Belize City and Belize can be Dangerous is it Safe to get off The Cruise Ship in Belize and Stay at Cruise Port Only and look in Gift Shops at Cruise Ports Then go Back on Cruise Ship just not go into the Town???? Do They have Alot of Gift Shops at Belize Cruise Port Pier?????
When docked in Ensenada, we hired a local to take us to Valle De Guadalupe…the Napa of Mexico for some wine tasting. Over 200 wineries, some huge and absolutely beautiful and some mom and pop cool places. It’s 45 minutes drive from the cruise port to the valley and made for a wonderful day. By the way, we found our tour guide through trip advisor and he was wonderful.
Staying on the ship while in port is the most peaceful time you can have,even the crew is happier and you get better pours at the bar,just tip the bartender well after your first drink..
About to the only islands I enjoy going ashore in the Caribbean are the Dutch islands and Grand Cayman. My purpose when booking Caribbean cruises is to enjoy the warm weather, the balcony, especially at sea and the food.
We get off when we go to Belize. Cave tubing is a blast but depends on weather. Going to Altun Ha Mayan temple is great but a very long bus ride. Always take the ship excursion in Belize to avoid missing the ship. Another point is to go to Belize in December or January if you do a temple excursion, it’s a hot trip, so choose a time when it’s most likely to be cooler. We went for Christmas a few years ago and weather was glorious. Not hot at all, but your mileage may vary for sure.
I like Costa Maya!!! I have been there several times even before the huge pool was built. You forgot there is some Mayan Pyramids that are awesome!!!! Subscribed today! 😊
We walk out the port in Progresso and talk to the guy on the right at the excursion/taxi stand. We have done the salt flats, flamingo, mayan ruins and beach break. It is a great excursion and the taxi driver handles the payment into the mayan ruins and beach area. No one hassles you and the beach is beautiful! Done this twice now and it was so much fun.
i love Grand Turk!! i was just there a few days ago and we rented a golf cart and explored the island (its only 6mi by 2mi). You can drive to beach and have the whole place to yourself to do whatever you want. Water is some of the prettiest ive been to in the Caribbean!
Also shocked about Gran Turk. I loved it. We rented a golf cart for the day and drove around and went to the far side of the island. Absolutely beautiful water. Lots to see there.
I can somewhat agree on Belize. Best thing was the tender ride over there and the coconut with the rum drink. Did not feel safe going outside the port area. Very pushy vendors. Food was good but everyone who ate became sick later.
I agree with you 100%. I'm a long time cruiser and those ports are lousy in my book. If we get off the ship it's just to walk around the port area and feel our land legs.
Do not agree about Grand Turk, been there many times on our cruises and absolutely love the beach, the water is beautiful and even went on a snorkeling excursion that so fun and beautiful!!!
I am not an expert cruiser but just my opinion if you have seen one caribbean island then you have seen them all. Tortola is nice and seven mile beach in Grand Cayman is great along with Sting Ray Island but for the most part you can get off and wander around the port area alittle. It seems all shore excursions have more than doubled in price everywhere now and most are just not worth spending so much money. Just say'n.
After 6 times visiting Encinada, on the 7th time I decided it was time to just stay on the ship. There is some interesting shopping, but you get hounded constantly to either give money or buy something and I’ve finally had enough! Thanks for the video! :)
I’m blessed to live and work in the Turks and Caicos Islands. Mostly Providenciales. But I fly over to GDT for work. It’s like travelling to the countryside - Provo being the city. If you only go to Margaritaville, you are not seeing the island. The pace of life is slow. The bars are great - Sandbar and The Turks Head Inn are my favourites when I’m there. I hope that they eventually restore the US base there, because that will attract tourists. It has great beaches - not crowded at all. Just a golf cart drive away. And you’ll get to see wild donkeys and the occasional horse!
Great video. We were just at Costa Maya last week and really enjoyed Krazy Lobster. The port area was way too busy even with only 2 Carnival ships there that day. Icon of the Seas did not stay due to the windy weather. I'd also avoid all other ports mentioned.
We always stay on the ship when going to Victoria Canada generally getting there late and leaving late a lot of things are closed not much to do there.
I love Belize and Jamaica. I find the people of both of these places friendly and helpful. I have never felt unsafe at either. I enjoy Progressi because it is more old Mexico and not the over developed ports like Cozumel. I always get off the ship at Freeport because there are artisan craftsman that we love to visit I am looking forward to get to Nassau again, simply because of the newly constructed port. I really think that everyone should visit each port at leat once and make up their own minds. Another thing is they should research the country, history, etc so they aren't clueless (like the lady I met on a recent cruise to Belize who was really unset that she had learned Spanish and no one spoke Spanish at the port😂). As for the "aggressive vendors, you need to realize that this is how they support their families. If you don't want to purchase, a polite but firm, no thank you works for me.
