royal caribbean shore excursions for st thomas

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Top 8 Shore Excursions in St Thomas (USVI) Cruise Port Guide

All you need to know about the most popular shore excursions and tours for cruise passengers to St Thomas (Charlotte Amalie) port in 2022.

By: Editor-in-Chief Update: June 1, 2023

All cruise lines offer an array of shore excursions that cover all possible activities, attractions, and highlights in the cruise port of St. Thomas.

Even if you only want to relax on a beach or explore St. John ( a sister island) on your own, cruise lines have these types of shore excursions available. Cruise passengers should be aware that some of these excursions can only be experienced if you book onboard.

St John National Park

Photo Courtesy of Management

But there are also many attractions that can be explore on your own - or independently as savvy cruisers like to say - and it doesn't make sense to spend money onboard. For example, if the cruise ship passenger wants to go to Charlotte Amalie for a shopping spree, it doesn't make sense to pay for a tour.

The same is true if you want to explore the historical landmarks Charlotte Amalie. In fact many landmarks are not included in the excursion program. However, it is always good to look at what the cruise line offers - below, is the Editor's Choice of excursions organized by Cruise Lines and available onboard your cruise ship.

1. Best of St. Thomas and Shopping (and Magens Bay)

Photo © IQCruising.com

This is one of the most popular tours in St. Thomas combining sightseeing of the island and leisure time to shop in Charlotte Amalie. Some cruise lines (like Carnival and Princess) also offer a couple of hours of beach time at Magens Bay.

2. Kayak, Hike and Snorkel (Mangrove)

This tour takes the cruise ship passenger to the Mangrove Lagoon Wildlife Sanctuary and Marine Preserve - a 16 acre deserted island. Here the cruise ship passenger will paddle a 2-person sea kayak through mangroves and pristine waters. Snorkel the pristine waters of Cas Cay. Hike through the forest. Look forward to wildlife sightings like a visit to a hermit crab village, a coral beach, jellyfish, eagle rays, conch, sea cucumbers, starfish, turtles, octopus and so much more.

3. Tree Limin’ Extreme Zip Line

After a ride up St. Peter Mountain in a Swiss military vehicle to the summit, the cruise ship passenger will enjoy breathtaking views whilst crossing sky bridges to start the ultimate adventure in the Caribbean with 6 zip-lines. These include the exhilarating Yo-Yo zip, which allows you to travel backwards and forwards on the same line.

4. BOSS Underwater Adventure (Underwater Scooter)

BOSS, the Breathing Observation Submersible Scooter, is an amazing way of exploring the underwater world with no diving experience as it is designed to allow you to breathe normally while you drive undersea. On this excursion, a 60-foot custom dive yacht will take the cruise ship passenger to a site with crystal clear waters, where you will enjoy a stunning guided tour of wonderful tropical reefs with colorful fish.

5. Turtle Cove Sail &Snorkel (Buck Island)

Experience the thrill of sailing onboard a catamaran (or a pirate schooner) around the famous Buck Island and snorkeling in a beautiful cove. These are easy waters to snorkel with an abundance of tropical fish and brilliant corals. Optionally, you can just swim or soak up the sun on the open deck. Good to Know: full-day tours offer a Caribbean buffet and complimentary beverages, including rum drinks, besides snacks and sodas onboard. In the event of rough conditions at Turtle Cove, the boat will anchor at an alternate site

6. Sea Lion Encounter (Coral World Park)

Touch, pet and play games with agile sea lions on land and in water in the Undersea Observatory Tower. The excursion includes the admittance to the Coral World Ocean Park allowing free time for a self-guided tour. Here you can explore a stunning mangrove lagoon, a sea turtle pool, an open-air shark tank and 21 aquariums. Optionally, you can enjoy free time at Coki Beach just yards away from the park.

7. Screamin Eagle Jet Boat (Water Adventure)

Get ready to get wet on a wild ride in the St. Thomas waters with 180-degree spins, wild fishtails and power brake stops aboard a 650 HP turbo-charged jet boat at exhilaratingly high speeds. Please note that you will be sprayed by seawater. There will be stops for narration.

8. Exploring St. John (On your Own)

If the cruise ship passenger has already been in St. Thomas and explored this unique Caribbean island, the smaller St. John's island is close by and must see that will be both surprising in its pristine beauty and quaint charm. It is easy to visit on your own - literally - as all you need to do is get on a taxi to Red Hook and from here get on a ferry to Cruz Bay in St. John. Alternatively, you can have the transportation organized by your cruise line for an extra cost if it makes you feel more confident.

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The information on this page was accurate when last updated and published but changes may have occurred without notice. It is advisable to confirm details with local tourist information before planning your cruise, tour or excursion of St. Thomas. If any inaccuracies are found or if there are any suggestions to improve the content of this page please let us know.

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Excursions & Tours

Half Day Sail and Snorkel with the Turtles

St. Thomas Shopping, Sightseeing and Beach Combo

St. Thomas Island Overview

Coral World Express

St. Thomas Shopping and Sightseeing

Dolphin Swim and Coral World

Full Day Multi-Adventure: Kayak, Hike & Snorkel

St Thomas PADI Discover Scuba Course

The Fantastic St. Thomas Race

Kayak & Snorkel Adventure

Kayak, Hike & Snorkel Adventure

Historic Main Street Food Tour

Dolphin Swim, Coral World, and Coki Beach

Shark Encounter and Coral World

Coral World and Coki Beach

One Tank Certified Beach Dive

Two Tank Certified Boat Dive

Shark Encounter, Coral World and Coki Beach

Night Kayak in the Lagoon

SeaTrek and Coral World

Sea Lion Encounter and Coral World

St. John Sail and Snorkel

Sea Lion Swim, Coral World and Coki Beach

Snorkel St . John

SeaTrek, Coral World and Coki Beach

Dolphin Experience and Coral World

A Taste of St. Thomas

St Thomas Catamaran Snorkel

Virgin Islands Mixology Expedition

Private Sapphire Beach and Island Drive

Private St. Thomas Jeep Adventure

Private Vehicle - Half Day

St. thomas excursions.

