Those who understand Spanish may think this port is named for eight rivers; however the name is derived from another word, chorreras, meaning "waterfalls," which are a major attraction of the port. The most famous of these is Dunn's River Falls, located west of downtown. Adventurous travelers can climb the 600-foot drop, which takes about an hour, while others can wade in the river while enjoying the beauty of the water cascading over the limestone rocks. Other activities include snorkeling, river tubing, deep-sea fishing, horseback riding and Jeep excursions up Murray Hill for the sweeping view that includes the Blue Mountains and Cuba. You can also go shopping in the duty-free stores downtown.
Montego Bay is Jamaica's second largest city and is known as Mo Bay by the locals. If you like history with a twist, you may want to take a tour of Rose Hall Great House. This 18th-century mansion was the home of Annie Palmer, whose three husbands all died under mysterious circumstances. Mo Bay's Hip Strip may appeal to those interested in sun, sand, shopping, and alcoholic beverages. If you're looking for a place to dine, the Hip Strip is the location of Margaritaville Bar and Restaurant. Active travelers will find opportunities to go river rafting, horseback riding and snorkeling.
Those interested in history may want to make Falmouth their Jamaican port of call. You can stroll through the streets of the old town and admire the many buildings dating from the 18th and 19th centuries. You can also go farther afield for a tour of the restored Good Hope coconut and cattle plantation and take in its Great House, built in the classic Georgian style. If your stay extends into the evening, you might not want to miss the natural phenomenon known as the Luminous Lagoon. Microscopic organisms emit a glowing light whenever the water is stirred. You can board one of the tour boats that cruise the lagoon. For an even closer look, you can take a swim in the glowing waters.
With so much to see at the different ports, you may want an experienced guide to take you on one of the many possible adventures. Jamaica Cruise Excursions offers a number of tour packages tailored to cruise passengers. These include horseback riding on the beach, catamaran sailing and guided climbs up Dunn's River Falls. Ocho Rios and Montego Bay are the only Jamaican ports served by this tour company.
Jamaica Cruise Excursions
Island Marketing Ltd (Cayman)
C/O Montego Bay/Ocho Rios Division
P.O. Box 2183GT
Grand Cayman, Cayman Islands
jamaicacruiseexcursions.com
