedest city in the world.” Sugar exports grew exponentially, and in order to keep up with the demand, enslaved Africans were taken to the island against their will to work in the plantations. There were many slave rebellions and confrontations until 1808, when the Abolition Bill was passed and slavery was finally outlawed.

On August 6, 1962, Jamaica gained independence from England. Even though it is a small island in the Caribbean, Jamaican culture has a strong global influence, specifically in music. Local genres such as reggae, ska, dub, and dancehall are famous around the world.

Jamaica Port Facilities & Location

Cruises to Jamaica dock in the Falmouth cruise port, nestled in between the towns of Ocho Rios and Montego Bay. You’ll hear reggae music as soon as you step foot in port, a traditional welcome gesture by local musicians. Nearby, there are several historic attractions in the town of Falmouth, including the Armory at Fort Balcarres, the Glistening Waters Lagoon, and the Albert George Market.

Transportation in Jamaica

At the Falmouth cruise port, there are buses, minibuses, and route taxis ready to take visitors to the many natural attractions and beaches nearby. Keep an eye out for taxis with a JTB decal, which have been authorized by the Jamaica Tourist Board. When you book a shore excursion, transportation is included.

Shopping Near the Jamaica Cruise Port

As soon as you disembark from a cruise to Jamaica, you’ll be able to shop at the Falmouth cruise port and its selection of duty-free shops. There’s also a craft market in the center of the port where you’ll find handmade souvenirs, artifacts, and jewelry.

Local Currency & Tipping Customs

The official currency in Jamaica is the Jamaican Dollar, but United States Dollars are accepted in many tourist destinations. Credit cards and debit cards are also accepted in most tourist areas, but it’s always a good idea to have some local currency on hand. As for tipping, consider tipping anywhere from 15% to 20% for good service. Some places accept tips in both Jamaican and US dollars.

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We are natives who know every square inch of our island. We live here and market only Jamaica. These two factors allow us to really know our product, enabling us to perfect excursions in Jamaica to suit our clients needs.

We are sensitive to the needs of all our client groups – large or small. Spend the day with us doing a Jamaica excursion and we will take you and your family to Jamaica’s most enchanting locations in Ocho Rios, Falmouth, Montego Bay and Negril. We will ensure that your Jamaica excursions surpass your expectations and guarantee you a memorable experience.

All our Jamaica tours and excursions have been personally tried and tested by our team of professionals with all ages in mind, we have handpicked the best excursions in Jamaica and have experienced them first hand so we can offer a real Jamaican experience for all. There is an adventure for everyone. We work directly with tour operators in Ocho Rios, Falmouth, Montego Bay and on the south coast which allows you to get the best rates possible for your Jamaica excursions.

Jamaica shore excursions with cruise ship companies are significantly higher and overpriced. Guests are crammed into a large bus with strangers and are lead by an impersonal tour guide on a commercial excursion.

Our commitment to you is to offer you friendly, professional , prompt and efficient service, to share our wonderful Island and our valuable years of experience with you, our most valued clients and for you to have unforgettable excursions in Jamaica.

If you are staying in a Resort or Hotel, we can save you $$$ if you book with us!

In addition to providing tours for cruise ship passengers, we also offer private and customized tours for guest staying on Island in the Ocho Rios, Trelawny and Montego Bay areas.

You will be saving money as well as avoiding the crowds at overbooked impersonal tours booked from the Hotel tour desks. We promise a more personalized and enjoyable tour of Jamaica….our guides “AIM TO SATISFY”.  Book online  in advance and you will experience Jamaica at its best!

Latest Review

Re: blue hole, secret falls & dunn’s river falls excursion from ocho rios.

Sep 8, 2023 Good Afternoon Dwight, just wanted to thank you for all of your assistance answering my questions and assisting us in booking our airport transfers and excursions in Jamaica. Michael our driver was always on time and the perfect host. He met us at the airport and drove us through a pretty bad storm going to Ocho Rios. He was very helpful in assistance us at Blue Hole and Dunn’s River to get our tickets for entry and drive us safely back home. I would highly recommend him and his professionalism. We will definitely use your services on a return trip home….one love. Margaret A

Click here for Jamaica Airport Transfers

Explore our exciting & affordable excursions, ocho rios island tour packages.

• Dunn’s River Falls & Zip Line Adventure
• Dunn’s River Falls & River Tubing
• See More Packages…

Montego Bay Island Tour Packages

• Dunns River Falls
• Horseback Beach Ride

Falmouth Island Tour Packages

• Dunns River Falls & Zip Line Adventure

Negril Island Tour Packages

• Dunns River Falls from Negril
• Appleton Estate Rum Factory Tour

Grand Palladium Island Tour Packages

• Dunns River Falls & Bobsled Adventure

Reasons You Should Book Ahead

• You will know the exact budget before you arrive
• Our popular tours sell out fast!
• Your reservation will be guaranteed
• Confirmation of your reservation is conditioned to the availability of space

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DON’T BE DISAPPOINTED WITH OVERBOOKED, CROWDED, OVERPRICED SHORE EXCURSIONS BOOKED FROM THE CRUISE SHIPS.

• Montpelier Jungle Expedition
• Reggae Rafting at Lethe
• Seville Expedition
• White River Valley Jungle Expedition
• Zipline Over Dunn’s River Expedition
• Zipline Over YS Falls
• Eco-Adventure Park at Harrison’s Cave
• Ocean Outpost at Coconut Cove

• Eco-Adventure Park at Almond Hill Lagoon
• Bajari Beach Club
• Hotel Guests
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• Private Tours

Jamaica Shore Excursions

You may book directly with us if you’re coming on the following Cruise Ships (Arosa Blu, Celestyal Cruises, Celestyal Crystal, Europa 2, Marco Polo, Mein Schiff, Mein Schiff 4, Monarch, Thomson Dream).

