Visiting Jamaica on Your Honeymoon Cruise

by Shannon Kietzman, writer for Your Wedding Place.com

Jamaica cruises are among the most popular choices for honeymooners. This amazing island features stunning natural features and terrain, including lush jungles and white beaches. The 7,000 foot mountains and waterfalls only had to the island’s allure.

Arriving at Jamaica On A Cruise

A Jamaica cruise is typically part of a Western Caribbean cruise and lasts for seven days or longer. When it comes to taking a Jamaica cruise, the cruise line may either port at Ocho Rios or at the port city of Montego Bay, referred to as Mo Bay. Both are located on the northern coast of Jamaica, though Montego Bay is about 70 miles further west. In addition, both are near popular shore excursions and other attractions, yet they are far enough away to keep the crowds smaller. When arriving at the port, you will be in awe of the views of the Jamaican mountains.

While in Jamaica, there are a few things you should keep in mind:

• The official currency of Jamaica is the Jamaican dollar, which is equivalent to about two cents in United States money. United States money is, however, widely accepted.
• English is Jamaica’s official language, but most speak with rich accents and local dialect. Nonetheless, visitors have no problem speaking English while in Jamaica.
• Crime is a problem in Jamaica. Therefore, it is best to avoid individual exploration, particularly after dark or in remote areas.

What to See and Do While on a Jamaica Cruise

Shore tours abound on a Jamaica cruise. These tours can be rich in cultural history or allow you to take in the breathtaking natural wonders of the island. Common tours include Dunn’s River Falls, yacht cruises, historical tour, golf resorts, safari adventures horseback riding, river rafting and tubing, Dolphin Cove expeditions, and canopy adventures. It is generally best to stick with organized tours while in Jamaica because of the high crime rate on the island. Here is a closer look at some of Jamaica’s must-see attractions:

• Dolphin Cove – This small nature preserve includes a lagoon that is home to many tame dolphins. For varying fees, you can touch them, play with them, and even swim with them. There are also some walking trails and a small shopping center for souvenirs.
• Dunn’s River Falls – This amazing terraced waterfall is over 600 feet tall and falls to the beach below. You can climb the falls or enjoy views of the falls from the boardwalks. It is best to wear aqua shoes while exploring the falls.
• Jimmy Buffet’s Margaritaville – This popular bar includes a waterslide and a rooftop whirlpool.
• Island Village – This four acre shopping center is next to the Ocho Rios cruise pier. It offers shops, art galleries, museums, and outdoor concerts.
• Fern Gully – This riverbed south of Ocho Rios was converted into a rainforest preserve and contains hundreds of different varieties of wild ferns.
• Reggae Xplosion – You can explore the history of Jamaican music at this museum.
• Rose Hall Great Hose – This plantation is located east of Montego Bay. It is seeped with Jamaican history, including murder, witchcraft, slavery, and ghost legends.
• Brimmer Hall Estate – This estate, which is located east of Ocho Rios, is a working plantation that provides guided tours through coffee fields and fruit orchards. It is also home to a restaurant where you and your honey can enjoy Jamaican cuisine.
• Rocklands Wildlife Station – This bird sanctuary is located south of Montego Bay. Here, you can hand-feed doves and finches while interacting with Jamaican doctor birds.
• Beaches – There are plenty of public beaches to be found in Jamaica, though you will have to venture further away from the cruise dock to find a more secluded area for you and your sweetheart.

Jamaica is a true island paradise that makes for an exquisite honeymoon cruise. From beautiful natural spectacles to quirky and fun attractions, you will enjoy every minute of your Jamaica cruise.

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