royal caribbean cruise excursions reviews

Best Caribbean shore excursions

Editor's Note

Whether your ideal cruise vacation involves lounging, exploring or learning something new, there's a Caribbean shore excursion designed to help you find your bliss. In a year-round destination like the Caribbean, most of the fun revolves around the sun, sand and sea. History, culture and food also top the lists of excursions available in the region.

You might be surprised by how many Caribbean islands have interesting geological features not found anywhere else in the world. Shore excursions offer plenty of adventurous ways to explore these attractions, from caves to volcanoes.

In our quest for the best Caribbean shore excursions, our goal was not to find the most popular tours but the experiences and attractions that make a destination stand out. Let's jump in with a look at our favorite tours.

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Prices vary among third-party sellers and from cruise line to cruise line. To account for that, we are using the following price key to provide an idea of the costs to expect for each tour.

• $$ = $51-$99
• $$$ = $100-$199
• $$$$ = $200-$499
• $$$$$ = $500 and up

Best Eastern Caribbean shore excursions

Virgin gorda and the baths, tortola.

You can visit many gorgeous beaches in the Caribbean, but The Baths is about as unique as they come in terms of pure scenic beauty. The beach features giant boulders and stone formations that create hidden pocket beaches and spots where the sand and water rush in and out. Be prepared to climb large rocks and negotiate ladders along the trail between Devil's Bay and The Baths.

This area is part of the National Parks Trust of the Virgin Islands. To get there, you'll take a 45-minute boat ride from Tortola to nearby Virgin Gorda.

• 4 1/2 hours, challenging, $$$

Related: Caribbean cruise guide: Best itineraries, planning tips and things to do

Bioluminescent Kayak Adventure, Puerto Rico

This excursion out of San Juan starts at dusk and finishes well after dark. You'll travel by van to the eastern edge of the island to a beach near a bioluminescent bay. After receiving brief kayaking instructions, life vests and lights, you'll set off through the mangroves and into a small, sheltered bay. Every stroke of your oars sets off sparks of light in the water as you stir the tiny glowing organisms.

Availability is limited to cruises that stay in port overnight in San Juan or pre- or postcruise stays. Still, this excursion made our list because it is simply not something you can do in many places in the world. Kayaking in the mangroves in the dark was one of the coolest things I've ever done, and the bioluminescence was an incredible extra bonus.

• Six hours, moderate, $$$

America's Cup 12-Meter Regatta, St. Maarten

Are you up for a yacht race? You don't need any experience sailing to participate. You can simply go along for the ride or, with some instruction, help sail the boat as you race to the finish. It's possible to hop on a sailboat and cruise around sipping fruity drinks on any island in the Caribbean. What you cannot do everywhere is help sail the boat or participate in a race. St. Maarten is known for sailing — why not join the fun?

• 2 1/2 hours, easy to challenging, $$$

National Park Snorkeling Excursion to St. John, St. Thomas

This excursion simplifies the complicated process of getting from the cruise pier on St. Thomas to the island of St. John, home of the Virgin Islands National Park. You'll get to see a bit of St. Thomas on the way to the boat dock, then enjoy a beautiful boat ride before your snorkeling begins. This spot boasts some of the best snorkeling in the Caribbean because the park encompasses more than 18,000 acres of submerged land; it includes 45 species of hard coral, 400 species of reef-associated fish and 17 documented species of whales and dolphins.

• 3 1/2 hours, easy to moderate, $$

Related: Best Caribbean cruise tips to help you make the most of your time aboard and ashore

Montserrat Volcano Flightseeing, Antigua

Helicopter flightseeing is a popular shore excursion in other destinations, but it's not something you'll find in most of the Caribbean. This flight offers the opportunity to see a still-active volcano from the air and experience the beauty of the islands from a unique perspective. You might also spot sea life like whales, dolphins and turtles below as you fly between the islands.

• Two hours, easy, $$$$$

Best Western Caribbean shore excursions

Blue hole and konoko falls, jamaica.

Waterfall excursions are a big deal in Jamaica, with multiple excursions featuring the often overcrowded Dunn's River Falls. This tour from Ocho Rios takes you off the beaten path to two slightly less crowded sets of falls. Blue Hole is an idyllic waterfall-fed swimming hole where more daring visitors can jump from heights into the pool below. Konoko Falls is within a botanical garden featuring parrots, crocodiles and tropical birds found on the island. Here, you can climb to the top of the falls for a better look and enjoy a swim in natural pools.

