Tag: CRUISE TRAVEL

5 Things to Do Near the Ketchikan Cruise Port

Post author By Elle MacRae
Post date December 30, 2020
No Comments on 5 Things to Do Near the Ketchikan Cruise Port

Things to Do Near the Ketchikan Cruise Port– Let me start by saying, Ketchikan was one of our favorite places we stopped on our Alaskan cruise. As soon as I opened the curtains leading to our balcony, it was love at first sight. Let me tell you, Ketchikan did not disappoint. The adorable little fishing town is charming and full of great things to do.

Ketchikan, known as Alaska’s “first city”, due to its location at the southernmost entrance of the Inside Passage. This makes Ketchikan a popular stop on most Alaskan cruises.

In addition to Ketchikan, we visited Juneau, Skagway, and Victoria, British Columbia. We also sailed through the Endicott Arm to the Dawes Glacier.

Should I book an excursion in Ketchikan?

Firstly, there are so many great excursions available in Ketchikan, but Alaskan excursions are expensive. If you are on a budget, you can easily experience all of the best Ketchikan has to offer without booking an excursion. There are plenty of things to do near the Ketchikan Cruise Port. We had a chance to explore the Salmon Capital on foot and really enjoyed ourselves.

While we were in Ketchikan we did the Orca Beach Nature Trail which took us to an island where we had a chance to hike and become at one with nature. During our trip, we saw whales, porpoises, countless eagles, and tons of other wildlife (including a slug that I managed to kiss…)

5 Things to Do Near the Ketchikan Cruise Port

Note: We suggest grabbing a map at the Visitors Center. The map includes 35 points of interest. The entire loop around downtown will take you at least an hour to do.

“The Rock” Bronze Statue, Downtown Ketchikan

Creek Street

The #1 thing to do in Ketchikan is to take a stroll down Creek Street. Ketchikan is the salmon capital of the world, and this is the perfect place to spot the salmon swim upstream to spawn. Believe it or not, this is the former red light district. Locals say this is where “both men and salmon came upstream to spawn”.

Creek Street is about a 10-15 minute leisurely stroll from the cruise port. Signs are posted that will lead you through the town to this popular spot. If you don’t want to risk getting lost, you can stop by the Visitors Center to grab a walking tour map.

Stroll Through Downtown

Downtown is home to many shops, bars, and restaurants. There are also lots of really cool totem poles that are scattered throughout the town. If you want to learn more about the totems, you can stop by the Totem Pole Heritage Center.

Walk and Shop at the Boardwalk

The historic boardwalk is a living postcard. It is dotted with colorful shops where you can pick up souvenirs, sample some of the local salmon, and grab a beer. Be sure to peer over the railings to look for salmon!

Sample the Local Cuisine

There are plenty of great restaurants in town. Grab some fish and chips, freshly caught crab and fish at one of the portside restaurants.

Take a Hike

Believe it or not, there are some pretty rad hiking trails near the port. The Deer Mountain Trail, in particular, offers panoramic views of Ketchikan. Word on the street is that this is one of the best hiking trails in the Frontier State! The trail takes between 3 to 5 hours to complete, so make sure you have plenty of time before trying to tackle it.

While You’re in Ketchikan

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Tags ALASKA, CRUISE, CRUISE TRAVEL, KETCHIKAN, UNITED STATES

Caribbean National Parks, Monuments, and Seashores St. John USVI

The Annaberg Sugar Plantation: St. John, USVI

Post author By Elle MacRae
Post date December 19, 2020
1 Comment on The Annaberg Sugar Plantation: St. John, USVI

At its prime, the Annaberg Sugar Plantation was one of the top sugar-producing factories on the island of St. John. St. John is located in what is now known as the US Virgin Islands. Today, all that remains of the plantation are the ruins of a windmill, slave cabins, and a handful of other buildings made from coral. Not only are the grounds and ruins beautiful, but the views are too! It’s so hard to believe that this paradise once brought people so much pain.

The View from Annaberg Sugar Plantation, St. John, USVI

Go and see the ruins but stay for the views. Tortola appears so close that you can almost touch it! Looking out from Annaberg, you can see Leinster Bay, the Sir Frances Drake Channel, and a few other British Virgin Islands.

The History of Slavery in St. John

In 1717, 20 Danish planters came over from St. Thomas to settle and begin developing the area. Slaves grew sugar cane, cotton, and other crops. Sadly, by 1733 there were 109 plantations on the island.

In 1733, the slaves of St. John started a rebellion. Armed with cane knives (similar to machetes) they stormed Fort Frederiksvaern. After killing 5 of the 6 Danish soldiers at the fort, they fired the cannon signaling a six-month revolt. The revolt ended when French troops came over from Martinique. The slaves died by suicide before the French forces reached them.

