Ocho Rios is located on Jamaica's northeast cost. Once a small fishing and banana port, Ocho Rios has become the cruise ship capital of Jamaica and the most popular western Caribbean port of call due to its stunning waterfalls, beaches, and fun filled Shore Excursions.

There is plenty to see and do while your cruise ship is docked in this scenic tropical port. In addition to relaxing in the incomparable blue Caribbean sea and sun-worshipping on the magnificent beaches, there are a number of excellent excursions in and around Ocho Rios that can include shopping, snorkeling, downhill mountain bike riding, botanical gardens tours, plantation tours, horseback riding treks, river tubing adventures, and river rafting. For beach lovers, there are Mahogany, Boscobel, and James Bond beach. At Mahogany beach you and your family will be delighted with the variety of activities there are to enjoy.

One of the best ways to see the tropical beauty Jamaica has to offer is by booking a shore excursion. Your cruise ship offers a variety of Shore excursions in beautiful Ocho Rios, Jamaica, and they range in price from $25.00 - $150.00 per person. These excursions are very popular and fill up very fast so to avoid being disappointed, try to book early. Many cruise lines offer shore excursions on their websites, allowing bookings before leaving home.

Another option to booking shore excursions is with an independent operator. You can find independent operators offering the same, if not better and more private, shore excursions at competitive rates. When looking for independent operators make sure that they belong to "Jamaica's Union of Travelers Association" (J.U.T.A). JUTA operators can be recognized by an identification card and their vehicles will have a red license plate. Remember to book in advance; if no reservation is available for your arrival date, your last resort will be to negotiate your excursion with a tour operator at the pier, but be careful; prices can vary dramatically from operator to operator.

There is an abundance of fun filled activities in Ocho Rios and it is difficult to pick one out of the many options, however, my personal favorite excursion is to Dunn's River Falls. Most ship passengers who visit Ocho Rios are eager to take the challenge of climbing this 600 ft (183m) waterfall, shaped like a giant staircase, cascading down to form cool pools among rocks, nestled in a picturesque forest of trees. For those who feel a little less daring, one can walk along the dramatic falls observing the beauty of the lush tropical vegetation. Beach lovers can hang out at the base of the falls. Don't forget to bring your swimsuit, and waterproof camera. Lockers and water shoes can be rented on site. You might opt to save money by bringing a pair of old sneakers to protect your feet when climbing (sandals are not allowed).

Shore excursions can be a truly memorable experience, but also time consuming. I recommend researching the various excursions and comparing prices before booking. It is best to book excursions located within the Ocho Rios area and not more than 30 minutes away. You and your family will have more time to relax and take in the beautiful Jamaican scenery instead of worrying about getting back to the boat on time.

Lamar Jayden is the owner of Ocho Rios Tour. Ocho Rios Tour offers a variety of shore excursions in Ocho Rios. They specialize in cruise ship passengers looking to maximize Ocho Rios shore excursion activities at reduced cost.