• 4 1/2 hours, moderate, $$$

Flavors of Jamaica

Jerk chicken is one of the Caribbean's best-known dishes. Finding an excursion that allows you to experience it firsthand with a cooking class that teaches you about the flavors and culture of Jamaica is possible in most Jamaican ports. Most tours have you cooking your own lunch under the tutelage of a Jamaican chef. In Ocho Rios, a visit to a Jamaican estate house is a bonus.

• Three hours, easy, $$$

Related: Eastern Caribbean vs. Western Caribbean cruises: Which itinerary will I like more?

Xocolati — The Chocolate Experience, Roatan

You might think you know chocolate, but Mayan chocolate is a palate-pleaser not well-known around the globe. This excursion from Roatan, Honduras, allows you to learn and taste how chocolate fits into the Mayan culture. Part cultural education, part Honduran traditional lunch, this tour is a delightful option for Roatan cruisers eager to skip the sun and sand to experience a local meal.

• Three hours, easy, $$

Cave Tubing, Belize

Cave tubing is the only super popular excursion that made the list. Belize is well known for cave tubing, and we didn't want you to miss out. The drive through the jungle to get to the caves is half the fun of the excursion. Upon arrival, and after a safety briefing, you'll quickly get cool and wet floating through a tunnel of limestone. You'll want a waterproof camera for this one.

• 5 1/2 hours, moderate, $$

Discover Scuba Diving From Shore, Grand Cayman

If you've ever thought of learning to scuba dive, a Discover Scuba course is the way to try it. It doesn't take hours of classes or require loads of money. Plus, if you are going to try it, you might as well try it in one of the best diving locations on the planet. Not to mention, doing it from shore is less intimidating than trying it for the first time from a boat.

Several dive operators set up shop right at the shore within walking distance of the tender docks. You can make your own arrangements with the dive shops in advance to participate in a Discover Scuba class or sign up for a ship's excursion if there is one. You'll learn the basics of breathing through a regulator, then enjoy a guided dive around the reef just offshore (the reason ships anchor offshore at Grand Cayman).

• 2 1/2 hours, challenging, $$$

Save a Sea Turtle Experience, Cozumel

Most cruisers park their sunscreened bodies on a towel in the sand at one of the many beaches in Cozumel, Mexico , but you do have other options. Why not try something as cool as participating in a sea turtle hatching?

When sea turtles hatch, not all of them make it out of the nest and into the sea. This educational excursion allows you to help the little guys that didn't make it out. Under the careful watch of experts, you'll dig in the sand at already-hatched nesting areas. You'll look for hatchlings that can either be helped into the ocean, or retrieved and raised in a sanctuary until they are strong enough for release. Bonus: Tiny baby sea turtles are adorable.

• Four hours, moderate, $$$

Best Southern Caribbean shore excursions

Whale and dolphin safari, dominica.

There is exactly one place on the planet with a known resident pod of nonmigrating sperm whales, and it's off the shores of Dominica. During a guided tour, you can see them from a boat that's licensed to seek out both whales and dolphins; sperm whales aren't the only cetaceans that pass through this area. As with any whale-watching tour, there aren't any guarantees, but this one puts you in the right place for sightings.

• 3 1/2 hours, easy, $$

Related: The best Caribbean cruises for every type of traveler

Cave Snorkeling, Bonaire

Bonaire has dozens of accessible caves, some filled with actively growing stalactites and stalagmites. Most cruise excursions will take you to at least two of them. These tours are not for the faint of heart.

The hardest part is climbing into the caves. Some involve ladders, and others are more challenging. They may require you to don a climbing harness and pick your way down a rock wall with the help of an expert guide.

Once inside the cave, snorkeling allows you to experience the incredible clarity of the water that has filtered through rock crevices to form pools. You might need to take a brief swim through a passage leading to another room in the cavern. If you're up for it, you'll return to the ship with a remarkable story. This is near the top of the list of amazing things I have done.