At the height of the slave era, there were more than 2,604 slaves on the 19-square-mile island. When Denmark emancipated slaves in 1848, the plantations were abandoned.

The History of Annaberg Sugar Plantation

Way back in 1780, Annaberg Sugar Plantation was one of 25 sugar-producing factories on the island of St. John. The plantation, which encompassed 518 acres, also produced molasses and rum. Not surprisingly, slave labor was used to plant, harvest, and process sugar cane. The island wasn’t the ideal location for agriculture; the hills were too steep, and the soil was thin and rocky. Slaves worked painstakingly to terrace the slopes of the property so they could be farmed.

Annaberg Sugar Plantation Windmill Ruins, St. John, USVI

The windmill is one of the focal points of the site. It was built between 1810 and 1830 and stood 38 feet high, making it one of the largest on the islands. At times, when there was no wind, horses or mules were used to work the mill. Slaves would pass sugar cane stalk through the rollers and a box at the bottom caught the juice. The mill could produce between 300 and 500 gallons of juice each hour.

Next, the juice was then boiled to remove excess water until it became concentrated through heating and evaporation. Lastly, the juice was then placed into a box to crystalize.

Eventually, when slavery was abolished in 1848, the plantation was divided into smaller farms.

Annaberg Sugar Plantation Ruins, St. John, USVI

The Annaberg Sugar Plantation Today

Today, the plantation ruins are protected by the Virgin Islands National Park and are open to the public. Trees now stand where the terraces that were carved into the hillsides once were. There is a trail that leads through factory ruins, slave quarters, a windmill, and other ruins. There are placards and signs along the paths that describe how the sugar was produced and shares what life might have been like on the plantation and on the island.

Virgin Islands National Park

Virgin Islands National Park is made up of 7,259 acres of sheer beauty. In fact, more than 60% of the island of St. John is protected by the National Park system. The park also includes the reefs that surround the island, as well. Annaberg Sugar Plantation and Trunk Bay are two of the highlights of the park.

Other Ruins on the Island

If you’re interested, there are ruins scattered all around the island. Annaberg and the Reef Bay Sugar Mill Ruins are some of the best-preserved.

Hours

The park is open every day except Thanksgiving and Christmas. The visitor center is open from 8 AM to 4:30 PM.

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Tags CARIBBEAN, CRUISE, CRUISE TRAVEL, NATIONAL PARK, ST. JOHN, USVI

Cruise Travel

5 Ports Where People Stay on the Ship

Post author By Elle MacRae
Post date December 16, 2020
1 Comment on 5 Ports Where People Stay on the Ship

5 Ports Where People Stay on the Ship– One of the most incredible things about cruising is that you can often travel to multiple countries in one trip. It’s such a unique travel experience that takes a lot of the planning and logistics out of the equation. Oh…and did I mention you only have to unpack once?

One downside to cruising is that sometimes you may visit a port that isn’t as desirable as some of the others. These are the ports where frequent cruisers simply elect to stay on the ship. Crime, accessibility, and a handful of other factors contribute to some people opting to spend the day napping or lounging by the pool, rather than out exploring the ports.

5 Ports Where People Stay on the Ship

Nassau

Nassau is one of those ports that frequent cruisers have visited countless times. Sometimes, this leads to a “Been there, done that” mentality that causes people to stay on board the ship. Once you’ve done Atlantis and survived the Straw Market, there isn’t a ton left to do here, aside from the beach. If you do decide to leave the ship (and we hope you do), here are 7 Things for Cruisers to Do Within Walking Distance of the Port.

In all honesty, on more than one occasion I’ve gotten off of the ship in Nassau, grabbed a cup of coffee at Starbucks, ran into a shop, and then headed back on to the ship.

Freeport

Aside from hitting the beach and snorkeling, there really isn’t all that much to do in Freeport. If you’re not a beach person (which not everyone that cruises are), you may be better off skipping this port. Many cruisers opt to stay on the ship while docked in Freeport. This is a great time to hit the pool, layout on the deck, visit the spa, or take a nap.

Belize

Belize is a tender port, meaning you have to take a water taxi from the ship to the port. Often times, this means having to wait in lines and deal with crowds (ewww….). Unless you book an excursion, there isn’t much to do in Belize. Do yourself a favor, book an excursion, and don’t miss out on this amazing country!

There is so much to see and do here, and if you stay on the ship you’re truly missing out. This is one of our favorite cruise ports. Trust me on this one, book an excursion, get off the ship, and check out all of the amazing things this country has to offer.! Here are our Top 5 Things to Do in Belize.

Costa Maya

This is is a manufactured port, meaning that Carnival has built up the area into a “destination”. There are plenty of shops and restaurants in the port area and there’s a pool with a swim-up bar. Frequent cruisers often skip this port and stay on board to enjoy the ship when it is less crowded. Why? Honestly, aside from the fact that locals are employed here, there’s nothing really authentic about it.

