Thread: First cruise 01/29/11

My family and I are going on our first curise on January the 29/11. It will be my wife, myself and our 5 year old son. We are going to Ocho Rios and Grand Caymon. Being new to cruising we have no ideal what to expect. When we get off the ship in either place what can we expect, what should we do, where should we go and how much money should we expect to spend? We have a fwe friends who have been to Jamaica and told us to figure out where we want to go and get a taxi. They said it's cheaper that way. What would you all suggest? We want to go to Dunn's River Falls for sure but other then that were not sure. Is there much to do within walking distance from the ship in either place.

First of all, aboard. Good to have you with us.

IMHO, in Jamaica, be very careful. But do get to the falls, they are really something. There are some places to walk from the pier, but be careful.
If I were you, I would get a cab and have them take me to a nice beach or a shopping area.

In the Caymans, you can walk through town right from the pier. Lots of shopping there. Since you have a little one with you, that might be boring for him though. You can take a taxi there also to a beach. Also, they have great "swim with the stingrays" excursions, but I believe your son is too small for that. But, if you can, take him anyway and he can stay on the boat with one of you while the other swims with the rays. Its an unforgettable experience.

Whatever you do, enjoy.

As far as money goes, it just depends on what you will end up doing in either port. I have been know to not spend a dime and then on the other hand, spent too much.

Welcome to CLF, and have a great cruise.

thanks for the welcome guys.

hanna, what beach and shopping area would you recommend?

HAPPY NEW YEAR! Oh. Ocho Rios. I wish I could help with your questions because I too will be there on a cruise on January 22nd. I have never been to Jamaica either. Is it really quite a dangerous place? We are always informed on cruises never to get off the ship wearing jewellery or carrying anything that looks expensive. But... we all want to use our cameras!

I have heard a lot about Dunns River Falls but it means walking and climbing up huge boulders to the top. I wonder if it will be slippery. I would love to do that.
Have a great cruise!

Zella, I have never been there but from what I'm getting from other people it not that bad if you stay in the better areas. The biggest thing we have been told is to watch your child very close. Not that anyone would take them but that people will try to give them stuff. If you get back before the 28th tell me what we need to do and what not to see. We have some friends who will be at a resort there while you will be there but they are getting back the day before we get there. have a good trip.