When you’re arriving into a new port with a camera in one hand and a daiquiri in the other, there’s one big question you’ll eventually have to answer – do you go with the cruise line’s excursion or explore on your own?

We’ve done both. Sometimes we’ve’ve been on an air-conditioned bus with a guide waving a little flag; other times, we’ve found ourselves in the back of a local taxi with no seatbelts and a lot of faith. Both choices come with their perks (and pitfalls), and over time, we’ve figured out how to decide what’s right for each stop along the way.

Cruise Line Excursions: Safe, Structured, and Stress-Free

If you’re new to cruising or heading to a port that feels a bit outside your comfort zone, booking an excursion through the cruise line is the easiest route. They take care of everything, transportation, entrance fees, guides and best of all, the ship will wait for you if your group runs late. That’s peace of mind you can’t overvalue.

Pros:

• Guaranteed return to the ship
• Curated experiences with reputable operators
• Easy logistics (just show up!)

Cons:

• Pricier than doing it yourself
• Often less flexible or rushed
• Group sizes can be large

Exploring On Your Own: Freedom, Flexibility, and Local Flavour

Some ports practically beg to be explored independently. Think: small, walkable towns like Kotor or Dubrovnik, or a beach destination where all you need is a towel and a cab. Going solo can be more affordable, and you’ll often get a more authentic experience.

Pros:

• Cheaper and more customisable
• Set your own pace
• Great for return visits or seasoned travellers

Cons:

• No ship protection if you’re late
• You do the planning and navigating
• Less structured = potential for hiccups

Top Tip: If you go DIY, build in plenty of time to get back to the ship, at least an hour buffer and if you’re nervous about language barriers or logistics, consider third-party excursion companies that specialise in cruise travellers (like Shore Excursions Group or Viator) and offer return-to-ship guarantees.

So, Which Should You Choose?

• Big-ticket sights? Go with the cruise line or a vetted third-party tour.
• Laid-back beach day or familiar destination? Explore on your own.
• New country with complicated transport or long distance to attractions? Stick with the cruise.
• Confident traveler in a compact port? Wander freely.

In the end, it’s not about “right” or “wrong”, it’s about how you want to experience the ports you visit.

Sometimes, the best moments come when you blend the two: a short tour in the morning, followed by a spontaneous lunch in a side-street café you discover on the way back.

Because while the cruise is your floating home… the real adventure begins ashore.

Check out our Port Guides.