16 Best Caribbean Private Island Shore Excursions

You’ll never be lacking for excitement while aboard one of Carnival’s cruise ships. If you’re on a trip to the Caribbean, however, staying onboard 24/7 means you’re missing out on an entire world of shore excursions that are guaranteed to make the experience the best Caribbean cruise imaginable.

Spend a few moments to discover 16 of the best excursions on the most beautiful private islands in the world, dream about walking along the picture-perfect beaches, and start packing those bags because it’s time to start turning those dreams into reality. Whether you’re on a family cruise, a couples getaway, or a singles cruise to a Caribbean paradise, these shore tours and activities will make your vacation truly memorable.

Amber Cove, a Dominican Wonderland

1. Dolphin Swim & Ocean World Day Pass

If you’re like most people, you’ve dreamed about swimming with dolphins at some point in your life. The Dolphin Swim & Ocean World Day Pass excursion gives you the opportunity to indulge that fantasy, joining playful, charismatic dolphins for a once-in-a-lifetime type of experience. Afterward, you’ll get to discover everything else that Ocean World has to offer, from sharks and tropical birds to sea lions and colorful tropical fish.

2. Outback Dominican Adventure with Lunch

A cruise to Amber Cove is more than just idyllic beaches and perfect sunsets. The Outback Dominican Adventure with Lunch excursion takes you for a closer look at the rich history and quiet lifestyle that makes the Dominican Republic such a unique and enviable place. Sit back and relax as your guide tells stories about the culture, coffee, and cocoa beans that have collectively become the island nation’s calling card to the world.

3. Deluxe Catamaran Sail & Snorkel with Lunch & Drinks

Allow yourself to live in the lap of luxury for a day with the Deluxe Catamaran Sail & Snorkel with Lunch & Drinks excursion. World-class snorkeling, scenery that would make a French impressionist envious, and a thrilling sense of adventure on the high seas make this excursion one of the most memorable things to do in the entire Caribbean.

4. Waterfalls Of Damajagua – Adrenaline Adventure

For the thrill seekers onboard looking for what to do in Amber Cove, the Waterfalls Of Damajagua – Adrenaline Adventure excursion is a perfect choice. Take full advantage of one of the Caribbean’s best-kept secrets: go sliding down natural water slides and plunge into sparkling freshwater pools while surrounded by awe-inspiring waterfalls.

Half Moon Cay, A Bahamian Jewel

5. Tropical Kayak Adventure

There’s a whole other side of the Caribbean that too often goes unexplored. The Tropical Kayak Adventure lets you discover that other side by taking you into Bonefish Lagoon and allowing you to explore the incredible wildlife and flora from a guided kayak tour. Equal parts adventure and education, this excursion should be at the top of the list for our inquisitive guests on a cruise to The Bahamas.

6. Horseback Riding by Land & Sea

While you’ll never be lacking for things to do around Half Moon Cay, the Horseback Riding by Land & Sea excursion has become one of the most popular choices while cruising The Bahamas. You’ll saddle up and follow your guide through winding trails and breathtaking views, ending your tour by riding horseback through the translucent blue waters of the Caribbean.

7. Stingray Adventure

The ocean is still a place of mystery and wonder, even in this fast-paced, hyper-connected world. The Stingray Adventure is a portal into that world, giving you the opportunity to get up close and personal with the beautiful and graceful stingrays on their home turf. This fascinating excursion allows you to reach and touch the enigmatic creatures, learn about their habitat, and walk away with a far greater appreciation for the underwater kingdom.

8. Beach Villa

Sometimes you just need to treat yourself to the finer things in life. The Beach Villa activity is one of those finer things, giving you exclusive access to a luxury, two-story beach pad equipped with air conditioning, a five-person hot tub, and some of the best views in Half Moon Cay. Enjoy this secluded retreat for some quiet relaxation in a true Bahamian jewel.

Mahogany Bay, Rugged and Beautiful Honduras

9. Canopy Tour & Tabyana Beach

Have you ever wondered what it’s like to fly through a beautiful forest without a care in the world? The Canopy Tour & Tabyana Beach excursion gives you the opportunity to experience that very thing, letting you soar across seven zip lines that traverse the lush Honduran tree canopy. Afterward, you’ll get to relax on Tabyana Beach where the forest meets the crystal clear Caribbean to create a moment you’ll never forget.

10. Maya Key Private Island, Snorkeling & Lunch

A cruise to Mahogany Bay gives you the chance to bask in a secluded paradise and leave the world behind. The Maya Key Private Island, Snorkeling & Lunch excursion personifies that thought, giving you access to a private island for a day where you can soak in the sun on a perfect beach, snorkel the vivid reefs teeming with sea life, or inspect the Mayan ruins that frame the picturesque environment.

11. Beginner’s Scuba

It’s one thing to admire the brilliant Caribbean sea life from afar and another to dive in and see it up close. The Beginner’s Scuba activity teaches you the basics of scuba, guided by an expert to lead the way. However, this excursion isn’t just a teaching session – you’ll go on your first dive in the blue waters of the Bay Islands before you’re done. Consider it the first step in a lifelong passion for underwater discovery.

12. Mayan Princess All-Inclusive Resort with Open Bar

The Caribbean has so much to offer, it can be difficult to find time to squeeze it all in. The Mayan Princess All-Inclusive Resort with Open Bar shore excursion lets you sample the best of an exclusive Caribbean resort, all within a single booking. From tropical gardens and waterfalls to relaxing beaches and refreshing pools, this excursion lets you enjoy the resort experience with a convenience that’s tough to find anywhere else.

Princess Cays, the Best of The Bahamas

13. Snorkeling at Princess Cays

No cruise to The Bahamas is complete without taking a dip in the inviting water and swimming amongst sea life so colorful, you’ll think you’re dreaming. The Snorkeling at Princess Cays excursion provides everyone that chance, not just the scuba divers on board. Let a local guide point out the amazing coral reefs, vivid fish, and even a sea turtle if Lady Luck is on your side.

14. Princess Cays Coastal Cruise

Princess Cays is like an all-you-can-eat buffet for the senses. There’s so much to see and do, you might have a tough time even deciding where to start. The Princess Cays Coastal Cruise can help with that dilemma, taking you on a relaxing cruise along the most breathtaking shoreline you’ve ever seen as you absorb a feast for the eyes. Afterward, you’ll have time to shop, kick back on the beach, or let the adrenaline flow with one of many water sports available.

15. Dune Buggy Heritage Adventure Tour

If you have an explorer’s spirit, the Dune Buggy Heritage Adventure Tour is perfect for you. Get behind the wheel of your very own dune buggy and speed through jungle trails, quaint Bahamian towns, and along secluded beaches, learning about the endearing local culture and history as you go.

16. Glass-Bottom Boat Cruise

Relaxation and underwater exploration aren’t mutually exclusive. With the Glass-Bottom Boat Cruise excursion, you get the best of both worlds, touring the gorgeous waters while staying dry and letting an expert guide do all the work. Not wanting to dive into the water shouldn’t prevent you from seeing the wonders just below the surface.

Make the most of your Carnival cruise to the Caribbean and enjoy some of the private island shore excursions available to you. Whether you’re looking for a new experience for yourself, something your kids will absolutely love, or some quiet time with your significant other, these excursions have something to offer everyone. On that note, do some research, book your cruise and excursions, and grab the sunscreen because the unforgettable waters of the Caribbean are waiting for you.

Note: Onboard activities, shore excursions, and dining options may vary by ship and destination.