Just a couple of days ago, summer officially began with the solstice on June 20, 2024. With the start of summer also comes sunshine – and with sunshine comes heat.
But for one couple who recently cruised on Carnival Valor, the conditions aboard the Conquest-class ship – particularly inside the staterooms – were too warm.
In a message sent to Carnival Brand Ambassador John Heald on Facebook, the unidentified passengers alleged that their cabin was too hot to sleep at night, and that the air conditioning was ineffective, claiming the coldest temperature their room ever reached was 69 degrees Fahrenheit, or about 21 degrees Celsius.
“Our room was always too warm for us at night. The coldest it ever got down to was 69. I used the Thermometer Plus app on my phone, and it is 100% accurate,” reads the post. “70 degrees is too hot for us to sleep.”
The passenger went on to say that they and their partner are both “fluffier people” who weigh around 400 pounds each, and because of the extra weight, they both tend to feel warm more easily – which they felt the cruise line was punishing them for.
“Yes, we are fluffy people, but we should not be punished for that,”continued the passenger.
The recent guest goes on to state that they always bring their own fan and choose a cabinwhere the air conditioning vents are near the end of the bed – which they claim are hard to find and is information Carnival needs to have clearly displayed on its website.
The disgruntled passenger then goes on to provide John with their theory for why the cabins get so hot.
“If you get a cabin where the bed is by the balcony, it feels warmer as the AC is further away from the bed…the reason why the rooms get so warm is because I think people keep the balcony doors open,”said the cruiser.
This theory suggests that some guests leaving their balconies open could affect other passenger accommodations, even rooms that kept their balcony door closed – which is simply not true as each cabin is insulated and has its own air conditioning system.
John Heald Responds To Air Conditioning Complaints
With summer underway, Heald decided to respond to the air conditioning post via a Facebook live video, which was posted on June 20, 2024, from his home in the UK.
He assured his followers that the AC onboardall 27 Carnival ships works well, and gave some possible reasons for the warmth, as well as solutions.
The first, potentially most obvious reason, is that it’s summer. The 2,990-passenger Carnival Valor is currently operating a series of 4 and 5-night Western Caribbean Cruises out of New Orleans, Louisiana, which is a region that is known to be quite hot.
During the summer, temperatures in the Caribbean average in the high 80s and low 90s (degrees Fahrenheit). Temperatures are also typically warmer in port than at sea because the air is not as cooled by the ocean.
Carnival Valor Cruise Ship (Photo Credit: James Andrews1 / Shutterstock)
“Sometimes, when the ship is in port, these temperatures can go up, not in the cabin. It does get warmer now, when the ship is alongside and the doors are open so the gangways can come out and the other doors are open, perhaps for some stores to be placed on board,”said Heald.
However, this should not impact the temperature in the cruise cabin, unless the balcony door is open. Heald advised that the air conditioning may also shut off if the balcony door is open for an extended period of time – but only in the specific cabin where the door is open.
“If you leave your balcony door open, it only affects the temperature in your cabin. It does not shut off the air in other cabins around, but it will turn off your air conditioning. So, please, if you’re in a balcony cabin, make sure your door is closed,”continuedHeald.
He also advised cruisers who prefer to keep things cooler to bring their own fans – most fans smaller than 12 inches in diameter are allowed – and to tell guest services if you are uncomfortable on your cruise.
“As much as I want to help you, there’s no point writing to me after the fact. Please do report on board. Call guest services and say ‘it’s a little warm in my cabin, do you think somebody can come check’ and they will,”added Heald.
Carnival’s ambassador isn’t able to problem solve for this couple since their sailing has concluded, but members of the 1,150-person crew likely would have been happy to assist if the passengers had asked for help.
Ask a Carnival Cruise Line fan about their favorite complimentary dining options across the cruise line’s fleet and you’ll likely hear the same answer over and over again: Guy’s Burger Joint.
Created with the help of Food Network superstar Guy Fieri, Guy’s Burger Joint has become almost synonymous with Carnival Cruise Line, but is this offering from the Mayor of Flavor Town worth the hype?
If you have an upcoming Carnival cruise and have never tried this eatery, here’s everything you need to know and what to expect.
What is Guy’s Burger Joint on Carnival Cruise Line?
Guy’s Burger Joint on Carnival Cruise Line is a complimentary, casual restaurant found aboard all of the cruise line’s ships, serving a handful of burgers and similarly casual fare.
While today, Guy’s Burger Joint may feel like it’s always been a part of Carnival Cruise Line, the restaurant actually got its start in 2011, when the cruise line announced that it would be adding the restaurant in collaboration with Guy Fieri to Carnival Liberty. Then, the restaurant would likewise be added to other ships, as they received renovations as part of the Fun Ship 2.0 initiative.
Guy’s Burger Joint on Carnival Mardi Gras
When it first debuted, Guy’s Burger Joint was intended to offer a handful of burger options, plus fresh-cut fries and recipes created exclusively for Carnival by Guy Fieri, according to Carnival Cruise Line’s original 2011 announcement.
The idea, though, was not to create just any burger joint. Beyond the burgers themselves, the restaurant would offer special condiments at two self-serve condiment and topping stations, and each station would offer suggested combinations crafted by Fieri.
While this concept has more or less remained the same since the restaurant’s inception, there have been some slight changes in recent years. Still, Guy’s Burger Joint remains a favorite across Carnival Cruise Line, with traveling fans planning entire cruises around being able to go to the restaurant.
The Guy’s Burger Joint Menu
So what’s on the menu?
Guy’s Burger Joint Menu
Similar to what you’ll find at many cruise ship complimentary restaurants, the menu is fairly straightforward and simple, with five burgers and hand-cut fries topped with Guy’s Signature Seasoning. But these are not your average burgers. In fact, they’ve been called some of the best burgers at sea.
The Plain Jane burger can be ordered with or without “super melty cheese” (or “SMC”). The Plain Jane burger is a simple 80/20 ground chuck patty on a grilled roll. From there, you can take the plain burger to one of the topping and condiment stations and customize it to your liking.