I gotta say, we still enjoy getting off the cruise at every port, but maybe in time we will decide to stay on board one of these times. Good job with the video Jamie!
I've been to all the ports Jamie's audience voted on. I actually liked Progreso when I visited last year. I went to Merida, a nearby big city with plenty of things to see and do.
St. Lucia is a mixed blessing. There definitely are beautiful beaches and places to see, but avoid the downtown: lots of beggars, shady characters and soldiers with guns. A really scary place that had the group of us head back to the ship within five minutes.
So glad I was done with the Caribbean 20 years ago...saw just about every Island. I have no desire to ever go back... Cruising in the Mediterranean and Northern Europe is soooo much more interesting and beautiful...so much to see and do.
That's was really interesting. I used to go to Ochos Rios in 1996 and it wasn't too safe then! I always loved cruising the Caribbean. Looks like paradise to us! Cheers 🍻
We love Belize. Some of our favorite excursions have happened there. We usually stay on the ship in most of the eastern Caribbean ports as most are the same. We enjoy the western itineraries more, seems like there is more adventure.
I think you need to consider that Ensenada is on the port list as a means to be compliant to the Jones act. I am not an attorney, but as I understand it, this act requires that non-US registered ships starting and ending in American ports must visit at least one foreign port before returning. In other words, you can’t have round-trip with just American ports unless the ship is US registered. Most round-trip cruises from West Coast ports, such as Los Angeles, stop in Ensenada for this purpose.
It certainly does satisfy the Jones Act. We've been there on shorter cruise with just Ensenda and Catalina, but also longer ones that continue to Cabo. Thanks for watching!!!
Shocked Grand Turk is on the list. Such a beautiful beach that's steps away. One of my favorites. La Romana has improved the port recently. Added a nice pool with swim up bar. Worth at least 1/2 the day off ship.
There is now a purpose built resort area in La Romana owned by Carnival right next to the Dock. We walked into La Romana it did not feel dangerous (Dec 2023)
I am an advocate for getting off at each port at least once. You make the call after that. Belize I will stay on the ship until the new port is complete. Half Moon and Princess Cay I will stay on the ship. Progresso I will stay on and I agree with Costa Maya. I may get off at Costa Maya since it's been 10 years since i've been there.
Cartagena is a one time stop but only with a ship tour. Costa Maya is a good place to go on a tour of the Mayan ruins, which are an hour bus ride away. I’d never get off in Jamaica again. Dunnes Falls is a one timer too.
We did Cartagena visit 2 weeks ago and once we left the ship and cruise terminal, we called an uber to drop us to the city center and it was well worth it. There were 2 ships on that day and there was police on every corner, so we did not felt unsafe at all and we enjoyed the walled city a lot! We were also approached by freestyle rappers and they were really so cool and funny. We gave them a couple of dollars, because at least they amused us. It was much better than taking a picture with the Colombian women dressed in colorful dress. We always avoided them, because who would like to take a picture with someone who demands money then :D On the same cruise we also did Falmouth, Jamaica and it was really nice place to visit. The atmosphere was really nice, we bought a trip with cruise company and the only thing we did not like when we visited the Blue hole were loads of people where the tour guides even did not let us to take a quick picture, because he wanted these tourists to move smoothly, so more can come later. It was quite annoying, but we felt very safe there.
I have been on a a number of cruises before and I understand a lot of these complaints or concerns. Belize is however something I don’t understand. Maybe it’s just me but the cruise lines offer great excursions there. Last time I was there we went cave tubing and zip lining and it was one of the best excursions I’ve ever done. Maybe it was more memorable because our tire blew out. One port I really don’t like is Mazatlan. It’s an industrial port and there are numerous safety concerns.
Just got off a ship that set sail from Laromana. They have just finished rebuilding the port stop there. Lots of local venders and a pool area. Excursions would have to be pre arranged and expect some transit time.
Agree on all the ports you listed. The only port you may want to look at again is Belize. Only because there is a 2 hour each way trip to the Mayan ruins on the Guatemala border at Xuanatunich. It was a hard bus ride but the climb up the pyramid was great. You look right into Guatemala. Ensenada might be okay if you take a wine country tour. But that's it.
Agree that some of the best things, you have to travel to get to, but I think that long bus ride each way scares off cruisers. Thanks for watching John!!!
