In the cruise community, there’s some debate about whether or not it’s worth getting off the cruise ship when in port. After all, some cruise ships have so much to do on board, that they might be the destination!
However, while it’s true that staying on the cruise ship when in port does have certain advantages, you might be missing out!
Whether you’re a new cruiser or have visited the same cruise port more than once, there are several good reasons to venture off the ship. Some might be obvious, but others may surprise you (especially #8).
Reasons to Avoid Staying on the Cruise Ship When in Port
1. Explore the Cruise Port of Call
Getting off in a cruise port is a great chance to explore a new destination. Cruising is a great way to visit several places, all in one trip! In fact, there are some places you’ll regret not taking the time to explore.
There are a few ways to do this:
Take an Organized Tour
Whether you book an organized tour or choose to visit on your own, you’ll likely be glad you did.
If you think that a few hours isn’t enough time to enjoy a port, think again. Excursions are organized to maximize time and enjoyment for cruise passengers.
Enjoy the Area Close to the Cruise Terminal
In many cruise ports, there are shops, restaurants, and attractions within walking distance of the cruise ship. Even if you’re on a port intensive cruise, getting off the ship and walking around the cruise port of call can be very enjoyable.
Explore on Your Own
Experienced cruisers or anyone who has researched the port, may want to make their own plans and explore on their own. In some cases, this can include using google maps to walk and visit local landmarks, taking public transit or even a hop-on, hop-off bus (depending on the destination).
2. Eat Like a Local
One of the wonderful parts about visiting a new destination is trying the local food!
As a foodie myself, I enjoy nothing more than getting off the cruise ship and trying the local cuisine. Whether you’re on a Caribbean cruise, a Mediterranean cruise, or an Alaska cruise, trying the local cuisine is always a great experience.
Throughout the years, I’ve had plenty of amazing meals in different cruise destinations. Visiting the different ports of call has not only allowed me to experience new dishes, but also to learn about different cultures and their culinary traditions.
3. Enjoy the Change of Scenery
Getting off the cruise ship when it’s in port is a good opportunity to stretch your legs and experience a change of scenery. Sure, staying onboard a quiet cruise ship is awesome once in a while.
However, getting off the ship for a few hours is a nice change of pace and can be enjoyable.
As someone who has cruised a lot, I have visited many cruise ports several times. However, we usually try to get off, even if it’s just for an hour or two, to walk around the port to experience something different than the cruise ship.
4. Purchase Souvenirs
One of the fun parts of getting off in port is going shopping and purchasing souvenirs. Often, you’ll be able to find a variety of souvenirs, including T-shirts, postcards, magnets, and other items you may want to bring home as a souvenir.
Furthermore, in some cruise ports you’ll find unique locally produced items that make great gifts. This can include cheese in St. Maarten, Goslings Rum in Bermuda, and the Ulu knife in Alaska.
There are gift shops or local markets at the cruise port, so you don’t have to walk far.
For you, a family member, or a friend, bringing home a souvenir is a nice way to remember your cruise vacation.
5. Experience Fun Shore Excursions
Booking a shore excursion is a great way to spend your day in port. This is a great idea if you’re visiting a port you’ve already traveled to.
Whether you decide to book a shore excursion with the cruise line or through a trusted third-party shore excursion company, there are so many great tours and activities to choose from.
Throughout the years, I’ve done sightseeing shore excursions, food tours, and exciting excursions like a Jetski and Off-Road Jeep adventures. These excursions were amazing experiences and a great way to visit a port of call.
Related: 10 Shore Excursion Mistakes Cruisers Almost Always Regret
6. Create Memories
Getting off the cruise ship in port is a great opportunity to create amazing memories. Whether you book a shore excursion or try a local restaurant or shop, there’s no bad way to spend a day in port.
You might be having a beach day with your family, enjoying a catamaran excursion with your partner or jet skiing with your friends. These are times you’ll remember for years to come!
Some of the best memories I’ve made cruising were my travel experiences off the ship. Don’t forget to take photos and videos too!
7. Contribute to the Local Economy
This may be a little altruistic, but it’s nice to help the local people and businesses in the cruise port you’re visiting. In our case, even if we don’t do an excursion we’ll often stop for a bit to eat or buy something from a local store.
It might be only a few dollars, but when thousands of cruise passengers are in port it does have an impact on the local economy.
8. Some Onboard Attractions Might Be Closed
A surprise for many is that activities on the ship may be reduced while most guests get off the ship in port. Certain onboard attractions might be closed for a part of the day as well.
So, if you’re staying onboard, be sure to check the daily planner to find out the opening and closing hours for whatever you’d like to do. Keep in mind that stores and casinos are almost always closed when the ship is in port. Even some bars may be closed due to regulations in some ports of call.
While staying on the ship can be relaxing, you may have more fun if you get off and explore!
Related: 11 Best Reasons to Stay on the Cruise Ship When in Port
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Final Thoughts on Reasons to Get Off the Cruise Ship in Port
Getting off the cruise ship is port is worth it. Whether you’re trying new foods, exploring the destination, or shopping in port, getting off the cruise ship is a great way to make the most of your cruise vacation.
Do you prefer staying on the cruise ship in port or getting off? Please let me know your tips and questions in the comments below.
Happy Cruising!
Ethan
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Author Bio: Ethan Schattauer has been cruising with his family since he was four years old and has been on more than 30 cruises. As a frequent traveler, Ethan shares his unique perspective on what cruising is like from a young person’s perspective. Ethan also writes about men’s fashion, travel and college advice on the website WhatToWearMen.com.