St. Thomas excursions are a blend of scenic beauty and adventure, offering opportunities to explore lush landscapes and stunning beaches. St. Thomas excursions also cater to history buffs and culture enthusiasts with tours of historic landmarks and local artisan markets, showcasing the island's rich heritage and vibrant culture. Nestled in the Caribbean Sea, the island of St. Thomas offers a world of tropical wonders. As part of the U.S. Virgin Islands (also known as the USVI), St. Thomas is known mostly for its pristine blue waters, impressive all-inclusive resorts, and opportunities to see sea turtles up close. Whether you're looking for a full-day snorkeling adventure on a catamaran or some beach time on Honeymoon Beach, our St. Thomas shore excursions offer something for every type of traveler.

Excursion & Day Trip Highlights

St. Thomas cruise excursions are comprehensive Caribbean trips with a sprinkle of wildlife encounters. Immerse yourself in all the sights and sounds of St. Thomas by exploring the USVI’s capital city of Charlotte Amalie on your own with the St. Thomas Island Overview tour. Afterward, choose from a wide variety of tours and cruise excursions that allow you to enjoy the many water sports offered in the area, from St. Thomas snorkeling trips in Mangrove Lagoon and kayaking in marine preserves to sailing in St. John and scuba diving among coral reefs. Get close to the vast marine life on a snorkeling or scuba diving adventure, or witness these gorgeous creatures up close at the Coral World Ocean Park aquarium. From sea lions to sea turtles to tropical fish, St. Thomas boasts a variety of sightseeing opportunities for marine life lovers. There’s so much to see and do, it’s endless! Other notable St. Thomas sightseeing destinations include:

• Buck Island
• Drake’s Seat
• Mangrove Lagoon
• Magens Bay Beach
• Smith Bay Beach National Park

Best Excursions & Private Tours

Discover the allure of St. Thomas with our most popular excursions and tours, meticulously planned to provide unforgettable experiences.

Half-Day Sail and Snorkel with the Turtles

Embark on a half-day sail and snorkeling adventure in St. Thomas aboard a Morgan 46-foot ketch. Sail past cruise ships to Buck Island's Marine Sanctuary, where you'll snorkel with giant green sea turtles and vibrant marine life. Enjoy complimentary drinks and snacks while the crew shares island history. Refresh with a freshwater rinse on deck before sailing back home, savoring cold beverages and stunning views along the way.

Take a two-hour sightseeing tour of St. Thomas, showcasing its breathtaking landscapes and rich history. Journey along the island's mountainous terrain, passing by iconic landmarks such as Blackbeard's Castle and Fort Christian. Traverse "Skyline Drive" to witness panoramic views of Charlotte Amalie town, the harbor, and surrounding islands. Your knowledgeable guide will make stops at scenic overlooks, including Drake's Seat and Mountain Top (the island’s highest point), offering opportunities to marvel at the spectacular vistas and even enjoy a "world-famous" banana daiquiri. Conclude your tour with the option to explore downtown Charlotte Amalie's renowned shopping district or return to the cruise ship dock.

Trade in your snorkel gear for an underwater diving helmet with SeaTrek, the premier helmet-diving experience, and combine it with a visit to Coral World on this St. Thomas port tour. Led by a guide, you'll walk along an underwater trail surrounded by vibrant marine life, with fish and sea creatures greeting you up close. The helmet provides air, stability, and comfort, keeping your head dry while allowing normal breathing. Spectators can watch from Coral World's Undersea Observatory. Enjoy free time to explore Coral World before or after the trek, with convenient transfers back to the pier provided. Capture the memories with photo and video souvenirs of your dive.

Take advantage of this once-in-a-lifetime experience when docked at the port town of Charlotte Amalie and embark on the highest-quality St. Thomas tours and shore excursions in the USVI.

• St. Thomas/St. John

Shore Excursion Suggestions?

By Cruisen Elf , January 13, 2022 in St. Thomas/St. John

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Cruisen Elf

St. Thomas was just substituted as a port on our upcoming Royal Caribbean cruise next week.  Any ideas for a shore excursion?  We are willing to do independent or ship tours.  We have only visited St. Thomas once a number of years ago, so almost anything would be fine.  With such a short time frame to find and book something, I'm open to any suggestions.  RCI didn't have any of their excursions on the cruise planner yet.

Thanks in advance for any help you can give!

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Bostonjetset

We were there last week and honestly Magen’s Bay totally lives up to the hype. It’s absolutely gorgeous there. And they have natural shade in areas which is important to me.   

If your ship offers an excursion to St John it’s well worth going there as well. Even more beautiful. It’s a hassle to go on your own but it’s possible. 

St. Thomas has a lot to offer - great shopping, beaches and some decent snorkeling.  If you can tell what your interests are you will get better responses.

heels/colts

Best place to snorkel with out going to st johns

9 hours ago, Bostonjetset said: We were there last week and honestly Magen’s Bay totally lives up to the hype. It’s absolutely gorgeous there. And they have natural shade in areas which is important to me.    If your ship offers an excursion to St John it’s well worth going there as well. Even more beautiful. It’s a hassle to go on your own but it’s possible. 

Actually a self-excursion to STJ is a piece of cake! No more hassle than the cruise line option. In fact a much nicer alternative to a ship excursion IMHO. I can understand having some trepidation as a first-time visitor, but the taxi/ferry service there is very reliable. I would suggest adding the island tour if you go. But your time in port is a huge factor, as you need to allow 2 - 2.5 hours for round trip travel time and buffer time…  

Magens Bay is indeed the most-hyped STT beach by the cruise ship director. But I would look at the number of cruise ships in port as it does attract most first-time visitors. Of course if you are there on a very busy day then any beach offering the amenities you probably want will be busy.