Hey Jaime, hope you and yours are all doing well. The Port of Costa Maya has added a new pool and bar area in the back where you exit the Cruise Port to grab your taxi or Golf cart cart. Some positive comments have been posted about this new area, because lots of passengers just stay in the front main area thus little congestion. I know you and Sharon weren't happy with your experience at Crazy Lobster, but a few recent videos on RUclips have shown good to very good satisfaction. Maybe a change in management. I personally did the excursion to Atlantis with Carnival to the huge enclosed Marina wildlife and beach getaway, which I enjoyed with R/T shuttle, which I enjoyed. Thanks in advance, keep up the great work. 😎⛹️♀️🚴♂️🤸♂️
Going to give some tips in the comments cause people tend to not go very far which seems to be the problem here. Ensenada town isn't great. The Valle de Guadaloupe is the best hidden gem in the world of wine. Book a tour to the wineries and get away from just California wine. Progresso - When you take the shuttle from the ship to the bus station, ask for a ticket on the next bus to Merida. It's a couple dollars, takes just under an hour, and your in a fascinating and authentic Mexican city that is the capital of Yucatan. Costa Maya - Not for everyone cause you need a certification, but for those that are ignore the not so great beaches and get a boat to take you out deeper for scuba diving. Consider a snorkeling tour if your not certified. The reefs are amazing there since they don't get the traffic of Cozumel or Cancun
I spent 3 week in Mahahual 12 years ago to do some diving on Banco Chinchurro,it's off limit to tourist and only 10 divers per day can dive the reefs.The island has a Marine University research center owned by Spain..only fishing families live on the Island...after we finished our dives we would go buy 3 lb lobsters for $9.00 each,take them back to a restaurant in Mahahual and paid them $10.00 to grill and served with fries and garlic butter.Mahahual(Costa Maya)is the cruise port is a big drug area,we had to be inside our hotel after dark and nothing is open,except for a small local bar that gets very rowdy.
I agree with you about Costa Maya. It's always so crowded. I am adding Cozumel to this list. I know this is controversial, but I tend to stay on the ship at this port.
1st time, my wife & I walked to the airport, from the port, (2-3 miles). Not much to see! Then, last time that we were there, we went into the small town! Also, not much there! Stay with the Margaritaville pools or beaches!
It's been a long time since I've been to Jamaica but I wouldn't get off there again. Even with a excursion I felt hassled and unsafe, and the disparity between the poor and the rich is so incredibly depressing.
In LaRomana last year and loved the tour to Las Catalinas island. A magnificent beach with an international crowd. No real development and a true island vibe.
Never been to Ensenada. Or Jamaica. But all the rest I love going to. I get off everywhere. Enjoy the sights people culture. My niche may be different than most folks. But I absolutely enjoy the Caribbean.
We got off in Nassau two weeks ago. Check out the new port shopping area. Also, yes the vendors are pushy there but not too bad compared to other ports. We don’t go for a lot of beach excursions, we enjoy history, culture and food or local drinks, wineries, brewery or distillers and so forth. So it depends on your interests too.
I agree with your list. I would add Trinidad, and you don't even have to get off the ship to be annoyed there. They were blasting reggae music at 7am right on the dock 50 feet from the ship. Good luck sleeping in with a speaker thumping outside your window. This went on all day. For me the ship is the destination. I would be fine if they just went out and cruised around and did not stop anywhere.
T&T is the worst,just last week a cpl from a cruise got mugged by a 14 yo,good thing the locals got hold of him and held him for the police.I was born in Trinidad,left there in 1975 when it was still paradise.I refuse to go back for a visit..
@@skeletor9121 The best beach in Tobago(Pigeon Point) is unswimmable due to an oil spill..Scarborough where the port is,has nothing to do..I don't know why cruises stop there.
@@neilcharles2520 I saw the oil spill right next to the cruise port. It’s quite a ways away from Pigeon Point beach which is where we went and it was over crowded with zero umbrellas for rent. Wasn’t the best excursion experience.
@@skeletor9121 You should have kept walking past the first beach area,there is another area where the locals hang out,and wind surfing and other water sports..restaurant and bar,shower etc with no charge...sorry you did not enjoy and should have done a little more research.I did a lot of scuba diving in my teens on Tobago.You could have gone to Store Bay and eat some local food,lots of beach unbrellas and chairs along with a bar.
San Juan and Puerto Vallarta are my two FAVORITE ports in the Caribbean or Mexico. I find most of the islands in the Caribbean boring once you’ve seen them. They all are pretty much the same.
I understand your point of view - and agree so we do not cruise the Caribbean any more. There is a luxury in reaching a time in life where we have the time to travel farther and explore other places.
Going to Nassau in 3 weeks and will go to the new port area, walk around for an hour and get back on the ship to enjoy. Quite frankly I’m really sick of being haggled to buy stuff. if they would leave me alone for two seconds I would buy some stuff to help them out.
I agree on Ensenada. I use to drive once in a while to Ensenada as a young man and have a good time. But other than drinking and eating there isn't much to do. Nassau we visited in January for the first time. We walked 8 miles and that was good day sightseeing the town. Didn't feel unsafe, lots of vendors and cab drivers stopping us.... but probably will not do it again.
I look forward to the Carribean ports. I enjoy talking to the people and learning about their culture. When we do Euroean ports, we usually don't het off the ship. We find the people and attractions to be boring and the locals tend to be a bit....non welcoming to those who don't look like them.
