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Guide to shore excursions in Grand Cayman for cruise passengers: day guide in George Town port with tips on transportation, things to do, and Stingray City.

Grand Cayman is a popular cruise port which attracts around a million cruise ship passengers a year, and it’s not difficult to see why. The Island is safe, clean, easy to get around and has a host of shore excursions to choose from, such as relaxing on white sandy beaches, shopping, snorkelling, diving, world-famous attractions like Stingray City and the Cayman Turtle Centre and of course there are plenty of options for eating and drinking. The hard part is deciding what to do when you have just one day in Grand Cayman.

We have set out some useful information on Grand Cayman shore excursions below with links to more information and recommended tour providers. We've partnered with many businesses to offer exclusive discounts , so be sure to mention EXPLORE when booking to receive your discount.

The following businesses come highly recommended and often the cost of the tour will be considerably less than if booking via the cruise line! These businesses are used to providing a high quality tours for the discerning visitor. You won't experience overloaded boats here!

Editor's Comments

If you want to get away from the cruise terminal and see a bit of Grand Cayman without renting your own vehicle, an island tour will be your cheapest option. Although a private taxi tour will cost more, the experience is almost always better. Keep in mind that renting your own vehicle and exploring on your own is in the same relative price range as a tour.

About Cayman

The Cayman Islands are a British Overseas Territory and as such English is the official language and people drive on the left. The Islands are on Eastern Standard Time (or GMT -5) however daylight savings are not observed. The currency is the Cayman Islands (CI) dollar. Although US dollars are accepted island-wide, change will always be given in CI$. The exchange rate is fixed to the US dollar: CI$1 is US$1.25 or US$1 to CI$0.80. Banks are open 9am-4pm Monday to Friday and there are plenty of ATMs in George Town and across the island.

Getting Around

There are plenty of ways to get around Grand Cayman including some inexpensive options. Whilst it can feel a bit overwhelming when you arrive as the George Town port is bustling with activity, the information below should help you make the best choice for your needs.

How you get around will largely depending on the amount of time you have and how much you'd like to spend. Make sure to think about the logistics of your day in Grand Cayman in relation to all the activities you'd like to do.

• Walking: If you intend to stay in the George Town area then you will be able to get around on foot with no problems. Check out our online maps of Cayman or pick up a copy of Explore magazine which you’ll find in racks located around George Town and across the island as it has excellent maps of the George Town area with shops, restaurants and historical sites clearly marked.
• Taxi : Taxi fares are based charged per person and are fixed by the government, although it is worth confirming the price before you set off. There will be plenty of taxis waiting at the port when your ship docks. Taxis look like mini vans and drivers prefer to have a minimum of four passengers to make it worth their while.
• Bus : Buses are a very cost effective way to get around, most journeys are between CI$1-CI$3. Buses look like mini vans - you can hail one by waving your hand when they toot at you. The bus depot is next to the library in George Town (across from Heroes Square fountain). When you board tell the driver where you would like to go and usually you can be dropped off outside the door. Click here for more information on bus routes in Cayman .
• Rental Car : To make the most of your time in port it is worth considering renting a car to give you the flexibility to see what you want at your own pace. Car rental agencies offer one-day prices for cruise ship passengers and will meet you at the port. The island is small and easy to navigate so you won’t need to worry about wasting time getting lost. Some recommended car rental agencies in Cayman include Go Cayman Car Rental and Economy & Discount Car Rentals .

If your idea of heaven is relaxing on a gorgeous white sandy beach then you’re in luck as Grand Cayman delivers with the famous Seven Mile Beach and a number of others for you to while away the hours on.

Best Beaches for Cruise Passengers

Seven mile beach (public beach), smith's barcadere, cemetery beach, spotts beach, governor's beach, starfish point, attractions & activities.

There is more to Cayman than just wonderful beaches; there are also attractions to suit every interest and budget.

For families, you can check out wildlife experience such as Cayman Parrot Sanctuary and Queen Elizabeth II Botanic Park. Unique experiences like the Crystal Caves, Stingray City and the Cayman Turtle Centre are great for all ages!

Helicopter Tours in Grand Cayman

Various helicopter tours, including Seven Mile Beach, Stingray City or a complete Island adventure

Recommended for all ages

Parasailing Rides

Fly high in the sky and get a fantastic view of the Island! Single, double or triple rides available

Recommended ages: 5+

A ride first and then the horses are unsaddled and ridden bareback into the sea, then re-saddled and you ride back to the stable.

The Beach Ride

Guided horse ride along the quiet and beautiful Barkers Beach.

Recommended ages: 8+

Free Tour of the National Gallery of the Cayman Islands

Visit the National Gallery and see its permanent art collection, plus up to eight exhibitions a year

Mangrove Kayak Tour

Don’t miss exploring one of the most amazing and important ecological systems of the world right here in the Cayman Islands.

Stingray City and other Boat Tours

Cayman islands sailing charters, cayman luxury charters, white sand water sports, y-knot charters, paradise pontoons, top attractions, pedro st. james castle, cayman turtle centre: island wildlife encounter, cayman crystal caves, queen elizabeth ii botanic park, cayman parrot sanctuary, cayman islands national museum, diving & snorkelling.

