royal caribbean day excursions

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The Perfect Day Royal Caribbean Top 10 Cococay Excursions

Are you headed to Royal Caribbean's Perfect Day at Cococay?  Want to pick a Cococay excursion while you visit?  Awesome!  I'm excited to break down all your options.

I will list the top 10 Cococay Bahama excursions you can choose from. Perfect Day is so fun!

In this guide, we will be focusing on all the Cococay Bahama excursions and activities at Cococay that are not included in the price of your cruise. 

If you want to know more about what is included my complete Perfect Day at Cococay Guide (linked below) will help you navigate the rest of the island. 

Let's explore the best Cococay excursions on Royal Caribbean's private island Perfect Day at Cococay! 

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This post may contain affiliate links (Including Amazon) that will give me a commission at no additional charge to you. 

Where is Cococay?

Cococay is located in the Bahamas.  It is a private island owned by Royal Caribbean.  Only Royal Caribbean ships can port at Cococay. Even big ships like Oasis of the Seas , Allure of the Seas , and Icon of the Seas can dock. 

Cococay Complete Guide

It is about 140 miles from Miami! 

What are the Best Cococay Excursions?

Even though Perfect Day at Cococay is owned by Royal Caribbean, there are still excursions offered at Cococay. 

However, you will have to book directly with Royal Caribbean.  You can do this by logging into your Royal Caribbean account or booking these Coco Cay shore excursions through the app. 

Cococay Excursions

This image above is what is offered for Coco cay shore excursions when you actually arrive at Perfect Day at Coco Cay.  There are not as many options compared to what you will find online. 

If you know you want to experience Perfect Day at Coco Cay,  make sure to book a cruise itinerary that includes this stop! 

Let's get started with the best Cococay Excursions. 

1. Thrill Water Park

Thrill Water Park is one of the best Caribbean water parks! It has the tallest slide tower in North America and the largest wave pool in the Caribbean.

There are 13 slides and two main pools: Adventure Pool and the Wave Pool.  

Admission Cost

The cost of a Thrill Water Park full-day pass depends on what time of year you are going and what ship you are on.  It can range from $55 to over $100.  We went during Spring Break and it was around $100 per person.

Coco Cay Water Park

Thrill water park is designed for older kids and teens.  If your kids are under 40 inches this Coco Cay shore excursion is not for you.  There are other areas on Coco Cay that are free and more fun for little ones.

All of the rides on Devils Tower require you to be 48″.  There are some family rides on the Splash Summit Tower with a height minimum requirement of 40″ if they wear a lifejacket.  

Great For Older Kids and Teens

We took a 9, 13, and 15 year old and it was perfect. They loved this Cococay excursion! We played at Thrill Water Park most of the day and then checked out the other free options on the island. 

2. Zip Line at Coco Cay

Perfect Day at Cococay has a 1600 ft zipline that soars above the island.  If you like a thrill zip-lining is the perfect Cococay excursion to try out.  

We loved watching the participants soar over the Thrill Water Park.  It was really cool! 

Admission:  $79 – $139 

Prices will be higher during peak season.  You can also buy a combo ticket that includes the zip line and Thrill Water Park.  This ticket is $99 -$179.

Height Requirement : 48 inches

Minimum/Maximum weight: 75lbs to 275lbs

Duration: 45 minutes

3. Swim with Pigs

Have you ever wanted to swim with pigs? It's a thing in the Bahamas! Swimming with pigs is a Cococay excursion that you can book ahead of time.  There is also a booth located on Cococay where you can check to see if they have any open spots for the tour.  

Duration: 1.5 hours

Treasure Island

If you decide to do this Cococay excursion you will take a speedboat to Treasure Island.  The island hosts the swimming pigs.  One important thing to know is that the pigs do most of the swimming (not you).  You will enter the water no more than waist deep and feed the pigs. 

Prices vary depending on the time of year. This is one of the top Cococay Bahamas excursions.

4. Jet Ski Cococay Royal Caribbean Excursion

A jet ski excursion is a fun Cococay excursion! Prices vary depending on the time of year however one thing that holds true is that the driver pays a higher price and the passenger pays a much lower price.  

Bahamas Jet Ski 

The jet ski adventure is a tour.  There will be about 10 jet skis following a leader.  The water is so wonderful and calm around the island on most days.  

5. Up Up and Away Helium Balloon

The helium balloon is an awesome Cococay excursion to consider.  The balloon actually goes 450 ft in the air.  This is the highest vantage point in all of the Bahamas.  

Duration: 20 minutes

Admission : $39-$99 depending on the season

Unfortunately, when we went it was too windy.  The balloon was not operating! Weather conditions determine if this option will be available. 

6. Kayak Adventure

A Cococay excursion to consider is a Kayak Adventure.  This is a guided tour.  The guide will teach you how to paddle and will show you sea life as you explore around the island.  

Duration : 1.5 Hours

Admission : $43 

You can also combine a Kayak Adventure with Snorkel Gear Package for $72.

7. Glass Bottom Boat Tour

The Glass Bottom Boat Tour is a great Cococay excursion.  It is perfect for those of you who do not want to swim in the ocean but still want to see all the coral reefs and tropical fish.  

Duration : 1.5 hours

Admission: Starting at $42 

8. Scuba Dive with or without Equipment

Scuba Diving is an option for a Cococay Excursion.  This is a one-tank dive in shallow water around the island.  The maximum depth is 40ft.  There are a lot of coral reefs and tropical fish.  There are no shipwrecks or swim-throughs.  It is a pretty basic dive.

To do this excursion you will need to be certified and have completed at least one open dive within the past year.   

9. Parasail

When we went to Cococay, parasailing was not an option.  You will have to check and see if this is offered during your stop at Perfect Day.  

Duration : 1 Hour Total with 5-6 minutes in the air 

10. Sting Ray City

Sting Ray City is probably one of the best Bahamas excursions.  It is amazing to be so close to the sting rays.  You will get to spend 45 full minutes swimming with the sting rays.  The water can be a little chilly in the winter months. 

This Cococay excursion is not always available.  You will have to look on your app when you book your cruise to see.

Are you Ready to Book a Coco Cay Excursion?

Hopefully, this helps you create a cruise plan for what Coco Cay excursion you want to do.  There are so many fun options. 

 If this is your first time cruising picking excursions can be overwhelming. Knowing your options helps narrow down what you are most interested in. Hopefully, you find a Coco Cay activity that you will love!

Most of the Coco Cay excursions have to be booked through the official Royal Caribbean website or App.

Have so much fun!

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12 Comments

Oh Wow! This looks like so much fun. I’m already booking.

We want to book another one too!

I had no idea they owned an island! It looks like a really fun place to go for the day though.

It is such a cool place!