I would get off and walk around the port area as long as it wasn't an industrial port. I feel I'm still in the cruise ship bubble and I can look around. I haven't gotten off in Nassau my last few cruises but I would do it next time just to look around the new port area they've created.
I've been to some of these ports and I really can't agree with your view. But then again I didn't book a cruise because I wanted to stay on the ship. I enjoy seeing the towns either by taking excursions or walking around on my own. One of my favorites is Jamaica.
La. Romana,, dominican republic , we took the tourist train back to port and had a police escort to port, we had the police/security telling us to go back recommend us to go back politely
I've been off at most, not LaRomana and Progresso, of them and personally, never had an issue. I'm with the rest on Grand Turk, my father thinks I'm crazy. Maybe do the golf cart excursion I saw Dee and Jay do, I believe it was them. Belize we did Altun Ha ruins, I'd go back to see how it changed. Costa Maya we've only been twice.
Costa Maya the beach vendors were relentless. The only way to get away from them was to go in the water. Couldn't get a nap on the beach over and over badgering me to get a massage. One i had to tell stop touching me
Been to most of the Caribbean ports in my 35+ years of cruising. If asked to describe the differences in topography or culture between Martinique, St. Lucia or St. Vincent, I wouldn’t be able to answer.
![BLACK BAG - Official Trailer [HD] - Only in Theaters March 14](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/Du0Xp8WX_7I/mqdefault.jpg)
![Felix "Unfair" | [Stray Kids : SKZ-PLAYER]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/Oswujxm2Ag0/mqdefault.jpg)
Loving everyone's feedback on these ports!!!
Belize City and Belize can be Dangerous is it Safe to get off The Cruise Ship in Belize and Stay at Cruise Port Only and look in Gift Shops at Cruise Ports Then go Back on Cruise Ship just not go into the Town????
Do They have Alot of Gift Shops at Belize Cruise Port Pier?????
I stay on the ship in most ports. I have cruised many times and just enjoy being on the ship with no crowds.
When docked in Ensenada, we hired a local to take us to Valle De Guadalupe…the Napa of Mexico for some wine tasting. Over 200 wineries, some huge and absolutely beautiful and some mom and pop cool places. It’s 45 minutes drive from the cruise port to the valley and made for a wonderful day. By the way, we found our tour guide through trip advisor and he was wonderful.
I absolutely agree. I loved the tour I took to wineries. Undiscovered jewel.
We did this too. Absolutely loved it.
Had my fav excursion in Ensenada, did a winery tour with 3 stops and wine at each one.
Shocked at Grand Turk being on the list. We always have a great time there and love the water. We love Grand Turk.
I agree with some of those which I've been to such as Nassau and Ensenada.
Staying on the ship while in port is the most peaceful time you can have,even the crew is happier and you get better pours at the bar,just tip the bartender well after your first drink..
Excellent point!! Thanks for watching!!!
Maybe Bahamas and Jamaica charge the cruise lines less than other ports, so they save money by stopping there.
About to the only islands I enjoy going ashore in the Caribbean are the Dutch islands and Grand Cayman. My purpose when booking Caribbean cruises is to enjoy the warm weather, the balcony, especially at sea and the food.
We get off when we go to Belize. Cave tubing is a blast but depends on weather. Going to Altun Ha Mayan temple is great but a very long bus ride. Always take the ship excursion in Belize to avoid missing the ship. Another point is to go to Belize in December or January if you do a temple excursion, it’s a hot trip, so choose a time when it’s most likely to be cooler. We went for Christmas a few years ago and weather was glorious. Not hot at all, but your mileage may vary for sure.
I also did the ATV in Grand Turcks and it was awesome had no problems at all.
I like Costa Maya!!! I have been there several times even before the huge pool was built. You forgot there is some Mayan Pyramids that are awesome!!!! Subscribed today! 😊
Thanks bebreyes4766!!!
Jaimie…. You are getting to be the most informative person on the subject of cruising.
Wow!! Thanks Stevenz!!!
We walk out the port in Progresso and talk to the guy on the right at the excursion/taxi stand. We have done the salt flats, flamingo, mayan ruins and beach break. It is a great excursion and the taxi driver handles the payment into the mayan ruins and beach area. No one hassles you and the beach is beautiful! Done this twice now and it was so much fun.
i love Grand Turk!! i was just there a few days ago and we rented a golf cart and explored the island (its only 6mi by 2mi). You can drive to beach and have the whole place to yourself to do whatever you want. Water is some of the prettiest ive been to in the Caribbean!
Exactly. The perfect thing to do.
Also shocked about Gran Turk. I loved it. We rented a golf cart for the day and drove around and went to the far side of the island. Absolutely beautiful water. Lots to see there.
