My husband and I are going on our first cruise for our 10 yr. anniversary. Explorer of the seas 3-8-03. Ports of call are: 1.San Juan 2.Philipsburg,St Maarten. 3.Charlotte Amalie,St. Thomas. 4. Nassau, Bahamas.
Any recommendations on good shore excursions? Any that you definately think are a waste?
We were thinking about the biolumenescent kayak thing, the B.O.B. snorkeling, bike rides, dolphin encounter.... Anyone done any of these?
Looking for all suggestions. We really want to make the most of this vacation as we have three young boys and never get any time to ourselves. LOL!
Thanks for any help.
Oh yeah... can you buy these excursions cheaper from the locals or is it better to pre-book them through the cruise line????
-Laura

San Juan - I did the Old San Juan City/Bacardi Factory Tour. I was kind of disappointed with the city tour part because the only place we stopped to sight see was the fort El Morro. The Bacardi factory tour was really interesting.

St. Thomas - Here, I didn't do much. I took the tram up Paradise Point and enjoyed the view for an hour or so and then caught a cab downtown to go shopping. Went shopping at the mall next to the pier on the way back. In my opinion, the ships could spend some more time in St. Thomas. I could easily take up a day and a half here if the cruise lines would ever do this.

Nassau - I had been here several years ago on my first cruise. If this is your first time, take a city tour. It's interesting and takes in some nice sights. The Dolphin Encounter is kind of a waste of money but was a really cool experience. I say a waste of money in that I don't know now that it was worth $89 but it's something I can't do at home. Don't expect to actually swim with the dolphins because is different. The Encounter - you stand on a platform and get to pet, kiss, dance, etc. with the dolphin but you are only in waist deep water. Depending on the age of your children, they might really enjoy this.

I appreciate the info.
My husband and I are going alone. The boys are staying home. Wheeeee!!! That means we are free to do any of the excursions.
I just want to make sure we pick good ones.
-Laura