Just a bit larger than the state of Massachusetts, the island of Jamaica boasts three major cruise ports: Ocho Rios, Falmouth and Montego Bay. With a central spine of rugged mountains, waterfalls that cascade into deep valleys, and pretty beaches lapped by turquoise water, it’s easy to fall in love with this Eastern Caribbean destination.
Each port has its attractions, and each is a great starting point for excursions all around the island. Here’s a look at what’s unique about each Jamaican port:
Falmouth
A bustling town during Jamaica’s days as a British colony, Falmouth has been reborn as a cruise port. The cruise terminal, opened in 2011, has Georgian style: but, in Falmouth itself, you can see buildings actually constructed during the Georgian Era. Just beyond the port complex, there are gems like the Falmouth Court House and St. Peter’s Anglican Church. It’s an easy walk, but there are also trolley tours that leave from the port.
Montego Bay
Popularly known as MoBay, Montego Bay is a hotspot for reggae music, authentic Jamaican food and cultural festivals, lively beaches, golfing and duty-free shopping. Catch a shuttle or taxi into town and head to City Centre, Half Moon Village or Whitter Village to browse the jewelry, watches, perfumes, crystal, leather goods and clothing. For an unforgettable round of golf, try any of the five championships courses nearby. Montego is also near some of the great plantation houses of Jamaica, including Rose Hall, said to be haunted by the ghost of Annie Palmer, the “White Witch.”
Ocho Rios
Ocho Rios is nestled in a particularly lush part of Jamaica’s north coast with some of the island’s most famous attractions, including Dunn's River Falls, where the water cascades 600 feet into a pool right on the beach. Music fans should visit the town of Nine Mile in the mountains of St. Ann Parish, where Bob Marley was born. Gardeners will enjoy a drive through Fern Gully, a dense jungle of tropical foliage with more than 200 different species of ferns. Or, take a self-guided tour of Shaw Park botanical gardens, with 25 acres of tropical plants, flowers and trees – plus, a stunning view of the blue Caribbean.
To start planning a visit to Jamaica and other Caribbean islands via cruise ship, talk with Anita, your Cruise Holidays personal cruise expert.
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