True, the water is fantastic!!! Thanks for watching, Judith!!!
just saw you comment and I said the same as you did! lol
I can somewhat agree on Belize. Best thing was the tender ride over there and the coconut with the rum drink. Did not feel safe going outside the port area. Very pushy vendors. Food was good but everyone who ate became sick later.
I agree with you 100%. I'm a long time cruiser and those ports are lousy in my book. If we get off the ship it's just to walk around the port area and feel our land legs.
Do not agree about Grand Turk, been there many times on our cruises and absolutely love the beach, the water is beautiful and even went on a snorkeling excursion that so fun and beautiful!!!
Tortola, British Virgin Islands. When every building in the port has bars on the windows, it tells you are not in a safe area.
I am not an expert cruiser but just my opinion if you have seen one caribbean island then you have seen them all. Tortola is nice and seven mile beach in Grand Cayman is great along with Sting Ray Island but for the most part you can get off and wander around the port area alittle. It seems all shore excursions have more than doubled in price everywhere now and most are just not worth spending so much money. Just say'n.
After 6 times visiting Encinada, on the 7th time I decided it was time to just stay on the ship. There is some interesting shopping, but you get hounded constantly to either give money or buy something and I’ve finally had enough! Thanks for the video! :)
I found Amber Cove to be uneventful, as well. We have a west coast cruise next year, and I was already dreading Ensenada 🤦🏾♀️
Totally agree with Costa Maya!
I’m blessed to live and work in the Turks and Caicos Islands. Mostly Providenciales. But I fly over to GDT for work. It’s like travelling to the countryside - Provo being the city. If you only go to Margaritaville, you are not seeing the island. The pace of life is slow. The bars are great - Sandbar and The Turks Head Inn are my favourites when I’m there. I hope that they eventually restore the US base there, because that will attract tourists. It has great beaches - not crowded at all. Just a golf cart drive away. And you’ll get to see wild donkeys and the occasional horse!
Good Evening Jamie, for me Costa Maya MX is one that I have been too many times and I have no desire to see it again.
Thanks Douglas!!!
I really enjoyed belize, mainly because I had a great excursion
I’d be reluctant to swim at Margaritaville pool … all those folks drinking and NOT leaving the pool? One big unisex toilet!!!
Let's hope there is extra chlorine in that pool!!!
Great video. We were just at Costa Maya last week and really enjoyed Krazy Lobster. The port area was way too busy even with only 2 Carnival ships there that day. Icon of the Seas did not stay due to the windy weather. I'd also avoid all other ports mentioned.
I agree with your review of Costa Maya. When we visited we were ship #4. It was PACKED. Moving around was almost impossible.
We always stay on the ship when going to Victoria Canada generally getting there late and leaving late a lot of things are closed not much to do there.
Good point!! Never enough time in Victoria!!!
I love Belize and Jamaica. I find the people of both of these places friendly and helpful. I have never felt unsafe at either. I enjoy Progressi because it is more old Mexico and not the over developed ports like Cozumel. I always get off the ship at Freeport because there are artisan craftsman that we love to visit I am looking forward to get to Nassau again, simply because of the newly constructed port. I really think that everyone should visit each port at leat once and make up their own minds. Another thing is they should research the country, history, etc so they aren't clueless (like the lady I met on a recent cruise to Belize who was really unset that she had learned Spanish and no one spoke Spanish at the port😂). As for the "aggressive vendors, you need to realize that this is how they support their families. If you don't want to purchase, a polite but firm, no thank you works for me.
I gotta say, we still enjoy getting off the cruise at every port, but maybe in time we will decide to stay on board one of these times. Good job with the video Jamie!
I've been to all the ports Jamie's audience voted on. I actually liked Progreso when I visited last year. I went to Merida, a nearby big city with plenty of things to see and do.
St. Lucia is a mixed blessing. There definitely are beautiful beaches and places to see, but avoid the downtown: lots of beggars, shady characters and soldiers with guns. A really scary place that had the group of us head back to the ship within five minutes.
So glad I was done with the Caribbean 20 years ago...saw just about every Island. I have no desire to ever go back...
Cruising in the Mediterranean and Northern Europe is soooo much more interesting and beautiful...so much to see and do.
That's was really interesting. I used to go to Ochos Rios in 1996 and it wasn't too safe then! I always loved cruising the Caribbean. Looks like paradise to us! Cheers 🍻
Thanks for watching!!!
Ensenada, Mexico. Most cruises leaving from the west coast go there for legal reasons. I stopped getting off the ship after the second visit.
Ensenada is good to get off and enjoy some of the freshest street seafood,then head right back to the ship.There's nothing to see there.
I stay on ship when in Ensenada.
My fav excursion ever was in Ensenada did a winery tour and it was fantastic
Costa Maya or as the comedian on our ship called it Close To Maya, massive tourist trap, stay on the ship
We love Belize. Some of our favorite excursions have happened there. We usually stay on the ship in most of the eastern Caribbean ports as most are the same. We enjoy the western itineraries more, seems like there is more adventure.