We are ready to show you our islands. Plan the best shore excursion, with a guarantee of quality, for you, your friends and family. CHUKKA Adventures is an award-winning shore excursion partner with all major cruise lines.

Shore Excursions

Private Crystal Cave Tubing & Zipline With Lunch

Belize Cave Tubing with Lunch

Bubble Tour: Altun Ha Mayan Ruins

Altun Ha Mayan Ruins & Lunch

Buggy, Cave Tubing & ZipLine with Lunch

ATV, Cave Tubing & Zipline with Lunch

Rainforest Zip Line & Cave Tubing with Lunch

Airboat Adventure: Wetland & Mangrove Tour

Private Cave Tubing & Dry Cave Discovery with Lunch

Reef, Rays, Open Bar and Beach Break

Two Reef Snorkel Beach Break

Dune Buggy Island Exploration

Two Island Hop, Lunch and Open Bar

Stingray Encounter Kiss Snorkeling and Beach

Power Snorkel, Rays and Rum

Adventure Comb: Zip, Buggy, Snorkel

Catamaran, Sail, Snorkel and Private Beach

4×4 Jeep Safari and Hidden Waterfall

Family Adventure at Good Hope Estate

Chukka Kayak and Canopy Experience

Extreme Zipline Adventure

Horseback Ride and Swim

Ultimate Thrill Seeker

Jungle River Tubing Experience

ATV Buggy Adventure

ATV Adventure

Chukka Caribbean Adventures

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Excursions & Tours

Ocho Rios Exclusive Dunn's River Falls and River Tubing

Exclusive Dunn's River Falls

Ocho Rios Exclusive Dunn's Falls and Area Highlights

Blue Hole and Dunn's River Falls

Exclusive White River Rafting

Taste of Jamaica Farm Cookout

Countryside Sightseeing with Lunch

Countryside Sightseeing

Beach Horseback Ride and Tubing

Dolphin Encounter in Ocho Rios

Exclusive Bob Marley Reggae Tour

Green Grotto Caves

Exclusive Countryside and Falls

Bob Marley and Dunn's River Falls

Konoko Falls and Garden

Dunn's River Falls and Konoko Falls

Sun Valley Plantation

Dolphin Royal Swim in Ocho Rios

Blue Hole, Dunn's River Falls and Reggae

Rio Bueno Rapids Rafting

Dunn's River Falls and Reggae

Discover the Blue Hole

Dolphin Swim Adventure in Ocho Rios

Exclusive Trail and Beach Horseback

Exclusive Horseback and Falls

Blue Hole Adventure and Reggae

Dunn's River Falls, Blue Hole, and Reggae Hill Adventure from Ocho Rios

Dunn's River Zipline and Falls

Jungle River Tubing and Bamboo Beach Club from Ocho Rios

Ocho Rios Heritage and the Green Grotto Caves

Ocho Rios Rapids Kayaking

Ocho Rios Rapids Tubing

Private Ocho Rios Dunn's River Falls and Area Highlights

Ocho rios excursions and tours, unforgettable ocho rios excursions.

Join one of our Ocho Rios cruise excursions to explore this Caribbean port town located on Jamaica's beautiful north coast. Ocho Rios, which is Spanish for "Eight Rivers," was the first place where Christopher Columbus visited when traveling to the New World. Up until recently, Ocho Rios was primarily known as a fishing destination. However, thanks to its natural beauty and Caribbean island atmosphere, Ocho Rios has become one of the top sightseeing destinations in the whole Caribbean sea. Ocho Rios is also a short scenic drive to Nine Mile (home of the Bob Marley Museum), St. Ann's Bay, Fern Gully, Falmouth, and the resort hub Montego Bay.

We offer a wide variety of Ocho Rios, Jamaica, shore excursions to suit any traveler's activity level. Experience one of Jamaica's most popular attractions, the famous Dunn's River Falls, by way of a catamaran cruise. On your way there, you can enjoy some snorkeling to get you in the adventurous spirit. Once you arrive at the beautiful cascading waterfalls, you'll experience whitewater river rafting, kayaking, river tubing, and even horseback riding. For the more daring traveler, you can add to the excitement by climbing Dunn's River Falls and zip-lining over them.

Guided Tours for Nature Lovers

The Irie Blue Hole is another Ocho Rios popular attraction that you won't want to miss. This otherworldly attraction is a part swimming hole, part cascading waterfall, making it a peaceful half-day or full-day adventure. White River is another popular Ocho Rios destination that hosts river tubing and a unique river rafting experience aboard a bamboo raft. Bring your water shoes!

Mystic Mountain Rainforest Adventures provides a variety of Jamaican natural beauty sightseeing adventures. The Sky Explorer Chairlift offers a bird's eye view of Ocho Rios, making it the perfect opportunity to explore Jamaica's rainforest landscape. You can also hop on a bobsled ride to recreate the iconic 1988 Winter Olympic Games, which Jamaica competed in for the first time.