• Three hours, challenging, $$

Sky Canopy and Aerial Tram, St. Lucia

Many islands offer adventure courses. However, St. Lucia's geography allows visitors the unique chance to experience a true treetop zip line experience among the island's mountain peaks. Begin with a gondola ride into the mountains, ending near the first zip line tower. The lines are interspersed with rope bridges, making the whole course an adventure. Bonus: There's a cold beer waiting for you at the cantina when you finish.

• 4 1/2-5 hours, moderate, $$$

Spice and Waterfall Tour, Grenada

Called the "Isle of Spice," Grenada is the ideal destination for a tour focusing on one of its biggest exports. During the tour, you'll learn all about nutmeg (Grenada is the world's second-largest producer and exporter of the spice), as well as other island-grown spices like pimento, clove and cinnamon. The waterfall portion of the excursion lets you explore Grenada's stunning Annandale waterfall, including a refreshing swim in a cool mountain pool.

• Four hours, easy to moderate, $$

Half-Day Land Rover Safari, Aruba

Some of Aruba's best sites require a 4×4 to get there. The Land Rover option is a bit more comfortable than the ATVs many people choose. You'll visit the famous California Lighthouse and the more picturesque side of the island. On most of these excursions, you'll end up at a beach, so wear your swimsuit and bring a towel.

Harrison's Cave Exploration, Barbados

A motorized tram takes you through winding tunnels within this active cave (meaning water flows through it). Formed over thousands of years, the limestone cave is home to a remarkable gallery of stalagmites and stalactites, as well as sparkling emerald pools. The cave also features a great hall with a ceiling height of almost 50 feet.

Bottom line

Shore excursions in the Caribbean give you the opportunity to explore beyond the pier or even the city where your ship docks. Whether you crave water sports, wildlife or a taste of local food, you can easily find an activity to enhance your time ashore. When your ship stays in port all day (as they often do in the Caribbean), half-day excursions leave you plenty of time for those other cruise basics, like shopping, lounging on the beach and kicking back with a tropical drink.

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Odyssey of the Seas

Launched in July 2021, the Odyssey of the Seas holds 5,498 passengers and 1,550 crew members. Royal Caribbean's latest ship is the first Quantum Ultra Class vessel to sail in the United States. As a member of this class, Odyssey of the Seas offers standout amenities like RipCord by iFLY, billed as the only skydiving simulator available at sea, and the FlowRider, a 40-foot-long surf simulator. There is also the North Star observation capsule, which hoists guests 300 feet above sea level over the cruise ship to enjoy unparalleled views below. 

In addition to these thrilling activities, the ship comes equipped with standard facilities like pools, an arcade, a spa, a fitness center with classes, kids clubs and shopping venues. There are also 15 dining options, ranging from Japanese fare to all-you-can-eat buffets to Starbucks. For drinks, the ship offers nine bars and lounges, giving passengers plenty of places to enjoy libations. Entertainment options include theatrical performances, live music, a casino, outdoor movie nights and more. 

As far as cabins go, cruisers can choose between Interior, Ocean View, and Balcony staterooms, as well as suite accommodations and new Virtual Balcony rooms. These technologically advanced cabins feature floor-to-ceiling displays that project real-time views of the sights and sounds from the outside of the ship. 

Odyssey of the Seas sails to ports in Europe, as well as to various destinations in the Caribbean from Fort Lauderdale, Florida and Cape Liberty, New Jersey.

Symphony of the Seas

The 6,680-passenger, 2,200-crew-member Symphony of the Seas set sail in 2018 and features 18 decks packed with activities.

For heart-pounding fun, travelers will find a surf simulator, an indoor ice skating rink, two 40-foot rock walls, a zip line and a 10-story slide. Meanwhile, relaxation seekers can unwind in the spa, sip cocktails made by robotic bartenders or stroll through the Central Park -inspired neighborhood.

Onboard snacks and meals are served at 20 quick-service and sit-down eateries. The Main Dining Room is where the ship's traditional, complimentary dinners are provided nightly, but specialty options like a steakhouse, a bistro and a Johnny Rockets outpost are also available. What's more, cruisers can dine at Jamie's Italian, a restaurant helmed by celebrity chef Jamie Oliver.

After filling up on gourmet fare, passengers can retreat to their cabins, all of which include work desks, flat-screen TVs and minibars. Guests can choose from 149-square-foot Interior Staterooms, some of which have virtual balconies with real-time views of the ocean, or opt for upgraded cabins with furnished balconies and up to 1,524 square feet of space. Select suites also feature two bedrooms, whirlpool tubs and dining rooms.

