Planning a Caribbean cruise can be an exciting experience. You have to choose a cruise line with schedules in the Caribbean; review the cruise ships; decide on the type of room you want; check your Caribbean travel budget; and last but not least, plan your activities. If your chosen cruise is sailing to or throughout the southern Caribbean, you can not forget to plan your cruise shore excursions in Antigua and Barbuda. Although it might be nice to just relax on board and savour the activities on the ship, enjoying the sights and sounds of these sister islands, might be worth your time.
Antigua and Barbuda is a popular destination for cruise ships visiting the southern Caribbean. The islands are best known for their three hundred and sixty-five beaches; their friendly and hospitable people; and their reputation for being a welcoming port of call for the cruise ships that dock there. Some of the more popular cruise line companies that visit Antigua and Barbuda are Carnival Cruise Line, Princess Cruises, Royal Caribbean Cruise Line and Costa Cruises.
There are a variety of cruise shore excursions in Antigua and Barbuda. Many of them were specially designed for the cruise ship visitor. They include island tours, beach escapes, snorkelling, sailing, golf and zip line adventures. Cruise lines usually offer special packages with one activity or a combination of these activities, but there is also the option of booking them on your own using a reputable agency in Antigua and Barbuda or an online booking site such as Expedia.
Antigua and Barbuda Island Tours
There are several ways to enjoy an island tour in Antigua and Barbuda. Options include island safaris, all-terrain vehicle tours, taxi and tour bus tours, buggy rides and helicopter tours. These tours consist of visits to points of interest which include famous look-out points, sugar plantations, tropical forests and historic shipyards.
Explore the Best Beaches in Antigua and Barbuda
The beach escape is perfect for the laziest day on the most beautiful beaches in Antigua and Barbuda. As part of your package, you will be driven to one of the finest beaches, where you can get a quick nap on a reserved beach chair; take a cool swim in the turquoise waters; go snorkeling around gorgeous reefs; enjoy a walk on a crisp, white sand beach; and sip on complimentary Caribbean beverages like rum punch.
Horseback Riding In Antigua and Barbuda
Spend your time in Antigua and Barbuda on a guided horseback riding tour on the beach. Horseback riding is an exhilarating cruise shore activity, which exposes patrons to shoreline and marine life. On your ride from the dock, there will be a briefing about how to stay safe during the tour. These tours are conducted on scenic beaches and you can even take a ride in the ocean.
An Antigua and Barbuda Ocean Excursion
The ocean excursion is a unique way to see the best of Antigua and Barbuda from the ocean. Indulge in snorkelling, sailing, swimming and sunbathing on your choice of a catamaran, kayak or sail boat tour. These tours take you through a combination of secluded mangroves perfect for exploration by kayak; diving and snorkelling around colourful reefs and relaxing breaks on sandy beaches.
Golf in Antigua and Barbuda
A round on an eighteen hole championship golf course is one of the more serene cruise shore excursions in Antigua and Barbuda. The Cedar Valley Golf Course boasts gorgeous views of the Caribbean Sea. It has well manicured lawns and vistas and a fully functioning club house. The golf activity package includes transportation to and from the golf course and a shared golf cart.
Zip Line Adventures in Antigua and Barbuda
If you are seeking an unforgettable activity, then the zip line adventure is one you should consider. This activity consists of a scenic forty minute ride, a short walk to the zip lines, the zip line journey through a rain forest that takes you as high as three hundred feet above the earth and a rope challenge course. Because this a high-intensity activity, all guides undergo training. They will ensure your safety through instruction and the use of safety harnesses and helmets.
Travel Tips for Cruise Shore Excursions in Antigua and Barbuda
If you’ve decided to book (or you have already booked) a cruise shore excursion in Antigua and Barbuda, please note the following tips:
- Note the specific guidelines: Take note of the specific guidelines for your tour. Some tours prohibit the use of cameras; are not available to pregnant women; require specific shoes; and enforce a minimum height and age requirement.
- Talk to your medical professional: Consult your physician or medical professional to determine if your desired tour is appropriate.
- Take your identification everywhere: Keep your cruise ship identification and photo identification with you at all times.
- Make sure you have funds: Walk with money and credit and debit cards.
- Protect your body from the elements: Pack sun protection, a beach towel, a hat and sunglasses.
- Prepare to make memories: Pack your camera and extra batteries.
- Dress sensibly: Wear light clothing with a change of clothes and swimwear or beachwear in your bag.
- Listen to the authorities: Follow all instructions given by your cruise ship and cruise shore excursion personnel.
A Caribbean cruise is an affordable way to see the beauty of the Caribbean. It is a unique opportunity to several islands on one trip and embark on an island hopping vacation.
