Welcome to Ocho Rios cruise port, Jamaica!
Ocho Rios is a popular cruise port nestled on the north coast of Jamaica, 100 km/62 miles (1h 45-minute drive) east of Montego Bay, 73 km/45 miles (a 1-hour drive) east of Falmouth, and 84 km/52 miles (1h 15-minute drive) north of Kingston, Jamaica’s capital.
The town of Ocho Rios is known for its bustling harbour lined with hotels, shops, eateries and a variety of natural attractions that you can visit nearby including the stunning Dunn’s River Falls. In this Ocho Rios cruise travel guide, read about:
- Ocho Rios cruise port (Ocho Rios cruise terminal, getting around the port)
- 8 best things to do in Ocho Rios, port highlights, the best Ocho Rios shore excursions
Visit also our cruise guides to Montego Bay, Falmouth, San Juan, St Thomas, Grand Cayman
Ocho Rios Cruise Port
Ocho Rios cruise terminal consists of two piers where large cruise ships dock: Turtle Bay Pier and James Bond Pier (aka Reynold’s Pier).
1. Turtle Bay Cruise Pier
Turtle Bay Cruise Pier is the main pier located in front of the downtown. It can accommodate either one large cruise vessel or two mid-sized cruise ships.
The cruise terminal features a small tourist information booth, a taxi stand, a shaded tour dispatch area and a small coffee shop where you can try the famous Blue Mountain Coffee. Upon exiting the terminal, you’ll see numerous eateries and bars including the renowned Margaritaville.
In less than 5 minutes’ walk you will reach Main Street where you’ll find shops, bars, and supermarkets as well as several city landmarks, such as the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, and the beautiful Methodist Church.
Parallel to Main Street and left from the terminal, you’ll come across the beautiful Ocho Rios Bay Beach boasting soft white sand, crystal clear turquoise water and watersport activities.
2. James Bond Cruise Pier
Also known as Reynold’s Pier, this cruise terminal is located further, around 800 meters (0.5 mi) from Ocho Rios downtown. It is a commercial industrial pier used by both cruise and cargo ships.
James Bond Pier doesn’t have facilities, except for the small parking area for tour buses and taxis. To reach Ocho Rios downtown, turn left from the exit of the terminal and walk approximately 15 minutes along the waterfront sidewalk.
Ocho Rios Practical Info
- There are numerous taxis in Ocho Rios and they have fixed prices per person, however, you should always negotiate the price before the ride.
- Ian Fleming International Airport is the closest airport to Ocho Rios port. It is located 16 km/10 miles (20 minutes drive) east of Ocho Rios.
- Public transport is not reliable and not recommended for cruise ship passengers due to the ship’s limited time in port.
- The currency in Jamaica is the Jamaican Dollar (JMD; symbol J$). 1 US dollar equals around 152 JMD.
- US dollars and credit cards are widely accepted in most touristy places in Ocho Rios.
- Jamaica boasts a warm, tropical climate all year round, with relatively dry winters and springs.
- Cruise lines sailing to Ocho Rios port include Carnival Cruise Line, Holland America Line, Norwegian Cruise Line, MSC Cruises, and Princess Cruises.
- Explore Ocho Rios tours and activities
- Search the best Caribbean cruise deals
8 Best Things to Do in Ocho Rios Cruise Port
1. Dunn’s River Falls
The famous waterfalls rank among the most visited attractions in Jamaica, and the best thing is they are located only a 5-minute drive (3.5 km/2 miles) from Ocho Rios cruise port. The whole complex is set in a lush forest and boasts a beautiful sandy beach and many facilities including shops, eateries, changing rooms, and more.
The waterfall itself is a major attraction – you can either climb it (the climb takes 45 minutes, the activity is considered moderately strenuous and it requires a good physical shape), or you can walk past it (there is a staircase that runs parallel to the waterfall that goes all the way down to the beach).
Useful tips:
- Water shoes are mandatory (you can buy them on-site, however, the choice is limited) and you climb the falls in a swimsuit.
- You will be given a briefing before the start, and it’s important to follow the guide’s instructions during the whole duration of the activity.
- The best way to get there is by taxi or on a guided shore excursion. Considering the short distance from the port, a taxi may be a more affordable option.
- Bring the ship towel
- Bring a camera/phone as there will be no professionals taking photos of you. It is recommended to bring a waterproof phone case for your phone.
- For more info, visit the official webpage https://www.dunnsriverfalls.net/
Check out Dunn’s River Falls tours and activities
2. Swimming with Dolphins
The second best Jamaica attraction is the dolphin interaction at Dolphin Cove, situated close to Dunn’s River Falls, only 5 minutes’ drive (3 km/1.8 miles) from the port of Ocho Rios.
Surrounded by green lush vegetation, this beautiful cove offers various dolphin programs, a small zoo, interaction with stingrays, shark feeding, a bar-restaurant, a gift shop, and a trail through the rainforest that you can explore at your own pace.