Jamaica

Jamaica is intimidating to a lot of people. The constant soliciting is a huge nuisance. We suggest making a game out of being asked how many times you’d like to have your hair braided. This is another one of those ports where we suggest booking an excursion, rather than striking it out on your own. There is safety in numbers and Jamaica is one of those places where you don’t want to wander too far away from the port on your own.

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Updated: 10/23/21

Tags BELIZE, COSTA MAYA, CRUISE TRAVEL, FREEPORT, JAMAICA, NASSAU

Caribbean Cruise Excursions Cruise Travel Half Moon Cay The Bahamas

Do I Need to Book an Excursion in Half Moon Cay?

Post author By Elle MacRae
Post date December 10, 2020
2 Comments on Do I Need to Book an Excursion in Half Moon Cay?

“Do I Need to Book an Excursion in Half Moon Cay?” This is a question that I get asked a lot. Quite frankly, there are some cruise ports where you absolutely must book an excursion, and then there are others where you really don’t have to.

What is an Excursion?

An excursion is an activity that you book in a cruise port. The excursions range from historic tours, snorkeling and beach tours, visits to popular attractions, activities that will get your adrenaline pumping, and cultural activities. They are booked through local tour companies and cost additional money. Excursions can go from anywhere from $39 to hundreds of dollars for scuba diving, golfing, and helicopter tours.

Do I Need to Book an Excursion in Half Moon Cay?

You can absolutely get away with NOT booking an excursion in Half Moon Cay. It is a private island owned and developed by Carnival Cruise Lines. Let me tell you, it is heaven on Earth! The island is made up of white sand beaches surrounded by crystal blue water. It is absolutely stunning!

The island has several water toys available for rent including catamarans, sailboats, rafts, kayaks, paddleboards, etc.

You can also rent a clamshell, cabana, or beach villa. All of these can be charged to your Sail & Sign card. I strongly suggest booking cabanas and beach villas in advance.

If you would rather not shell out money on the island, that’s totally okay! There are plenty of lounge chairs to be had, just make sure you catch an early tender if you are traveling with a large group. Since this is a private island, you can also hit up the buffet free of charge.

Check out our article, 5 Facts About Half Moon Cay to learn a little more.

Recommended Excursions in Half Moon Cay

While you definitely do not need an excursion, there are several that are available. To be honest, I’ve never booked an excursion in HMC simply because there are so many amenities. However, if you want to do something extra here, these excursions all look pretty rad.

Stingray Adventure

I love a good (humane) animal encounter. This excursion brings you up close and personal with friendly southern stingrays. You won’t believe how velvety smooth stingrays wings feel!

Tropical Kayak Adventure

Kayaking is one of my favorite activities. On this excursion, you’ll have about 1 hour to take the kayak out onto the lagoon. A naturalist will join you to point out all of the local flora and fauna.

Aqua Trax Watercraft Adventure

First off…an Aqua Trax is a jet ski. This tour takes you well beyond the shores of Half Moon Cay and straight out to a natural reef. You’ll get to see nearby islands and zoom through coves and inlets. It looks like an absolute blast!

Cabana Rental

Let me tell you, this is the way to go! One of the “excursions” that is available is renting out a cabana for private use. You’ll be the first tender ashore and have access to air conditioning (ummm…how perfect is this for summer???). There are also snacks, sodas, and water provided. The cabana is rented for a flat rate and is suitable for up to 4 guests.

Beach Villa Rental

There are also Beach Villas available for rent (see the top photo on this post). The villas are good for up to 8 people and include a hot tub, shower, and sun deck. It also comes with fresh fruit and vegetables, chips, dip, and salsa along with sodas and bottled water. Oh…and it comes with snorkel gear.

Let Us Help You Plan Your Trip

Check out our Ultimate Guide on How to Plan a Cruise and start planning your dream vacation today!

Want more information on this port? Check out our Complete Guide to Half Moon Cay.

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Updated: 4/15/22

Tags CRUISE EXCURSIONS, CRUISE TRAVEL, Half Moon Cay, THE BAHAMAS

Caribbean Cozumel Cruise Excursions Cruise Travel Mayan Ruins Mexico Playa del Carmen

The Complete Guide to the Tulum Ruins

Post author By Elle MacRae
Post date December 2, 2020
6 Comments on The Complete Guide to the Tulum Ruins

Tulum is one of the most popular tourist destinations in all of Mexico. Each year, more than 2 million visitors flock to the Yucatan to visit these ruins overlooking the Caribbean Sea. Even if you aren’t a history nerd, like me, chances are you’ll love the Tulum ruins simply because of the picturesque location.