Then, there’s the Straight Up burger, which is topped with super melty cheese, lettuce, tomato, onion and pickle, plus donkey sauce, which is Guy Fieri’s “secret sauce.” (The donkey sauce isn’t anything out of this world, though. Fieri has told reporters what it is in the past, saying it’s just a blend of mayonnaise, garlic, mustard, Worcestershire sauce, salt and pepper.)
Guy’s Burger
The Ringer burger is a Straight Up burger but with a twist. It also includes a rojo ring (aka a crispy onion ring) and Guy’s bourbon and brown sugar-based barbecue sauce.
Then, there’s the Pig Patty burger, which is also a version of the Straight Up burger, but the change here is that the patty isn’t that 80/20 ground chuck that you’ll see on the other burgers. Instead, the patty is made out of crispy bacon.
Lastly, there’s the Chilius Maximus, which is the Straight Up burger, but without the lettuce, tomato, onion and pickle, and with the addition of an onion ring and chili.
So, all in all, this menu is pretty basic, but the further dining experience really helps cement the restaurant as a crowd favorite.
The Guy’s Burger Joint Experience
What all can you expect at this Carnival restaurant, in terms of experience?
The Decor
Long-time fans of Guy Fieri and his show Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives will automatically feel right at home when they step inside a Guy’s Burger Joint. Words and phrases that come to mind to describe the vibe include “roadside eatery,” “road trip restaurant” and “California cool.”
Guy’s Burger Joint, Carnival Cruise Line
The walls are covered in surfboards, car bumpers, car grilles, car hoods, license plates, road signs and chrome. The staff wear uniforms reminiscent of mechanic uniforms. Televisions play clips of Guy Fieri.
The Service
You can expect counter service at this restaurant, similar to a fast-food restaurant, but with better, faster service. While you may encounter a line at the restaurant, you usually don’t have to wait too long in line, to get your food (10 minutes tops).
Topping and Condiment Bars
In addition to the service counter and seating area (in many Guy’s Burger Joints, the seating area offers ocean views), the restaurants also feature two topping and condiment bars.
Originally, these bars offered chipotle mayo, barbecue sauce, garlic aioli, ketchup, multiple kinds of hot sauces, garlic and herb seasoning, sea salt, hot chili seasoning, sauteed mushrooms, caramelized onion, lettuce, tomato, raw onion, pickles, bacon and more.
Toppings Bar (Photo Credit: Eric Glenn)
However, in the past few years, cruisers have reported that Guy’s Burger Joint has really scaled back the number of toppings and condiments offered. For example, you might not be able to find sauteed mushrooms or bacon on the topping bar on your particular cruise.
This hasn’t been the only change in recent years, either; some cruisers have reported that the restaurant’s fries just aren’t what they used to be, citing supply chain issues. Others say the burger patties have declined in quality as well.
Specialty Diets
Following a specialty diet and want to know if you can eat at Guy’s Burger Joint?
For those with gluten sensitivities, they’ll be glad to know that the restaurant does offer a gluten-free bun, and that past cruisers have reported that the restaurant uses a separate fryer to cook its fries, meaning that the fries are gluten-free as well.
Guy’s Burger Joint Venue (Photo Credit: Eric Glenn)
You can also get a veggie burger at Guy’s Burger Joint, but you must make a special request. It’s not on the regular menu. If you don’t want to wait for the staff to cook you up a regular onboard (Non-Guiy Fieri) veggie burger, you can let Carnival Cruise Line know ahead of time that you plan on eating at Guy’s Burger Joint during your cruise, and when, and they’ll stock the burger for you.
Special Menu Items
Beyond the typical menu items offered at Guy’s Burger Joint, fleet-wide, you can also sometimes find special menu items on select ships or itineraries. For example, restaurant outposts on Carnival Cruise Line’s Italian-style ships (Carnival Venezia and Carnival Firenze) offer some Italian-style burgers that feature pizza toppings like pepperoni and mozzarella.
Carnival Venezia Cruise Ship (Photo Credit: Mariusz Lopusiewicz / Shutterstock)
Additionally, occasionally Guy’s Burger Joint will offer limited-time special menu items, like in 2022, when the restaurant offered a Funderstruck Nacho Burger topped with nacho seasoning, beans, tortilla strips, fried jalapenos and pico de gallo.
Opening Hours
While the restaurant’s opening hours may differ according to your particular cruise ship, itinerary and the day, most often, the restaurant is open to serve lunch and early dinner from noon to 6 p.m. However, check the Carnival HUB app for up-to-date information.
Guy’s Burger Joint Breakfast
Guy’s Burger Joint restaurants on some Carnival cruise ships now also serve breakfast. While this isn’t the case across every single ship with the restaurant, many cruisers report that breakfast at Guy’s Burger Joint can consistently be found on the newer Carnival Cruise Line ship, Mardi Gras.
So, what kind of breakfast goodies does Guy Fieri offer?
Carnival’s Burger Joint Logo (Photo Credit: Eric Glenn)
The menu includes several breakfast sandwich options, and all breakfast options come with home fries. The Plain Joe sandwich features that 80/20 ground chuck beef patty, two fried eggs, super melty cheese, cheddar cheese and maple-infused donkey sauce on a toasted bun.
The All American is similar, but with the additions of bacon, tomato and a hash brown patty. The Prime Time Turkey sandwich features a turkey breakfast sausage patty, maple gravy, provolone cheese, bacon, a hash brown patty and maple donkey sauce, all on a French toast bun.
Lastly, the Good Morning Morgan is a veggie-friendly breakfast sandwich that features a patty made from a roasted veggie frittata and topped with tomato, hash browns and maple donkey sauce, on a toasted bun.
You can often find Guy’s Burger Joint on the ships’ Lido decks, mid-ship, near the pool, as well as often near the RedFrog Rum bar and the buffet.
This all makes for a very convenient location if you just want a quick, casual bite after a morning spent swimming in the pool, and you don’t want to walk very far and you’d like to get back to swimming as quickly as possible, or if you want to grab lunch and then a drink.
You don’t have to eat your food in the restaurant, either. You can also take it to your sun lounger at the pool, or to the buffet, if others in your party are eating there.
Does Guy’s Burger Joint Deliver?
