The sun-drenched, picturesque shores of Jamaica offer cruise passengers a welcome escape after their time on the high seas. Once on island, they can find a variety of activities suitable for families wishing to spend quality time together, couples looking for romance and individuals seeking an adrenaline rush to name a few.
“Though cruise passengers are on island for a short period of time, they will appreciate that many of Jamaica’s beloved attractions are close to our cruise ports, said Donovan White, Jamaica’s Director of Tourism. “Combine this with our world class hospitality, it is our hope that this taste of what Jamaica can offer will ensure their return for a longer visit.”
Options abound for memorable experiences on the island, it's helpful to plan ahead and find activities best suited for everyone. Here are some recommended itinerary suggestions to ensure cruisegoers' time on island is well spent:
Thrill Seekers
Rumble in the jungle with Paintball Jamaica. Nestled in the heart of nature in the lush woodlands of Falmouth, an adrenaline rush will be had while playing games such as capture the flag, last man standing or last team standing. (1.5 hrs.)
Worked up an appetite for a hearty meal? Head to Pepper’s Jerk Center in Falmouth for a taste of savory jerked chicken, jerked pork, curried shrimp, curried chicken, escoveitched fish, barbecued chicken and more. (1.5 hrs.)
For a soothing beach experience, head to Montego Bay’s Cornwall Beach. Great for families, groups or couples, its soothing vibe will bring you down from your adventure high just in time to return to the ship. (3.5 hrs.)
Doing it for the 'Gram
Seeking wow moments? Every vantage point at Rick’s Café in Negril is the ideal Instagram shot and it will be hard to choose just one photo to share. Daredevils will want to bring a GoPro to capture the ultimate shot plunging off a cliff into the clear Caribbean waters for a once in life time memory. (3 hrs.)
Take a ride powered by gravity on the Rainforest Bobsled at Mystic Mountain in Ocho Rios.Modeled after the famous Jamaican bobsled team, adrenaline junkies will want to mount a GoPro on the front car so their friends can experience this fast and furious ride. (2 hrs.)
For a fun foodie experience, the patty challenge is a must. Head to Juici then to Tastee in Montego Bay for a taste of this authentic Jamaican favorite. (1.5 hrs.)
Fun with the Family
For an enriching experience try the Reading Road Trip in Montego Bay, which will take the family back to school for a unique opportunity to engage with children and create lifelong memories. (2 hrs.)
If action is what the family seeks, Chukka’s Good Hope Estate Pass & Waterfalls in Falmouth will satisfy their appetite. Families can compete in the park’s challenge course, slide down its 300-foot waterslide and tire the kids out at the children’s playground. While there, enjoy a Walkerswood Jamaica Jerk Chicken lunch and grab some treats to take home from the Jablum Coffee Shop. (4 hrs.)
Romantics
A private scenic horseback ride through the beautiful, lush countryside of Trelawny is just the ticket for those seeking romance in Jamaica. Continue along the shore to a breathtaking, white-sand beach where you can ride bareback into the sea for a memorable experience. (2 hrs.)
Savor a relaxing ride along Falmouth’s Martha Brae River on a 30-foot bamboo raft as the captain shares the history of its magical setting. The river’s lush greenery and the soothing breeze will set the mood for this romantic activity. (1.5 hrs.)
Take a leisurely stroll through the Gallery of West Indian Art in Montego Bay, which has a diverse collection from artists across the Caribbean. From there, head to Pier 1, located on a picturesque peninsula overlooking the harbor and the city of Montego Bay for an intimate lunch, dining on the freshest seafood. (3.5 hrs.)
Please note activity time does not include travel time as that would depend on the port of call. For more information about Jamaica and a guide to planning your next vacation, visit www.visitjamaica.com.