I went to a mayan pyramid while in belize
St Lucia and Belize is on my not-returning list
I’d agree with you about Costa Maya. Absolutely nothing to do or see their. Labadee, Hati is another port i stay on the ship.
I think you need to consider that Ensenada is on the port list as a means to be compliant to the Jones act. I am not an attorney, but as I understand it, this act requires that non-US registered ships starting and ending in American ports must visit at least one foreign port before returning. In other words, you can’t have round-trip with just American ports unless the ship is US registered. Most round-trip cruises from West Coast ports, such as Los Angeles, stop in Ensenada for this purpose.
It certainly does satisfy the Jones Act. We've been there on shorter cruise with just Ensenda and Catalina, but also longer ones that continue to Cabo. Thanks for watching!!!
That's also why Alaska cruises departing from Seattle always stop in Vancouver or Victoria.
I went cave tubing. I booked thru Carnival. But that was the only thing I enjoyed in Belize
Shocked Grand Turk is on the list. Such a beautiful beach that's steps away. One of my favorites. La Romana has improved the port recently. Added a nice pool with swim up bar. Worth at least 1/2 the day off ship.
Right! We were surprised too!! Maybe it's more of a one and done type of port. Thanks for watching!!
There isn't much to do in Grand Turk besides beach and water sports. I'm one of the ones that does little of either, so I do understand the sentiment.
We always had a good time at Ensenada. Just need to go visit some of the local vineyards and wineries. Really greats wines being made there.
Thanks Warren!!!
There is now a purpose built resort area in La Romana owned by Carnival right next to the Dock. We walked into La Romana it did not feel dangerous (Dec 2023)
I went to Colon earlier this year. I took an excursion to Panama City. I liked it.
I am an advocate for getting off at each port at least once. You make the call after that. Belize I will stay on the ship until the new port is complete. Half Moon and Princess Cay I will stay on the ship. Progresso I will stay on and I agree with Costa Maya. I may get off at Costa Maya since it's been 10 years since i've been there.
I must be the rarity, I always enjoy Nassau maybe because on the first of my many cruises it was our first port.
Cartagena is a one time stop but only with a ship tour. Costa Maya is a good place to go on a tour of the Mayan ruins, which are an hour bus ride away. I’d never get off in Jamaica again. Dunnes Falls is a one timer too.
We did Cartagena visit 2 weeks ago and once we left the ship and cruise terminal, we called an uber to drop us to the city center and it was well worth it. There were 2 ships on that day and there was police on every corner, so we did not felt unsafe at all and we enjoyed the walled city a lot! We were also approached by freestyle rappers and they were really so cool and funny. We gave them a couple of dollars, because at least they amused us. It was much better than taking a picture with the Colombian women dressed in colorful dress. We always avoided them, because who would like to take a picture with someone who demands money then :D
On the same cruise we also did Falmouth, Jamaica and it was really nice place to visit. The atmosphere was really nice, we bought a trip with cruise company and the only thing we did not like when we visited the Blue hole were loads of people where the tour guides even did not let us to take a quick picture, because he wanted these tourists to move smoothly, so more can come later. It was quite annoying, but we felt very safe there.
I have been on a a number of cruises before and I understand a lot of these complaints or concerns. Belize is however something I don’t understand. Maybe it’s just me but the cruise lines offer great excursions there. Last time I was there we went cave tubing and zip lining and it was one of the best excursions I’ve ever done. Maybe it was more memorable because our tire blew out. One port I really don’t like is Mazatlan. It’s an industrial port and there are numerous safety concerns.
Thanks for the feedback!!!
Just got off a ship that set sail from Laromana. They have just finished rebuilding the port stop there. Lots of local venders and a pool area.
Excursions would have to be pre arranged and expect some transit time.
Agree on all the ports you listed. The only port you may want to look at again is Belize. Only because there is a 2 hour each way trip to the Mayan ruins on the Guatemala border at Xuanatunich. It was a hard bus ride but the climb up the pyramid was great. You look right into Guatemala. Ensenada might be okay if you take a wine country tour. But that's it.
Agree that some of the best things, you have to travel to get to, but I think that long bus ride each way scares off cruisers. Thanks for watching John!!!
I got off in LA Romana... but again, I had a ship sponsored excursion
Hey Jaime, hope you and yours are all doing well. The Port of Costa Maya has added a new pool and bar area in the back where you exit the Cruise Port to grab your taxi or Golf cart cart. Some positive comments have been posted about this new area, because lots of passengers just stay in the front main area thus little congestion. I know you and Sharon weren't happy with your experience at Crazy Lobster, but a few recent videos on RUclips have shown good to very good satisfaction. Maybe a change in management. I personally did the excursion to Atlantis with Carnival to the huge enclosed Marina wildlife and beach getaway, which I enjoyed with R/T shuttle, which I enjoyed. Thanks in advance, keep up the great work. 😎⛹️♀️🚴♂️🤸♂️
Thanks Clarence!!!
