Jamaica Falmouth Excursion considering non DCL

[Bear3412]

Please look over this thread if possible.

Click around the headers is helpful.

http://www.cruisecritic.com/ports/newport.cfm?ID=510

 

[lillygator]

we booked courtney taylor based on reviews...we sail in December!

 

[SonyaShay]

so looking for those that have done excursions in Falmouth. I'm looking at either DCL DF and Bobsled or looking at a non DCL tour to Blue Hole with lunch.
Thoughts? Feedback on using non DCL?

June 2015 we used SNL Jamaican Tours to go to Blue Hole and Scotchies. The owner, Lindsay, worked in costuming on the Disney Magic in 1998/99. I never once felt out of place outside the gates with my daughter (7) and niece (8). I would book again with him without hesitation! He provided so much history to us on the 45 minute drive to Ocho Rios. I never imagined I would learn so much in such a short time.

The first area he took us to at the Blue Hole is an area that many other tour operators, including Courtney Taylor Tours, does not use. This meant we were the only people in this area for over 30 minutes. Then we took a short walk through a wooded area to the main area of Blue Hole and found the crowds of people. It wasn't unbearable but it was MUCH more crowded than our original area.

People will try to get you away from outside vendors becuase "what if you miss the ship". Think of it like this though- these private tour operators fully depend on bookings to provide for their families. They will do everything in their power to make sure you do not miss the ship. One person missing the ship that posts all over the internet could damage their busness tremendously. All they want it to provide you a wonderful day.

 

[iluveeyore]

We have been trying to decide what to do in Falmouth for months now, all non-DCL, but ones that would pick us up safely at port. Finally decided and booked today with Braco Stables for the horseback ride and swim - neither of us have been to Jamaica, so what better way to enjoy the beautiful hillsides and beaches than with a leisurely journey on a horse, and then to be able to swim in the Caribbean sea on a horse's bare back and relax on the beach for a while? Sounded great, lots of good reviews, and they pick us up at port for a quick 10-15 minute drive to the stables. Very excited to do this with DH.