While Guy’s Burger Joint might not deliver to your cruise cabin or suite, for a limited time, Guy’s Burger Joint did deliver to your doorstep! In 2021, Carnival Cruise Line ran a promotion, offering the restaurant’s Straight Up burger through Uber Eats, Postmates, DoorDash, Grubhub, Bite Squad and Waitr, for a limited tie.
Buy’s Burger and Fries
The cruise line said that this offering was in response to the pandemic-related pause in cruising, and how so many Guy’s Burger Joint fans were left craving what had quickly become the most beloved burger at sea.
At the time, Carnival Cruise Line claimed that Guy’s Burger Joint could serve upward of a thousand burgers per day, or 8 million burgers per year across the fleet. As of 2023, that number has increased to more than 10 million burgers per year.
Virgin Voyages has announced its first-ever comedy festival will be added to its lineup in 2024. Launching aboard the Resilient Lady, the unique event will take place from September 14 to 19, 2024, and will feature a collection of renowned U.K. comedians, including Russell Howard, Andre Vincent, and Ria Lina.
Passengers on the five-night voyage departing from Portsmouth, England, will enjoy performances by these comedy stars and up-and-coming talents each night, as well as an in-house performance of “The Dark Room.”
The world’s only live-action video game show, “The Dark Room” is an interactive comedy show created and hosted by John Robertson in a surreal dungeon setting where the audience makes decisions that affect the outcome.
“It’s an unmissable voyage where laughter meets luxury and Sailors will get to experience our usual lineup of award-winning entertainment, five-star dining, and always-luxury accommodations while being part of Virgin Voyages history on our first-ever comedy sailing,”said the cruise line owned by Virgin Group.
Virgin Voyages inaugural comedy festival aboard Resilient Lady will be headlined by Howard, who gained popularity with “Russell Howard’s Good News” on the BBC. Joining Howard is Vincent, who began his career as a circus performer before transitioning to stand-up comedy. He’s appeared on various TV shows, including “The Sunday Show” and “Live at Jongleurs.”
Rounding out the lineup is Lina, a British comedian, writer, and actress who has earned nominations and awards, including the EMMA Award for Best Comedian.
A Hub of Entertainment
Resilient Lady is the newest addition to the Virgin Voyages fleet. Debuting in late 2023, it followed sisters Scarlet Lady and Valiant Lady and accommodates 2,770 passengers. Featuring over 1,400 cabins and suites, the 110,000-gross-ton ship features a variety of dining options, from gourmet restaurants to casual eateries.
Entertainment on board beyond comedy includes vibrant nightlife options, immersive theater experiences, and a lineup of live music performances around the ship. Its popular Scarlet Night features a red theme and parties across the entire fleet.
The comedy festival cruise will stop in Amsterdam, home to several comedy festivals and events, such as the Boom Chicago Comedy Festival, featuring a mix of stand-up, improv, and sketch comedy. Venues like Comedy Café and Toomler also showcase established and rising stars to keep the laughs going on shore.
Scarlet Night on Virgin Cruises (Photo Credit: AVOXY)
The cruise will also visit the fairytale city of Brugges in Belgium, renowned for its medieval architecture.
Virgin Voyages continues to innovate cruising with Virgin Group’s Sir Richard Branson bringing his unique flair. Ahead of the summer cruise season, Branson himself surprised guests with free cruises during an airport terminal takeover and a flight to Puerto Rico and another on the streets of London in a red double-decker bus.
In July, it will bring back its popular Eat & Drink Festival. Spanning two months, the third annual culinary event showcases international flavors, unique pairings, and gourmet meals prepared by world-renowned chefs.
The cruise line also offered a Season Pass to allow passengers to book multiple cruises throughout the season at a reduced rate, as well as opportunities to Work From Helm on month-long cruises with high-speed internet.
Resorts World Bimini’s Fisherman’s Village, just a short distance from the Resorts World Bimini Cruise Port, has completed its final expansion at the open-air, island-themed shopping center in the Bahamas.
The central hub for shopping has expanded its reef-themed retail offerings to support the more than one million passengers who have visited the cruise port since its opening in 2021.
Fisherman’s Village now features various boutiques, including Beach Essentials, The Reef, Home Reef, Reef Fit, Splash, Elephant Gem, Reef Joint, and the latest addition, Rainbow Reef.
Fisherman’s Village at Resorts World Bimini (Photo Courtesy: Resorts World Bimini)
“Fisherman’s Village has been carefully curated to provide a unique and elevated shopping experience for all visitors, whether staying at our resort or visiting via cruise,”said Robert DeSalvio, president of Genting Americas East, which owns Resorts World.
“The boutiques at Fisherman’s Village are named for our love and respect for Bimini’s vast marine life, which brings visitors near and far to discover our corner of the world,” he added. “We hope for all who come to Bimini to find a feeling of comfort and enjoyment at Fisherman’s Village.”
The retail offerings at Fisherman’s Village now include an array of stores catering to different interests. Beach Essentials provides necessary items for beachgoers, while The Reef and Home Reef offer a selection of home goods.
Reef Fit focuses on athleisure wear and athletic goods, and Splash offers various women’s clothing and resort wear. Elephant Gem presents unique jewelry options.
Reef Joint, which provides gourmet snacks and souvenirs, and Rainbow Reef, which features tie-dye and colorful clothing and beach necessities, are the last two additions.
The center also features the Healing Hole restaurant, which offers Bahamian cuisine and specialty island cocktails, with live music daily. Guests can access Fisherman’s Village via a complimentary trolley that runs every 10 to 15 minutes from the cruise port.
Open-Air Market for Major Cruise Lines
Located on the seven-mile island of Bimini, Fisherman’s Village is a part of Resorts World Bimini, a 305-room hotel with four pools, 16 restaurants and bars, and a casino.
Following the completion of the Resorts World Bimini Cruise Port three years ago, major cruise lines such as Carnival Cruise Line, Celebrity Cruises, Royal Caribbean, Virgin Voyages, Holland America, Norwegian Cruise Line, and MSC Cruises have been docking regularly.
