Category: Caribbean

JUNGLE RIVER TUBING

See the jungles of Jamaica’s Falmouth by gliding along its landmark river, the Martha Brae, in a tube on this approximately three-hour excursion. After enjoying the sights, sounds and scenery of the river on your voyage, you’ll have time to splash about in a water playground, featuring a water slide and waterfall, and a zero entry pool.

Set sail on Jamaica’s Martha Brae River during this excursion of approximately three hours, which lets guests hop into a tube to make the trip even more fun. Begin with an approximately 30-minute transfer drive from the port to the Eco-Adventure Outpost on the vast Good Hope Estate. Once arrived, there’s a short safety briefing and time for optional locker rental.

Then head out onto the water in your tube for an approximately one-hour tour. As you sail, admire the wild greenery and other jungle scenery surrounding you, and consider the legend attached to the river. The story goes that an Arawak witch lived on the banks of the river and was captured by Spanish sailors, who wanted her to lead them to nearby hidden gold. The witch lured the unsuspecting sailors to a cave they believed held the gold, but once in the cave, the witch escaped and changed the course of the river, which flooded the cave and drowned the sailors.

After the tube ride, you’ll have approximately 50 minutes to make the most of Adventure Falls, an aquatic adventure playground back at Eco-Adventure Outpost. Zoom down the giant water slide, relax in the wading pools and seek out the cascading waterfall. Or grab some food and drink at the venue’s restaurant and riverside bar (food and drink costs are not included in the excursion). There’s also an on-site gift shop for those who want a souvenir from their trip. A transfer of around 30 minutes then returns to the port.

Important Information: Please note: food is available for purchase and storage lockers for rental at an additional cost. Max. weight per guest is 300 lbs. The tour is not available for pregnant women or guests with pre-existing back or neck injuries. Guests are recommended to wear swimwear under outer clothing, to use sunscreen and insect repellent as well as to bring a towel. Guests must be at least 6 years of age to participate. Each tube fits 1 guest. Life jackets will be provided and required to be worn

MONTEGO BAY & ROSE HALL GREAT HOUSE

There’s a variety of fun to be had in this trip of approximately four hours around Montego Bay. Take in a tour of a reputedly haunted historic house, as well as shopping time and a visit to the popular ‘Hip Strip’neighbourhood.

This approximately four-hour excursion blends historical tales, shopping and relaxation. Begin by leaving the port for a scenic drive of 30 minutes or so to your first stop, Rose Hall Great House.

Rose Hall Great House is a Georgian mansion that was once a sugar plantation. The house’s most infamous resident was its 19th-century mistress Annie Palmer, often referred to as the ‘White Witch of Rose Hall’. You’ll spend an hour or so on a tour of the house, learning more about Annie’s story and the history of the building. You’ll also be able to enjoy a complimentary drink during your time at the Rose Hall Great House.

According to legend, Annie was raised by her nanny, who was proficient in voodoo. Later, Annie moved to Jamaica and married John Palmer, the owner of Rose Hall, but, as the story goes, she murdered not only John Palmer, but two subsequent husbands and numerous enslaved people on the plantation as well, until she met her own untimely end. Such tales have fuelled the mansion’s notoriety as a haunted landmark.

After you leave Rose Hall, a short journey takes you to Main Street Rose Hall, an outdoor shopping mall, where you’ll be able to enjoy a short, immersive journey through Jamaica’s culture and history through murals and exhibits. There’s approximately one hour of free time at the mall to shop (there are multiple duty-free stores) or perhaps to purchase lunch at one of the many restaurants.

Afterwards, depart on an approximately 35-minute sightseeing drive to Montego Bay town centre and the Hip Strip neighbourhood, before a transfer of approximately 30 minutes returns to the port.

Important Information: Please note: The sequence in which the tour is run may vary.

BAMBOO RAFTING ON THE MARTHA BRAE

Climb aboard a bamboo raft and journey along the Martha Brae River during this approximately three-hour excursion. Spot local flora and fauna as you drift along the river, and take in the scenic drive through Falmouth before embarking on your bamboo rafting adventure.

The Martha Brae River, a short distance south of Falmouth, meanders for over 30 kilometres through Jamaica’s tropical forests. Travel along part of its winding path on a bamboo raft during this approximately three-hour excursion.