The History of Tulum

Archaeologists assume Tulum served as a port due to the fact that it was built right on the sea. This was one of the last settlements built and occupied by the Maya before the Spanish arrived in the 15th Century. It managed to survive for 70 years after the Spanish started occupying the area. It is believed that Old World diseases, brought by the Spanish, forced the Maya to abandon the cities.

What time should I arrive?

The earlier you get to the ruins, the better. The tour buses start rolling in in the late morning and the place starts to get rather crowded. If you’re planning on visiting the ruins as a cruise excursion, book the earliest excursion possible.

However, if you can’t get there early, get there late! When you get there at about 3:30, the crowds typically start to thin out. 1.5 hours is plenty of time to explore the ruins.

On Sundays, Mexican nationals can enter the ruins for free, meaning that it can be a bit pretty crowded.

Learn more at TulumRuins.net

Important Info

The ruins are open from 8 AM to 5 PM every day. The last entry is at 4 PM.
The ruins are located 3km outside of downtown Tulum. If you arrive by car or scooter, you’ll have to pay to park. The cost is 80 pesos for car and 50 pesos for scooter.
The admission for Tulum is 75 pesos per adult
The ruins themselves are located about half a mile from the parking area.

How to get to Tulum from Playa del Carmen

Head to Calle 2 between 15th and 20th Avenue. Here you’ll find a row of colectivos with men calling out, “Tulum!”. Head towards one of these guys and hop inside. The trip will take you about 45 minutes and will cost between $2-3 USD (40 MXN).

What is there to see at Tulum?

The Maya ruins in Tulum represent what was once a vast, walled Pre-Colombian settlement. Remarkably, many of the walls remain standing. The most remarkable buildings here are the Pyramid El Castillo (the castle), the Temple of the Descending God, and the Temple of the Frescoes.

El Castillo

This is the largest and most prominent building on the property. The building was used as a watchtower to monitor the canoes coming and going.

Temple of the Descending God

This single room structure was built at the top of another temple that served as its base. In the niche located at the top of the door stands a culture of a god with wings and a headdress holding objects in his hands.

Temple of the Frescos

This was used as an observatory to track the movements of the sun. Makes sense considering these are Maya ruins…right? The building consists of two parts, the lower gallery and the upper gallery. The upper gallery features some of the best preserved relief-carvings in the region.

Pro-Tips

Bring a lot of water. It can get really hot at the ruins and there isn’t much shade.
Wear comfortable shoes.
Bring a towel and bathing suit. The ruins are located at the top of a cliff overlooking a remarkable beach. There isn’t anywhere to change so make sure you’re wearing your bathing suit before you arrive.
Ditch the tripod. Plan on sticking with the traditional selfies since tripods aren’t allowed on the site.

The Beach

Lastly, Tulum is home to the most magnificent little beach. Is there anything cooler than swimming or laying out under the watchful eye of the Maya ruins? We think not!

If you plan on hitting the beach make sure you come dressed in your bathing suit, as there isn’t really anywhere to change. If you plan on spending a long period of time there, it’s best to go during low tide. When the tide is up, the beach almost completely vanishes.

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Tags COSTA MAYA, COZUMEL, CRUISE, CRUISE EXCURSIONS, CRUISE TRAVEL, MAYAN RUINS, MEXICO, TULUM

Caribbean Cruise Excursions Cruise Travel UNESCO World Heritage Site

Nelson’s Dockyard: Antigua’s National Treasure

Post author By Elle MacRae
Post date December 1, 2020
No Comments on Nelson’s Dockyard: Antigua’s National Treasure

The View from Shirley Heights Lookout, Antigua

Nelson’s Dockyard is a cultural heritage site and marina located on the tropical island of Antigua, in Antigua and Barbuda. Today, the Dockyard is home to Antigua’s famous sailing events such as the Antigua Charter Yacht Meeting and the Antigua Sailing Week. The views from the sites in this National Park are absolutely unforgettable.

A Brief History

In 1632, England acquired the colonial British Antigua and Barbuda. The English Harbour became home to the naval base. By 1707, naval ships were using the English Harbour as a station. From this vantage point, they were able to monitor what was going on on the French island of Guadeloupe next door.

The Harbour solidified its space in history in 1723 when a hurricane swept across the island. 35 ships were tossed ashore in other locations on the island. However, the ships that were docked in the English Harbour suffered no damage. Soon afterward, the area was developed as a full-scale dockyard.

The sail loft pillars are a remnant of the Dockyard’s colonial past

Afterward, construction of the Naval Dockyard began in the 1740s. Enslaved laborers from nearby plantations were sent to work on the dockyard. Over the years, they worked tirelessly on developing what we know as Nelson’s Dockyard.

Throughout the eighteenth century, the dockyard grew in importance, as it was the only harbor in the Eastern Caribbean large enough for safe naval ship repairs.

The Dockyard is named after Admiral Horatio Nelson, who lived there from 1784 to 1787.