For nature lovers, we recommend our Konoko Falls and Garden excursion. If you dare to explore underground, check out our Green Grotto Caves excursion and learn more about their rich history. For a classic Caribbean adventure, our snorkeling excursions are sure to delight Jamaican travelers of all ages. We also offer dolphin swim and dolphin encounter excursions, as well as beach horseback riding opportunities for all the animal lovers out there

Bob Marley Nine Mile Tour

If you are looking for an Ocho Rios shore excursion beyond typical Jamaican sightseeing, we recommend the Bob Marley Reggae tour, which explores the life and times of Bob Marley, as well as reggae music's roots around Jamaica. This is a truly unique Jamaican cultural experience that you'll never forget.

Ocho Rios, Jamaica, is a gorgeous destination with a rich history. Whether you embark on a Caribbean cruise ship or choose a more adventurous route such as a zipline adventure, White River or Blue Hole excursion, our popular Ocho Rios tours are sure to satisfy any traveler. Don't forget to do some shopping at Island Village, a perfect combo of entertainment, retail stores, and restaurants. Try some delicious jerk chicken, or pick up a stingray souvenir all in one place! Shore Excursions also offers exciting excursions and tours in surrounding cities, like Kingston and Negril.

Browse some of our best Ocho Rios sightseeing excursions below!

Top Ocho Rios Attractions:

Note the following are sample tours and may not work with your itinerary. Find excursions for your cruise itinerary here .

• Exclusive Bob Marley Reggae Tour ($115.00)
• Exclusive Dunn's River Falls ($66.00)
• Ocho Rios Exclusive Dunn's River Falls and River Tubing ($99.00)
• Beach Horseback Ride and Tubing ($143.00)

Best Day Trip Excursions:

• Exclusive Countryside and Falls ($90.00)
• Exclusive Trail and Beach Horseback ($112.00)
• Exclusive Horseback and Falls ($143.00)

Fun Inland Trips:

• Ocho Rios Exclusive Dunn's Falls and Area Highlights ($68.00)
• Sun Valley Plantation ($79.00)

Top Water Adventures & Tours:

• Exclusive White River Rafting ($77.00)
• Catamaran Snorkel Cruise to Dunn's River ($119.00)
• Snorkeling ($62.00)
• Dolphin Encounter in Ocho Rios ($99.00)
• Dolphin Royal Swim in Ocho Rios ($195.00)
• Dolphin Swim Adventure in Ocho Rios ($149.00)

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Ocho Rios, Jamaica Excursions

Spanish for "Eight Rivers"  Ocho Rios is a scenic and peaceful port located on the northern end of Jamaica. This Jamaican point of interest provides stunning views of the island's sandy white beaches and lush mountain forests along with tight-knit local communities.

If you're ready to enjoy some of the Caribbean's finest food, an incredible reggae music scene, beautiful seaside landscapes and the laid-back comfort of island life, then don't hesitate to take an Ocho Rios excursion during your Panama Canal cruise with Princess Cruises.

Dunn's River Falls

One of Jamaica's most beloved natural treasures, Dunn's River Falls is a stunning 600-foot waterfall located just outside of Ocho Rios. Even more amazing is that the Dunn's River is one of the only rivers that empties directly into the Caribbean Sea, making the waterfall an immensely popular destination for beach-goers visiting Jamaica.

You may also recognize the area around the Jamaican point of interest from the classic James Bond movie, Dr. No . The filmmakers were instantly drawn to the natural beauty of the region when searching for a Caribbean shooting destination. The waters around the falls were used in the movie's infamous scene of Bond girl Ursula Andress walking out of the sea.

Mystic Mountain

If you're interested in getting away from the shore to explore inland Jamaica, be sure to stop at Mystic Mountain. This 700-foot peak, located in the tropical forests surrounding Ocho Rios, is a tourist hotspot and features a range of family-friendly attractions and adventures.

Perhaps one of the most popular activities on Mystic Mountain is Rainforest Bobsled Jamaica, a 1,000 meter downhill ride on high-tech bobsleds that recall the historic Jamaican Olympic bobsled team. During an Ocho Rios excursion, you can also tear through the forest trees by zip-line, providing a bird's-eye view of the rainforest canopy while gliding between various treetop platforms. And if you're looking for an effortless way to tour the area, simply hop aboard the Sky Explorer chairlift ride.

Dolphin Encounter

Animal lovers who want a close-up hangout with some of Jamaica's friendliest sea creatures should experience Ocho Rios' Dolphin Encounter. Located at the shores of Dolphin Cove, this incredible opportunity will have you face-to-face with a bevy of cheerful bottlenose dolphins. You'll receive tips on dolphin-handling from an aquatic animal expert while also learning about training secrets and other fun facts about these ocean mammals. And if you're looking for a break from the bottlenoses for a second, you can feel free to check out Dolphin Cove's other exciting aquatic attractions and activities.

Ocho Rios excursions take you into the middle of a bubbly Caribbean destination with a variety of natural wonders, ocean-themed activities and Jamaican cultural staples for you and your whole family to enjoy! Learn about attractions like Dunn's River Fall, Dolphin Encounter, Mystic Mountain and other tropical destinations you'll encounter on a Panama Canal cruise from Princess Cruises. View Caribbean cruises .

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Crazy Chris

Private catamaran tour for our group was really nice for the guys we had a nice time, my church group will be coming in October 2020 I have told them about your Catamaran cruise think they will be about 40 persons will be in contact

Perfect Snorkeling tour in Montego bay from our ship in Falmouth the kids luvd it !

Scuba Diving in Jamaica for the first time will definitely recommend your company to others visiting for s dive

Awesome time with you guys on our Honeymoon cruise to Falmouth great watersports we did Parasailing plus Jetski awesome!

