We Took a Caribbean Cruise to a Risky Port. We Refused to Go Ashore.
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- เผยแพร่เมื่อ 14 มิ.ย. 2024
- Join us as we share our cruise experience and unveil why we decided to remain on the ship.
We took the advice of the US Department of State and our own government not to leave the ship in this port. They advise avoiding travel because of violent crimes, such as home invasions, armed robberies, assaults, and homicides. Assaults occur frequently, including at all-inclusive resorts.
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00:00 Intro
00:35 Why Did We Not Get Off At This Port?
01:00 The Name of the Port
01:14 Royal Palooza Parade
02:10 Main Dining Room Lunch on Royal Caribbean
03:30 Sea Day Activities on Royal Caribbean
04:47 Our Experience at the Port of Falmouth, Jamaica
07:00 Jamaica is not safe for tourists
08:23 U.S. State Department Warning
09:03 How to stay safe in Jamaica
11:00 Sea Day on Explorer of the Seas
12:12 Shops on Explorer of the Seas
12:58 Bad Internet on Explorer of the Seas
14:00 Giovanni's Table Review
16:45 Arriving in Georgetown, Grand Cayman
18:25 Buffet Lunch in the Windjammer Marketplace
22:13 Tendering to Grand Cayman
23:30 Visiting Hell in Grand Cayman
26:14 What to do in Grand Cayman
27:00 Playing Mini Golf
29:13 Has the Main Dining Room Improved? Our Review.
29:50 Ice Skating Show
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Me and my husband will never get off at this port either. We are a mixed race older couple and we had a terrible experience at the Dunns River Falls excursion. The vendors were so aggressive and a man actually verbally attacked me because I told my husband I did not want to buy anything from his vending booth. Then others around him joined him. We have been on three different cruises that stopped at his port and we will never support this port again. I really think the cruise line should reconsider stopping at the port and supporting this kind of behavior. We did not feel safe at all, and I am an African American. I understand and support your decision 100%. Love your content.
I absolutely love Dunn river falls!!
As a person of Jamaican parentage , you guys DID THE RIGHT THING. Safety is the key, and you guys called the correct shot. Even though Jamaica is a nice place, the PEOPLE are killing the Island. For the other folks who decide to go ashore, please be careful, and stay in groups. Too many things are happening in Jamaica right now, that gives cause for concern. This is coming from someone who has visited Jamaica over 25 times. Most recently last month.
It’s so awful because the majority of people in Jamaica are the loveliest and most friendly people!
So sad. There are so many beautiful countries around the whole world that would and could make amazing tourist spots but are made too dangerous by some
Omg that’s so sad! We have a cruise planned during Christmas. I’m hoping the situation will change then.
@mrsdiaz614 hi my dear. Don't leave the cruise port without a cross body bag. Small banknotes. Play deaf to begging and harassment for tips and money.
Stay with the tour groups. DON'T EXPLORE ALONE. don't give anyone your personal information. You will be harassed for money with sad stories and declaration of love and marriage. Bring your own water shoes and water bottles. Don't pay the 1st price asked, barter the price. If you want any more info please feel free to ask.
@@reggaeprincess6043ji
I avoid cruises that stop in Jamaica if possible. Several years ago, I made the mistake of getting off the ship there and was continuously offered drugs. Some of the drug sellers were just steps from the security checkpoint. Going back through Jamaican security, they took my bag completely apart, even opening a lip balm to see what was inside. If they wanted to stop drug sales, they could walk just a few feet from the checkpoint and stop the sellers. However, their intention was clearly to catch unsuspecting tourists in a trap.
A note on travel insurance - If there is a travel advisory then your insurance company may not cover you if something happens. Check the fine print of your policy and online updates.
Yes, I about from a chap in the UK who wanted to go on a cruise to Labadee which is on the UK "do not travel" list. His insurer would not cover the entire trip from leaving the UK to returning. He did say he would not leave the ship and the insurer said as the ship was docked in Haiti, it was still a planned trip and his insurance was invalidated. th-cam.com/video/HaoI0taWG34/w-d-xo.html
I've shared this here before, but over 35 years ago on my very first cruise to Jamaica, the shipboard port talk about Jamaica concluded with, "If someone beckons you over to them, DO NOT GO OVER. They're likely law enforcement trying to entrap you for wanting to buy drugs, and they'll even arrest you just for walking over - they'll say you knew it was for drugs." My family and I stopped at Falmouth on a Disney cruise last October and stuck with the excursions offered by the cruise line, having a great time at a private beach club, but back in the port at Falmouth while looking at t-shirts in a souvenir shop just before heading aboard, a woman who said she worked at the shop tried tell my wife to "just pay her here" and "that way she won't have taxes," and tried to unzip my wife's backpack to put the shirt into it. My wife, wisely, loudly told her NO, I'LL PAY AT THE REGISTER, THANK YOU, and then put down the shirt and immediately left. She's still shaken by that experience and doesn't want any part of Jamaica.