Cruise Ship Docked in Bimini
Genting Group also operates two cruises through its Resorts World Cruises, which launched in 2022 in Asia. Cruises depart from Dubai, United Arab Emirates; Hong Kong; Jakarta, Indonesia; Keelung, Taiwan; Port Klang, Malaysia; and Singapore.
Although its own cruise ships will not be sailing to Bimini, it does operate the 3,348-passenger, 150,695-gross-ton Genting Dream and the 1,856-passenger, 75,338-gross-ton Resorts World One.
Hundreds of passengers will enjoy the finished open-air market at the official opening on June 21. Carnival Cruise Line’s Carnival Glory and Carnival Conquest; Royal Caribbean’s Allure of the Seas, Adventure of the Seas, Freedom of the Seas, and Symphony of the Seas; Norwegian Cruise Line’s Norwegian Gem; Virgin Voyages’ Valiant Lady; MSC Cruises’ MSC Magnifica; and Celebrity Cruises’ Celebrity Reflection are currently scheduled to visit Bimini this month.
Princess Cruises, the brand behind the beloved television show, “The Love Boat,” which aired from 1977 to 1986, is inviting guests to enjoy a second Love Boat-themed cruise, complete with intimate one-on-ones with the original cast members.
Princess Cruises became a household name after the debut of “The Love Boat’s” pilot episode in 1977, set aboard the original Sun Princess in Mexico.
Running for 10 seasons as one of the highest-rated prime-time television shows in the U.S., the cruise line’s Pacific Princess and Island Princess took viewers around the globe to exotic destinations like Sydney, the Great Wall of China, and the Acropolis in Athens.
Now, guests can find romance aboard this special Love Boat-themed cruise, traveling from New York City to Canada and New England destinations. Scheduled from August 31 to September 7, 2024, aboard the 145,000-gross-ton Enchanted Princess, 3,660 passengers will sail with cast members from the iconic series.
First reuniting with Princess Cruises in 1997 for a naming and christening ceremony for Dawn Princess and then again in 2014 to celebrate the cruise line’s 50th anniversary, the cast of the television show first sailed with guests on a special Love Boat-themed cruise in 2022 to celebrate the life of Gavin MacLeod (Captain Stubing). MacLeod had served as brand ambassador to Princess Cruises for more than 35 years before his passing in 2021.
Courtesy: Princess Cruises
“After the tremendous outpouring of love on the first themed cruise, we knew we had to create an exclusive experience for our super fans on the upcoming voyage,” said Jill Whelan, who played the captain’s daughter Vicki Stubing and now serves as the Celebrations Ambassador for Princess Cruises.
This second themed adventure will include Whelan and fellow cast members Bernie Kopell (Doc), Fred Grandy (Gopher), and Ted Lange (Isaac). Ezra Freeman, known from the reality series “The Real Love Boat,” will also join the fun.
“My castmates and I are highly anticipating the upcoming cruise, where we’ll be able to spend more time with these passionate cruisers and fans and we can’t wait to hear how the show impacted their lives,” Whelan continued.
Nostalgic Activities and VIP Package
The Love Boat-themed cruise features a range of activities for all passengers, ensuring a nostalgic experience. The sail-away party from Enchanted Princess’ homeport in New York will introduce the cast, and multiple meet-and-greet photo opportunities will take place throughout the 7-day journey that will call in Boston; Eastport, Maine; and Saint John and Halifax, Canada.
Lange and Freeman will also host a cocktail demonstration, while Whelan and Enchanted Princess’ Captain Nick Nash will officiate a symbolic renewal of vows ceremony for guests wishing to reaffirm their love.
Photo Courtesy: Princess Cruises
Episodes of “The Love Boat” will be shown on the ship’s Movies Under the Stars screen and in staterooms. There will also be show trivia sessions, specialty cocktails, and themed décor and merchandise available throughout the cruise.
Passengers aboard this special cruise can opt for a VIP package for an additional $450. It features several exclusive experiences, including a cocktail party where fans can perfect Isaac’s famous finger point, reserved seating for a Q&A session with the cast, and front-of-line access for meet and greets.
Other VIP highlights include dinner with the cast, a Love Boat T-shirt and mug, and a signed cast photo.
Whether you’re embarking on a Jamaican cruise or visiting the island as only one of the many ports of call on your itinerary, there is a good chance that you will be visiting Montego Bay Cruise Port.
Known as “Mo-Bay” among locals, Montego Bay, Jamaica, is often viewed as a gateway to the island nation’s vibrant culture, stunning natural landscape, and countless thrilling adventures.
Whether you’re just in Montego Bay for a day trip or starting your cruise vacation there, you will want to familiarize yourself with the Montego Bay Cruise Port. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about the port, the surrounding attractions, and how to stay safe while you enjoy your stay.
Montego Bay Cruise Port, also known as Montego Bay Freeport, is Jamaica’s second-largest cruise port. It is conveniently located just under 3 miles west of downtown Montego Bay, providing cruise passengers easy access to the city’s numerous hotels, resorts, and exciting attractions.
As the second largest port in Jamaica, Montego Bay Cruise Port has four berths, enabling it to handle as many as four full-sized cruise ships simultaneously. However, as the terminal building and other facilities are relatively small, there are rarely more than three cruise ships in port at any given time.
Montego Bay Cruise Port is home to only a single dedicated cruise terminal building, but it is fairly large. There are plans to redevelop the building and potentially add a second, but as of now, it has fairly basic amenities, especially compared to some of the more modern terminal buildings you find in some of the Caribbean’s other popular destinations.
Montego Bay Cruise Port Address:
The port can be found at F366 Mantica Way, Montego Bay, Jamaica, W.I.
Cruise Lines and Terminal Facilities
The Montego Bay Cruise Port is one of the most popular destinations in the Caribbean, so it is no surprise that it caters to some of the most reputable cruise lines in the world.
These include Carnival Cruise Lines, MSC Cruises, Royal Caribbean, Princess Cruises, Norwegian Cruise Line, Cunard Line, and others.
