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Is Shore Excursions Group Legit?

Last updated on September 17th, 2023 at 09:33 pm

When planning a cruise vacation, one of the key aspects to consider is how to make the most of your time at each port of call . Shore excursions provide an opportunity to explore the local culture, visit iconic landmarks, and create unforgettable memories.

However, choosing the right excursion provider is crucial to ensure a seamless experience. In this article, we delve into Shore Excursions Group (SEG), examining their legitimacy, their guarantee to get people back to the ship on time , and the potential savings that can be enjoyed by booking with them.

Table of Contents

  Is Shore Excursions Group Legit?

Without a doubt, Shore Excursions Group is a well-established and reputable company offering a wide range of shore excursions to cruise passengers. With years of experience in the industry, they have built a strong reputation for delivering high-quality tours and exceptional customer service.

Their commitment to customer satisfaction is evident in the positive reviews and testimonials from thousands of satisfied travelers who have chosen their services. They offer 24/7 support for travelers from any place in the world as part of their commitment to excellent service.

SEG offers a range of experiences for travelers, such as cultural, scenic, culinary, water/beach, and active shore excursions. SEG is the largest excursion company in the world, offering more than 3,000 excursions in over 300 ports worldwide.

Check our their FAQ page for more helpful info.

Check out Shore Excursions Group Reviews on Trust Pilot if you’re skeptical. 

Shore Excursion Group Uses Local Experts

Shore Excursions Group works in collaboration with local tour operators at each port of call . They have gotten to know and establish a relationship with the local experts that are on the ground in each of their excursion locations.

This relationship ensures that travelers receive authentic experiences and knowledgeable guides who possess in-depth knowledge of the destination. By partnering with trusted local experts, they offer a variety of carefully curated tours that cater to different interests and preferences.

Shore Excursions Group Offers More Personalized Service

The majority of other companies sell cruises and other forms of travel, so their energies are spread over numerous enterprises. SEG focuses exclusively on shore excursions. They are able to use the expertise they have acquired in this area to offer the highest quality shore excursions delivered by local experts in the most cost-effective way for their customers.

Since they are not a large cruise line that needs to cater to thousands of travelers each day, SEG is able to give you a more personalized experience. And, many of their excursions are not available from cruise lines.

Depending on your preferences, Shore Excursions Group offers tours for large groups of 20 – 50 people, which is similar in size to tours offered by cruise lines. They also offer small group excursions in groups of 2 to 20 people. These excursions offer a more personalized experience.

If you prefer to travel with just your party alone, and to possibly customize your shore tour, there are private tours that SEG can arrange for you too.

You Will Get Back to the Ship on Time, Every Time

One of the major concerns for cruise passengers when booking shore excursions is the fear of missing the ship’s departure. At times, it is the cruise lines themselves that perpetuate this unfounded fear. 

Shore Excursions Group understands the importance of punctuality. It is the backbone on which their business is founded.  SEG has implemented a robust system to ensure passengers return to the ship on time.

Their “On-Time Return Guarantee” also provides peace of mind to travelers. They carefully plan the duration of each tour to allow sufficient time for exploration while considering the ship’s departure schedule.

In the unlikely event that a tour runs late due to unforeseen circumstances, Shore Excursions Group takes full responsibility for arranging and covering the costs of getting passengers back to the ship at the next port of call.

This guarantee reflects their commitment to customer safety and satisfaction. By booking with Shore Excursions Group , travelers can enjoy their excursion worry-free, knowing that their timely return to the ship is a top priority.

To date, Shore Excursions Group has successfully facilitated over 3.8 million excursions worldwide. Specializing exclusively in excursions has enabled SEG to consistently deliver a quality experience to travelers and to keep travelers coming back.

Savings through Shore Excursions Group

In addition to their reliability, Shore Excursions Group offers significant cost savings compared to booking excursions through the cruise line. Cruise lines often charge premium prices for shore excursions, which can strain your budget. Shore Excursions Group, on the other hand, focuses on providing excellent value for money.

By working directly with local tour operators, Shore Excursions Group eliminates unnecessary intermediaries and passes the savings on to the customers. This allows travelers to access high-quality excursions at more affordable prices, without compromising on the experience.

On average, booking with Shore Excursions Group can save travelers up to 40% or more compared to cruise line prices, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious cruisers.

Refund Policy

If you miss a SEG excursion because your ship was late into port, or missed a port of call, you will receive a full refund. If weather or an equipment problem prevents a tour operator from delivering the tour, you will also receive a full refund.

Price Match Guarantee

Moreover, Shore Excursions Group offers a price match guarantee. If a customer finds the same tour offered by another company at a lower price, Shore Excursions Group will match that price and offer an additional discount. This commitment ensures that customers receive the best possible value for their money.

When To Book A Shore Excursion

Some excursions book up well in advance, so it is best to book as far in advance as it is possible. If you decide at a later time, or if you catch a last-minute cruise, three days in advance of your ship’s departure is the latest that you could book an excursion with SEG.. This ensures that SEG has the ability to make all of the necessary arrangements for you in place.

Final Thoughts on Shore Excursions Group

Since 2015, CruisePortAdvisor.com has partnered with Shore Excursions Group to offer shore excursions to our visitors. During that time, we have never had a single complaint about Shore Excursions Group sold through our website. 

Shore Excursions Group has established itself as a legitimate and reliable provider of shore excursions, offering exceptional experiences and outstanding customer service. Their guarantee to get people back to the ship on time reflects their commitment to customer safety and satisfaction.

Moreover, the potential savings of up to 40% or more compared to cruise line prices make Shore Excursions Group an attractive choice for those seeking value for money.

When planning your next cruise vacation, consider Shore Excursions Group as your trusted partner for memorable and affordable shore excursions.

This page contains affiliate links for which we may receive financial compensation when a purchase has been made through one of our affiliate partners.

About Jonathon Hyjek

Jonathon is the tech guy behind CruiseportAdvisor.com. When he's not stuck in front of his computer, Jonathon enjoys travel & cruising (even after being on a cruise ship that caught fire - a story for another day!)

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Request Jose Rosario for your driver

Our driver, Jose Rosario, made our day! He was the best tour guide. We had a wonderful experience at The Mexican Hot Springs. Hector and all the staff were very welcoming. We had the most delicious lunch of homemade guacamole, freshly made chips, and delicious queso. After our excursion, we wanted to go shopping before returning to the cruise ship. Rosario took us to the best downtown store, Michael Gallery for handcrafted art, jewelry and Mexican vanilla. We had a great day!

Date of experience : March 06, 2024

the website was easy to navigate

the website was easy to navigate. It would be great to have a better understanding on distances from the port to the actually excursion. The individual I spoke with on the phone was pretty decent.

Date of experience : April 15, 2024

Excellent small tour experience

Our tour guide gave us lots of interesting information and great recommendations for eating and shopping. Our driver was wonderful. Two dogs ran out in front of our van and he skillfully avoided hitting them.

Date of experience : March 20, 2024

Bait and switch

Bait and switch. We recently use SEG to book an island tour on Oahu during a Hawaii cruise. After meeting our guide and starting out for the day we realized that the tour we were on was not the one we’d signed up for. We were not the only ones. One of the other patrons who had booked through a different company said she had received an Email explaining that the original tour had been canceled and giving her the option be booked on the new tour or cancel. We did not receive an Email. The tour was similar, but two stops we were really looking forward to had been omitted.