This looks exciting! Haven’t been to the Caribbean or on a cruise yes. And I had no idea they owned the island. From those I would bee keen to try Zip line, but only after my sting ray and pig swim 🙂 After I would also fo for kayaking. Such a cool place to spend your day.

It is a really cool place to spend the day!

I knew about Castaway Cay – Disney’s private island – but I had no idea Royal Caribbean had one too! Wouldn’t mind trying some of those activities, especially swimming with pigs, the water park, and scuba diving.

We did the water park and it was really fun!

Wow!! This looks like so much fun! I would definitely love to swim with the pigs and the stingrays. But also the diving experience looks amazing! Thanks for sharing!

Perfect Day is such a fun place!

How do you book the Stingray tour – it isn’t an option on the Royal Caribbean website?

There is a booth on Perfect Day, where you can book any excursion they have available. Sting Ray City may only be available from the other Bahamas stop.

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Everything You Should Know About Royal Caribbean's Private Island, Perfect Day at CocoCay

Here’s what you need to know about Perfect Day at CocoCay before your next Royal Caribbean voyage.

Getting There

Things to do on perfect day at cococay, dining on perfect day at cococay, family-friendly activities, adults-only activities, tips for visiting.

Courtesy of Royal Caribbean

Private islands aren't only for billionaires — they're for cruise lines, too. Many Royal Caribbean cruises include a stop at Perfect Day at CocoCay, the cruise line's private island in the Bahamas. Spanning 125 acres, Perfect Day at CocoCay has a little bit of everything for everyone, whether you're seeking some laid-back beach time, family fun at a water park, or a Vegas-style pool party. 

The island underwent a $250 million overhaul in 2019, and its list of attractions includes the tallest waterslide in North America (one of 13 waterslides in total), overwater cabanas, a 1,600-foot zip line, and an adults-only zone. The renovation also added a two-ship-capacity pier to the island, so guests can simply walk off their ship and onto the island rather than take a tender. 

If you want to book excursions or private cabanas for Perfect Day at CocoCay, do so as early as possible. Excursions are bookable online before your cruise's departure — although Royal Caribbean tends to periodically unlock excursions rather than open all bookings at once. Check around six months prior to departure to see what's available. Anything that's left at the time of departure can be booked onboard.

Ready to plan your adventure at Perfect Day at CocoCay? I recently visited during a sailing on the new Icon of the Seas , so here's everything you need to know about Royal Caribbean's private island in the Bahamas.

Royal Caribbean's fleet is enormous, with a whopping 26 ships — and counting. Many of them spend the entire year in the Caribbean, and that means you can visit Perfect Day at CocoCay any month of the year. Of course, not every single sailing calls at this port, so be sure to check the itinerary before booking.

Once your ship pulls alongside the pier at Perfect Day at CocoCay, you'll have anywhere from eight to 10 hours to explore the island. Depending on the day, your ship might be the only one at the pier, or you might be sharing it with another Royal vessel. In the latter case, there might be more than 10,000 guests on the island at once.

After you make your way down the pier, you're greeted by island staff, who can guide you to the attractions. At this point, you can hop on a free tram to bring you to some of the more distant areas, like the adults-only Hideaway Beach or the family-friendly Breezy Bay at Chill Island. But the whole island is also walkable, and it takes about 15 minutes to get from one end to the other. Beach-access wheelchairs are available on a first-come, first-served basis, too — ask a crew member to point you in the right direction.

The only things you need to bring onto Perfect Day at CocoCay are your SeaPass Card and a towel — towels are handed out onboard before heading to the island unless you've booked a cabana, where towels are provided. There are a few towel-swapping stations on the island if you need a fresh one.

While general admission to Perfect Day at CocoCay is free, certain zones and attractions do require a fee. As such, I'll be sharing things to do on the island in two sections: complimentary activities and ones that come at an extra cost.

Free Things to Do 

For zero charge, guests have access to Splashaway Bay and Captain Jill's Galleon (two splash pads for kids); Oasis Lagoon (the Caribbean's largest freshwater pool, spanning three-quarters of an acre); and the beaches Breezy Bay at Chill Island and South Beach (loungers are free, but daybeds and cabanas must be rented for a fee).

Options Available for a Fee 

For an extra charge, the fun really kicks in. Thrill Waterpark, with 13 slides and a wave pool; the 1,600-foot zip line; and Up, Up, and Away (a helium balloon ride) all cost extra. You must also pay to enter the exclusive Coco Beach Club and Hideaway Beach zones — the former is where you'll find the overwater cabanas, while the latter is the adults-only beach club. Other extra activities include snorkel and kayak rentals, as well as formal excursions, such as jet skiing and scuba diving.

Dining is included at Skipper's Grill, Chill Grill, and Snack Shacks on Perfect Day at CocoCay; here, you can find burgers, tacos, sandwiches, salads, and even soft-serve ice cream. Then there's the restaurant Captain Jack’s, which is known for its chicken wings, where you have to pay per dish. If you pay to enter Coco Beach Club, your admission includes dining at a Mediterranean restaurant. Similarly, Hideaway Beach admission covers food at its Snack Shack and Slice of Paradise pizza bar. 

The food at Hideaway Beach was a highlight of my afternoon ashore. At the Snack Shack, the ceviche was a stunner, with a touch of spiciness that was perfect with a sweet piña colada. And the mozzarella sticks hit the spot, too. At Slice of Paradise, I was impressed that the menu included Bahamian seafood escabeche pizza, a nod to a favorite local dish.

Royal Caribbean is a family-friendly cruise line , and pretty much all of Perfect Day at CocoCay is family-friendly — except for Hideaway Beach, which is a designated adults-only zone.

If your kids are looking for some action, there's plenty to keep them entertained. Toddlers might enjoy the splash pads at Captain Jill's Galleon or Splashaway Bay, while older kids might want to head straight for Thrill Waterpark with towering waterslides and a wave pool. Then there are the "dry" activities like the 1,600-foot zip line and the helium-filled balloon ride. 

For a more relaxing island day, consider visiting one of the three family-friendly beaches, where you'll find free loungers and free beach strollers on a first-come, first-served basis. If you'd prefer a pool, Oasis Lagoon has a zero-entry cove. And if you'd like to maximize privacy, consider booking a cabana for the whole family. The Coco Beach overwater cabanas are the star of the show, each with a two-person overwater hammock, a slide into the sea, a private shower, and concierge service.

Interestingly, there's no dedicated daycare or kids club on the island, so sorry parents — you'll have to bring your kids with you. That said, Adventure Ocean will remain open onboard your ship, so you can drop off the kids if you want to slip out to Hideaway Beach for a few hours.

