Cruise lines often include shore excursions in each port of call, and for good reason. They provide an immersive way to explore a new destination and add to your list of bucket list experiences.
However, sometimes a shore excursion may not be suitable for you. In such cases, you might want to consider booking one through a non-ship sponsored tour instead of through your cruise line.
1. Scuba Diving
Scuba diving provides guests with an unforgettable thrill as they dive through stunning coral reefs surrounded by tropical fish and other marine life. No matter if you’re experienced or just starting out, scuba is one of the top shore excursions available on cruises for adventurers seeking an exciting shore excursion.
Diving can be an excellent way to stay fit, as the water provides buoyancy that tones muscles and keeps you from getting fatigued. Furthermore, diving helps improve balance and posture as well.
Scuba diving offers a variety of methods, such as day boat and liveaboard options. However, it should be noted that scuba diving may not be suitable for everyone; people with asthma or respiratory conditions such as emphysema should avoid it.
2. Snorkeling
Snorkeling is an amazing way to explore the sea and view some of its most stunning natural attractions. You may swim alongside sea turtles, manta rays and many other marine life species. Snorkeling provides you with an up close and personal encounter with some of nature’s most stunning creatures!
Snorkeling is best done in a calm bay or beach where there is little to no current and waves. This allows you to slowly progress towards your comfort depth without becoming too fatigued or stressed out.
Some cruise lines offer shore excursions that include snorkeling on a boat ride to an idyllic island. These tours are usually well-organized and make finding an ideal snorkeling spot easier.
3. ATV Riding
At each port of call, passengers have a wide selection of shore excursions to choose from. Many are tailored towards thrill-seekers while others provide families with an immersive cultural experience.
One of the most sought-after activities is ATV Riding. It’s an exhilarating way to explore nature and discover places you wouldn’t be able to reach on foot or by car.
To have an enjoyable ATV ride, it’s essential to learn how to navigate safely. Start with a basic machine you know you can handle and practice on local trails before venturing out onto more challenging terrain.
ATVs can be hazardous and cause injuries to riders and passengers, particularly children. Thus, make sure your child knows and follows all safety instructions closely.
4. Parasailing
Parasailing is one of the most thrilling activities you can do while on a cruise, offering breathtaking views of your favorite tropical destinations. Parasailing provides you with this unforgettable sensation and allows for lasting memories to be made.
Parasailing is an exhilarating activity suitable for kids and adults of all ages. It doesn’t require any special training or qualifications and it is completely safe.
Parasailing involves towing a person behind a boat while attached to an innovative parachute. As the boat accelerates, this parachute catches air and increases pressure, lifting the passenger up into the air.
5. Zip Lining
Zip Lining is one of the hottest adventure activities available today. Whether you’re trekking through the Himalayas or Costa Rica’s rainforest, Zip Line Adventures provide an exhilarating way to experience nature at its most thrilling.
When you hear the term “Zip Line,” the image that immediately comes to mind is an incredible view from a cable suspended above an incline. But what exactly is a Zip Line?
Zip lines utilize stainless steel cables, pulleys, safety belts and gravity to achieve various feats. From crossing deep river canyons and wide gorges to transporting equipment for wildlife biologists – zip lines offer an unbeatable form of transportation and exploration.