The Caribbean waters are home to some of the most spectacular coral and marine life.
Many tourists enjoy exploring the water world when visiting the island, and there are many options available. Apart from exploring beaches like Mahogany Beach in Ocho Rios, many tourists opt to go offshore and snorkel.
Most resorts offer snorkeling tours and activities, and if you are visiting on a cruise ship, or you aren’t staying at a resort, there are numerous options available to see the beautiful ocean life below. The most popular areas for snorkeling are in Montego Bay and Ocho Rios, both of whom have a variety of options for tours.
The following are just two of the best options available.
Reggae Catamaran Cruise Montego Bay
As you sail across the crystal clear turquoise waters of the Caribbean on this 3-hour tour, you will get a taste of what is to come. Listen to the relaxed vibes of the music and soak in the sun and the coastal views while relaxing on the deck of the beautiful luxury catamaran.
When you arrive at Montego Bay Marine Park, you will receive a snorkeling introduction from the onboard crew. After you put on your snorkel and life vest, you can jump into the tropical waters, where you can spend about an hour floating and swimming among the sea urchins, living coral, and schools of colorful tropical fish.
The Montego Bay Marine Park features two hectares of protected waters that you can explore, and the crew will attract different types of fish by throwing food in the water so you can get an up-close look at these beautiful marine creatures.
If you are a non-swimmer or have never snorkeled before, the snorkel crew will give you a one-on-one session after the rest of your group have entered the water. While you are enjoying the underwater wonderland, the crew members will take photos, which you can purchase after your tour.
After the snorkeling part of the tour is complete, you can enjoy a Red Stripe beer, rum punch or a refreshing soda as the catamaran takes you to Margaritaville. It’s a restaurant and bar where you can enjoy both local and international food and drinks while relaxing to the vibes of the live entertainment or explore the two water trampolines, a 36-meter tall water slide, and water volleyball.
You will then head back to Montego Bay while savoring remarkable views and taking a dance lesson from the crew.
Cool Runnings Catamarans in Ocho Rios
The party scene starts as soon as you step onboard. The hosts serve up a variety of drinks including fruit punch and rum punch. Grab one then find a neat little area on deck to enjoy the panoramic views of the turquoise blue Caribbean Sea. While relaxing, you can expect to rock to some reggae and soca music thanks to the DJ.
The captain will select the perfect spot for snorkeling in the warm Caribbean waters, and the crew will show you a few tips and guidelines for snorkeling, and you can then grab your masks, snorkel, and fins, and dive into the crystal clear water. You can swim among the coral reefs teeming with marine life and intriguing tropical fish.
Once you are back on the boat, you will pass emerald hills, waterfalls, and historical sites as you sail to Dunn’s River Falls, one of Jamaica’s most iconic landmarks. You will then dock on the beach at the foot of the falls where the water flows into the ocean, and follow the guide on a hike up the surging 600-foot falls. As you make your way through the picturesque tropical rainforest, you can stop for refreshing swims in one of the many lagoons created by the cascading water. At the top of the falls, you can savor the unbelievable views of the surrounding areas.
When you return to the catamaran from the amazing adventure to Dunn’s River Falls, you can enjoy some refreshing rum punch or a cold beverage, and enjoy some traditional Caribbean music. The return cruise often turns into a lively dance party, which is often considered the best part of the trip.
Some Resorts that offer Snorkeling Tours:
- Breezes Grand Resort Negril
- Jewel Runaway Bay Beach & Golf Resort
- Sandals Montego Bay
- Iberostar Rose Hall
- Moon Palace Jamaica Ocho Rios
- ClubHotel Riu Ocho Rios
Best Beaches to Snorkel
Of course with tons of beaches in Jamaica you won’t run out of potential places to explore the water world. At the Seven Mile Beach in Negril for example you can enjoy shallow and clear waters. This makes it perfect for beginners. If you’re in Montego Bay, you’ll want to check out the Doctor’s Cave Beach (the #1 Beach on that side of the island). You’ll find yourself leaving the beautiful white sandy beach for a snorkel trip with fishes that enjoy having tourists around.
There’s so much other places out there. If you need more suggestions please don’t hesitate to reach out.
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