Shore excursions are pre-booked activities and tours arranged by a cruise company. When you dock at a port, a world of exciting activities awaits you. Cruise companies offer these activities as an extra package.
Cruise ships provide shore excursions that cover the majority of famous landmarks, historical monuments, and wildlife parks. Royal Caribbean is one of the most popular cruise lines, offering thrilling shore adventures.
This blog explores Royal Caribbean excursions that enhance the overall experience of your trip. Discover the top destinations this cruise line offers. Whether you are a history buff or a nature lover, you can find activities that suit you.
30-Second Summary
Royal Caribbean is a famous cruise line offering an unmatched travel experience to 300 ports. Each port has a unique culture and activities to explore and enjoy. This blog details Royal Caribbean excursions that are both thrilling and relaxing.
Discover opportunities to feed your adventurous souls with thrilling activities. Learn about the different cultural immersive tours offered by this cruise line. This extensive guide has all the valuable insights and tips to prepare you for an unforgettable trip filled with shore activities.
Planning Your Excursion Experience
Booking Process
To ensure everything goes smoothly, plan your excursions carefully. Royal Caribbean offers two options for booking your excursions. The first is to visit the Shore Excursion desk onboard. The second option is to purchase excursions online before the trip by visiting My Royal Cruise.
How to Choose the Right Excursion
The right shore adventure depends on your interests. Royal Caribbean offers:
- Heart-pounding activities for adventurous souls and relaxing getaways for people looking to rest.
- Intimate excursions if you like your privacy, and group activities if you want to socialize.
Age-Appropriate Considerations
Royal Caribbean recently updated its age policies for traveling. Before you embark on a voyage, make sure that you are aware of its age restrictions.
Top Royal Caribbean Adventure Excursions
Your adventure begins the moment you step on the cruise ship. However, Royal Caribbean offers shore excursions to enhance the experience.
This cruise line offers accessible options to cater to every individual in a group. Let’s take a look at the favorite excursions of passengers.
Shipwreck Snorkel in Bermuda Triangle
This excursion includes snorkeling in the Bermuda Triangle to explore its beautiful reefs. These reefs caused 300 historic shipwrecks. You will see the Constellation and the Montana in this underwater activity.
Pulpit Rock Hike
On this excursion, you explore the landscapes of Stavanger, Norway. Travelers discover mountain trails and cityscapes. You also hike to the top of Pulpit Rock, which is 2000 feet above Lysefjord.
Crystal Caves
This excursion is eight hours long and explores Mexico’s Yucatan jungle. You go hiking, swimming, and even shopping. You can also visit beautiful formations in a hidden cenote inside a subterranean cave.
Glacier Hike and Helicopter Ride
The 40-minute helicopter ride circles the most stunning glaciers in Alaska. You get a bird’s-eye view of these snowy formations. After landing, you start hiking to a different vantage point.
Daredevil’s Peak
Royal Caribbean offers unique experiences and great amenities on a private island in the Bahamas. Take on Daredevil’s Peak, the tallest waterslide at Thrill Waterpark.
Ziplining through Adventure Park
In New Zealand, you can enjoy ziplining. It includes seeing the most eye-catching views from above for 4 hours. Get glimpses of dense forests, red-clay landscapes, and lush green valleys.
Sailing Regatta in America’s Cup
Travelers sail aboard racing yachts in the America’s Cup. This exciting activity allows you to soak in the beauty of the crystal-clear water of the ocean. You do not need prior sailing experience for this excursion.
Mountain Bike Ride
You ride a bike in Corfu, Greece. This excursion gives you an opportunity to observe the natural and cultural beauty of the region. You navigate uphill terrains and narrow pathways with local guides.
Top Royal Caribbean Cultural Excursions
Royal Caribbean allows all passengers to dive deep into the culture of all ports of call. You can immerse yourself in the local culture, get authentic cuisine, and interact with locals for an enriching experience.
This section walks you through popular cultural excursions of Royal Caribbean Cruises.
Charlotte Amelie, St.Thomas
Saint John Tour: Travelers visit St. John from Charlotte Amelie on a boat. This trip offers breathtaking coastal views and a rich cultural tapestry.
Different Sites: Passengers visit different landmarks, including Fort Christian and the Emancipation Garden. Observe the captivating beauty of Mountain Top. Unwind on the idyllic beaches of St. Thomas.
Culinary Tour: You get an opportunity to indulge in the best cuisine of St.Thomas on this excursion.
Cultural Journey: You can travel on an open-air bus to Drake’s Seat. At Magen’s Bay, immerse yourself in its tranquil beauty. Moreover, you can learn about Caribbean piracy in the Pirates Treasure Museum.
Barbados
Submarine Expedition: Experience an underwater journey that combines culture and marine marvels. In Atlantis XV, passengers descend 150 feet below sea level. Observe fish, coral reefs, and a Barbados shipwreck.
Culinary Exploration: Every dish consists of authentic Caribbean flavors. This culinary trip allows you to taste the rich culture of Barbados in its flavorful food.
