Royal Caribbean cruise - excursions with cruise line or independantly?

Question

Dtr and I are going on RC western caribbean cruise in early Feb. There are so many opinions about planning excursions thru the cruise line to ensure getting back to the boat on time and to ensure that we don't get taken advantage of, vs booking excursions independantly to save money and have a better variety of options. In my situation, mother and daughter only-hub is staying home-and we've never cruised or been to any of these places before, I'm leaning toward sticking with the cruise excursions but am curious about the independant option.

Opinions?

Answer 1

I think that the best and safest way to go on excursions is through the cruise line, they guarantee that you make it back to the ship on time, and if not the ship will wait for you.  Any independent tour companies can not make that promise.  

That being said, we have been on some great tours that we bartered for on the dock.  So use your best judgment and if you plan on using an independent tour, take you passport and at least one credit card with you.  That way if you do miss the boat, (which is rare) you have a way to catch up to the cruise.

Answer 2

Try www.shoretrips.com. I have worked with them and they are awesome. Also, have done the ships shore excursions and yes you can always save money by just walking OFF the ship and there will be PLENTY of people that want your business for ALL of the same shore excursions that you could have bought on the ship, but for a lot less $$$.

Answer 3

There is something good about booking in advance and knowing what you want to do verus arranging an excursion once you get to the island.

What islands will the ship be stopping at and how long will you be at that port.?

Check out this site for options and opinions.

http://www.cruisecritic.com

good luck)

Answer 4

We have only 6 cruises with RCCL, but with my experience I have seen people left behind and had the tender held for us once in the Caymans when our excursion boat broke down. We cruised in October O7 and seen people running up the dock and latter overheard one of them complaining that the excursion they booked privately took longer than promised and they missed the Island and shopping. I Talked to My Aunt this week she and her Grand kids went on the same ship 2nd week in Dec. 07 and because of a storm they missed two Islands (but still had a great time). So would they get money back if they booked excursion on their own? I say stick with RCCL backed Excursions to many things can go wrong and it would be a shame to ruin your Vacation trying to shave a few bucks.