Indulge in the good vibes and good times of Jamaica's island life.
Cruise to Jamaica, the birthplace of reggae which gave the world the soundtrack of its relaxed lifestyle, good-time-loving people and fearless optimism. As soon as you arrive, you'll sense how much this destination honors the sensibilities of its musical export. Soak your feet in pristine blue waters at Bamboo Beach Club in Ocho Rios. Splash around Dunn's River Falls, where cold, clear mountain water pours down on the rocks in mini-waterfalls. Journey into the rainforest at Mystic Mountain, and take the SkyExplorer chairlift above the treetops to the mountain's summit. Discover the magic with a Jamaica cruise.
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Jamaica Cruise Ports
Cruise ships in Jamaica typically call at Montego Bay, Ocho Rios and Falmouth. These three vibrant ports showcase the island’s culture, coastline and lush interiors in different ways. Each one offers its own mix of beaches, markets, natural wonders and easy-to-reach island adventures, whether you’re looking for relaxed days by the water or immersive exploration inland.
Montego Bay
Montego Bay blends calm turquoise beaches with lively neighborhoods and stunning coastal views. Spend your vacation stretching out on soft sand, snorkeling along thriving reefs or browsing local craft markets for handmade keepsakes. With rolling hills surrounding the bay, it's also one of the island’s best gateways for scenic drives and laid-back waterfront dining.
Ocho Rios
Ocho Rios sits at the heart of Jamaica’s lush northern coast and is known for its dramatic waterfalls, dense forests and rugged peaks. This is the place for travelers who want to wander jungle trails, climb natural limestone steps carved by cascading water or take in sweeping views from nearby hillsides. Its compact port area also makes shops and cafés easy to reach on foot.
Falmouth
Historic Falmouth pairs Georgian-era architecture with quick access to some of Jamaica’s most beautiful stretches of coastline. Stroll its walkable streets, stop into local eateries or head just beyond town for quiet beaches framed by coconut palms. The countryside surrounding Falmouth is also ideal for gentle adventures, from breezy coastal paths to peaceful rivers and open ranchlands.
Rhythms and Rum
Spend some time getting to know the culture of this island nation. From distinctive keepsakes to the memories you'll make at its reggae-filled beaches, you're sure to bring a piece of something truly Jamaican back home after your vacation.
A Piece of All Right
Whether you choose rum, coconut oil, jerk seasonings or wood carvings, keepsakes from Jamaica will give you a taste of the island even when you're back home. Check out the Old Fort Craft Market in Montego Bay or Island Village in Ocho Rios for handmade local goods.
One Love
Get to know Bob Marley with a tour of his birthplace town, Nine Mile. Saunter the grounds of the Greenwood Great House, an 18th-century mansion, or discover Jamaican fine art at the renowned National Museum West.
Jam Out
In many ways, Jamaica is its music. No matter where you go on the island, you'll be dancing to reggae beats and feeling the good-time vibe of this global phenomenon. Head to Bourbon Beach to soak in the tones and the waves at the same time.
Best Jamaica Cruises
A cruise to Jamaica is filled with exciting destinations, each with its own style and vibe. Discover Jamaica onboard the Best Royal Caribbean Cruise Ships.
Westward Winds
Work your visit to Jamaica into a Western Caribbean cruise. Hang out with stingrays in Grand Cayman, snorkel coral reefs in Labadee, Haiti, and splash around in the waterfalls at Jamaica's Dunn's River Falls.
From Rivers to Ruins
Combine your Jamaican adventure with an exploration of nearby Mexico. Take in the adventurous vibe of "Ochi," or Ocho Rios, then explore the Mayan ruins of Tulum and the bustling beaches of Cozumel and Cancun.
WHAT TO KNOW
BEFORE YOU GO
Best Month to Cruise to Jamaica
The island has fairly good weather all year long, but it's good to know that the rainy season comes in May and then again from October to November. Jamaica also has a hurricane season that lasts from June 1 to November 30. November and December is a great time to visit: The likelihood of storms is low, and the weather is still warm while it's colder in more northerly climates.
Licensed local taxis are known as "contract carriages" and always display a red license plate. They operate under fixed rates and these can be seen inside the cabs. If you want to save money, opt for route taxis, a service that runs like buses and picks up others along the way. These also have red license plates.
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If you rent a car, remember to drive on the left lane.
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Bargaining is acceptable and expected at the local markets and souvenir stalls.
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For delicious food at a discount, stop by the local street vendors: They serve some of the island's most delicious, authentic fare.
LOCAL CUISINE
Spice and Everything Nice
A blend of old and new influences, Jamaican cuisine incorporates the flavors of the indigenous peoples that once inhabited the island and the Europeans that once landed on its shores.
The Right Kind of Jerk
Jerk chicken is the fragrant, smoky and spicy dish that's arguably Jamaica's culinary claim to fame. This spicy barbecued chicken gets its red-hot flavors from a special rub, usually including Scotch bonnet peppers and sweeter spices like allspice and nutmeg
AN UNLIKELY PEAR
You might not think of fruit and fish together, but Jamaican cooks have turned this unlikely pairing into a distinctive dish. Ackee and codfish incorporates the fleshy, yellow seeds of the tropical, pear-shaped ackee fruit with salted cod. The result is a light but filling protein-packed dish that's typically served over rice for dinner or with dumplings for breakfast
Double Bammy
The history of bammy goes way, way back. Originally eaten by Jamaica's indigenous inhabitants, this flatbread is made from the starchy root vegetable cassava. It's then soaked in coconut milk and then fried to perfection. Enjoy them on their own in for breakfast or alongside fish or jerk chicken at lunch or dinner
RELATED PORTS
A visit to Jamaica opens up a world of possibilities in the Caribbean, making it easy and exciting to venture to other countries during the same trip. After choosing your favorite Jamaica cruise port, why not stop to snorkel the coral reef off Labadee, Haiti, or experience the colorful Cozumel and Cancun in Mexico?