Historical Legacy: Visit Orchid World, St.John’s Church, Gun Hill Signal Station, and a lot more historical sites.
Island Heritage: The historic plantation railway delves into the enchanting history of Barbados. You can explore more cultural legacy by visiting the Heritage Railway.
Coastal Sailing: Snorkel alongside turtles in Turtle Bay. Relax on Barbados Beach to enjoy the island’s hospitality. You can enjoy complimentary cocktails aboard Tiami Sail.
Scenic Drive: A scenic drive to Harrison’s Cave Eco-Adventure Park to see the beauty of this island unfold. You can enjoy an enriching experience on a tram through this cave.
Sitka, Alaska
Raptor Center: Explore the natural beauty of Sitka through a motor coach ride. Gain valuable knowledge about the rescue and rehabilitation of wildlife at the Alaska Raptor Center.
Cultural Tour: You can enjoy the rich history of Sitka in Sitka National Historical Park. Watch traditional Tlingit performances and walk along the Totem trail.
Cuisine: At Channel Club, enjoy mountain scenery while enjoying the wild salmon, a Sitka culinary delight. Learn about the fishing industry at Sitka Sound Science Center.
Bike and Hike: Take a bike ride along the coastal roads of Silver Bay. Trekking through Tongass National Forest shows you Sitka’s ecosystem.
Castries, St.Lucia
Art and Cuisine: Get an excellent view of St.Lucia’s architecture by visiting three historic homes. The hand-crafted artwork by local artisans will leave you mesmerized. The authentic snacks and drinks at historic homes give a taste of culinary traditions.
Piton Mountains and Diamond Waterfalls: The village of Ansa La Ray offers a glimpse into the traditional lifestyles. Visit the Pitons, a botanical garden, and a waterfall in Soufrière.
Church and Capital: An open-air trolley train takes you to the capital of St.Lucia, Castries. Explore the Cathedral Basilica of the Immaculate Conception, the largest church in the Caribbean.
Scenic Drive: A two-hour scenic drive around the island of St.Lucia shows you its picturesque beauty. Get a chance to witness the creation of colorful batik prints at Caribelle Batik.
Wonders of Nature: Hike to see the most breathtaking views between the Pitons. Learn about the Amerindian art of farine to get insights into indigenous culture.
Belize
Culture: You can visit numerous culturally significant places, such as Baron Bliss Lighthouse, the Museum of Belize, and St. John’s Cathedral. A tour on the Calypso Train shows the vibrant streets of Belize.
Ancient Wonders: All history buffs can visit the Altun Ha Archaeological site. You can also see the Xunantunich ruins to see the historical significance of this region.
Culinary Delights: Savor the diverse flavors of Belizean cuisine. You can also visit the largest distillery to taste the beverages.
Natural Beauty: Explore the stunning Dark Night Cave. For a more immersive experience, take on a thrilling tubing adventure.
More Cultural Exploration
Mayan Ruins: If you are interested in archaeology, Royal Caribbean offers an excursion to ancient Mayan ruins. Passengers can explore the pre-Hispanic city of Chichén Itza in the Yucatán Peninsula of Mexico.
Amalfi Coast: Stroll through the charming seaside villages of Italy’s Amalfi Coast. Observe the laid-back lifestyle by wandering through the main squares and watching a wood-carving demonstration.
Barcelona: Royal Caribbean offers a guided tour to the Sagrada Família basilica. Marvel at the architecture of Antoni Gaudí, including Casa Batlló and Manana de la Discordia.
Canterbury: This cultural tour is excellent for all “Lord of the Rings” fans. Observe the dramatic views of High Mountain and learn about the fictional city along the Rakaia River.
Istanbul: The guided excursion takes you through the bustling bazaars of Istanbul. The Taksim Square, Beyoğlu Fish Market, and Grand Bazaar are the highlights of this excursion.
Best Destinations with Unforgettable Excursions
Royal Caribbean offers excursion itineraries that include iconic places. There are more than 300 ports of call where travelers can explore and rest. Whether it is island hopping or cultural immersion, the best excursions Royal Caribbean has something for everyone.
