Although cruising is jam-packed with tons of on board activities, there are MANY different options on land, too. This is how it works - Some days are days in port, other days are days at sea. Days at sea are just what you'd think them to be - days where you're sailing all day and the boat doesn't ever dock in port. It's on these days that the Cruise Director plans for even more on board activities to keep guests entertained and excited about cruising.
Days in port are days in which the ship is docked and passengers are free to exit the ship and explore the surroundings. The ship usually docks early in the morning (between 7 and 9am) and leaves in the evening (usually between 6 and 8pm) and passengers are free to roam about in between. So what's there to do on land? You have several options:
1. Visit the Shore Excursion desk on board and sign up to go on one of the pre-approved trips organized by the cruise line. These trips are planned with reputable vendors and pose little risk to the passengers. The trips range from a day of sailing and snorkeling, to parasailing, helicopter rides, zip-line adventures, beach days, 4x4 off-roading in the dunes, swimming with the dolphins/rays trips...pretty much anything you'd want to do - there's someone doing it!
2. Rent a car. If you're familiar with the port of call and want to do your own thing, go right ahead! Most of the ports are near local airports which makes car rentals easy - there's often a free shuttle from the ship to rental office, too! Just make sure you get a map and a good watch - you don't want to get lost and miss the boat!
3. Find your own tour. Often local tour guides, who are not affiliated with the cruise lines, will ofter various trips in and around town - maybe a cab driver who offers a daily rate. While these trips are often available, be wary as there is no insurance associated with these trips - they have not been pre-screened/approved by the cruise line.
4. Walk around/rent a scooter or bike. Most of the ports are in or near (a very short cab ride) to the local town. Each town has its own culture and style and visiting the towns and seeing the sights is often very education (and economical) and breaks up the trip.
5. Go to the beach! This option applies most if you're visiting the Caribbean, Bahamas, and/or Hawaii, but I guess you could look for a beach in Alaska - tons of ocean-front property there!... most people go on vacation to relax, soak up the rays, and see something new. Sometimes a beach day is a perfect combination of all three! Ask at the reception desk on board for a local map and to help point out some hot beach spots!
If you're still not convinced there's plenty to do in port, give me a call and we can chat about it! I'd be happy to answer any questions you might have about cruising or shore excursions!
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