Agree with Costa Maya and I would add Guadeloupe
We use to really enjoy Costa Maya but now that there are so many ships there at one time it is way to crowded even after the expansion they did.
Going to give some tips in the comments cause people tend to not go very far which seems to be the problem here.
Ensenada town isn't great. The Valle de Guadaloupe is the best hidden gem in the world of wine. Book a tour to the wineries and get away from just California wine.
Progresso - When you take the shuttle from the ship to the bus station, ask for a ticket on the next bus to Merida. It's a couple dollars, takes just under an hour, and your in a fascinating and authentic Mexican city that is the capital of Yucatan.
Costa Maya - Not for everyone cause you need a certification, but for those that are ignore the not so great beaches and get a boat to take you out deeper for scuba diving. Consider a snorkeling tour if your not certified. The reefs are amazing there since they don't get the traffic of Cozumel or Cancun
Thanks for sharing Brett!!!!
I spent 3 week in Mahahual 12 years ago to do some diving on Banco Chinchurro,it's off limit to tourist and only 10 divers per day can dive the reefs.The island has a Marine University research center owned by Spain..only fishing families live on the Island...after we finished our dives we would go buy 3 lb lobsters for $9.00 each,take them back to a restaurant in Mahahual and paid them $10.00 to grill and served with fries and garlic butter.Mahahual(Costa Maya)is the cruise port is a big drug area,we had to be inside our hotel after dark and nothing is open,except for a small local bar that gets very rowdy.
Ensenada is a cruise stop only because cruise lines MUST have a non-US stop to avoid having to pay crew members US wages.
It’s a lousy stop, but I will say it has recently improved a little with the pathway from the port
I agree with you about Costa Maya. It's always so crowded. I am adding Cozumel to this list. I know this is controversial, but I tend to stay on the ship at this port.
To each their own..thanks Karla!!!
We enjoy Grans Turk because of the beach. Then we hand out at Margaritaville. We have done a couple of excursions on Grand Turk.
1st time, my wife & I walked to the airport, from the port, (2-3 miles). Not much to see! Then, last time that we were there, we went into the small town! Also, not much there! Stay with the Margaritaville pools or beaches!
We have fears horror stories on street vendors & alcohol drinks. We stick to restaurants & bottle or can beer or bottle soda.
Agree on your ports.
It's been a long time since I've been to Jamaica but I wouldn't get off there again. Even with a excursion I felt hassled and unsafe, and the disparity between the poor and the rich is so incredibly depressing.
In LaRomana last year and loved the tour to Las Catalinas island. A magnificent beach with an international crowd. No real development and a true island vibe.
Was there 3 weeks ago. Agree
Fabulous as always! Thanks for sharing.
Thank you Jamie!!!!
I agree with you on coasts maya
Never been to Ensenada. Or Jamaica. But all the rest I love going to.
I get off everywhere. Enjoy the sights people culture. My niche may be different than most folks. But I absolutely enjoy the Caribbean.
All that are definite no's for us,
Jamaica, Belize, Haiti (Labadee), La Romana, and anywhere cold like Europe, Alaska, New England and Canada!
So Rome and Athens are a little chilly for you? 🙄
@@davidf6326 i don’t think BobBear did well in geography in school.
"locally crafted items" (shows picture of the green stuff lol)
We got off in Nassau two weeks ago. Check out the new port shopping area. Also, yes the vendors are pushy there but not too bad compared to other ports. We don’t go for a lot of beach excursions, we enjoy history, culture and food or local drinks, wineries, brewery or distillers and so forth. So it depends on your interests too.
I agree with your list. I would add Trinidad, and you don't even have to get off the ship to be annoyed there. They were blasting reggae music at 7am right on the dock 50 feet from the ship. Good luck sleeping in with a speaker thumping outside your window. This went on all day.
For me the ship is the destination. I would be fine if they just went out and cruised around and did not stop anywhere.
T&T is the worst,just last week a cpl from a cruise got mugged by a 14 yo,good thing the locals got hold of him and held him for the police.I was born in Trinidad,left there in 1975 when it was still paradise.I refuse to go back for a visit..
Just returned from a cruise which stopped in Tobago. That’s another one I would have stayed in on the ship in hindsight.
@@skeletor9121 The best beach in Tobago(Pigeon Point) is unswimmable due to an oil spill..Scarborough where the port is,has nothing to do..I don't know why cruises stop there.
@@neilcharles2520 I saw the oil spill right next to the cruise port. It’s quite a ways away from Pigeon Point beach which is where we went and it was over crowded with zero umbrellas for rent. Wasn’t the best excursion experience.