The Cayman Islands offer some of the best diving and snorkelling in the Caribbean. The water is home to an abundance of colourful sea life, is clear, warm and calm, creating perfect conditions to discover our underwater world.

Shore Diving in Cayman

Diving & snorkelling the kittiwake, scuba diving, grand cayman snorkelling.

Cayman is famous for its tax free shopping and items such as jewellery, watches, luxury brands, gems and precious metals can work out much cheaper in Cayman than they would be in America or Europe. On top of this, you can also expect to find locally produced goods like Cayman art, Caymanite, hot sauces, rum cake and fun souvenirs to take home to family and friends.

You will find that George Town will cater to all your shopping needs or alternatively you can try Camana Bay which is a lovely new town centre full of boutique shops, bars and restaurants.

Places to Eat & Drink

Last but certainly not least, you will want to try one of the restaurants in Cayman’s thriving dining scene! Cayman is known as the Culinary Capital of the Caribbean and has one of the highest ratios of restaurants to residents in the world. You will find every type of cuisine available in Cayman , including traditional Cayman food, international gourmet food, Italian, American, Chinese and much more.

Top Restaurant Picks

Anchor & den, ms piper's, harbour grille.

Need wifi? Check out our list of all the places in Grand Cayman that offer free wifi .

Other Useful Information for Cruise Ship Passengers

If you find you need assistance while you are in the Cayman Islands, you might find the following articles useful.

Foreign Consulates & Embassy Numbers

Useful telephone numbers, safety considerations, read more on, luxury yacht charters, free things to do, things to do in savannah.

Please let us know if you have any comments, corrections or ideas to improve!

Explore Cayman Magazine

The 2024 edition of the Explore Cayman magazine is a 160 page full colour magazine and is available on Island for free!

Explore Cayman App

The Explore Cayman app is the #1 app for the Cayman Islands and can be downloaded for free from the Apple app store.

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• Grand Cayman Excursions
• Grand Cayman Captain's Choice Reef and Stingray City Snorkel Excursion S1676

Grand Cayman Captain's Choice Reef and Stingray City Snorkel Excursion

Grand cayman, cayman islands (excursion id s1676).

• Free Cancellation Until 48 hours Before Excursion
• No Port - No Pay: Money Back Guarantee
• Free Unlimited Booking Changes 100% flexibility!
• Complimentary Worry Free Back to ship Insurance!
• Duration 2 hours 30 min
• Activity Level Moderate
• Languages EN

Description

• Meeting Point
• Restrictions

Cancellation

• Round-trip transportation from your Grand Cayman cruise ship terminal!
• English-speaking certified snorkel shore excursion guide!
• 2 great sites to visit and snorkel on this Grand Cayman Snorkeling Cruise Excursion!
• The snorkel set includes varied-sized fins, a sanitized snorkel, a silicone mask, and a vest!
• Complimentary cold bottled water!
• See the world-famous Stingray City and the captain's choice of coral reef snorkeling!

What is included?

• Local experienced snorkel cruise excursion captain.
• Snorkel set including varied-sized fins, sanitized snorkel, silicone mask, and vest.
• Cold bottled water.
• Guided snorkeling and Stingray City visit.
• Round-trip motorboat ride and guided reef and stingray snorkel excursion.

Excursion Notes

• We suggest you bring comfortable clothing, a bathing suit/towel, sun protection, any snacks you might want, cash for tips, food/beverages at the beach, etc.
• Not available on Sundays

Where we meet

For this Grand Cayman Captain's Choice Reef and Stingray City Snorkel Excursion, you will meet just outside your Grand Cayman cruise ship terminal. All necessary details will be printed on your Electronic Shore Excursion Ticket.

Excursion Restrictions

• This Grand Cayman Captain's Choice Reef and Stingray City Snorkel Excursion is not wheelchair accessible.
• The minimum participation age is 5 years old.
• Children must be attended to by an adult at all times and may not be left on the boat unattended.

Excursion FAQ

• Your ship arrives into port late and you cannot make it in time to the meeting location (we will verify with the tour operator).
• Your ship skips/misses the port.
• Weather conditions or equipment failure prevents the operator from running the excursion.
• A medical problem prevents you from safely participating in the excursion (we will verify with the excursion operator and the guest may send doctor's note). This applies to individuals only and not the remainder of the group.
• Cancellations/deposit refund requests that do not comply with the above may not be subject to refund.
• Refunds may be subject to a service charge fee as determined by the payment processor, please refer to Terms and Conditions for more information.

Book this Grand Cayman Excursion

Grand Cayman Captain's Choice Reef and Stingray City Snorkel Excursion Experiences

This excursion is available to everybody and specially designed to accommodate passengers of the following cruise lines.

Similar Grand Cayman Excursions

Grand Cayman Captain's Choice Reef and Stingray City Snorkel Excursion Reviews

On this Grand Cayman Captain's Choice and Stingray City Snorkel Excursion, enjoy both the famous Stingray City Sandbar and one of the best coral reef snorkel sites - captain's choice! Round-trip transportation from your Grand Cayman cruise ship terminal is included.