A sad reality 😞
Our ship stopped in Jamaica last year and after reading the reviews, I decided not to book any excursions before hand. I figure we could just relax on the ship, but my wife wanted to see the island so I booked a last minute excursion to tour the city. It was an experience, observing the gap between the rich and poor, the poverty and the traffic, was such a sad state of affair. I remember going through a rich neighborhood and just seeing fenced off areas and bars on windows in all the houses and then going through an area where you saw people struggling to eke out a living. I really felt guilty, and it left an impression with me.
So just like most Caribbean islands ? ( Not picking on you ) Look at the significant window bars in Nassau on main st stores, the view just beyond the fences in Labadee, even in San Juan the walls around houses topped with glass shards .
I don't feel guilty. This is what civil wars and revolutions are for. The people need to stand up.
That's pretty much every place on Earth?
Love you channel watching with my mum tonight she said what lovely fellas bet their wife's miss them being away so much, bless her
I laughed out loud (I live by myself) with your remark about the belly flop contestant taking out 3 children! Very funny Ben
Sorry you went thru this. Me and my wife had an incident at that port. We was about to get on a taxi and a lady kept harassing us to buy stuff but what trigger my wife to go nuts was. The lady grab my son and said…hey tell mommy and Daddy to buy you this shirt.
My wife pushed her away and lucky a soldier/cop was there and pulled us away and Reccommnended us to go back to the ship. We ask why and he said they are always armed and it could be trouble for us. We agreed and he escorted us back to port. Loved that guy for doing that for us. I gave him $100 for getting us back safe. He didn’t want it but I made him take it.
The young man reported the situation with us to Carnival and Carnival did take care of us. Well my son. Lots of nice goodies for him. ❤
That is nuts! So sorry that happened
We had a guy come up from under a bridge we were walking over (not even kidding) and grab my son to try to put a necklace on him (that I'm sure he would have then insisted we pay for) and I about lost my shit. The necklace did not end up on the kid, and the kid got yoinked right away from the creep. Poor Chris, I think he's still traumatized from that one and he's 27 ..he thought I was mad at HIM and yanking him because of it lol We toodled around the port area for a few more minutes and decided to just get back on the ship. Couldn't relax after that one.
I understand completely. I too had a bad experience there. They are very aggressive. There was a lady that grabbed my pouch insisting that I buy something. I had to pull it away from her and started walking back to the ship. Once you pass that gate into open area, its all bad. Stay inside that gate unless you're going on a shore excursion. Stay safe.
Absolutely why reviews like this are needed. You not only discuss your experience which you stress is yours and review the cautions from the different countries. You have others like this couple with a child shows how dangerous it can be for everyone. Easily if you didn’t know you may have your older teens get off thinking it is safe and find out it otherwise. While it can happen anywhere there are some places safer than others. I love your reviews you both are very good at covering the ship the extras and what is and isn’t worth the price. I love that you try and show how to keep it cheaper and it how it is still just as good without paying a lot more. I also appreciate how you really make a point to appreciate the staff and realize when it is the management expectations vs the worker that is the issue.
Shocked that ANY cruise line would still stop there!
We went to Falmouth, Jamaica on our first cruise last year with Disney. We had a very similar experience - very aggressive people trying to sell us stuff and throwing homophobic abuse at us when we refused. I’ll never go back!
I'm due to dock in Jamaica next week on my Carnival Horizon cruise, and I'm planning to not leave the ship. I found my last trip to be FULL of harassment - either people pestering you for money, or trying to get you into their 'taxi' - a total nightmare!
Ben absolutely STARVING at 11am is so relatable. I love him.
In Ocho Rios men would not leave my teenaged sons alone, pestered them non stop about buying drugs. This was in the area with the shops after our excursion. We got back on the ship as fast as we could.
