Cruising offers a unique opportunity to visit multiple destinations in a single trip, but the time you have in each port is often limited. To make the most of your visit, shore excursions are the perfect way to explore, learn, and enjoy everything the destination has to offer. Whether you're an adrenaline junkie or someone who enjoys a leisurely day on the beach, planning your shore excursions ahead and wisely can ensure you have a fulfilling experience without feeling rushed. In this guide, we’ll share essential tips on how to plan the best shore excursions for your next cruise.

1. Understand Your Port Schedule

Before diving into the world of shore excursions, the first step is knowing how much time you’ll have in port. Cruise ships typically dock in each location for anywhere between six to twelve hours and sometimes overnight, but this can vary. Take note of the time your ship arrives and departs from each port, and factor in any potential delays.

Tip: Always allow extra time to return to the ship. Many cruise lines recommend returning to the ship at least 30 minutes before departure, bigger cruise ships usually 1 hour before as ports can be busy and lines at security may take longer than expected.

2. Plan Based on Your Interests

Shore excursions range from action-packed adventures to laid-back explorations, so think about what activities interest you most. Here are some options to consider:

Tip: Don’t try to pack too much into one day. If you want to fully enjoy each excursion, aim for one primary activity per port, rather than trying to squeeze multiple excursions into a single day.

3. Book Excursions Early

While it’s tempting to book your shore excursions on the day of your arrival at the port, booking ahead can have significant benefits. Popular excursions, such as swimming with dolphins or exploring ancient ruins, can fill up quickly. Securing your spot ahead of time ensures you won’t miss out on your top choice.

Tip: Many cruise lines offer an online platform where you can book excursions before your sailing. Take advantage of these booking tools to select the best options for your cruise.

4. Research Independent Shore Excursion Providers

While booking through the cruise line is convenient, consider exploring independent excursion providers for a more personalized experience. Cruiseworld partners with top-rated independent excursion providers to offer tours at up to 40% cheaper than the cruise line, with the added benefit of smaller group sizes and unique itineraries. These independent providers often deliver a more intimate and tailored experience, with the flexibility to explore beyond the typical cruise offerings. Plus, they guarantee timely returns to the ship, ensuring you won't miss your departure. However, always be sure to check the tour schedule and confirm the return times to avoid any stress on your adventure.

Tip: Look for independent tours that have good reviews on platforms like TripAdvisor or Trustpilot, and double-check that they offer a "guarantee return to ship" policy if your excursion runs late.

5. Factor in Travel Time to and from the Port

When selecting shore excursions, don’t forget to account for travel time between the port and the activity location. For example, if you’re interested in visiting a remote beach or historical site, the excursion might include a 30-minute or longer drive. Be sure to confirm how long the journey will take and if it's worth it based on your available time in port.

Tip: If you have limited time, consider staying closer to the port or choosing activities that are within easy walking distance, such as exploring the local town or visiting nearby beaches.

6. Choose Flexible or Private Excursions

If you’re someone who doesn’t like being tied down to a fixed schedule or wants a more personalized experience, consider booking flexible or private excursions. With these options, you can set your own pace, customize your itinerary, and enjoy a more intimate experience without the crowd.

Tip: Private excursions can be more expensive, but they can also provide better value for those seeking a more tailored experience, especially for families or small groups.

7. Be Culturally Aware and Pack Smart

When planning shore excursions, consider both local customs and your packing needs. Respect cultural norms, dress codes, and practices like tipping, especially when visiting sacred sites or local villages. At the same time, pack appropriately for the activity—sunscreen, water shoes, swimwear, and a small daypack with essentials like water and a camera. For water excursions, bring a waterproof bag to protect your valuables, ensuring you’re both prepared and respectful throughout your adventure.

8. Be Ready for Unexpected Delays

Sometimes, despite our best efforts, things don't go according to plan. Weather conditions, transportation delays, or other unforeseen factors may cause excursions to run late or get canceled. In such cases, it’s important to stay flexible and maintain a positive attitude.

Tip: Always have a backup plan or a list of things you can do near the port in case your original excursion gets delayed or canceled.

Conclusion

Shore excursions are a fantastic way to make the most of your cruise vacation, offering opportunities to discover new cultures, landscapes, and experiences. By planning ahead, considering your interests, and choosing the right excursions, you can ensure that you have an unforgettable time in each port. Remember to stay flexible, research your options, and take into account the logistics of each destination so you can maximize your time ashore.

