Sunday, March 31, 2024

How I Planned My Jamaica Carnival Trip and What You Need to Know About the Caribbean Celebration

jamaica carnival cruise

The cruise ports in Jamaica are located along the northwestern coast, with Ocho Rios and Montego Bay being popular port towns for cruise ships. The infrastructure at each Jamaica cruise ship port is expertly crafted to accommodate an array of vessels, from majestic cruise behemoths to the most exquisite boutique yachts. The vibrant and recently renovated local markets and the new artisan village offer travelers an immersive cultural experience. Here, one can discover and take home authentic crafts and sample the local cuisine. The variety of shore excursions at the Ocho Rios cruise terminal is vast, ranging from horseback riding excursions to high-speed Jamaican bobsledding experiences and exhilarating zipline tours. For a relaxing Jamaican cruise, jump on board the brand new Celebrity Beyond, which sails a nine-night Caribbean itinerary round trip from Fort Lauderdale.

Things to do in Ocho Rios

With the falls just a stone’s throw away, the port’s location is ideal for those seeking relaxation and recreation. Begin your Kingston adventure with a visit to the iconic Bob Marley Museum. Explore the former home of the reggae legend, learn about his life and immerse yourself in the history of Jamaican music. Most cruise lines that call on the Port of Kingston (Port Royal), including Regent Seven Seas, Seabourn and Silversea offer a Bob Marley cultural tour that includes the museum. Kingston, Jamaica is a city brimming with culture, history and vibrant musical energy.

Go Zip Lining in the Jungle, One of the Most Thrilling Things to Do in Montego Bay

This cruise aboard the Carnival Sunrise departs from Miami for a day at sea before arriving in Grand Cayman. After leaving the Cayman Islands, the ship moves on to Ocho Rios, Jamaica, where excursions include swimming with dolphins, river tubing, zip lining, and horseback riding along the shore. The major cruise ports of Jamaica are Montego Bay, Ocho Rios, Falmouth, and Kingston.

MSC Cruises, Western Caribbean; 14 Nights

The shuttle has stops close to all main attractions in Mo'Bay - Hip-Strip, Margaritaville, Doctors Cave and Downtown. Cruise lines stopping at this quiet port in Jamaica include Silversea, Regent Seven Seas and Oceania. When your cruise ship docks in this picturesque port, make the most of your time with these unforgettable activities. Holland America Line is one of the many cruise lines that visit Falmouth and offer river rafting adventures. Drift along the calm waters while taking in the lush tropical scenery and enjoying the company of knowledgeable raft captains. While the parade is a highlight, the Jamaica’s carnival offers so much more, like beach fetes and catamaran cruises by SunKissed Events.

In Montego Bay, guests can explore lively beachfront promenades, while Ocho Rios provides easy access to iconic waterfalls and lush tropical gardens. For those entranced by heritage and architecture, Falmouth’s Georgian buildings convey stories of the past. Port Antonio invites those aboard to soak in its Hollywood-worthy vistas. Meanwhile, Kingston—Jamaica’s heart of culture and creativity—enthralls visitors with its artistic soul and culinary delights.

Carnival Glory Calls at Montego Bay, Jamaica

jamaica carnival cruise

But even if you’re not looking to partake officially, it’s absolutely worth being in town to hear Antigua and Barbuda’s legendary steel bands. Hodges Bay Resort & Spa on Antigua’s north coast is one of the island’s newest and most impressive hotels.In August, kick things up a notch in Grenada, where “Spicemas” runs from the start of the month through the 15th. Find info on “Fancy Mas” bands at spicemasgrenada.com if you’re more into feathers than pitchforks. The Crop Over Festival actually runs for about three months, a celebration of Bajan music, food, and arts that culminates in a masquerade parade called Kadooment Day.

Your Jamaica cruise ship berth is an extension of the island’s famed hospitality—welcoming every soul aboard to explore, indulge, and ultimately fall in love with this Caribbean jewel. Guests arriving at the Port Antonio cruise port find themselves in an idyllic setting where nature’s grandeur meets history. Unique shore excursions transport visitors from the picturesque lagoons to the heart of the Rio Grande River, renowned for its serene rafting journeys. These experiences starkly contrast with the vivid bustle at other ports, allowing a rare glimpse into Jamaica’s soulful side. Upon docking at the Ocho Rios cruise ship pier, visitors are immediately enveloped by the warm Jamaican ambiance. The port boasts diverse attractions, including the renowned Dunn’s River Falls – a staggering cascade of crystalline water inviting guests to climb its natural stone staircase.