Useful tips:
- There will be a professional photographer taking photos of you during the dolphin interaction. You can purchase photos after you finish the activity.
- Bring the ship towel.
- A taxi is the best way to get there due to the short distance from the port.
- Get more information on the official website https://www.dolphincoveja.com/
3. Mystic Mountain Adventure Park
This mountain-top adventure park is located only 2.5 km/1.5 miles from the Ocho Rios cruise terminal.
A park is an ideal place for thrill-seekers, as you get to enjoy activities such as a Canopy Zip Line, riding up to the mountain on the Sky Explorer Chairlift to 700 ft above sea level, bobsledding, waterslides, and so much more! There are shops and a bar-restaurant on-site and the food is delicious with various vegetarian/vegan options.
Check out Mystic Mountain tours and activities
4. Cool Blue Hole Cascade
Situated only 13 km/8 miles (a 25-minute drive) southeast of Ocho Rios port, on Cascade Road in the heart of the lush rainforest, Cool Blue Hole Cascade features a natural limestone sinkhole that got its name from the deep azure hue of the water.
Numerous waterfalls, swimming holes, cliff dives, rope swings, and hiking are some of the natural wonders and activities available, and there are guided tours offered as well.
There are higher jumps for adrenaline seekers and smaller ones for those who don’t feel comfortable jumping from high up. The area is not crowded like in Dunn’s River Falls, and there are great photo opportunities so bring your camera! Also, bring both walking shoes for the hike and water shoes as the rocks are rough.
Check out Blue Hole tours and activities
5. White River Valley
With its warm, crystal-clear waters and beautiful natural surroundings, White River can easily be compared to Blue Hole and other of Jamaica’s natural treasures. The secluded White River Valley is located only a 10-minute drive from Ocho Rios and offers multiple adventure activities including river tubing, adrenaline-packed rafting, swimming, and ziplining.
Explore White River tours and activities
6. CHUKKA Adventures
Chukka is a reputable tour operator that operates in several Caribbean islands and partners with all major cruise lines. They offer a wide range of activities throughout the entire island, including river tubing, ziplining, horseback beach riding, plantation visits, ATV rides, historical tours, rum tasting and so much more!
I had the opportunity to visit Good Hope Estate when our ship docked in Falmouth, and I was stunned by the beauty and tranquility of the place. Besides adrenaline and historic tours, here you can enjoy swimming pools, waterslides, and a replica of Dunn’s River Falls set in a lush tropical rainforest.
Good Hope Estate is located a 1h 15-minute drive (75 km/47 miles) from the port of Ocho Rios. If your ship docks in Falmouth, it’s much closer (only 20 minutes’ drive) so I suggest you visit it from there.
Explore CHUKKA Adventure tours and activities
7. Ocho Rios Beach Break
Ocho Rios boasts a beautiful white sandy beach in the heart of downtown. This public beach is called Ocho Rios Bay Beach and boasts gorgeous crystal clear waters, scenic shaded spots ideal for families, watersports, and other beach facilities (toilets, table/chair rental, changing rooms, and showers). Access to the bars and restaurants is available.
Mahogany Beach, situated a 5-minute drive/30-minute walk from the port, is another great option if you seek a more peaceful and secluded place. Rentable chairs, a beach bar, watersports and other facilities are available.
If you prefer an all-inclusive package, several Ocho Rios resorts offer a day pass option with amenities, food and drinks included. Some of these include Jewel Dunn’s River Beach Resort & Spa and Jewel Paradise Cove Beach Resort.
8. Ocho Rios Downtown
If you decide to stay in Ocho Rios, there are numerous things you can do. In front of the Turtle Bay cruise pier, you can visit the Island Village complex, featuring a wide range of stores, entertainment, coffee shops, bars and restaurants where you can indulge in Jamaican delicious Jerk chicken and island specialties.
The famous Margaritaville and Starbucks are here, as well as a small, cozy Fisherman’s beach.
If you continue walking, upon exiting the terminal you will reach Main Street filled with shops, eateries, banks, pharmacies, markets, and a couple of historic landmarks including the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and the Methodist Church.
To Wrap Up
Whatever you choose to do in Ocho Rios cruise port, make sure you plan your day according to the cruise ship’s schedule. Ocho Rios has so much to offer, and I am sure you will have an unforgettable time in this exciting port of call!
Visit also our cruise port guides to Aruba, Bonaire, Curacao, Falmouth Cozumel, Costa Maya, St Maarten, St Thomas, San Juan, Tortola, St Lucia, Puerto Plata, Punta Cana, Barbados, Antigua, Grand Turk
You may also like our cruise port guides to the Mediterranean, Caribbean, Western Europe, Baltic & Scandinavia, USA & Canada, Australia & New Zealand
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