Excursions in Antigua, Barbados, St. Lucia, St. Martin, & St. Thomas

[tapia]

Hey! I'm cruising in Feb on the Golden to the islands above from San Juan.

I'm a animal lover and I'd LOVE to see the islands..........I'm traveling with a group of 7 people. 1 is elderly and might be coming on some of the tours, but not all. Does anyone have suggestions or comments about any of these? Are they air conditioned? Is there one I shouldn't miss?

(We're not interested in scuba diving/snorkeling on this trip.)

I'm also thinking of doing the dolphin encounter in Anguilla when I'm in St. Martin. Any comments on that?

ANYTHING would be helpful!

THANK YOU!

Antigua

 

Island Safari By Land Rover appx 3 hours; $69

 

Get off the beaten track and explore Antigua’s countryside on an off-road expedition.

Meet your driver/guide, board your customized, 4WD Land Rover, and set off in a caravan for the island’s remote southwest interior. Drive through quaint Buckley’s Village and follow narrow dirt tracks to Body Pond, where your guide points out the many interesting tropical plants. Travel toward Fig Tree Drive, a part of the island featuring lush tropical forest, mango groves and pineapple fields. Skirt the shore and pass mangrove thickets as your guide explains the ecological role played by this ever-present Caribbean tree that’s adapted to brackish and saltwater environments. Stop at one of Antigua’s beautiful beaches for a swim and a refreshing beverage before returning to the ship.

 

SPECIAL NOTES

This active excursion is suitable only for passengers in good physical condition. Roads and tracks traveled may be bumpy and dusty. Not recommended for pregnant women. Wear a swimsuit and bring a towel and adequate sun protection if you plan to swim.

 

 

Tropical Trails 4wd Safari appx 3.25 hours; $79

 

Travel back roads and sugarcane trails on a guided 4WD safari that includes stops at Monk’s Hill and a beautiful beach.

Meet your driver/guide and board your assigned 4WD vehicle. Take in the tropical scenery while heading out of St. John’s as your guide points out sights of interest and identifies the island’s trees and plants, many still used for medicinal purposes. Stop at Monk’s Hill, where you have some time to explore the ruins of Fort St. George and enjoy the panoramic views of Falmouth and English Harbour. Drive through the tropical forest and take a break for a taste of luscious, seasonal fruit. Continue to one of Antigua’s beautiful white-sand beaches for a short swim. See more of Antigua’s natural beauty on the return drive to the ship.

 

SPECIAL NOTES

This active excursion is suitable only for passengers in good physical condition. The roads and trails traveled are bumpy and may be dusty. Wear comfortable shoes and a hat. Bring a swimsuit, towel and adequate sun protection. Tour sequence may vary.

 

 

Barbados:

 

 

4wd Safari & Monkey Encounter appx 3.5 hours; $69

 

Travel by 4WD vehicle to Barbados’ northern parish and visit a wildlife reserve where the animals roam free.

Board your assigned, open-top 4WD vehicle and drive through undulating hills, passing fields of sugar cane and small villages en route to the Scotland District on the east coast. Drive north to the Wildlife Reserve, founded as a sanctuary for African green monkeys. The reserve is now home to other animals, including deer, tortoises, and hares. The animals roam free inside the reserve. Enjoy ample time to walk the paths and observe the animals in their natural habitat before the scenic drive back to the ship.

 

SPECIAL NOTES

Your arrival is timed to maximize your chance of seeing the various animals. Wildlife sightings are not guaranteed. Some of the reserve’s paths have a slight incline and may be uneven in places. The minimum age required to participate is 5 years old.

 

 

 

Tropical Forest Hike & Cave Exploration appx 4 hours; $79

 

Hike through Barbados’ tropical forest and then descend into a natural cave on a spelunking expedition.