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10 Can’t-Miss Shore Excursions in the Cayman Islands

Welcome to the beautiful Cayman Islands, where the sun is shining, the water is crystal clear, and adventure awaits! From snorkeling with gentle stingrays to exploring colorful coral reefs, there’s a shore excursion here for everyone. Here are 10 can’t-miss excursions that will take your vacation to the next level. Whether you’re an adrenaline junkie seeking thrills or a laid-back traveler looking to soak up the island vibes, these experiences will leave you with memories to last a lifetime. So pack your sunscreen and let’s dive in!

1. The National Gallery of the Cayman Islands is the premier educational hub dedicated to cultivating visual arts across the Cayman Islands. The museum is open Monday to Friday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. The Cayman Islands national art collection is featured alongside a temporary exhibition gallery, lecture theater, education center, art library, sculpture garden, and café. Discover the artwork created by the Caymanian community and delve into the culture with an interactive video located on the second floor, offering fascinating insights about the islands. Visitors can enter the museum at no cost and may stop by the gift shop on their way out. Learn more about the gallery here .

2. Have you ever wanted to swim with stingrays? Well, now’s your chance! Take a trip to Stingray City and swim alongside rays in their natural environment with guidance from trained guides … or drift over the coral reefs of Coral Garden and snorkel above a seabed studded with starfish at Starfish Point. Stingray City offers private and shared packages and complimentary shuttle service from hotels and cruise ships. You can also request to include snorkeling at  the coral reef as part of your package. Learn more about the available tour options here

Stingray City 

3. Experience the perfect blend of nature’s grandeur and the legacy of Old World customs at The Queen Elizabeth II Botanic Park . Immerse yourself in the allure and sophistication of a traditional Caymanian garden, highlighted by stunning, colorful, exotic blossoms. The park is open from 9:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Whether you have just a little time or an entire day, this incomparable sanctuary has something to indulge your senses. There are seven primary points of interest available in the Botanic Park, including the Visitor’s Center, the Floral Garden, the Orchid Boardwalk, the Xerophytic Garden, the Heritage Garden, and the Woodland Trail. Guests can book a private tour and learn more about plant identification and the unusual history of the Cayman Islands. Be sure to book your reservation a minimum of 24 hours in advance to secure your spot. For more information on The Queen Elizabeth II Botanic Park , click here.

4. Save the turtles and explore their natural habitat at the Cayman Turtle Centre , which provides a wildlife conservation experience like no other! Witness the grandeur of green sea turtles, frolic with their lively offspring, and potentially witness the emergence of newly hatched turtles from their nests right before your eyes. The facility is located in Grand Cayman’s West Bay district and is open seven days a week from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Guests can explore on two different tours: the turtle safari and the turtle adventure tour. Click here to learn more about what you can expect from both experiences.

5. Travel back in time with a visit to Pedro St James National Historic Site and immerse yourself in the rich history and culture of the Cayman Islands. Also referred to as “Pedro Castle,” St. James was constructed in 1780, making it the Cayman Islands’ longest-standing stone building. The site is located in the Bodden Town district, a 15-minute drive east of George Town. Open daily from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., the national historic site invites guests to walk through its 18th-century Great House and discover the tales of pirate raids, trials, victories, and political struggles it holds. While you’re there, treat yourself to local cuisine and a rum-tasting at the Thatch & Barrel Restaurant. All tours, guided and self-guided, can access the site’s 3D multi-sensory movie theater. Guests can rent the space for weddings or special events with the option to add in-house catering and bar service. Explore seven acres of stunning gardens, soak in breathtaking ocean views, and get ready to embark on a journey of discovery at Pedro St James! Learn more about the site here.

6. For those who want more horsepower than, well, a single horse, ATV riding is a thrilling activity for adventure enthusiasts in the Cayman Islands. The rugged terrain and picturesque landscape make ATVs an exciting way to explore the island and take in breathtaking views. Guests can book a guided tour through the lush mangroves, scenic countryside, and historic landmarks. These usually take approximately two hours and are led by experienced guides. Visitors will ride through mud and dirt tracks while learning interesting facts about the islands’ history, flora, and fauna. ATV riding in the Cayman Islands is an unforgettable adventure that combines fun, nature, and stunning scenery. Click here to book.

ATV Excursion 

7. Whether you’re a seasoned golfer or a beginner looking to learn the game, the Cayman Islands offer an excellent setting for both. Grand Cayman has two golf courses: North Sound Golf Club , offering 18 holes, and The Ritz-Carlton Golf Course , with nine. Both allow guests to rent equipment and take lessons. Soak in the beautiful scenery and get active! Click here to learn more about the courses. .  

8. Guests who want to explore the island but rest their feet should look at horseback riding! This is an amazing activity for families and couples who want to witness the breathtaking views of the Caribbean Sea and the nature of the Cayman Islands in places no motor vehicle could reach. There are two different companies that offer horseback experiences. Spirit Of The West offers daytime and nighttime tours along the beach. Pampered Ponies offers a “beach ride tour” or a “beach and swim tour,” giving you a chance to get in the water with the horse and cool off in the Caribbean Sea.