As I visited Perfect Day at CocoCay without kids, I made a beeline for Hideaway Beach, the adults-only area of the island. Admission comes at a cost — anywhere from $39 to $89, depending on the day. But if you're looking for a Vegas-style pool party — with club music blasting throughout the majority of the horseshoe-shaped cove — this is where you'll find it. There's a DJ in the middle of the lagoon-style pool, where you'll find a swim-up bar, too. (That's just one of four bars here, mind you.) Island staff were even walking around with Champagne water guns, shooting right into the mouths of thirsty guests. Find a little more peace over on the far side of the beach, where the cabanas with semi-private pools are located. The music drifts over here, but no speakers are pumping it in. I spent the majority of my afternoon in a hammock on this calmer side of the beach.

• Use the app to book activities and excursions, like a ride down the zip line and entrance to the beach clubs and water park.
• Speaking of the zip line, closed-toe shoes are a requirement, so bring a pair ashore if you plan on riding it.
• The crowds are usually largest in the morning, as many guests head back to the ship in the afternoon. Consider heading ashore later in the day for less congestion. 
• If you've paid for Wi-Fi on the ship, you'll also have access to Wi-Fi on the island. Similarly, drink packages extend to all the bars on Perfect Day at CocoCay.
• Don't forget to bring your towel back onboard. If you don't return your towel, you'll be charged $25.
• The slides do have height requirements and weight limits. Minimum height requirements are usually 42 or 48 inches tall, while maximum weight limits top out at 300 pounds per person.
• If you plan on shopping at the straw market, bring some cash — vendors can't charge purchases to your SeaPass.
• Lockers and showers are available on the island, though you can return to the ship and come back ashore as many times as you want.

Best Caribbean shore excursions

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 sun, sand and sea. History, culture and food also top the lists of excursions available in the region.

You may 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 areas, from caves to volcanoes.

In our quest for the best Caribbean shore excursions, our goal was not to find the most popular tours, but to find 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 may vary among third-party sellers, and from cruise line to cruise line. To account for that, we are using the following price key to help you get an idea of the costs to expect for each tour.

• $ = $0-$50.
• $$ = $51-$99.
• $$$ = $100-$199.
• $$$$ = $200-$499.
• $$$$$ = $500 and up.

Best Eastern Caribbean shore excursions

Virgin gorda and the baths, tortola.

You'll have the opportunity to 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. It's 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. You'll get brief kayaking instructions, life vests and lights before setting 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.

Even with availability limited to cruises that stay in port overnight in San Juan or pre- or post-cruise stays, this excursion made our list because it is simply not something you can do in very 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, 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 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 is the spot for some of the best snorkeling in the Caribbean because the park encompasses over 18,000 acres of submerged land that include 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

Monserrat 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, as well as experience the beauty of the islands from a unique perspective. There's also the possibility of seeing sea life like whales, dolphins and turtles from the air 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 the more daring can jump from heights into the pool below. Konoko Falls is located 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 best-known dishes of the Caribbean. 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?

Xocolatl — The Chocolate Experience, Roatan

You may 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. Cave tubing is famous in Belize, 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 without taking hours of classes or investing loads of money. If you are going to try it, you might as well try it in one of the best diving locations on the planet. Plus, 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.)

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 do 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 give a helping hand to 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 looking for hatchlings that can either be helped into the ocean or retrieved and raised in a sanctuary until they are strong enough to be released. 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. Come see them on a guide boat 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, there aren't any guarantees, but this tour 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.

Climbing into the caves is the hardest part. Some involve ladders; others are more challenging, requiring 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 may 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, but the geography of St. Lucia gives it the unique ability to offer a true treetop zip line experience among the island's mountain peaks. Start by taking 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, $$$.

Pilot Your Own Boat and Snorkeling Tour, Grenada

Totally different from a personal watercraft, these little two-person inflatable motorboats (picture miniature Zodiacs) are crazy fun to drive. The snorkeling part of the excursion lets you explore one of the world's best underwater sculpture parks. The excursion is fun and lets you get wet, while leaving you plenty of time to shop or explore the port.

Half-Day Land Rover Safari, Aruba

Some of Aruba's best sites require a 4x4 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.

4x4 Adventure and Harrison's Cave Exploration, Barbados

If you want to get out of the city and see Barbados in its rawest form, this 4x4 adventure is a superb option. You'll enjoy a forest drive, featuring scenic overlooks and a view of the pounding Atlantic Ocean (and the rock formations it creates) where it meets the Caribbean on the eastern side of Barbados before enjoying a motorized tram ride through Harrison's Cave. The active cave (meaning it has water flowing through it) has 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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Cruise Maven

Cruising the World One Port at a Time

Best Cruise Excursions in Tortola on a Day in Port

By: Sherry Laskin · Updated On: January 22, 2024

Included on many eastern Caribbean cruises, Tortola offers plenty of cruise port excursions to choose. From beautiful beaches and mountain drives to shopping or sipping rum, there’s something for everyone. 

Here are our recommendations for cruise excursions on your day in Tortola in the British Virgin Islands.

Take a Shore Excursion to Tortola Beaches

In This Post...

If you’re looking for the perfect tropical beach, many cruise ship excursions head to the north side of Tortola for some of the most beautiful beaches in the Caribbean. Laid-back and picturesque, these soft sand beaches offer swimming, snorkeling and in winter, surfing.

Apple Bay is located on the north-western end of Tortola. It’s a great beach for surfing or boogie boarding especially in the winter months. 

Cane Garden Bay isn’t a secluded hideaway but it’s not to be missed, either. Nestled against a lush green hillside, the sand is like sugar and the water, calm. It’s also close to the port so you could find other cruise passengers enjoying the beach and the few restaurants and bars.

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Brewers Bay beckons you to its hidden shores on the north side of the island. Accessible by taxi or car, it’s a haven for locals and those looking for something off the beaten path. Not filled with tourist-y restaurants, you may want to bring water and a snack.

Taste the Local Food in Tortola

Cultures come together in the BVI to create a flavorful mélange of Caribbean cuisine . Tortola food tours are fun shore excursions. Locals love their roti, a flatbread stuffed with barbecued meat and folded like a burrito.

Fragrant spices include curry, allspice and hot peppers and they are used in abundance. Feel daring? Try curried goat meat soup (tastes like chicken of course).

Fresh seafood and just-caught fish plus colorful tropical fruits round out the culinary experience. Close to the port, the main thoroughfare in Road Town, Main Street, is dotted with lively restaurants, cafés and open-air bars.

Stop in for lunch and try a fresh fruit rum punch, one of the most popular (and potent!) drinks on the island.

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Go Shopping in Tortola

St. Thomas this isn’t. And for sure not St. John’s, USVI . And you’re in the British Virgin Islands not the US Virgin Islands. Prices will be a bit higher here. 

