Are you going on a Caribbean cruise? Don’t make these Caribbean cruise port mistakes. From booking the wrong shore excursions to forgetting your passport, these easily avoidable mistakes can quickly ruin your Caribbean cruise vacation.
Booking Non-Refundable Shore Excursions
One of the biggest mistakes you can make is booking non-refundable shore excursions. Caribbean cruise itineraries often change due to unforeseen circumstances, such as weather disruptions. Sudden torrential rainstorms or hurricanes can cause ports to be skipped. If you’ve booked non-refundable excursions, you could lose your money if your scheduled port is missed. Be sure to check for flexible options when planning your shore activities.
Getting Stuck in Rush Hour Traffic
One of the biggest mistakes you can make is underestimating how long it takes to get back to the cruise port. While the Caribbean may seem laid-back, don’t forget that they experience rush hour traffic just like anywhere else. If you’re exploring on your own, don’t wait until the last minute to grab a cab back to the port—you might risk missing the ship! Allow plenty of time to return.
For example, during a visit to Nassau, I almost missed the ship due to the heavy late-afternoon traffic. The bridge from Paradise Island became a bottleneck, and my cab ride back took twice as long as expected. Always give yourself plenty of time to avoid the stress of potentially being left behind.
Buy from the First Vendor You Encounter
Resist the urge to buy from the first vendor you come across. Caribbean cruise ports are filled with outdoor markets where multiple vendors sell the same souvenirs. To get the best deals, it’s a good idea to shop around and compare prices. The best bargains can often be found with vendors located farther from the cruise ship, so take the time to explore.
Not Bringing Your Passport
Always bring your passport with you when you leave the ship. While you might not need it to reboard, having your passport on hand is crucial if you miss the ship or need to catch a flight to the next port of call. If you’re traveling with children, don’t forget to bring their travel documents as well. It’s a small step that could save you a lot of stress in an emergency.
Assuming that Every Cruise Port is Safe
A common mistake many cruisers make is assuming that every port of call is safe. Just because your cruise ship stops at a particular destination doesn’t mean it’s free from risks. Several Caribbean ports have heightened travel advisories due to crime or safety concerns. Always check the latest travel advisories from the U.S. Department of State before you go. For example, the advisory for the Bahamas was raised to Level 2 due to crime and water safety issues. It’s smart to stay informed.
Port Agent
Each cruise line has a designated port agent at every port of call. This is the person to contact if you need assistance or if you miss the ship. The port agent’s contact information is typically provided on the map given to you by the shore excursion staff. Be sure to keep this information handy since it could prove invaluable in case of emergencies or unforeseen circumstances.
Don’t Wear Your Lanyard on Shore
Avoid wearing your cruise lanyard when you’re ashore, whether sightseeing, shopping, or relaxing at the beach. Wearing it makes you an obvious tourist and a potential target for thieves and pickpockets. Also, it can undermine your bargaining power when shopping, as vendors may be aware of your time constraints to return to the ship and use that to their advantage.
Leave Belongings Unattended at the Beach
When you’re at a Caribbean beach, it’s easy to forget that you’re in a public space. Many people make the mistake of leaving their belongings unattended, assuming they’re safe. Never leave valuables like your iPhone, wallet, or devices out in the open—they can easily be snatched. If you plan to swim, store your items in a beach bag with a zipper and make sure someone is watching it.
If that’s not possible, consider bringing your iPhone in a waterproof case. I like this waterproof pouch because it’s big and has a strap. Suburbs 101 participates in affiliate programs including the Amazon Associates Program and may earn from qualifying purchases at no extra cost to you.
As an extra precaution, leave most of your valuables in your cruise cabin safe. This way, you’ll have fewer things to worry about while you relax on the beach.
Not Researching Day Passes
Spending a day at the beach is a must when cruising in the Caribbean. Many cruise lines have shore excursions that include a day pass to a popular resort, such as Atlantis in Nassau. However, these packages are often the most expensive option. Fortunately, more affordable alternatives are available with a little research.
For example, in Nassau, you can buy day passes to British Colonial Nassau, which gives you access to a private beach, pool, and discounts on food and beverage—at a fraction of the cost of an Atlantis pass. This is a great choice if you’re looking for a quieter, less crowded spot, and it’s just a short walk from the port.
I’ve personally bought a day pass to the British Colonial Nassau with my family (see photo), and it was a great way to spend our port day. To find the best day passes for your Caribbean destination, I recommend using this website to get day passes. Suburbs 101 participates in affiliate programs and may earn from qualifying purchases at no extra cost to you.
Getting Drunk at Port
Caribbean cruise ports are filled with bars. Some shore excursions are essentially party boats, offering unlimited alcoholic beverages. While it may be tempting to indulge, it’s important to drink responsibly. Consuming alcohol in the sun can be dangerous, and excessive drinking can lead to missing the ship or trouble reboarding the ship. Enjoy your time, but always know your limits. Check out 8 Reasons Why Cruise Ship Beverage Packages are a Waste of Money
Not Mentally Prepared for the Worst
Don’t expect your Caribbean cruise to be filled with sunshine and perfect beach weather every day. The Caribbean’s weather can be unpredictable, and if you’re cruising during hurricane season, itinerary changes and missed ports are common. Always be prepared for the possibility of rainy weather or canceled stops. By keeping your expectations flexible and planning for the worst-case scenario, you’ll be better equipped to handle any unexpected changes. Check out The 8 Worst Mistakes to Make on a Caribbean Cruise During Hurricane Season
Getting Sunburned
The Caribbean sun can be deceptively intense, and it’s easy to underestimate its power. To avoid painful sunburns, make sure to apply sunscreen before stepping off the ship, even if you’re not heading to the beach. A wide-brimmed hat or a baseball cap is also a great way to protect your face from harmful UV rays. Trust me, you don’t want to spoil your vacation with a sunburn while on a Caribbean cruise! Check out What’s Better? Caribbean Cruise vs Bermuda Cruise (Pros and Cons)
Missing Out on Free Coupons
Many upscale shops at Caribbean cruise ports are known for giving free bracelets and charms, so don’t miss out on these freebies. Duty-free stores like Effy, Diamonds International, Tanzanite International, and Colombian Emeralds often distribute free coupons through shore excursion staff. These coupons can be redeemed for unique charms, often specific to each port of call. My teen daughter loves collecting them from every Caribbean cruise port, and it’s a fun way to remember each destination. Here is a photo of a free necklace from Effy. Check out Caribbean Cruise versus Alaska Cruise: Pros and Cons
Not Bringing Small Bills
A common mistake many cruisers make is not carrying enough small bills. Cash is essential for buying souvenirs at the local markets and for activities like getting your hair braided. When shopping at places like straw markets, it’s better to pay in cash rather than using a credit card, to keep your personal information secure. Make sure to bring small bills with you, although US dollars are widely accepted, you might receive change in local currency. The last thing you want is to end up with a pocketful of local currency! Check out What to Pack: Caribbean cruise (free packing list)