After the sugar industry faded away, Britain turned its sights elsewhere and the Dockyard closed in 1889.

Nelson’s Dockyard Today

Nelson’s Dockyard National Park is protected as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Today, the Dockyard remains relevant as the site of Antigua’s famous sailing events such as the Antigua Charter Yacht Meeting and the Antigua Sailing Week.

The Dockyard has been fully restored to its original state. Today, the buildings now serve as shops, hotels, and marina businesses. The site offers impeccable views from places such as Shirley Heights.

Important Information for Your Visit

Nelson’s Dockyard is open daily from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.
The cost of admission is $8 and covers entry to all sites, including Shirley Heights and Dow’s Hill.

Is it Worth the Visit?

Even if you aren’t a history nerd, like myself, a trip to Nelson’s Dockyard is an absolute must while you’re in Antigua. The stunning views, alone, make the trip 100% worth it!

While You’re in Antigua…

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Tags ANTIGUA, CARIBBEAN, CRUISE EXCURSIONS, CRUISE TRAVEL, UNESCO WORLD HERITAGE SITE

Bonaire Caribbean Cruise Excursions Cruise Travel South America

Do I Need to Book an Excursion in Bonaire?

Post author By Elle MacRae
Post date November 25, 2020
1 Comment on Do I Need to Book an Excursion in Bonaire?

“Do I Need to Book an Excursion in Bonaire?” This is a question that I get asked a lot. Quite frankly, there are some cruise ports where you absolutely must book an excursion, and then there are others where you really don’t have to. To really get the most out of your visit, you should book an excursion in Bonaire.

What is an Excursion?

An excursion is an activity that you book in a cruise port. The excursions range from historic tours, snorkeling and beach tours, visits to popular attractions, activities that will get your adrenaline pumping, and cultural activities. They are booked through local tour companies and cost additional money. Excursions can go from anywhere from $39 to hundreds of dollars for scuba diving, golfing, and helicopter tours.

Do I Need to Book an Excursion in Bonaire?

In all honesty, I would recommend booking an excursion in Bonaire. Bonaire is still developing as a tourist destination- especially when it comes to cruising. Although there are bars, restaurants, and shops located near Cruisehaven (where the ships dock), there isn’t much to do as far as activities are concerned.

The fact of the matter is, Bonaire is still relatively new to the cruising scene. In fact, when we visited there was a huge celebration hosted by the local government and board of tourism. Our visit was the first time Carnival Cruise Line visited the island- which is pretty rad. It was a very cool experience and it made us all feel extremely welcomed.

Honestly, the highlight of Bonaire is the ecotourism. The snorkeling and diving here are top-notch. You could easily get away with not booking an excursion here and simply taking a cab to the beach. If you would prefer to do an organized snorkeling tour, there are plenty of options on the island.

Nearby Beaches

Boka Kokolishi

Most black sand beaches get their color from volcanoes, but not Boka Kokolishi! Believe it or not, this beach is named after the tiny black snails whose crushed shells give the sand its dark color.

Chachacha Beach

If this isn’t the coolest name for the beach, I don’t know what is! Chachacha Beach is within walking distance of the cruise ship terminal. The beach is small but it offers easy access to the water. The water is typically calm making this a popular beach for families. In fact, local children often learn to swim here! Chachacha beach is excellent for snorkeling and diving.

Pink Beach

Grab a cab and head to Pink Beach if you want to escape the crowds. Pink Beach gets its colors for the millions of microscopic vibrant pink sea creatures called foraminifera. Much like the other beaches, this place is perfect for snorkeling and diving (are you noticing a trend here?)

Recommended Excursions in Bonaire

Seacow 2-Stop Snorkel

The snorkeling in Bonaire is pristine! Bonaire is world famous for its marine park, reefs and snorkeling and diving opportunities. This tour takes you to Klein Bonaire, a small island off the coast of the main island. You’ll take a guided tour of the reefs. We highly recommend this tour!

Bonaire Outback and Beach Stop

We love off-road adventures. There’s nothing quite like hitting the dirt in four-wheel-drive! This excursion takes you out to the desert on the eastern coast of the island. You won’t believe how gorgeous the contrast is between the sandy desert and the vibrant blue waters! After you hit the mud trails, you’ll have a chance to see the local flamingos, goats, and donkeys. You’ll also have a chance to spend some time at the gorgeous Sorobon Beach.

Eco Tour at Lac Bay National Park

Bonaire is home to one of the best preserved mangrove forests in the Caribbean. This tour takes you to Lac Bay National Park where you’ll board a skiff where you’ll get a chance to see the island from the sea. The boat passes by a lagoon that is a sanctuary for thousands of flamingos. I you get lucky, you’ll even spot the wild donkeys and horses that inhabit this part of the island.