Date of experience : March 25, 2024

A pleasure to work with

We did three excursions shore excursions. Everything was very easy to book. We were picked up promptly at our cruise port. The excursions were interesting and the guides were wonderful. I found the prices to be very reasonable for what was included.

Date of experience : March 19, 2024

Best Excursion for the Family

Best Excursion for the Family! Our family of 7 people ages range from 82 to 7 years old. Was fun for Grandma to go 100 feet under the sea and experience seeing the bottom of the ocean for her first time! All the kids enjoyed seeing the shipwreck and sea life. The captain made sure that both sides of the submarine were able to view everything. My husband and I both have gone scuba diving but this was a completely different experience! Highly recommend this!!

Date of experience : July 07, 2023

Highly Recommend

We've now used Shore Excursions Group for multiple excursions, and not only have they all been very good or excellent, but when we have had any issues, Shore Excursions has stepped up and assisted, or provided us a partial refund. Highly recommend!

Date of experience : March 14, 2024

Customer service is effective and professional.

We booked 2 Private Origins of Naples tours from SEG. Our tour guide Fabiana was waiting for us at the port entrance on time. She is care and professional. She combined our 2 groups to one because the other local guide didn't show up, but Fabiana didn't leave us, she tried to contact the local office for us and decided to take all of us as a shared group. Our 2 hours in Naples was relax and fun. Fabiana is knowledgeable for the city history, culture and food. The management team are professional and enthusiasm to solve the small problem for us. We're satisfied and confidence to use their service again in the future travel. We strongly recommend Shore Excursions Group.

Date of experience : March 18, 2024

They are a middleman that will waste your time and not get you anything.

They have an automated email that forces you to block out a planned excursion for 3 days and then email you on the last day to say that they couldn't get you anything. The only other option is to pay an additional fee that's about 30% of the full excursion to get an answer within 24 hours. They are a broker and they are unreliable. Just do your homework and you're better off without them.

Date of experience : April 06, 2024

Punta Arenas and Monevideo

I took two excursions with Shore Excursion Group in my South America cruise in March 2023 Punta Arenas: The local guide gave an overview of Punta Arenas. The highlight of the excursion was the visit to Museo Salesiano. Montevideo: The guide was excellent and told the history of the country and gave us a thorough tour of city. I am particularly thankful to my guide as he let me take a photo of Estadio Centanario where the inaugural FIFA World Cup was played in 1930.

Date of experience : March 29, 2023

Easy Web site to choose an on shore…

Easy Web site to choose an on shore excursion. Followed up with good communication after making a selection

Great full day in wellington

Guide meant me by the ship. I ended up with having a private tour with this wonderful gentleman. He took me to all the places and activities that had been outlined when booking this tour. We had a fabulous lunch at the fish cafe. I especially appreciated the beauty of the south shore. The tour was well paced and the guide gave me a wealth of information about the history of Wellington and its surroundings. He was such easy company and knew the area like the back of his hand. I totally enjoyed the entire experience and was back at the ship in ample time. Thank you and wishing you a quick recovery with your knee surgery.

The Costa Maya excursion was really…

The Costa Maya excursion was really gross. The place they took us to was a dirty beach with gross food. We were jammed in this little space like sardines on old beach chairs. Total waste of money and time and would never ever do it again.

Date of experience : April 16, 2024

We did several cruises each year

We did several cruises each year. We always buy our excursions with Shore excursions group, because the groups are often smaller and the prices are competitive. What's more, our experience with local tour operators is always pleasant and positive. They are reliable.

Great guided tours

Great guided tours. I have used shore excursions now twice for long cruises and different destinations and most of the tours have been amazing.

Date of experience : March 11, 2024

Shore excursions is a less expensive alternative to buying from the cruise lines. They are the same tours and are fun and safe. We really enjoyed our diving and the place was professional and caring.

We had a blast on this excursion

We had a blast on this excursion. We went with our 6 and 7 year old kids, who were a little scared at first. The staff let them hold on to a floating ring and calmed them down really quickly. By the time we got to the third area, my kids were out snorkeling by themselves. The next time we are down there, we will definitely be booking with them again

Date of experience : March 13, 2024

Wonderful experience with a great crew!

We had a tender relocation at the last minute and didn’t need to do anything. Everyone at the pier knew the name of the person we were meeting and directed us to where we needed to go. The drive was easy and uneventful. The place where we embarked on the boat was clean and the crew were especially helpful and friendly. All in all it was a beautiful day that went very smoothly!

Date of experience : February 22, 2024

Memorable excursion to Stingray city and elsewhere!

The guide made the entire trip enjoyable and interesting. He was happy to share interesting tips and suggestions for snorkeling, how to interact with a stingray that he held, and to hold starfish. I was surprised that even had a name for the stingray as he said a stingray will come back to the area to the same person and he could tell by the bumps on the spine on the back. The pilot did a great job of carefully maneuvering the boat around in close quarters with other boats and people. Great trip!

Date of experience : February 14, 2024

Jane's local food and history tour

Jane, our tour guide was very knowledgeable about local history and took us on a fantastic food tour, pointing out interesting architecture and giving insights into landmarks of local importance. She was delightful and a joy to spend time with.

Date of experience : March 12, 2024

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I tried Holland America's 'Have It All' package. For just $55 a day, my cruise felt way more luxurious.

• I tried Holland America Line 's Have It All package on a recent cruise to Alaska.
• For $55 per person per day, we got complimentary drinks, special meals, and other perks.
• The price was so worth it we already booked this package for future cruises. 

Cruise bookings are predicted to reach record levels this year, and travelers are especially interested in luxurious sailings.

But as many of us know, luxury doesn't always equate to value, even when it comes to upgrades and special packages.

So, on our recent cruise to Alaska, my husband and I put one of many cruise packages to the test: Holland America Line's "Have It All" package, which costs $55 per person per day.

It includes perks like a beverage package, ship credit for shore excursions, onboard WiFi, and dinner at specialty restaurants.

Here's why we found it to be such a great value we're going to add it to future cruises.

The beverage package was great, and it included special drinks without alcohol

The biggest perk of the "Have It All" package was the ability to order drinks without worrying about the bill at the end of the cruise.

Our previous cruises had us drinking only tap water, drip coffee, tea, and an occasional glass of wine with dinner to avoid any sticker shock at the end of the trip. We felt restricted in enjoying our vacation.

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But this time, we had the freedom to enjoy ourselves. The "Have It All" package we booked came with 15 drinks a day under $11. If you want a drink over $11, you only pay the difference.

The beverage package also covers non-alcoholic drinks. It was perfect for when we wanted espresso drinks for cold Alaska days or a bottle of water for a shore excursion.

The shore-excursion credit helped push us to have more fun

We knew we had to do a whale-watching excursion in Alaska, but didn't consider booking other excursions due to price. Many of the ones we were interested in cost over $100 per person.

But with the package, we each got credits to use toward shore excursions during our cruise. The value of the credit varies depending on the duration of your cruise — ours was less than 10 days, so we each got a $100 credit.

The $200 worth of credits made us feel more comfortable booking an incredible excursion to kayak the wild waters of Sitka.

We probably would've hesitated to book an excursion and missed an incredible experience if we hadn't felt compelled to use the credits in the package.

Specialty dining helped us celebrate our anniversary

Our "Have it All" packages each included at least one dinner at one of the ship's specialty restaurants. If you're on a longer cruise, this package would get you access to more dinners.