As soon as you said "things we would rather not repeat" I sadly knew exactly what was coming and what you meant. Despicable. 2023. And this still happens. I'd be like you guys, sure it was 10 years ago but it's gotten WORSE? My ass is staying on the ship and enjoying the short lines for everything and not stressing out. Well done boys
We visited Kingston on our cruise and the poverty was horrible, the kids sitting on roofs begging for us to throw food or clothes etc was really upsetting. They see us arriving and walking about in nice fenced off areas where they are locked out of in their own country... I'm not making excuses for the robberies but I'm not surprised. We declined to disembark in Mexico
Very good point. I have heard that in Jamaica the locals aren't even allowed to go to the beaches where the tourists go. Talk about segregation.
Can you say what Mexican port that was pls
You guys are so much fun! I know I’ll never be able to cruise so I’m living vicariously through y’all. Thanks for sharing your time with us 😊
My husband and I went to Jamica Montego Bay & Grand Cayman Islands this past May 2023 had no problems on none of our stops, but I do know it really bad now. (WE HAD NO CLUE AT ALL) We did a Carnival excursion. Our guide was very nice and knowledgeable. They knew where to take us so everyone would be safe. We all gave tips without out them asking for anything. I must say it's clear who are the have and the have nots. We also, stop on the way back in Cozumel Mex. (We stayed at the Port) We went after the news reports on a group of Americans who went there for Cosmetic Surgery were kidnapped and two of them were killed some drug dealers thought they had taken Nigeran drug dealers but that was not the case.
We did not enjoy Jamaica on our Disney cruise in 2016 either. Port area was OK, the rest scary. In 2018 we went to a wedding in Jamaica as well, also did not enjoy, even just the transfer to resort/airport experience. It’s the only port we actually avoid and really don’t understand why the cruises keep stopping there.
My husband took our kids off on Jamaica for an excursion on a cruise about a year ago. I refused to get off and only agreed to let the kids go because it was an excursion with transportation. The kids weren't impressed by Jamaica at all. They wouldn't get off there again. You made the right decision.
I don’t understand - you thought it was so unsafe that you wouldn’t get off the ship, but you let your kids go? This makes zero sense. Either you didn’t think it was as dangerous as you make it to be, or you don’t care if whatever your afraid of happens to your kids.
We usually stay on the ship when we stop in Ensenada, Mexico. Or shop at the souvenirs shops in the terminal. In Acapulco Mexico we were harassed so much by the vendors we ran back to the boat.
My cousin and his partner were told that couples like them are against the law. Also, never wear camouflage clothing.
The further I get into this video the more playful you two get, so much fun. You guys are adorable!
I hope that cruisers stop paying for specialty restaurants . Everything should be included just like the old days.
Hurricane rerouted one of our port to Falmouth last week on Celebrity Equinox. We did get off the ship and visit the shops at the port area, but we didn't feel safe to go beyond the port area where there is a gate with police standing at the entrance and exit. We walked back to our ship and swim at the pool deck instead.
Sorry to hear your experience was so bad in Jamaica. I took my senior mom on a Mexican Riviera cruise on Disney in 2019 and in Mazatlan I remember being fearful because of the guys running the excursion were not kind people. They sat my mom far away from me on the open air vehicle, and I had to stand up and demand that she sit with me. I was ready to rumble but I speak Spanish so that tends to scare people when I start speaking Spanish.
My only experience with cruising is years ago with Royal Caribbean cruise with stops in Cayman Island, Cozumel, Labadee and Jamaican port (I forgot which one) . They were great and pleasant. and then we arrived in Jamaica and I was terrified at the port. I wanted to turn around and go back to the ship but my group had all scattered all over the place and I did not have a cell phone. The people at the port were very aggressive and grabbing my arm. I very politely said No and kept walking. I heard few saying nasty words about "cheap Chinese" and I felt like they followed me for quite a ways. No I am not Chinese but it doesn't matter. I felt very unsafe. I stupidly filled out some form about receiving tourist infos while in a shop. For years I kept getting calls about free trips and when I turned it down they were very rude. I appreciate your tips on what to do on board when everyone else is at port
Sorry that you had a bad experience in Jamaica. I went there a few times and had nothing but fun. No aggression or shady stuff. I’m a cheap Chinese.
How was the Cozumel port?
I have been watching your content for years and I like the addition of safety and security advice. I think including more of this in your future videos would be nice because y'all do it so well here. Things like pick pocket awareness and knowing where your embassy is, etc. Love your content!