Best of Bonaire

I don’t think you can ever go wrong with a “Best of…” tour. They are the best way to see all of the highlights of an island/destination. This tour not only takes you out into the desert, but it also visits Salt Lake. This natural salt water lake is the feeding ground for flamingos and is one of the most picturesque parts of the island. You’ll also visit Washington National Park, the salt flats, and 17th century slave huts.

Glass Bottom Boat

Bonaire is just as beautiful underwater as it is above ground. This tour takes you on a 32-foot glass-bottom boat. You’ll head to the Bonaire National Marine Park where you’ll see one of the best-preserved and protected reefs in the world. If you like marine life but snorkeling and diving aren’t you’re thing- this is the perfect choice for you!

Let Us Help You Plan Your Trip

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Tags BONAIRE, CARIBBEAN, CRUISE EXCURSIONS, CRUISE TRAVEL, SOUTH AMERICA

Cruise Tips Cruise Travel Packing

10 Tips for First Time Cruisers

Post author By Elle MacRae
Post date November 18, 2020
No Comments on 10 Tips for First Time Cruisers

Are you planning on heading out on your first cruise? Here are 10 tips for first-time cruisers that will help get your vacation started on the right foot.

Our Street…er… Sea Cred

We are a family of avid cruisers. In fact, we’re Platinum Cruisers meaning that we’ve spent more than 75 days at sea. I’m not telling you this to brag, just to let you know that I’ve got a bit of experience in this area. Unfortunately, we’ve had to learn a lot of lessons the hard way. Our goal is to help others learn from our mistakes!

The view of Charlotte Amalie, St. Thomas from the SkyRide to Paradise Point

We’ve traveled all throughout the Caribbean from eastern ports like Nassau, St. Thomas, and Tortola to western ports like Belize, Mahogany Bay, and Mexican ports. We’ve also visited ports like Aruba and Bonaire in the southern Caribbean and sailed into southeastern Alaska. Our travels have allowed us to gain insight into the ins and outs of cruise travel– knowledge that we can’t wait to share with you!

10 Tips for First Time Cruisers

1. Check the ships dress code before you go.

Each ship/cruise line has its own vibe. Be sure to look into what is considered appropriate attire on the ship; especially in the dining room. You can check past cruiser photos on social media or on travel blogs to see how others dressed.

2. Designate a bag just for the beach or pool.

I always toss a backpack or beach bag to store my towel, Kindle Paperwhite, sunscreen, etc. I suggest taking a look at my 13 Things I Keep in my Cruise Beach and Pool Bag to jot down all of the essentials. Oh, and that towel? Leave it at home.

3. Have a well-thought out embarkation bag.

Making sure that you are organized from day one is the key to a successful vacation. Your embarkation bag should include your passport, boarding pass, medications, and these items.

4. Make sure you tie up loose ends before you go.

I strongly suggest taking a look at my 12 Things You Should Do Before You Cruise to help ensure you don’t miss any important steps! Part of being prepared is having everything you need on hand and easily accessible.

5. Pick up a map of the cruise ship as soon as you get on board.

Some of these ships are huge, y’all. They are like micro-cities. It’s a good idea to get acclimated to your surroundings on day one. If you get lost, there are almost always maps located at the elevator bays.

Get out there and explore! Embarkation days are my favorite! Here are some tips to help your Embarkation Day go as perfectly as possible.

6. Pack medications, just in case.

I always pack medication for heartburn, upset stomach, allergies, and headaches. If you are prone to seasickness or motion sickness, you’ll want to prepare for that as well. Sea-Bands are handy, but there are other ways to prevent seasickness, as well.

7. Pack a power cord.

Depending on what ship you are on, you may only have 1 or 2 power outlets. Think of all of the electronics you’ll be bringing on board with you! I pack an Anker PowerPort Cube that has 3 outlets and 3 USB ports.

8. Check your cell phone and data plan.

Phone calls from the ship average around $2 a minute. Consider getting an international plan that will give you a much cheaper rate, and often free data.

The internet on the ship is SLOW. We’re talking painstakingly slow. If you have a data plan that allows you to browse the web while abroad, you can use Skype, WhatsApp, Facebook, and other apps to communicate with your loved ones at home.

I’m almost always able to find free internet in port. The connections typically aren’t secure and the speed may not be the greatest but I’m able to send off a few messages and upload a couple of photos.

9. Be smart about the sun!

Guys, even as a Floridian I’ve been sunburned on a cruise. Trust me, there is nothing worse than nursing a sunburn while on vacation. Pack plenty of sunscreen, and make sure you’re using it regularly. While you’re at it, toss in some aloe and Chapstick with SPF. If you’re heading into the jungle or rainforest, pack some BullFrog Mosquito Coast in your bag, as well.