Our beach of choice is Lindqvist (restrooms but no other amenities, sitting on our towels with a lunch from Moe’s Market), or Sapphire Beach where there are more amenities.

Why don’t you share your ship and date in port (or your sail departure date) and you can get some more pertinent recs? A day sail, a nice beach, some history with shopping are just some options…

3 hours ago, heels/colts said: Best place to snorkel with out going to st johns

Our choice would be Sapphire first choice), or Coki Beach or Secret Harbor…  

For good snorkeling on STJ you’d want enough time in port to go to Waterlemon Cay or Maho…

ULCajunCruiser

Not to hijack but has anyone done a private/semi-private/small group boating excursion??  I can't seem to find anything.  Part of the problem is we don't dock till noon (we are there for 8 hours).   Ideally we would visit 3 or 4 spots, do some snorkeling, see some scenery and do some swimming.

Yes it would have to be a private charter to go out that late. There are a few small powerboat operators that take out 4 - 6 ppl max. You can find them on the VINow site. Price was typically ~$600 + fuel but check with them for options.  

Thanks for all of the ideas!  We arrive in Charlotte Amalie, St. Thomas on Wed., Jan 26th from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM on Anthem of the Seas.  I like to see something of the island and its culture, while DH is happy on a beach.  So we're looking for something with a bit of everything (if possible), but laid back at the same time, if that makes sense.

14 minutes ago, Cruisen Elf said: Thanks for all of the ideas!  We arrive in Charlotte Amalie, St. Thomas on Wed., Jan 26th from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM on Anthem of the Seas.  I like to see something of the island and its culture, while DH is happy on a beach.  So we're looking for something with a bit of everything (if possible), but laid back at the same time, if that makes sense.

Ok so yes, a pretty busy port day with 3 ships at Havensight, and your ship and another RCCL ship at Crown… There are the cookie-cutter group tours that typically hit the overlook on , then Mountain Top for shopping and a gorgeous view of Magens Bay and the north shore, and a short stop at a beach (usually Magens). We’ve not used these but others can share their recs.

Another option is just taking a short taxi into town and getting dropped in the historic area. You can see the highlights on your own, then do some shopping, and after have plenty of time to return to the ship and then a short taxi to Lindbergh Bay (aka Emerald Beach). The Emerald Resort has lounges and umbrellas for rent. They may all be taken by then because there are two large ships docked in nearby Crown Bay, but there is a beach bar and a restaurant as well. Brewer’s Bay is another option but fewer amenities there…And Honeymoon Beach on nearby Water Island is a small beach with a food truck, but that will also tend to be very overcrowded…  

13 hours ago, blue_water said: Our choice would be Sapphire first choice), or Coki Beach or Secret Harbor…   For good snorkeling on STJ you’d want enough time in port to go to Waterlemon Cay or Maho…

Thank you. We are in port 8:00 to 7:00

On 1/14/2022 at 12:19 PM, heels/colts said: Thank you. We are in port 8:00 to 7:00

That is a very long port time! 😄

Most cruisers don’t have nearly that much time in port so snorkeling options are usually limited to STT, Trunk Bay on STJ, or a shared day sail.   

We are not avid snorkelers, but from everything I’ve read the best off-the-beach snorkeling options are Waterlemon, Maho and other areas that are a bit further from Cruz Bay. Trunk is not rated that well, but it is an option.

But because you do have the luxury of finding the best snorkeling for your day I would suggest posing that question on the STJ forum on TripAdvisor. That is an excellent resource for this type question. You can also get recommendations on a taxi driver who will work with you so you have more confidence in going to less-visited areas..

And of course a day sail is another option, there are several independent operators on the VINow site, both private and shared…

W're not sure what to do either. We're there 12-7 and likely will have massages on board in the morning so will probably just hop off for some shopping and lunch. Any specific areas in that shopping district on the North side of the bay worth targeting? Or good lunch suggestions - not a pizza and burger type family?

Not sure what you are referring to by “North side of the bay”? Havensight or Yacht Haven Grande perhaps?

Here is an island map -  https://virginislandsthisweek.com/st-thomas/st-thomas-land-activities/st-thomas-island-road-map/  

For lunch in town Gladys’ in Charlotte Amalie is very popular, we like the Green House when we are in town…You could also have a nice (but early) dinner before departing if you don’t do much else?

5 hours ago, blue_water said: Not sure what you are referring to by “North side of the bay”? Havensight or Yacht Haven Grande perhaps?

Charlotte Amalie is on the North side of the bay, Havensight is on the Southeast side. I was referring to the shopping district in Charlotte Amalie on the North Side of the bay. We've never done ay shopping over there but I thought for some reason there had some decent shopping there, unless I am just wayyy off LOL

We've done Greenhouse before and wasn't our favorite but will keep it in mind; maybe we just had an off day.

On 1/14/2022 at 8:17 AM, ULCajunCruiser said: Not to hijack but has anyone done a private/semi-private/small group boating excursion??  I can't seem to find anything.  Part of the problem is we don't dock till noon (we are there for 8 hours).   Ideally we would visit 3 or 4 spots, do some snorkeling, see some scenery and do some swimming.

Captain Max is fantastic, but only accommodates 6 people--reasonably priced and excellent!  https://www.max-charters.com/

Yes they are popular. I see they offer a 12:30 - 3:30 sail for 4 ppl at $600 each…

5 hours ago, LSUfan4444 said: Charlotte Amalie is on the North side of the bay, Havensight is on the Southeast side. I was referring to the shopping district in Charlotte Amalie on the North Side of the bay. We've never done ay shopping over there but I thought for some reason there had some decent shopping there, unless I am just wayyy off LOL   We've done Greenhouse before and wasn't our favorite but will keep it in mind; maybe we just had an off day.

Yes the vast majority of shops are in town. Many of them are also in Havensight, but you find many more choices in town….