Board your transportation for the approximately 30-minute drive to your starting point, where you meet your experienced local guide and receive an orientation and safety briefing. Your hike travels through a lush tropical gully filled with towering trees, hanging vines, rare palms and unusual rock formations. After about 45 minutes, make the steep descent into the “funnel,” the well concealed entrance to an underground cave. Hold on to a rope as you slowly descend to the cave’s floor. Pause at the entrance to examine the interesting geological formations before proceeding into the depths, where you view natural rock sculptures and underground pools of crystal-clear water. Be advised that you are required at times to walk through water that may be waist deep. You also encounter typical cave dwellers including bats and insects. After your cavern exploration, return to the surface for the short hike back to the transportation. Enjoy some well-deserved refreshments before returning to the ship.

 

SPECIAL NOTES

This most active excursion is suitable only for passengers in very good physical condition. Hard hats with headlamps and water are provided, as well as refreshments after the tour. Wear light, practical clothing; and sturdy walking shoes or hiking boots with good traction are required - you will get wet and muddy.

 

 

St. Lucia:

 

 

8x8 Off Road Adventure appx 3.5 hours; $89

 

Take in the scenery of the picturesque northeast Atlantic Coast as your driver maneuvers an exciting amphibious 8x8 wheel drive vehicle through the scenic off road terrain.

 

Board your non-air-conditioned transportation for the short drive to Cap Estate. After a safety briefing, grab your seat for a wild and fun off road ride in these unique vehicles. Drive first through a dry tropical forest which emerges on the top of a mountain which overlooks Cactus Valley with its vast grasslands and the rough surf of the Atlantic Ocean as a backdrop. Continue on to the cliffs overlooking Donkey Beach and walk down the gentle slopes to get a closer look at the effects of the rough waves and its eroding effects on the coastline. The adventure continues along bushy tracks down to another beautiful beach and then back along the trail to the starting point. Board the bus and drive to Pigeon Island National Park which is a 44 acre plot of sloping grassland, dry tropical forest, and small beaches. Enjoy a complimentary drink and time on one of the two beaches. You may also choose to visit the Interpretation Center, the ruins of Fort Rodney or just simply relax prior to your transfer back to the ship.

 

SPECIAL NOTES

The trails can be bumpy, dusty and possibly muddy if there have been heavy rains. Those with back, neck or respiratory concerns should not book this tour. Wear a bating suit and bring a towel and adequate sun protection if you plan on swimming. A bottle of water is also recommended

 

 

Views Of St. Lucia appx 3 hours; $49

 

Enjoy the best views of the northern part of St. Lucia on this scenic island drive.

 

Board your air-conditioned transportation and drive through Castries passing many points of interest that your guide will identify. Stop at the overlook at Morne Fortune and take in the panoramic view of the entire city of Castries and the harbor. From there, drive to the Iniskilling monument, erected in 1932 in honor of the gallant 27th-Iniskilling Regiment who captured the Morne for the British in 1796. Original cannons used in the war can still be seen at the site. The monument sits on the edge of a hilltop and also commands spectacular views of Castries. Your drive continues along scenic back roads running along the ridge of a mountain top with fantastic views of both the Caribbean Sea and the Atlantic Ocean. The third photo stop overlooks the Marquis Estate which was once one of the largest banana plantations in St Lucia. Finally visit Stony Hill, a beautiful private home with a well manicured lawn edged by a tropical garden and fronted with a breathtaking view of the Rodney Bay Marina. Prior to your return to the ship, relax under the large mango tree shading the pool deck while sipping your complimentary beverage or stroll through the gardens at your own pace.

 

SPECIAL NOTES

This tour is ideal for passengers who do not wish to walk a lot, but would like to see a beautiful part of the island.

 

 

Trail & Beach Horseback Riding appx 3 hours; $82

 

Enjoy a guided trail ride to a secluded beach where you can swim your mount into the sea.

 

Board your transportation for the drive to Castries on the north shore of St. Lucia. At Belle Cheval Stables, you meet your guide, are assigned a horse based on your riding experience, and receive a safety helmet and concise lesson if needed. Then set off with your guide on a half-hour trail ride through the dry forest to spectacular Anse la Voutte Beach. Ride along the beach, enjoying dramatic views of the island’s Atlantic coast. Then set off on another portion of the trail, arriving at a secluded beach where you can enjoy a bareback swim with your horse or just relax on the sand. Complimentary beverages and snacks are served before it’s time to saddle up and ride back to the stables.