Symphony of the Seas departs from Cape Liberty, New Jersey, Miami , Fort Lauderdale, Rome and Barcelona for sailings throughout the Caribbean and Europe.

U.S. News Insider Tip: If you’re on one of the 19 Royal Caribbean ships that have a FlowRider, like Symphony of the Seas (which has two!), reserve a private lesson with a pro. For a small fee, you'll save yourself some embarrassment and get more ride time. – Skye Sherman, Contributor

Wonder of the Seas

Wonder of the Seas, which embarked on its maiden voyage in March 2022, holds 7,084 passengers and 2,204 crew members. The ship measures 1,188 feet long and 215 feet wide, and it weighs 235,600 gross tons. It surpasses its sister ship, Symphony of the Seas , as one of the largest cruise ships in the world.  

Guests can enjoy plenty of thrill activities on board, such as the Ultimate Abyss – a 10-story dark tunnel slide – or the 40-foot-long FlowRider surf stimulator. The ship also offers a fitness center, shopping venues, rock climbing, a carousel and clubs for kids and teens. When it's time to dine, cruisers have the option of 21 dining venues ranging from Italian fare to Southern cuisine. Travelers can also indulge in a few cocktails at 14 bars and lounges.

Accommodations include Interior, Ocean View, Balcony and Suite staterooms. If you're looking for something more spacious, check out the ship's all-new Suite Neighborhood. Located on the upper decks, these suites offer guests ample private quarters to recharge during the cruise. Amenities included in the exclusive suites include priority boarding, a members-only dining facility and a dedicated check-in line. For families, the new neighborhood may be of particular interest because it features the Ultimate Family Suite. The family suite offers two floors of space with stunning ocean views, in-suite movies and video games and a kids slide between the floors.  

Wonder of the Seas sails from Orlando , Florida, to ports in the Caribbean.

Allure of the Seas

The 6,826-passenger Allure of the Seas, unveiled in 2010, is among the largest cruise ships in the world. There are a whopping 2,054 crew members on board to cater to passengers' needs. Along with signature line amenities like rock climbing walls and ice skating rinks, the ship houses seven unique neighborhoods with a variety of activities, shows and dining options. The ship underwent a $165 million refurbishment in 2020, which added approximately 50 new staterooms, the Ultimate Abyss (the tallest slide at sea), redesigned kids and teens spaces, new dining venues and more.

Other standout features include a zip line that descends 10 decks, two surf simulators and a science lab. Plus, with 19 dining options – and a Starbucks at sea – every member of the family will be satisfied.

In terms of lodging, about 65% of cabins feature balconies, and all staterooms are appointed with TVs and minifridges. Interior staterooms are the most economical option, but those who splurge on Suites are granted larger balconies and concierge service. Crowd-free areas might be difficult to find due to the outrageous capacity of the ship, but some recent cruisers praise the nonstop activity and entertainment. 

Allure of the Seas departs from Miami, Orlando, Florida, and Galveston , Texas, for sailings in the Caribbean.

Harmony of the Seas

Welcoming up to 6,687 passengers and 2,200 crew members, Harmony of the Seas is one of the largest cruise ships in the world. Launched in 2016 and tuned up in 2021, the ship features Royal Caribbean staples like surf simulators and rock climbing walls, as well as innovative amenities like the Ultimate Abyss (a 10-story slide) and three multistory waterslides. Plus, while younger passengers play in the arcade or at age-appropriate clubs, adults can relax at the spa or sip cocktails at multiple bars and lounges.

After working up an appetite, guests can choose from 20 dining options. Past cruisers especially praised the multitude of specialty restaurants, which range from Mexican to Japanese fare and require reservations and an additional fee.

When it comes to lodging, Harmony of the Seas offers a wide variety of cabin categories, with more than 70% of cabins featuring balconies. While Interior staterooms are the most economical choice, those looking for a little more space and luxury should consider upgrading to a Suite, which range from Junior Suites to four-bedroom Villa Suites. While all cabins offer flat-screen TVs and minibars, suites include access to a private restaurant, lounge and sun deck.

