stay on ship in Margarita Island?

I have not heard many good things about Margarita Island, many people saying to stay on the ship. Any input is appreciated!

[Harry Martin]

You know, Lorac ... I say it's worth just jumping off if even for a bit.

With all the sea days, I am usually up to just walk about for at least a little awhile.

I've never been there before, but will be stopping Wednesday in Ensenada on the Ecstasy. I've been there at least 5-7 times, but I still get off and at least wander about the port terminal. I just don't make a long day of it.

In my opinion, there is plenty of time to hang out on the ship or sit by the pool when not in port or just come back early in the afternoon.

Just my thought,
Harry

[dezertcruzer]

I made the mistake once of staying on board in Barbados because the rain was pouring down. Afterward, I kicked myself, saying, "What is the point of having been to someplace not to GO there?" Never again. Every island, every port, has something to offer. I would definitely get off the ship and see Margarita Island. If you don't want to do it on your own, take a ship's excursion. You'll be escorted by a local who knows the ropes, you'll feel safe, and you'll get to see someplace that you've never seen before!



Post Edited (02-22-04 16:01)

[sassy]

we thought the same way but chose to go ....they have lovely beaches & some nice little "huts" set up for buying stuff.

[Ron]

You always hear it from someone---" don't waste your time here or there ".
I have been to Margarita and wouldn't mind going back, although it's not my favorite island ( but neither is ST. Thomas ). It's worth a look. It's dry and scrubby in some areas and lush and green in others. Take a tour--get out away from the dock area. Don't be concerned about the naysayers. Relax and enjoy your day. At least you can say--been there--done that.

I agree with dezertcruser. Don't by-pass a chance to see something new when you're on a cruise. Unless you're sick, of course!

J.

[zeno]

Some years ago I spent a week on Margarita Island - so my advice is to get off the ship and see a little bit of the island. There are some lovely beaches at Playa El Agua and Juan Griego. There are spectacular views at the national park at EL Copey. A historical tour for those interested in history - will be very interesting - there are old fortresses and some lovely towns. Also I am no-one here is aware that Margarita Island is where the female heroine of Venezuelan independence - Luisa Arismundi (sp ?) was held prisoner - you can see the fortress and tiny cell she was held in.

[SAndrea91483]

I think that if you haven't been to a place before, you should go and see it for yourself to decide whether or not you like it. Some people may not like it, but you may end up loving it. And if you find yourself agreeing with those who dislike it, you can always go back to the ship. For example, this past June, I was on a cruise with 11 other people and one of our stops was Cozumel. I liked it just fine and would get off the boat again if I ever went on another cruise that ended up there, but a majority of the people in my party didn't like it and said they wouldn't go back. Their main reason was that it "looked too dirty". I, on the other hand, enjoyed the change of scenery that traveling to new places brings and didn't find Cozumel to be dirty or disgusting. It's all a matter of opinion.