Are Excursions Worth It? Why Some Passengers Skip Them Entirely

As cruise ships continue to sail to some of the world’s most popular destinations, one question remains: are shore excursions really worth the extra cost?

While some passengers swear by the guided tours offered by the cruise line, others prefer to skip them altogether, opting for independent exploration or relaxation aboard the ship.

According to feedback from seasoned cruisers and Reddit threads, the answer isn’t straightforward.

Mixed Opinions on Booking Excursions

In a recent Reddit post, a soon-to-be first-time cruiser reached out for advice on whether excursions were necessary for an upcoming MSC cruise to the Caribbean.

While many first-time cruisers might assume they need to book excursions to get the most out of their trip, the responses were a mixed bag.

One Redditor shared, “I cruise for the ship, not the ports,” noting that the best time to enjoy the ship is when it’s in port—fewer crowds, shorter lines, and a chance to take advantage of the ship’s amenities.

Many cruisers in the thread echoed this sentiment, adding that in certain ports like Nassau and Cozumel, independent exploration could be just as enjoyable. “You can find unique adventures and local flavors without booking an excursion,” one commenter explained.

While it’s true that some ports can feel more touristy, filled with shops, restaurants, and bars, others, like Roatan and Ocean Cay, offer more to see for those willing to step off the ship.

Despite this, the theme of staying aboard was popular among cruisers looking to avoid extra expenses and long, often crowded excursions.

Risks of Self-Planned Excursions

For those who do decide to venture beyond the ship, booking excursions independently can offer a more affordable alternative to the expensive tours offered by cruise lines.

However, several cruisers warned about the risks involved in planning your own excursions. The biggest concern? Timing.

A viral TikTok video from cruiser Ali Smith shared her close call with missing the Anthem of the Seas after a self-planned excursion in Ho Chi Minh City.

Ali’s experience serves as a reminder of the importance of time management when exploring a port independently. “I was rushing to get back, and it was a stressful situation,” Ali recalled.

This isn’t a rare occurrence. In 2024, a family aboard the Norwegian Encore was left stranded in Ketchikan, Alaska, after their local tour operator caused them to miss the ship.

The family faced a $9,000 bill while they worked to rectify the situation with the cruise line. While not every self-planned excursion leads to disaster, the risks involved in leaving the cruise line’s planned excursions behind should not be underestimated.

Weighing the Costs and Benefits

One major factor in deciding whether to book an excursion is the cost. Cruise line excursions are typically more expensive than independent ones, leading many cruisers to seek alternative options.

However, those on a budget may find that excursions provide the best way to experience a port that lacks other attractions.

For example, some ports may be limited to tourist shops, while excursions provide access to cultural experiences, adventure activities, and local attractions that can significantly enrich the trip.

Booking through the cruise line offers peace of mind, as passengers are guaranteed to be back on the ship in time.

For cruisers who don’t want the stress of planning or worrying about timing, this can be a major benefit. On the other hand, skipping cruise line excursions gives passengers the flexibility to explore at their own pace and save money, but without the assurance that everything will go according to plan.

Conclusion

When it comes to excursions, there is no one-size-fits-all answer. For some cruisers, staying on the ship or exploring ports independently is an excellent way to save money and enjoy a more relaxed experience.

For others, booking an excursion may be the best option to make sure they make the most of a port’s offerings.

Ultimately, the decision depends on your personal preferences, budget, and comfort level. Whether you decide to book a cruise line excursion or venture out on your own, the most important thing is to enjoy the journey in a way that makes you happiest.