The private van was the way to go for us to get to the blue hole falls we are a party or 8 and wanted to do something away from traveling with others. our driver was on time and very informative had a great time at the secret falls and was able to catch lunch at scotchies

Best Choice with our private Van taxi, glad we choose to use this company will be back next year!

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Falmouth Jamaica is Open. Now you can have your Private customshore excursions from us as we served you before the global pandemic Dismiss

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Featuring Secret Falls / Blue Hole

Our new and adventurous attaction Secret Falls Blue Hole is the # one thing to do in Ocho Rios. You will be disoppointed if you miss out on this attraction. You can Customize your Secret Falls Blue Hole attraction with any one of our Ocho Rios highlight tours like: River Tubing, Dunn's River Falls, River Rafting, Dolphin, Mystic Zipline, Bobsled, Sky-explorer, Turtle River Falls-Garden, Horse Back Riding, along with Sightseeing tours.

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We extent our professional service to resorts like: Riu Palace,Montego Bay, Ocho Rios, Negril, Holiday Inn, Hyatt Ziva, Zilara, Hilton Rose Hall, Grand Palladium Lady Hamilton, Sunscape Splash, Secret St James, Wild Orchid, Sandals, Royal Decameron, Royalton White Sands, Moon Palace Jamaica Grande, Iberostar Rose Hall Beach, Grand, Suites

Falmouth Shore Excursion Reviews

Popular Things to Do in Falmouth

Falmouth is home to Jamaica's newest cruise port, a purpose-built facility that has allowed the island to accommodate more cruisers at any given time. The cruise terminal is located between the popular destinations of Ocho Rios and Montego Bay, which makes it an excellent base for enjoying shore excursions to other parts of Jamaica. Falmouth does have some of its own sights and attractions that are well worth a visit. In the area around the cruise port, passengers will find shopping and quick, familiar dining options, but anyone who ventures beyond will find some truly special places like the Falmouth Court House and St. Peter's Anglican Church.

The weather in Falmouth is hot and humid year-round, but the most popular time to visit is during the winter months when there's less rain and hurricanes aren't a threat. The Jamaican dollar is the official currency, though most vendors also accept U.S. dollars. The official language is English; however, locals typically speak with a heavy accent and use a unique patois when speaking among themselves.

Find Things to Do in Falmouth on Viator

Falmouth cruise tips, activities, and overview, food and drink in falmouth.

If you're looking to sample authentic Jamaican food, Falmouth makes up for what it lacks in quantity of restaurants with a few solid, authentic options. Don't miss the chance to sample the jerk style of cooking, a Jamaican staple. Meats or fish are marinated with dry or wet rubs made of a concoction of spices that might include allspice, sugar and scotch bonnet peppers, then cooked over wood coals. The Jamaican national dish -- saltfish and ackee -- is lesser known by non-locals, but is delicious. Salted cod is boiled and softened, then sauteed with ackee fruit, garlic, onions and spices.

While Falmouth has no central dining district, you'll find several snack stalls and restaurants within a 10-minute walk from the port. Stalls typically sell patties -- empanada-like pastries filled with sauced meats or vegetables. Quench your thirst with the Jamaican grapefruit-flavored soft drink, the zingily-named Ting.

Club Nazz: The best of downtown Falmouth is located in a historic tavern with wooden bar, comfy booth and a breezy rooftop terrace, offering views of the ships and town. Tuck into authentic Jamaican eats alongside locals. You won't go wrong with its saltfish ackee, curried goat, unleavened "bammy" bread (made from cassava fruit) and popular oxtail soup. The bar does strong cocktails, too. (23 Market Street; 876-617-5175; open daily from 8 a.m. to 11 p.m.)

Pepper's Jerk Center: No frills but festive, Peppers serves flavorful jerk, washed down with Red Stripe. Try the pork or lobster jerk. (20 Duke Street; 876-385-7512; Monday through Thursday and Saturday, 10 a.m. to 11 p.m., Friday, 10 a.m. to 4 a.m. Friday, closed Sunday)

Jimmy Buffett's Margaritaville: Yes, it's a chain, and yes, the food is not the star attraction. But this outpost yards from your cruise ship boasts a pool with swim-up bar, a mini version of Jamaica's Dunn's River Falls, and a green hot tub in the shape of the bowl of a margarita glass. Music blasts. Servers organize merriment. For many cruisers, it's a tropical excursion without the hassle, and cheaper, too. The Wi-Fi is free, if you can get on the network when it's crowded. And the "Volcano Nachos" plates are humongous. (Historic Falmouth Cruise Port; 876-631-1031; open 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. when ships are in port)

Good Hope Great House: Meals at this former plantation house about eight miles from Falmouth might feature escovitched kingfish (marinated in vinegar and spices, then lightly fried), roast breadfruit, boiled yams and key lime pie for dessert. Non-Jamaican choices include salads and quesadillas. Your best bet is to book through CHUKKA Carribbean or your cruise line. (Trelawny, Jamaica; 877-424-8552; open daily for breakfast, lunch and dinner)

Best Cocktail in Falmouth

Club Nazz, housed in a historic tavern at 23 Market Street just a 10-minute stroll from the port, makes one of the finest rum punches we've ever tasted. It combines Jamaican Appleton Estate rum with grenadine, bitters and pineapple juice. Prefer to tipple at the port? Try Jimmy Buffett's Margaritaville drink special of the day or a frosty Jamaican Red Stripe beer.

