ports

[gramgill]

this is my first time on this very informative sight so treat me carefully.
we have just pushed the boat out (sorry could'nt resist the pun) and booked our first cruise the western carribean on the explorer of the seas in early january.
my first of probably many questions is - there many of the ports - George town grand caymon, labadee, cozomel, Ocho Rios that we could get of the ship and go for a walk to explore ourselves possibly into the town centre and shops or are the shops well away from the ports? we are saving hard for this trip for my 40th and cant really afford trips in each port any advice appreciated
graham
aberdeen
scotland

 

[Chippsetter]

Yes, all of them have shops and stuff within walking distance.

 

[agreene]

Cozumel has the best shopping of all of those. I dont know if there is any shopping in Labadee or not but I doubt it. The place to go in Cozumel is downtown and you may have to take a taxi there depending on where your ship docks but it will be a short ride.

 

[redcrown]

In Labadee, they have a small market where locals sell there wares. Agree with agreene that Cozumel has the best bargains as long as you are willing to bargain with the merchants. Grand Cayman is more upscale and while you can bargain there, the deals are better in Cozumel. As for Ocho Rios, if you are not taking a ship's tour, I would probably stay on the ship. In the other 3 ports , imho, it is much safer and more pleasant to walk around or shop. Cab ride into Cozumel is $5.00 US.

 

[bluefish]

Please do yourself a super big favor and buy this book:
<img src=http://images.amazon.com/images/P/0764566474.01.LZZZZZZZ.jpg>

It will pay for itself on your first stop. I will give MUCH more detailed information than you will get here, with the exception of those specific tour questions, like; "is suchandsuch a good operator".

You can get the book at <a href=http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/tg/detail/-/0764566474/ref=pd_bxgy_img_2/002-2350954-1720029?v=glance&s=books>Amazon.com</a> if you want, or maybe check it out at the local library like I have done.

<img src=http://www.cruisemates.com/animated/Sunwht.gif>

 

[joebat1]

In Georgetown last week you could get an island tour for $ 15.00 US P/P. It included everything the RCI ship tour that was selling for $ 45.00 on board. The excursion included Hell, 7 mile beach, the Governors Mansion{drive by}, the turtle farm, and the rum factory as well as downtown.

Duty free shopping is available in Cozumel at the pier, or San Miquel is a short cab ride.

In Jamaica you will find cab drivers that will give you a tour for very reasonable prices.

In Labadee plan on a beach party & picnic lunch.