Jayestravellingadventures

I believe cruising allows you the opportunity to explore new destinations which you’ll not normally get to see. Shore excursions offer a unique experience for you all organised by the cruise line. You just need to simply turn up.

You need to book a cruise with your preferred itinerary and then you can decided if you want to do the excursion the cruise line is offering or if you want to do your own thing at each port.

Like anything there are pros and cons to both and we look more into these options below.

Shore excursions:

(Pros)

Everything is booked for you, all you need to do it simply turn up at the meting point. To book excursions you can do it either on the cruise line website, over the phone, via the app or whilst on board. Its just that easy.

When booking direct you are guaranteed a refund if required. If you are stuck in traffic and you are late back the ship may just wait for your excursions return. If there is an itinerary change then you will be issued a refund straight away. This allows you peace of mind and ultimate relaxation.

Booking directly with the cruise line may give you exclusive access to attractions, guides and tours. Being given local guides who can unravel the local history and culture with pure knowledge can enhance your experience too. Transportation is included and already organised for you so, you don’t have to worry about finding available taxis or working out bus/train routes or even getting lost.

When I went on my first Solo cruise to Norway I booked excursions for every port. I have never been to the ports so, I wasn’t sure what I could do or expect. I met some amazing people on each excursion and we even hung around the ship and met up for dinner throughout the cruise. If I didn’t book directly, I would of been worried all day to get back or I wouldn’t of been ashore for long.

(Cons)

You might find some excursions cheaper if doing them independently however, the price is worth it especially when you end up watching the ship sail away. Each cruise line has different varieties of excursions they offer. Some may be great value and others not so much.

You will have a time frame to stick too for each excursion. For example you may be given two hours to explore a town, and depending on the weather and the location there might not be much to do. You will also be given a time for different stops along the route too. Everything is pre planned so you wont be able to do anything spontaneously or explore further if desired.

Going Solo:

(Pros)

When ashore the activities you chose are at your demise, going as far as you want, where you want and when. As long as you are getting back to the ship on time. This can work out a lot cheaper than booking an excursion via the cruise line. You can also look at the excursions offered and if you are able to do this independently.

Going solo you can explore more of the local experience and truly immerse yourself in how people live, and even try their local delicates in authentic cafes/shops. What you choose to do ashore is at your disposal. You do find some magical hidden gems.

I did this when I went to Rome and I explored the landmarks at my pace whilst going away from the touristy spots and enjoying local dishes whilst learning some history from the owner. Rome was thriving with tourists so it was refreshing to get somewhere quieter.

(Cons)

You are fully responsible for getting back to the ship before they unmask and set sail. Believe it or not but the ship will NOT wait for you. You will have to get in contact with the cruise line and pay for your own flight to the next port on the itinerary. This means that you wont have any support in navigating round the local area and you may struggle and find it discouraging.

Being solo with no local guides you might find it difficult to communicate due to a language barrier, especially if this is your first time. This may hinder your experience and cause trouble in finding your way around the area as well as, using public transport. Having limited time as well, you’ll need to do some research before to ensure you have the appropriate time to view the jaw dropping attractions.

I have only seen on a handful of cruises people turning up late and they are stuck ashore while we are slowly sailing out of the port. It may be rare this happens but, its still a possibility. Although your insurance may cover it, you don’t want to risk it and be out of money.

Consider:

If it is safe for you to explore independently, Europe is an easy and safe place to explore. Exploring Castles, Towers, Historical landmarks and many more, Europe is full of them.

When on a Caribbean cruise, you are likely to dock in places which you have to travel a couple minutes away before seeing the beautiful islands. They are also known to not be safe if exploring certain areas away from the tourist attractions. So always do your research even if you have been to that port before.

Do you consider yourself a relaxing and comfortable traveller? If you have cruised and/or explored the destination before, you might like to experience something differently which isn’t offered as an excursion. You might even like a challenge.

If looking for a bargain cruise, you might want to save money and not book excursions however, if you want convenience then having a budget for excursions might also be a beneficial factor. Considering you travel party you might have a more expensive view on excursions, for just myself and my mum it is £300 for 3 ports each, these aren’t the cheapest or expensive excursions that are available.

You will have different times in port, so its always good to factor this in as well. Excursions may take up the whole time you are docked in port so any additional activities might be unrealistic, or if the excursion doesn’t take up all day, you’ll need to factor in travel time and distance to the ship.

Who should book?

If you are a first time cruiser, a solo cruiser, or visiting for the first time, shore excursions are perfect for you. With no stress of organising or planning activities, its all done for you to sit back and enjoy the experience.

Having children of all ages, can mean finding something for the whole family to enjoy can be quite difficult, so excursions can allow the whole family to soak up the experience and have a fun time too.

Since covid there can be a concern with over crowding in places and overall safety. This is understandable and excursions can offer a small group rather than a free for all, as well as it offers a secure and convenient option.

Who should explore Solo?

If you have cruised or visited the locations before, then you may know what you want to see as well as do whilst ashore. Therefore excursions will possibly be a hinderance, so exploring solo will cause more adventure and spontaneity for your time ashore.

Many people have a preconception regarding cruise prices and being expensive, however cruising can be more cost effective than a land holiday. If you want to watch your spending and save as much money as possible, then exploring solo may be more of an affordable option. It is one of the many ways to save money.

If you like exploring places at your own pace and not having to rush or stick to a schedule, then going solo is ideal. You can set your own pace and be happier avoiding any crowding which could come with excursions. You may also meet some amazing locals, as well as see things you might not get too if on an excursion.

I love mixing my cruises with excursions and independent exploring, as I like to keep the local experience as well as experience some excursions I wouldn’t be able to do independently.

No matter if you are a well seasoned traveller or just someone starting out their travel experience, excursions are all down to personal experiences and what your travel style may be. Never feel pressured when looking at excursions, you can book up until the morning in each port. If you are unsure you can always mix on all lengths of cruises, so you can gain both authentic experiences. Make sure you always research each port, so you can plan for those you cant just walk off and explore.

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