One of the most exciting parts of cruising is exploring the ports you visit along the way. But when you start looking at shore excursions, it can feel overwhelming.
Some excursions are absolutely worth the cost, while others can be easily done on your own for much less money.
As a travel advisor who helps clients plan cruises all the time, here are my picks for shore excursions that are usually worth it — and a few you might want to skip.
10 Shore Excursions That Are Worth the Money
1. Snorkeling Tours
If you’re visiting places like the Caribbean, Hawaii, or Mexico, snorkeling tours are often one of the best experiences.
Why they’re worth it:
- Equipment is included
- Guides know the best reef locations
- Boat access takes you to places you can’t reach from shore
You can browse snorkeling tours here:
https://www.viator.com/?pid=P00002990&uid=U00764224&mcid=58086¤cy=USD
2. Wildlife Excursions
These are incredible in destinations like:
- Alaska (whale watching)
- Iceland
- Galápagos
- Caribbean stingray encounters
Local guides know exactly where to go for the best sightings.
3. Small Group Food Tours
Food tours are one of the best ways to experience a destination.
You might get to:
- Try authentic local dishes
- Visit hidden restaurants
- Learn the culture of the area
These are often much better when booked through independent tour companies.
You can explore options here:
https://www.viator.com/?pid=P00002990&uid=U00764224&mcid=58086¤cy=USD
4. Adventure Excursions
If you’re an adrenaline lover, these are amazing:
- Zip lining through rainforests
- ATV jungle tours
- Waterfall hikes
- Cave tubing
Many cruise destinations specialize in these experiences.
5. Private City Tours
Private tours can completely transform a port visit.
Instead of a crowded bus, you get:
- A personal guide
- Flexible timing
- A customized experience
Sites like Shore Excursions Group offer excellent options:
https://www.shoreexcursionsgroup.com/?id=104411&[email protected]
6. Historical or Cultural Sites
If your cruise visits places like:
- Rome
- Athens
- Dubrovnik
- Mayan ruins in Mexico
Guided tours are incredibly helpful because you learn the history while exploring.
7. Unique Experiences You Can’t Do Alone
Some excursions simply aren’t possible without a guide.
Examples include:
- Glacier trekking
- Dog sledding
- Jungle river rafting
- Cave diving
These are often bucket-list experiences.
8. Scenic Boat Tours
Some of the best views in the world come from the water.
Examples include:
- Norwegian fjords
- Alaska glaciers
- Mediterranean coastlines
Boat tours often give you access to spectacular scenery.
9. Wine or Brewery Tours
In destinations known for wine or craft beer, these tours are fantastic.
You can enjoy:
- Local tastings
- Vineyard visits
- Transportation included
No need to worry about driving!
10. Local Cultural Workshops
Some excursions allow you to truly immerse yourself in the destination.
Examples include:
- Cooking classes
- Traditional dance experiences
- Local craft workshops
These are often some of the most memorable activities.
5 Cruise Excursions You Might Want to Skip
1. Basic Beach Transfers
Cruise lines often charge a lot just to take you to a beach.
Instead, you can often:
- Take a taxi
- Walk
- Visit a nearby beach club
2. “Shopping Tours”
These are often just transportation to tourist shops that pay commissions.
Exploring on your own can be much more fun.
3. Bus-Only City Tours
If the excursion is mostly sitting on a bus, you might not experience much of the destination.
Walking tours or small group tours are often better.
4. Extremely Short Excursions
Some tours last less than an hour but still cost a lot.
These can sometimes be done independently for much cheaper.
5. Overcrowded Group Tours
Large tours with 40–50 people can feel rushed and impersonal.
Smaller tours often create a much better experience.
Where to Find Great Cruise Excursions
Two places I recommend my cruise clients check before booking excursions are:
🌎 Viator
Browse tours worldwide here:
https://www.viator.com/?pid=P00002990&uid=U00764224&mcid=58086¤cy=USD
Viator offers thousands of tours including private experiences and small group excursions.
🚢 Shore Excursions Group
Explore cruise-friendly tours here:
https://www.shoreexcursionsgroup.com/?id=104411&[email protected]
Many of their tours are designed specifically for cruise schedules.
My Final Cruise Excursion Tip
Not every port needs a tour.
Sometimes the best cruise memories come from:
- Wandering the port town
- Finding a local café
- Relaxing on a beach
- Exploring markets
Cruising is about experiencing destinations in a way that feels fun and relaxed for you.
Need Help Planning Your Cruise?
If you’re planning a cruise and want help choosing the best excursions, I’d love to help you plan the perfect itinerary.
And if you’re ready to explore tours now, start here:
Viator:
https://www.viator.com/?pid=P00002990&uid=U00764224&mcid=58086¤cy=USD
Shore Excursions Group:
https://www.shoreexcursionsgroup.com/?id=104411&[email protected]
Want to grab my free Cruise Essentials Packing List? Head here.