Tortola is smaller and less touristy but there’s wonderful shopping that’s walking distance to the port. You’ll find most of the shops along and just off of Main Street, which parallels the waterfront. Wander the little side streets and you’ll find art galleries, spice stores and of course tropical clothing boutiques.

If you like to cook, be sure to take home some local spices and a Caribbean cookbook. Several stores sell only spices, hot pepper sauces and condiments. Where are these shops? Your nose will lead you there, once you’re in the vicinity. (Hint: Sunny Caribee is one of the popular spice stores.)

Wickhams Cay: Near to the marina and not far from where the tender will dock, this new waterfront development has yet more stores to burn up your cash or credit card.

Crafts Alive Village: This “village” recently opened at the lower end of Road Town to replace the tent vendors. Rows of brightly-colored tiny “houses” with gingerbread trim (sort of like enclosed kiosks), comprise this new shopping area. Here you’ll find unique and beautiful arts and crafts, handmade in the British Virgin Islands.

Chances are your ship will offer shore tours for those who just want to shop for souvenirs, too. 

RELATED:  16 Best Things to Do in St. Thomas

Historic Sights in Tortola

Sage Mountain National Park: This first National Park in the British Virgin Islands was established in 1964 to preserve and regrow what was lost through decades of deforestation. Sage Mountain, at a stunning 1,716 feet, is the highest point in all of the Virgin Islands.

On a clear day, there’s a breathtaking view of neighboring islands including St. Croix. A dozen trails begin at the parking lot for the hike to the summit and through the park. The easiest way for this excursion is to hire a taxi from Road Town or rent a car to reach the park, located in the center of the island.

Old Government House Museum: Located in Road Town, this historic building is just a short walk from where your ship’s tender will dock. Originally the Governor’s residence from1880 until 1996, you’ll find an interesting display of British memorabilia, maritime antiques and original furniture. A nice detour when strolling along Waterfront Drive.

Virgin Islands Folk Museum: From the dock, head towards downtown Road Town along Main Street. Moved to its historic second location in 1993, the museum is located in the Penn House built in 1911. The West Indies-style house is a showcase for artifacts dating from over two thousand years ago, belonging to the Amerindians, the first known inhabitants. Old photographs, pottery and carvings highlight life on this island and surrounding area.

More Cruise Excursions in Tortola on Your Own

On an eastern Caribbean cruise, there’s always a nearby island to visit. From Tortola, take a ferry boat across the bay to Virgin Gorda, also in the British Virgin Islands.

Visit the mysterious Baths formed by giant boulders that seem to have dropped from the sky. Explore winding caves, snake your way through narrow passageways and take a dip in one of the hidden, crystal-clear pools.

After wandering through the caves, head up the stone stairs to the souvenir store before returning to your ship. Available by cruise excursion or on your own.

If you’ve always wanted to play with Flipper, Tortola has a cruise excursion over to Dolphin Discovery and just jump into the water. Watch as the trainer and dolphin go through their paces.

Then, you’ll get onto a platform in the water and have 30 minutes to interact, play and even get your photo taken while getting a kiss from a dolphin. Life aquatic isn’t cheap; tickets for adults and children are over $100 each. But it’s an amazing, once in a lifetime opportunity.

Tiptoe through the tulips at J.R. O’Neal Botanic Garden, just a short walk from the harbor, across Waterfront Drive. Just kidding about the tulips, this is the tropics, after all.

A walk through this 4-acre garden leads you through a wide range of indigenous vegetation, from cacti to herbs and orchids. Learn about the plants and trees native to this area or sit in the shade under a massive banyan tree.

Meander along the paths past fountains and exotics ferns and take a break from the blazing Caribbean sun. A small admission fee is charged.

Your day in Tortola will go by quicker than you’d like. Choose the best Tortola shore excursion for your time in port before you leave home so you don’t miss a thing. 

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November 19, 2022 at 1:42 pm

Hi Lindsay, Thank you for reading my Tortola article. You are right and thank you for bringing this to my attention. According to their website, Bomba’s is permanently closed and I have updated this article. Much appreciated!

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Bomba’s Surfside Shack seems to be closed after the hurricane in 2017

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Immerse Yourself in Cartagena's Rich Heritage and Spirit

Discover cartagena: captivating sightseeing excursions.

Unveil the hidden treasures of the Old Town's cobblestone streets and impressive fortresses and delve into the vibrant cultural scene through food tastings and exhilarating rides on the Chiva party bus. These sightseeing excursions promise a mesmerizing glimpse into the city's rich heritage and spirit, showcasing its colonial architecture, panoramic bay vistas and the captivating tales that have transformed Cartagena into a must-see destination on UNESCO's global stage.

Cartagena Attractions Sightseeing Pass

• Customized Sightseeing Excursion: Leverage the freedom to design your own sightseeing route with access to Cartagena's most iconic landmarks, ensuring a personalized exploration of the city's rich cultural tapestry.
• Diverse Attraction Access: From the immersive Hop-on Hop-Off Tour to specialized experiences like the Historical Museum Of Cartagena and the Rum Tasting Experience, this pass is your gateway to discovery.
• Explorative Cultural Journey: Delve deep into Cartagena's heart, experiencing its history, architecture and traditions through a curated selection of tours and experiences, each providing unique insights into the city's soul.

Cartagena City Hop On Hop Off Sightseeing Tour

• Flexible Sightseeing Excursion: Navigate Cartagena's enchanting streets at your own pace, with the freedom to hop off at any of the designated stops to explore landmarks, making each discovery an intimate sightseeing experience.
• Insightful Narrated Journey: Equipped with multi-language audio commentary, this tour not just traverses Cartagena's vibrant cityscapes but also enriches your understanding of its historical significance and cultural vibrancy.

Cartagena Sightseeing and Local Food Tasting

• Historic and Gastronomic Tour: Embark on a sightseeing excursion that not only showcases Cartagena's iconic landmarks but also tantalizes your taste buds with authentic local flavors, blending cultural exploration with culinary delights.
• Guided City Insights: With a local expert guiding the way, uncover the stories and secrets of Cartagena's most memorable spots, from historic fortresses to vibrant squares, enriching your sightseeing journey with fascinating anecdotes.
• Culinary Exploration: Dive into the heart of Cartagena's culinary scene, sampling traditional dishes that represent the city's rich cultural heritage, making every bite a discovery of flavors and every stop a sightseeing treasure.

Cartagena Sightseeing by Chiva Party Bus

• Festive Sightseeing Excursion: Board the vibrant Chiva Bus for a sightseeing tour unlike any other, where Cartagena's historic neighborhoods come alive with music, dance and the joyous spirit of the city, offering a dynamic backdrop to the city's scenic beauty.
• Iconic Neighborhoods Tour: Cruise through Cartagena's most iconic districts, absorbing the city's cultural essence and historical significance, with lively music and entertainment enhancing the sightseeing journey.
• Interactive Cultural Adventure: Engage in an unforgettable sightseeing excursion where the rhythm of local music and the beauty of Cartagena's streets blend seamlessly, offering not just a tour but a celebration of Colombian culture and heritage.