Beaches in Falmouth

There are a few beautiful beaches (such as Red Stripe) within a short taxi ride of the Falmouth port, but the facilities are fairly simple. (Taxi fares may be in the $20 round-trip range.) Ask the port information desk for suggestions to meet your needs, or sign up onboard for a day on the sand, with lunch, at a nearby resort.

Best Secluded Beach: Burwood Beach, a few miles from Falmouth, has quiet stretches to spread your beach towel. It lacks public restrooms, but is within walking distance to hotel facilities.

Best Party Beach: The roughly 650-feet stretch of sand at Doctor's Cave Beach Club in Montego Bay can get crowded, but it's the best place to tip a few Red Stripes and relax on the sand in MoBay. The beach is on the "Hip Strip," and you'll pay an entry fee unless you've booked a tour that includes a stop here. There are showers, food, chairs, umbrellas and snorkel equipment for rent. Trampolines out in the water beckon kids of all ages for a bounce, and locals claim the waters here have healing powers. The Montego Bay Margaritaville is a short stroll away. If you go it alone, it's a 30-minute taxi ride from Falmouth.

Best Active Beach: About 10 minutes by taxi, east of the Falmouth port, the private beach at Bounty Bay is a popular kite-surfing spot; a small admission fee is charged if you spend the day there.

Best for a day visit: If you have at least eight hours onshore and wish to see a spectacular beach, Negril's the spot. This world-famous, 7-mile-long stretch of white sand is about two hours from the port by bus or taxi and features beach bars and cliff divers. Book an excursion or hire a driver.

Don't Miss in Falmouth

Falmouth Court House: One of the first buildings you're likely to see as you walk into town, Falmouth's courthouse dates to 1815, was destroyed by a fire in the 1920s, and has been rebuilt and renovated, putting a spotlight on well-preserved Georgian features like fanlights, shingled walls and jalousies. While tours aren't offered, architecture buffs will find it well worth walking past to admire from the outside.

St. Peter's Anglican Church: Built in 1795 with columns of thick mahogany and beautiful brick and stonework, this is the oldest public building in Falmouth. Visitors are welcome inside, and services are held on Sundays. The cemetery has graves dating back more than two centuries.

Rafting on the Martha Brae River: Near Falmouth, passengers can board a 30-foot-long bamboo raft for a three-mile float down one of Jamaica's prettiest rivers. The relaxing journey takes about 90 minutes, and your raft captain will let you try your hand at steering with the long bamboo pole if you're so inclined. Book a tour or hire a taxi to take you to the put-in spot, where there will be plenty of "captains" looking to chart your course.

Good Hope Great House and Estate Park: This well-preserved manse on a former sugar plantation was the home of planter John Tharp, who once owned much of Falmouth's waterfront. About 15 minutes from the port, in the lush interior, the Good Hope Great House dates to the 18th century and sits on 2,000 acres. In addition to estate tours and attractive lunch offerings, the property hosts activities that range from horse-and-buggy tours to dune buggy safaris and river-tubing along the Martha Brae River, which cuts through the property. There also are zip-line tours through the jungle canopy and ATV rides. You can book shore excursions on your ship, or plan a see-it-yourself tour by booking at a kiosk in the port. Alternatively, you can book a taxi on your own and then decide which activities you'd like to experience. Lunches and high tea, however, must be booked in advance through your ship's shore excursion department.

Dunn's River Falls: It takes about an hour by taxi or tour bus/van to get from Falmouth to these most famous of Jamaica's falls near Ocho Rios, where you can climb 600 feet up from the base or retreat to the beach where the rushing water exits into the ocean. Note: It can be slippery, so is not for the faint of heart.

Mystic Mountain: Also in Ocho Rios, Mystic Mountain is a rainforest adventure park that's great for kids and adults, and is home to some very unique outdoor activities. You've got to try the Bobsled Jamaica ride, the Canopy Zip Line tour, or a twisty slide that ends up in the mountaintop swimming pool. Have lunch and take in the view from Lookout Tower before making your way back down the mountain on a chairlift.

Montego Bay's "Hip Strip": Hire a taxi for the 30-minute ride to Montego Bay, and enjoy a stroll along the Hip Strip (also known as Gloucester Avenue), past bars and shops in MoBay's tourist district, which fronts the beach. You can also do some duty-free shopping at City Centre, a shopping area that stretches along one block downtown; there, you'll find gold, timepieces, perfumes, crystal, leather goods, souvenirs and boutique clothing. Beach lovers headed to Montego will want to visit Doctor's Cave Beach Club near the Hip Strip.

Great Houses of Montego Bay: Tour the great houses near Montego Bay, including the magnificently restored 1760 Rose Hall Great House, Jamaica's most famed former plantation house. It's said to be haunted by the ghost of Annie Palmer, also known as "The White Witch."

Bob Marley Birthplace: A 5.5-hour bus tour will take you along Jamaica's coast and then inland to Nine Mile, where the reggae legend was born and is buried in a mausoleum. Stop for a lunch of jerk pork and chicken plus the traditional Jamaican side dish of rice and peas.

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Shore Excursion Details

Best of ocho rios, ocho rios, jamaica.

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• 5 hrs Estimate Duration

This tour takes you to an unforgettable collection of beautiful spots in and around Ocho Rios. You’ll visit the island’s premier attraction, Dunn’s River Falls. It’s a place of unique beauty where the river cascades over a giant limestone staircase to a white sand beach and the warm Caribbean Sea.

Take a guided tour of Konoko Falls and Park, where you’ll be at one with nature and inspired by its natural beauty. Your tour will lead you through the expansive grounds where many photo opportunities await. See the sparkling koi fishponds, natural springs, indigenous birds, animals and its soothing signature waterfall. Visit the small museum that showcases artifacts throughout Jamaica's history.

