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Going ashore

Iconic sights, awe-inspiring scenery and compelling local cultures - each port of call is brimming with exciting possibilities. To help you experience the very best from your destinations, P&O Cruises offers a diverse selection of excursions ashore, from leisurely sightseeing to exciting activities.

We're your trusted destination experts

Forget box-ticking, been-there-done-that tours… when you trust us with your shore excursions you’ll always enjoy memorable moments ashore.

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Why book a shore excursion with P&O Cruises

 

We’ve spent years researching and exploring every little nook, cranny and hidden gem in the destinations we visit - with one thing in mind… to offer memorable moments that bring destinations to life for you.

We take care of everything so you’ll never miss your ship. You’ll only ever travel with fellow sailing companions on coach transfers and you’ll always enjoy genuine value for money. When it comes to price, you’ll always know what’s covered before you go. There are no hidden extras, ever. Trust the shore excursions we offer for memorable moments, dependable service and genuine value for money.

Unlike other excursion operators, if port dates change or any other issues crop up, you can talk directly to our shore excursion teams on board your ship. Our teams have spent many happy hours in our destinations, getting to know them like old friends, and loving every moment. We also work closely with local experts, who live and breathe the places you visit.


Introducing Urban Adventures

Keen to connect with local culture? For 2019, we’ve partnered with global tour operator Urban Adventures to bring you a host of experiences that take you beneath the skin of your destination.

From street food and street art to beer-tasting and bike tours, these intimate experiences range from a few hours to a full day-long tour for groups of up to 12 people. Embark on an Urban Adventure to find out what makes a place unique and enjoy a different kind of day ashore.

Behind Las Canteras - Bites, Sights and Stories

Experience Porto’s Bites & Sights

Great Galician Tapas Tour

Sights and Bites

The Little Mermaid statue in Copenhagen

Taste of Athens

Hygge & Happiness

In the City of Bikes

Flavours of Lucca

Tasting La Dolce Vita Sightseeing Tour

Morning Market Food Tasting at Sant’Ambrogio

Valencian Treats and Tastes

Dalmatian Wine & Dine

Experience Lisbon Walk

The Real Taste of Riga

The Original Amsterdam Beer Tour

Foodies’ Feast of Heraklion

Buenos Días Mallorca

Cicchetti & Wine Tour of Venice

Barcelona Tapas Tour

Choose the right tour for you

Activity based shore excursions

Activity shore excursion

If you're the type of person who likes excitement and adventure, there are plenty of active shore excursions that deliver adrenaline fuelled fun, such as:

  • 3-In-1 Rainforest Adventure (Ocho Rios) - Experience 3 exciting activities on this rainforest adventure! Hitch a lift on the Sky Explorer chairlift, ride the Jamaica Bobsled and whizz on a zip line through the tropical, coastal forest of Ocho Rios.
  • Buggy Adventure and Beach (Korcula) - Get behind the wheel of a purpose-built, tubular frame dune buggy and experience a fun-filled ride, followed by some snorkelling or sunbathing at Przina Beach.
  • Caribbean Kayak and Snorkel Adventure (Antigua)- Paddle your way through mangroves, glide over tranquil lagoons and enjoy the crystal-clear waters of the Caribbean Sea on this fantastic kayaking tour in Antigua.

Family shore excursions

Family shore excursions

Family excursions are a great way to introduce your children to destinations in a fun and engaging way, whilst also offering parents an intriguing day out too. Of course, there are also the family favourites such as waterparks and beaches just in case you fancy a day splashing about in the water. See some family friendly shore excursion examples below:

  • Family Sorrento and Pizza School (Naples) -Take a scenic drive along the coastline from Naples to the resort town of Sorrento and go back to school to make a traditional Neapolitan pizza!
  • F.C. Barcelona (Barcelona) - Football fans shouldn’t miss this opportunity to go behind the scenes at the home of FC Barcelona. A tour of the Camp Nou stadium will take you pitchside, following in the famous footsteps of Lineker, Maradona, and Messi.
  • Dubrovnik Snorkel Adventure (Dubrovnik) - A wonderful opportunity to snorkel in the crystal-clear waters of the Adriatic Sea, and discover the marine life that lies beneath.