 

SPECIAL NOTES

The minimum age required to participate is 12 years old. The maximum weight limit per rider is 200 pounds. Long pants and closed-toe shoes are required. Wear a swimsuit under your clothes and bring a towel and adequate sun protection. Participants must wear a helmet.

 

 

Caribbean Pirates Extravaganza appx 4 hours; $84

 

Sail aboard the Brig Unicorn and experience the ultimate Caribbean adventure on the tall ship used in Disney’s Pirates of the Caribbean.

 

Board the 140 foot, 19th-century tall ship Brig Unicorn at the dock, hoist sails, and cruise out of the harbor and along St. Lucia’s leeward coast. The ships cannon will be fired during a mock pirate attack. Then drop anchor at historic Pigeon Island where you can explore the ruins of 18th–century Fort Rodney, the scene of fierce naval battles between the British and French. The small museum depicts the island’s colorful history. Swim at the small beach, explore the island on a hike, or hunt for pirate treasure. Back onboard the Brig Unicorn, enjoy a sumptuous array of snacks along with rum punch and soft drinks.

 

SPECIAL NOTES

Some departures may utilize the Brig Unicorn’s sister-ship, The Lion. Wear a swimsuit and bring a towel and adequate sun protection if you plan to swim. At Pigeon Island, the transfer from ship to shore is in small tenders.

 

 

St. Martaan

 

Butterfly Farm & Marigot appx 3.5 hours; $39

 

Visit La Ferme aux Papillons, a farm that’s home to hundreds of the world’s most exotic butterflies, before enjoying free time to shop in the French capital of Marigot.

Board your air-conditioned transportation for the short drive to La Ferme aux Papillons on the French side of the island. At the Butterfly Farm, you enter enmeshed tropical gardens where hundreds of the world’s most rare and exotic butterflies float freely by. During your tour, see every phase of the life cycle of these exquisite insects and learn about the magic of metamorphosis. Then head to Marigot, where you enjoy approximately one hour of free time to explore the city’s charming sidewalk cafes, open-air market and duty-free shops before returning to the ship.

 

St. Thomas

 

St. Thomas In-Focus Photography Tour appx 4 hours; $69Don’t just take back memories of St. Thomas, capture the island’s magnificent views with your digital camera or on film under the guidance of a local professional photographer.

Board your open-air safari bus for a brief drive up to Paradise Point for your orientation. Paradise Point provides an excellent opportunity to photograph the picturesque St. Thomas harbor and the ship. Next, head off to several other St. Thomas "photo hot spots" including a white sand beach, world famous Mountain Top (St. Thomas’ highest point) with its panoramic of Magens Bay and down island views of St. John and the British Virgin Islands, and Drake’s Seat, the best location for shooting pictures of Magens Bay. Your final stop is Bluebeard’s Castle, a historic spot where you can photograph some of the pirate history of the islands, before your return to the ship.

 

SPECIAL NOTES

Please bring your own camera and film or memory. The photographer will provide shooting tips and offer any assistance you may require with your camera. Itinerary subject to change.

 

 

Accessible Scenic Island Drive & Shopping appx 2-2.5; $49

 

Take a splendid tour of St. Thomas in a custom vehicle that’s fully equipped for limited mobility and wheelchair access as well as anyone who wishes to enjoy the leisurely pace of this excursion.

Board your custom vehicle and travel to St. Thomas’ historic sites as your guide shares their local knowledge of the island’s history, landmarks and legends. Stop along the way at points of interest and enjoy ample time for photo opportunities. Travel Skyline Drive to the overlook, which has views of Charlotte Amalie, St. John and possibly the British Virgin Islands. Drive along Drakes Seat, where legend has it that Sir Francis Drake once spied on vessels entering the channel. Visit Mountain Top for views of Magens Bay, rated one of the Top 10 beaches in the world by the National Geographic Society. Here you have time to shop, purchase a beverage and snack, or just relax. Journey back through historical downtown, with the option of being dropped off at the main shopping district in Charlotte Amalie. You are then responsible for your return to the ship.

