Eastern Caribbean Excursions??

Question

any recomendations? i know there are tons through the cruise line (RCI freedom of the seas) but i know there are also different types of excursions people go on through private companies...any suggestions? which is better to do, through the cruise line or on your own?

Answer 1

It will almost always be cheaper to book excursions on your own.  However, if you are late getting back, the ship will not wait for you if you are "on your own".  Some excursions are available only through the ship [vendors will not allow you to book it privately, if so].  

There's a certain comfort level in using the ship's excursions.  If you want to go on your own, you have to do lots of research and allow yourself plenty of time.  Some islands are not suited to going on your own [e.g. Jamaica], while others are very easy and safe [e.g. Cozumel, Grand Cayman].

Go to CruiseCritic.com, click on "Boards", then "Ports of Call", then on your specific ports to see what experiences other travelers have had.  The info there is very reliable.

Answer 2

If it is an excursion that could be delayed and you could possibility not get back in time go with one sponsored by the line.  If you just want a ride some where and will get back in pleanty of time ,go on your own.

Answer 3

use the private companies at your own risk.  Chances are they are fine and are less expensive than the the cruise lines.

Even the cruise exursions are done by private companies, they are just carefully screened private companies.

Also, if your excursion runs late, the ship will wait for you.

Not so with a private one.

Answer 4

Depends on how much you want to pay and what you would like to do but I found this site to be helpful. I use this site for all my travel! You can see when is the best time to go, hotels,  and what to do and not do. I hope it helps.