La Romana
If you’ve got a little extra time after arriving (or before leaving the ship), head straight to the beach! My absolute highlight here: Isla Saona.
You just grab a taxi to a beach spot on the mainland, and from there hop on a boat or catamaran. And trust me – the beach on Saona is unreal: soft white sand, turquoise water, and total chill vibes.
There are a few little beach restaurants serving fresh fish and local dishes. And if you want something extra special, pick a tour that stops at the sandbank with starfish. Seeing those beautiful creatures in the wild is pure magic.
👉 Bonus tip: In recent years, the port in La Romana has added a free pool right at the terminal. It’s a great spot to hang out if this is your embarkation or disembarkation port and you’d rather stay close by. Perfect for a chill last day before heading home.
👉 Bottom line: If you’ve got the time, don’t skip this one!
currency: Dominican Peso (DOP), 1 € ≈ 74 DOP
US dollars accepted in tourist areas, but pesos better for daily use.
crystal clear water
This is a drone shot I took from above while we stopped at the sandbank. We were all having such a good time out there – crystal-clear water, sunshine, and even a little rum to keep the vibes going.
Isla Saona
This photo was captured with my drone at Isla Sauna – the views from above were unreal.
Starfish
On our boat trip to Isla Sauna we stopped at a stunning sandbank and saw so many starfish in the shallow water. Of course, you’re not allowed to touch them – just admire their beauty where they are.
Ocho Rios (Jamaica)
Once you leave the terminal, head right and you’ll eventually hit Margaritaville Village – perfect for chilling at the end of the day, grabbing a bite, or stocking up on Jamaican chocolate.
Taxis are everywhere, but prices have gone up a lot. Still worth it for these two must-sees:
Blue Hole – waterfalls, jungle vibes, and natural pools. You can swim, jump, climb, and feel like a true explorer.
Dunn’s River Falls – the ultimate adventure. You climb up the waterfalls, hold on to ropes, scramble over the rocks, and finish at a small beach at the bottom.
💡 Pro tip: Wear sturdy water shoes. Flip-flops will be gone before you can say “Reggae.”
currency: Jamaican Dollar (JMD), 1 € ≈ 186–188 JMD.
US dollars common in resorts and hotels, less so locally.
bamboo raft
Relaxing down the river on a bamboo raft in Ocho Rios, surrounded by lush greenery and the soothing sounds of nature – pure paradise on water. At the harbor, taxi drivers also offer these rides directly,🌿🛶💦
Dunn’s River Falls
Climbing the Dunn’s River Falls in Jamaica – such an epic experience!
Blue Hole
At the Blue Hole in Jamaica, surrounded by jungle and stunning turquoise water.
Montego Bay (Jamaica)
Montego Bay isn’t really a “do-it-yourself” kind of port. Honestly, this is one of those places where I’d recommend booking an excursion.
The good news? There are actually some really beautiful tours you can join here. I once went on one where we visited a local school (so heartwarming!) and later explored cocoa gardens, learning how chocolate is made – with plenty of tasting, of course.
It was one of those days where you actually feel connected to the people and the culture. If you get the chance, definitely go for an organized trip – Montego Bay has some gems you’d otherwise miss.
currency: Jamaican Dollar (JMD), 1 € ≈ 186–188 JMD.
US dollars common in resorts and hotels, less so locally.
Excursion
On our booked tours, so much was shown and explained to us – from the hidden spots to local stories, it made the experience way more memorable.
primary school
I had the chance to visit a primary school, where we were welcomed into a classroom. The children even sang the national anthem for us—it was a very emotional experience for me.
Dragon Fruit
Dragon fruit – not only the prettiest fruit you’ll ever see, but also super refreshing in the heat. Sweet, juicy, and packed with vitamins – island life tastes like this.
Cozumel
🌴 Cozumel Adventures! 🌊
Cozumel is such a gem – full of color, charm, and adventure around every corner. There are so many ways to explore this island, depending on your vibe:
🏍️ Option 1 – Island Adventure on Wheels:
Rent a scooter or car spontaneously and just go! We took a scooter and rode around the island – stopping at ruins, cruising along stunning beaches, and pulling over whenever something caught our eye. It’s such a freeing, spontaneous way to explore and every stop feels like a mini adventure.
