Cruise Port Excursions

Thoughts about Cruise Port Excursions

Taking a cruise isn’t just about what you do on the boat. Half of the enjoyment of a cruise trip is what you are able to do off the boat at various ports of call. There are a few important things you should think about when visiting places off the safety and comfort of the ship.

Ask the cruise staff what the tipping norm…

is the ports you will be visiting. In some areas, it is standard practice to include a gratuity in the bill for service to be split among staff; in others, proper etiquette demands each server be tipped individually. If your excursion includes a guided tour bus ride, it is customary to tip the driver and the tour guide a couple of dollars each at the close of the tour.

Remember that crowded ports of call are often a paradise for pickpockets as well. Never leave any valuable unattended and never, ever carry a wallet in your back pocket. And always keep your identification on your person at all times in case of an emergency.

Before leaving the ship, make sure you are aware…

of the proper reboarding time, and don’t forget to bring a watch. Failure to reboard the ship is a costly mistake – you will be responsible for your own transportation to the next port of call. You will also have to endure undue stress and wasted time figuring out exactly how you are going to get back on the boat.

Be sure to not be too obviously touristy when wandering about your off-ship destinations. Chances are you won’t completely blend in with the locals, but you also don’t want to look completely lost and clueless. This will just make you a magnet for swindlers and criminals. Be prepared for your time off the boat by knowing where you are going and how to get from one location to another.

Don’t get too bold and wander too far off the beaten path. Many ports of call have areas that are specifically designed for tourists to enjoy and be safe. Often not too far away from these areas are places that can quickly get you lost or in trouble. If you want to go visit something that isn’t on the typical itinerary, see if you can find a trust worthy local guide to accompany you. You are much less likely to become a target if you have a local by your side.