The outing begins with a sightseeing drive from the port to the rafting village, lasting around 20 minutes. During the journey, you’ll pass the 18th-century St Peter’s Anglican Church (also known as Trelawny Parish Church), believed to be the oldest church in Falmouth.

Once arrived at the rafting village, board your bamboo vessel and set off on a journey of approximately three miles along the river. Local legend has it that an old Arawak witch lived on the banks of the river and was one day captured by Spanish sailors, who demanded she lead them to nearby hidden gold. The witch escaped by leading the sailors to a cave and changing the course of the river’s flow, which confused and eventually drowned the sailors.

As you glide over the peaceful waters, steered by an experienced rafting guide, look out for the vegetation surrounding you, such as palms, dangling vines and towering trees. After the rafting experience has finished, disembark at Rafter’s Rest. The entire rafting experience, including your time spent at Rafter’s Rest, lasts approximately one hour and 40 minutes. The excursion then concludes with an approximately 30-minute transfer ride back to the port.

Important Information: Please note: Each raft, a bamboo contraption without shade carries an expert raft man and two passengers. Waterproof insect repellent is recommended. Guests may experience wait times prior to boarding the rafts

OCHO RIOS and DUNN’S RIVER FALLS

Fall in love with the famous Dunn’s River Falls during this approximately six-hour excursion. Following free time for exploring the waterfalls, you’ll head to a local restaurant for some typical Jamaican cuisine.

Dunn’s River Falls has become a beloved attraction in the north part of Jamaica, not only for its beauty but also as a natural waterpark. Hike your way to the top of this 55-metre high, 182-metre-long series of cascades during an approximately six-hour excursion, cooling off in its refreshing waters along the way.

The outing begins with a sightseeing bus tour through the Jamaican countryside while on route to the falls, lasting approximately one hour and 20 minutes. Once arrived, hop off the bus and begin your discovery of Dunn’s River Falls over approximately two hours and 10 minutes. Led by tour guides, you’ll hike and climb your way to the top, passing through tropical foliage. During the ascent, you’ll make a stop to feel the soothing effect of the falls’water over your back. Alternatively, if you’d prefer to stay dry, simply enjoy the surroundings from the viewing terrace or deck.

Afterwards, board the bus again for an approximately 30-minute drive to a nearby restaurant. Here, you’ll have around one hour to have a typical Jamaican buffet lunch. A transfer of around one hour then returns to the port.

Important Information: Guests are recommended to bring a towel as well as to wear high-factor sunscreen and swimwear. Slip-proof or water shoes should be worn since climbing the falls’many terraced steps are both strenuous and very slippery. Water shoes are available for purchase at guests expenses during the tour. Lockers available at additional cost, rental is at the guests own risk. Guests wishing to climb the falls must be at least 92 cm/3 ft. in height. Guests will not be permitted to jump from the falls.

Dunn’s River Falls is not available for pregnant women or anyone with heart, neck, back, walking or knee problems. The falls have two entry / exit points: one at the bottom of the falls and another midway, at the whirlpool area, prior to reaching the top. If at one point, guests don’t want to continue climbing the falls, depending on where the climbing started, they may be able to exit earlier and wait for the rest of the group. There may be a queue to climb the falls

BOBSLED JAMAICA & DUNN’S RIVER FALLS WITH RAGGA RIDE

A day of fun and exhilaration awaits you on this approximately six-hour excursion. The itinerary includes a hike to the top of Dunn’s River Falls and a visit to the Mystic Mountain adventure park, where you’ll take a chairlift up a mountain and ride a bobsled.

Thrill-seekers will love this approximately six-hour excursion to Mystic Mountain and Dunn’s River Falls. The outing begins with a scenic bus ride of around one hour and 15 minutes, transporting you from the port to the Mystic Mountain adventure park. Over the next three hours and 45 minutes, you’ll explore the park and also visit Dunn’s River Falls.

At Mystic Mountain, enjoy gliding 213 metres up a mountainside on the Sky Explorer Chairlift. Enjoy soaring views of the scenery as you ascend, then disembark once you reach the top and learn about Jamaica’s history and culture from the displays.

