CRUISE TO FALMOUTH, JAMAICA

Encounter Georgian architecture, reggae culture, cool waterfalls, and blissful beaches on cruises to Jamaica, an island forged by flames, rebellions, and pirates. Learn all about Bob Marley, the island’s most iconic and beloved musician. Climb up natural rock formations at Dunns River Falls, and take a dip in one of the natural pools you’ll encounter along the way. Savor jerk chicken and sip on some famous Blue Mountain coffee. Or simply lay back and relax at one of the beautiful beaches of Montego Bay, where turquoise waters and swaying palm trees await on your luxury Caribbean cruise. 

Jamaican cuisine ranges from mild to wild, a result of its British, Spanish, and African influences. One of the staples for breakfast or lunch is saltfish with ackee, a fruit with the taste and texture of scrambled eggs. During your cruise to Jamaica, you must try the legendary flavor of jerk, a signature seasoning invented by runaway slaves which adds a distinctly Jamaican kick to chicken, lamb, pork, fish, and even veggies.

The original name of the island was Xaymaca, which means “land of wood and water.” After Christopher Columbus discovered Jamaica in 1494, the native Arawak people were displaced and the island was colonized and used by the Spanish mainly as a supply base for food and weapons. In 1655, the British attacked Jamaica, and Spain eventually surrendered the island to England.

Under English settlement, pirating was rampant. Buccaneers eventually took control of Port Royal, a town that was known at the time as the “wealthiest and wickedest city in the world.” Sugar exports grew exponentially, and in order to keep up with the demand, enslaved Africans were taken to the island against their will to work in the plantations. There were many slave rebellions and confrontations until 1808, when the Abolition Bill was passed and slavery was finally outlawed.

On August 6, 1962, Jamaica gained independence from England. Even though it is a small island in the Caribbean, Jamaican culture has a strong global influence, specifically in music. Local genres such as reggae, ska, dub, and dancehall are famous around the world.

At the Falmouth cruise port, there are buses, minibuses, and route taxis ready to take visitors to the many natural attractions and beaches nearby. Keep an eye out for taxis with a JTB decal, which have been authorized by the Jamaica Tourist Board. When you book a shore excursion, transportation is included.

As soon as you disembark from a cruise to Jamaica, you’ll be able to shop at the Falmouth cruise port and its selection of duty-free shops. There’s also a craft market in the center of the port where you’ll find handmade souvenirs, artifacts, and jewelry.

The official currency in Jamaica is the Jamaican Dollar, but United States Dollars are accepted in many tourist destinations. Credit cards and debit cards are also accepted in most tourist areas, but it’s always a good idea to have some local currency on hand. As for tipping, consider tipping anywhere from 15% to 20% for good service. Some places accept tips in both Jamaican and US dollars.

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