We used our credits to eat at the Pinnacle Grill, known for its premium steaks and intimate dining experience. Our anniversary dinner was extra special because of the access to premium dishes unavailable in the main dining room, five-star service, and a luxurious setting.

WiFi kept us connected

The package included WiFi, which really came in handy as we shared photos with friends and family throughout our trip.

We were able to use the internet to search for whatever we needed and research the highlights to visit at the next port of call.

We've already booked the package for future cruises

For less than what a few drinks cost per day, the package helped us relax, have fun, and enjoy each port of call with a shore excursion. Plus, we got to indulge in the ship's specialty restaurants.

We loved it so much we've already purchased this same package for three future cruises.

Watch: While Delta's business is 'extremely robust,' the airline's marketing chief stays focused on the data

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Kahului Shore Excursions & Kahului Excursions in Maui, Hawaii Aloha and welcome to your cruise ship port of Kahului on the island of Maui, the second largest Hawaiian island. Prepare yourself for breathtaking scenery that includes black sand beaches, waterfalls, and spectacular whale watching just among a few of the interesting attractions and Kahului Shore Excursions to see, check out our Kahului Best of Maui Excursion  which will show you the best of this port. The Hawaiian Islands are the 50th state in the US. The islands are actually made up of 137 islands including the 8 major ones, coral atolls, and underwater seamounts.

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• Jungle Waterfall ($310.99)
• Road to Hana ($209.99)

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• Bottled water and light snacks are included!
• English-speaking shore excursion guides!
• Escape the cruise ship shore excursion crowds!
• Enjoy the beautiful bamboo forest and waterfalls of Maui!
• GoPro photography!

• Air-conditioned and licensed round-trip transportation from near your Maui cruise pier!
• Friendly local and trained Maui shore excursion guides!
• Drive through the charming town of Hana!
• Orientation and free time in Hana!
• Complimentary Deli Lunch!
• Water and Soda Pop Provided!
• Photo stops along the coast!
• Swim at Puaakaa State Park and Black Sand Beach!

• English speaking, local and trained Maui shore excursion guides!
• Drive on the famous Hana Highway!
• Lite breakfast!
• Picnic lunch!
• Escape the cruise ship shore excursion crowds and enjoy unique sights of Maui and surrounding area!

• Complementary breakfast included!
• Complimentary Lunch!
• Visit Iao Valley, Lahaina Banyan Tree, Maui Aquarium, Sugar Museum, Hookipa State Park, and Maui Made Shop!

• Air conditioned and licensed round trip transportation from your Kahului Maui cruise pier!
• Visit Maui Tropical Plantation!
• Included tram ride of the plantation!
• Visit Iao Valley State Park and Iao Needle!
• Visit to Maui Ocean Center!

• Air-conditioned and licensed round trip transportation from your Kahului Maui cruise pier!
• All fees and taxes included!

• Air conditioned and licensed round trip transportation from your Kahului Maui cruise ship pier terminal!
• Visit to Haleakala National Park!
• View of the sunrise from the summit!
• A lite snack!
• Breakfast included after sunrise!

• Guided snorkeling at Molokini Crater and (weather permitting) Turtle Town!
• Snorkel set includes varied sized fins, sanitized snorkel, silicone mask, and vest!
• Continental breakfast!
• Deli lunch buffet!
• Open bar after last snorkel stop!

• Air conditioned and licensed round trip transportation from your Kahului Maui cruise pier area!
• English speaking, local and trained Kahului sightseeing shore excursion guides!
• Photo stop at Ho`okipa Beach and scenic drive through Paia Town!
• Historic drive through Pineapple Country!
• Visit to a lavender farm along with tea and scones!
• Visit to Ulupalakua Ranch and pineapple wine tasting!
• Photo stop at Kula Country Farms!
• Freshly prepared lunch!
• Escape the Kahului Maui cruise ship shore excursion crowds and enjoy unique sights of Kahului and the surrounding area!

Mistakes To Avoid When Booking Cruise Shore Excursions

T here are so many reasons why people love cruising. For starters, travelers are able to enjoy the sight of that soothing, restorative, wonder of nature known as water, whether that be open expanses of sea and ocean, or slim slashes of river that wind between cities. The joy of flitting from port to port without having to unpack and repack at each stop is also greatly appealing, especially to repeat cruisers that extol the convenience of this arrangement. Some vacationers like the experience of exploring the ship, from the open decks where they can take their morning walks, to the quiet corners where they can catch up on reading, or chat with a fellow passenger (the social aspect is a big draw). For others, it's the endless food and the entertainment, from the live shows on stage to the fun facilities on board (water slides, zip lines, roller coasters) and the informative lectures. 

Perhaps the greatest attraction is the chance to explore a new place each day to see and experience a change of scene from 24 hours earlier. Ships often sail overnight so that they dock in a different location in the morning, and these trips off the boat, known as shore excursions, represent the land segment of a cruise trip and are an integral part of the vacation. But taking a shore excursion isn't a simple endeavor, and choosing unwisely can turn it into a deflating experience. Here are some common pitfalls to consider when booking your next one.

Not Going On An Excursion

Cruises are big business, with 14 million Americans taking a vacation on a cruise ship in 2019. But the boat, which is in effect a traveler's home away from home on the water, is not the whole vacation. It also serves as a means to an end, a way to see places beyond the vessel, and travelers should definitely take time to explore the ports of call made by the ship. There are so many reasons why a passenger should take an excursion. For starters, simply because they offer a change of scene from the ship, and variety is, after all, the spice of life. 

Trips in ports let you get a glimpse of the culture, language, food, and customs of somewhere new every time you step onshore. By taking an organized trip, either through the cruise line or arranged independently, you will be led by a guide that speaks the same language as you, invaluable in places where the dialect differs from the one you are used to. Imagine a journey around some delectable food stores in Rome, or through Mayan ruins in Mexico.

Not Booking In Time

Here's an obvious statement that's worth reiterating — the most popular excursions are the ones that sell out the fastest, a classic example of Economics 101 where demand swarms over supply. Once you book your cruise, and you find a trip that you must go on (like whale-watching in Alaska), reserve space on it immediately online before those slots are gone. Some top sellers in the Caribbean, for instance, include snorkel tours in the Bahamas, an ATV tour to the more remote parts of Aruba, frolicking with stingrays in the clear waters of Grand Cayman, and wandering around Old San Juan. 

Advance bookings can also be cheaper than the same trip booked onboard the ship (assuming it's still available), making early reservations a sound financial choice. For other tours that pique your interest, but that aren't bucket-list choices, head for the excursions desk on the ship as soon as you board, and hand over a payment card so the staff can keep a space for you.

Not Canceling In Time

There will be times when you book an excursion and later realize that it's not for you, either because the places and topics covered are no longer of interest, or, on further reflection, the trip might be more challenging than you expected. In those situations, you are certainly within your rights to cancel the excursion — don't consider it in the same way as a non-refundable airfare or hotel booking, which locks you in from the get-go. That said, there are certain restrictions that travelers need to be aware of when nixing the booking. If you cancel the trip within a finite window, for some cruise lines this is five days before the start of the sailing (for others, it can be 24 hours), then you might be eligible for a full refund. Any later than this, and the amount of any refund varies by cruise line, with policies clearly outlined online. 

As a rule of thumb, the closer to the trip the cancellation is made, the greater the penalty you will have to pay, meaning you will get less of your money back (and in certain circumstances, you will forfeit the full cost of the excursion). Be sure to check the cancellation windows for the cruise company that you will travel with. There are also times when the organizer of the excursion — typically an outside vendor that the cruise line has a relationship with — cancels the trip, in which case passengers get a full refund.