Montego Bay Cruise Port and Pier (Photo Credit: Viktor Hladchenko)
Once cruise ships dock at Montego Bay Freeport, passengers will see the single large terminal building, which serves as the central hub of activity in the port. As stated, it may lack the modernity of some of its Caribbean counterparts, but it still features a duty-free shop, a tourist information center, lockers, and numerous restrooms.
There are also waiting and rest areas that allow visitors to relax and enjoy an air-conditioned escape from Jamaica’s hot and humid temperatures.
Unfortunately, Montego Bay Cruise Port lacks free Wi-Fi, but a few nearby restaurants and resorts offer It to paying customers.
Transportation and Port Accessibility
As mentioned, the port is relatively close to the downtown core of Montego Bay, Jamaica’s fourth-largest city by population. Since the city is such a popular destination for cruise ship passengers looking to enjoy duty-free shopping and experience Jamaica’s famed culture first-hand, it works out well that transportation between the port and the city is quick and straightforward.
The most common way to get between the two destinations is to take one of the many licensed taxis stationed immediately outside the port in a well-marked taxi pickup and drop-off loop. In most cases, fares will hover around $5 per ride, but it is highly recommended that you do not get into an unmarked cab.
Vehicles at the Cruise Port (Photo Credit: Debbie Ann Powell)
Although Uber extended its availability to Montego Bay in 2021, it is mainly used by locals due primarily to safety concerns, as licensed cabs are vetted by the government and are far more trustworthy.
Travelers can also get into the city via a Hot Spot Shuttle, which transports passengers to and from the port to the historical center of Montego Bay.
While the shuttle is cheaper than a taxi and comes fairly frequently, you can spend a significant amount of time in line if you arrive at the port on a hectic day. Some cruise lines, including Carnival, offer their own shuttles, but it is best to consult with your cruise line beforehand to make sure.
Unfortunately, walking between the city and the cruise port is highly discouraged. While three miles may not seem like an overly lengthy walk, there is no shade or clearly marked path, so you would be walking along busy roads. Crime is also a concern when visiting the country, so it is not recommended that visitors wander off to less populated areas.
Distance from the Airport
If Montego Bay Cruise Port is listed as the point of embarkation or disembarkation for your cruise, you will most likely need to fly into Jamaica. Fortunately, Montego Bay Cruise Port is located just 4.3 miles away from Sangster International Airport (MBJ).
Like transportation between the port and the city, taking a licensed taxi is the most popular way to get between the airport and the cruise port. While a 4.3-mile journey may sound like it would just take about 10 minutes, you will want to give yourself more time, as traffic can be a major concern around Montego Bay, especially if you arrive during rush hour.
Sangster International Airport (Photo Credit: Debbie Ann Powell)
For those staying longer, it is possible to rent a car. If you are looking to drive yourself and get to the Montego Bay Cruise Port from Sangster International Airport, you would simply follow Queens Drive until you reach the Howard Cooke Highway.
After driving along the highway for 3.1 miles, you would exit onto Alice Eldemire Drive. After a mile, you would then see signs for the Montego Bay Cruise Port, which is along Mantica Way.
Safety Concerns and Recommendations for Visiting Montego Bay
Unfortunately, Montego Bay suffers from high rates of violent crime, which has led to heightened security measures, especially surrounding the city’s most popular tourist destinations.
While the added police presence helps keep visiting cruise ship passengers safe, it is still important that individuals prioritize their own safety while they are in the city and the surrounding area.
View of TUI Cruise Ship in Montego Bay (Photo Credit: Debbie Ann Powell)
To ensure a safe and enjoyable visit, stick to authorized and licensed tourist services. Avoid unmarked taxis, and do not wander away from your group if you have signed up for an excursion. Practicing common-sense safety measures, like avoiding exploring the city while wearing valuables, is also essential.
Try to keep a fairly low profile and avoid secluded areas of the city, especially at night. Regardless of the time of day, you should also avoid the city’s most dangerous places. For Montego Bay, this means avoiding the inland side of the A1 Highway.
Pickpocketing can also be a concern, especially in crowded areas. Keep money, credit cards, and other valuables close to your body, preferably in zippered or inner pockets. As with any port of call, you should also have a list of emergency contacts on you, including contact information for your specific cruise line.
Remember, Montego Bay can be an incredible city to visit and explore, but you must prioritize your safety.
Nearby Beaches
To help you get the most out of your visit to Montego Bay Cruise Port, we will provide you with a detailed breakdown of things to do, including beaches you should visit and walking-distance amenities you should make time for.
Montego Bay offers more than just its notoriously vibrant cityscape. Surrounding the city and its cruise port, you will find pristine beaches with the ideal setting for enjoying Caribbean sunshine.
Unfortunately, many of the closest beaches are privately owned by the resorts, so a day pass is required to enjoy them. With that said, some genuinely world-class public beaches can be reached with a short cab ride.
Doctor’s Cave Beach
Just over 3 miles from Montego Bay Cruise Port, you’ll find the tropical paradise of Doctors Cave Beach. While walking to the beach is not a safe or enjoyable option, a short cab ride will take you to one of Jamaica’s most visited beaches.
Doctor’s Cave Beach (Photo Credit: CO Leong)
With pure white sand and crystal-clear waters that have that uniquely Caribbean turquoise tint, this five-mile-long beach is a must-see. The famous beach gets its name from a story by British doctor Sir Herbert Baker, who claimed that the waters could cure injuries and ailments. Even if you doubt this somewhat dubious claim, there’s no doubt that relaxing on this picture-perfect beach is a guaranteed way to de-stress.
You’ll also find plenty of snorkeling and scuba diving outfits operating from the beach and numerous beachside restaurants, bars, and cafés.
Dead End Beach
If you drive half a mile north of Doctor’s Cave Beach, you’ll reach Dead End Beach, also affectionately known as Buccaneer Beach amongst the locals. While the beach shares the same white sand and turquoise waters as Doctor’s Cave Beach, it’s a bit more rustic and tends to be less crowded.
Dead End Beach (Photo Credit: Abe wein)
Its close proximity to the airport also allows those lounging on the beach to watch the planes come in, which can be surprisingly relaxing. Catching a plane flying low above the palm trees also makes for a great photograph.