Ocho Rios on Jamaica’s northern coast is the island's largest and best-located cruise port. It offers easy access to two of Jamaica’s top attractions—Dunn’s River Falls and Mystic Mountain, where you’ll find bobsledding and zip-lining—and several of Jamaica’s most popular activities. In Ocho Rios, you can ride horses on the beach, take a tour to learn about Bob Marley and the roots of reggae music, or relax on sandy beaches. The port is a quick walk from town, making it easy to explore on your own if you choose not to take an excursion.

Carnival cruise ship damaged during Jamaica storm - FOX 35 Orlando

Carnival cruise ship damaged during Jamaica storm.

Posted: Wed, 07 Feb 2024 08:00:00 GMT [source]

Departing from Fort Lauderdale, Celebrity Reflection spends the first day at sea, giving guests the opportunity to relax in the spa, pool, and solarium. Cozumel is the first stop; the island's coral reef is ideal for snorkeling and diving, while deep-sea fishing is also an option. If you prefer to stay on dry land, you can ferry to Playa del Carmen and Tulum, shop for local-made souvenirs, or dine on fresh seafood and Mexican specialties.

It boasts 32 restaurants, bars, and lounges and has a spa that offers a selection of more than 120 treatments. The cruise makes its first stop in Grand Cayman before stopping in Aruba and Curacao. Its last stop is Falmouth, Jamaica, a town with cobblestone streets lined with Georgian architecture that sits between Ocho Rios and Montego Bay. From Falmouth, cruise passengers can opt to ride a bamboo raft along the Martha Brae River, climb to the top of Dunn’s River Falls, or lounge on the beach. This is an area of Jamaica known for its long emerald rivers, caves, waterfalls, and beaches, there may be no better place to relax in Jamaica. With each port of call offering a unique slice of the island, where sun, sea, and history dance together, the promise of an epic adventure is guaranteed.

For Jamaica, opening another cruise port will be welcome news to the economy, especially local businesses that rely on cruise ship visitors. Guests were allowed to enjoy the day on various controlled tours and browse local craft vendors. As the Kingston, Jamaica cruise port welcomes travelers, it introduces them to an array of historical and modern experiences that reflect the country’s festive spirit. This port is more than just a stop; it’s an open door to Jamaica’s soul, inviting guests to immerse themselves in culture and gastronomy that is distinctly Jamaican yet universally appealing. Visitors to Jamaica are spoilt for choice when selecting a cruise port destination.

Whether you're an adventure seeker, nature enthusiast or history buff, the caves provide a memorable and educational experience amidst their stunning natural beauty. Montego Bay offers exhilarating zip-lining adventures through the jungle canopy for those thrill-seekers. Feel the rush as you soar above the treetops and enjoy breathtaking views of the landscape. We found zipline excursions available through most of the cruise lines that call on Montego Bay, including, MSC, which cruises to Montego Bay from Miami.

Carnival Cruise Ship Becomes First to Return to Montego Bay in Jamaica

jamaica carnival cruise

This quaint Jamaica port, set within the protective embrace of the Errol Flynn Marina, offers a haven for luxury liners and discerning travelers. A respite from the vibrancy of Falmouth or Ocho Rios, it presents the promise of an authentic Jamaican experience underscored by an air of exclusivity and serene charm. The ship then visits Oranjestad, Aruba; Willemstad, Curacao; and Kralendijk, Bonaire, before turning its bow to the north, toward Florida.

Carnival Cruises to Jamaica

Miami cruise hits rough seas and pier. How the incident affected passengers and trip - Miami Herald

Miami cruise hits rough seas and pier. How the incident affected passengers and trip.

Posted: Wed, 07 Feb 2024 08:00:00 GMT [source]

Royal Caribbean, Princess Cruises, Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) and Carnival are just a few of the cruise lines that visit Jamaica leaving from U.S. cities including Tampa, Fort Lauderdale, Miami, New Orleans and Galveston. Though the cost of a Jamaica cruise can vary greatly depending on your itinerary, length of trip, cruise line and a number of other factors, there are numerous options to choose from for every budget. Kingston, known as the heartbeat of Jamaica, resonates with creative energy, especially within its esteemed cultural institutions. Visitors can delve into reggae legend at the Bob Marley Museum, housed in the iconic musician’s former residence. Here, the story of the king of reggae unfolds amongst personal memorabilia and captivating exhibitions. The Jamaica National Gallery furthers the cultural excursion with impressive local and international art displays, showcasing the island’s artistic evolution and diversity.

