2006-07-18 18:13:53 · 5 answers · asked by Jackie 1 in Travel ➔ Cruise Travel
It is best to get them from the cruise line. You may be a little more limited on options and pay a little more, but it is worth it. The cruise line will keep better tabs on you if you use their excursions, it is just too hard otherwise. If your tour runs late or something, they may have to leave port. Where if they know where you are, they will wait.
It depends on the line, but some will actually let you purchase excursions ahead of time. You can call, ask your travel agent, or go to the cruise line website to see what they do for this. Otherwise, you can go to the excursions desk onboard and get any info you need. Just be aware that if you wait to get the excursions until you are onboard and they allow you to book them ahead, some things may sell out before you can join.
2006-07-18 19:15:41 · answer #1 · answered by tech_fanatic 7 · 0⤊ 1⤋
Most cruise lines will let you book your shore excursions ahead of time. If you have specific ones that you are interested in you should probably explore this option, especially if there is limited space. Like someone else said, the main advantage to booking it through the cruise line is that if something should happen and your group doesn't make it make to the ship in time, your boat won't leave you. Also if you go on an excursion through the cruise line their reputation is on the line so they will only use excursion companies that they trust and can rely on. But make sure not to over book because no matter who you plan your excursions with you will almost always lose your money if you decide not to go on the excursion.
2006-07-20 14:20:27 · answer #2 · answered by Nubbytail 1 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Go to CruiseCritic.com and look at the Boards for Hawaii. You'll find lots of info.
Assuming you are from the U.S., I see little reason to buy excursions through the ship, unless this is your first cruise and/or you are very nervous about any kind of venturing out on your own. The ship excursions cost more and are usually more crowded and more limited in scope, but you have the assurance that they won't leave you behind if you are late coming back.
Do lots of reading beforehand, even if you do decide to use the ship's tours.
2006-07-19 14:37:45 · answer #3 · answered by momsezno 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
It's best to buy them before you go if you know what you want to do. Believe me, it's a LOT easier. You don't have to wait at the desk to purchase them, run the risk of the excursion filling up, and be disappointed. Plus if you order them in advance, you get the tickets for your excursion either when you get your tickets before you get to the cruise ship (from travel agent or in the mail) or when you arrive in your room.
2006-07-19 16:23:40 · answer #4 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
yeah, onboard, the only downside is that the lines for shore excursions on the ship is VERY long, so book early, maybe the 1st or 2nd day of the cruise
2006-07-19 15:41:21 · answer #5 · answered by mcstennis09 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