Discover the lush vegetation of ferns and gigantic trees that form canopies over the roadway on your drive through Fern Gully. A final stop is made in the town for shopping before returning to the ship.

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Scenic & City Tours

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• 3 Challenging

Avoid these 10 mistakes when booking cruise shore excursions

C ruise lines offer shore excursions for your convenience. Instead of spending hours reading up on a port, crafting the perfect eight-hour activity schedule or researching local tour guides, you can simply choose from a list of curated tour options. Easy peasy ... except you can still screw it up.

If you want the perfect day in port, you need to be savvy about your tour planning. Avoid rookie mistakes, and never do these 10 things when booking shore excursions for your next cruise.

For cruise news, reviews and tips, sign up for TPG's cruise newsletter .

Don't skip the destination research

Cruise line shore excursions try to cover the most popular sights and attractions in a destination, but your ship might not offer a tour to every interesting spot in or near the port. If you don't do your own destination research and only make your tour decisions based on what the cruise line is offering, you might miss out on an activity you'd enjoy more.

Take the time to do some independent sleuthing for each port on your itinerary before deciding how to spend your limited, precious time ashore. Perhaps you'd prefer a local hike you can do on your own, a religious site that's especially meaningful to you, or an attraction or tour that relates to one of your specific hobbies or interests.

Related: Tips and tricks to make your first cruise go smoothly

Don't ignore the reviews

Can you tell the difference between an overcrowded tourist trap and a fabulous site from the shore excursion description? I can't, and neither can anyone else. The marketing copy is designed to sell the tour.

Read what other travelers have to say about a specific excursion or attraction before plunking down your money and signing up for that tour. You don't even need to seek out a third-party site. Some cruise lines have shore excursion reviews right on their websites.

Don't gloss over the fine print

Cruise lines provide a lot of details about a shore excursion, from how long it lasts to how much physical activity is involved and how you'll be exploring. Yet so many cruisers don't bother to read the full description or the fine print. If you skip this step, you won't realize that the bus tour only passes by, rather than stops at, a famous cathedral or museum. Or, you might miss a note explaining that there's no free time or food included.

I went on a tour in Cagliari, Sardinia, sold as a long morning of walking on cobblestoned streets. One elderly passenger, struggling and out of breath, turned to me and said, "I had no idea this tour would involve so much walking!" I had to bite my tongue. Who would have guessed that about a tour called "Exploring Cagliari On Foot?"

If you want to know exactly what you're booking, take the time to read the complete description.

Related: 11 extra charges on cruise ships that will drive you nuts

Don't neglect the independent option

Cruise line tours are convenient, but they're not always the most customizable or economical options. If you're traveling as a family or with a group of friends, you might be better off hiring your own guide for the day. Not only could it be less expensive than five or six shore excursion tickets, but you'll also be able to create a tour based on your interests.

Even couples traveling alone might find more affordable group tours offered by independent operators or tour options not offered by the cruise line. Online message boards and Facebook groups can be great resources for finding other travelers on your cruise ship interested in joining you on a private tour.

Don't book your excursions too late

Not all shore excursions are large group bus tours with multiple departures. Boat trips and cycling tours might have caps on the number of participants, and some tour times are more popular than others. In some ports, cruise lines might arrange a special experience — such as Cognac blending or pasta making — that is meant for a small group.

If you have your heart set on a particular tour, don't assume it will have space available if you wait to book until you board your cruise ship. Look over the shore excursion options in advance, and be ready to reserve your spot online as soon as they open for booking. If not, you risk losing out on the opportunity to have that cool once-in-a-lifetime experience, such as salmon fishing in Alaska or wagyu sampling in Japan.

Related: What can you do if your cruise cancels port calls?

Don't ignore your personal limitations

Easily carsick? Hawaii's winding Road to Hana is not for you. Not physically fit? Skip the hiking and biking tours, no matter how fun they sound. Usually the first to get seasick? A catamaran ride is the wrong choice.

Don't let the romance of a tour description convince you to overlook your physical limitations. Overdo it, and you'll waste a vacation day feeling miserable — or, worse, end up with an injury. No beautiful waterfall or ancient ruin is worth that.

Don't assume you need an organized tour

Don't feel compelled to take a tour just because one is offered. Plenty of ports don't require a shore excursion. Some — like St. Tropez or Mykonos — are truly lovely places to wander, get lost in the shop-lined streets and end up at an alfresco restaurant for a long, wine-soaked lunch.

Just be sure to read up on the area around the dock so that you know whether you'll be pulling right up to the center of the action or if sightseeing on your own requires a shuttle or a cab. Grab a tourist map, or use a map app on your phone so you don't get lost.

Related: 16 things you shouldn't leave a cruise ship without trying once

Don't go-go-go all day, every day

In a misguided attempt to maximize their vacation time, some cruise travelers make a point to book all-day tours on every port day, exhausting themselves with endless sightseeing or active endeavors in the hot Caribbean sun. Especially on port-intensive itineraries, this can lead to excursion burnout.

Your best vacation is made up of activities that make you happy. When you're in the sun-drenched Caribbean , it's perfectly OK to skip the waterfall hike or the visit to a rum distillery and book a resort pass to spend the day on a cushy lounge chair by a quiet pool, frozen drink in hand.

Don't cancel at the last minute

Most cruise lines allow you to cancel your shore excursion plans with a certain amount of notice. You can take advantage of that flexibility by booking tours early to reserve a spot and canceling if you find a more interesting private tour or decide that you'd rather have a day to wander on your own.