I am very grateful for your safety information about Jamaica. I think this safety information is an excellent addition to all the fantastic work you're doing. Thank you!
My husband and I have been to Falmouth several times. We only went on an excursion (Royal Carib) the first trip there. We had armed guards at the beach and off duty police on the bus. We only stay in the port area now. Maybe because we're a middle aged couple, we've never been approached about drugs. What's really weird is that in Jamaica all drugs are illegal, but people regularly report being offered them. We've also seen people leave the port area on foot which we would never do. We do, however, love the Blue Mountain coffee so we always buy a lot in the port to bring back home.
I love you two and your videos. I’ve been to Falmouth and took the long ride to Dunns River Falls. It was so sketchy. But my uncle left his phone on the van and it was actually returned!!
My friends sister and husband were in a five star plus hotel and given a private tour believing this to be safe they went ..and were robbed ..they weee sure the driver was involved..as he was not surprised or worried or robbed ! This was At gun point bound and gagged in a private car ..
This was back in 1980s…this isn’t new ..don’t be fooled by reputation..as you can see.
They tried to pursue it and guess what the hotel claimed the driver was not involved..they knew the truth and the police 🤷🏻♀️yes ..not bothered . This isn’t new .
My sister-in-law had a bad experience in Jamaica in the 1980s as well. You're right. It's nothing new.
I don't even believe cruise lines still stop in Jamaica. About 15 years ago we stopped in Jamaica. It was my SO and our teenage son. We decided to take a private cab to Ocho Rios to the falls. The cruise line assured us the cabs were monitored, vetted and safe. We took a cab and he drove us into the mountains stopping at local roadside shops where we felt pressured to buy. The worst part was he stopped at a desolate area and another car pulled up. He told us his "friend" would be taking us the rest of the way. We were basically trapped so were forced to go with the other car or be stranded. He did take us to the falls and we got a return ride home so all was ok but it was NOT ok and we were accosted by numerous sellers along the way despite cops patrolling with machine guns. On the plane ride home there was a woman crying the entire flight (she was with her parents). I asked the FA if she needed any help. She told me the woman was inconsolable due to being raped while staying at a private home she "won" on eBay. The house came with a butler and chef and when they left for the evening some criminals came in, robbed them, and raped the mom. Horrific. Will never go back to that island
Omg, that is horrible. I will NEVER EVER get off there.
Realy love you guys. It feels like going on a cruise myself if I watch your posts. It is rare to find people who are kind, gracious, elegant and funny!! Thnx and keep up the good job. Kind regards from Antwerp!!
Our pleasure!
Falmouth was one of our stops on Explorer in March 2023. We loved it. We did an excursion and the local people were so nice. No one was approaching us with any drugs. The tour bus driver never harassed us for tips. We sat and talked to local people for a while. We looked at it as there is just as much crime and foolishness in the States. We did notice that most of the tourist were rude to the local people when they entered the shops. We said hello and spoke to everyone. There is amazing history about that area that you can only get from the locals. Our daughter stubbed her toe and the locals were so kind and attentive. Maybe we enjoyed it because we finally wasn't the minority while traveling. It was amazing and relaxing! 16:58
@bronzefox9035, I get your point. However, I do get people saying to me, "my sister, my sister, let me braid your hair." I get that in the USA!
I am so sorry you had that experience! I thought you guys did a great job in how you framed the situation and included government warnings. Thank you so much for sharing!!
People will just stop going to these ports if this trend continues and cruise lines may have to reconsider their itineraries - it’s a real shame because the locals must rely on tourism for income. 😏
It’s so sad as the majority of locals are so lovely and the friendliest people!
Been like this for DECADES and neither the cruise lines or the islands have moved to change it.
How awful for you both 😮 such a shame that this happens you just never know which way it may go
Indeed these port are waiting for cruise ships so they can make money ,just awful that other local or not think differently demand you spend your money 🤔
Would not. surprise me if there are many more incidents reported. The cruise ships will have to decide if its worth the risk bringing passengers to these ports 🤷♀️.safely come First all time 😊.
Safe jouney 🥰
Knowing all the problems & crimes going on at some ports, you would think cruise lines would avoid them. Sad the Jamaican govt would try to clean up their act.