The beach tends to be more popular with locals than Doctor’s Cave Beach, so it has a more authentic Jamaican atmosphere. Unlike many beaches along Montego Bay’s coast, it’s completely free to access.
Distance to Popular Attractions
If beaches aren’t your thing, don’t worry; plenty of other things to do are just a short commute from the Montego Bay Cruise Port.
The Hip Strip and Margaritaville Montego Bay
Located roughly 3 miles from the port, you can find the Hip Strip. This vibrant area of town is bustling with shops, street vendors, restaurants, and plenty of entertainment venues. It’s also close to the iconic Doctor’s Cave Beach.
Margaritaville (Photo Credit: Debbie Ann Powell)
Right at the north end of the Hip Strip, you’ll also find Margaritaville Montego Bay, which is much more than a typical bar. With waterslides, beach loungers, live music, and excellent views of the water, you won’t want to miss this Montego Bay favorite.
Rastafari Indigenous Village
You can find the Rastafari Indigenous Village about four and a half miles inland from the cruise port. Day tours of this traditional Jamaican village allow visitors to learn about the Rastafari way of life.
From cooking classes that use all locally grown ingredients to drum circles and walks through the pristine gardens, a visit can be a peaceful and memorable escape from the hustle and bustle of a crowded cruise ship.
Rose Hall Great House
If you’re willing to spend closer to half an hour in a taxi, the Rose Hall Great House is located 11.5 miles from the port. This former plantation features the unique Jamaican Georgian architecture that was popular at the time of its construction.
Rose Hall Great House (Photo Credit: Debbie Ann Powell)
Built in the 1770s, the Rose Hall Great House is incredibly well-preserved and now functions as a museum open to the public. In addition to being incredibly interesting, the house and its numerous exhibits offer stunning views of its rolling gardens and the Caribbean Sea in the distance.
Plus, those fond of the supernatural can learn about Annie Palmer, the White Witch of Rose Hall. According to the story, the famous building is haunted by the ghost of its former occupant.
Falmouth
Twenty-two miles from the port, you can visit Falmouth. This coastal town is one of Jamaica’s other cruise port locations, and it sits between Ocho Rios and Montego Bay, so it is popular with cruise ship passengers visiting Jamaica for a short time.
Falmouth Cruise Port (Photo Credit: A. Emson)
The well-preserved Georgian architecture in the town’s historic district will transport you back to a Caribbean colonial outpost. The town is also packed with art galleries, restaurants, and more, so it is definitely worth exploring.
Dunn’s River Falls and Park
For those hoping to drive to Jamaica’s World-Famous Dunn’s River Falls, Falmouth also serves as a good departure point, as many tour and excursion companies operate out of the town. Dunn’s River Falls is one of the country’s national treasures, as well as one of the most frequently visited tourist attractions.
Dunn’s River Falls (Photo Credit: Brian Luke Seaward)
The water flowing over the picture-perfect falls are loaded with minerals that are picked up from the river’s travertine rock bed. The uniquely dome-shaped rocks that the water flows over as it travels down the falls give the waterfalls a beautiful appearance, but since they are not jagged, they also make it possible to climb the falls.
In addition to splashing in the pool at the bottom of the falls, or trying to climb the falls, there is also a park that features a zip-lining course, splash pad, and gift shop.
There’s also a hiking trail that takes roughly an hour to complete, but it offers some amazing views of the falls. Part of the hike includes a staircase alongside the falls, which is a good option for those who do not want to get into the water.
Dining Near Montego Bay Cruise Port
One of the most exciting parts about visiting Montego Bay is having the opportunity to sample authentic Jamaican cuisine. With the city being one of Jamaica’s main culinary hubs, there are plenty of food stalls and restaurants showcasing iconic Jamaican dishes, like jerk chicken, Jamaican patties, Jamaican-style stewed pork, rice and peas, and more fresh seafood than you could ever dream of.
Restaurant terrace at Doctor’s Cave Beach Club (Photo Credit: Debbie Ann Powell)
The Hip Strip is a great place to start if you would like to walk around and sample as many dishes as possible, but those looking to stay close to the cruise port should make time to visit the HouseBoat Grill, which is less than a 10-minute walk from the port. Make sure you make a reservation online ahead of time, as the patio fills up quickly!
For a more casual dining experience, Sweet Spice Restaurant is located just 1 mile away from the port. It offers huge servings of class Jamaican dishes at fair prices.
Shopping Near Montego Cruise Port
For shopping enthusiasts, Montego Bay offers plenty of options. As a major duty-free shopping hub, you’ll find duty-free goods on offer around the cruise port and within the city.
You can also peruse the city’s bustling markets or stick closer to the port to shop in more upscale stores. As with the dining scene, the hip strip tends to be the place to go if you want a wide array of stores and vendors; plus, it’s safer than some of the city’s other shopping hubs.
Shopping at Montego Bay (Photo Credit: stbar1964)
If you are looking for a uniquely Jamaican souvenir, you’ll discover no shortage of street vendors selling handmade goods. If you’re unsure what to purchase, we recommend getting a bag of beans from Blue Mountain Coffee, which is considered one of the best coffees in the world.
Jamaican rum is also world-renowned, so a trip to the Appleton Estate Rum Store in Montego Bay is an excellent way to taste and pick up a bottle to bring home.
If you do plan on shopping, it is worth noting that the local currency is the Jamaican Dollar. Most vendors will also accept American Dollars on a 1:1 ratio. If you are shopping in a more established store, you should not have any trouble paying with one of the major credit cards, like Visa or Mastercard.
The Best Time to Visit Montego Bay
While personal preferences always play a role, the best time to visit Montego Bay and Jamaica more generally tends to be between December and March. This is because the weather is most pleasant, and rainfall and storms are minimal. Visiting during these months also means you will get plenty of sunshine, but humidity will be more manageable.
View of Montego Bay, Jamaica (Photo Credit: Nathalia_Guaus_Patricio)
Just remember that prices can go up during these busier months, so you may want to book early or try to book during wave season and some of the major sales periods, like Cyber Monday and Labor Day.
Seasonal Weather Conditions
Here is some basic seasonal information for Montego Bay to help you determine which season is best for you.