If you don't want to forfeit the price of the tour, however, you need to cancel in advance, usually one or two days before that port of call. If you contact the shore excursion desk that morning to say you're not feeling well and want to skip out, you'll still get charged on your final cruise bill.

Related: 15 ways the cruising newbies waste money on their first cruise

Don't be penny-wise and pound-foolish

If you came all this way on a cruise to see the local sights, don't let the cost of exploring limit that experience. Staying on the ship — or wandering the sometimes-sad area right by a port — is no way to get good value from your cruise vacation.

Budget wisely for in-port exploration when you plan your sailing so you can experience the attractions and activities that sold you on the destination in the first place. If you have to, skip that massage or cocktail — things you can easily get back home — in order to afford a couple of excursions. After all, who knows when you'll be back in that part of the world again?

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These amazing shore excursions will make you want to book a cruise

From a private concert in Venice to an Arctic hike with an adventure photographer, be inspired by these unique shore excursions

But more often than not, the real highlights of your cruise will be the shore excursions, when you dock in hard-to-reach parts of the coast or sail into historic port towns to discover the local culture and history.

But what are shore excursions and how can you make sure you're getting the most out of them on your cruise?

What is a shore excursion?

Put simply, shore excursions are the activities you enjoy in the ports you dock in during your cruise .

While there might be activities to get involved with on board, depending on your cruise line, the most memorable days will be those spent exploring the cities, towns, and natural landscapes you're sailing to.

The nature of these excursions will vary depending on your destination and the cruise line you're travelling with.

Some itineraries include plenty of free time to explore different ports at your own pace (like Good Housekeeping's 15-day Caribbean and Antilles cruise ), while others involve a full schedule of included activities with expert local hosts.

Are shore excursions worth it?

Whether it's worth booking a cruise with a lot of cruise excursions will depend on what you want from your holiday.

Shore excursions are best for those who want to learn about a destination's history, culture, architecture, and cuisine . If you're looking for pure and simple relaxation, a cruise with plenty of free time to sunbathe on rooftop decks and swim in clear ocean waters might be more your cup of tea.

For those who want to delve into the culture of the destinations they're visiting, shore excursions are a highlight.

They're never compulsory, so if you want to spend a day relaxing on board or exploring independently, that's always an option. But some shore excursions really are too good to miss.

One of the best things about these activities is that you don't have to spend too much time researching the best tour guides, navigating local transport, and buying tickets for local attractions.

The best shore excursions handle all this for you, so you just need to turn up on time and enjoy your day in the safe hands of expert guides.

Which cruise lines have the best shore excursions?

Most major cruise lines offer a good range of shore excursions, sometimes included in the cost of your cruise, and sometimes at a supplement.

Princess has won awards for their shore excursions and partners with local experts to create authentic experiences with first-hand insights. How about tasting local honey and cheeses with the owner of a countryside retreat in Auckland? Or taking in the local craft beer scene in Tallinn with a master brewer?

Silversea is another line with a great selection of activities to choose from. It offers a special Silver Shore Concierge, with personalised planning for independent on-shore experiences.

Uniworld is another line that has created some fabulous cruise excursions that you won't find anywhere else. Due to its small ship size , Uniworld is now the only luxury cruise line to sail through the heart of Venice .

Once there, you can enjoy special shore excursions like visiting the famous Rialto market and exploring St Mark's Basilica after hours to see an atmospheric lighting ceremony.

What are the best shore excursions?

Just as there are various types of cruise — from boutique river cruises to epic expedition voyages — there are also many different kinds of shore excursion, from authentic foodie experiences to archaeological tours.

The best ones are those that allow you to discover the true essence of a destination in a way that suits you. Our advice is to take your time to choose the right cruise line, do your research, and pick a sailing with activities that most appeal to you.

To help get your research kick-started, we've rounded up some of the best shore excursions available from Good Housekeeping Holidays' cruises, with wine tastings in sunny vineyards along the Douro and market visits with celebrity chefs part of our exclusive offering.

Visit Torcello's ancient basilica with an art historian

There's so much to discover on a cruise around the Venetian Lagoon, from St Mark's Basilica and Doge's Palace, to hidden gems around Venice and the lagoon's islands.

One of our favourite shore excursions on our upcoming Venetian cruise is a visit to the island Torcello's famous basilica of Santa Maria Assunta. You'll have exclusive access before doors open to the public to see the stunning 11th-century mosaic of the Last Judgment without the crowds and with the company of an expert art historian. Situated in the north of the lagoon, Torcello is an excellent place to escape the city crowds and find peace from Venice.

And back on board the Uniworld ship, you can look forward to an exclusive event with top chef James Martin, who will host a talk, Q&A and book signing, as well as craft and cook a mouthwatering gala dinner one evening.

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Taste some of the Douro Valley's best wines at the Quinta da Roeda estate

A cruise along Portugal's Douro River Valley is all about the wine. This world-famous valley holds UNESCO status and is the world's very first demarcated wine region. It's famous for its full-bodied, sweet port wines, as well as several non-fortified varieties.

On Good Housekeeping's Douro cruise you'll have several chances to taste these mouthwatering wines. A highlight is a stop to taste some of the region’s famous ports at the Quinta da Roeda estate, near Pinhão. You'll take a guided tour of the estate and see its extensive terraced vineyard that sweeps the north bank of the Douro before tasting the excellent Croft Port, which is produced here.

