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What happens during a
port-of-call?
When the ship docks in a port other than the originating port, it’s called a
port-of-call. Passengers generally have the option to leave the ship, or disembark, during this time. The port-of-calls can last anywhere from a few hours to several days.
There is so much to do during a port-of-call, that you might have a hard time choosing which activity or tour and where to begin.
For instance, if you’re sailing the Caribbean, you might want to explore on your own or take a guided tour. Explore what? Well, you have water falls, beaches, markets, shopping, ancient ruins, local art and much more. You can rent boats, bicycles, roller skates, hang gliders, fishing boats, sail boats, horses or do almost anything you choose, just watch your time and don’t miss the ship when it sails. On Alaska cruises, you might think about whale watching, fishing, wildlife tours, Denali park and helicopter tours to the glacier ice fields or a variety of other land packages. On the European sailings there will be more than any one person can see in any one port, so read up before you go. The cruise lines will have some great land tours for the exotic and adventure sailors. Hawaii cruises will offer some spectacular photos opportunities of whales, wildlife, volcano’s and much more. Be ready for some great land adventures.
Not enough. Well, if you’re cruising Mexico, Bahamas or Bermuda you might want to visit local attractions or ride a horse over miles of hills and beaches. Scale waterfalls or climb the Mayan ruins, follow the footsteps of history or have the wind in your face as you trail in the wake of a water-skiing boat. Need more action, how about windsurfing, sailing or just plain soaking up the sun at some of the world’s best beaches. Need something for that living room wall, try deep sea fishing for marlin, barracuda or many other game fish. The wife will just love it!
Still not satisfied, let’s see, how about rafting down a lazy river enjoying the sun or snorkeling and scuba diving in some of the best coral waters in the world. Don’t be surprised by the sea life you will encounter just by snorkeling. The fish and coral are plenty and you might even see something bigger than you. Ok, one more item for the golfers, bring the clubs and shoes. On almost any cruise you can find a course just waiting for you to bring it to its knees. Just remember to bring extra golf balls as most of these courses have holes over the ocean. Tee times can be arranged by the ship or sometimes by taking a taxi from the dock to the course yourself. Check with the ship first and make sure you leave plenty of time to get back on board to tell the golf stories.
In short, cruising is the perfect way to sample a variety of different destinations and adventures. Many customers chose to do as many things as possible during their cruise, while others like it best when everyone leaves the ship, and it is nice and quiet. You chose. What ever you decide, it’s the perfect choice.
Just a quick note about personal identification and safety. Most cruise lines will issue some type of boarding card or ID, you will also need to provide a photo ID (drivers license, etc.) to show the security personnel at the boarding plank. The cruise line usually will provide a lock box or safe in each cabin. On shore, always take a moment to know your surroundings and/or who is around you and why. Regarding money. A good rule of thumb is to take only one or two credit cards on shore and a little cash. Traveler checks are preferred and accepted almost everywhere the ships dock. Some savvy travelers make copies of their credit cards, ID’s, passports and other valuables before they board a ship, just in case. |