🚶 Option 2 – Strolling the City:
If you’re in the mood for a relaxed day, Cozumel City itself is gorgeous. Every street is colorful, full of life, and perfect for wandering. Grab an ice cream, soak up the vibes, and just enjoy the easy-going island life.
🛥️ Option 3 – Dive into History:
For history buffs, you absolutely can’t miss the Mayan ruins. They’re a bit further out, so the best way is to book a tour straight from the ship. Walking among the ruins and imagining the ancient world around you is unreal – these sites are even counted among the 7 Wonders of the World!
No matter how you explore, Cozumel is full of surprises and adventures waiting around every bend. 🌴✨
currency: Mexican Pesos (MXN), 1 € ≈ 21,8 MXN.
US dollars are accepted in tourist destinations like Cancún or the Riviera Maya, but in the rest of the country pesos are essential.
Mayan ruins
Here’s a shot of the famous Mayan ruins – definitely worth booking a tour to really get the full story!
Nacked Beach
We came for the sand, stayed for the laughs – Naked Beach, Cozumel, you’re a legend.
Cozumel City
Cozumel City – every corner is colorful and beautiful, full of life and charm!
Costa Maya
🌴 Costa Maya, Mexico – Port, Beaches & Ruins 🌊
Costa Maya is one of those cruise ports that’s huge the moment you arrive – the terminal itself is massive, and you’ll find plenty of shops, local animals wandering around, and even a small beach area with restaurants right by the port. But honestly? The real magic is outside the port.
🏖️ Beaches nearby:
One of the most beautiful spots nearby is Mahahual Beach – soft sand, turquoise water, and a super chill vibe. You can take a taxi there easily, spend the day relaxing, grab a cocktail, and soak up the sun.
🏛️ Mayan Ruins:
If you’re into history, Costa Maya is also a gateway to some amazing ruins. A short drive from the port, you can explore ancient Mayan sites that give you a real sense of the past – the perfect mix of culture and adventure.
🚤 Pro tip:
It’s best to book excursions directly from your ship.
currency: Mexican Pesos (MXN), 1 € ≈ 21,8 MXN.
US dollars are accepted in tourist destinations like Cancún or the Riviera Maya, but in the rest of the country pesos are essential.
The Voladores de Papantla
The Voladores de Papantla – a stunning Mexican tradition with people spinning down from a tall pole on ropes. Incredible to see in Costa Maya!
Cruise Terminal
Costa Maya port vibes – giant cruise ships everywhere, sometimes the biggest in the world!
Flamingo Vibes
Caught these beauties in Costa Maya – can’t get over how pink and elegant they are!
Belize
This is the big one: swimming with sharks and rays. You can book it with the ship, but honestly, it’s often cheaper and more personal if you book directly outside the terminal.
⚡ Important: Go early! Like 8 or 9 am at the latest. I only made it out at noon, and… yeah, too late. The sharks were already full and gone. I was so bummed because everyone says it’s amazing.
There’s also a helicopter tour – expensive but spectacular. Inside the terminal, there are some small local operators (the building is a bit confusing, so keep your eyes open). Mornings are the best time – if you’re too late, you’ll likely just end up at the beach, and taxis here are crazy overpriced.
👉 And if you’d rather sleep in, catch one of the early tender boats, or just want to be on the safe side with the whole tendering situation – then it’s smarter to book through the ship. Less stress, no risk of missing out.
currency: Belize Dollar (BZD), 1 € ≈ 2,35 BZD.
US dollars are officially accepted everywhere, so you can use either currency interchangeably.
Belize Vibes
Belize vibes – small, colorful little stands everywhere, so charming!
sharks and rays
Saw so many rays on our booked boat trip – seriously amazing experience!
Barbecue
In Belize, every corner had food that looked amazing – so tempting everywhere you turned!
Honduras
My perfect Honduras day goes like this: Walk out of the terminal, go left around the corner, and after 5–10 minutes you’ll see a small park on your right. Inside: sloths, monkeys, parrots – and a super long zipline.
