Let's Make Booking Off-Ship Shore Excursions Less Scary

We know that it can be anxiety inducing to book your first activities off the ship. Follow our journey as we aim to make that less stressful by taking a few steps to help you out. Ideally we can help you save a significant amount of money while still experiencing authentic tours and activities throughout your vacation.

FIRST HAND EXPERIENCES

- The Shore Excursion Gurus

7/4/20242 min read

the Shore excursion Gurus on UTV off road tour in Puerta Vallarta
the Shore excursion Gurus on UTV off road tour in Puerta Vallarta

BOOKING EXCURSIONS OFF THE SHIP

Going on a cruise is an exciting experience, but booking off-ship shore excursions can sometimes be overwhelming. With countless online travel sites offering a myriad of activities, it can be difficult to find the perfect excursion that fits your schedule and interests. In this blog post, we'll guide you through simplifying the process of booking shore excursions, making your next cruise more enjoyable and stress-free.

IDENTIFY PORTS & INTERESTS

The first step in booking a shore excursion is to research your options. Start by identifying the ports your cruise will stop at and the highlights within the destination that are nearby. Most online travel sites will provide expansive lists of activities, including descriptions, reviews, and prices. We aim to eliminate most of the time consumed in this process and have curated lists of activities that meet these requirements. Remember, the goal is to find excursions that can be enjoyed nearby or have a close departure from the cruise ports.

FINDING AND FILTERING ACTIVITIES:

Once you've identified some potential excursions, it's time to filter through the activities to find the best fit. Consider factors such as the duration of the excursion, the level of physical activity involved, and any specific interests or preferences you may have. Some excursions might be more suited for families, while others might cater to adventure seekers or history buffs. By narrowing down your options based on these criteria, you'll be able to create a shortlist of excursions that align with your interests and schedule.

MEETING POINTS AND DEPARTURE TIMES:

After narrowing down your options, the next step is to check the meeting points and departure times for each excursion. This information is crucial, as it will help you determine whether the excursion can be easily accessed from the cruise port and if it fits within your itinerary. Make sure to choose excursions with convenient meeting points that are either within walking distance or a short drive from the port (We aim to make this part of the process significantly easier!). Additionally, ensure that the departure and return times align with your cruise schedule to avoid any potential pier running. When we cruise we only choose off ship activities that return an hour or greater before departure to account for any potential delays in the tour returning to the meeting point.

IN SUMMARY:

Booking off-ship shore excursions doesn't have to be a daunting task. With all the information gathered, it's time to make your final decision. Compare the shortlisted excursions, taking into account factors such as cost, reviews, and overall appeal.

By following these steps and conducting thorough research through our site, you can simplify the process and find the perfect activities to enhance your cruise experience. Remember to plan ahead, consider your interests, and choose excursions that are convenient and enjoyable with your time in port. Happy cruising!