Definitely try something different, Gladys’ is one of the most recommended lunch spots. 😄  

I'll take your suggestions and will definitely look into Gladys

SparklyPinkCruiser

On 1/16/2022 at 3:12 PM, ahite said: Captain Max is fantastic, but only accommodates 6 people--reasonably priced and excellent!  https://www.max-charters.com/

Do you know how much taxi fare would be to get here? 

2 hours ago, SparklyPinkCruiser said: Do you know how much taxi fare would be to get here? 

$10 - $11/pp depending on your port…

I've been trying to get in touch with Henry from Henry's Triple E Taxi and Tours.  Does anyone know if he is still working?  He usually responds to emails with 48 hours, but hasn't replied.  Also, I was not able to reach him by phone.

On 1/14/2022 at 10:24 AM, blue_water said: Ok so yes, a pretty busy port day with 3 ships at Havensight, and your ship and another RCCL ship at Crown…   How do you know how many ships are at a port?

The VINow site has a link to the cruise ship schedule which shows the ships scheduled to port in WICO (Havensight) and Crown Bay.  there are always schedule changes and ships porting that were not scheduled for various reasons, but it gives you a good idea of how many fellow cruisers you have to compete with…

Thanks! It looks like as of now we are in CB. I am on the Oasis of the seas

• 4 weeks later...

On 1/13/2022 at 8:37 PM, blue_water said: Actually a self-excursion to STJ is a piece of cake! No more hassle than the cruise line option. In fact a much nicer alternative to a ship excursion IMHO. I can understand having some trepidation as a first-time visitor, but the taxi/ferry service there is very reliable. I would suggest adding the island tour if you go. But your time in port is a huge factor, as you need to allow 2 - 2.5 hours for round trip travel time and buffer time…   Magens Bay is indeed the most-hyped STT beach by the cruise ship director. But I would look at the number of cruise ships in port as it does attract most first-time visitors. Of course if you are there on a very busy day then any beach offering the amenities you probably want will be busy. Our beach of choice is Lindqvist (restrooms but no other amenities, sitting on our towels with a lunch from Moe’s Market), or Sapphire Beach where there are more amenities.   Why don’t you share your ship and date in port (or your sail departure date) and you can get some more pertinent recs? A day sail, a nice beach, some history with shopping are just some options…

Does anyone have the website address for the number of ships at port?  When there are a lot, I tend to do a tour rather than just walk downtown.

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Royal caribbean vs. carnival: quick comparison chart.

Decide which line is best based on costs, food, onboard entertainment and other key factors.

Royal Caribbean vs. Carnival

Courtesy of Royal Caribbean International

Royal Caribbean International and Carnival Cruise Line have quite a bit in common.

Trying to choose between Royal Caribbean and Carnival for your next cruise? Check out the comparison chart below, then read on for more details.

Winner: Royal Caribbean

When it comes to fleet size as well as the features available on cruise ships, Royal Caribbean has an edge over Carnival Cruise Line. That's because Royal Caribbean already has 28 ships in operation, including its incredible Oasis Class, Quantum Class and Quantum Ultra Class ships. Oasis Class vessels like Allure of the Seas , Symphony of the Seas , Wonder of the Seas and Utopia of the Seas are some of the largest in the world – and Royal Caribbean Group is constantly rolling out new, even bigger cruise ships with better amenities and new features. For example, the new Icon of the Seas (scheduled to debut in 2024) plans to have the largest water park at sea, the largest swimming pool at sea, and a range of over-the-top cabins and suites for families of all sizes.

Meanwhile, Carnival currently operates 25 different vessels with a few more on the way. Newer ships like Carnival Celebration and Carnival Venezia aren't as large and grand as Royal Caribbean ships, nor are the brand-new vessels the company is planning for late 2023 and 2024. For example, the new Carnival Jubilee that is set to begin sailing later in 2023 will have 15 passenger decks and capacity for up to 6,631 guests, compared to 18 guest decks and 7,600 passengers on Icon of the Seas.

Read: The Largest Cruise Ships in the World

SBW-Photo | Courtesy of Royal Caribbean International

Comparing cabins across cruise lines as a whole isn't an easy feat, mostly because companies tend to offer larger suites and cabins with a better layout on their newer ships . You'll therefore likely have a nicer cabin on one of Carnival's newest vessels compared to an older ship from Royal Caribbean, and of course the opposite is also true. Cabin sizes and layouts also vary widely across the vessels of both brands, and that's true even for basic interior, ocean view and balcony cabins.

That said, Royal Caribbean still comes out ahead in this category, since the line boasts more square footage in some of the most basic cabins as well as more over-the-top luxury accommodations, especially for families.

As an example, most inside cabins on Allure of the Seas feature 172 square feet of space, whereas Carnival Celebration's inside cabins are slightly smaller at 158 square feet. Meanwhile, the largest suites on Celebration are the Carnival Excel Presidential Suite, with 1,120 square feet of space including the balcony, and the Carnival Excel Aft Suite, which has 861 square feet of interior and balcony space. Compare those options to the Sky Loft Suites on Allure of the Seas, which feature 1,132 square feet across the room and balcony, and the spacious two-bedroom AquaTheater Suites with 1,595 square feet including the balcony.

Book a cruise on  GoToSea , a service of U.S. News.

Winner: Tie

Food options vary widely across vessels within any cruise brand, and this is especially true with Royal Caribbean and Carnival. For example, older ships from both cruise lines offer fewer specialty dining options overall along with the main dining rooms and buffet options cruisers come to expect, whereas newer ships from both lines feature a lot more unique and innovative options.

When you view the cruise dining options from both lines, you'll quickly find that both Carnival and Royal Caribbean pull out all the stops when it comes to food. For example, Carnival ships include a range of eateries from large and expansive buffets to main dining rooms to unique offerings like Big Chicken, Guy's Burger Joint and BlueIguana Cantina. Meanwhile, specialty dining on Carnival vessels features options like teppanyaki, Emeril's Bistros at Sea and Guy's Pig & Anchor Smokehouse.

