Shore Excursions-A Big Part of Cruising

By: Mike Franks, Owner-Operator, Cruise Planners-Orange Park, FL

Shore Excursions are a big part of what ocean cruising is all about. Although many guests are perfectly happy staying onboard and enjoying all the ship has to offer, excursions give you a chance to see a destination for the first time and enjoy other fun activities on land.

The following is only a snippet of what’s available in two of the most popular cruise regions and may even cause you to give a cruise vacation another look.

Caribbean Islands

The Caribbean is all about fun in the sun, and the cruise excursions available make enjoying the warm sunshine top priority.

Day on the beach: Beautiful white sand beaches, a clear blue ocean and plenty of sunshine gives a day at the beach a brand-new meaning. Most of the cruise lines have their own private islands so you won’t have to worry about crowds. You will also find plenty of food and beverages to make your day totally relaxing. Swimming with dolphins, turtles or manatees is a great offshore adventure.

Scuba Diving: Most cruise lines offer equipment for rent, and many provide lessons leading to a certification in scuba diving. Whatever your experience level, you can enjoy the ocean depths in one of the most scenic locations on earth.

Snorkeling: If you don’t want to take on scuba diving, you may enjoy the ocean from the surface too! The Caribbean islands offer some great opportunities for enjoying the clear blue water, the coral reefs and sea life that is so abundant there.

Island Tour: Guided tours of each island in the Caribbean offers unique perspectives on the history, people, and commerce of the island. Since most of the economy of the island is tourist driven, they make sure to create an appealing environment. Usually led by natives of the island, a tour group offers the most informed descriptions of what you will see.  Check out the tour itinerary to see if it offers what you are interested in.

However, many people prefer to explore on their own by just walking around the city or renting a car or cycle to explore. Other options may include an ATV or jeep for off-road exploration. If you choose one of the “on your own” alternatives, be cautious of where you go, being careful not to stray too far off the beaten path. Also, keep an eye on the clock to make sure you have plenty of time to return to the ship. They won’t wait for you!

If you want to stay on the water, consider an island tour from the sea. Another option is a sailboat or catamaran excursion.

Para-sailing is another popular pastime for the more adventurous. Seeing the Caribbean from high up in the sky is breathtaking for the scenery and adrenalin rush.

Alaska

Most of the main tourist attractions in Alaska can be accessed via cruise excursions or simply by extending your stay with a pre or post-cruise adventure. Here are a few of the most popular attractions found in Alaska.

The Mendenhall Glacier is a magnificent geologic phenomenon about 1.5 miles wide and hundreds of feet thick, which is fed by the 1,500-square mile Juneau Icefield. This meandering river of compressed ice ranks as the largest, most rugged glaciers accessible by road.

Located near downtown Juneau, you will also experience the colorful history of Juneau's gold rush era. Alaska's Capital City is always bustling with activity, even though it is surrounded by rainforest wilderness and rugged terrain.

You will also want to take the time to explore nature trails, see spectacular Alaskan wildlife, and capture breathtaking photos before returning to the ship's gangway. Unlike most wilderness areas in the country, you don't have to be a hiker to see this wildlife and get a close look at these amazing creatures roaming free in their natural habitat.

Denali National Park - Mt. Denali is North America's highest peak, which ascends to 20,310 feet and is one of the most majestic, awe-inspiring sights in Alaska.

It’s not just the mountain that makes it a special place. The park is also home to 37 species of mammals, ranging from lynx, marmots, and arctic ground squirrels, to foxes and snowshoe hares. More than 130 different bird species have been spotted here, including the impressive golden eagle. Spotting five animals, in particular, comprise the Denali Slam, which means you were lucky enough to see moose, caribou, wolf, Dall sheep, and the brown grizzly bear.  Denali is also home to black bears that inhabit the forested areas of the park, while grizzly bears mainly live on the open tundra.

Whale Watching and Sea Life No vacation to the Arctic coast would be complete without taking the time to view and photograph the spectacular sea life found in the nutrient-rich waters of Alaska. This is a mecca of marine life from our beloved whales to the prized wild salmon that thrive in abundance throughout these waters.

Whale watching trips feature ray, orca (killer) humpback and beluga whales. Some of the more intimate cruise lines offer cruises to Alaska with an emphasis placed on whale watching. Most of these tours operate within the Inside Passage. Southeast Alaska Yacht Charters that normally have less than 100 passengers per voyage are based out of Seattle, and Vancouver B.C.

No matter your cruise destination, shore excursions are an opportunity to see the world and experience adventures you don’t get at home!

What is your dream vacation destination? Chances are there is a cruise ship going that way!

Visit my website www.landorseatravel.com or call me 1-844-TRAVEL and discover the allure of cruising!

Mike Franks is an owner/operator of Cruise Planners in Orange Park, FL. Cruise Planners specializes in ocean and river cruises, land tours and resort vacations.