Category: Ocho Rios (Jamaica)

DOLPHIN ENCOUNTER & DUNN’S RIVER FALLS

Excursion details

Discover Dunn’s River Falls, the cascades made famous by their appearance in the first James Bond film, Dr. No, followed by a visit to Dolphin Cove, where you’ll interact with dolphins and enjoy some leisure time during an approximately five-hour trip.

It’s a short drive to Dunn’s River Falls to start, where you’ll have around 90 minutes to explore the site with the help of your guide. A popular option is to climb the falls through the cool water as it cascades over limestone terraces into the Caribbean Sea. For those who don’t want to get wet, there’s an alternative area alongside the falls where you can simply enjoy the views.

The second stop of the tour, Dolphin Cove, is a brief drive from the falls. You’ll have around three hours to spend at this marine attraction, beginning with a short orientation introduction. Then you’ll meet the dolphins while on a submerged platform, where you’ll be able to observe and learn more about them.

In addition to the dolphin experience, you’ll also be able to enjoy some free time at the park. This could be spent viewing other creatures, such as stingrays, or strolling and exploring the grounds.

There’s also a miniature replica of Port Royal, a historical town in southeastern Jamaica that was a favourite haunt of pirates and smugglers. Much of it was destroyed in an earthquake in 1692, so this replica offers a glimpse back into the past.

Finally, an approximately 15-minute drive back to the port concludes the excursion.

Important Information: Guests will be required to wash their hands before and after the animal interaction.

We recommend comfortable clothing, comfortable shoes, swim wear, change of clothes, towels, and sunscreen.  Lockers are available for rent at both Dunn’s River Falls and Dolphin Cove. Lockers rental is at the guests own risk. Jewellery and other valuables should be left on board the ship. Guests 55 inches tall and under must be accompanied by a paying adult or legal guardian. Guests with a height greater than 56 inches can participate without any accompaniment. Guests will be required to sign a waiver which may only be available in English.

Guests under the age of 18 years must have an adult to sign the waiver form. 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 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 SWIM and DUNN’S RIVER FALLS

Enjoy a short drive-in air-conditioned comfort to the world-famous Dunn’s River Falls where you will spend approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes climbing 600 feet of cool refreshing water as it cascades over natural limestone terraces. Guides are provided to assist you when ascending the rushing waters as it plunges directly into the pristine Caribbean Sea. After this invigorating experience you are transported to Dolphin Cove and spend approximately 3 hours. You will participate in a brief orientation and then enter the world of nature’s most fascinating creatures: The Dolphins. Get to know the animals as you interact with them in deep water. Experience the thrill of “riding” the dolphin belly to belly. Dance, sing, play and even enjoy a smile or a kiss. Visit “Little Port Royal” a replica of Jamaica’s most famous pirate “Haunt” and witness pirates roaming through town. Browse through the largest gift shops of any attraction in Jamaica, stocked with the widest range of dolphin souvenirs. Listen to the rhythms of the Caribbean music.

Please note: Guests will be required to wash their hands before and after the animal interaction. We recommend comfortable clothing, comfortable shoes, swim wear, change of clothes, towels, and sunscreen. Lockers are available for rent at both Dunn’s River Falls and Dolphin Cove. Lockers rental is at the guests own risk. Jewellery and other valuables should be left on board the ship. Guests will be required to sign a waiver which may only be available in English. Guests under the age of 18 years must have an adult to sign the waiver form. 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. For the dolphin interaction program, guests must be at least 48 inches to participate on the dolphin swim portion of this tour. Guests 55 inches tall and under must be accompanied by a paying adult or legal guardian. Guests with a height greater than 56 inches can participate without any accompaniment. Children under 18 years of age must be accompanied by a paying adult throughout the tour and under their constant supervision at all times; in such an event, the paying adult will also be required to sign a waiver prior to departure.

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 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. The maximum age to participate is 70 years old

OCHO RIOS & DUNN’S RIVER FALLS

Experience the famous Dunn’s River Falls up-close on this excursion of approximately five and a half hours. You’ll be able to climb the falls if you’re feeling active or simply watch the action from the sidelines. Afterwards, enjoy a Jamaican lunch and potentially some shopping time.
Excursion details

The terraced waterfall near Ocho Rios known as Dunn’s River Falls is a local landmark around the area, and this approximately five-and-a-half-hour excursion is a chance to view and explore its cascades.