Royal Caribbean ships feature convenient buffets and main dining room experiences, as well as included options like pizza kitchens, noodle bars and casual fast food. Specialty dining on Royal Caribbean ranges from the brand's Chef's Table experience to Johnny Rockets' burgers and shakes to innovative fine dining at Wonderland.

Drink packages

Both Carnival and Royal Caribbean offer drink packages that cruisers can purchase as part of their vacation to get a more all-inclusive feel . Then again, the value of these packages depends on how much you drink over the course of your trip. Also note that the cost of drink packages across all cruise lines can vary depending on the ship, itinerary, travel dates, length of trip and more.

Royal Caribbean comes out slightly ahead in this category because the line offers three tiers of drink packages for guests with different needs. Choose from the Classic Soda Package; the Refreshment Package, which includes soda along with coffees, juices and even milkshakes at Johnny Rockets; and the Deluxe Beverage Package, which adds in beer, cocktails and wine by the glass. Meanwhile, Carnival offers just two different drink packages: the Bottomless Bubbles package, which covers soft drinks and juice, and the Cheers! drink package, which adds in spirits and cocktails, beer, wine by the glass, specialty coffee, energy drinks and more.

Read: Cruise Drink Packages: Your Options by Cruise Line

Onboard activities

Analyzing onboard activities across cruise lines isn't always easy – you really have to break down this category by ship for a true comparison. When you do that with Carnival and Royal Caribbean, you'll find that both lines offer fun activities for all ages, from onboard water parks to hosted games, casinos and more.

That said, Royal Caribbean does take things up a notch in this category, especially on the line's newer ships. Some Royal Caribbean vessels offer escape rooms, surf simulators, zip lines, game shows and over-the-top water parks with incredible slides for thrill-seekers. For example, Freedom of the Seas boasts huge onboard waterslides, glow-in-the-dark laser tag, mini-golf and more. Don't forget about Icon of the Seas with its massive water park and pool offerings in the works. Meanwhile, standout activities on Carnival ships include Family Feud Live, onboard water parks and the thrilling SkyRide.

Compare Royal Caribbean cruises on GoToSea .

Live entertainment

The quality of cruise ship entertainment varies widely based on the quality of the talent booked for individual ships. Both Carnival and Royal Caribbean offer their share of live music and entertainment, including performances by bands and singers, karaoke, and piano bars. Meanwhile, both lines also boast their own theaters on every vessel, which often feature Broadway-style shows, singing and dancing, comedy acts, and more.

Royal Caribbean comes out ahead in this category since its vessels feature award-winning musicals like "Hairspray," "Mamma Mia!" and "Cats." The open-air AquaTheater on Oasis Class ships also wows guests with incredible diving feats, stunts and aerial acrobatics. Some Royal Caribbean ships even have onboard ice skating performances and ice games.

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Kids programming

Courtesy of Carnival Cruise Line

Winner: Carnival

Both cruise lines have kids clubs that cater to younger guests of all ages, with each one offering supervised care so parents can drop the kids off for some alone time or a quiet dinner on the ship. However, Carnival stands out slightly in this category due to the six different clubs offered across the fleet for children and teens between 6 months and 17 years old. Carnival also offers supervised Night Owls services for kids 11 and younger, which lets parents get out and have some late-night fun for an extra charge.

Royal Caribbean offers four kids clubs for children ages six months to 12, along with a separate club for tweens and teens . Supervised child care is available for free during the day, and you can opt for paid care after hours as well.

Read: The Top Cruises for Babies and Toddlers

Adults-only offerings

Both cruise lines offer their share of adults-only spaces and things to do, from onboard casinos to luxurious spas to bars that offer cocktails and live entertainment at all hours of the day and night. Carnival and Royal Caribbean also offer adults-only areas on some of their ships.

On Carnival, for example, cruisers will find the Serenity Adults-Only Retreat for sailors 21 and older with extra space and comfortable chairs for relaxation, along with its own bar nearby. On many Royal Caribbean vessels, on the other hand, the onboard Solarium for ages 16-plus has its own pool and extra space to find peace and quiet.

Carnival's Serenity relaxation area is included for guests. While Royal Caribbean's Solarium is typically also included, on certain sailings there is restricted access by fare class.

Read: The Top Adults-Only Cruises

Shore excursions

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Shore excursions offered by cruise lines are largely operated by third-party companies and are often the same across brands. Both Carnival and Royal Caribbean boast a broad selection of excursions in destinations around the world, from snorkeling and scuba tours in the Caribbean to city tours, horseback riding, cooking classes and more.

Both cruise lines offer private and custom tours you can book through your ship as well.

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Private island experiences

Royal Caribbean and Carnival each have their own private island in the Bahamas , which is included in most itineraries to this part of the world. These private islands provide a fun beach escape for families to enjoy, whether you want to relax in the sun or take part in some of the available activities.

Royal Caribbean's private island, called Perfect Day at CocoCay, is the more impressive option due to everything it includes: a heart-thumping water park, its own wave pool, a zip line, a hot air balloon experience and overwater bungalows you can book for the day, among other offerings. Meanwhile, Carnival's Half Moon Cay has a unique beached pirate ship to explore – but fewer amenities overall.

Note that both private islands have plenty of beach space for guests to spread out and relax, as well as restaurants and bars. You can also book excursions on both private islands, which include activities like snorkeling and water sports.

Read: The Top Cruise Line Private Islands

Comparing costs across cruise lines can be tricky since fares and available sales vary throughout the year, as well as based on the vessel booked, the cruise itinerary, the number and age of travelers, and more. To get an idea of who wins on price, we looked for two similar cruises on comparable ships from Carnival and Royal Caribbean, then priced out an option for a family of four with two children ages 8 and 10. For the purpose of this comparison, we used seven-night eastern Caribbean cruises on Carnival Celebration and Royal Caribbean's Wonder of the Seas, both of which began sailing in 2022.