@@skeletor9121 You should have kept walking past the first beach area,there is another area where the locals hang out,and wind surfing and other water sports..restaurant and bar,shower etc with no charge...sorry you did not enjoy and should have done a little more research.I did a lot of scuba diving in my teens on Tobago.You could have gone to Store Bay and eat some local food,lots of beach unbrellas and chairs along with a bar.
My most hated cruise ports are Jamaica, Puerto Rico, the Bahamas and Mexico in its entirety.
San Juan and Puerto Vallarta are my two FAVORITE ports in the Caribbean or Mexico. I find most of the islands in the Caribbean boring once you’ve seen them. They all are pretty much the same.
My list of “stay on the ship” ports are Nassau, Belize, & Ocho Rios Jamaica
Thanks for a well done, intelligent video. As a 23 year veteran of the cruise industry, I agree completely with your assessment. Thanks again!
Thank you!!!
LOL. When you said Caye Caulker the Caye is pronounced as Key, not Kay. My father in law is from there.
Last time we got off at Costa Maya we won’t anymore. It was right after the shut down and the sales people were too aggressive.
We really wanted to love it!!! Thanks for watching!!!
Ensenada has a lot more to offer, for example Valle de Guadalupe, a 30 min drive from Ens😁😁
I understand your point of view - and agree so we do not cruise the Caribbean any more. There is a luxury in reaching a time in life where we have the time to travel farther and explore other places.
Going to Nassau in 3 weeks and will go to the new port area, walk around for an hour and get back on the ship to enjoy. Quite frankly I’m really sick of being haggled to buy stuff. if they would leave me alone for two seconds I would buy some stuff to help them out.
I agree on Ensenada. I use to drive once in a while to Ensenada as a young man and have a good time. But other than drinking and eating there isn't much to do. Nassau we visited in January for the first time. We walked 8 miles and that was good day sightseeing the town. Didn't feel unsafe, lots of vendors and cab drivers stopping us.... but probably will not do it again.
I would add Martinique. When I worked on ships we used say, to passengers that asked, Martinique is French for "stay on the ship"
Drive thru Belize City once and you will know why to avoid.
You’ve got to sees it to Belize it as they say.😕
The first time I was in Nassau i got accosted by a Vendor headed back to the Ship. the last two times I was there I stayed on the Ship
Thanks Timothy!!!
Agree with Belize, Puetra Plata Dominican, Bahamas. Jamaica was an experience of a different culture for sure.
We did snorkeling which was great but yah nothing else is great
We went to a vineyard while in port an Ensenada. Drinkable wines and a lot of fun. Otherwise, we would have stayed on the ship, as well.
A few folks have commented on the vineyards..Thanks for watching!!!
We went to a couple vineyards outside of Ensenada too. A perfect alternative to the city itself.
I look forward to the Carribean ports. I enjoy talking to the people and learning about their culture. When we do Euroean ports, we usually don't het off the ship. We find the people and attractions to be boring and the locals tend to be a bit....non welcoming to those who don't look like them.
I would get off and walk around the port area as long as it wasn't an industrial port. I feel I'm still in the cruise ship bubble and I can look around. I haven't gotten off in Nassau my last few cruises but I would do it next time just to look around the new port area they've created.
I've been to some of these ports and I really can't agree with your view. But then again I didn't book a cruise because I wanted to stay on the ship. I enjoy seeing the towns either by taking excursions or walking around on my own. One of my favorites is Jamaica.
He speaks the truth!!
Thanks Dan!!!
@@SharonatSeaTravel only Caribbean port I liked was Grand Caymen
La. Romana,, dominican republic , we took the tourist train back to port and had a police escort to port, we had the police/security telling us to go back recommend us to go back politely
Wow!! That is wild...thanks for watching!!!
I’ve been to La Romana on land! One of the most beautiful beaches I have ever been to! They have beautiful resorts there too!
La. Romana is bad once you leave the cruise port. One excursions was enough armed escorts the whole time.
I've been off at most, not LaRomana and Progresso, of them and personally, never had an issue. I'm with the rest on Grand Turk, my father thinks I'm crazy. Maybe do the golf cart excursion I saw Dee and Jay do, I believe it was them. Belize we did Altun Ha ruins, I'd go back to see how it changed. Costa Maya we've only been twice.
Belize nature tour is great.
Placencia is amazing if you can get a ferry
For many on the Norwegian Star, Antarctica would be in this category.
I agree with a lot of them. Spot on
Thanks for watching!!!
Costa Maya the beach vendors were relentless. The only way to get away from them was to go in the water. Couldn't get a nap on the beach over and over badgering me to get a massage. One i had to tell stop touching me
Been to most of the Caribbean ports in my 35+ years of cruising. If asked to describe the differences in topography or culture between Martinique, St. Lucia or St. Vincent, I wouldn’t be able to answer.
Great video! But we're going to change your mind about Costa Maya. Its one of our favorite ports!
Good luck!!! lol Loved the Icon videos @howwecruise!!!!