After boarding your bus and departing from the pier, there’s a short scenic drive that transports you to Dunn’s River Falls on the north coast of Jamaica. This 183-metre-long waterfall empties into the Caribbean Sea and even featured in the first James Bond film, Dr. No.

Once arrived, you’ll have approximately two hours and 15 minutes at the site. There’s the opportunity to take a guided climb of the falls, which includes a brief pause at a spot where you can move directly into the cascading water, creating a soothing effect on tired muscles. Alternatively, you can simply watch others tackle the climb from a lookout spot and enjoy the view.

For history buffs, there’s a plaque installed by the Jamaican Historical Society, which marks the site of the 1657 battle of Las Chorreras (which roughly translates as “the waterfalls “).

After your time at Dunn’s River Falls, an approximately 15-minute transfer takes you to a restaurant by the sea. Here, you’ll be able to enjoy an approximately one-hour lunch featuring traditional Jamaican dishes. Following lunch, you’ll depart for the drive back to the port, lasting around one hour, which includes an optional shopping stop, time permitting.

Important Information: guests are recommended to wear swimwear under comfortable clothing, high-factor sunscreen and to bring a towel plus a change of clothing if swimwear is not worn at the waterfall.

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 during the tour at guests expenses. 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.  Please advise of any food allergies. Menu subject to change

BOBSLED JAMAICA and FALLS WITH RAGGA RIDE

This excursion of approximately four and a half hours takes in a chairlift and other exciting rides at the Mystic Mountain adventure park – including the Raggamuffin and Bobsled – as well as a famous waterfall. You’ll begin at Mystic Mountain, with time to explore its rides and attractions, before scaling Dunn’s River Falls.

Excursion details

From gliding through the air on fairground rides to ascending a natural wonder, there’s plenty of excitement on this excursion, lasting around four and a half hours.

The fun stars with a short transfer to Mystic Mountain, an adventure park located in a tropical rainforest. After a brief orientation talk, it’s on to the first ride of the day – Sky Explorer. Lasting around 15 minutes, this chairlift takes you to heights of up to 210 metres (700 feet), offering views of Ocho Rios and its coastline.

Next, you will tackle the Bobsled, inspired by Jamaica’s celebrated Olympic bobsled team. Once the ride has finished snaking downhill for 1,000 metres (3,280 feet), the thrills continue with the Raggamuffin. This inverted ride consists of the track running above your head and your feet dangle down in the air, featuring 14 high-speed turns.

Next, the Sky Explorer chairlift returns you to the park entrance on a journey of around 15 minutes, before a quick transfer to Dunn’s River Falls. This local landmark extends across more than 180 metres and is one of the few falls that drop directly into the Caribbean Sea. Over the course of approximately two hours and five minutes, a guide will lead you up past the cascades, where you’ll be rewarded with impressive views.

Once you’ve descended the falls, a transfer of around 15 minutes returns to the port, concluding the excursion.

Important Information: Guests will be required to sign a waiver which may only be available in English. Wear sturdy rubber-soled shoes or bring a pair with you if you choose to climb Dunn’s River Falls. Please be advised that the Falls can be very slippery in places. Jumping from the falls is not permitted. Bring a swimsuit and towel; lockers are available at the falls and Mystic Mountain for a nominal fee.

Children must be at least 54 ” in height to ride the bobsled without being accompanied by a paying adult. Guests must be at least 46 ” tall to participate on the Ragga Ride. Guests wishing to climb the falls must be at least 92 cm/3 ft. in height. The maximum weight restriction to participate on the bobsled is of 163 kg / 360 lbs. The order of the tour may be reversed. This tour is considered unsuitable for pregnant women and guests with pre-existing back, neck, or knee problems

DUNN’S RIVER FALLS EXPRESS

Excursion details

Climb the 183-meter-long terraced waterfalls near Ocho Rios in this excursion, lasting around three hours. This much-loved site is an essential stop when visiting the region, and for those who prefer a more relaxed visit, there’s the option to watch others climb while you enjoy the scenery.

The waterfalls that featured in Dr. No (the first film in the James Bond franchise) make for a memorable visit – even more so when you ascend them during this excursion of around three hours.

An approximately 15-minute drive begins the trip to the falls, which cascade over limestone rock and are fed by spring water that’s high in calcium carbonate. Once arrived, you’ll have approximately two hours and 15 minutes to explore and enjoy the site.

