Shore Trips

Tammy and I are going to celebrate our 25th wedding anniversary on the Paradise, sailing Dec 15. We have been on one priveous cruise many years ago. What are the pros and cons about shore trips? Shall we purchase from Carnival on the ship, or on our own before we go?

[Donna]

Danny,
There are many independent shore excursion companies to check-out, plus you will still have the cruiseline excursions to pick from. Do your homework, decide what exactly you want to do at each port, here is a link to one of many shore operators, may-be it will help you decide what all you want to do and what the cost is, you can then compare to what the cruiseline offers at what price. Generally, by booking on your own, you can save a few dollars, but in the event you are running late, at least with a cruiseline tour, they will know where you are and hold the ship if you become that late, so its something to also consider. Good luck:

http://www.shoreexcursions.com/

[nushnakka]

Our 1st 2 cruises were 4 years apart and we booked the tours thru Carnival and after we went on our own. If you are comfortable and can keep a handle on the time you may want to consider it yourself otherwise book thru Carnival because like Donna said in the event the tour is running late.

[Nanatravel]

By booking through the cruise line, you have the safety and security of knowing the tour provider will get you back to the ship on time. Usually you will experience everthing that is described in the overview. If you are in a foreign speaking country/port, then you may also have more motive for booking on board. If you just want to take a 1/2 day tour, go to a beach or go to a particular site, then you can opt for a taxi/van tour probably cheaper than on the ship. Keep you tours to half day mornings so you have plenty of time to return to the ship for lunch then venture into the port for exploring.
Bon Voyage.

We are looking at the 12/15 cruise - it will be our third cruise on the Paradise.

we sailed in 99 and 00 but skipped last year as we were moving.

I have looked for two weeks and it looks like we'll sail on the Paradise again.

John