9. Seven Mile Beach is known for its extensive white sandy beaches, crystal-clear water, and diverse range of water sports. It’s an ideal location to catch a spectacular sunset or take a leisurely walk along the beach. Many restaurants and bars give guests a taste of great Caribbean cuisine and beverages. Rent a beach cabana or parasol and enjoy delicious meals, drinks, and snacks seaside. Seven Mile Beach also offers exciting outdoor activities, such as snorkeling and diving, with various rental facilities offering equipment and guided tours. Offshore, scenic boat tours and catamaran cruises operate along the coast, allowing visitors to see the beach from a unique perspective. Click here to learn more.

10. One of the newest natural attractions on Grand Cayman is the Cayman Crystal Caves . You will be guided on a 45-minute stroll through three distinct caves: theopen-ceiling cave, the roots cave, and the lake cave. Once you’ve finished exploring out of the sun, you can find more wonders on a 30-minute nature walk through a one-of-a-kind tropical forest that has grown above the caves. This lush environment boasts stunning tropical flora and fauna, such as strangler balsam trees, air plants, parrots, and bats. A 15-minute break provides plenty of time for you to visit the scenic viewing deck, where you can also browse a snack and souvenir shop. Cayman Crystal Caves is open seven days a week. Guests looking to explore the caves must pre-book before arrival. For more information on the Crystal Caves, click here. .

The Cayman Islands — Grand Cayman, Cayman Brac, and Little Cayman — offer some of the most diverse and exciting shore excursions in the Caribbean. Whether you’re looking for adventure, relaxation, or a bit of both, there’s something for everyone. From swimming with stingrays and snorkeling in the crystal-clear waters of Seven Mile Beach to exploring the natural beauty of the islands on horseback, ATV, or by boat, there’s a world of possibilities. Visitors can indulge in the local culture, history, and cuisine while enjoying warm weather and an inviting atmosphere. If you’re planning a trip to the Cayman Islands, make sure to add these 10 can’t-miss shore excursions to your itinerary for an unforgettable experience that will leave you with lasting memories and a longing to come back for more!

To learn more about the Cayman Islands, click here . 

Julie Bouchner

Julie Bouchner is the Digital & Social Media Manager for Porthole Cruise and Travel. She has a Master’s Degree in Journalism from Syracuse University. When she is not writing, she enjoys traveling, spending time with family, baking, and playing with her Siberian Husky named Ellie.

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Seven Mile Beach Getaway

• Enjoy 3 hours of free time at Grand Cayman's famous Seven Mile Beach Resort and Club
• Take a scenic coach ride through George Town, and sample local sweets at the Tortuga Rum Cake Factory
• Explore, shop, dine, or just relax under swaying palms and casuarina trees
• Snorkel in crystal-clear waters with included equipment

On your 4-hour tour you will meet up with your guide and board an air-conditioned coach for a panoramic ride through George Town, the island's capital and home to the famous Tortuga Rum Cake Factory. Stop at the factory for a fun rum cake tasting and pick up a souvenir or two, then continue on to Seven Mile Beach. This long, crescent-shaped stretch of land is home to miles of coral sand, sun-worshiping visitors and the majority of Grand Cayman's luxury hotels and resorts.

Head to the famous Seven Mile Beach where you will have 2.5 hours of free time to enjoy the beach and amenities any way you want to! Rent a kayak or jet ski and explore the shoreline or take to the waters for a refreshing swim, then head back to the beach and recline on a comfortable lounge chair and enjoy a cool drink.

Alternatively you can take a stroll down the beach and pop into one of the food stands for an exquisite ocean-side meal. With miles of white sandy beaches, crystal clear water, coconut palms, and casuarina trees, what's not to like?

Book now and get ready to score some fond memories of Seven Mile Beach that will last long after the tan lines are gone.

Please Note: The snorkeling mask and fins are included in this tour; however, a credit card will be needed while using the equipment as a form of security. Beach chairs, umbrellas, watersport activities, food, and drinks are all available to purchase and are not included on this tour.

• Cayman Islands

Carnival Glory Shore Excursions

By khowe , January 18, 2010 in Cayman Islands

Recommended Posts

Hello, newbie here, so be gentle:D

First time cruiser sailing on the Glory Feb 21 with stops in the Western Caribbean. Interested in recent shore excursions with an outfit called Grand Cayman Cruise Excursions.

Will I be better off using the excursions offered through Carnival?

Stingray Sandbar, Beach Club and/or shopping in Cozumel, snorkeling in Isla Roatan and relaxing in Belize City.

Looking for help and recommendations.

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There are pros and cons to using the cruise line tours rather than booking privately.

As a first time cruiser, you might be more comfortable with the cruise line tours. They're easier to book, require less research and planning, and you pay as part of your onboard charges so they're easier to cancel if you change your mind or the ship can't make one of the ports. Also, if your tour is late returning, the ship will wait for you, which it won't if you go off on your own.

However, they're usually more expensive than booking on your own, and you're limited to the selection of tours and companies chosen by the cruise line.

Also, there are some islands (ie. Jamaica) where it's recommended you stick with an excursion through the cruise line. Some islands, like Cayman for example, are perfectly safe to wander around on your own. If you do plan on booking an excursion privately, make sure you check into the safety and such of the island, either here on CC or on other travel websites.