When it’s time to descend, twist and turn your way down some 1,000 metres of track on an exhilarating bobsled ride. An elevated tramway will then take you back up to the summit, where you can take a moment to enjoy views of Ocho Rios as you prepare for your final ride: Raggamuffin. This inverted coaster veers through 14 high-speed turns, defying gravity as you swing out over the cliffs. Before you leave Mystic Mountain, you’ll also be able to enjoy a complimentary lunch.

You’ll also be visiting neighbouring Dunn’s River Falls during the three-hour-and-45-minute segment. Here, a guide will lead you to start exploring the waterfalls – formed from travertine rock – and their tropical surroundings. Over the course of approximately two hours you’ll hike to the top, stopping at some of the refreshing cascades as you go.

Finally, return to the port on a transfer, lasting around one hour and 15 minutes.

Important Information: Please note: Guests will be required to sign a waiver which may only be available in English. The order of the tour may be reversed.

Slip-proof or water shoes should be worn since climbing the falls’many terraced steps is both strenuous and very slippery.  Water shoes are available for purchase at guests expenses during the tour. Guests wishing to climb the falls must be at least 92 cm/3 ft. in height. Guests will not be permitted to jump from the falls. Guests who are pregnant or suffer from pre-existing neck, back, heart, or respiratory problems will not be able to participate on this tour. Likewise this tour is not recommended for anyone with walking or knee problems. The falls have two entry / exit points: one at the bottom of the falls and another midway, at the whirlpool area, prior to reaching the top.

If at one point, guests don’t want to continue climbing the falls, depending on where the climbing started, they may be able to exit earlier and wait for the rest of the group. There may be queues to climb the falls or at Mystic Mountain. Guests must be at least 47 ” tall and 6 years old to participate on the Raggamuffin. The maximum weight for the Raggamuffin is 370 lbs per gondola. Guests must be at least 46 ” tall and 4 years old to participate on the Bobsled. The maximum weight for the Bobsled is 330 lbs per sled. It is recommended that guests bring a bathing suit, towel, and cash/credit cards for food or beverage purchases at Mystic Mountain. The ride to and from Ocho Rios takes approximately 1 hour each way

DOLPHIN SWIM & DUNN’S RIVER FALLS

This combination tour begins with an approximately 1 hour scenic drive with a tour guide on hand to provide you with information on interesting places along the way. Once at Dunn’s River Falls, you can choose either to relax and simply enjoy the greenery or climb up 600 feet of cool, refreshing water as it cascades over natural limestone terraces. Then it’s off to Dolphin Cove where you will be welcomed with some information on dolphins before you enter the world these fascinating aquatic mammals. Your interactive dolphin dip in deep water will then give you a chance to enjoy the thrill of “riding” a dolphin belly to belly and making friends with these lovable and intelligent creatures. At the end of your time in the water, you can spend the rest of the tour simply watching the dolphins at play in their natural habitat, the Caribbean Sea.

The tour will be rounded off by some information on Jamaican culture. You will also be at liberty to use the amenities.
Please note: Neither cameras nor video equipment will be permitted in the dolphin enclosure. Photos of your dolphin experience will be available for sale. There are ramps and comfortable seating areas at both the Dolphin Cove and Dunn’s River Falls for guests who prefer to sit and watch climbers ascend the falls. The tour is not available for pregnant women and guests suffering from pre-existing neck, back, heart or respiratory problems, epilepsy, joint issues, diabetes, motor limitations, guests under the influence of drugs or alcohol, or guests who have had recent surgeries. The maximum weight to participate in the dolphin ride experience is 286 lbs(130kg).

The maximum age to participate in the dolphin experience is 79 years old. All guests should consider their physical fitness before reserving this tour. It is recommended that jewellery and other valuables be left on board the ship. For the dolphin swim program, guests must be at least 48 inches to participate. Life jackets are mandatory to be worn throughout the dolphin program. All guests will be required to sign a waiver, which may only be available in English. All minors under 18 years old must be accompanied by a paying adult throughout the tour.

This tour may be run in reverse order. Guests are recommended to bring a towel as well as to wear eco-friendly sunscreen and swimwear. Slip-proof or water shoes should be worn since climbing Dunn’s River Falls many terraced steps is both strenuous and very slippery. Water shoes are available for purchase at guests expenses during the tour. Lockers available at additional cost, rental is at the guests own risk. Guests wishing to climb Dunn’s River Falls must be at least 92 cm/3 ft. in height. Guests will not be permitted to jump from the falls.

