Beach and Water Port Activities
From a quiet lounger to a reef full of fish: the warm-water port day, done well.
Plan My Port DaysSnorkelling and Diving
Snorkelling is one of the most popular port activities in the Caribbean, Mexico, Hawaii and the South Pacific. Boat trips take you to reefs or wrecks that you cannot reach from the beach, with masks, fins and a guide. Certified divers can book dives in many ports; non-divers sometimes have try-dive options. Plan diving early in the cruise and not on the day before a flight home, and follow the operator’s guidance on flying after diving.
Kayaks, Paddleboards and Sails
Clear-water kayak and paddleboard tours suit calm bays and mangroves. Catamaran sails often combine a snorkel stop with time on deck, a good pick for mixed groups where some want to swim and others want to sit in the sun. Choose shaded options if anyone burns easily.
Beach Days and Beach Clubs
A beach day can be as simple as a taxi to a public beach. A beach club adds loungers, umbrellas, changing rooms, food and often a pool, which makes it easy for families and for anyone who wants the day organised. Check whether transport, food and drinks are included, and when the last return transfer leaves for the ship.
Water Safety in Port
- Swim where lifeguards or guides are present, and respect flags.
- Use reef-safe sunscreen where it is required, and cover up between swims.
- Never touch or stand on coral.
- Drink water and keep alcohol light before getting in the sea.
- Keep the ship card and phone in a dry bag, not on the sand.
More on staying well on a cruise is at Cruising Is Safe. Book beach and water tours port by port on Caribbean Cruise Ports or Shore Activities.
Fitting a Beach Day Around the Ship
Beaches near the pier fill quickly on busy ship days, so go early or choose one a short drive away. Bring a towel if the ship provides beach towels (many do) and check the rules for taking them ashore. Leave time to rinse off and change before heading back, and keep an eye on the last shuttle or taxi time. A water day is the easiest kind to overrun because time passes so pleasantly; set an alarm.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to be a strong swimmer to snorkel on a shore excursion?
You should be comfortable in deep water. Many operators provide flotation vests; tell the guide honestly about your swimming so they can help.
What is a beach club?
A private or semi-private beach with facilities such as loungers, umbrellas, changing rooms, food and drinks. Some include transport from the pier.
What to Bring for a Water Day
- Swimwear worn under clothes to save time changing.
- A dry bag for the ship card, ID and phone.
- Water shoes for rocky entries.
- A cover-up and hat for the boat ride back.
Above all, go at your own pace: a water day is meant to be restful.
Plan a Beach or Water Day
Ask a Mister Cruise advisor which ports on your cruise suit snorkelling, sailing or a beach club.
Get Water Day Ideas