That being said, the Stingray City Sandbar is one of the must-sees of the Cayman Islands. Do a search for "stingray city" here in this forum and you'll find dozens of threads with pictures and reviews. It's a once in a lifetime experience... :D

Try posting in the other ports' forums, in the Carnival forum, or in the roll call for your cruise (if you haven't already) for more info about the other ports and what attractions are worth seeing in those locations.

patrickmoran

There is little if any advantage to booking a ship's excursion for GC. It is a well developed island and tour operators are pretty much on the up and up. There are plenty of recommended operators on this board and on tripadvisor.co. Just use the search function.

barbaraanne

I think for a first time cruiser, you might want to stick with ship excursions at least for Roatan and Belize. Cozumel and Grand Cayman are easy enough to negotiate, but even there, it is always easiest to do a ship excursion, especially because tendering to/from Cayman can be a long process. But if you are with a ship excursion, you get to get off earlier, and they will get you back in time for the tenders. You will probably want to book an excursion in Belize that gets you OUT of Belize City. Try a snorkel or jungle or mayan ruins tour there, with the cruise ship.

Roatan and Belize are third world countries, and if injured, I would not want to be stranded there, having been on a non-ship tour. I did get injured in Belize on a ship tour to shark/ray alley (which they no longer do) and our boat ran out of gas. We had to be towed back to the ship, and they were pulling up anchor when we literally leaped onboard.

I forgot, Grand Cayman Cruise Excursions is part of Island Marketing, and we are doing a tour with them in Cozumel to Nachi Cocum in ten days. From what I've read and having recently dealt with them, I think they are a very reputable organization. They offer tours for local operators on many different islands. But you have to put a deposit down, which is non-refundable unless your ship doesn't make it there or they cancel the tour. However, the deposit can be used towards another tour on a different island, which we have also done.

Hello, newbie here, so be gentle:D   First time cruiser sailing on the Glory Feb 21 with stops in the Western Caribbean. Interested in recent shore excursions with an outfit called Grand Cayman Cruise Excursions.   Will I be better off using the excursions offered through Carnival?   Stingray Sandbar, Beach Club and/or shopping in Cozumel, snorkeling in Isla Roatan and relaxing in Belize City.   Looking for help and recommendations.   Thank you!

We've used Island Marketing (aka grand cayman cruise excursions, cozumel cruise excursions, roatan cruise excursions, etc) a few times and never had any problems. We typically book our excursions independently, rather than thru Carnival, and have had WONDERFUL tours and also saved moola.

I just was on the Glory last week and went to all those posts. I almost never book with the ship. You pay 25% to 50% more by book with the ship.

Cozumel Mexico - Took a taxi to the Myans ruins cost $32 per person (for cab and ruins). The ruins were not much to see. I'd skip this one if I had to do over.

Belize - Did Cave tubbing. Was very fun. A bus picked you up from the port and took you out to rain forrest. $45 per person. Payed and extra $5 for a great lunch. Canaval no long does this tour so you have to book outside the ship. The best is http://www.cave-tubing.com/

Roatan - we took a taxi and did some shopping and went to a privete beach. Cost $35 per person (for beach and cab). Note there is a good beach at the port just for cruise passingers but you don't get to see the real Roatan.

Grand Cayman - Did Sting Ray City and snorkeling for $40. A bus picked us up at the port. We used http://www.mobydicktours.com/. Voted best Stingray city tour 2007 & 2008. One of the few tours were you get to feed the Rays.

Thank you to all that replied! I am set on the Stingray tour in Cayman, maybe some beach time in Cozumel and snorkeling in Roatan....

Now I just have to figure out who to give my money to!

• 3 years later...

Thanks for all the posts for excursions. We sail (first timers) 2/17 on the Glory and just booked the snorkel and Stingray City Excursion through Moby Dick Tours.

We are considering booking tonight, or tomorrow for the private van/car tour around Isle Roatan, Honduras with Bodden tours. This has been highly rated on TripAdvisor, any one taken this around Roatan, or have other input?

That leaves deciding whether or not to book anything on Cozumel and Costa Maya... resort day? Scuba? Maybe it would be better just to have 2 days unplanned? Help!! If I scuba, it would just be myself, hubby can't anymore, so we would have to work that out....

Any ideas on safety on Cozumel and Costa Maya we need to know?

Thanks, Sue and Brian

See you all at the meet and greet at Red Frog's!!:cool:

SkiQueen2007

I booked through Grand Cayman Cruise Excursions last year. They were great! We did the Stingray City plus 2 snorkel stops catamaran tour it was so much fun. I highly recommend Stingray City. They also dropped us off at the Royal Palms with enough time to enjoy 7 mile beach for the day. I booked the Jet Ski Tour through them for my cruise in 3 weeks!

I also booked our Jamaica excursion (tubing and Dunn's River) through their Ocho Rios counter parts. We had another fabulous day and I would highly recommend them!

You will pay less booking with a private company vs the cruiseship. Its not hard to book privately so I always do it and would recommend it. You get smaller tour sizes, more flexibility with timing and activities and a lot better value for your money. I start on TripAdvisor and find out what activities are highly rated for each port of call I'm going to and then i check out the TripAdvisor pages for the tour operators in the area. Good luck and have a good first cruise!