Happy cruising and adventuring!

Cruising with kids can be an unforgettable adventure for the whole family, combining relaxation, fun, and exploration all in one package. Many cruise lines offer fantastic amenities, activities, and entertainment specifically designed to keep little ones (and their parents) happy. Whether your kids are toddlers or teens, there’s a perfect ship and itinerary for your family.

Here are the top 5 family-friendly cruises you should consider for your next getaway!

1. Disney Cruise Line: A World of Wonder for Kids and Families

Best for: Families with young children, Disney fans, and anyone looking for a magical experience.

Why it’s great: Disney Cruise Line is the ultimate family-friendly cruise experience, offering a blend of immersive entertainment, themed activities, and exceptional service. Disney’s ships—like the Disney Dream and Disney Fantasy—are packed with character meet-and-greets, themed dining, and kids' clubs. Disney cruises bring the magic of Disney to life on board.

Activities for Kids & Families:

Oceaneer Club: A space where kids can immerse themselves in adventures like a Pixie Hollow play area, or engage in Star Wars. The club is also home to the Marvel Super Hero Academy, where kids can channel their inner superhero

Oceaneer Lab: This area offers fun science experiments, crafting activities, and hands-on games. Kids can enjoy everything from Disney Infinity video games to art and crafts projects inspired by their favorite Disney films.

Broadway style shows: Watch spectacular performances featuring beloved Disney characters like "Frozen" , "The Little Mermaid", "Beauty & The Beast", and "Disney’s Aladdin".

Themed Dining: Enjoy meals in fun, themed restaurants such as Animator’s Palate, where the walls come to life with animation, A Frozen Dining Adventure, Rapunzel’s Royal Table, Tiana’s Place: Inspired by The Princess and the Frog, which can be found on all Disney cruise ships including Disney Treasure, Disney wish, Disney wonder.

Private Island: Castaway Cay is Disney’s private island in the Bahamas, featuring water play areas, family-friendly beaches, and fun excursions like snorkeling and bike rides

Pirate Night Party

Aboard every Disney Cruise, guests enjoy the exciting Pirate Night—a deck party full of music, dancing, and fun. It’s a high-energy evening where the whole family can dress up like pirates and join in the fun

Disney Character Meet-and-Greet: No Disney cruise is complete without meeting some of your favorite characters! From Mickey and Minnie to Elsa and Buzz Lightyear, families can get up close and personal with the characters during scheduled meet-and-greet sessions throughout the cruise. The experience is magical for children (and adults) who want to snap a photo or get an autograph. Why families love it: The onboard experience is designed for kids but ensures the parents can also enjoy some relaxation time, whether it's by the adult-only pool or at the spa. Keep in mind all these shows and activities are included in the cruise fare.

2. Royal Caribbean International: Thrills for Kids of All Ages

Best for: Families with active kids and thrill-seeking teens.

Why it’s great: Royal Caribbean is a favourite amonth families for its adventure and dynamic onboard offerings. Ships like the Oasis of the Seas and Symphony of the Seas feature everything from surf simulators to ice skating rinks and rock climbing walls. Royal Caribbean caters to families with diverse activity levels, from relaxed days at sea to high-energy, action-packed adventures.

Highlights for Kids & Families:

Adventure Ocean: A comprehensive kids' club for ages 3 to 17 with everything from arts and crafts to treasure hunts and video games. Feautre activities such as science experiments, talent shows, and educational programs

FlowRider Surf Simulator: Teens and tweens can try their hand at surfing or boogie boarding on the ship’s surf simulator. can be found on most oasis class ships like Odyssey of the seas, Allure of the seas, Ovation of the Seas and Utopia of the Seas

Family Fun Attractions: The ships feature waterslides, rock climbing wall, a carousel, a mini-golf course, and even an escape room!

Kids Dining Options: Specialized menus for kids with healthy and tasty meals that appeal to younger tastes.

3. Carnival Cruise Line: Fun, Fun, Fun for the Whole Family

Best for: Families who want a laid-back cruise filled with fun, energy, and affordability.