The falls have two entry / exit points: one at the bottom of the falls and another midway, at the whirlpool area, prior to reaching the top. If at one point, guests don’t want to continue climbing the falls, depending on where the climbing started, they may be able to exit earlier and wait for the rest of the group. There may be a queue to climb the falls. As a special benefit for MSC Cruises guests, a “Dolphin Dollars” voucher offering a $10.00 USD discount on the purchase of photo packages is available at Dolphin Cove Caribbean destinations. The voucher has no monetary value if not used.

Restrictions apply: valid only for single or couple (2 people) photo packages and non-cumulative. The discount applies to photo packages only (not for 1 single photo) and cannot be combined with other promotions. Guests must present their Cruise Card or bracelet that identifies them as MSC guests in order to redeem this offer

DOLPHIN ENCOUNTER and DUNN’S RIVER FALLS

Excursion Details

Combine outdoor adventure and an animal encounter at two popular attractions on this excursion, lasting around six and a half hours. Depart from the port on a bus journey of around one hour along the coast to Dunn’s River Falls in the north of the island. Your guide will point out notable sights during the journey.

Once arrived, spend around 85 minutes at Dunn’s River Falls, a natural formation stretching over 180 metres and measuring over 55 metres high. The falls flow into the Caribbean Sea and have featured in various famous films over the years, including Cocktail with Tom Cruise in 1988 and the James Bond film Dr No in 1962. Choose between climbing to the top of the falls, with opportunities to splash around in the natural pools as you ascend, or watching the action from the sidelines.

Afterwards, there’s a short drive to Dolphin Cove, a marine venue where you’ll spend approximately three hours. After a short briefing from staff, you’ll get to meet and interact with a dolphin – you’ll be situated on a submerged platform for convenience. You’ll also be able to enjoy some free time, so you can fully explore the venue and admire the dolphins as they glide through the waters. A complimentary lunch will also be served during your time at Dolphin Cove. The drive back to the port takes around one hour.

Important Information: For the dolphin encounter program, guests under 18 years old must be accompanied by a paying adult or legal guardian. A waiver form must be signed by a legal adult guardian for guests who are under the age of 18. Neither cameras nor video equipment will be permitted in the dolphin enclosure. Photos of your dolphin experience will be available for sale. There are ramps and comfortable seating areas at both Dolphin Cove and Dunn’s River Falls for guests who prefer to sit and watch climbers ascend the falls.

Guests under 5 months (20 weeks) pregnant may participate on this tour, remaining on the deep-waist platform under their own consent and responsibility, accompanied by a paying adult, and must sign the liability waiver. It is recommended that jewellery and other valuables be left on board the ship. This tour may be run in reverse order. For the falls, guests are recommended to bring a towel as well as to wear high-factor sunscreen and swimwear. Slip-proof or water shoes should be worn since climbing the falls’many terraced steps is both strenuous and very slippery.

Water shoes are available for purchase at guests expenses during the tour. Lockers available at additional cost, rental is at the guests own risk. Guests wishing to climb the falls must be at least 92 cm/3 ft. in height. Guests will not be permitted to jump from the falls. Dunn’s River Falls is not recommended for pregnant women or anyone with heart, neck, back, walking or knee problems. The falls have two entry / exit points: one at the bottom of the falls and another midway, at the whirlpool area, prior to reaching the top. If at one point, guests don’t want to continue climbing the falls, depending on where the climbing started, they may be able to exit earlier and wait for the rest of the group.

There may be a queue to climb the falls. As a special benefit for MSC Cruises guests, a “Dolphin Dollars” voucher offering a $10.00 USD discount on the purchase of photo packages is available at Dolphin Cove Caribbean destinations. The voucher has no monetary value if not used. Restrictions apply: valid only for single or couple (2 people) photo packages and non-cumulative. The discount applies to photo packages only (not for 1 single photo) and cannot be combined with other promotions. Guests must present their Cruise Card or bracelet that identifies them as MSC guests in order to redeem this offer

CANOPY ADVENTURE

Experience Jamaica from new heights on this zip-lining excursion lasting approximately four hours. You’ll zoom through the air above orange groves, guango trees and the Martha Brae River.