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Norwegian, Carnival and more cruise lines change itineraries due to Hurricane Beryl

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As Hurricane Beryl moves across the Caribbean, a number of cruise lines have changed itineraries in the area in an effort to avoid the storm.

▶ Norwegian Cruise Line altered nearly the entire itinerary for a week-long sailing on its Norwegian Breakaway ship that departed from Miami, Florida, on Sunday. The line canceled stops in Honduras, Harvest Caye in Belize, and Costa Maya and Cozumel in Mexico, according to a letter sent to guests that the line shared with USA TODAY. The ship will instead visit Puerto Plata in the Dominican Republic, St. Thomas, Tortola, and Great Stirrup Cay in the Bahamas instead.

“While we share your disappointment, these modifications were made with great consideration as your safety, and that of our crew, is always our number one priority,” the letter said.

The line similarly changed a week-long sailing aboard Norwegian Jade that left Port Canaveral on Saturday, replacing planned calls in Falmouth, Jamaica, Grand Cayman and Cozumel with San Juan, Puerto Rico, Tortola and Puerto Plata.

Was your cruise itinerary changed? Here's what to do next

▶ Carnival Cruise Line’s Carnival Liberty ship moved a planned Friday stop in Cozumel up to Tuesday. The vessel departed on a week-long cruise from New Orleans, Louisiana, on Sunday, according to CruiseMapper .

Carnival Horizon, which is sailing a six-day itinerary that left Miami on Sunday, will skip a visit to Grand Cayman on Wednesday.

“The safety of our guests and crew is paramount, and we are continuing to monitor forecasts and factor in guidance from the National Hurricane Center, U.S. Coast Guard, and the local port authorities to provide timely updates to our guests as more information becomes available,” spokesperson Matt Lupoli said in an emailed statement.

▶ Disney Cruise Line’s Disney Fantasy ship – which set sail on a week-long cruise from Port Canaveral on Saturday – will not visit Falmouth as planned on Wednesday. The stop will be replaced with a sea day .

The center of the storm is expected to “move quickly across the southeastern and central Caribbean Sea today,” passing near Jamaica on Wednesday and the Cayman Islands the following day, the National Hurricane Center said.

Nathan Diller is a consumer travel reporter for USA TODAY based in Nashville. You can reach him at [email protected].

Shore Excursions Operations Process and Optimization Manager

Job posting for shore excursions operations process and optimization manager at carnival cruise line.

• Provides operational support to the shipboard teams on issues escalated through the respective Fleet Ops Manager and accountable for overall performance of the ships assigned.
• Review and advise on shipboard policies, procedures and guidelines that ensure a safe and efficient working environment for the Shore Excursion staff. Continuous improvement of the tour dispatching process and focused on the efficiency of all operational processes.
• Serves as the main point of contact for tour operators with regards to the shore excursion program, to include but not limited to the quality of shore excursion provided by a tour operator and its delivery to the guest; the safety factors pertaining to each shore excursion; the operational/logistic set-up for each tour provided.
• Train tour operators and guides on sales/service skills and emergency response. Responds to incidents, accidents and major guest complaints. Handles all itinerary changes and deviations, payments, and customer service. Partner on safety factors pertaining to each shore excursion and ensure proactive prevention plans.
• Analyze and recalibrate the performance of all shore excursion offerings for quality, guest satisfaction and overall impact on the program. Partner with the Shorex Product Development Managers to make improvements. Perform visits for site inspection to ensure service provider are performing as contracted and address accordingly.
• Monitors feedback on tour quality (tour operator’s quality of service) provided by guests via TGEM, Bazaar Voice, ICare, Clara Bridge and the operational feedback received from the Shore Excursions teams. Compiles feedback qualitative data and follows up with the tour operators concerning the quality of shore excursion provided by a tour operator and its delivery to the guest; the safety factors pertaining to each shore excursion; the operational/logistic set-up for each tour provided.
• Assure the delivery and quality of the contracted services with every call. Assure constant communication between shipboard teams and Tour Operators. Works to troubleshoot and resolves any Shore Excursion matters that may arise.
• Maintain and build strong relationships with all service providers, outside entities, management and internal colleagues by implementing communication strategies that promote open, honest and effective dialog.
• Bachelor’s degree in Management, Hospitality, Logistics, Business Administration
• 8 years of experience, position requires a minimum of 3 – 5 years’ logistics and quality assurance experience, preferably in the travel industry.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Word, Excel, Outlook, Publisher and PowerPoint
• Project Management skills
• The ideal candidate should have the ability to analyze large amounts of data; think critically or be able to analyze situations or statements and determine their validity; ability to manage complex projects; big picture & systemic thinking - always think in terms of integrated, interconnected systems and how they interact with and affect each other; tech-savvy and ease with new products; ability to spot details in complex projects; soft and hard sales skills; awareness of internal and external customer needs; adaptable and comfortable with the urgent pace imposed by the shipboard operations.
• Health Benefits:
• Cost-effective medical, dental and vision plans
• Employee Assistance Program and other mental health resources
• Additional programs include company paid term life insurance and disability coverage
• Financial Benefits:
• 401(k) plan that includes a company match
• Employee Stock Purchase plan
• Paid Time Off
• Holidays – All full-time and part-time with benefits employees receive days off for 7 company-wide holidays, plus an additional floating holiday to be taken at the employee’s discretion.
• Vacation Time – All full-time employees at the manager and below level start with 14 days/year; director and above level start with 19 days/year. Part-time with benefits employees receive time off based on the number of hours they work, with a minimum of 84 hours/year. All employees gain additional vacation time with further tenure.
• Sick Time – All full-time employees receive 80 hours of sick time each year. Part-time with benefits employees receive time off based on the number of hours they work, with a minimum of 60 hours each year.
• Other Benefits
• Complementary stand-by cruises, employee discounts on confirmed cruises, plus special rates for family and friends
• Personal and professional learning and development resources including tuition reimbursement
• On-site preschool program and wellness center at our Miami campus