The Carnival Celebration itinerary from Miami stops in Amber Cove, Dominican Republic; San Juan, Puerto Rico ; and St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands . By comparison, the Wonder of the Seas sailing leaves from Port Canaveral, Florida, with stops in Philipsburg, St. Maarten ; San Juan; and Perfect Day at CocoCay in the Bahamas.

The chart below shows the total cost (including taxes and fees) for a family of four in January 2024 in both an ocean view and a typical balcony cabin across both cruise lines. Note that, for the purpose of this comparison, we selected the least expensive room option in each category.

Read: How Much Does a Cruise Cost?

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Holly Johnson is a professional travel writer who has covered cruises and other family travel for more than a decade. She has cruised more than 30 times across most of the major cruise lines and has ventured on itineraries around the world. Johnson used her personal experience and research expertise to curate this cruise line comparison.

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2025 Caribbean Cruises: Visit Puerto Plata, St. Thomas & Aruba

When you consider all that The Caribbean has to offer, you can easily see why the region is so popular among travelers. Its tropical climate offers a toasty respite from cooler climates, its white-sand beaches are unsurpassed, and its brilliant blue waters are idyllic. Together, these characteristics may explain why, according to the Caribbean Tourism Organization , the region saw over 28 million registered tourist visits in 2022, a figure that Travel Markets Insider projected would be surpassed by several million in 2023.

In 2025, you can count yourself among the lucky millions with one of Norwegian Cruise Line's cruise vacations in The Caribbean . Let's look at what beauty and thrills await you in the Bahamas, Barbados, Mexico, Belize, Honduras, and the Dominican Republic.

Ready to start planning? Explore all 2025 Caribbean cruises .

2025 Caribbean Ports of Departure

Norwegian's 2025 cruises to The Caribbean range from five to 15 days, originating from a variety of major North American, Caribbean, or European ports. Depending on the cruise itinerary you choose, your port of departure may be in any of the following cities:

• Galveston, Texas.
• Lisbon, Portugal.
• Miami, Florida.
• New York, New York.
• New Orleans, Louisiana.
• Orlando, Florida.
• Punta Cana, Dominican Republic.
• San Juan, Puerto Rico.
• Tampa, Florida.

Norwegian's 2025 Caribbean Ports of Call

Every itinerary with Norwegian includes numerous ports of call, allowing you to experience the culture, cuisine, and attractions of multiple nations during your cruise vacation. Here are just some of the major ports of call in Norwegian's 2025 cruises to The Caribbean , including cities in Central and South America:

• Basseterre, St. Kitts.
• Bridgetown, Barbados.
• Cartagena, Colombia.
• Cabo Rojo, Dominican Republic.
• Colón, Panama.
• Costa Maya, Mexico.
• Cozumel, Mexico.
• George Town, Grand Cayman.
• Great Stirrup Cay, Bahamas.
• Harvest Caye, Belize.
• Kralendijk, Bonaire.
• Ocho Rios, Jamaica.
• Oranjestad, Aruba.
• Philipsburg, St. Maarten.
• Ponta Delgada, Azores.
• Puerto Limón, Costa Rica.
• Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic.
• Roatán, Honduras.
• St. George's, Grenada.
• St. John's, Antigua.
• St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands.
• Willemstad, Curaçao.

RELATED CRUISES: 7-Day Caribbean Cruise: Great Stirrup Cay & Dominican Republic from Miami 7-Day Caribbean Cruise: Harvest Caye, Cozumel & Roatan from New Orleans 10-Day Bermuda Cruise: San Juan, Dominican Republic & St. Maarten from New York

Highlights of 2025 Cruises to The Caribbean

Many of Norwegian's Caribbean cruises have the same ports of call on their itineraries. These destinations are among the most desirable in The Caribbean, so you can experience some of the best the region has to offer. Let's take a closer look at the highlights of Norwegian's 2025 cruises to The Caribbean to give you a better sense of what to expect on your journey:

• Cartagena, Colombia: Featured in the 14-day cruise on Norwegian Jewel to the Panama Canal, which sails in January 2025, Cartagena is a historic Colombian city that's rich in natural beauty and urban splendor. Some must-see attractions are Old City Cartagena, Castillo de San Felipe de Barajas, and the Palacio de la Inquisición.
• Cabo Rojo, Dominican Republic: Located just southeast of the border between the Dominican Republic and Haiti, Cabo Rojo is a beloved beach destination because of its unspoiled nature and extraordinary coastal views. The azure waters are also home to some of The Caribbean's best-preserved coral reefs, offering sightings of fauna such as manatees and hawksbill sea turtles.
• Cozumel, Mexico: Cozumel is an island situated off the eastern coast of the Yucatán Peninsula. Here, you have ample opportunities for water activities, such as fishing, snorkeling, and diving, as well as explorations of wilderness at Punta Sur Ecological Park or the island's east side.

• George Town, Grand Cayman: Though only around 22 miles long, Grand Cayman has abundant offerings for beachgoers, culture and history buffs, art lovers, and families alike, and George Town provides easy access to it all. Some of the most popular destinations are Seven-Mile Beach, the Cayman Farmers Market, and the Cayman Islands National Museum, which features over 8,000 items.
• Great Stirrup Cay, Bahamas: Norwegian owns a 268-acre private paradise known as Great Stirrup Cay and offers it exclusively to our guests. In addition to beaches and water sports, the island offers opportunities for ziplining, shopping, and splashing alongside the famous Bahamian swimming pigs.
• Puerto Limón, Costa Rica: Puerto Limón , bursting with natural beauty, is well-suited to a broad range of cruisers. Adventure seekers may want to go ziplining amid the rainforest canopy or rafting down the Río Pacuare, and water lovers can go snorkeling at Cahuita National Park. If you're looking for a quieter time, relax on the beach or look for sloths near the port or in Vargas Park.
• St. George's, Grenada: St. George's , the capital of Grenada, is rich in distinctive experiences. One of the most unique sights is the haunting Grenada Underwater Sculpture Park, accessible via snorkeling or scuba diving. Other special activities to consider are rum distillery tours, tasting tours, and hiking to the Seven Sisters Waterfalls.