Spring (March to May)
Daytime temperatures tend to sit between 82 and 88°F. The warm temperatures also come with relatively low rainfall, especially in the early spring. This makes the spring months an ideal time for visiting Montego Bay.
Summer (June to August)
Temperatures rise to between 85 and 92°F, which can be somewhat uncomfortable for some visitors, especially when you consider the high humidity. Travelers should also be prepared for frequent but brief showers and occasional thunderstorms.
The summer also marks the onset of hurricane season in the Caribbean, so there is a much higher risk of serious tropical storms. Make sure you frequently check with your cruise line about potential delays or changes to the itinerary if you have booked during the summer.
Fall (September to November)
In the fall, temperatures drop back to the 82 to 87°F range. The earlier fall months can see tropical storms and hurricanes, so you might want to consider travel insurance to protect against costly disruptions.
Winter (December to February)
Temperatures drop down to between 80 and 85°F during the winter. Humidity levels also decline, as do rainfall and the risk of severe storms. With clear skies, pleasant temperatures, and little rain, it is no wonder the winter months are some of Montego Bay’s busiest.
If you plan on enjoying water sports and outdoor activities, such as horseback riding, golfing, and river rafting, you may want to consider visiting during the winter or early spring.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is there anything to do in Montego Bay Port?
Montego Bay Cruise Port offers a range of activities, including shopping and dining; however, most people leave the port to explore the city or visit one of the nearby beaches or rural attractions.
Where does a cruise ship dock in Jamaica?
Cruise ships dock at Montego Bay Freeport, approximately 3 miles west of downtown Montego Bay.
What is the safest way to get around Jamaica?
The safest way to get around Jamaica is by taking an authorized taxi or traveling through a licensed and vetted tour or excursion operator. Travelers should exercise caution and avoid walking long distances, particularly in unfamiliar areas.
If you book an excursion, we recommend booking through your cruise line, as this will ensure that they have been properly vetted.
Holland America Line is adding a delicious twist to its cruises by partnering with Lindt & Sprüngli, the creators of the beloved Lindor truffles and the leading premium chocolate brand in the US.
This exciting collaboration promises to elevate the onboard experience with an array of chocolate-themed treats and exclusive desserts, making every voyage a true indulgence for chocolate lovers.
The partnership between Holland America Line and Lindt is grounded in a shared passion for delivering exceptional quality and experiences. This union will be across all 11 Holland America cruise ships, with eager guests having new chocolate options to look forward to.
Melissa Mendoza, vice president of marketing at Lindt & Sprüngli (USA), highlighted the synergy between the two brands:“Holland America Line’s dedication to extraordinary service mirrors the meticulous craftsmanship behind Lindt chocolate, where the fusion of the finest ingredients creates an unparalleled indulgent experience.
The partnership between Holland America Line and Lindt presents a remarkable chance for the Lindt LINDOR brand to connect with travellers passionate about cuisine and attract a new generation of LINDOR fans with unforgettable brand moments,”Mendoza added.
Starting this summer, guests aboard Holland America Line cruises can look forward to an array of special chocolate treats. On Gala Night, passengers will be treated to a “Sweet Dreams” turndown service, featuring Lindt LINDOR milk chocolate truffles or Sea Salt milk chocolate truffles in their cabins. This small yet thoughtful gesture aims to provide guests with a comforting and luxurious end to their day at sea.
Chocolate lovers will find themselves in paradise with the introduction of the tulip-shaped Lindt chocolate mousse cake, a nod to Holland America Line’s Dutch roots.
This signature dessert is already available on the Rotterdam’s Dutch Day dinner menu and will be rolled out across the entire fleet by August 2024. The cake, with its rich and creamy texture, promises to be a highlight of the dining experience, offering a taste of Lindt’s signature quality.
In addition to the mousse cake, a Lindt Sundae will make its debut, complete with vanilla ice cream and a custom-made Lindt chocolate sauce.
World Chocolate Day Looming
Just in time for World Chocolate Day, starting on July 7, 2024, Holland America Line will unveil a special Lindt Flourless Chocolate Cake, created in collaboration with Lindt’s Master Chocolatier, Ann Czaja. This indulgent cake, which is both rich and gluten-free, will be featured on the Dining Room menu for cruises lasting more than seven days.
It will be a highlight of the new ‘Cake Me Away’ program, which showcases over 22 different five-layer cakes in 16 flavors, promising to satisfy even the most discerning sweet tooth.
Holland America Line and Lindt Partnership
Michael Stendebach, vice president of the food, beverage, and rooms division for Holland America Line, expressed his excitement about the new partnership:“We’re thrilled to align ourselves with Lindt, a globally beloved brand and one of the world’s leading chocolatiers, to launch an initiative that represents our deep connection to Europe and elevates the culinary experience on board. We hope our guests take the opportunity to indulge in all the special moments this partnership offers.”
The partnership between Holland America Line and Lindt is more than just a treat for the taste buds; it’s an experience that brings together the luxury of cruising with the decadence of fine chocolate.
As the summer season approaches, guests can expect not only delicious desserts but also a series of chocolate-themed events and activities. This collaboration with Lindt promises to transform each cruise into a voyage of sweetness and indulgence, ensuring that every moment spent on board is as delightful as the destinations themselves.
Whether it’s a simple truffle at turndown or a sophisticated dessert at dinner, the partnership between Holland America Line and Lindt is set to make waves in the world of luxury cruising.
Looking to entice more cruisers into booking its Princess Plus and Princess Premier packages, Princess Cruises rolled out a lucrative perk to members of its Captain’s Circle loyalty plan.
On cruises departing between August 1, 2024 and December 1, 2024, the Captain’s Circle Loyalty Accelerator program will award guests double the cruise credits they normally would receive.
The line’s loyalty program tiers are based on the number of cruises or cruise days a guest sails. Under the promotion, a 7-day voyage will translate into an award of 14 days, for instance, enabling a guest to rack up more days and move up the tiers faster.
“Princess Premier and Princess Plus are the best way to experience Princess and offer the best value in the vacation business,” said John Padgett, president of Princess Cruises.