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Shore excursions: What new cruisers need to know

T he fun of a cruise is equal parts what you do on board and what you do on shore. Cruise lines offer a full schedule of shore excursions to help you make the most of your time in port. However, the process of choosing and booking tours can be overwhelming for new cruisers.

I've taken shore excursions around the world, both ship-run and independent, and spent many days in port wandering on my own. Allow me to take you through the basics of cruise shore excursions, so you can learn to have the most fun no matter what your budget is.

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

What is a cruise shore excursion?

A shore excursion is a group tour or activity aimed at cruise travelers who can only spend a limited time in each port they're visiting on their itinerary.

A shore excursion could be a sightseeing bus tour, a guided visit to a museum or historic site, an athletic activity (like a hike, bike ride or snorkel outing), a day at the beach or a cooking or dance class. Shore excursions typically highlight the marquee attractions or culture of the destination you're visiting. Sometimes an excursion will take you to sites within walking distance of your cruise; on other occasions, they might take you on a day trip to a nearby city.

Some shore excursions are targeted at families or can easily accommodate children. Some can accommodate passengers with mobility issues or other disabilities . Others may require a minimum level of fitness and are not suitable for everyone.

Shore excursions may be sold by your cruise line and organized with a partner provider. They can also be purchased through independent operators or third-party tour sellers.

Do you have to buy shore excursions on a cruise?

In most cases, you don't need to book a shore excursion to explore a port of call. You can simply walk off the ship and stroll into town or catch a cab to take you wherever you want to go.

However, in some destinations, a shore excursion, or independently operated guided tour, is highly encouraged. This could be in places where it's difficult to navigate as a foreigner who can't speak the language or understand street signs or where the tourism infrastructure is not yet fully developed.

Can I book a shore excursion on my own instead of through my cruise line?

Yes. I use many factors to decide whether to take a ship's tour, book an independent excursion or explore on my own in port. However, if you're a novice traveler, you might want to book ship tours exclusively because they're the simplest, easiest and most convenient options.

The benefits to a cruise line's shore excursions are that they depart from and return to the ship; you don't need to figure out where to meet a guide in a port you've never visited. Better still, should an unexpected problem (traffic, a medical emergency) occur during your outing, the ship will not leave port until all of its own tours have returned.

Independent tours, on the other hand, can be cheaper than cruise ship tours. I once saved hundreds of dollars organizing a group to go on an overnight, independently operated excursion to see Cairo and the Pyramids of Giza from Port Said, Egypt; the ship's tours were incredibly marked up. Also, if you have a particular interest, the ship might not offer a tour for the activity or attraction you're excited about.

Related: Ship-sponsored vs. independent shore excursions on cruises: Which should you book?

Some third-party operators will customize a tour for you or your group, so you can spend more time at the places you most want to see. Sometimes these tour groups are also smaller than the large cruise ship tours — which can carry 30 to 60 people in a bus — so you will spend less time waiting for everyone.

Finally, some ports are simply wonderful to walk around, popping into shops and local restaurants or bars, going where you will. I've skipped tours in places like Key West, Florida; Tallinn, Estonia; Monaco; Nassau, Bahamas; Skagway, Alaska; Geiranger, Norway; and San Juan, Puerto Rico. A map and a guidebook got me where I wanted to go.

How much are shore excursions on a cruise?

Cruise shore excursion prices vary widely depending on the cost of living in the cruise destination, what type of activity is involved and whether it's a full- or half-day tour. Young children often pay a reduced rate for tours.

Looking at Princess Cruises ' shore excursions in Grand Cayman, a 2.5-hour stingray swim costs $70 per person, a 5-hour scenic island drive costs $100, and a 4-hour, two-tank scuba dive costs $180. In Juneau, Alaska, a 3-hour tour to the Mendenhall Glacier visitor center costs $50 per person. A 3-hour gold panning activity and salmon bake costs $125, while a 2.25-hour tour to take a helicopter ride to the top of the glacier, where you can walk around on the ice for half an hour, costs $420.

Some cruise lines, such as Viking and Regent Seven Seas Cruises , include the cost of basic shore excursions in their cruise fares. If you don't care to do any specialty tours, you might be able to get all your port activities for free. Other lines, such as Norwegian Cruise Line , offer discounted tours or shore excursion credit as booking promotions .