We paid $40 for both. First, we cuddled sloths (yes, holding one is pure happiness), then flew down the mountain on the best zipline I’ve ever tried.
Honduras is also snorkel heaven. Head to West Bay Beach – tell the taxi driver “Banana Rama,” then walk all the way left until it ends. That’s the spot. Bring your own snorkel gear!
There are plenty of guides offering tours – official ones and local ones you can bargain with. I even tried horseback riding on the beach once – fun, but not a must.
currency: Lempira (HNL) 1 € ≈ 30,6 HNL
On the Bay Islands (Roatán, Utila), US dollars are commonly used, but on the mainland you’ll mostly need Lempira.
West Bay Beach
West Bay Beach – super clean, soft sand, and the water is amazing! Plus, the kayak guys sell Piña Coladas in pineapples or coconuts, so you can grab one right in the water. Paradise vibes all around!
Zipline
Ziplining in Honduras – breathtaking views and our ship waiting in the distance!
horse riding
Riding horses along the beach – pure bliss! Booked online and it couldn’t have been smoother.
Costa Rica
To be real: without a tour, this port is kinda boring. There’s a small park, a not-so-pretty town, and that’s it… unless you’re craving sushi (the restaurant at the port is surprisingly good).
But we did an amazing excursion from the ship that was absolutely worth it! First, we cruised through the rainforest by boat, spotting incredible wildlife along the way, including sloths and beautiful tropical birds. After that, we continued the adventure on the Costa Rica train, which was also stunning.
I’ve also accompanied another guest excursion on foot through the rainforest, where we saw lots of monkeys and learned a lot about the plants. That experience was amazing too.
Both excursions were truly fantastic and definitely worth every moment.
currency: Colón (CRC) 1 € ≈ 592 CRC
US dollars are widely accepted, especially in tourist areas, though you’ll often receive change in Colón.
Sloths in the rainforest
On our boat tour through the rainforest, we saw so many sloths in their natural habitat – we could hardly believe our luck!
Costa Rica Train
Through the rainforest on the Costa Rica train – nature, adventure, and epic views!
Panama
Of course, the Panama Canal is the thing here. You don’t need an expensive excursion – a taxi to the locks works fine. If you want to go all in, you can book a boat ride through the canal – pricey, but once-in-a-lifetime.
Panama City is also worth it: a cool skyline and a charming old town. Go by taxi (always negotiate!) or join a guided tour if you like more structure. Beyond that, Panama doesn’t offer much more.
currency: Colón (CRC) 1 € ≈ 592 CRC
US dollars are widely accepted, especially in tourist areas, though you’ll often receive change in Colón.
Panama City
Panama City vibes – skyscrapers, colorful buildings, and endless city energy!
Panama Canal
Visiting the Panama Canal – incredible to see these massive ships passing through and watch the engineering up close. Truly a modern wonder!”
Cartagena
This terminal is one of the best: wild parrots, flamingos, and even sloths just hanging around. Go in the morning when the animals are calm.
After that, grab a taxi to the old town (should be $10 per taxi, not per person – always negotiate!). Wander around, then check out the small park next to the city wall – monkeys and sloths love it there.
Don’t miss the artist district: colorful houses, endless street art, total Instagram heaven.
⚠️ Safety tip: Be careful with your stuff. Phone lanyards are a big no here – they’ll get snatched. And avoid the area around the fortress/monastery, it’s not the safest.
currency: Colombian Peso (COP) 1 € ≈ 4.600 COP. US dollars are rarely accepted.
Old Town
Historic, colorful, and full of life – Cartagena’s Old Town is a charming maze of cobblestone streets, colonial architecture, and vibrant culture. 🏛️🌺
Cartagena’s port
Parrots at Cartagena’s port – so colorful and lively, such a fun welcome to the city!
Artist Quarter
Colorful, vibrant, and full of creativity – Cartagena’s Artist Quarter is alive with art and inspiration. 🎨✨
Crew Insider Tips 💡
💵 Exchange money on board if you can. Otherwise, ATMs at most ports work fine.
📱 Download the Airalo app and grab an eSIM for cheap data while traveling. Just remember to switch it off when you don’t need it – data disappears faster than you think.