Cartagena Just for You

• Exclusive Cartagena Exploration: Immerse yourself in a personalized sightseeing tour that highlights the essence of Cartagena, from the serene Convento de la Popa to the formidable Castillo de San Felipe de Barajas, offering a unique perspective on the city's historical and cultural landmarks.
• Intimate Old City Tour: Discover the heart of Cartagena's Old City through an intimate journey that showcases its rich history, breathtaking colonial architecture and vibrant street life, ensuring a memorable sightseeing experience.

Experience Discover Cartagena: Captivating Sightseeing Excursions with these sailings

Complete your adventure with these shore excursions

• Royal Caribbean International

Excursion sale frequency?

By Honeyroastedmelnut , February 21, 2022 in Royal Caribbean International

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Honeyroastedmelnut

Does anyone know how often the official Royal Caribbean excursions go on sale? I know Black Friday (day after American Thanksgiving) is a great day for sales. My next cruise departs before that. My son is too young for a COVID vaccine so if we want to get off the boat we need to book an RC excursion. Right now they are 5% off which doesn’t seem like a sale to me. I was hoping someone might know when traditionally sales have occurred. I know I could book now and then cancel/rebook if the price goes down. But I’m not sure if I want to obsess that much over the price.

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1 hour ago, Honeyroastedmelnut said: I was hoping someone might know when traditionally sales have occurred.

Very rarely is any RCI “sale” fleet wide and for all items. With the intro of dynamic pricing about 7-+ years ago, you need to do some work (check fares and planner items on your own) to find any lower prices.  

My sept and dec were 30% off. First time I've ever seen this so I bought for sept. Almost nothing for sale to buy for dec. Now only 10% off.

Closer in none have gone on sale. I'd settle for your 5% off. 

"Sales" are every couple of weeks, and especially around the main US holidays, but you will also see prices fluctuating and occasionally at their cheapest in between sales.

Pay no attention to the "however-much% off". It's Royal-speak for "we're playing around with the prices again". Today's 5% off could get you a cheaper price than tomorrow's 30% off. Look ONLY at the bottom line.

I endorse @Biker19 's comment that you do need to do some work to snag the best prices.

At least the Cruise Planner now shows you already purchased excursions and the price you paid. Makes it much easier to cancel and rebook.

Even at very low capacity the first week of this month, Explorer prices trended higher than what I paid 2 or 3 months in advance. 

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The 16 Best Alaska Cruise Excursions for 2024

A cruise to Alaska is one of the best ways to visit many parts of the 49th state, including the Inside Passage and the southeastern port towns of Juneau, Ketchikan and Skagway. You can also see dozens of glaciers on a cruise, plus remote places reachable only by water, like Glacier National Park & Preserve. Traveling by ship allows you to get closer to one-of-a-kind experiences in Alaska's interior, especially if you extend your vacation with a cruisetour (a package that includes the cruise and a land portion either before or after your voyage).

When it comes to excursions, many cruise lines offer the same experiences ashore for larger ports of call, often with a slight variation in the itinerary. The most popular tours highlight the best activities and attractions, such as the Mendenhall Glacier Ice Adventure Tour in Juneau, the Misty Fjords National Monument in Ketchikan and the White Pass & Yukon Route Railway in Skagway. You'll also find entertaining offerings from cruise lines that call on smaller, less visited ports, like Icy Strait Point (Hoonah), Sitka, Seward and Haines.

While some tours cost less than $100, don't be surprised to find over-the-top experiences that run about $750 per person – such as heli-flightseeing tours, where you'll land on a glacier and go dog-sledding with a team of Alaskan huskies. If you're comfortable with going it on your own, you might find lower prices on some excursions by booking directly with tour operators. Alaskan outfitters are used to working around cruise ship arrival and departure times, so their tours tend to fit into those schedules.

U.S. News has compiled this list to help you find the best Alaska cruise excursions, from the most popular (and affordable) options to once-in-a-lifetime adventures.

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Even though it's surrounded by water and mountains – and there's no road into town – Juneau is one of the most visited ports in Alaska, welcoming hundreds of thousands of visitors each summer. You'll find plenty to do in Alaska's capital, including whale watching tours, salmon bakes and more.

Mendenhall Glacier

The Mendenhall Glacier is one of the top attractions in Juneau, so many tours include a visit to the Tongass National Forest to view the 12-mile-long sheet of blue ice. Some cruise lines, like Princess Cruises , offer self-guided trekking excursions that include a ride on the Juneau Goldbelt Tram, which affords views of the Chilkat Mountains and other panoramic scenery. You can also opt to see the glacier from the water by boat or kayak, or on a float trip.

However, if you're going to splurge on any one excursion, it's this one: Sign up for a helicopter landing on Mendenhall Glacier, followed by a dog-sledding adventure with a team of Alaskan huskies. During the approximately 30-minute helicopter ride, you'll fly over rainforests and spectacular summits, but the real fun is when you arrive at the camp to go zipping through the snow led by your team of dogs and a professional musher.

The Mendenhall Glacier helicopter excursion is offered on Holland America Line, Norwegian Cruise Line, Royal Caribbean International, Carnival Cruise Line, Viking Ocean Cruises, Seabourn Cruise Line and Silversea Cruises.

Whale Watching and Wildlife Quest

Whale watching is another top activity when visiting Juneau, and many cruise lines offer several options for tours. Holland America Line has a five-hour, small-group excursion for just 20 guests; you'll search for humpback whales on a safari vessel, then hike on Mendenhall Glacier where you can look for beavers, Arctic terns, porcupines and black bears. If you prefer an even smaller group, Princess Cruises offers a 3.5-hour private whale watching tour for six people. Possible sightings include humpback whales, orcas, sea lions, eagles, harbor seals, lighthouses, glaciers and maybe even a bear along the shoreline.

One of Viking Ocean Cruises ' excursions, the Best of Juneau, lasts more than six hours and takes guests on a naturalist-led whale watching cruise by catamaran. Before heading back to shore, you'll have a lunch of local wild-caught Alaska salmon on remote Colt Island, followed by a scenic drive to Mendenhall Glacier to end the day.

Alaska whale watching and wildlife excursions are offered on Holland America Line, Princess Cruises, Royal Caribbean International, Norwegian Cruise Line, Celebrity Cruises, Carnival Cruise Line, Viking Ocean Cruises, Silversea Cruises, Regent Seven Seas Cruises and Seabourn Cruise Line.

