Shore Excursions

Extreme Excursions

Extreme Excursions

Adventure awaits with these thrilling Caribbean experiences.

By Craig Zabransky

During every cruise, passengers have the opportunity to take a step outside their comfort zone, try something new and exciting, and, ultimately, choose adventure. The break from our regular routine allows us to become more courageous in our decisions, and the Caribbean is the perfect place to indulge that sense of adventure. No matter the magnitude of what gets your heart pumping, the Caribbean has adventure-seekers covered on all levels.

Adrenaline-Packed Excursions
Several ports offer zip-line excursions with the best options combining speed, scenery, and safety. One of the most popular ports for zip-lining is Roatan, Honduras, where elevated platforms allow you to zip across jungles of Gumbalimba Park before the final stop at the pristine waters of Tabyana Beach. The number of zip-lines, mix of distance and speed, and amazing scenery that might include wildlife sightings make this a must do for any adrenaline seeker.

Another zip-line option to consider is at Labadee, Haiti (the private island port visited by Royal Caribbean International, Celebrity Cruises, and Azamara Club Cruises). The Dragon’s Breath zip-line contains a unique view from the top, potential speeds of up to 50 mph, and beautiful views of the bay and cruise ships in port as you zip down the 2,600-foot long flight line.

If you don’t want to take to the air but still want speed, stay on the water in a 12-passenger 700hp jet boat ride in Cozumel. Strap in and buckle up for speeds of 45 mph with full 360-degree turns and full stops that create a nose-dive splash guaranteed to make get everyone soaked. Passengers have been known to take two turns.

Group Activities
Cruise travel is great for groups, and although you’ll often dine together, many groups often dissolve in a port as each head out to their own discoveries. But some adventurous activities are great ways to further strengthen the bond between family and friends or even provide some team building.

In Puerto Limon, Costa Rica, for example, you can pile groups of six in a raft and grab your oars for an exhilarating whitewater-rafting experience that the country is famous for. On a dam-controlled river, guides will instruct on how to navigate class III rapids and also allow time to relax and swim in the calmer waters amid the scenic tropical landscape teeming with wildlife.

For smaller groups or romantic getaways for two, consider exploring the waterfalls and horseback-riding in Jamaica. At the famous Dunn’s River Falls, you’ll experience 600 feet of cascading waterfalls and then, as you head back down to the sea, saddle up for a horseback ride and swim. The guides may tell you about Jamaican history or unique facts about the flora and fauna found on the island nation, but the magic will be the bareback horseback riding through chest-high waters.

Underwater Explorations
Between the Caribbean’s sunny weather and crystal-clear waters, it makes sense that so many shore excursions take you both on and in the water to appreciate both.

Snorkeling may be the most popular excursion throughout the entire Caribbean, but….

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Photo: Royal Caribbean International


 

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