10. Go with the flow.

It is important to understand that things don’t always go as planned. The line at the buffet may take forever, you may be seated by really obnoxious people in the dining room, you may not be able to pull into a port because of the wind, or it might rain every day. These things happen. How you react to these circumstances will make or break your cruise! Keep things fun and light-hearted. Go with the flow and you’re sure to have an amazing time!

We hope you found these tips for first time cruisers helpful! Please don’t hesitate to drop any question you may have in the comments below and we’ll do our best to help you 🙂

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Tags CRUISE, CRUISE TIPS, CRUISE TRAVEL

Caribbean Cayman Islands Cruise Excursions Cruise Travel Grand Cayman

Do I Need to Book an Excursion in Grand Cayman?

Post author By Elle MacRae
Post date November 12, 2020
1 Comment on Do I Need to Book an Excursion in Grand Cayman?

“Do I Need to Book an Excursion in Grand Cayman?” This is a question that I get asked a lot. Quite frankly, there are some cruise ports where you absolutely must book an excursion, and then there are others where you really don’t have to.

What is an Excursion?

About the Cayman Islands

The Cayman Islands are made up of three separate islands all of which are surrounded with crystal clear turquoise water and surrounded by white sand beaches.

The Caymans are known for being one of the wealthiest spots in the world- thanks to the banking system that attracts the richest of rich companies in the world!

Grand Cayman, one of the islands that make up The Cayman Islands, is a popular cruise port. The island is known for its shopping, friendly people, and for being one of the safest places to visit in the world!

If you’re looking to book an excursion in Grand Cayman, there are plenty of options available!

Do I Need to Book an Excursion in Grand Cayman?

Grand Cayman is one of the cruise ports where you do not have to book an excursion. Ships pull into George Town, a well-developed part of the island. Within walking distance from the cruise port, you’ll find restaurants and bars like Guy Harvey’s Bar & Grill, Hard Rock Cafe, Margaritaville, and Sharkeez Bar. There are also points of interest nearby such as the Stingray Fountain, Atlantis Submarines, Cayman Islands National Museum, Hog Sty Bay Historical Marker, and Fort George Ruins.

The Best Beaches in Grand Cayman

Another option is to hail a cab and head towards one of the nearby beaches. We recommend:

Seven Mile Beach– Popular with cruisers and folks staying at the resort.
Governors Beach– A pristine white sand beach perfect for snorkeling.
Cemetery Beach- A popular spot for snorkeling and looking for sea glass.
West Bay Beach- A white sand beach with a reef and calm, clear water. Great for snorkeling.

Recommended Excursions in Grand Cayman

Stingray Sandbar, Starfish Point, Beach & Lunch –

This 4-hour tour involves a boat ride out to Stingray City where you’ll have the chance to swim with the Southern Atlantic Stingrays. Then, you’ll zip on over to Starfish Point where you’ll have a chance to interact with starfish. Afterward, you’ll enjoy an island-style picnic on Starfish Beach.

Stingray Sandbar, Hell & Turtle Experience Center

This 4.5-hour tour crams all of the highlights into one little package. You’ll see Seven Mile Beach, explore the Turtle Centre, sample some rum cake at the Rum Cake Outlet, visit Hell, before hopping on a boat out to Stingray City.

Atlantis Submarine

This hour and a half tour will take you deep into the underwater Abyss. We’re talking 100 feet deep! Check out the amazing marine life in the National Marine Park through the windows of your submarine.

Barrier Reef & Starfish Point Snorkel

This 3.5-hour tour is great for snorkeling newbies! You’ll take a 25-minute boat ride out to the Barrier Reef and snorkel among the coral, sponges, sea fans, and vibrant tropical fish. After you get your fins wet, you’ll take a short boat ride over to Starfish Point to get a glimpse of starfish in their natural habitat!

7 Mile Beach Club Getaway

This is the most popular beach for cruisers and tourists. The beach has powdery-white sand and crystal-clear water. Get there early if you want to a chair, this beach fills up quickly!

Cayman Crystal Caves Adventure

This 3-hour tour takes you deep into the tropical forest to the Cayman Crystal Caves. The caves are believed to have been used by pirates to hide their treasure! If you’re into stalactites, stalagmites, and crystals, this tour is perfect for you!

Be sure to take these with you!

A GOOD pair of comfortable water shoes.
A waterproof phone case to take underwater photos
Eco-friendly sunscreen
Dry Bags offer light-weight water-proof storage perfect for water activities.

Important Information

Grand Cayman is a tender port. This means that the water surrounded the island is too shallow for the cruise ship to pull in, so they drop anchor off the coast and ferry people to and from the island on smaller boats.

This often means having to wait for a tender (the name of the smaller boat) in order to get off/on the ship. Be sure to factor this in when making your plans for the day.

Let us Help You Plan Your Trip

Check out our Ultimate Guide on How to Plan a Cruise and start planning your dream vacation today!