Take advantage of the chance to climb the falls as part of a group and led by a guide, with the opportunity to stand under the soothing waters and let the flow massage tired muscles. Alternatively, you can simply enjoy viewing the falls from the nearby terrace or decking, perhaps also with a stroll in the surrounding forest to increase the scenic views.

If time permits, there’ll be the opportunity for some optional shopping before a short drive returns you to the port.

Important Information: Guests are recommended to bring a towel as well as to wear high-factor sunscreen, swimwear and non-skid water shoes, since climbing the many steps of the falls is both strenuous and slippery. Pregnant women are not permitted to participate on this tour. Water shoes are available for hire at the waterfall. 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

FLAVOURS OF JAMAICA

Excursion details

Discover Jamaica’s cuisine hands-on during this culinary-focused excursion, lasting approximately four hours. Under the guidance of a chef, you’ll be cooking (and then eating) a range of popular Jamaican dishes in a historic setting.

Begin with a bus ride of about 15 minutes to the Yaaman Adventure Park, set on Prospect Estate. On arrival you’ll climb aboard a jitney (a tractor-drawn, open-sided carriage) for a drive of about 25 minutes through the grounds to the 18th-century Great House. You’ll meet your host underneath a mahogany tree that was planted by Winston Churchill when he visited during the 1950s, before a short walk through ornamental gardens.

Then it’s time to head to the veranda, roll up your sleeves and start cooking. Over approximately two hours, a Jamaican chef will teach you how to prepare a range of dishes. These include coconut rundown (a traditional Jamaican sauce), callaloo (a popular side dish of flavoured and steamed leafy greens), Jamaican festival dumplings (you’ll even be taught how to knead the dough) and jerk chicken. Your two-hour lesson also includes time for lunch, during which you’ll get to sample your freshly cooked creations.

Afterwards, there’s a drive of 15 minutes or so back to Yaaman Adventure Park’s information centre, where you’ll have approximately 45 minutes of free time to explore the venue and nearby grounds a little more. A transfer of about 15 minutes then returns to the port.

Important Information: guests must be at least 10 years of age to take part. Guests are further recommended to wear comfortable clothing and shoes. Guests are advised to leave jewellery and other valuables on board the ship. Beverages are available at additional cost not covered by the price of the tour

DISCOVER GREEN GROTTO CAVES

Excursion details

Get acquainted with the subterranean wonder known as the Green Grotto Caves on this excursion, lasting approximately four hours. Begin with a scenic sightseeing drive of around 90 minutes that passes through Ocho Rios before journeying out into the countryside.

Once arrived at the Green Grotto Caves you’ll have around 90 minutes to explore this unique attraction and learn more about its history. The caves are thought to have acted as a refuge for runaway slaves and for smugglers across the years. It’s also claimed that the caves were used to safely store barrels of rum during World War Two.

Also look out for numerous stalagmites and stalactites spread around the caves, as well as an underground lake, all presenting plenty of photo opportunities. As you return towards the surface, you’ll also pass a pool known as the ‘wishing well’, where people throw coins to bring good luck.

After your cave exploration ends and after the approximately hour-long drive back to Ocho Rios, you’ll be taken for a short shopping stop – time permitting. A short drive takes you back over to the port and your awaiting ship.

Important Information: this tour is not available for guests with mobility problems

BAMBOO BEACH CLUB WITH LUNCH

Excursion details

Set between Falmouth and St Ann’s Bay on the northern coast of Jamaica, Bamboo Beach Club is an ideal location for treating yourself to some well-deserved relaxation and a little indulgence, as you’ll discover on this excursion of around five hours.

A drive of 45 minutes or so transports you directly to the beach club, where you’ll then have approximately two hours and 45 minutes of free time to make the most of the setting – an easy task when there’s so much on offer. Relax on a chair and top up your tan or cool down in the shade if you prefer – or cool down even further by going for a swim in the Caribbean waters. There’ll be reggae music to soundtrack your day, too.

However you choose to spend your leisure time at the club, you’ll be able to enjoy lunch, featuring typical Jamaican dishes and favorites (which may include crispy plantain, Jamaican festival dumplings and bread pudding), two champagne cocktails and four specialty cocktails.

Once your free time comes to an end, there’ll be an opportunity for shopping – time permitting – which consists of an approximately 45-minute drive to a shopping venue followed by around 30 minutes of shopping time, before a drive back to the port, lasting 15 minutes or so.

Important Information: beachside massages and snorkel gear hire are available at extra cost.