2025 Caribbean Cruise Vacation Shore Excursions

Norwegian shore excursions present convenient ways to experience ports of call without overthinking your day-to-day itinerary. Here are some featured shore excursions to consider for getting the most out of your days at port during your next Norwegian Caribbean cruise vacation:

• Barrier Reef Snorkel in Harvest Caye, Belize.
• Best of Bonaire in Kralendijk, Bonaire.
• Best of Ocho Rios in Ocho Rios, Jamaica.
• Cultural Journey & Soul Food Delight in Puerto Limón, Costa Rica.
• Dolphin Encounter With Stingray Sandbar in George Town, Grand Cayman.
• Exploring Magnificent Cartagena in Cartagena, Colombia.
• Fricolandia Beach Club in Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic.
• Golden Eagle Sailaway & Swim in Philipsburg, St. Maarten.
• Hot Springs & Botanical Gardens in Ponta Delgada, Azores.
• Island Zipline Adventure in Great Stirrup Cay, Bahamas.
• Nelson's Dockyard & Island Drive in St. John's, Antigua.
• St. Kitts Scenic Trail in Basseterre, St. Kitts.
• Two Oceans by Railroad in Colón, Panama.

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How to find a cruise excursion you’ll actually enjoy

Ben Souza has had some unforgettable shore excursions. On a cruise from Singapore to Thailand , he and his wife visited an elephant sanctuary, a high point in their dozen years of cruising. On a Caribbean voyage, he booked a tranquil day at a Bahamas resort. The property turned out to be ratty, with a trash-filled pool and a mediocre beach.

Unlike the animal encounter in Phuket, he wishes he could wipe that outing from his memory.

“If I had been on my own private tour, I could have left and went to a better place to relax,” said Souza, the editor of Cruise Fever who has sailed on 75 ships with 18 cruise lines.

For passengers, the land is as important as the sea. Many travelers choose a voyage based on the ports. However, because shore time is limited, they must be savvy when planning their excursions.

The most convenient option is to sign up for an outing through the cruise ship. The cruise line makes the arrangements and vets the operators, which is especially important in destinations with safety concerns. Onboard credits apply to excursions. In the event of a cancellation or disruption, the cruise line will issue a refund. Most important, the captain will always wait for tour groups to return, even if they arrive past the scheduled departure time.

“Some guests value having the cruise line handle everything,” said Michael Consoli, who owns a travel agency that specializes in cruises. “So they just have to leave their house and come home.”

Booking an excursion with the cruise line comes with disadvantages. If the trip requires a minimum number of guests, the ship will cancel outings that do not meet its quota. Alternately, if too many people sign up, you may feel like a lost lamb in a flock. On a recent Royal Caribbean excursion in St. Kitts, we waited in a broiling parking lot while the guide tried to find us a spot on the packed tour bus. He finally plopped us down on a hard jump seat that blocked the exit.

Excursions organized by cruise lines can also feel like a highly touristy way to see a port destination. During our trip aboard the Margaritaville at Sea Paradise , shore excursions ranged from a $59-per-person beach day, including chair and umbrella reservations, to ethically questionable wildlife experiences like an “Up-Close Encounter” with dolphins.

The cost is also higher than booking with a third-party operator, because cruise lines place a premium on extras. Independent travelers can save 25 to 40 percent on tours they plan themselves, according to Souza. On a Hawaii cruise, he arranged an island adventure that was nearly identical to one offered by the ship, except for the price.

“We all ended up on the same river cruise together. The only difference was we took different buses to get there and everyone who booked through the cruise line paid double,” he said.

Organizing your own excursions has additional benefits, such as greater flexibility, smaller group size, a wider variety of activities and a more personalized experience.

“If you want a truly unique experience while traveling,” said Souza, who organized a side trip to Capri for an upcoming Princess cruise that stops in Naples, “sometimes you just have to do your own thing.”

For advice on planning shore excursions, we spoke with cruising experts and tapped into our own seafaring adventures. Here are our top tips.

1. Book excursions as early as possible

Cruise lines open up reservations weeks or months before the ship’s departure date. Consoli said excursions sell out on luxury cruises that offer free shore activities, such as Regent Seven Seas and Silver Sea. The limited spots also fill up on mega cruise ships with thousands of passengers, such as Royal Caribbean’s Icon of the Seas .

“When you have a ship with 7,000 passengers, it’s going to be harder to get excursions,” he said.

If you change your mind, you can often cancel without penalty, depending on the ship.

You should also plan ahead if you are booking with a local outfitter. Tours and guides can be hard to come by on busy cruise days or during peak travel periods.

2. Stick with cruise lines on complicated outings

When deciding between a ship’s excursion and your own, consider the complexity of the outing. If the adventure involves several modes of transportation or long distances, signing up with the cruise line is the safer bet. On the other hand, if the excursion is close by and straightforward, you can easily make your own arrangements.

“If I was going to Cozumel and I wanted to do the pyramids or ruins on the mainland, I would book a tour through the cruise line because you’re leaving the island and you want to make sure you get back on time,” said Doug Parker, guest host of Cruise News Today . “But in Nassau, where I can see the ships from most places on the island, I would … do something on my own.”

In some countries that require tourist visas, only passengers who are touring with a licensed operator can disembark without the document. Souza discovered this arrangement on a Mediterranean cruise that stopped in Algeria and Tunisia. Consoli said China recently introduced similar restrictions.

3. Research tour options before the cruise

Part of the appeal of cruising is that the company oversees every detail. However, you should still read reviews of excursions posted on Cruise Critic , Tripadvisor or reputable cruise blogs to guide your decisions.

If you strike out on your own, carefully research the guides and operators in your destination, including the ones who solicit business inside the cruise terminal. Check their credentials and ask to see pertinent licenses.