Taku Lodge Salmon Bake

Norwegian Cruise Line offers a 3.5-hour Taku Glacier Lodge Flight & Feast excursion that will tick several quintessential Alaska adventures off your bucket list. After flying over the Juneau Icefield (the fifth-largest ice field in North America) in a classic De Havilland seaplane, guests will land in the river at the historic Taku Glacier Lodge across from Juneau's largest glacier, the 5-mile-wide Taku Glacier.

A traditional Alaska salmon bake (with all the fixings) and drinks made with glacier ice are another highlight of the day. You might even see a black bear sniffing around for leftovers after your feast. Following lunch, take a walk in the lush Tongass National Forest before heading back from the wilderness.

Salmon bake excursions are offered on Norwegian Cruise Line, Princess Cruises, Holland America Line, Viking Ocean Cruises, Silversea Cruises, Regent Seven Seas Cruises and Seabourn Cruise Line.

Ketchikan sits at the southernmost entrance to Alaska's Inside Passage. It is one of the most visited ports in Alaska, according to the Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA). Visitors come to this part of the state for the beautiful scenery, Alaska Native culture and fresh seafood, including Alaska salmon and king crab. And they just might enjoy an entertaining lumberjack show or floatplane ride to kick off their day while in town.

The Great Alaskan Lumberjack Show

Watch Alaska's hearty lumberjacks battle British Columbia's tough woodsmen in a head-to-head competition to see who can win the title of "Bull of the Woods." The thrill-a-minute show – a guest favorite – features a 50-foot tree climb, ax throwing, log rolling, buck sawing and springboard chopping, along with plenty of lumberjack lore. Some lines, like Princess Cruises, offer just the show; it lasts a little over an hour, so there will be plenty of time for a self-guided tour of Ketchikan before heading back to the ship. You may also be able to book a combination tour that includes the show and an ax throwing lesson (plus a competition of your own), or a trip to Totem Bright State Park, where you'll learn about the significance of totem poles and the Native Tlingit and Haida cultures.

Holland America Line offers a tour with the lumberjack show and a feast of local Dungeness crabs. For another culinary option, check out the 3.5-hour excursion with Norwegian Cruise Line . It includes a visit to Saxman Native Village, where you'll sample smoked wild game meats, dine on chef-selected dishes prepared with regional ingredients, and taste local wines and beers.

Lumberjack shows are offered on Alaska voyages with Princess Cruises, Holland America Line, Norwegian Cruise Line, Celebrity Cruises , Royal Caribbean International, Carnival Cruise Line, Regent Seven Seas Cruises and Silversea Cruises.

Bering Sea Crab Fisherman's Tour

Embark on the Aleutian Ballard, the Bering Sea fishing boat made famous by the Discovery Channel's "Deadliest Catch" television series. The approximately three-hour excursion gives guests a firsthand experience of what it's like to sail on the vessel as a Bering Sea crab fisherman and catch massive king crabs, octopuses and other marine life with 700-pound crab pots. The boat may also stop at nearby Annette Island, where you'll have the chance to see whales, sea lions, seals and bald eagles soaring overhead (one may even try to snag your catch!). You may also get to watch local fishermen at work.

Some lines that offer the fisherman's tour include Princess Cruises, Holland America Line, Norwegian Cruise Line, Celebrity Cruises, Royal Caribbean International, Carnival Cruise Line, Viking Ocean Cruises, Seabourn Cruise Line, Regent Seven Seas Cruises and Silversea Cruises.

Misty Fjords by Floatplane or Cruise

The more than 2 million-acre Misty Fjords National Monument is one of the top attractions in Alaska . Described by naturalist and author John Muir as "the Yosemite of the North," the awe-inspiring destination is best viewed from above on a floatplane. From the sky, you'll see towering 1,000-foot waterfalls, the volcanic Revillagigedo Island, snowcapped peaks, verdant forests and 3,000-foot walls of granite descending into the fjords. On a floatplane tour, you'll also have the chance to land on the water and take in the spectacular scenery from another viewpoint.

If you're not a fan of small planes, some lines offer the option of taking a cruise from Ketchikan's harbor. You'll sail into Behm Canal surrounded by the scenery of Misty Fjords, and you may even see wildlife or bald eagle nests. You'll also cruise by Eddystone Rock, a massive volcanic spire emerging from the sea, as well as waterfalls and 3,000-foot cliffs sculpted by glaciers.

Cruise lines that offer floatplane or cruisetours of Misty Fjords include Holland America Line, Princess Cruises, Norwegian Cruise Line, Celebrity Cruises, Royal Caribbean International, Viking Ocean Cruises, Regent Seven Seas Cruises and Silversea Cruises.

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Skagway is another busy and popular cruise port in Alaska. It's one of the most popular towns on the Inside Passage itinerary; its fascinating Klondike Gold Rush history dates back to 1897. Take notice of the historic false-front shops reminiscent of the gold rush days as you explore. Many of these buildings are part of the Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park, and you may even see people strolling down the streets dressed in period costumes.

White Pass & Yukon Route

One of the top-rated attractions in Skagway is the White Pass Summit Scenic Railroad journey through Alaska's wilderness. The narrow-gauge railroad is an International Historic Civil Engineering Landmark – an honor shared by the Panama Canal, the Statue of Liberty and the Eiffel Tower. Dating back 125 years, the historic railway features vintage rail cars and climbs to a steep 2,865 feet at the summit over just 20.4 miles. Along the way to the summit – located at the official international border between the U.S. and Canada – you'll listen to the history of the Klondike Gold Rush while passing by Inspiration Point, Dead Horse Gulch and Bridal Veil Falls. After making a loop at the top, the train will head back down the mountain. You might even see snow on the ride if your cruise to Alaska is early in the season .

Excursions on some lines combine the rail journey with other activities, like biking on the Klondike Highway from the summit or visiting Liarsville, a gold rush trail camp. Others include a stop (and a cold beer) at the Skagway Brewing Company. In addition, some cruise providers offer the train ride in a luxury class rail car, which includes complimentary beverages, snacks and a private guide who will explain the history of the railroad as you watch the scenery pass by.

Norwegian Cruise Line's six-hour excursion features a ride on the White Pass & Yukon Route, a salmon bake at Liarsville and an adult beverage with one of the "madames" at the renowned Red Onion Saloon. Meanwhile, Silversea Cruises ' new 5.5-hour tour includes the train ride; a trip to the Yukon Suspension Bridge, which sits 65 feet above the white water rapids of the Tutshi River; and a hearty lunch of bison chili.

Cruise lines that offer the railroad (and combination) tours include Holland America Line, Princess Cruises, Norwegian Cruise Line, Royal Caribbean International, Celebrity Cruises, Carnival Cruise Line, Silversea Cruises, Viking Ocean Cruises and Regent Seven Seas Cruises.