Related: 8 tips for booking the best cruise shore excursion for your money

What's the best way to book shore excursions?

If you plan to book shore excursions through your cruise line, you have a couple of options of how to book them.

You can book your tours online in advance, or have your travel agent do it for you. This is the best route if there's a ship's tour you absolutely want to take and you don't want to risk its selling out. Book your tours the minute they open for reservations. When my parents traveled on a luxury Regent Seven Seas cruise, they said that waiting until the next morning to book tours meant that some of their choices were sold out.

The downside to booking tours in advance is that some cruise lines require that you pay for the tours in full, rather than putting them on your final cruise bill. It means you're out the money in advance and it can be difficult to use onboard credit to cover the cost of excursions booked online.

Related: Avoid these mistakes when booking cruise shore excursions

Alternatively, you can wait until you're on the ship and book your excursion in person at the shore excursions desk. You'll be able to ask the staff questions about the tours, and the charges will be added to your final cruise bill. However, you do run the risk that a popular tour might be sold out by the time you're ready to book.

The same is true with independent tours. Most people organize these ahead of time through a tour operator or travel agent. However, in popular cruise ports, there are often representatives waiting at the port or at a tourist office who can book you on same-day tours if space is available.

Is it cheaper to book shore excursions on the ship?

No. Most cruise lines either charge the same prices for shore excursions booked online and on board or offer a discount for tours purchased in advance. For example, Royal Caribbean often advertises up to 30% off select tours reserved ahead of the sailing.

Do I need to tip on shore excursions?

Whether you're on a cruise line sponsored or independent shore excursion, a best practice is to tip your tour guides at the end of the tour. Exceptions are if tips are included in the price or if you're visiting a country with a non-tipping culture, where offering cash would be awkward.

Related: Ultimate guide to tipping on cruise ships

Tipping is a personal matter, and there are no hard and fast rules. I canvassed TPG's cruise team and we agreed that we give roughly $5 to $10 per person for half-day tours and $10 to $20 per person for full-day excursions, adjusted for service and quality. Tip non-guide drivers roughly $2 per person in your party.

You'll likely want to tip more for customized, private tours — consider 5 to 20% of the cost of the tour.

How do I get the most from my cruise shore excursion?

The key to getting the most from your cruise shore excursion is to know what you want and make sure the tour description matches your expectations. I find that the more I cruise, the less I take ship-sponsored shore excursions because they don't offer exactly what I want.

For example, if you're considering a bus tour, make sure you understand how much time will be spent sitting on the bus and how much time will be at the destination or attraction, whether you will be looking at or going inside key attractions and whether there's free time to explore. If it's an activity, like snorkeling or a helicopter tour, read up on how much time is spent in transit and prep and how much time you will spend actually doing the activity.

Be sure to note the fitness level required and don't try to take on more than you're able to do. If you struggle with mobility, check to see if there's a lot of walking on uneven ground like cobblestones.

Related: 11 cruise ship excursions to avoid

If the tour takes place over lunchtime, check to see if a meal is included or if you have time to pick up something to eat.

Personally, I find that organized tours are best when the excursion is an activity I can't do on my own (such as kayaking, zip lining or a winery tour); when long distances are involved where I don't want to bother with public transportation or renting a car on a one-day visit; or when the culture is foreign enough that independent exploration would be tricky. Sometimes you also need an expert guide, such as in Pompeii, to know what you're seeing.

Bottom line

Shore excursions are a great way to make the most of your time in port, but you might get the most value out of a mix of guided tours and independent exploration. Choose the best option based on your budget and interests, and remember to look at both ship-sponsored and independent tour and activity options. And if you feel like staying on board one day while your ship is docked in a port that doesn't interest you, that's okay, too.

Planning a cruise? Start with these stories:

• The 5 most desirable cabin locations on any cruise ship
• A beginners guide to picking a cruise line
• The 8 worst cabin locations on any cruise ship
• The ultimate guide to what to pack for a cruise
• A quick guide to the most popular cruise lines
• 21 tips and tricks that will make your cruise go smoothly
• Top ways cruisers waste money
• The ultimate guide to choosing a cruise ship cabin

Editorial disclaimer: Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, airline or hotel chain, and have not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of these entities.

Flavors of Cayman Island Tour

George Town: Learn about Caymanian's past and present way of living en route to your your first stop. Local Craft Market: This market is full of local artisans showcasing their handicrafts, made from materials that are indigenous on the island. Cayman Spirits Company: Enjoy a guided tour of the distillery and tastings of the different flavored rums. Rum Cake Factory: Enjoy tastings of the sweet rum cakes which are exceptionally marked "Made in Cayman"! Local Lunch: A sumptuous lunch and the chance to learn how these local foods are prepared and cooked awaits you. Lunch includes soup of the day or salad, main course, sweet plantain dessert and a beverage (fruit punch or soda). What’s Included:

• Lunch at local restaurant.
• Tastings at rum cake factory and Cayman Spirits.

What to Bring: CCash or credit/debit card for additional purchases. Good to Know: For any dietary restrictions, please advise the Shore Excursions desk on board prior to the call to Grand Cayman.