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Cheaper, Better Cruise Shore Excursions: 15 Tips
Shore excursions are one of the biggest extras on a cruise bill, and the ship's own tours are often the most expensive way to see a port. After years of trying every option, we now book some through the ship, some independently and some on the day. These are the 15 things that have saved us the most money, or saved us from a disappointing day.
Short on time? Compare the same tour on the ship's website and with independent specialists before you commit. That one habit does most of the work.
Looking for the bigger picture first? Read our guide to booking through the ship vs independently.
The 15 Tips
Start Planning Early (but don't book everything)
As soon as you book, look at the ports on your itinerary. Cruise lines usually release excursion listings months ahead, and popular tours sell out. Shortlist what you actually want in each port, then decide which of those are worth locking in now and which can wait.
Price-check the same tour three ways
The internet is your best friend whenLook up the ship's price, an independent price and, where you can, what local operators charge. The same tour can differ noticeably. Start with the cruise line's website, then compare with an independent specialist such as Viator. Read recent reviews, not just star ratings.
Try independent operators
Independent operators often run smaller groups and charge less than the ship's version, and you can read what recent travellers said before you pay. They are not automatically better, so look for plenty of recent reviews from cruise passengers. Check the operator's cancellation terms and return-to-port timing before you book.
Understand what you give up
If your ship's tour is delayed, the ship waits. If an independent tour or your own day out runs late, it does not. The ship sails on schedule. That risk is small if you plan for it, and it is the main reason some people stay with the ship. Our rules: know the all-aboard time (earlier than sailing time), be back at least two hours before it, and keep the port agent's number from your Daily Programme.
Split a private tour
A private car or small-group tour can cost less per person than the ship's coach tour once you split it, and you set the pace. If you are travelling with family or friends, or have met people on a roll call, share the cost. Be wary of the reverse: some ship tours need a minimum number of bookings and are cancelled if they don't reach it.
Book direct with local operators
Local guides can give you a more personal day than the standard route, often for less. Check they are licensed and insured, read recent reviews, and confirm exactly where you'll be dropped off and when. If in doubt, stick to operators who regularly work with cruise passengers.
Use the ship's shuttle or a hop-on hop-off bus
Timing can significantly impact the cost and experience of your shore excursions. Try to book excursions during off-peak hours. Early morning or late afternoon tours are often less crowded, allowing for a more intimate experience.
Additionally, consider booking excursions on days when fewer cruise ships are in port. These days are usually less crowded, and prices are more budget-friendly.
Skip the tour where the port is walkable
Some ports are best explored on foot from the quay. Research the port in advance, download an offline map and set off. Decide what time you'll turn back, and stick to it.
Book the sell-outs early
Don't try to time prices. Cruise line excursion prices are fixed. We have noticed that Cunard often discounts its shore excursions if you book via the MyCunard web portal before you sail. We have enjoyed savings of 10% by booking ahead. The better tactic is to book the tours that genuinely sell out (Alaska is the classic) as soon as you can, and leave flexible ones for later. Ask yourself which ones you'd be gutted to miss.
Related: Discover the Best Locations to Stay on a Cruise Ship
Use forums and roll calls
Travel sites and forums are useful for honest reviews and operator recommendations. Cruise Critic roll calls are a good way to meet people on your sailing and share private tours. TripAdvisor is useful for operator reviews in many ports.
Negotiate, safely
In ports where bargaining is normal, you can negotiate on taxis and local tours. Be polite, agree the price and the return time before you leave the quay, and don't hand over money until you know exactly what's included.
Check what's already included
Use onboard credit and watch for promotions
Set a budget for each port and stick to it. When comparing prices, check what's actually included: equipment rental, entrance fees and transport can all be extra.
Final thoughts
Cheaper and better shore excursions come down to comparing prices, reading recent reviews, knowing your way back to the ship and not trying to do everything. If you only do one thing, compare the same tour on the ship and with independent operators before you book.