Musher's Camp and Sled Dog Discovery

If you want to cuddle with Alaskan husky puppies, then this excursion is for you. Norwegian Cruise Line's approximately three-hour excursion takes guests to a professional musher's summer camp in Dyea Valley, where they train sled dogs for the Yukon Quest and Iditarod races. After a thrilling ride into the rainforest on a four-wheel-drive vehicle, you'll head out on a summertime dog sled with 16 Alaskan huskies at the helm. Before puppy play time, you'll learn how the mushers care for the dogs and prepare for the races. Depending on the cruise line, some tours may end with roasting s'mores by the fire.

Some lines that offer this excursion are Norwegian Cruise Line, Holland America Line, Princess Cruises, Celebrity Cruises, Royal Caribbean International, Carnival Cruise Line and Regent Seven Seas Cruises.

Chilkoot Trail Hike and Float Adventure

The historic Chilkoot Trail was the main route for those in search of untold riches during the famous gold rush years. Today, the trail, located in Gold Rush National Historical Park, is a rainforest full of birds and wildflowers. Excursions to the park include hikes with river floats on the Taiya River (there are no rapids) or bike tours of the trail. There are also wilderness kayaking outings to Chilkoot Lake, which is home to the five species of Pacific salmon, waterfowl, bald eagles and one of the largest brown bear populations in southeast Alaska.

Some cruise lines that offer these excursions include Norwegian Cruise Line, Princess Cruises, Holland America Line, Celebrity Cruises, Carnival Cruise Line, Silversea Cruises, Viking Ocean Cruises and Regent Seven Seas Cruises.

Sitka is the only community in the Inside Passage that sits on the Pacific Ocean. The small city – home to just 8,500 residents – was owned by Russia before the U.S. purchased the land in 1867. Today, you'll find remnants of this Russian heritage, like onion-shaped domes and Saint Michael's Russian Orthodox Cathedral. Sitka also has a strong Tlingit culture. In terms of shore excursions, you'll find plenty of opportunities for wildlife viewing surrounded by pristine landscapes.

Sea Otter and Wildlife Quest

Royal Caribbean International's three-hour jet boat cruise on Sitka Sound features panoramic scenery (including snow-capped peaks) and the chance to see abundant wildlife. During the tour, look for playful sea otters, whales and brown bears walking along the coast. The line also offers another tour – Sea Otters, Raptors and Bears Oh My – that features a naturalist-guided catamaran cruise followed by visits to the Alaskan Raptor Center (a rehabilitation center for birds of prey) and the Fortress of the Bear (a rescue operation for orphaned bears).

In comparison, Carnival Cruise Line 's VIP wildlife quest in search of whales, sea otters, coastal brown bears and more concludes with a feast of wild salmon cooked over a wood-fired grill, Alaska crab and prime rib at the Fin Island Lodge. Following a wildlife Zodiac cruise around the archipelago, Holland America Line's version of this excursion also visits the lodge for lunch in partnership with Food & Wine magazine.

You can find this excursion on Holland America Line, Princess Cruises, Norwegian Cruise Line, Carnival Cruise Line, Celebrity Cruises, Silversea Cruises, Regent Seven Seas Cruises, Viking Ocean Cruises and Seabourn Cruise Line.

The Best of Sitka

Several cruise lines offer a version of this tour, which features an exploration of the top attractions in Sitka. On this excursion, you'll visit the Fortress of the Bear in Tongass National Park to learn about the facility's work with orphaned bears. There's also a stop at Sitka National Historical Park, where the 1804 "Battle of Alaska" between the Russians and the Tlingits was fought. Here, you'll see handcarved totem poles created by skilled Tlingit artists and get to meet local Native artists to learn more. The excursion also includes a visit to the Alaska Raptor Center.

Lines that offer this excursion include Norwegian Cruise Line, Royal Caribbean International, Celebrity Cruises, Viking Ocean Cruises and Regent Seven Seas Cruises.

Icy Strait Point (Hoonah)

Icy Strait Point in Hoonah may be a much smaller port than others on this list, but it is a jumping-off point for endless outdoor explorations, including whale watching tours and searching for coastal brown bears. Icy Strait Point is Alaska Native-owned and -operated and is home to the largest Native Tlingit village in Alaska. While here, explore the wilderness areas of Chichagoff Islands, visit the 1912 cannery museum, and grab lunch with fresh Alaska king and Dungeness crabs before taking a ride on the world's largest ZipRider. (Or, play it safe and plan to take that ride down the mountain before lunch.)

Whale Watching & Bear Search

The waters surrounding Icy Strait Point host the largest summer population of humpback whales in the state, especially around the Point Adolphus area. If you purchase a tour directly with the Icy Strait Point website, they'll even guarantee you'll see whales – or they'll refund your money. During the tour, look for orcas, Steller sea lions, porpoises and seals. But be sure to also gaze overhead for bald eagles and search along the shore for bears; the Spasski River Valley in the remote wilderness of Chichagof Island has one of the highest densities of coastal brown bears in the world. Some cruise lines offer a variation of this excursion that includes a boiled seafood feast back on shore at Icy Strait Point.

You can find this excursion on voyages with Princess Cruises, Norwegian Cruise Line, Royal Caribbean International, Celebrity Cruises, Carnival Cruise Line, Viking Ocean Cruises, Silversea Cruises and Regent Seven Seas Cruises.

Scenic Mountain Ascent & World's Largest ZipRider

Thrill-seekers (who love heights) will jump at the chance to ride the world's largest and longest zip line, which sits more than 1,300 feet above sea level at the top of Icy Strait Point. The ride to the summit on the SkyGlider mountaintop gondola is also a rush, but the real excitement comes as you zoom down 5,330-foot zip lines with five other riders at 60 mph – with views of the forest below and Glacier Bay National Park in the distance. A break-activated landing on the beach brings riders safely back to the ground. The price also includes unlimited rides on the gondola.

Cruise lines that offer this excursion include Norwegian Cruise Line, Holland America Line, Princess Cruises, Celebrity Cruises, Carnival Cruise Line, Silversea Cruises, Regent Seven Seas Cruises , Viking Ocean Cruises and Seabourn Cruise Line.

A less visited port than some others on this list (according to CLIA), Seward is the ancestral home to the Alutiiq, or Sugpiaq, people. Its breathtaking natural beauty – with mountains on one side and Resurrection Bay on the other – has been shaped by glaciers over thousands of years. Top attractions in Seward include the Alaska SeaLife Center and a charming downtown area. It also offers access to Kenai Fjords National Park.