Not Considering An Alternative

Some destinations have plenty of shore excursions that might appeal to a range of travelers, and some of those might even be bucket-list trips. However, those once-in-a-lifetime journeys are also likely to be the most popular ones, and usually sell out quickly, as we've already noted above. Always have a backup choice, a Plan B (and even a Plan C), if the excursion that you are interested in has sold out before you signed up. 

Visitors to Athens, for example, often dream of taking a tour of the Acropolis , a homage to the gods set high above the Greek capital, but this tour can quickly sell out. In that case, why not opt for a food tour instead, another way to enjoy some of the city's unique delights? If none of the back-ups seem interesting, then you shouldn't feel forced to choose one of them just because they have spots on them, or due to peer pressure. You are, after all, paying for the privilege of taking the excursion, and there's no point dropping a wad of cash on a trip that you know you won't enjoy.

Not Looking At Reviews

It's common practice these days for diners trying out a new restaurant to look at reviews, either published in a book (for the dinosaurs among us), or more likely online, some reviews appearing within a day of the meal. So why wouldn't cruise passengers do the same for a shore excursion? There are many independent reviews posted about excursions online, and travelers would be foolish not to pore over them before deciding to take a trip. 

While each review might not pinpoint which cruise line the trip was taken with, the summaries do give a sense of what visitors can expect when taking the excursion. Cruise Critic is a good place to start; it lists a number of excursions available through its travel partner Viator, along with reviews of them. The point of reading these reviews is to get a sense of the trip, which is likely to be similar (if not identical) to anything offered by the cruise companies, and make a calculated choice based on your findings.

Not Packing Appropriately

Whatever the type of excursion you book, it is key to pack properly, not just on the day itself, but ahead of time, before you get on the boat for the first day of departure. Knowing which shore excursions you will be taking before you set sail will, of course, help you to choose the appropriate items to pack, which is just another reason why it helps to have these trips booked and paid for well beforehand. When at home, pulling together pieces to put in your suitcase, think about the excursions you will be taking and what you will need on them. 

If you suffer from sea sickness on small boats and will take a boat excursion around the Mediterranean, pack nausea pills. For a hiking trip to a waterfall in Jamaica, bring sturdy footwear and maybe some insect repellent. For each excursion, it helps to be as self-sufficient as possible, so things like snacks, hydrating liquids, comfortable shoes, the right kind of clothing for each specific trip (swimming gear, hiking wear, modest outfits for visits to religious shrines, etc.), sunblock, a hat, and so on, will ensure that you are prepared for the rigors of the excursion.

Not Doing Your Research On The Port

Just like shore excursions, not all destinations are created equal. Some have almost too much to see, some would struggle to keep your attention for a full day, so it pays dividends to know more about a place ahead of time, to learn about it and decide whether it's something of interest. Cruise itineraries are intricately planned and plotted routes, and list, in detail, the days and stops made en route, so travelers can, months ahead of the voyage, scope out where the vessel will visit. Take some time to carry out investigations on each place where the liner will dock. 

Are there special buildings at the port that shouldn't be missed, or is the food in the city/island extraordinary? Is the stop a glorified tourist trap with nothing but overpriced souvenir stalls and hustlers congregated near the docks, or it is teeming with unique, fascinating local culture? Just because the ship stops at a port, you don't have to get off, and you can choose what you'll do with your day with a sense of wisdom if you've done your homework.

Not Being Realistic

Let's get one thing straight. A shore excursion is just that, a quick trip that gives you a taste of a destination, which is obvious when you understand its parameters — you have a set amount of time on a short trip organized by the cruise line to see a specific roster of sights. It's a bit like going to a restaurant but instead of taking a leisurely meal at the table there, you get the food to go. 

Travelers are never really going to get under the skin of a destination when taking a shore excursion, they won't be able to explore a place in-depth, or in any meaningful way. If that is the kind of travel you prefer, then think twice, not just about shore excursions but cruising as a way to see the world. But excursions do allow passengers to sample many items conveniently, like a buffet where you can nibble on a different tasty morsel each day. They are also hassle-free, with everything set up for you, and safe, which can be a big concern for people traveling to any destination for the first, or even 15th, time.

Not Accepting If An Excursion Is Right For You

The disconnect between what a trip entails as described on paper, and whether it's appropriate for you can be hard to gauge. At times like these, a good place to start is to use common sense — don't take a hiking excursion if you have creaky knees or difficulty walking, steer clear of the group snorkeling tour in Grand Turk if you are terrified of fish, skip the backcountry ATV forage along dirt roads if you have sensitivity to dust, and maybe think twice about the zip-line jaunt if you have an intense fear of heights. 

These excursions sound wildly fun from their promotional material, and they generally are, but you shouldn't succumb to doing something that you wouldn't do normally just because you are on vacation. After all, your body's limitations don't miraculously change when you are on holiday. Most excursions detail what the trip involves, the conditions to expect, and whether they are strenuous/challenging or not. If, after reading the blurbs, that isn't clear, ask questions from the cruise line. That way, you will avoid disappointment and discomfort down the road.

Not Enjoying The Company Of Strangers

Unless you opt for the private tours that some cruise lines offer, or research and arrange one on your own, chances are that you won't be alone on the excursion. Beyond your family and friends on the trip with you, you are likely to be surrounded by strangers, some of which you may have seen on the ship or greeted with a "hello" or "good morning" at some point during the sailing. Shore excursions are group efforts, and while there might be times during them when you can separate yourself from the pack (some incorporate sections of free time), they are designed to move throughout the day with participants forming one solid mass (it's much easier for the tour leader to keep track of his charges when they stick together, and it's also safer). 

If you don't want to be around strangers, but still want to explore the destination, consider planning the trip with a local operator, or just wander around the port independently, free and easy. Also note that when you are on a shore excursion with a large group, it can only proceed as quickly as the slowest person on it, something to consider if you are a restless traveler always ready to move on to the next thing.

Not Paying Attention To The Excursion Details

In a brochure, or in marketing collateral, all shore excursions are designed to sound amazing, trips that can't be missed, passages of fun and festivity that offer a window onto the local environment. But passengers should read the details of the trip carefully to see what they will actually be doing, and for how long. 

Cruise ships stopping at Rome, for instance, dock at the town of Civitavecchia, outside the heart of the city, and getting into the Italian capital usually takes more than an hour. Factor in the return time, and a little bit of leeway added for traffic, and that eight-hour excursion exploring Rome's top sights will only spend about five hours in the city (one of those probably taken up by a stop for lunch). The point here is not to be seduced by the snazzy or grand name of an excursion, but to delve deeper, and get into the nitty-gritty of the whats and hows. That's the only way to see if the trip is worth it.

Not Going Out On Your Own

Of course, a cruise line can't offer excursions that will appeal to everyone, and sometimes travelers find there isn't a trip that interests them. Alternatively, passengers might find a trip they like but are put off by the high price of what seems like a straightforward itinerary. In these circumstances, you should explore booking an excursion independently, which is very easily done. Sites like Shore Excursions Group have thousands of options all over the globe, though some of the trips might place you in a group with other travelers from the same ship anyway. 