Many cruisers use the same outfitters as landlubbers, such as Viator and Tours by Locals . Shore Excursions is also popular. You may also be able to find your own activities like cooking classes and food tours on Airbnb Experiences .

Parker said some excursions, such as hop-on/hop-off buses, are a set price, regardless of whether you book through the ship or the outfitter. However, if the purveyor has an online promotion, you might save a sliver of money.

If you book your cruise with a travel agency, the agent can also arrange private shore excursions. In addition to overseeing the planning, the adviser provides a safety net and can reschedule or cancel the tour on your behalf. Consoli said some planners, such as himself, do not charge for this service; they earn their commission through the cruise line and tour operators.

4. Look outside the terminal for better prices

Tour operators, rental agencies and taxi drivers hike up prices in cruise terminals. For lower rates, venture a short distance away from the disembarkation point.

If you take a cab to an attraction where taxis seem scarce, arrange a pickup time. Ilana Schattauer, who blogs at Life Well Cruised , recommends hiring the driver for the entire excursion.

“If I was doing something that was a little bit off the beaten path or if I wanted to go to a more secluded beach, I would have the driver stay with me,” she said. “Or I would book a tour where the tour guide and driver stay there.”

During our Margaritaville at Sea sailing, we used Google Maps to find a scooter rental company in Grand Bahama. Around 9 p.m. we called Bullseye Car Rental , a local agency with strong reviews. Despite the late time, owner Raymond Bowe answered on the second ring. He knew our cruise schedule, offered to pick us up and drop us off from port, and gave us clear instructions for where to find him when we docked. The total for the day’s rental: $49, including transfer and helmets — about half the cost of taking the cheapest shore excursion from the cruise line.

5. Ask locals what to do, eat and drink

If you haven’t planned your off-ship day down to the minute, talk to taxi drivers, shop keepers and other locals to get tips. Crew members, who are often familiar with the ports, also are great resources.

In Grand Bahama, Bowe was an invaluable source of intel for how to spend our day. We’d made no plans and instead took Bowe’s suggestions for beaches and restaurants.

That’s how we ended up at Bernie’s Tiki Hu t , where lunch for two — Bahama Mama cocktails and a fresh lobster tail fried on the spot — cost $35. We ate on the beach in front of the tiki shack, then swam in the sea before driving down to Terry’s Conch Salad Stand . Owner Terry Pratt showed us the process of breaking a live conch out of its shell and preparing it into a Bahamian ceviche. It was $11 for a bowl and far better than anything we ate on the ship.

6. Give yourself at least an hour for the return

If you have ever left an airport during a long layover, this rule will sound familiar: Don’t cut it close . Give yourself an hour or two before final boarding time.

“If the ship is sailing at 4, I try to be back at 3,” Parker said.

Schattauer reminds cruisers that in some destinations, such as Caribbean islands, the small roads can get congested, especially when passengers are returning to the ships around the same time. She said a few years ago, she rode a shuttle to Magens Bay on St. Thomas. The trip to the beach was a quick 15 to 20 minutes. The return took an hour longer. Because she gave herself a two-hour buffer, she arrived at the terminal before the ship sailed off.

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ADVENTURE IS A SHORE THING SHORE EXCURSIONS

DISCOVER YOUR OWN

IMMERSIVE EXPERIENCE

The excursions and guided tours designed to take your getaway to the next level — from locally-taught culinary classes and land tours infused with culture and history, to adrenaline amping outdoor thrills and off-the-grid exploration. Ready to revisit that bucket list? Explore the possibilities for shore excursions on your next cruise below.

ADVENTURE ON LAND

No matter what your ideal adventure involves, Shore Excursions make it easy to immerse yourself in each vibrant destination you visit. Unleash your inner explorer and discover bold new ways to connect with the people, culture and places around you as you sail from one unforgettable shore to another.

EUROPE EXCURSIONS

When you explore Europe’s ancient cities, every arch and alleyway tells a story. In Sicily, you can bike across the rim of Mount Etna, which the ancient Greeks believed was home to the legendary Cyclops. In Spain, learn how to prepare tapas like a true Malagan, then savor every single bite. And venture deeper into nature — literally — as you explore the magnificent Lipa Cave in Montenegro. No matter where your journey takes you, these experiences will make every moment memorable.  

PRIVATE JOURNEYS

For those looking for a more personalized adventure, there’s Private Journeys. Our Destination Insiders leverage extensive knowledge and years of travel expertise to hand craft one-of-a-kind private tours with you in mind. You can customize an existing tour that catches your eye, or work with an Insider to create an exclusive tour experience that’s completely unique to you or a small group. Celebrating a special occasion, chasing a lifelong dream, or looking for ways to rediscover a favorite destination? Private Journeys are at your service.  

DISCOVER WONDERS BENEATH THE WAVES

Adventure doesn’t just happen onshore — there are countless marvels waiting to be discovered just below the waterline. Brave the depths and venture down to the ocean floor, or scope out the reefs as you snorkel along the surface of the sea.

SNORKEL EXCURSIONS

Take your adventure underwater and discover a whole world that’s teeming with life. Swim with sea turtles and manta rays, float over vibrant reefs, and explore colorful coral forests on a snorkeling excursion designed to bring you up close with the ocean’s most beautiful natural treasures.  

SCUBA EXCURSIONS

There’s no better way to explore the beauty beneath the waves than on a guided scuba excursion. Dive deep below the surface of the sea with a certified expert and weave through brilliant coral colonies, scour centuries-old shipwrecks and come face-to-face with exotic aquatic critters.  

WHAT TO KNOW BEFORE YOU BOOK A SHORE EXCURSION

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• * Tours involving flights, trains, special events, overnight stays, hotel stays and Private Journeys must be cancelled 30 days prior to sailing to avoid cancellation penalties. Other restrictions may apply.
• + In the unlikely event that your tour is significantly delayed, we’ll make all the arrangements for you to return to the ship at the earliest opportunity at no expense to you.
• *Guests on tour under 18 years of age must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. 
• Read more on the Guest Terms site .

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