Kenai Fjords National Park Cruise

During your stop in Seward, take a full-day excursion to see the astounding beauty of Kenai Fjords National Park. The impressive fjords are surrounded by mountains standing more than 6,000 feet tall and an ecosystem rich in wildlife. While there, watch for a variety of whale species, sea otters, porpoises and sea lions, and onshore, you might see bears and mountain goats. There are also 191 documented species of birds in the park and many glaciers. As you get up close to Holgate Glacier, listen as chunks of blue ice calve into the water.

Some cruise lines, such as Viking Ocean Cruises and Regent Seven Seas Cruises, offer this as an individual tour, while others like Holland America Line include it as part of a cruisetour. You can also book the excursion directly with a local tour operator if you're embarking or disembarking in Seward.

Haines, a small port about 20 miles north of Skagway, is best known for its Alaska Chilkat Bald Eagle Preserve. The 49,000-acre preserve has the largest natural gathering of eagles during the late salmon runs and boasts pristine forests, marshlands and rivers brimming with wildlife.

Glacier Point Wilderness Safari

Norwegian Cruise Line's five-hour excursion takes guests on an adventure into the wilderness by boat while cruising North America's deepest and longest fjord, the upper Lynn Canal. You might even see breaching whales and playful sea lions en route to Glacier Point, where you'll disembark at the beach upon arrival. After a drive through the forest and a hike in the woods, you'll have unforgettable, up-close views of the Davidson Glacier by canoe.

Lines that offer this excursion include Norwegian Cruise Line, Princess Cruises, Carnival Cruise Line and Silversea Cruises. Holland America Line offers this excursion from Skagway.

Eagle Preserve Rafting Float Adventure

Look for bald eagles soaring overhead as you raft down the gentle Chilkat River through the Chilkat Bald Eagle Preserve. The waters are overflowing with salmon that come to spawn, serving as food for as many as 400 bald eagles living in the Chilkat Valley. Don't be surprised to see brown bears or 1,600-pound moose coming to feast along the riverbank during your rafting adventure.

Some lines that offer this excursion include Norwegian Cruise Line, Princess Cruises, Carnival Cruise Line, Silversea Cruises and Seabourn Cruise Lin e. Holland America Line, Regent Seven Seas Cruises and Viking Ocean Cruises host this excursion from Skagway.

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Gwen Pratesi is a U.S. News & World Report contributor and an avid travel adventurer who fell in love with Alaska on her first visit to the state many years ago. She's returned several times both by land and sea to view wildlife and chase the northern lights in one of the best places on the planet to view them. She's even considered moving to The Great Land as a full-time resident. Pratesi used her deep knowledge of Alaska and the cruise industry to write this article.

You might also be interested in:

• The Top Things to Do in Alaska
• The Top Alaska Cruise Lines
• Alaska Cruise Packing List
• The Best Alaska Cruises for Families
• The Best Cruise Insurance Plans

Copyright 2024 U.S. News & World Report

Royal Caribbean's family-friendly private island is about to get more crowded with Gen Xers

• Celebrity Cruises will sail to Royal Caribbean's Perfect Day at CocoCay for the first time.
• The cruise lines target different demographics, but the business case is solid.
• The private island is scheduled on 47 of Celebrity's itineraries this year.

Royal Caribbean's family-friendly private island is about to get a bit more crowded — with Gen Xers.

On April 21, Gen X-beloved Celebrity Cruises will voyage to Royal Caribbean International's Perfect Day at CocoCay for the first time, marking the start of a Celebrity-CocoCay bonanza: The premium cruise line plans to visit the family-friendly getaway 47 more times before the end of the year.

According to Celebrity, these itineraries will both double its year-round Caribbean offerings and launch its first weekend cruises . And travelers are hyped: A handful of these sailings are halfway or close to selling out.

Fares start at about $277 per person for a three-day roundtrip cruise from Fort Lauderdale, Florida, in which the Caribbean island is the only destination on the itinerary.

Travelers familiar with Celebrity and CocoCay might be scratching their heads

Royal Caribbean and Celebrity share the same parent company, Royal Caribbean Group .

For the most part, that's where their similarities end.

Royal Caribbean's private island is a tropical dream for cruising families dotted with sprawling beaches, clubs, a zipline, and a waterpark. The private destination is colorful, loud, kid-friendly, and generally the antithesis of what travelers might find on Celebrity's ships.

Celebrity's stylish vessels do offer children and teen programming. But if you want the exciting water slides, fun rides, and rock climbing walls of the popular mass-market ships, you're better off looking elsewhere.

Compared to Royal Caribbean's ships, Celebrity is best if you want to be on a premium, trendy, and more subdued cruise.

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If it's not obvious, the two brands are vying for different guests. Royal Caribbean goes after multi-generational families, while Celebrity's target demographic is Gen Xers, Lisa Lutoff-Perlo, the then-CEO of Celebrity Cruises, told Business Insider in 2021.

Celebrity sails to 300 ports on all seven continents — why this sudden push for the private Caribbean island?

In short, cruisers love Celebrity's upcoming Caribbean destination .

Last year, Michael Bayley, president and CEO of Royal Caribbean International, told analysts that CocoCay had seen robust demand, including from repeat travelers.

About two-thirds of Royal Caribbean's Caribbean-bound guests will stop at CocoCay this year. And most of them aren't complaining: "The vast majority of people love the islands," Patrick Scholes, a lodging and leisure research analyst at Truist Securities, told Business Insider in March.

But for the two brands' parent company, there are more benefits to private island cruising besides guest satisfaction.

CocoCay is one night's sailing from Florida's major cruise ports, reducing the visiting ships' fuel consumption and costs.

More importantly, these private destinations keep more profits in-house.

A day pass to CocoCay's waterpark can exceed $100 per person. Entry to the recently opened Hideaway Beach costs up to $89 per person. Nearby, an afternoon at the more luxurious Coco Beach Club could be shy of triple that cost.

Even the complimentary parts of the island have splurge-enticing amenities like rentable cabanas and snorkeling gear. And because there's no need to rely on other excursion operators, Celebrity's parent company gets to pocket more profits.

Most of Celebrity's 2024 cruises to CocoCay will be on two of its largest ships: the 3,849-guest Celebrity Beyond and 3,480-guest Celebrity Reflection. That's plenty of guests ready to spend big on the popular private island.

But that doesn't mean Celebrity cruisers will be fighting kids for beach chairs

It is possible to escape the hoards of families at Perfect Day at CocoCay. For example, the new Hideaway Beach is rowdy, boozy, and thankfully adult-only.

While not kid-free, on the other side of the island, the Oasis Lagoon pool has become the de facto hot spot for afternoon ragers "packed with intoxicated people having a really good time" on one end, and children on the other end, Bayley told reporters in late January.

If nothing else, at least there won't be any kids drinking at the island's more than 10 bars.

Watch: Inside the world's biggest cruise ship that just set sail

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