Harmony of the Seas sails from Miami and Galveston, Texas , to destinations throughout the Caribbean.

Mariner of the Seas

Introduced in 2003 and overhauled in mid-2018, Mariner of the Seas features passenger favorites like the Escape Room, the Izumi Japanese restaurant and a surf simulator. During the ship's refurbishment, Royal Caribbean also added 100 new staterooms, updated cabins and public spaces and added fan-favorite restaurant Jamie's Italian by chef Jamie Oliver.

Though the 4,000-passenger ship features a 1-to-3 crew-to-passenger ratio, recent cruisers said the vessel still maintains a high level of customer service. When it comes to dining, the ship offers 11 venues, including a multilevel main dining room. The ship's 10 bars and lounges and onboard entertainment, which includes Broadway-style shows, earn a consistent nod of approval from past cruisers. Kids have plenty of age-appropriate entertainment, too, including youth programs and teen lounges. Mariner of the Seas touts three pools and six whirlpools. These areas of the ship attract a high concentration of children.

Past travelers were generally complimentary of the staterooms. Similar to its sister ships, Mariner of the Seas offers four stateroom categories: Interior, Ocean View, Balcony and Suite. All staterooms include flat-screen TVs and Wi-Fi accessibility. 

Mariner of the Seas departs from  Orlando , Florida, and Galveston, Texas, for sailings in the Caribbean, Bermuda and the  Bahamas .

Adventure of the Seas

Adventure of the Seas (first launched in 2001) underwent an extensive renovation in January 2018. It boasts modern amenities like an outdoor movie screen and Wi-Fi (for an extra fee). Other highlights include an ice skating rink, a surf simulator and a rock climbing wall. 

There are seven dining venues across the ship, the newest of which is the Izumi Japanese specialty restaurant. While adults can relax at the ship's nine bars and lounges, youngsters can mix and mingle at age-appropriate youth clubs and a teens-only disco. Among other onboard amenities, Adventure of the Seas features an abundance of pools and whirlpools, including an indoor/outdoor pool and lounge area exclusive to adults called the Solarium.

When it comes to lodging, recent cruisers found staterooms to be comfortable and spacious. Cabins come in four categories – Interior, Ocean View, Balcony and Suite – and about 60% offer ocean views. The ship's 2018 revamp brought with it new Interior and Ocean View staterooms, as well as a new Suite Lounge. While it may be difficult to find quiet spaces on the 3,807-passenger ship, recent guests were still complimentary of the service on board and the 1-to-3 crew-to-guest ratio. 

Adventure of the Seas sails to various destinations in the Caribbean from Fort Lauderdale , Florida and Orlando , Florida. The ship also completes transatlantic voyages.

Oasis of the Seas

The 6,771-passenger Oasis of the Seas saw an extensive refurbishment in late 2019, unveiling the line's first dedicated karaoke venue, a live music space with a large dance floor, brand-new dining options (including a barbecue restaurant), three waterslides, new bars and more. 

While this ship is not for those seeking secluded spaces, most cruisers say the seven distinct onboard neighborhoods make up for that. The behemoth ship features designer boutiques and larger staterooms than other ships in the fleet.

Like other Royal Caribbean vessels, Oasis of the Seas offers four cabin categories: Interior, Ocean View, Balcony and Suite. Interior rooms average about 150 square feet, while Suite category cabins can span anywhere from 287 to 1,524 square feet and include added amenities like Jacuzzis and expansive balconies.

While recent cruisers were impressed with the ship's abundant amenities, they noted that with 2,109 crew members, there aren't many tailored onboard experiences – especially when the ship is filled to capacity. Oasis of the Seas caters to those looking for nonstop onboard action.

Oasis of the Seas sails from Miami , Fort Lauderdale, Florida, Barcelona and Rome to destinations in the Bahamas , the Caribbean, Europe and the Mediterranean. The ship also offers transatlantic voyages.

U.S. News Insider Tip: On Oasis-class ships, stop at Vitality Café for protein shakes and fresh juices. – Skye Sherman, Contributor

Vision of the Seas

Most recently updated in late 2018 (with the exception of routine maintenance in 2022), the 2,514-passenger, 742-crew-member Vision of the Seas offers Royal Caribbean staples like diverse dining venues and nonstop entertainment. Past cruisers especially praise the ship's appealing decor and the Solarium, an adults-only pool and lounge area. 

