17 Dec 2025 | By Roman Bode-Asa In Excursions

What Are Shore Excursions? A First Time Cruiser’s Guide

If you are planning a cruise holiday, you have probably come across the term shore excursions while browsing itineraries or booking your cruise. Shore excursions are an important part of the cruise experience that allows you to step off the ship and explore each destination in a safe, organised and immersive way. However, for new cruisers, understanding what they are and whether they are worth booking can feel overwhelming This guide explains exactly everything you need to know about shore excursions, from what they include to how to choose the right options for your travel

What are shore excursions?

Shore excursions are organised tours, activities or experiences that take place when your cruise ship docks at a port of call. They can range from guided city tours and cultural visits to adventure activities such as snorkeling, hiking or wildlife sightings as passengers get to leave the ship to explore the destination. Most shore excursions are guided and include transport, a local expert and a fixed schedule that aligns with the ship’s arrival and departure times. Shore excursions can last anything from a couple of hours to a full day, depending on the port schedule and can be booked directly through the cruise line or arranged independently with local operators. For first time cruisers, shore excursions provide a stress free way to explore new destinations as transport is arranged and tailored to your cruise itinerary.

Type of cruise shore excursions you can expect

There are different types of shore excursions with each catering to fitness levels, interests and budgets. Understanding what each entails can help you choose the experiences that tick all your boxes.
Sightseeing and cultural tours are the popular options for cruisers as they are ideal for travellers who want to learn about the destination in a short time. These often include guided tours to historical landmarks, temples, museums and UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
Adventure and active excursions are perfect for those who enjoy the outdoors and maintain a moderate to high level of fitness. These may include zip-lining, kayaking, scuba diving, cycling or hiking. 
Nature and wildlife excursions focus on local ecosystems and natural landscapes. Expect whale watching, rainforest walks, safaris, bird watching, visits to national parks and more 

Relaxation based excursions are designed for people who prefer a laid back approach. Beach days, spa visits and boat cruises are perfect for cruisers looking to experience more at a slower pace.

Food and drink excursions allow you to experience the local cuisine through tastings, cooking classes or vineyard visits for a more immersive culinary and cultural experience.

Booking through the cruise lines vs independently

Deciding how to book your shore excursions can be an important consideration if you are deciding between the cruise lines and independent operators. Cruise line shore excursions are organised based on the ship’s schedule. This makes them more suitable for destinations with long travel times or unpredictable traffic as the cruise line takes responsibility if there are any delays. Independent shore excursions involve small groups which makes for a more authentic local experience. They are often less expensive and more flexible but they require careful time management as the ship will not wait if you are late. First time cruisers may feel more comfortable using cruise line excursions initially, exploring independent options as they gain more cruising experience.

How to select the best cruise shore excursions

Choosing the right shore excursions depends on your budget, interests and comfort level. Think about what you want to gain from each destination, whether that is cultural insight, adventure or relaxation. Start by researching each destination to understand what is unique about each port city as that can help you decide which experiences are worth prioritising. Consider how long you have ashore and how physically demanding the excursion might be. It is also important to pace yourself and avoid overbooking. Scheduling too many excursions can be tiring, especially on longer cruises. Balancing active days with quieter port visits can enhance your overall experience.

Tips for first time cruisers

• Book early to avoid disappointment, especially for popular destinations or areas with limited capacity.
• Preparation is an important factor to making the most of your shore excursions. Check the local weather conditions to know what is suitable to pack and wear.
• Dress appropriately for the activity and climate. Comfortable footwear is essential for most excursions, and sun protection is often necessary
• Keep track of the ship’s all aboard time and aim to return to port well in advance. Even when booking through the cruise line, punctuality is important.
• Finally, not every port requires planned excursions. Sometimes, exploring the port city independently or enjoying a quieter ship on board can be just as rewarding

Are shore excursions worth it?

For many cruisers, shore excursions are the highlight of any cruise holiday. They allow passengers to connect with each destination in a meaningful way with access to local culture, history and natural beauty that cannot be experienced on board. For first time cruisers, shore excursions offer convenience, confidence and the opportunity to explore the world one port at a time. While they are an additional value, shore excursions are a highlight of the cruise and a reason many travellers return to cruising again. By choosing excursions that match your interests and comfort level, you can create meaningful memories at every port of call and return home with a deeper appreciation and knowledge of the destinations you visit.

Published 17th December 2025, Last updated 7th February 2026
By Roman Bode-Asa In Excursions

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