You stated that it's Sad the Jamaica govt DID TRY TO CLEAN UP THEIR ACT. NO YOU'VE GOT IT IN REVERSE! IT'S SAD THAT THE JAMAICA GOVT WOULD NOT (EMPHASIS NOT NOT NOT) TRY TO CLEAN UP THEIR ACT. Lord preserve us against bad English and confused English usage and grammar. Dickens would be appalled.
When I went there were police with guns. I felt safe! People just like being emotional and exaggerating! Stay on your outing and stop trying to scare people off!
@@HoneyLove77 "Stop trying to scare people off!" Will you be telling that to various governments who are warning travelers as well?
@@irishfergal my mistake......Bad government in Jamaica has been in existence for many many years & has only gotten worse. I feel bad for the good people who are just trying to survive day by day. Get rid of the thugs.
@@dhutch457 many people on here are just ignorant, unfortunately,then Ben and David have to listen to them.🤐
Makes me wonder why the cruise lines don't shut down these stops?
I would guess they have cheap docking fees to encourage the tourism
I just knew this would be Jamaica when I saw the title.
Didnt know about specific travel advisories but that port was bad when i was there 10 years ago.
I actually laughed out loud when you said that you were starving - "it's like I've never eaten before"!! Love your videos!
I've felt the same way about Nassau. Last time my husband and I got off we felt uncomfortable as they kept asking us in many different ways if we wanted to buy weed. Once they started getting too close and tapping our shoulders, we were done and went back to the ship.
On our last cruise we didn’t get off in Nassau either. We have a young son and I could not relax after the torment we went through the last time I was there. Boat was empty, got good seats by the pool and enjoyed the boat.
When we went to Nassau we had a local offer us a tour around the island.. we decided not to go.. too sketchy no one would know if something happened.
Oh geez . I've been there 25 times at least . Sketchy 🙄
Agree! Crossed the line when they start touching you in ANYWAY. DO THEY THINK WE ARE ALL Pot Heads at 60? My brother and sister-in-law were “Gifted” a 10 day Honeymoon at Sandals, in the Bahamas , 25 yrs ago. They were not asked for input on the destination. They got to Sandal’s and never left the property. The Suite next to them was robbed so the kept valuables on their persons at all times. 25 yrs ago? Never got drunk and took full precautions including a security guard to escort them back to their suite at 10pm at night.
I wouldn’t spend the night in the Bahamas. But compared to Jamaica😊, looks like a church retreat.
So very sorry for your experience there, be safe and take care. It’s not worth it to be unsafe, we love you guys too much. ❤
Hi guys, just letting you know that at 6:20 you used a clip of Barbados 🇧🇧 and not Jamaica. Barbados is a completely different island
Loved Explorer, was 6 yrs ago! Such a shame about Jamaica, my friend went on honeymoon to a 5 star resort and was chased back to hotel on the only evening they went out, she was petrified. Great honest info guys with an extra sprinkle of nonsense which I love..!
You two are my favorite Cruise advisors.. I just had to share that, thank you both 😊
Thank you for another fantastically entertaining video! My husband now looks forward to them as much as I do. You bring joy to so many of us! Much ❤ from Chicago.
Thanks so much
I was in Jamaica in 2018 at a resort. We were told not to leave the resort unless we had someone escorting us. My friend needed something and one of the ladies running the spa had her husband escort her so she’d be safe.
Maybe about 6-7 (approximately) years ago, I read & heard that RCCL and Falmouth almost had a parting of ways due to just the things you have mentioned. Royal had built their Falmouth port as a joint project with the Jamaican government. As a result, the government had interveined and I thought that this had been stopped.....probably not completely and was much better. I'm so sorry this happened to you. RCCL certainly needs to get this under control or passengers will refuse to get off the ship.
I just shared this video (the Falmouth portion) with my sisters, niece, and a friend. We're all going on a cruise in January and Falmouth is one of the stops. I was already on the fence about getting off the ship in Falmouth, but I think your video is swinging me towards staying on board and just having a relaxing day of reading.
Went to Montego bay in the 90's and Ocho Rios in '01 both times were the most unsafe that I've ever felt. Could not shake the drug dealers, always waiting for us when we exited a building. Both times we returned to the ship quickly. I've told my now husband that if we ever port there, that we will not be getting off. I have no idea why Royal would make such an investment in a place that has been this horrible for so long.