 

SPECIAL NOTES

If a passenger is confined to a scooter the maximum weight limit is 600 pounds. This tour is fully accessible. If you book this tour once you are onboard you need to let the Shore Excursion Manager know if you are a able bodied passenger, if you have a collapsible wheelchair or a scooter so we can prepare for your needs.

[cherylandtk]

We took this cruise in summer of 2004, one of our suprisingly enjoyable excursions was in St. Lucia, where we did the 4x4 trip into the banana plantation and then stopped at the swimming hole (don't see that particular description in your choices). Loved seeing all the different types of fruit and spice trees and getting samples from them all. (Mangoes, banana, pineapple, cinnamon, cashews) I would NOT recommend any of the 4x4 trips for anyone elderly, with back problems or pregant. They are roller-coaster jarring, to say the least.

 

Did water type excursion in all the other ports, sorry.

 

If you need air-conditioning and a smooth ride, be sure the excursion is listed that way on the Princess site.

[tapia]

We took this cruise in summer of 2004, one of our suprisingly enjoyable excursions was in St. Lucia, where we did the 4x4 trip into the banana plantation and then stopped at the swimming hole (don't see that particular description in your choices). Loved seeing all the different types of fruit and spice trees and getting samples from them all. (Mangoes, banana, pineapple, cinnamon, cashews) I would NOT recommend any of the 4x4 trips for anyone elderly, with back problems or pregant. They are roller-coaster jarring, to say the least.

 

Did water type excursion in all the other ports, sorry.

 

If you need air-conditioning and a smooth ride, be sure the excursion is listed that way on the Princess site.

 

Thanks for the info. Would you think that's the best thing to do in St. Lucia??

[mr green]

With older folks in Barbados, go on a bus tour that includes the Harrison Caves. There is no walking, you go on an electric 'train'. Lots of stops for photos, and while I have been in better caves, it would be a pity to miss these. Have fun john

[cherylandtk]

Tapia,

There were so many choices, it is hard to say what is "best". Everyone we talked to on the ship really enjoyed what they did there, whether water, land or bus-based. I would suggest you sort first by level of physical activity as appropriate, and then choose what appeals most to YOU. All I can say for certain is we really enjoyed seeing the countryside, having the different trees pointed out, getting samples, and the rocky, bumpy, wind in your face, hang-on-tight-so-you-don't-fall-out ride.

[tapia]

There are just so many choices in St. Lucia & Barbados--I'm overwhelmed!

 

 

In barbados--most likely my husband and I will be the only ones doing the cave excursion. So, we're fine with any kind of physical activity. Is the one the princess offerst he best?

 

In St. Lucia more people will probably be with us, so I'm kind of stumped on what to do.....

[vmom]

Have you checked out the boards for the ports? There are usually alot of suggestions for what to do at each port and what independant excursions may be available.

 

 

When we were in St. Lucia several years ago, we and another couple rented a taxi and had him give us a brief tour of the island and then drive us to the

"drive through" vocano.

We enjoyed driving around with the taxi driver, who was as good or better than any tour guide we've encountered and a fraction of the cost when divided by 2 couples, however driving to the vocano was a mistake. It was a long drive around mountainous areas. The key words here are up and down and around. I got very motion sick. There were no or few guard rails in places with long drops. Would not recommend a long drive to the vocano.

[OCruisers]

Have you checked out the boards for the ports? There are usually alot of suggestions for what to do at each port and what independant excursions may be available. ~~~~ Would not recommend a long drive to the vocano.

 

Agree with vmon ....If you haven't already, do check the Ports of Call Board under each of your port stops. It's fun to read what other cruisers have done and recommend.

 

In St.Lucia you might consider taking a taxi DIRECTLY (no additional siteseeing) to REDUIT BEACH

 

Have FUN planning! Happy Sailing! OCruisers

[tapia]

I checked the ports of call pages--I was just hoping someone has done these princess sponsored excursions.......

 

I would do the volcano tour--but, that's just too much time. I don't want to commit to an all day trip.....

 

Thanks though

[cubsr#1]

sailing on the 18th. When are you sailing?

[tapia]

sailing on the 18th. When are you sailing?

 

same