TS8213

We just got back from cruising and went on this excursion. We brought our own water and many people bought the $1 bottles from the vendors we passed on the way to the catamaran (which took you to the island). I'm sure you could've packed some snacks and no one would've said anything. There were maybe 40 people when we were there, though another Carnival boat came about an hour before our boat left. There were plenty of chairs and umbrellas (all free) to go around. The water was beautiful and the beach was clean. The bathrooms were really clean, too. No one even used the pool when we were there. The music wasn't too loud, but we sat closer to the dock so we were near any speakers. There was a Starbucks (around the corner from the restrooms) but we didn't go in. We didn't buy any food while we were there. We ate a late breakfast (excursion time was 10-2:30) and then a late lunch back onboard the ship. We'd definitely do this excursion again, just for the beach and catamaran ride alone.

We just got back and loved this excursion. The beach is small but very nice and clean. The water is beautiful, clear and very calm. Was perfect for our young kids. There also weren't a ton of people (maybe 40?) So the beach was definitely not crowded. Plenty of chairs and umbrellas. I also have no idea about the drinks, but the sail & sign cards are used on island since it's partial owned by Carnival. I would imagine the rules would be the same as the ship rules. Don't quote me on that though. Snorkeling gear is $11 to rent.

We also did the stingray encounter. Very nice. You spend your first 45 mins (or so) with the guides doing the feeding, holding, etc, but you're allowed to go in/out of the stingray pen all day long whenever you'd like.

No idea on the hotel amenities, but the hotel is 20 mins from the port via taxi. Taxis are easy to catch. We paid $10/pp roundtrip.

I'm not sure if you're able to upgrade to the stingrays while on the island. I know you can upgrade to the dolphins, but they never advertised for the stingrays. We bought the stingray excursion ahead of time and loved it. You spend the first 45 mins on the island doing your guide led experience (feeding, holding, etc) but you can go in/out of the pen all day long as much as you'd like for petting them. Definitely worth the money and the beach is so beautiful!

Balmoral Island! So beautiful! We did the stingrays but the guests who did the dolphins said they loved it! Just by watching, they had a lot of interaction one on one with the dolphins. Plus, there were very few people because the excursion is so new still. I think the price was $104? and it would definitely be worth it. The only reason we didn't do it is because we had 3 children with us and it still would've been pricey for all 5 of us.

Also wanted to add that our children are 15, 9, 6 and 9 months and the beach was perfect for them. The water was crystal blue and so calm. They loved every minute of it. The catamaran ride to/from to the island was a fun one, too. Also, I'm not sure about the dolphins, but with the stingrays we were able to go in/out of the pen with them for the entire length of our time on the beach. Huge bonus.

If you're cruising with Carnival, I highly recommend checking out the Balmoral Beach excursion. We just got back from the Bahamas cruise today and this was by far our favorite excursion. Beautiful, clear water on a semi private island (shared with Sandals). They have stingray or dolphin encounters there as well and the prices are very reasonable for what you get. Would definitely do again!

We're booking this for our November cruise with the kids. I'm glad to hear that it's getting good reviews!