This approximately four-hour excursion offers sky-high views and plenty of excitement for thrill-seekers, thanks to a zip-line session. Following a bus ride from the port of around 30 minutes, you’ll arrive at Good Hope Estate, a former sugar plantation dating back to the 1770s and covering around 2,000 acres. Once arrived, there’s a short introduction and safety briefing, plus the chance to rent a locker to store any belongings.

Your adrenaline-filled adventure of around one hour then begins. Led by an experienced guide, you’ll glide along a series of zip-lines through forest canopies, while taking in sweeping views of the citrus trees and wild flora below, as well as the Martha Brae River.

Afterwards, there’s approximately one hour and 50 minutes of free time, which could be used to purchase lunch and drinks at Good Hope Estate’s restaurant, browse the gift shop, or splash around in the Adventure Falls pool area, complete with a water slide, swimming pools and even a waterfall.

A drive of around 30 minutes back to the port then concludes the excursion.

Important Information: Please note: guests must be at least 6 years of age and weigh no more than 265 lbs. to participate. You are required to wear closed shoes (e.g. tennis shoes or sneakers) and recommended to bring some cash/credit card/s for optional purchases. This tour is not available for pregnant women or guests with mobility or health problems. Helmets will be provided and required to be worn. Lockers are available onsite for an additional cost

DUNN’S RIVER FALLS EXPRESS

Spend time exploring the famous Dunn’s River Falls during this approximately five-hour excursion. Enjoy the scenes from a viewing deck or follow your guide on a climb to the top.

This approximately five-hour excursion is ideal for lovers of the outdoors. Following a sightseeing drive from the port through the Jamaican countryside, lasting around 90 minutes, you’ll arrive at Dunn’s River Falls.

Here, you’ll have approximately two hours and 15 minutes to enjoy the 55-metre-high, 182-metre-long waterfalls and the surrounding tropical rainforest. If you’ve just come along for the scenery, rather than to scale the falls, head to the viewing terrace, where you can relax and take photos.

If you’re keen for more of an adventure and want to see the falls up-close, follow your guide on a hike to the top, stopping in at some of the pools along the way. At one of the stops, you’ll be able to experience the soothing effects of the water cascading on your back.

Finally, a transfer drive lasting around one hour and 15 minutes returns to the port.

Important Information: Please note: Guests are recommended to bring a towel as well as to wear high-factor sunscreen and swimwear. Slip-proof or water shoes should be worn since climbing the falls’many terraced steps is both strenuous and very slippery. Water shoes are available for purchase at guests expenses during the tour. Lockers available at additional cost, rental is at the guests own risk. Guests wishing to climb the falls must be at least 92 cm/3 ft. in height. Guests will not be permitted to jump from the falls. Dunn’s River Falls is not available for pregnant women or anyone with heart, neck, back, walking or knee problems.

The falls have two entry / exit points: one at the bottom of the falls and another midway, at the whirlpool area, prior to reaching the top. If at one point, guests don’t want to continue climbing the falls, depending on where the climbing started, they may be able to exit earlier and wait for the rest of the group. There may be a queue to climb the falls. The transfer to and from Dunn’s River Falls takes approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes each way.

SWAMP SAFARI VILLAGE

Spend some time with crocodiles and other creatures during this approximately two-hour excursion to Jamaica’s Swamp Safari Village. The itinerary includes a guided tour from a ‘crocodile wrangler’and a drink at the on-site bar.

Founded as a crocodile sanctuary in 1969, Jamaica’s Swamp Safari Village has evolved into a visitable site that’s home to everything from reptiles to giant rodents. Meet its crocs and other animals during this approximately two-hour excursion.

Your outing begins with a bus ride of around 15 minutes, travelling through the Georgian town of Falmouth. Once you arrive at the sanctuary, your guided swamp safari, lasting approximately 90 minutes, will begin. Led by a guide, you’ll make your way through natural mangrove habitat on a site spanning 50 acres, and you’ll meet all ages of crocodile, as well as other fantastic creatures, which may include a Jamaican yellow snake, Jamaican coneys, collared peccaries and spotted pacas.

The tour ends with a visit to Kananga House (made famous from its appearance in the 1973 James Bond movie, Live and Let Die) and a complimentary tropical drink. Afterwards, return to the port on an approximately 15-minute bus ride.

Important Information: Please note: as the open-air safari involves longer periods of walking and standing in the heat, guests are recommended to wear a hat and sunglasses as well as bring/use sunscreen.