Shore excursions that travelers put together themselves tend to be cheaper than those booked through the cruise line since you are removing one link in the chain of expenses by bypassing the cruise company. An even cheaper option, of course, is to not book an excursion, but to head out to the port and do some impromptu exploration around the dock, maybe enjoy a little shopping for souvenirs, have lunch at a local joint, or even find a taxi and hire it for a few hours to show you some local sights or take you to a tucked-away beach. If you do this though, always remain aware of your surroundings and take extra precautions to stay safe, since you won't have a tour leader keeping a beady eye on you.

Not Watching The Clock

Cruise trips tend to follow a strict, regimented schedule, from the micro (meals, show times, screenings, etc.), to the macro (port arrival and departure, times when shops or casinos open and close, etc.). That rigor extends to the times that excursions leave from the ship and the time when a passenger has to be back on board when visiting a port. If you are late for an excursion, don't expect a crew member to come running through the ship looking for you in the way that airline staff sometimes wander around a departure hall calling out a passenger's name. Arrive for the excursion assembly point late, and you will be out of luck because the excursion will leave without you. 

You also need to be back on the ship by the specified time outlined at each port — if you aren't clear when that is, or don't see it displayed near the security checkpoint by the gangway, ask a crew member or stop by the excursions deck. One huge advantage of booking an excursion directly through the cruise is that the ship will not set sail until everyone that took one of those trips is back onboard; this isn't the case for independently arranged excursions.

Not Taking A Break

If you don't feel like going on an excursion, the simple answer is ... don't. While excursions offer a fabulous way to see the world, the ship itself has plenty to offer to keep travelers entertained or to help them relax and unwind, the main point of a vacation, after all. There is absolutely no reason to feel guilty about wanting to experience the boat when it's empty, to hang out by the pool with a soothing tipple in hand, and soak in the tranquility as fellow passengers pour into the port. 

Excursion times are a good moment to wander around the ship. You can really get a handle on the facilities without feeling rushed or having someone looking over your shoulder, waiting their turn. It's also a good time to get to know the crew and learn some of the stories from staff that hail from all corners of the globe. And by not getting off at the port, you're likely saving yourself a chunk of change.

Not Respecting Local Customs

Not every place is the same as home, and thank goodness for that. Without the variety and richness of cultures around the world, there would be little joy in travel, witnessing the same experiences replicated in place after place. However, with those differences come variations in the level of tolerance for things, and each place's customs and guidelines are distinct. 

Take some time to learn about the traditions in each place that you visit, and if you are unsure, consult with a member of the crew. When visiting a religious site, for instance, always dress modestly. Wandering around Southeast Asia, a part of the world that tends to be hot and sticky, locals rarely wear shorts, so if you don't want to stick out as a tourist, consider donning lightweight pants. If you are taking a snorkeling tour in the Caribbean, bring something to cover up for the times when you aren't in the water.

Not Carrying Money

A wonderful part of the shore excursion is the opportunity to experience a different atmosphere each day. It's possible, depending on the itinerary of a sailing, for the food, language, architecture, and customs to be wholly separate from that at the port a day earlier, adding layers of intrigue and novelty to every stop. The shopping in each place is also likely to be different, and when out on the town, or in a small pottery studio in the back-country, or by a farm stall that's a stop during the excursion, you might find something unique when you least expect it, that one tchotchke that you don't know how you ever lived without. 

At times like these, be sure to have money on hand; sometimes a credit card is enough, as vendors are savvy enough to not say no to money in any shape or form, but for smaller set-ups, cash remains king. At ports not far from the United States, dollars usually work, but for destinations in Europe, Australia, or Asia, you'll need to snap up some local currency (it also feels pretty cool to have bills from other countries in your wallet, like you're a jet-setter).

Not Taking A Fully Charged Camera

While you can take some great photos of your time on the boat, especially those where ports and coastlines fill the background, the best memories are likely to be from the shore excursions. The trips out onto land, or into the water, will create moments to celebrate for a lifetime, even better if you capture them with photos. To do that, you need to bring a fully charged camera/phone, and maybe a power bank/extra batteries, on the excursion, so start the charging the night before. 

As important is taking the right type of camera — an action camera for hikes, one that can handle being underwater for snorkeling trips, maybe a DSLR if you are visiting iconic buildings, or want to capture flora and fauna, and for all other scenarios, a phone camera will suffice. That way, in years to come, you can easily visualize the time you stood in front glaciers in Alaska, had an espresso by a canal in Venice, visited a village in rural Fiji, or sample street food in Bangkok.

Read this next: The Ultimate Guide To Perfectly Packing For Your Cruise Vacation

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Aarhus (Denmark)

Cruise port schedule, live map, terminals, news.

Region Baltic - Norwegian Fjords - Russia

Local Time 2024-04-16 23:39

Port Aarhus cruise ship schedule shows timetable calendars of all arrival and departure dates by month. The port's schedule lists all ships (in links) with cruises going to or leaving from Aarhus, Denmark. To see the full itineraries (ports of call dates and arrival / departure times) and their lowest rates – just follow the corresponding ship-link.

Aarhus is Denmark's largest seaport and city on Jutland Peninsula's eastern coast. It is located approx 187 km (116 mi) northwest of Copenhagen (country's capital) and approx 290 km (180 mi) north of Hamburg Germany . The city has population around 275,000 (metro around 340,000), ranking it Denmark's second-largest (after Copenhagen).

Among the well-known tourist attractions are ARoS Art Museum, Old Town Museum, Tivoli Friheden (amusement park), Moesgård Museum, Kvindemuseet (Women's Museum), The city is also a great shopping destination. Most foreign tourists are from Norway, Sweden, Germany and the UK. Overall annual tourist spending in the city is around USD 540 million. The average hotel stay is 3 days.

Port Aarhus

Port Aarhus (locode DKAAR) is Denmark's largest and also one of northern Europe's biggest cargo ports (ranked 1st among the 200+ Baltic Sea cargo ports). It has the country's largest containership terminal handling over 1/2 of the country's container shipping traffic, 60% of the bulk cargo traffic and capacity to berth world's largest boxships .

The port is located at the mouth of Aarhus River in Kattegat Sea, facing Helgenæs peninsula (east), Samso Island (southeast) and Riis Skov forest park (north). The seaport is self-governing and financially independent company managed by the municipality. Here are handled around 9,5 million cargo tons per year. The principal export is grain. Main imports include stone, cement, coal.

The port has all 6 terminals - containership , multi-use, for bulk carriers, for oil tankers, ferries and cruise liners.

• Container Terminal has pier length 1,300 km, water depth (max draft) 14 m and is served by 8 gantry cranes (3 Post-Panamax, 4 Super Post-Panamax and 1 Panamax).
• Multi-use Terminal serves bulk carriers (shipping mainly coal and feedstuffs), also project cargo (wood, windmills).
• Bulk Terminal serves loose cargo carriers shipping mainly grain, sand, gravel, cement.
• Tanker Terminal serves ships carrying mineral oils, gasoline, molasses, also chemical tankers.

Aarhus Ferry Terminal is used mainly by MOLSLINJEN ferries, serving annually ~1 million vehicles and ~2 million passengers. Aarhus Cruise Terminal serves cruise ships with Baltic Sea itineraries, operated between March and November.

The Container Terminal is operated under concession by APM Terminals Aarhus - part of APM Terminals (2001-founded, The Hague Holland -based port and terminals management company, one of the world's largest). In 2020, APM Aarhus handled 593,670 TEU-containers (13% increase over 2019). APM Aarhus handles ~60% of Denmark's boxship traffic.

