When selecting a cruise, I search for itineraries with ports of call I have not yet visited.  After making my decision, I research each individual stop on the route for a list of attractions to explore.  I reference travel books and magazines, online resources and compare the information to the outings the ship has to offer.  Depending on the activity, the amount of time and cost for the ship’s excursion, I make my decision to purchase the ship’s tour or reach out to a third party vendor.

So how do I ultimately decide what I will do in each port?  Here are some of the pros and cons of purchasing the shore excursion from the ship or going out on my own.

Purchasing the Ship’s Shore Excursions:

• The cruise lines have negotiated the attractions and pricing with local, reputable companies in each port, so in most cases, I can count on lower prices and quality day trips.
• The cruise ship tours will ensure that I am back in plenty of time for the ship’s departure.
• I have the option to pre-pay for the excursions or pay at the end of the cruise.
• I will meet fellow passengers on the ship making new friends.
• In the event of an emergency, the ship will be notified and further action can be taken (i.e., assist in disembarkation, notifying the next of kin).
• Shore excursions from the ship disembark prior to general disembarkation.

Going out on my own:

• The ship’s shore excursion may include a stop on their tour that does not interest me, so I can visit the attraction(s) that I prefer and may be able to add another place of interest.
• I can negotiate my own price, which could possibly be less expensive than the ship’s shore excursion.
• I have the freedom to take my time at the location I am visiting rather than cutting my visit short, as long as I can make it back to the ship on time.
• I can choose when to leave and return to the ship (i.e., to eat aboard rather than ashore)

Of course there are other considerations such as how far the ship is docked/anchored from the main attractions, whether I have seen most of the points of interest on previous cruises and what my options are within walking distance of the ship.

I hope these points will provide you with an idea of how to go about making your own decision when deciding on whether to purchase the ship’s shore excursion or going out on your own.   And should you decided to book a third-party tour or explore the port independently, be aware of when you must be back aboard the ship, not the time that the ship is departing!  Bon Voyage!

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