I'm going to Mexican Riveria on Mar 31. We are a family of 4, and it is so expensive to book 1 tour for every port. Any advice? Should we just take a cab to the famous destinations? I did some research and found places that we want to go. Thanks alot.

Booking your own excurions does save money...But, the only problem is you have no guarantees that you will get back to the ship in time. Many people do their own and have no problems, but I've seen people jumping up and down at the end of the pier as the ship pulls out....so just plan on getting back in time, the ship doesn't wait for people that book their own excursions....My feeling is that the cruiseline has a relationship with the vendors that they use and if there are any problems getting back, the ship will wait for you. Hope this doesn't scare you from taking your side trips....Just my opinion after 19 cruises....

Bob E

What if all I want to do is to go a calm quiet beach? I have been to Mexico cities and already seen a bit of cultures. This time with the kids, I just want to swim and relax on the beach. The cruise has only the activity shore excursion, like snorkel which I don t know how to anywaỵ So, that is the reason why I dont want to waste money on cruise tour, but rather hopping on cab or boat to get to the beach. Is it safe to do that? Thnks for your advices.

Hi JanN1, and welcome to cruise-chat.com!

From the information you've given, it sounds like you're going on Norwegian Star to Acapulco, Zihuatanejo/Ixtapa, Puerto Vallarta, and Cabo San Lucas. Is that correct?

We've been to two of these ports (PV and Cabo San Lucas). Of these, we went to a beach in Cabo San Lucas, but that was through a cruiseline tour, as it was our first visit. What are some of the places you've decided on visiting?