In 2016 was inaugurated a regular flight service (via floatplanes) from Aarhus to Copenhagen, with fly time ~40 min (train travel time is ~3 hours).

Aarhus Ferry Terminal is currently the only alternative to Storebæltsforbindelsen (Great Belt Fixed Link) that crosses the strait between the islands Zealand and Funen. The route is served with regularly scheduled ferries since 1830. The current main ferry operator is MOLSLINJEN, with annual traffic ~2 million passengers and 1 million vehicles. Ro-Ro ships (cargo ferries) link Aarhus to Kalundborg and Finland (regular weekly service).

Aarhus is also becoming a cruise port destination for companies operating on Baltic Sea itineraries. In 2010, it was visited by just 2 ships and ~4300 tourists. In 2012 it handled 18 ship calls and over 38,000 passengers. In 2013 were handled 13 cruise calls. In 2018 were booked 41 cruise ship berthings with estimated nearly 100,000 passengers.

In March 2022, Port Aarhus contracted Shore Link OU ( Tallinn Estonia -based engineering company specializing in port shorepower solutions) and PowerCon AS (Hadsund Denmark-based manufacturing company specializing in wind turbines) to design, supply and install a shore-power system. Shoreside power capabilities allow berthed vessels to turn off their diesel engines and instead use the city's power-grid electricity for onboard operations and services. The new system (inaugurated in June 2023) has a separate "CMS Cruiser"/smaller capacity unit designed exclusively for cruise liners. The other Danish cruise port with shore power capabilities is Copenhagen .

Aarhus Port's shore-power facility was inaugurated on June 20, 2023, with AIDAmar ship . The system's total cost was EUR 7 million, of which 5M from the Port, 1M from the city and 1M from the European Union. The energy provider is the local company KONSTANT Net AS.

Aarhus cruise terminal

Port Aarhus welcomes cruise ship passengers with live performances by Den Jyske Pigegarde (orchestra and dance girls aged 8-25) - usually a folk dance show. The terminal is located across the street from downtown. The quay was extensively improved in 2012.

Since 2018, cruise passengers in Aarhus are welcomed by local hosts. These are around 1300 volunteers serving as hosts for cruisers. They all wear blue t-shirts and badgets signed "ASK ME", and assist the disembarking tourists with various cultural events in the city.

Aarhus cruise port is located 3 hours from Copenhagen by bus. There are bus connections to Hamburg too. The closest airport is Tirstrup (45 min by bus).

The Old Town: or Den Gamle By can be described as a museum at open air. It comprises 75 buidings with rich historical heritage. The belong to 20 different Danish towns and have been rebuilt in this village. Some of the houses date from the 15th century. The best time to visit Den Gamle By is at Christmas.

Aarhus Cathedral: Århus Domkirke is the longest Danish cathedral. Its length is 93 m and has seats for 1,200 people. Originally, the Aarhus Cathedral dated from the 12th century by fire destroyed it in 1330. The current building dates from 1449 and has a stunning decoration.

The Natural History Museum: or the Naturhistorisk Museum. It houses collections of stuffed and preserved animals and hominid skeletons from all over the world.

The Steno Museum: the Steno Museet is an unique place to visit if you are interested in medicine. You can discover the development of the medicine science or visit the garden where you can explore over 350 plants used as a medicine form.

The Customs Chamber: the Toldkammeret is located near Aarhus’s old inner harbor. Its designer is Hack Kampmann and the building dates from the end of 19th century.

Aarhus tours, shore excursions, hotels

City tours and shore excursions.

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Aarhus - user reviews and comments

Best Hawaii cruise shore excursions

A Hawaii cruise offers a convenient way to island-hop as you experience Oahu, Maui, Kauai and the island of Hawaii from both sea and land — but what exactly should you do while ashore? Choosing a cruise shore excursion in Hawaii can be tough since the 50th State offers a wide range of activities, including snorkeling and whale watching, visits to historic landmarks and sacred Hawaiian sites, and scenic excursions to breathtaking canyons and volcanoes. Foodies, fans of Hollywood blockbusters and thrill-seekers can easily get their fix, too.

With an average of eight to 10 hours on each island — although some cruises do stay overnight in select ports — it's possible to enjoy experiences that not only explore Hawaii's best-known natural, cultural and historic sites but also satisfy your own personal interests.

While shore excursion offerings, itineraries and prices vary by cruise line, here are our overall picks for the best Hawaii cruise shore excursions and what you can expect to pay.

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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.

• $ = under $70.
• $$ = $70-$140.
• $$$ = $140-$200.
• $$$$ = over $200.

Honolulu, Oahu

Pearl Harbor

Price: $$-$$$

Pearl Harbor, one of Oahu's best-known sights, can be tricky to visit on your own because the historic World War II memorials commemorating the Dec. 7, 1941 bombing by the Japanese are located on an active military base with stringent security protocols. (No bags of any size are allowed and phones and wallets must be carried in a clear plastic bag or in a pocket.) A guided tour will get you into Pearl Harbor in a hassle-free manner and make it easy to visit the multiple sites — the USS Arizona Memorial, the USS Missouri battleship, USS Bowfin submarine and the Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum — with the required reservations already arranged.

Some cruise lines offer multiple Pearl Harbor excursions with variations in the sites visited, so be sure to read tour descriptions carefully. If your cruise begins or ends in Honolulu, Pearl Harbor visits are often offered on embarkation or disembarkation day packaged with a hotel or airport transfer. Other Pearl Harbor shore excursions include a Honolulu city tour that visits Diamond Head Crater and the National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific.

Important to know: Most Pearl Harbor shore excursions last five to seven hours and are appropriate for all ages. There is quite a bit of walking involved and some stair climbing is required to visit the USS Missouri, where the formal surrender ceremony by the Japanese took place on Sept. 2, 1945, ending WWII. The somber USS Arizona Memorial, where 1,177 sailors and civilians died (many of them entombed in the sunken wreck) is reached by a short boat ride.

Related: Shore excursions: What new cruisers need to know

Diamond Head Crater hike

Diamond Head Crater, the photogenic volcanic landmark seen in many images of Waikiki Beach, isn't just amazing to look at — it's also incredible to climb. Active cruisers can take on the challenge during a guided Diamond Head adventure hike to its 763-foot summit. The payoff? Stunning 360-degree views of Waikiki, downtown Honolulu and the Pacific Ocean.

This excursion requires you to ascend a series of moderate but sometimes uneven switchback trails followed by a walk through a narrow 200-foot tunnel. You'll then climb up two sets of steep stairs (76 steps and 99 steps, respectively). Those who choose the more difficult route to the summit will need to climb the 99 steps and an interior spiral staircase to reach the historic lookout bunkers. If you choose the easier route to the summit up the scenic Loop Trail, you'll then descend into the bunker and down the spiral staircase and 99 steps. You can also retrace your steps and descend on the Loop Trail.

Important to know: Book an early morning tour if it's offered, since temperatures escalate quickly by midmorning; wear sneakers and a hat and bring sunscreen and water. The hike is about 1.6 miles roundtrip and takes 60 to 90 minutes depending on the group and the number of people on the trail; total tour time is three to three and a half hours.

Oahu's North Shore tour

If you've visited Honolulu before or simply prefer scenic locales to cities, a good option is a tour that whisks you away from the bustle of downtown Honolulu and Waikiki and through the Ko'oalu Mountains to the immersive beauty of Oahu's North Shore. This lush and dramatic coastline is known for the big waves that pound its beaches from October to March and for its waterfalls, sugarcane fields and historic fish ponds. The region is visually stunning and its small towns offer a chance to sample Hawaiian cuisine, especially garlic shrimp, and shop for locally grown products such as macadamia nuts and pineapples.