An In-Depth Look at Ocho Rios Cruise Port

With the rising recognition of Jamaica’s Carnival every year, more and more parties have become part of the build-up to this momentous Caribbean carnival celebration. Starting as early as February, there are breakfast fetes, street jouverts and even beach-side celebrations around the island. Jamaica Carnival primarily occurs in Kingston, Ocho Rios resort, and Montego Bay. The four main masquerade bands are all located in Kingston with one based out of Ocho Rios. The travel insurance I recommend you go for is SafetyWing if you want comprehensive coverage travel insurance.

Georgian Elegance and Cultural Expeditions

Begin your Port Antonio adventure at Frenchman's Cove, often considered one of the most beautiful beaches in the Caribbean. Relax on its pristine white sands, swim in the azure waters, and admire the lush surroundings. Take a rainforest adventure at Mystic Mountain, where you can soar above the treetops on a thrilling zipline or bobsled through the lush landscape.

jamaica carnival cruise

As guests step off their vessels, they’re not greeted with the typical commercial fanfare but rather the whispers of Port Antonio’s lush landscapes and historical footpaths. Here, one can indulge in the luxury of time and space, utterly embracing the slow pace that characterizes this hidden gem. Falmouth Jamaica Cruise Port beautifully intertwines the rich tapestry of history with the sophistication of modern amenities. As visitors disembark, they are greeted by an atmosphere where the past is honored, and luxuries of the present are readily available.

Sir Richard Branson Delivers Surprise Free Cruises on Streets of London

The streets are also lined with vendors selling drinking and jerk chicken to keep the revellers (masqueraders) going. The locals ensure they party hard in anticipation of this big event during two months full of soca parties every week. Not only do road marches take place here but also extraordinary stages featuring both renowned international performers as well as local artists. For a longer cruise, consider the Celebrity Beyond’s 11-night Southern Caribbean itinerary which adds a stop in Cartagena, Colombia.

Whether on the lookout for a splash of adventure or a dash of history, these Jamaica ports are bustling epicenters of Jamaican spirit. Between ports, travelers can enjoy the spa, fitness center, live performances, kids' activities, and a variety of restaurants aboard the Mariner of the Seas. Following the cruising day is a stop at Royal Caribbean's private CocoCay in the Bahamas.

jamaica carnival cruise

Carnival Magic Dented and Scraped Hitting Jamaica Pier in Strong Winds - The Maritime Executive

Carnival Magic Dented and Scraped Hitting Jamaica Pier in Strong Winds.

Posted: Wed, 07 Feb 2024 08:00:00 GMT [source]

This epic journey begins in Rome and spends a day sailing the Mediterranean Sea before sailing to Valencia and Santa Cruz de Tenerife in Spain. From Spain, the Oceania Vista crosses the Atlantic Ocean for just over two weeks of hopping around some of the Caribbean's top destinations. The cruise stops in Antigua, Puerto Rico, and Cozumel, before eventually making its way to Montego Bay. But there’s so much to do on the Meraviglia, it may be tough to get your kids off the ship. The ship is home to a full-size bowling alley, F1 simulators, an epic waterpark with twisty slides and a sports field.

How many cruise ports are there in Jamaica?

If you’re looking for a cruise line that’s got something for everyone, MSC has you covered. The 11-night itinerary visits the Bahamas, Aruba, Curaçao, Dominican Republic, and Ocho Rios, Jamaica. In Ocho Rios, guests can choose from several excursions including a traditional bamboo rafting tour. That excursion dives into the history of the island, taking travelers to historical sights as well as scenic spots. Guests learn about rum production on the island while sampling locally made rums.

It has a rich culture, stunning landscapes and some of the most active excursions you’ll find on your cruise. We found a mix of mainstream and upscale cruise lines calling on Montego Bay. Cruise Critic went looking for the best things to do in Jamaica in each port of call, which include Montego Bay, Falmouth, Ocho Rios, Kingston and Port Antonio.

Book this excursion through your cruise line, including onboard Oceania Sirena. Gain insights into Jamaica's Rastafarian culture by visiting the Rastafari Indigenous Village. Engage with locals, learn about their lifestyle, and enjoy traditional drumming and singing.

Bands provide everything from food and drink during festivities to the glorious costumes Carnival is famous for. It’s been six years since I’ve experienced Carnival in Trinidad, a flurry of activity and soca-inflected joy that remains among my most treasured memories. Planning out my Carnival trip this time, I was excited to play mas on different ground, and to hear soca blaring through the air in Jamaica. The pre-purchase window for certain products and activities closes between one and three days prior to the sail date. If you missed the purchase window, check with us once you're on board — we'll help you find what you’re looking for.

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