Guests are recommended to bring a beach towel, high-factor sunscreen, a camera, and some cash or a credit card to cover additional purchases. Guests are also recommended to wear swimwear under comfortable clothing. Guests must be at least 18 years of age to consume alcohol. Drinks included in tour price are as follows: Champagne Cocktails – 2 servings – Choices of Amazing River & Island Sunshine. Specialty Cocktails – 4 servings – Choices of Guava Rum Punch, Fern Gully (rum), Sky Blue (vodka) & Green Grotto (rum). Non-Alcoholic – 3 servings – Choices of Lemonade, Mango Tango, Pepsi & Ting. Additional drinks are available at the guests expenses.

The food menu on this tour consists of jerk chicken spring rolls with mango salsa, fish tartar served on plantain chips, surf & turf – herb crusted fish with fruit salsa, jerk chicken, festival, vegetable polenta, ripe plantains, raisin coleslaw, and rum raisin bread pudding with vanilla ice cream. The food and drinks included on the tour are subject to change

SCENIC OCHO RIOS, KONOKO FALLS & BEACH BREAK

Excursion details

Get back to nature on this excursion of approximately five hours, which lets you explore some of Jamaica’s natural treasures, followed by time at the beach.

The excursion starts with a short transfer to Konoko Falls, where you’ll enjoy a guided tour lasting around 50 minutes. As you wander and admire the colourful flora of this botanical garden and waterfall, your guide will tell you about the site’s endemic Jamaican plant life.

You’ll also visit the Yassai viewpoint, situated at the top of Konoko Falls and providing views across Ocho Rios and the waterfall itself – make sure to have your camera handy to capture the scene. Your time at Konko Falls ends with a complimentary and refreshing fruit punch at the venue’s bar and restaurant – a great way to cool down after your walk.

Next, you’ll be taken on a sightseeing drive through central Ocho Rios, lasting around 50 minutes, before continuing to the nearby town of Discovery Bay. Your destination is Puerto Seco Beach, a beach club stretching out over 10 acres where you’ll be able to enjoy approximately two hours and 10 minutes of free time, which includes time for a complimentary buffet lunch. You can also use your free time to wander the white sands, relax on the beach, take a swim in the Caribbean Sea or the pool, or enjoy the in-house entertainment.

After the free time comes to an end, a transfer of approximately 45 minutes returns to the port, concluding the excursion.

Important Information: Guests must be at least 4 years old to participate. Should wear comfortable clothing, swimwear, water shoes or sneakers, bring towels, high SPF sunscreen and sunglasses. Water activities available at an additional cost. Guests do not climb any falls on this tour. Please advise of any food allergies. Menu subject to change. Guests will have to walk approximately 350 meters from the parking lot to reach the viewpoint for Konoko Falls.

Guests will have a view overlooking the top of Konoko Falls rather than a direct, front facing view. Guests may be required to walk on uneven terrain

DOLPHIN ENCOUNTER

Come face-to-face with dolphins during this approximately two-hour excursion. While at Dolphin Cove, guests will be able to observe and interact with these marine mammals while on a platform submerged in the pool.

Excursion details

If you’ve always wanted to spend time with dolphins and learn more about them, this approximately two-hour excursion lets you live out those dreams. It takes place at Dolphin Cove in Ocho Rios, on the north of Jamaica. Located inside a natural park and surrounded by tropical rainforest, it’s the perfect destination for fans of dolphins and other underwater animals.

Begin by boarding your bus at the port and taking a short ride to Dolphin Cove. After a brief welcome and orientation talk, it’s time to enter the pool for your dolphin encounter, lasting around 30 minutes. While standing on a submerged platform, guests are given the chance to interact with these fascinating creatures, guided by a trainer.

Once out and dry, take a quick look in the gift shop for souvenirs or to purchase photos of your dolphin interaction. A 15-minute transfer drive then returns to the ship.

Important Information: Guests will be required to wash their hands before and after the animal interaction. We recommend comfortable clothing, comfortable shoes, swim wear, change of clothes, towels, and sunscreen. Lockers are available for rent at Dolphin Cove.

Guests under 18 years old must be accompanied by a paying adult or legal guardian. Guests will be required to sign a waiver which may only be available in English. Guests under the age of 18 years must have an adult to sign the waiver form. Guests who are more than 5 months pregnant, or suffer from pre-existing neck, back, heart, or respiratory problems will not be able to participate on this tour. Jewellery and other valuables should be left on board the ship. 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.