Cruising is an adventure in itself, but what truly makes each voyage special are the incredible shore excursions that give you a taste of the world beyond the ship. Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of experiencing some of the most breathtaking, thrilling, and culturally enriching excursions—but I’ve also had my fair share of disappointments. If you’re planning a cruise and want to make the most of your time in port, here are the best cruise excursions I’ve ever taken—and the ones I’d recommend skipping.
The Best Cruise Excursions I’ve Ever Taken
1. Dog Sledding in Alaska (Skagway, Alaska)
There is nothing quite like the feeling of being whisked across a snowy landscape by a team of powerful, eager sled dogs. This excursion in Skagway took me up to a remote glacier by helicopter, where I met professional mushers and their incredible dogs. The energy, the crisp mountain air, and the sheer beauty of Alaska made this an unforgettable adventure.
Why It’s Worth It:
- Stunning glacier views from the helicopter ride.
- Once-in-a-lifetime experience interacting with sled dogs.
- A real taste of Alaskan adventure and culture.
2. Snorkeling the Great Barrier Reef (Cairns, Australia)
No words can fully describe the magic of the Great Barrier Reef. Taking a catamaran out to the reef and jumping into the crystal-clear waters was like entering another world. The vibrant coral, the schools of tropical fish, and even spotting a sea turtle made this experience unforgettable.
Why It’s Worth It:
- One of the most famous and diverse marine ecosystems on Earth.
- Guided snorkeling tours ensure a safe and enriching experience.
- Incredible underwater photography opportunities.
3. Exploring the Ancient Ruins of Ephesus (Kusadasi, Turkey)
History buffs, this one’s for you. Walking through the ruins of Ephesus felt like stepping back in time. From the grand Celsus Library to the massive amphitheater, this ancient city tells stories of Roman and Greek civilizations like no history book ever could. Our guide’s storytelling brought the ruins to life, making this an enriching and awe-inspiring experience.
Why It’s Worth It:
- One of the best-preserved ancient cities in the world.
- Walking the same streets where Roman emperors once stood.
- A must-see for anyone interested in history and archaeology.
4. Swimming with Stingrays (Grand Cayman)
This was an excursion I was initially hesitant about, but it turned out to be one of the most incredible experiences of my life. At Stingray City in Grand Cayman, I found myself surrounded by friendly, gentle stingrays gliding effortlessly through the water. Interacting with these creatures in their natural habitat was surreal.
Why It’s Worth It:
- A unique wildlife experience in shallow, clear waters.
- Safe, interactive, and great for families.
- A perfect mix of adventure and relaxation.
5. Wine Tasting in Tuscany (Livorno, Italy)
If you’re looking for a relaxing, indulgent experience, a Tuscan wine-tasting excursion is the way to go. Sipping on world-class wines while gazing out at rolling vineyards is pure bliss. The local guides provided fascinating insights into wine-making, and the food pairings (cheese, olive oil, and fresh bread) made the experience even more delicious.
Why It’s Worth It:
- Stunning countryside views and historic vineyards.
- Tasting authentic, high-quality Italian wines.
- A slower-paced excursion that balances relaxation and learning.
The Cruise Excursions to Skip
1. Overpriced City Bus Tours
Many ports offer large-group city bus tours that promise a highlights reel of the destination. Unfortunately, these often mean sitting in traffic, rushing through attractions, and spending more time on the bus than actually exploring. If you want to experience a city, walking tours or private guides are far better options.
Why It’s Not Worth It:
- Too much time spent in transit, not enough time exploring.
- Large groups make it hard to ask questions or take in the sights.
- Often overpriced for what you get.
2. Dolphin Encounter Experiences
Many cruise lines promote excursions where you can swim with dolphins in controlled environments. While this sounds incredible, the reality is that many of these programs don’t prioritize the well-being of the animals. There are far better ways to experience marine life, such as snorkeling or diving in their natural habitats.
Why It’s Not Worth It:
- Ethical concerns about the treatment of dolphins.
- Often expensive with limited interaction.
- Wild marine encounters are far more rewarding.
3. Jewelry or Shopping “Tours”
Certain ports, especially in the Caribbean, offer “shopping excursions” that promise exclusive deals on jewelry and luxury goods. These tours often funnel tourists into specific stores with inflated prices and high-pressure sales tactics. You can usually find better souvenirs just by walking around on your own.
Why It’s Not Worth It:
- You can explore shops on your own for free.
- Sales-driven experiences rather than genuine cultural immersion.
- Prices are often marked up despite being presented as “exclusive deals.”
4. Large-Scale Beach Excursions
Many beach excursions organized by cruise lines drop hundreds of passengers at a single beach, making for a crowded, overpriced experience. You’re often better off researching a quieter beach or booking a smaller, private excursion for a more relaxing experience.
Why It’s Not Worth It:
- Overcrowded beaches with expensive food and drink options.
- Limited shaded areas and rushed time slots.
- A more authentic beach day can be found with a little independent planning.
5. Hop-On, Hop-Off Buses in Ports
While hop-on, hop-off buses are great in some cities, they don’t always work well in cruise ports where time is limited. You may end up waiting for buses or missing key sites, making for a frustrating experience.
Why It’s Not Worth It:
- Unreliable schedules mean you could miss your ship’s departure.
- Too much waiting, not enough exploring.
- Local taxis or guided walking tours offer better value and flexibility.
Final Thoughts: Choosing the Best Cruise Excursion for You
The key to an amazing shore excursion is balancing adventure, culture, and relaxation. Whether it’s exploring ancient ruins, snorkeling in pristine waters, or indulging in world-class food and wine, the best excursions enrich your travel experience and leave you with unforgettable memories.
When booking your next cruise, be selective about your excursions—invest in the ones that offer authentic, immersive experiences and skip the ones that feel like overpriced tourist traps. Your time in port is precious, so make every moment count!