For our 1st anniversary 2002, we took a cruise which included a stop in Jamaica. I remember it was Montego Bay. The minute we were off that ship, on the ship sponsored excursion, going back to the ship, we were harassed constantly ! The pushing of items, drugs, braiding, tips and pan handling. What a horrible day ! We agreed to never go back again. The cruises we have gone on ( over 20 years now ) do not include Jamaica !!!
My son lived in St.Thomas in 2016 for a little over a year.
He told us there was a LOT of unreported violent crime.
Usually messing with tourists was a no no.
There's quite a bit of resentment because of the lack of upward mobility for most natives.
Rightly so.
You made a wise decision.
Serendipitous timing on this video! My hubby and I were considering an all inclusive resort trip to Jamaica but your video helped us decide to make alternate plans. We booked a cheap 7 night cruise on MSC (yuck, we know) with a drink package and WiFi instead. MSC Seaside October 29th leaving out of port canaveral. We usually sail Celebrity or RCCL but this will be our second MSC cruise.
We've always hoped to run into you boys on one of our adventures but have never had the pleasure. Maybe someday! Thanks for all the great videos and the particularly good timing on this one!
Thanks for the super helpful commentary and wise insights about the current danger/risk level in Jamaica…surprises the cruise industry does not drop the port call as it’s clearly putting their passengers at risk. Separately your light hearted comments aboard ship are lovely and hilarious… thanks guys…from an old retired US Navy vet in Washington DC.. Bravo!
Thanks Guys! That was such an enjoyable 30 minutes. You do a great job taking us along on your adventures.
I went on a cruise 30 years ago that stopped in Jamaica. Getting off the ship then was a huge mistake, especially walking from the port. I was offered drugs, black market money, and prostitution within a few moments of leaving the dock. Sales people were pushy and rude, trying to get me to take things I didn’t want. And even the excursions through the cruise line were crap; the snorkeling is horrible as the reef is dead, and Dunn’s River Falls is a tourist trap. The “rocks” at the falls are man made concrete, sculpted for climbing them, and a bit dangerous. And when you get to the top you are hounded by people trying to sell stuff. I don’t know anyone who has had a good experience in Jamaica. 20 years later, one of my employees went there on his honeymoon. He and his wife were robbed in the elevator of their resort hotel.
Ben & David, I just can't get enough of the both of you. You make me smile. I decided to watch a video of yours every. morning before I start my day. It makes things all together better. Cheers!
I've never been on a cruise in my life, but it's so fun watching you guys. Keep doing great content!
As always, you give us great information with humor and style. Thanks!
We cannot tell you how much we adore both of you and hope that someday we end up on the same ship.
I appreciate your honest opinions. Thank you both for sharing ❤
When we stopped in Jamaica last year our cruise ship, (which was one of Oceania’s ships) would not allow us to get off of the ship and just go into the town. Instead, they loaded s onto buses and took us to excursions that were several miles inland. We took one of the bamboo rafts, (like they used to use to transport bananas to awaiting ships until Arrol Flynn made them famous for tourists), with a “pilot” who used a long bamboo pole to guide our raft for 6 miles down the river to meet our bus again. They informed us that there was just too much crime for them to let us out in a town. Oceania does have a more mature crowd and I think that the cruise line did the right thing. We loved our excursion, but my husband was a little upset that there were no souvenir stops.
My friend and I went to Errol Flynn's place near Portland and it was FABULOUS! Quiet, uncrowded, no harassment. We treated our driver to lunch and just had a fantastic day. Funny how all the locals from St Anne on ALL hated the rotten seed ruining it for the island. Even they wouldn't go south to Kingston. Sad...
Thank you for the heads up about the Falmouth port! And I agree with you about the subject of tips. Great content, as always.
I've been to Falmouth twice with absolutely wonderful experiences. This was all before the pandemic however, and we booked excursions through the cruise line. I am so sad that Jamaica is having so many problems with crime as I would love to see that island again. It is so very beautiful!
It is so sad because it’s so beautiful and the majority of people are amazing and so friendly!
@@Cruisewith Agreed. And the more they miss out on tourism dollars, the harder it is on the folks trying to make a life there.
I love Sundays, just for your new videos!!
Same!
Yay! Thank you!
I had a port visit in Jamaica years ago. Glad I got to see their beautiful scenery but said I would never get off the ship there again! It's a shame because it really is beautiful there.