Highlights include big-wave surfers riding the famed Banzai Pipeline (during winter months); the Byodo Temple, a Buddhist shrine built amid towering green peaks in 1968 to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the first Japanese immigrants to Hawaii; the waterfalls of Waimea Valley; and historic Haleiwa Town.

Important to know: North Shore excursions are typically five to seven hours in length with at least half the time spent on the tour bus. On sailings that end in Honolulu, some cruise lines offer panoramic North Shore tours combined with an airport drop-off (available for those with flights departing after 5:00 p.m.).

Iolani Palace and Hawaiian Monarchs tour

If Hawaii's royal history intrigues you, some cruise lines offer excursions that visit Iolani Palace, the final residence of the islands' kings and queens, and other sites of royal significance. Constructed in 1882, Iolani is the only royal palace in the United States; it was home to King Kalakaua, who built it, and his sister and successor, Queen Liliuokalani, who was imprisoned there after the U.S. annexed Hawaii. A circa-1883 statue of King Kamehameha I, who unified the Hawaiian Islands in 1810, and Kawaiahao Church, completed in 1842, are also nearby in downtown Honolulu.

Other royal sites that might be visited on a more extensive tour include the Pali Lookout, where Kamehameha I conquered the island of Oahu in 1795, and Mauna Ala, the royal mausoleum where six of the last eight Hawaiian monarchs are entombed.

Important to know: Most Iolani Palace and royal-focused shore excursions last about four hours and combine a bus tour with a self-guided audio tour of the palace.

Related: 10 cruise ship excursions to avoid

Kahului, Maui

Haleakala Crater

Price: $$$-$$$$

Experiencing Haleakala Crater is on many Maui visitors' must-do lists and there are several ways to visit the slumbering 10,023-foot-tall volcanic peak that dominates the island's landscape. (Don't worry – it last erupted in 1790.) A few shore excursion options require that your cruise ship overnights in Kahului, the main port, or Lahaina, or has a late sail-away time.

Haleakala means "House of the Sun" and perhaps the most surreal experiences are tours at sunrise or sunset (available on sailings that overnight in Maui). To experience sunrise high above the clouds you'll need to depart the ship before 3:00 a.m. and wind your way up Haleakala's curving roadway in total darkness before watching the sun brighten the horizon and illuminate the vast 3,000-feet-deep crater with its dramatic orange-hued cinder cones. In contrast, a sunset tour lets you survey the crater and then watch as the sun disappears below the clouds and the night sky fills with twinkling stars. If you just want to experience Haleakala's scenic slopes and crater in daylight, panoramic sightseeing tours are also available.

If you're more adventurous, there are also Haleakala downhill biking tours, which transport you by minibus to an elevation of 6,500 feet and let you ride 14 miles down the switchback road on Haleakala's slopes amid the farms of Upcountry. Most bike tours do not offer access to the summit and crater.

Important to know: Haleakala tours typically last four to seven hours. Because of Haleakala's high altitude and volcanic nature, they aren't recommended for anyone with respiratory or heart problems. Temperatures are much cooler (45 to 65 degrees) at the summit, so bring a sweater or jacket.

Road to Hana

Driving Maui's legendary Road to Hana, a narrow, twisting, 52-mile route with more than 600 hairpin curves and 59 one-lane bridges, takes considerable concentration — but a Road to Hana tour on a professionally driven minibus frees everyone in your travel group to relax and enjoy the epic scenery along the way. Most cruise lines offer full-day excursions to Hana, a low-key hamlet located on the island's east coast amid jagged volcanic rocks and black-sand beaches.

Besides the thrill of this one-of-a-kind drive, which takes two to three hours to navigate, a Road to Hana excursion offers a chance to experience Maui's splendid bays and lush landscape of lava pinnacles, tropical fruit trees, giant ferns and rushing waterfalls. Highlights include the black-sand beach at Wai'anapanapa State Park, Pua'a Ka'a State Park and the Seven Sacred Pools of Ohe'o Gulch with its multiple cascades and soothing natural pools.

Important to know: Road to Hana excursions typically take nine to 10 hours, include lunch and aren't recommended for anyone prone to motion sickness. Sites visited vary by cruise line and some tours allow time for swimming.

Molokini Crater snorkel

Maui is home to one of the premier snorkel spots in Hawaii: Molokini, a mostly submerged crescent-shaped volcanic islet located about 2.5 miles off Maui's southern coast. This protected marine conservation site is reached via a scenic catamaran sail, during which guides will outfit you with snorkel gear and provide instructions for exploring these crystal-clear reef waters teeming with colorful sea life. Some excursions also visit Turtle Arches, lava formations known for frequent sea turtle sightings, and during humpback season (December to April), it's also possible to spot whales in the area.

Important to know: Molokini Crater snorkel tours are generally four hours long and all equipment, as well as breakfast, lunch or snacks and beverages, are provided. Water conditions can vary, so if seasickness is a problem, take that into consideration before booking.

Related: Ship-sponsored vs. independent shore excursions on cruises: Which should you book?

Whale watching

If you're cruising Hawaii between December and April and you're fascinated by whales, Maui offers a terrific opportunity to see pods of humpbacks in their winter playground. More than 10,000 of these charismatic giants migrate here annually to mate and give birth. Their activities — tail slaps, breaches and calves swimming alongside their mothers — are all on display as you venture out in a whale-watching boat, or perhaps a more adventurous Zodiac. Most tours are led by naturalist guides, and in some cases a portion of the cost is earmarked for conservation through the Pacific Whale Foundation.

Important to know: Expect to spend about three hours at sea as guides search for whales; sightings, while likely, aren't always guaranteed. Water conditions can also vary and seasickness is a possibility.

Nawiliwili, Kauai

Waimea Canyon tour

Price: $-$$

Nicknamed the "Grand Canyon of the Pacific," Waimea Canyon is a 10-mile-long gorge known for the dramatic red and green hues of craggy cliffs that extend up to 3,000 feet below its rim. Located within Waimea Canyon State Park, which now requires reservations for individual visits, this scenic treasure can be viewed from lookout points.

A shore excursion that allows for about 30 minutes of viewing and picture taking is certainly the easiest way to see the canyon from a cruise ship. These tours include lots of scenic touring during the 90-minute drive each way between the cruise terminal and the canyon; many stop at the Spouting Horn blowhole or small towns in Kauai's Koloa district.

But there are caveats, namely that rainy conditions on Kauai, which is Hawaii's wettest island, can fog in the gorge and make for a disappointing outing. Kauai's driest months are April to September.

Important to know: Most Waimea Canyon excursions take four to five hours; some longer Best of Kauai excursions combine a visit to the canyon with a Wailua River cruise to the Fern Grotto.

Related: Best time to cruise Hawaii

Hollywood in Hawaii tour

Fans of "Jurassic Park" probably know that much of the 1993 Steven Spielberg movie was filmed on Kauai — but a number of other big-screen and TV classics were, too. Movie-set tours are popular excursions, especially for film buffs. These tours take place on minibuses or motor coaches outfitted with TV screens, so you can watch snippets of Hollywood movies where they were filmed and, in some places, get out and snap photos yourself.