In terms of food, travelers can choose from the main dining room, the buffet and several casual eateries. Cruisers recommend springing for a meal at the ship's specialty restaurants, which range from the Chops Grille steakhouse to the Izumi Asian venue. Food in the main dining room received mixed reviews, but travelers praised the service around the ship.

When it comes to daytime activities, guests can try rock climbing, swim in the pools (which can become crowded) or play games in the casino. There are also sushi- and cupcake-making classes available.

In terms of lodging, Vision of the Seas touts four staterooms categories: Interior, Ocean View, Balcony and Suite. Interior cabins range from 136 to 252 square feet, while Suites on the opposite end of the spectrum range from 243 to 1,140 square feet. Opt for a balcony-equipped Suite and you'll enjoy cushier extras like whirlpool bathtubs. All cabins include amenities like flat-screen TVs and vanity areas. 

Vision of the Seas departs from Baltimore for itineraries in the Caribbean, New England and Canada.

Anthem of the Seas

Debuted in 2015, Anthem of the Seas offers impressive amenities like the first at-sea skydiving simulator and a 360-degree observation pod that allows cruisers to dangle 300 feet above the sea.

Staterooms also boasts innovative features, including family-friendly adjoining cabins and Interior rooms outfitted with "virtual balconies" that show real-time views of the ship's location. All cabin categories (Interior, Ocean View, Balcony and Suite) include flat-screen TVs and minifridges.

Guests won't need to spend much time in their cabins, though. The ship offers a multitude of activities, ranging from daytime spa treatments, rock climbing and bumper cars to nightly shows and casino games. When it's time to eat, travelers can choose from 14 dining venues, including six signature restaurants for an extra fee. Guests praised the new technology on board, including smart wristbands that eliminate the need for room keys.

With a capacity of 4,905 guests and 1,500 crew members, Anthem of the Seas passengers can expect crowded common areas during peak times. 

Anthem of the Seas departs from Dubai, United Arab Emirates, Cape Liberty, New Jersey,  Singapore and Southampton, England, for sailings in the Bahamas , the Caribbean, Asia and Europe. The ship also offers transatlantic voyages.

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Reviews of RCI excursions

By CaptJerry51 , November 19, 2023 in Royal Caribbean International

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CaptJerry51

I have my first cruise on RCI next June and am looking at their excursions.  I am finding their descriptions a little light in content and RCI does not provide for reviews to be posted.  I would like to be able to find out a little bit more about those I am interested in.

My questions are:

- should I assume that everything land based is done via a 40-50 passenger bus - Yes?  The description says nothing about the transportation.  This may be by design.

- where can I see reviews from prior passengers of each tour?  Often these reviews add a lot of detail - the good and not so good about the excursion.

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smokeybandit

Google the name of the excursion. You're likely to find reviews, though not necessarily specific to RC passengers. but you can still find what you need.

with some good googling of the shore excursion title, you can usually find the tour provider website or a page on trip advisor/viator

cruiselvr04

For a very short period of time Royal did have reviews.  I think a lot were so negative they quit doing it.   

The best thing I can say is stay away from anything that says panoramic or describes you will drive by….it also sometimes says how long the bus ride is.  I google how far what you’re going to see is from the pier.  

6 minutes ago, cruiselvr04 said: The best thing I can say is stay away from anything that says panoramic or describes you will drive by….it also sometimes says how long the bus ride is.  I google how far what you’re going to see is from the pier.  

Lol I'm ok with panoramic views we drive by. The ones I stay away from say they are a walking tour. I can do a walking tour on my own, i want to be driven to see the sights. Ac included. 

Mum2Mercury

3 hours ago, cruiselvr04 said: For a very short period of time Royal did have reviews.  I think a lot were so negative they quit doing it. 

Cruise ships do not excel at shore excursions.  

Remember you have the option to go with private tours.  

3 hours ago, cruiselvr04 said: The best thing I can say is stay away from anything that says panoramic or describes you will drive by….it also sometimes says how long the bus ride is.  I google how far what you’re going to see is from the pier.  

Totally agree.  I have no interest in "city tours" or driving past interesting things. 

