Eastern Caribbean Shore Excursions
Ports of Call – Puerto Rico, St. Thomas and St. Maarten
Apr 21, 2009
Royal Caribbean, like all other cruises, features stops at tropical islands. Freedom of the Seas' 7-night eastern Caribbean cruise samples island life in Puerto Rico, St. Thomas and St. Maarten. It is very difficult to choose among the many shore excursion offerings, but here are a few options.
Castillo San Felipe del Morro
This fortress is part of a massive defense system built by the Spaniards in Old San Juan, Puerto Rico. What began in 1539 as a simple tower, the Spanish Empire spent over 250 years fortifying since through this location Spain could control access and commerce in and out of the New World.
The castillo, now a San Juan National Historic Site, invites tourists on a self-guided tour that begins by entering the main plaza and leads to different levels that where visitors view a chapel, kitchen, library, sentry boxes (sheltered lookout posts to keep watch along the fortress walls), living quarters, and several cannons.
The tower, the oldest structure, was large enough to house four small cannons. The lighthouse was rebuilt by the US Navy after shellfire from one of their war ships damaged it during the Spanish-American war. Three flags fly over El Morro: the US flag, the Puerto Rican flag and the old Spanish military flag.
Ultimate Island Experience
Boarding an open air safari bus at the port of Havensight, a driver/tour guide takes visitors up the mountainous terrain of St. Thomas. The scenic ride along Skyline Drive stops at several locations, including Drake's Seat, to allow for breathtaking views and photographs of Charlotte Amalie Harbour, the Caribbean Sea, the British Virgin Islands and Magens Bay.
A two hour stop at Magens Bay, rated one of the top ten most beautiful beaches in the world by National Geographic Magazine, is included in the tour. Located on the north side of the island, Magens Bay is St. Thomas' most popular beach. The waters are very calm, perfect for floating, swimming or snorkeling. The sea deepens gradually making it ideal for family outings. Lifeguards are on duty daily. Fresh water showers and changing rooms are also available. For an extra fee, chairs and floats can be rented, and snacks and beverages can be purchased.
The final stop of the excursion is at Blackbeard's Castle, located on 5 acres of lush, tropical grounds in the historic district. Here visitors can climb a tower, once used as a watchtower to aid the defenses and walk through several restored colonial homes and see the ruins of the old Pederson Estate. Patrons can also enjoy any of three swimming pools amid the gardens (changing rooms are available). Around the pool and garden area are statues with explanations of the many pirates said to have sailed through the Caribbean. Past this section are the famous 99 Steps, which are actually 103 steps, built by the Danish as an easier way to climb the hills of St. Thomas. The tour continues into the Rum Museum where rum is aged and flavored with banana, coconut and pineapple. Finally, visitors are directed into the Amber Museum, where gorgeous stones and jewelry are on display. Over 12,000 amber stones comprise the wall underneath a waterfall marking a perfect picture location along the pathway to Main Street, where shopping awaits. Cruise passengers are responsible for their own transportation back to the ship.
St. Maarten Sensation & Beach Break with Lunch
Departing from the pier in Phillipsburg on an air-conditioned coach bus, a tour guide/driver details the history of the tiny island split between the French and the Dutch. Imparting interesting information, such as the fact that many residents carry two cell phones so as not to be charged outrageous long distance fees to call the other side of the island, the driver winds through the hills and into the countryside and through typical Caribbean villages. Stops are made at several locations, including Cole Bay Hill, for picturesque views and plenty of photos.
The tour continues with a stop at Orient Beach. This time chairs, a buffet-style barbeque lunch and a drink are included at Boo Boo Jam, located right on the beach. After lunch, passengers travel through the French Quarter and into Marigot, the French capital. Time is allotted for shopping in the quaint shops downtown, at the outdoor flea marker or inside an upscale mall.
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