Besides "Jurassic Park," other movies and TV shows filmed on the island include "Tropic Thunder," "Pirates of the Caribbean," "Six Days and Seven Nights," "Blue Hawaii," "South Pacific," "Donovan's Reef," "Gilligan's Island," "Fantasy Island" and "The Amazing Race."

Important to know: Most movie-set excursions take about five to six hours and primarily involve scenic touring — so even if you haven't seen the movies, it's an entertaining and comfortable way to sightsee Kauai.

Wailua River cruise and Fern Grotto

Price: $$ - $$$

Kauai is home to Hawaii's only navigable river, the Wailua River, which offers access to one of its lushest hidden spots: the Fern Grotto. This excursion combines a relaxing cruise with insights into Hawaiian culture and entertainment in the form of Hawaiian song and dance. The tourist boats that navigate this peaceful river through Wailua River State Park are run by a local family with members providing commentary.

Access to the Fern Grotto, a natural lava-rock cave covered with lush tropical vines, requires a 10-minute walk along a mostly flat, paved and shaded path. Upon arrival at the Fern Grotto, photo ops and additional entertainment await. Wailua River cruise tours also generally stop for picture-taking at Opaeka'a Falls, a 151-foot cascade that plunges into a secluded pool.

Important to know: Most Wailua River and Fern Grotto excursions are three to four hours long. Tours that combine those sights with a tour of Waimea Canyon last about seven hours and include lunch.

 Hilo, Hawaii

Hawaii Volcanoes National Park

While Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, one of Hawaii's most popular tourist attractions, is accessible from both cruise ports on the island of Hawaii, it's a quicker trip (about 30 to 35 minutes' drive each way) from Hilo. Most cruise lines offer excursions, but almost all of them are just a basic introduction that only touches on what this 505-square-mile national park has to offer.

The main activity involves visiting several viewpoints and steam vents on the rim of Kilauea Crater with a guide who offers commentary on this active volcano's history, geology and current status. It's unlikely you'll see molten lava, and most tours do not drive out along the famous Chain of Craters Road. Some tours, however, do include a walk through the 500-year-old Thurston Lava Tube.

Other longer and more costly excursions of up to seven hours combine a visit to the national park with a helicopter flight-seeing tour and/or stops at various waterfalls or gardens near Hilo.

Important to know: Standard Hawaii Volcanoes National Park tours are about four hours long, and many also make a stop at the Mauna Loa Macadamia Nut Visitor Center for tastings and shopping. The walk to the rim of the Kilauea crater is mostly on gravel or dirt pathways, but some areas overlooking the crater have potential trip hazards. Also, because the crater emits volcanic gases, these tours aren't advised for people with respiratory issues.

Hilo waterfalls and gardens

Hilo's location on the island of Hawaii's lush leeward side makes it a mecca for cascading waterfalls and verdant gardens. Cruise ship excursions that visit several falls or combine a visit to a single waterfall with a stop at a botanical garden, tropical zoo or orchid farm are popular.

The two major falls near Hilo are the 100-foot Rainbow Falls, which earned its name from the prismatic effect that takes place on sunny mornings, and the powerful Akaka Falls, which is reached via a walk through a tropical forest and tumbles a breathtaking 442 feet. Other tour stops could include Hilo's Liliuokalani Gardens (the largest Japanese garden outside of Japan), the Nani Mau Gardens or the Pana'ewa Rainforest Gardens and Zoo.

Important to know: Waterfalls and gardens shore excursions vary in length from four to seven hours, and participants should expect to be on their feet for a good portion of the tour. Rainbow Falls is easily accessible from the parking lot. To see Akaka Falls, you must navigate quite a few steps and walk a half-mile circular path.

Related: Avoid these 10 mistakes when booking cruise shore excursions

Volcano Winery

The island of Hawaii is home to Volcano Winery, the southernmost winery in the U.S. If sipping vino is a favorite pastime — and you have a curious palate — an excursion here could be a relaxing way to spend a few hours. Volcano Winery, which is family-owned and located at an elevation of 4,000 feet, specializes in tropical blends by mixing distinctive local fruits such as yellow guava and even tea and honey with grape varietals that include Pinot Noir and Cayuga to produce uniquely flavored wines. It also produces some 100% grape wines.

Important to know: Excursions to Volcano Winery are generally three hours long and include a tour of the winery and a tasting.

Kona, Hawaii

Kona Coast snorkel

For passengers who didn't get a chance to snorkel in Maui, the waters just off Kona's rugged lava coast offer another excellent opportunity to spy on Mother Nature's underwater handiwork. Most cruise lines offer a snorkel excursion by catamaran that will allow even novices to don a mask and fins and behold the intricate coral and dazzling reef fish that call the area's tranquil bays and coves home. Dolphin spotting is also possible.

A more adventurous option is a snorkel tour by Zodiac, which combines the thrill of zipping around in a 24-foot motorized raft with enjoying up-close views of coastal caves and lava tubes — and some snorkel time, of course.

Important to know: Most catamaran snorkel excursions are appropriate for all ages, last about four hours and include either breakfast or lunch; all equipment, including flotation aids, is provided and some catamarans are equipped with a diving board and waterslide for added fun. Zodiac excursions are more physically demanding and are not recommended if you have back or neck problems; you also need to be able to climb back into the raft via a small four-rung ladder.

Atlantis Submarine

Price: $$-$$$$

If you've never been in a submarine, Kona offers a chance to see the area's abundant sea life as you venture 100 feet below the surface of the Kona coast's crystal-clear waters. The Atlantis Submarine (also operating on Maui and Oahu) is U.S. Coast Guard-certified, fully air-conditioned and offers individual viewing portholes.

Important to know: Atlantis Submarine excursions last about one and a half hours and are not recommended for anyone prone to claustrophobia or motion sickness; you must be at least 3 feet tall and able to climb a vertical 12-step ladder into and out of the submarine. Excursion costs vary widely from cruise line to cruise line.

Kona coffee tour

Kona is famous for the coffee that grows in its rich volcanic soil, so if you want to taste a cup of Joe right at the source, this port is the place to do it. Cruise lines offer a variety of coffee-themed excursions; some are geared to education about the farming and production process while others focus more on sampling the goods and buying souvenirs to take home.

Some foodie-focused tours combine coffee sipping with locally grown chocolate tastings and visits to Kona-based breweries, while other full-day excursions pair a visit to a coffee farm with a cloud forest tour or a tour of Kona's top historic sights and a snorkel in Kealakekua Bay.

Important info: Kona coffee excursions are mostly three to four hours long. However, costs vary widely depending on the type of excursion, from a simple tasting room visit to a farm-based roasting experience.

Place of Refuge and Painted Church

History buffs will find plenty to love on this guided bus excursion, which visits cultural and religious sites along the Kona Coast. Three key locations are on the itinerary, the first being Kealakekua Bay, where legendary Captain Cook met his demise at the hands of local Hawaiians in 1778 and is memorialized in a monument.

Nearby is the second stop: St. Benedict's Painted Church. While the outside of this small Catholic church built in 1899 looks traditional, the inside dazzles with the artwork of Father John Velghe, a Belgian priest who drew the murals in an effort to teach local Hawaiians how to read.

The third is Pu'uhonua O Honaunau, which means "Place of Refuge at Honaunau." Built in 1650 and carefully restored, this cultural site is an ancient Hawaiian religious sanctuary where the bones of Hawaiian chiefs were once stored. It later became a place of refuge for defeated warriors.

Important to know: Place of Refuge and Painted Church excursions are typically three to four hours long and involve a minimal amount of walking.

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