On our first cruise we didn't think about the distance between the pier and our excursion site, so we were surprised by a 45 minute ride.  We didn't know what we didn't know.  Yes, now I always use Google to check how far the drive is ... it's part of my "Is this worthwhile?" thought process.  

3 hours ago, firefly333 said: Lol I'm ok with panoramic views we drive by. The ones I stay away from say they are a walking tour. I can do a walking tour on my own, i want to be driven to see the sights. Ac included. 

This isn't my idea of fun at all ... but that's why it's essential to know what's going to happen on your excursion!  Check out your potential excursions on this board or other online websites.  

livingonthebeach

The ship sanctioned excursions are truly hit or miss. I've been on great ones and not so good ones. The only real advantage to these tours is knowing if there's a problem getting back on time, you won't miss the ship = the ship won't leave you stranded in a foreign port. Is it worth the extra money? Some may say yes due to the removal of stress in getting back on time. Will you miss out on a fantastic local tour for less money? Probably. 

island lady

Indeed, RCI used to post reviews (with pictures even) of the tours.  But that was years ago.  If it was due to so many bad reviews...I think the fix should have been to improve the tours and make them as described...which many are not even close!   😠

Hit and miss on those tours for us...IMHO I would say 30-40% are actually worth it, and that is being optimistic.  And like mentioned...we only do the RCI tours in cities we are not familiar with, and do feel better knowing RCI is responsible for getting us back to the ship.  

2 hours ago, island lady said: Indeed, RCI used to post reviews (with pictures even) of the tours.  But that was years ago.  If it was due to so many bad reviews... I think the fix should have been to improve the tours and make them as described...which many are not even close!    😠   Hit and miss on those tours for us...IMHO I would say 30-40% are actually worth it, and that is being optimistic.  And like mentioned...we only do the RCI tours in cities we are not familiar with, and do feel better knowing RCI is responsible for getting us back to the ship.  

Yes, absolutely agree. Often they are just using the supplier's own description and those frequently leave a lot to be desired. They really need to have an actual RC employee check out every excursion that they sell and then do proper write-ups like Princess have on their website.

One other benefit I like having with a ship-sponsored excursion is the ease of getting a refund if a port call is switched or missed.

I wish you could at least (easily) look at what excursions they offer even if you haven't booked a cruise with that port. I sometimes use that as a deciding factor for deciding on a cruise if ports are the focus (looking at you Falmouth!) Carnival does have reviews on their shore excursions and often have the same tours (or at least same beach/activity location). Plus, you can look them up from their website without having a cruise booked.

Sometimes it's nice to read reviews from a cruiser's perspective as other reviews may be from those on a land tour. Just go to the "Explore" tab and look all the way to the right. Hopefully it will give you an idea of what you are looking for. If you see a tour you like but Royal doesn't offer it, you can probably find it to do on your own outside of the ship's excursions.

2 hours ago, FionaMG said:   Yes, absolutely agree. Often they are just using the supplier's own description and those frequently leave a lot to be desired. They really need to have an actual RC employee check out every excursion that they sell and then do proper write-ups like Princess have on their website.   One other benefit I like having with a ship-sponsored excursion is the ease of getting a refund if a port call is switched or missed.

Totally agree.  Have mentioned that several times to the shore excursion staff, after a bad tour.  "Please put someone on these tours at least once to check them out for accuracy".   We are paying RCI for the product, and they are getting their cut.  Time to get their head out of the sand.  😉  

I use TripAdvisor to see what any port has to offer. Sometimes I use the ship excursion, sometimes I use private tours. Mostly I had good experiences with both. Occasionally there are glitches in both cases. My interests lie in history and culture not beaches.

Look at past cruises for the same ports on Cruise Critic. Sometimes passengers have recommendations or criticisms.

On 11/19/2023 at 5:18 PM, cruiselvr04 said: stay away from anything that says panoramic

Nothing wrong with a senior tour.  RCI is only an agent.

I started looking at the Holland America website. They seem to have similar tours but actually show the reviews. I have become very picky with what cruise ship tours I book.

Look at carnival website as well. 

• 9 months later...

khakiberrie

On 11/19/2023 at 1:54 PM, CaptJerry51 said: I have my first cruise on RCI next June and am looking at their excursions.  I am finding their descriptions a little light in content and RCI does not provide for reviews to be posted.  I would like to be able to find out a little bit more about those I am interested in.   My questions are: - should I assume that everything land based is done via a 40-50 passenger bus - Yes?  The description says nothing about the transportation.  This may be by design. - where can I see reviews from prior passengers of each tour?  Often these reviews add a lot of detail - the good and not so good about the excursion.