“The Loyalty Accelerator Program gives our most valued guests even more reasons to sail with our industry-leading bundles,” Padgett added.
Princess Cruises, a premium brand owned by Carnival Corporation, offers four Captain’s Circle levels.
The Gold level, reached after sailing just one cruise, provides guests with early access to new itineraries; preferential pricing offers; members-only onboard events; and access to a Circle Host on board.
Ruby level, achieved after three cruises or 30 cruise days, entitles guests to exclusive shoreside access to the Captain’s Circle Help Desk phone line; and a Princess Platinum Vacation Protection upgrade that includes a 100% cancellation benefit.
The Platinum tier, reached after five cruises or 50 cruise days, provides guests with 50% off the line’s MedallionNet package; early access to dining reservations; 10% off Lotus Spa treatments; and a 10% discount in the Photo Gallery.
The top level, Elite, awarded to guests who have been on 15 cruises or sailed 150 cruise days, entitles guests to discounts on retail products sold onboard and on shore excursions; priority tender embarkation; a complimentary Grapevine Wine Tasting Event; free mini-bar setup and afternoon tea in stateroom; priority disembarkation; complimentary laundry services and shoe polishing, and other services.
What The Princess Plus And Premier Packages Offer
Guests can save money by booking either the Princess Premier or Princess Plus packages compared to buying the same services or amenities piecemeal.
Princess Plus, at a cost of $60 per person, per day, covers MedallionNet 2.0 with Starlink and 5G for one device; cocktails, wine, and beer up to $15 each; unlimited non-alcoholic beverages; crew tips; two premium desserts per day; free OceanNow delivery and room service; “Green Lane” boarding; and two fitness classes per sailing.
Princess Premier costs $80 per person, per day, and includes all of the Plus amenities in addition to two nights of specialty dining, higher savings in the beverage package, reserved seating in the Princess Theater, Unlimited MedallionNet 2.0 with Starlink and 5G for up to four devices, and an Unlimited Digital Photo Package.
Some of the perks are fairly new. In July 2023, Princess Cruises announced the addition of some bonus services to the Plus and Premier plans. Starting with departures on August 12, 2023, cruisers booking the packages received the free room service delivery and the OceanNow delivery service of food and drinks. Also, the express “Green Lane” boarding was added.
The OceanNow service normally has a fee of $14.99 per guest, per voyage, and the room service delivery fee is $5.
Princess Cruises operates a 16-ship fleet. The line’s newest ship, Sun Princess, entered service in February 2024. The 4,300-guest ship is the first in the line’s new Sphere class, and is the only one in the fleet to be powered by liquified natural gas (LNG).
The ship is operating 7 to 21-night Mediterranean cruises during summer 2024 and will reposition to Fort Lauderdale, Florida, in October 2024. She will sail Eastern and Western Caribbean cruises during winter 2024/25.
A group of Sitka, Alaska, residents is taking action against the increasing cruise ship tourism to their town by applying for a ballot initiative aiming to reduce the number of tourists arriving by the 2025 season.
The proposed ordinance, prepared by the nonprofit organization Small Town SOUL, seeks to introduce stricter visitation caps, as well as a shortened cruise season.
“We aim to have the measure on the October election ballet,” said Klaudia Leccese, president of Small Town SOUL. “The timing is tight, so any delays by the city could necessitate a later special election. Our attorney is ready to work with the city on any sticking points to ensure timely progress.”
If the initiative makes the ballet for the City & Borough elections in October, residents of the town of just over 8,300 people will vote on establishing a daily limit of 4,500 passengers on shore and an annual cap of 300,000.
Currently, Sitka’s cruise visitors have swelled to nearly 600,000 annually.
The initiative also proposes a mandatory no-ship day each week, exempting only smaller ships, to give residents a respite from the continuous flow of visitors. Additionally, the tourist season, which currently begins in April and runs through October, would be cut back and limited to May 1 to September 30.
“The cruise terminal’s location near one end of Sitka’s narrow 14-mile strip, with a main tourist attraction at the other, causes significant traffic and congestion issues on peak cruise days,” explained initiative sponsor Larry Edwards.“This overcrowding not only affects our small town’s quality of life but also strains local infrastructure, including cell phone and internet capacities, which become safety concerns.”
The initiative also proposes penalties for cruise lines that exceed their scheduled “persons ashore” limits and calls for accurate passenger and crew counts, demanding independent verification to improve data accuracy, a measure that has not been implemented in previous decades despite ongoing concerns.
A Lengthy Battle Ahead
This is not the first challenge from residents in an attempt to establish boundaries for the burgeoning cruise industry. Edwards had previously petitioned the city in 2023 to enact a 240,000-passenger cap, also requesting a weekly limit of no more than 13,350 guests. The initial proposal also requested placing hefty fines on cruise ships exceeding the limits.
The city denied the petition in September 2023, citing the plan was confusing, misleading, and incomplete. The setback did not deter Edwards, who has teamed up with Small Town SOUL to impose a clearer directive ahead of the elections.
Sitka, Alaska (Photo Credit: Jeff Whyte)
If the initiative makes it to the ballet in October, the speed of which the plan aims to limit passengers by 2025 is unlikely to be met. In Bar Harbor, Maine, for example, residents have been fighting a legal battle with the city and its business owners to instill a 1,000 daily cap on cruise passenger arrivals since 2021.
Although the Town Council approved the ban in November 2022, proposing to launch the cap by summer 2024, lengthy appeals have extended into the current season.
A District Court judge upheld the passenger cap in March 2024, the battle was taken to the Federal Court, which also rejected attempts to stop the ban. However, an appeal is now back at the District Court and the town has yet to impose limitations.
Every major cruise line currently operates in Alaska, with Sitka has a key port of call. Limiting the number of passengers allowed to visit by nearly half would be a significant blow to the cruise industry and would undoubtedly see pushback from the Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA), which already manages the logistical challenge of limited ports available in the state.
Still, hope is not lost on Sitka residents who recently learned Juneau, Alaska, and CLIA agreed to set a daily passenger limit to 16,000 per day. Announced earlier this month, the limitation further lowers the cap to 12,000 on Saturdays.