Mexico
Mexico is packed with some of the most beautiful scenery. Royal Caribbean takes passengers on an enriching trip, showcasing the top cruise destinations. In Mexico, you can visit the numerous ports of:
- Cozumel
- Cancun
- Mexica Riviera
Alaska
Alaska trips are all about discovering the unspoiled nature. The diverse wildlife, icy glaciers, and coastal forests make it an excellent destination for shore excursions. Travelers experience extensive itineraries for:
- Alaskan Glaciers
- Alaska Wildlife
- Alaska National Parks
Europe
Royal Caribbean lets passengers discover the vibrant landscapes and rich culture of Europe. From Rome’s ancient ruins to Norway’s fjords, you get unique opportunities to make endless memories. You can visit:
- Mediterranean region
- Greece
- Italy
- Croatia
- Spain
- Portugal
- Canary Islands
- France
- Baltic Sea
- Scandinavia
- Norway
- British Isles
- Iceland
- Ireland
Asia
Asian tours offer the opportunity to immerse yourself in the captivating culture and natural beauty of this region. Royal Caribbean sails to famous ports of Asia, including:
- Thailand
- China
- Japan
- Singapore
- Malaysia
- Indonesia
- Vietnam
- South Korea
South Pacific
South Pacific is the perfect region to explore the blend of tropical experience with vibrant city life. Every place has a unique charm that you can discover with Royal Caribbean. The destinations include:
- Australia
- New Zealand
- Fiji
- New Caledonia
- Vanuatu
- French Polynesia
- Tonga
North America
From the idyllic islands of Hawaii to the rugged coasts of New England, North America offers exceptional travel experiences for everyone. Royal Caribbean provides voyages to:
- Florida
- East Coast
- Texas
- California
- Canada
- New England
- West Coast
- Hawaii
Caribbean
Apart from sun-kissed shores, the Caribbean has a lot to offer. This destination has excellent cuisine and is culturally rich. Royal Caribbean itineraries include:
- Bahamas
- Bermuda
- Jamaica
- Puerto Rico
- Belize
- Eastern Caribbean
- Western Caribbean
- Southern Caribbean
Special Destinations
Royal Caribbean offers specialty cruises to various places. These cruises also include Transatlantic and Transpacific sailings. Other destinations are:
- South America
- Arabian Gulf
- North Africa
- Panama Canal
- Latin America
Onboard Activities to Enhance Excursion Experience
To complement the Royal Caribbean port activities, this cruise line offers a wide array of onboard amenities. These activities provide the perfect balance of relaxation and thrill.
To enjoy all onboard activities, you should know all the rules about the casino and drinking to avoid any trouble.
Action: If you want to experience adrenaline-filled activities, this cruise line has plenty of options. You can enjoy rock climbing, ziplining, FlowRider Surf Simulator, and ice skating. For game lovers, they have miniature golf, basketball, and volleyball courts.
Fun: If you want something laid-back but fun, participate in poolside activities and a scavenger hunt. You can sing your heart out at karaoke and enjoy bumper cars and roller skating. Adults have access to casinos as well.
Fitness: For fitness enthusiasts, participate in Aerobics, spinning, Pilates, and personal training. You can also use a running and walking track.
Rest and Recharge: For passengers who want to rest, you can participate in wellness programs. Enjoy full spa services, including hair treatments, facials, acupuncture, and massages.
Do’s and Don’ts of Excursions
Certain things can make or break your entire trip. Below are the lists of do’s and don’ts you should consider when deciding on excursions with Royal Caribbean.
Things to do
- Make sure to book your excursions in advance. Visit My Royal Cruise to see the available shore activities.
- Always pack appropriately for Royal Caribbean shore tours.
- Try to arrive early on the day of onboarding if you want to book an excursion through the Shore Excursion desk.
- Listen to your guide and enjoy exploring every destination.
- Ensure you are back on the ship before its sailing time.
Things to Avoid
- Popular tours sell out quickly, so do not wait till the last minute to book your shore activities.
- Do not overpack, as heavy luggage can be a nuisance to carry everywhere.
- Do not ignore the weather of a particular destination, and pack accordingly.
- Do not be scared to explore the ports independently.
Packing Tips for Excursion Days
Packing all your essential items for the excursion days ensures that you have a hassle-free experience. Some necessary tips for making your shore activities memorable are:
- Pack clothing according to your plans. Make sure you have your activity attire, swimsuits for beaches, and formal dresses for evenings.
- Always wear sturdy and comfortable shoes for hikes and other activities. For beaches, you can wear sandals and flip-flops.
- If you are prone to motion sickness or have any other health issues, keep your medication with you at all times.
- Keep your travel documents with you to ensure smooth boarding.
Wrapping Up
Shore excursions are fantastic for exploring the most popular tourist destinations at each port. Royal Caribbean offers exciting shore activities at more than 270 destinations. Both adventurous and cultural excursions offer an immersive travel experience.
This blog discusses the famous ports Royal Caribbean visits and explores. It outlines adventure activities and culturally immersive tours of this cruise line. Additionally, tips for excursion days ensure that your entire trip is fulfilling and memorable.
FAQs
How to See Royal Caribbean’s Available Shore Excursions?
Visit “My Royal Cruise” and click on Shore Excursions. You can browse and purchase available activities after you have reserved a cruise and received your cruise reservation number. You need to make at least one payment before purchasing any shore excursion.
What Should I Pack for Royal Caribbean Shore Excursions?
You need to be fully prepared before your shore activities. Pack activity-appropriate attire. Keep casual clothes for cultural tours and swim and snorkel gear for water activities. Pack comfortable shoes and sandals. Keep your sunscreen, travel documents, medication, and first-aid kit with you at all times.
What Onboard Activities does Royal Caribbean offer?
There are plenty of onboard activities that complement the shore activities. For exciting adventures, you can try rock climbing, volleyball, miniature golf, ziplining, and water parks. You can try karaoke, bumper cars, and roller skating for fun. The spa treatments offer a perfect opportunity to relax and rejuvenate.