I’m also looking for RCCL shore excursion reviews.  I’m sailing on a TA in April 2025. Why aren’t there any mention of ship’s tours?

4 minutes ago, khakiberrie said: I’m also looking for RCCL shore excursion reviews.  I’m sailing on a TA in April 2025. Why aren’t there any mention of ship’s tours?

I have a TA in may 2025 and a 10 day leg afterwards and I've booked all my excursions thru rcl. Have you looked in the planner? I wouldnt wait as many of mine are already sold out. 

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Caribbean Charms Unveiled

• San Juan Shore Excursions

There's a wealth of shore excursions awaiting you that promise to maximize your time in this slice of Caribbean heaven.

One popular option for adventure seekers is the Campo Rico ATV tour. This thrilling excursion takes you on an off-road expedition through the scenic countryside of Campo Rico, located just outside of San Juan. With a guide leading the way, you'll navigate through lush forests, cross rivers and conquer rugged terrain, all while experiencing the thrill of riding an ATV. It's the perfect activity for adrenaline-chasers and nature lovers alike.

For those who prefer a more leisurely experience, horseback riding along the beautiful beaches of Puerto Rico is a fantastic option. With the sun on your back and the sound of the ocean waves in the distance, you'll take a relaxing ride along the pristine coastline, enjoying the stunning views and fresh sea breeze. This activity is suitable for riders of all levels and is a great way to connect with nature and immerse yourself in the beauty of the island.

Scuba diving is another popular choice for adventure enthusiasts visiting San Juan. With its crystal-clear waters and diverse marine life, Puerto Rico offers an unforgettable underwater experience. Whether you're a seasoned diver or a beginner looking to try something new, there are plenty of dive sites to explore, from vibrant coral reefs to sunken shipwrecks. Dive instructors are available to guide you through the underwater world, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience.

Nature lovers will also enjoy the El Yunque Rainforest Drive shore excursion. El Yunque is the only tropical rainforest in the United States National Forest System and is home to an incredible array of plant and animal species. On this tour, you'll embark on a scenic drive through the rainforest, stopping at various viewpoints to enjoy panoramic vistas of lush greenery and cascading waterfalls. It's a truly magical experience that will leave you in awe of Puerto Rico's natural beauty.

If you're interested in exploring the cultural and historical side of San Juan, a city tour is a must. This excursion will take you to the heart of the city, where you'll visit iconic landmarks such as the historic San Juan National Historic Site and the lively streets of Old San Juan. Learn about the city's colonial past and immerse yourself in its culture as you stroll through cobblestone streets and alleys lined with colorful buildings. It's a fascinating way to discover the rich heritage of Puerto Rico.

For those who enjoy indulging in local flavors, a rum-tasting tour or a cooking class is the perfect choice. Puerto Rico is known for its rum production and a rum-tasting tour will take you to some of the island's best distilleries, where you'll learn about the rum-making process and sample different varieties of this beloved spirit. Alternatively, a cooking class will teach you how to prepare traditional Puerto Rican dishes, allowing you to take a piece of the island's culinary culture home with you.

San Juan also offers a wide range of excursions that cater to families, couples and seniors. Family excursions may include activities such as snorkeling, beach outings or visits to interactive museums. Couples can enjoy romantic sunset cruises, beach picnics or even helicopter rides for a bird's eye view of the city. Food excursions are perfect for culinary enthusiasts, with options such as street food tours, chocolate tastings and visits to local food markets. Lastly, senior excursions may focus on more relaxed activities, such as scenic drives, nature walks or visits to historical sites.

San Juan, Puerto Rico is a haven for all kinds of travelers, offering a wide range of excursions to suit every interest and preference. Whether you're seeking adrenaline-pumping outings or leisurely cultural experiences, there is something for everyone in this beautiful Caribbean destination. So, make the most of your time in San Juan and embark on a memorable shore excursion that will leave you with lasting memories of this enchanting city.

Experience San Juan Shore Excursions with these sailings

Complete your adventure with these shore excursions