How to Find the Right Cruise Ship Shore Excursions for You
When your ship docks at a new destination, cruise ship shore excursions are your ticket to making the most of each port. In fact, a 2024 survey found that 68% of cruisers book at least one shore excursion during their voyage, underscoring just how popular these off-ship adventures are. From exclusive private tours to group experiences, the right excursion can turn a stop into a once-in-a-lifetime memory.
The challenge? With so many options, ranging from cultural, scenic, active and culinary, it can be tricky to find the perfect match for your travel style. That’s where working with an expert travel advisor makes all the difference, helping you narrow choices to the activities that fit your interests, pace and budget.
What to Know About Excursions on a Cruise
Many travelers new to cruising wonder what is an excursion on a cruise and why they’re worth planning in advance. Simply put, a shore excursion is an organized activity or tour offered at a port of call, designed to help you explore and experience the destination beyond the ship.
These excursions vary widely, from guided city tours to snorkeling adventures. They offer a chance to discover local culture, nature and cuisine in a convenient, safe way. Planning your excursions ahead ensures you don’t miss out on popular activities (especially during peak travel seasons).
Matching Excursion Sizes to Your Travel Style
The size of your tour can shape the entire experience! Choosing the right group size ensures your day ashore matches your preferences for intimacy, pace and personalization.
- Private: Perfect for families, friends or small groups who want a fully customizable itinerary. For groups of four or more, private shore excursions can sometimes cost less than large cruise line tours, while giving you complete flexibility.
- Small Group: Ideal for 2-20 travelers. These tours offer a more personal touch than large cruise groups, often allowing more time for questions and interaction with your guide.
- Standard: Ranging from 20-50 guests, these tours are similar to cruise line offerings but still maintain a high standard of quality and service.
Your Travel Advisor can recommend the right size based on whether you value privacy, camaraderie or a blend of both!
Exploring the Types of Excursions
When browsing cruise ship shore excursions, you’ll find a wide range of experiences:
- Cultural: Dive into local customs, heritage and history.
- Scenic: Take in breathtaking natural wonders, from mountain peaks to turquoise lagoons.
- Active: Go hiking, zip-lining or kayaking. This type of excursion is ideal for travelers seeking adventure.
- Water/Beach: Snorkel vibrant reefs, relax on secluded shores or try water sports.
- Culinary: Sample local delicacies and learn traditional cooking techniques.
Whether you’re looking for things to do on a honeymoon or a family-friendly day ashore, there’s an excursion style for every occasion.
Why Work With a Travel Advisor?
An experienced travel advisor can save you hours of research by matching you with the most fitting shore excursions for cruises. They’ll consider your group size, preferred activity level and even seasonal factors that can influence your experience. Plus, they can help coordinate multiple stops! So, if you’re part of travel groups for solo travelers or planning a multi-generational trip, your excursions are tailored to everyone’s interests.
Make the Most of Every Port
From the culture-rich streets of Lisbon to the crystal waters of the Caribbean, your time ashore is precious. Choosing the right excursions ensures each port visit is as memorable as the cruise itself.
With expert guidance, you’ll discover cruise ship shore excursions that align with your travel goals; whether that’s tasting fresh seafood on a seaside patio, hiking through a national park or uncovering a city’s hidden gems.
Start planning your perfect day ashore! Talk to a Dream Vacations Travel Advisor to explore the full range of experiences available. Visit the Dream Vacations website or call 800-278-4736 to get started!