Wow! This is a very emotional video for me. I absolutely love Jamaica and its people. However I totally acknowledge the concerns of the LGBTQ community. Unfortunately your experience is not an isolated one. Jamaica has a lot of work to do to ensure all feel welcome. I do take issue with comments from others referring to the country as a "rathole" and crime ridden. The vast majority of Jamaicans are hard working, kind, and hospitable people.
Thank you, Ben and David, for sharing your experience. That took so much courage! I just hope people base their opinions on facts and not hearsay and sensationalized reports. Happy cruising everyone!❤
The vast majority of the people ARE hard working and kind, but there is no denying the island has become crime ridden. That's just a fact, unfortunately. Most unfortunate for the decent people there, because the low lifes are going to make it so that tourism is no longer possible there. I'm not basing that on hearsay, but personal experience. It absolutely does not feel like a safe place to visit anymore.
I agree, both my parents are jamaican, i was born in london, but have been visiting jamaica on a regular basis since i was a child ; in 2019 i was in jamaica and decided to visit the mineral bath in st thomas, my vehicle was followed by 3 guys on motorbikes all the way up the windy rd that takes you to the entrance, at the entrance they were other undisirables hanging about harrassing visitors, i decided not to leave my vehicle, turned it around and drove back to my apartment in new kingston, i'm not easily intimidated, but the island is getting dangerous, their is a serious lack of law n order, on the public services, and in the institutions on a whole
Thank you for the information, my Disney Cruise is going there in March and we’ll have kids with us. I’ll make sure to let the other families know. You have to wonder why the ships are still stopping there, you would think they wouldn’t want the liability.
Ben I think you were very wise to stay on board in those ports. Life is precious and fragile, better safe than sorry or regretful. You and David are our favorite cruise channel bar none. What I would like to see you guys review are all inclusive in more safe locals such as the USA, or Canada if there any as we think with all the extra fees for seemingly everything and drop in service levels cruising is loosing the appeal to us. We cruised to Alaska in June with Princess but the food and service was about 1/3 the quality and rating than prior to covid and we hear it keeps getting worse. So maybe to secure an edge in your channel maybe look at undertaking different types and locals for travel
I went to Jamaica in the early 80's and me and my friend were bothered the whole time we were there...constantly trying to sell you drugs and or buy their services.... I would never go back again.... I am not rich, and I had to work hard to afford that trip, but to some of the residents of this country you appear rich and will be a target for anyone trying to make some money.
I really enjoy these videos. You two do so well in informing and providing me a feel of what to expect and watch out for. You are so well spoken and your communication is outstanding. Just wanted to give you both a heads-up and a thumb-up to your content....Good Job!!!
And I just subscribed and liked this video...
I really appreciate this video as I always find it helpful to hear about caveats especially when it comes to travel.
Hey Ben & David.. My husband and I , can't wait to Sunday. The only thing we miss , is the day, month, year . You guys is on the ships. We are from Denmark and love too see you. Thanks for all the videos and information ❤❤
Just got back yesterday from our family cruise and we had an absolute blast! Working on the next one😃
Hello from Texas! Yall are so fun to watch, and very informative. This is one of my fav cruise channels. Thank you guys.
On our very first cruise, 1999, Enchantment of the Seas, we also visited Hell. Back then, people still sent snail mail, so of course we got our postcards stamped with HELL. We actually had an OK visit to Ocho Rios, Jamaica, though we did have to bat some people away. Last Christmas went to Montego Bay on Viking, and they herded us immediately onto buses. No one pushed “ganja” on us at all, not even the guys who pushed us downriver on rafts with wooden poles. But we know it could have been awful.
Excellent review of the reality of Jamaica. I hope for her people there comes an end to this.
I hope when things like this happen (in Jamaica), that you report this to the ship. Don’t wait until after the cruise is over to report it. Especially, the ship sponsored excursion. Cruise line can wield a lot of power and can either try to correct, or just skip the port altogether. Thanks for the video.
How can people not want to watch you both you are both so funny,kind,and just wonderful to Steph I have watch you from the day you started and I for one will never stop watching you xxx
This is a very useful review.
I'm truly sorry you had such an experience.
