Finding the Best Cruise Shore Excursions: Tips & Tricks From Cruising Experts

• Why go on a shore excursion?
• What kind of shore excursions can you book?
• Do you need to book a shore excursion?
• When is the best time to book a shore excursion?
• Independent vs ship sponsored shore excursions
• Where is the best place to book shore excursions?
• How much are shore excursions?
• Tips on how to maximise your next cruise shore excursion

Finding a shore excursion that meets your needs and budget is a great way to explore a brand new location with the help of some local guides.

In most cases, ships are only in port for one day - meaning you don't have heaps of time to discover everything the location has to offer. This is why tours are a great option, especially if your bucket list is erring on the longer side.

Beyond the benefit of learning with a local guide, here are a few more reasons why we love shore excursions:

• They help you step out of your comfort zone and try something new.
• You can gain a local's insight, and suss out the best places to eat, drink and explore.
• Get up close and personal with amazing wildlife as you learn about the flora and fauna of your destination.
• Shore excursions have been curated knowing your time in port is limited, meaning they maximise every hour.

The options are endless, with a wide range of active and sightseeing tours on offer.

Popular active shore excursions

You'll generally find these options in more tropical and lush destinations like the Caribbean and Pacific.

• Snorkelling
• Scuba diving
• Glacier hiking
• Canyoneering
• Quad biking
• White water rafting
• Kayaking
• Water sports
• Ziplining
• Hiking
• Dog-sledding
• Sailing
• Biking
• Skiing
• Beach activities

Popular sightseeing and cultural shore excursions

These are common options for anyone cruising through Europe, the Americas and Asia.

• Exploring ancient sites (think Mayan Ruins or Rome)
• Scenic helicopter ride
• Cooking classes
• History tours through a museum or gallery
• Bus sightseeing tours to nearby cities
• Wine tasting
• Market tours (European Christmas markets in winter, anyone?)

Options will vary based on the location and climate, so research your itinerary before you book for a better idea of what's on offer.

There is no rule stating you have to book a shore excursion. In fact, many cruisers love nothing more than meandering off the ship and spending a few hours exploring the port at their own pace.

We're big believers that the best way to experience a location is simply by walking the streets, popping in and out of cafes and shops and chatting with the locals. So, if there's no particular landmark or tour you wish to join, strolling is the best way to save some cash and get to know the city.

On the flip side, if you're a first time cruiser or have very specific plans on what you want to see or experience, then a shore excursion is a handy way to take away some stress, prevent language barriers and visit areas otherwise inaccessible on foot.

As a rule of thumb, if there's an excursion you can't imagine missing we recommend booking it as soon as possible. Some excursions sell out fast, so time is of the essence. Plus booking in advance means you have a better idea of what you need to pack and plan for.

Alternatively, if you're not super fussed on what to do and would rather be guided by how your feeling on holiday, then you are more than welcome to book shore excursions once you're on the cruise.

Unsure of what to do? Your Flight Centre travel consultant can help you plan and book tours and excursions ahead of time.

Tours booked through the cruise line (either onboard, or in advance with your travel agent) are known as ship sponsored excursions. Those booked through companies not affiliated with the cruise line are considered independent.

Ship sponsored excursions

Great for first time cruisers or novice travellers, ship tours are easy and provide peace of mind.

Pros:

• Depart from and return direct to the ship.
• The ship will wait for all of its affiliated tours to return before departing, meaning you don't have to stress about missing the boat.
• Cruise ship guides mean no language barriers.
• Tour providers have been vetted, and you can trust that they are licensed and reputable.
• Meet your fellow cruise passengers.
• 24/7 support while on board the cruise.

Cons:

• Often more expensive then those booked independently.
• Tours can be bigger, with less chances to customise what you want to see.

Independent Tours

Perfect for those with plenty of experience that are keen to save some cash or do something different.

Pros:

• Often cheaper than ship sponsored tours.
• More opportunities to customise your tour.
• Smaller group sizes.
• Option to use local guides and support the local community, rather than giving your money to the larger cruise line.
• Niche tour and itineraries available.

Cons:

• Less peace of mind in terms of pick up and drop off.
• Any delays may lead to missing the boat.
• No onboard assistance if you need to contact the tour company while at sea.

The best place to book your tour is dependent on your travel style, budget and what you want to experience. As a rule of thumb, there are three places you can book shore excursions - see our summary below.

Online through the cruise portal or independent provider

Whether you book through the cruise portal or with an independent provider with the help of your travel agent, this option is best if you don't want to risk missing a specific excursion, or would prefer to have things planned in advance.

Keep in mind that some companies require you to pay in full before you leave, and you may be penalised if you cancel within 24-48 hours of the tour.

On board the cruise ship

This is only an option for the ship's own tours, and can be organised at the shore excursions desk. This is a great place to ask staff questions before committing to the tour. Generally the cost is added to the final bill - just keep in mind that popular tours may be sold out.

Direct in port with local companies

If you're not super fussed, then consider waiting until you arrive and chatting with guides and operators on shore for same-day excursions. This may be cheaper as there is the option to barter, however you can never guarantee what is available.

The cost of your shore excursion depends on a wide range of things, including whether it's a full day or half day tour, type of activity, local currency, tour guides, inclusions and more. Some cruise lines, particularly luxury lines, river cruises, small coastal ships and expedition ships may even include shore excursions in the fares.

As a minimum, budget at least $50-$100 per person per tour, with wiggle room to spend more depending on what you choose.

Is it cheaper to buy shore excursions on the ship? Generally, no. Most cruises will either charge the same or more for those booked on the ship.

If you're hoping to purchase excursions for less, keep your eyes peeled for promotions that offer discounted tours or credit when booking your cruise. Otherwise, chat with your Flight Centre cruising expert or look online for cheaper alternatives.

Top tip: Tipping culture varies between countries. Do a little research before you go, or ask the cruise desk onboard for tipping advice if you're unsure.

Whether you're a first time cruiser prepping for your time aboard, cash-strapped and keen to score a discount, or simply just want to make the most of your next holiday, here are some tips, tricks and questions to ask when booking shore excursions.

• Do plenty of research and carefully read the tour description to ensure it matches your expectations.
• Understand what is and isn't included in the tour price (tips, meals, transport, gear hire, guides etc).
• Know how many people are expected on the tour so you can account for waiting time.
• How much free time will you have?
• What is the fitness level required? Will you be clocking some serious steps, or on a bus for most of the trip?
• How long is the tour? Some take a full day, while others may be half day giving you some time to discover the port freely on your own.
• Do you really need a guide, or is this something you can do on your own or with a private driver and car?
• Ask the cruise staff for advice in the best beaches, restaurants and shopping spots. Chances are they've visited a few times already.
• Remember it is okay to do your own thing!

If you're unsure where to start, then scoot on in to your local Fight Centre and chat with one of our experts to book shore excursions on your next cruise today!