Why it’s great: Carnival is often referred to as the “Fun Ships,” and for a good reason—this cruise line is packed with playful activities and family-oriented events. The Carnival Horizon and Carnival Panorama are top choices for families looking for a lively experience. The Carnival fleet includes waterparks, youth clubs, and family entertainment that ensures everyone stays engaged.

Top activities for kids:

Camp Ocean: This fun kids’ club is divided into age groups (2-5, 6-8, and 9-11) and offers themed activities like scavenger hunts and talent shows.

WaterWorks Waterpark: Carnival’s ships feature onboard waterparks with slides, water cannons, and splash zones, perfect for cooling off while having a blast.

Family & Teens Game Centre - This include a mini golf, basketball, pickel ball , volley ball, ziplines and ropes course

Seuss at Sea: In partnership with Dr. Seuss, Carnival offers a unique character breakfast and storytime sessions that bring beloved characters like The Cat in the Hat to life.

Space Cruisers : Kids ages 2–11 can explore the cosmos — at sea! — with NASA-inspired activities, in this unique program developed in partnership with Kennedy Space Center

Bolt Roller Coaster: If you are a thrill seeker, Meet BOLT®: the fastest — and first! — rollercoaster at sea Strap in and zoom your motorcycle-style speed machine around an open-air course high, high above sea level, Bolt can be found on Carnival Mardi Gras and Carnival Jubileee Why families love it: With its casual vibe and plenty of activities for all ages, Carnival is one of the most family-friendly cruise lines without breaking the bank. The entertainment is fun, and the meals are family-approved!

4. Norwegian Cruise Line: Ultimate Family Fun at Sea

Best for: Families who want flexibility and variety in their cruise experience.

Why it’s great: Norwegian Cruise Line is perfect for families who want to combine fun activities with a relaxed, flexible schedule. Their NCL Breakaway and Joy ships offer a wide range of family-friendly activities, from water parks to family-friendly Broadway shows. The "freestyle cruising" experience allows families to create their own itinerary, making it a great choice for those who prefer a more laid-back schedule.

Top activities for kids:

Splash Academy: This kids' club offers age-specific activities, including arts and crafts, sports, and games. Kids ages 6 months to 12 years will find a fun-filled experience here.

Aquaparks: Norwegian ships feature massive water parks with slides, splash zones, and pools—perfect for cooling off and having fun in the sun. Ready to slide this fast? Dare to experience The Drop, the first free-fall dry slide in the world or The Rush Norwegian Viva's newest slides are the fastest at sea.

Laser Tag & Mini Golf: Teens will love the onboard laser tag arena, while the entire family can enjoy a round of mini-golf with ocean views.

Race track at Sea : Norwegian cruiseline boast the longest race tracks at sea, you can hit speeds up to 30 miles per hour as you take in the ocean view

on their first three-level race track at sea. Available on Norwegian Viva, NCL Joy, Norwegian Bliss

Galaxy Pavilion: The Galaxy Pavilion on ships like Norwegian PRIMA is a high-tech interactive entertainment space. It’s packed with virtual reality games, simulators, and other cutting-edge experiences. Teens and older kids will have a blast racing cars, battling in virtual space, or experiencing thrilling motion simulators. Also avaialble on Norwegian Viva, NCL Joy, Norwegian Encore 

Why families love it: Norwegian’s flexibility in dining times and the ability to mix adventure with relaxation is a hit for families with varying schedules and interests. The Galaxy Pavilion provides the perfect blend of futuristic fun, while the variety of other activities keeps everyone in the family entertained

5. MSC Cruises: A World of Fun for Families

Best for: Families looking for a mix of European flair and family-friendly fun.

Why it’s great: MSC Cruises is known for its modern ships and innovative features. With the family-focused MSC Seashore, MSC Meraviglia, and MSC Bellissima, the line offers a variety of activities that appeal to both children and parents alike. The line also emphasizes Italian-inspired elegance while ensuring fun and adventure are always top of mind.

Top activities for kids:

When it comes to cruising with kids, these cruise lines go above and beyond to create unforgettable family experiences. Whether you're looking for magical character meet-and-greets with Disney, thrilling adventures with Royal Caribbean, or flexible, fun-filled days with Norwegian, there’s something for every family to enjoy. So, pack your bags, grab your little explorers, and get ready to set sail on a family vacation you’ll never forget!

Are you ready to take the family on an exciting cruise? Which cruise line do you think would be the best fit for your family? Let us know in the comments below!