Sunday is Ben and DAVID day , best day of week.❤
Thanks, Men! Jamaica and Nassau are two places we will not get off at. Purely personal. 😢
Even before Covid a lot of these ports were extremely iffy 😱I can’t believe why Reputable Cruise Companies knowing these Ports are now even more aggressive and are actually now dangerous and they are till taking their passengers to these ports is outrageous and irresponsible 😡 Ben and David Thank you for your very strong warning on your podcast! (Kudos to you! 👍) A few years ago my girlfriend and I let our husbands on the ship to do some shopping and got surrounded by men pulling on us and wanting money,(TERRIFYING) fortunately an officer intervened and escorted us back to our ship!👍👍👍
Good on you both for not getting off and keeping safe
I’ve had wonderful times in Jamaica as a gay man myself. Once with my family when my sister got married in Ocho Rios, and the second time on a cruise visit to Montego Bay with my partner. At Montego Bay we did a “self-made” excursion in one of the vans. About ten of us as passengers didn’t have a plan, got with one of the drivers and guides and they showed us around the area, and it was great. Never got accosted by anyone to buy drugs or forced for tips. In our tour group was another older gay man who dressed very flamboyantly. The guide and driver refused to let him off on his own at one of the stops, I think Margaritaville, but it was nice they were thinking of his safety and were tolerant of him in our group.
Gay people still get killed in Jamaica because it is one of the most homophobic countries.
It may be that these issues have just come to be more of an issue now with all the other issues Jamaica is having. Thankfully you all had an amazing time 💗
Hi Guys. Thanks for all the videos and this is a timely warning not just for, in this case, Jamaica but all ports. There's always someone somewhere ready and eager to spot an opportunity to take advantage of what they deem to be an easy target. The level of abuse you report is scary especially the demand for tips which are discretionary to say the least. Take care guys and look forward to the next video.
You guys and your antics are awesome! Keep up the great work!!
Being a solo cruiser, I was at port in Ocho Rios and never felt so unsafe in my life. I was followed. I do not like the Jamaica ports at all. I rather be safe and stay on board. Thank you for sharing your experience. I totally agree about this port. Lots of fun things to do on the ship instead.
7:29 we went to Jamaica with MSC this summer and really worried about if we should get off, with our 2 young kids. We did choose a cruise excursion, and we actually had a great time(konoko falls and Puerto Seco Beach break). Our port was Ochos Rios, but the tour actually went much further across the island than I expected. No one pressured us for tips (even in places where I would have expected it, like taking a photo with a snake), we were not offered, or even smelled, drugs. And in the line back a seller gave my kid a free toy, which I handed back telling him I had no cash and couldn't buy something, and he just shook my hand and told my son to keep it. It was the total opposite of what I'm used to with the vendor shakedown. We obviously have the privilege of not dealing with homophobic encounters or the additional safety concerns that go with that.
Ocho rios seems to be a staple for MSC as it’s on itinerary this coming March. It’s good to know your experience was good as we are traveling with small kids too. I’ll need to keep a close eye on the travel advisory and make the decision to disembark or not. Right now tbh leaning to staying onboard. A pool day never hurt no one 😅
Thank you for your response. Many like to report small negative things and fail to mention the small positive moments. Jamaica is a like a S.E. old home to me and I hope it gets better.
We had a great time at ocho rios. We did an excursion at Dunn river falls and then a beach
Ben thank you for sharing your experience in Jamaica. It's so important for tourists to know. I'm glad you opted out of another visit to shore!
My pleasure!!
What an incredibly well edited video. Very good advice too.
I did a horse riding shore excursion in Ocho Rios about 12 years ago and we had a machete pulled out on the whole group. Doesn’t seem safe to get off even when you book through RC!
Good thing you had hooves to outnumber one machete though? I understand hooves hurt.
We too decided to not venture outside the port on our cruise this past January based on the Anti-LGBT laws in place in Jamaica. We posted a video about it as well on our channel.
I just love you two …your reviews are so honest and interesting. I’m with you on staying on board if you’re not sure on the port. I’ve stopped going to the Caribbean (too many trips) and the last time there were a few dubious moments. I laughed at your review of Hell…I enjoyed that tour and sent the family “postcards from Hell”. Happy and safe travels from 🇺🇸
Thank you guys for all your videos. So helpful and you are both so lovely xx
I'll keep this short ... You both are so witty throughout this and every one of your videos!
We couldn't agree more guys. We never get off in Jamaica, very aggressive people, and is not enjoyable. We consider it an extra sea day to enjoy the ship.
I'M HERE FOR IT!!! You guys make my Sundays better.
❤️
That happened with me as well my cousin, and I got off the port in Montego Bay, Jamaica, and returned right back. It looked very shady, and I was not comfortable at all.
Thank you for this very informative vlog
Glad it was helpful!