See Russell Watson perform at an exclusive concert in Venice

While many shore excursions are about discovering a location's most intriguing landmarks and landscapes, some cruises offer exclusive, on-shore events to make your cruise that bit more special.

As part of Good Housekeeping's cruise of the Veneto lagoon, for example, you'll enjoy an exclusive evening with Russell Watson, one of the UK's best-loved classical artists.

For lovers of opera, shore excursions hardly get better than this. The virtuoso tenor will perform an intimate concert to an audience of around 125 guests at an amazing venue in the heart of Venice. He'll also give an exclusive talk, and you'll have the chance to get a complimentary CD signed by the man himself.

Hike to Norway's Briksdal Glacier with a local geologist

The best Norway cruises are all about nature, with shore excursions that allow you to get up close and personal with the stunning natural landscapes found along the country's coast and on the banks of its exquisite fjords.

Good Housekeeping's Norway cruise is packed with a whole host of wonderful shore excursions, but a real highlight will be the opportunity to hike up to the Briksdal Glacier with a local geologist.

Briksdal was formed thousands of years ago and an expert guide will tell you more about this glacier and others like it in the region. While still breathtaking, Briksdal has retreated around 859m in the last century, a stark reminder of the effects of climate change.

Take a walk along Norway's Arctic coast with an adventure photographer

Another brilliant chance to immerse yourself in Norway's nature comes on an exclusive cruise with a very special guest - research diver and cameraman scientist Doug Allan, who has worked on David Attenborough's Blue Planet. Doug has won seven Emmys and five BAFTAs, and has twice won the underwater category in the Wildlife Photographer of the Year.

There are lots of shore excursions to look forward to on this cruise, but a highlight for budding nature photographers will be an Arctic Coastal walk with Doug, who'll share his expertise and insights and help you capture these unique landscapes on camera.

The cruise departs at exactly the right time of year to spot the incredible Northern Lights , too, so you might get the chance to snap a showstopper pic of this otherworldly phenomenon.

See Vienna's famous Lipizzaner horses in training with Lucy Worsley

Vienna is packed to the brim with culture, from classical music venues where Mozart once played, to baroque palaces, beautifully-tended gardens and grand coffee houses. The city is also home to the Spanish Riding School, where beautiful Lipizzaner horses have been trained to perform a special equine dance for hundreds of years.

On Good Housekeeping's Danube cruise you'll make an exclusive visit to the Royal Lipizzaner Stables with historian Lucy Worsley, where you'll get a fascinating insight into the training work of the riders and their beautiful Lipizzaner stallions.

On arrival, you'll enjoy an aperitif and an introductory talk before seeing the training of the young stallions in the imperial atmosphere of the baroque winter riding school, accompanied by classical Viennese music.

Visit a food market in Kalna with Atul Kochhar on a cruise of India

Any India cruise is bound to include plenty of opportunities to savour the country's delicious cuisine. Good Housekeeping's cruise along the Ganges is no exception. You'll be joined by a special guest, top chef Atul Kochhar, who'll give a talk and Q&A about his illustrious career, from winning his first Michelin star at Tamarind in London to opening his own restaurant, Benares, which won him his second.

Look forward to a brilliant shore excursion with Atul; a visit to a colourful market in Kalna, where you can pick up some fragrant spices and wonderful souvenirs. Atul will give an insight into some of the ingredients available here and take some back to the ship for a cooking demonstration later in the day, where he'll share his passion for Indian cuisine.

See the fascinating temples of Angkor Wat in Cambodia

The Mekong River has so many archeological gems, ancient religious sites, and vibrant cities along its banks that you'll be spoilt for choice when it comes to shore excursions. But if we had to choose a favourite on our epic 17-day cruise through Vietnam and Cambodia, it might be a visit to Cambodia's vast temple complex of Angkor Wat in Siem Reap.

This is the world's largest religious building, and it's scale is simply jaw-dropping, covering an incredible 400 km2. The temples were originally built as a Hindu temple dedicated to the god Vishnu, but over time has become used as a site of worship for Buddhist monks and nuns. Explore this fascinating UNESCO World Heritage Site with an English speaking guide on our bucket-list Mekong cruise.

Learn about traditional Ainu culture on Japan's Hokkaido island

One of the best things about shore excursions is that they can help you learn about the diverse indigenous cultures of the places you're visiting. For example, many Japan cruises will take you to Hokkaido, where you can get to know the ancient Ainu culture and explore the sprawling wilderness of the country's northernmost island.

Hokkaido is the only spot among Japan's main islands where a non-Japanese indigenous culture has survived as an important identity. On Good Housekeeping's Japan cruise, you'll enjoy a shore excursion to see the cornerstones of Ainu culture, like beautiful attush robes, traditional dances, and a distinct cuisine.

The Ainu are also famous for their crafts, which you'll see all over Hokkaido, from intricate wood carvings to colourful embroidery with symmetrical patterns.

See the prettiest Christmas markets along the Rhine

As far as festive cruise excursions go, you can hardly beat a trip to a traditional European Christmas market. On a cruise along the Rhine, you can tick several off your wish list in one go, perhaps picking up some unique Christmas gifts as you go.

That's exactly what you'll do on Good Housekeeping's cruise along the Rhine in early December. There are several market visits to look forward to, but one of the highlights is bound to be a visit to the enchanting Mainz Christmas Market.

This is one of the oldest cities in Germany, and its historic festive market is located on the Domplatz, with chalet stalls adorned with twinkling fairy lights set against a backdrop of the illuminated Mainz Cathedral.

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