Where to find port guides?

[pattycake66]

We are leaving for our 1st cruise August 29th on the Conquest going to Montego Bay, Grand Caymans and Cozumel and I have read several times on these threads to use a port guide to get familiar with the port and plan for excursions-where do I find these guides? :confused:

[fann1sh]

Congratulations on finding CruiseCritic, and making your first post! Try these pages:

 

Grand Cayman port of call guide:

 

http://www.cruisecritic.com/ports/newport.cfm?ID=1

 

Cayman Islands forum:

 

http://boards.cruisecritic.com/forumdisplay.php?s=&daysprune=100&f=147

 

Montego Bay port of call guide:

 

http://www.cruisecritic.com/ports/newport.cfm?ID=20

 

Jamaica forum:

 

http://boards.cruisecritic.com/forumdisplay.php?s=&daysprune=100&f=111

 

Cozumel port of call guide:

 

http://www.cruisecritic.com/ports/newport.cfm?ID=6

 

Cozumel forum:

 

http://boards.cruisecritic.com/forumdisplay.php?s=&daysprune=100&f=210

 

It takes a while to get to know this site. But, you can find the other forums by going to the bottom of the page where the box says "Forum Jump". If you go to the home page of CruiseCritic , in the banner across the top, you can click on "Ports", and that will take you to the ports guides.

 

Now - have fun reading, and making plans!

[Essiesmom]

This website will give you info and maps for two of your ports:

http://www.cruiseportinsider.com/

[Sekhmet]

Here in the UK, I would first visit my local public library and borrow a few guidebooks - is this a possibility where you are?

[michmike]

You will have a much better experience (imho) by using a local tour guide rather than going on the cruise line excursions. As another poster indicated, there is a ton of information on the port of call boards for the various islands.

 

Another option is that you'll find many taxi drivers at the dock area (or just outside of it) that will be glad to take you on an island sightgseeing tour. Just be sure to agree on a price upfront and take the tour first thing, planning to get back to the port area at least a couple hours before departure, which will allow for some shopping time or a late lunch.

 

In particular, the folks who you will find recommended on the port of call boards specialize in accommodating cruise guests and will make sure you are back to port in plenty of time, as their future referrals depend on it.

 

Doing an independent tour, you can stop where you want, aren't herded around like cattle and are not subjected to other's whiny kids (or spouses *L*)

[paul929207]

You can also find out about the ports an dmeet your fellow passengers by joining the Roll Call for your cruise.

 

To join, go to the boards menu and scroll down to Roll Calls. Click on your cruise line. Then click on your ship. Finally, click on the thread for your sailing.

[cb at sea]

Get a guidebook! It's the best investment you'll make. You can find them that cover many Caribbean ports....all the info you need will be there....libraries have them at no cost, or just buy one at a bookstore!