Is it ok to buy an excursion on arrival at some official touristic point?

Hello boys and girls! It is my very first cruise, not sure if it is safe to go excursions from local providers... anyone had experience with this? I am going 7 nights Western Caribbean cruise with Royal Caribbean. Also, appreciate if you advice some particular tourist agencies and mentions prices (is there any price difference between Royal Caribbean and local excursions providers?) Thx 🙏

Tags: Cozumel Caribbean - Western Jamaica Falmouth Haiti GrandCayman

8 Answers

Thank you, xflyer! “Sharon at sea” seems as great vlog, just got few tips from there 👌

As long as you check them out before you travel. I think “Sharon At Sea” has some info on who to use. Looking forward to meeting you. Maryellen

Thanks a lot, nlcdn! Checking Viator options ..

Research wisely. Booking with the cruise line has guarantees. Booking an independent excursion through a reputable firm has its benefits as well. Your choice.

Thanks a lot, OldGreyWolf and AuntPinkie, really appreciate your advice! I even couldn’t imagine such cases..

Some of the Islands you are visiting have a reputation of things going wrong for passengers you wander too far. For your first cruise, I would book with the cruise line (we did) to avoid any additional stress about missing the ship. OldGreyWolf is right and has sound advice.

I would not recommend hooking up with local tour companies that you know nothing about. You could get lucky and hit a good one or you could get very unlucky. Stick to a reputable company. Go with either the ones offered by the cruise line or go on line to a number of reputable companies such as Viator. I would also recommend booking in advance from home prior to your cruise. Cruising is great and having the right excursion in an unknown island can make a great difference. Hope you enjoy the cruise.

Also keep in mind that excursions booked through the cruise line guarantee that you will not be left behind. Booking with an unknown local can get you back to port late which could leave you waving at the ship as it departs from your port.

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