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Updated:12/10/22

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Tags CARIBBEAN, CAYMAN ISLANDS, CRUISE EXCURSIONS, CRUISE TRAVEL, GRAND CAYMAN

Caribbean Central America Cruise Excursions Cruise Travel Honduras

Do I Need to Book an Excursion in Mahogany Bay?

Post author By Elle MacRae
Post date November 7, 2020
5 Comments on Do I Need to Book an Excursion in Mahogany Bay?

“Do I Need to Book an Excursion in Mahogany Bay?” This is a question that I get asked a lot. Quite frankly, there are some cruise ports where you absolutely must book an excursion, and then there are others where you really don’t have to.

What is an Excursion?

Do I Need to Book an Excursion in Mahogany Bay?

Mahogany Bay was developed by the Carnival Cruise Line. Their goal was to create a haven for tourists so that they wouldn’t have to leave the port area. There is plenty to do here including shopping, dining, swimming, snorkeling, paddleboarding, and other fun water activities. If you’re on a budget, you could definitely not book an excursion here and still have an amazing day!

However, as tempting as it is to stay in the port area, we urge you to get out of the area and see the REAL Roatan, Honduras. The island of Roatan is much different than what Carnival portrays. While the island is a little rough around the edges, it is absolutely stunning.

We suggest visiting the Stone Castle Cameo Institute, ziplining, or heading to the West End for snorkeling.

Nearby Beaches

Little French Key

Imagine a tranquil, freshly raked, white sand beach that is shaded by gorgeous palms and surrounded by clear blue water. That, my friends, is Little French Key (LFK). This island is an absolute dream. Whether you’re looking to simply relax, wade in the tranquil cove, or try your hand at watersports, this place offers it all! LFK is an amazing spot for snorkeling, paddleboarding, and kayaking. There’s even a rope swing that you can play on- if you’re brave enough!

Sandy Bay Beach

This quiet tranquil beach is part of the Roatan Marine Park preserve. There is a reef teaming with fish, lobster, and coral that parallels the white sand beach. We love heading to the West End to get away from the crowds.

Tabyana Beach

This beach is a bit more crowded than the one at Sandy Bay but it is closer to the bars, restaurants, and resorts. Grab a Monkey Lala (the local drink) before you hit the beach. This beach shares a reef with Sandy Bay Beach. There are chairs with umbrellas available to rent.

West Bay Beach

In case you couldn’t tell, we really love the West End and West Bay side of the island. And really, what’s not to love? The beaches here are absolutely perfect: white sand, clear, calm turquoise waters, and breathtaking views. This beach offers water activities ranging from scuba diving, snorkeling, and even parasailing.

Maya Cay

This private island is located just across the bay from Mahogany Bay. It features two secluded beaches, a pool, lush gardens, and an exhibition center about the local culture. The snorkeling here is amazing so pack your gear!

Recommended Excursions in Mahogany Bay

Canopy Tour & Tabyana Beach

Man, I love ziplining! There’s nothing quite like having the wind blow through your hair as you are zipping through the canopy. This tour takes you to the Gumbalimba Park where you’ll complete 7 traverses. Afterwards, you’ll be taken to the Tabyana Beach where you can explore the reef.

Tabyana Beach Break

If zip lining isn’t your thing, you can take a tour that just hits the beach. Tabyana Beach is where the jungle meets the beach. It has crystal clear waters as well as an amazing reef just off the shore.

Top 10 Best Attractions of Roatan

I enjoy booking the “Best of…” excursions so that I can see all that the port has to offer. This tour takes you to an iguana farm, a chocolate factory (sans Willy Wonka), and several other attractions. We enjoyed checking out the Cameo Factory, which is the only one in the Americas. The craftsmanship is impeccable. The tour includes a pit stop at a private beach.

Big French Key Island with Watersports

If the thought of booking a tour outside of the cruise line scares you, consider visiting Big French Key, the neighbor to Little French Key. The beach here is everything you imagine a Caribbean beach to be. You’ll have access to snorkeling gear, kayaks, paddleboards, and beach toys. The bay includes features Maya replicas for you to explore underwater.

Monkeys, Sloths, & Macaws

This tour not only takes you on a scenic tour of the island but it also takes you to a cool spot where you can hang out with monkeys, sloths, and macaws! Afterwards, you’ll be taken to a second locations where you can feed iguana (hundreds of them), in their natural habitat.

While You’re in Roatan…

Let Us Help You Plan Your Cruise

Check out our Ultimate Guide on How to Plan a Cruise and start planning your dream vacation today!

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Be sure to give us a like on Facebook or follow us on Instagram and Twitter for more travel tips and tricks. See you next time!

Updated: 7/6/22

Tags CENTRAL AMERICA, CRUISE, CRUISE EXCURSIONS, CRUISE TRAVEL, HONDURAS, ROATAN