Cultural shore excursions

Cities

Step off the beaten track to experience some of the local culture, cuisine, and traditions. On these tours, you’ll discover the true essence of a destination on tours such as:

  • Genoa and Pesto Lesson (Genoa) - discover the history of Genoa and then learn the secrets of pesto making, at a cookery school. Learn the correct way to use a pestle and mortar to prepare the most typical ‘Pesto alla Genovese.
  • Mamas and Tapas (Tenerife) - enjoy a truly unique experience, when you sample the culinary delights of a Canarian mama, hosted in the comfort of her home.
  • Croatian Village Experience (Dubrovnik) - at the charming village of Čilipi, you’ll be greeted by a local family and invited into their typical Konavle-style house to enjoy a delicious lunch, consisting of locally-made produce.

Beach and water shore excursions

Water based shore excursions

Spectacular coastlines and long stretches of sand bring lots of options for fun and adventure. Or of course, you may prefer to simply spend the day unwinding on the soft sands of a perfect beach. Example beach and water shore excursions include:

  • Beach Break (Ibiza) - prepare your bucket and spade, and head to the glorious beach of Playa d’en Bossa for some relaxation.
  • Lysefjord and the Pulpit Rock (Stavanger) - cruise along the Lysefjord in Stavanger to see one of nature’s wonders – the mighty ‘Pulpit Rock’.
  • Whale and Dolphin Exploration (Dominica) - take a boat trip in Dominica to search for dolphins and whales in their natural habitat.

Scenic shore excursions

Scenic shore excursions

Experience the scenic side of a destination. Venture into quaint countryside, explore colourful gardens, or see stunning coastal views. Ideal if you want to escape the hustle and bustle of the city during your time ashore. Examples of scenic shore excursions include...

  • Norway in a Nutshell (Flam) - combine some of the most breathtaking scenery in Norway with one of the world’s most spectacular rail journeys.
  • Pearls of the Archipelago (Korcula) - enjoy a relaxing cruise around Korcula’s archipelago, and visit the pretty town of Orebic and the charming island of Badija.
  • Krka National Park and Waterfalls (Split) - visit one of Croatia’s seven national parks, enjoy the breathtaking scenery and see some spectacular waterfalls.

Special interest shore excursions

Special interest shore excursions

Are you a keen bird watcher? Perhaps sport is one of your passions? If you have a hobby or special interest that you’d like to explore during your cruise, consider taking one of these types of tours. And even if you don’t have a hobby, these tours will still give you a fascinating and memorable time ashore. You never know, it might lead to a brand new pastime such as:

  • Puffin Watching (Reykjavik) - wonderful opportunity to observe puffins and other birds in their natural habitat.
  • Sunset and Stars (Tenerife) - join your expert guide as you gaze at the starry skies, whilst surrounded by the lunar landscape of the Teide National Park.
  • Rum Shack and Cricket Legend (Antigua) - a unique opportunity to meet a famous cricketer, sample some Antiguan rum and taste some Caribbean specialities.

Independent shore excursions

Independant shore excursions

These tours are designed for the independently minded traveller. You’ll be transferred from your ship to a convenient location in a major city, with the rest of the day yours to do as you please. No need to tackle the public transport or follow guided tours. Just plenty of time to explore places like the below at your own pace.

  • Rome On Your Own (Civitavecchia) - take 'Rome On Your Own' for example, for a hassle free way to discover the Eternal City.
  • Seville On Your Own (Cadiz) - whether you’ve been to Seville before and want to explore further, or prefer to do your own thing, this flexible transfer from Cadiz is ideal.
  • Florence On Your Own (Livorno) - ‘Florence On Your Own’ is the perfect option if you wish to discover this beautiful city under your own steam.

City based shore excursions

City shore excursions

These excursions are perfect if you want to ensure that you don’t miss any of the main city sights and highlights when ashore. Particularly good if it’s your first time in the destination. Example city tours include:

  • Classical Rome (Civitavecchia) - on this you'll see the highlights of this magnificent city with its enchanting fountains, glorious piazzas, incredible Basilica and imposing Colosseum.
  • Lisbon by Land and River (Lisbon) - what a perfect combination! See the sights of Lisbon city centre and then sit back and enjoy a fascinating and leisurely river cruise along the River Tagus, on this Land and River adventure.
  • Introduction to Venice (Venice) - this introduction to Venice will help you make the most of your time in Venice, discovering the highlights of St Mark’s Square, the Doge's Palace and the infamous Bridge of Sighs.

Exciting new shore excursions

We’re always searching for new tours and experiences to help you have a holiday you’ll never forget. Remember, every shore excursion we offer is tried and tested by us. You’ll always be in the hands of expert guides with in-depth knowledge of the region. You’ll never miss your ship and there are no hidden costs – ever.

Caminito Del Rey

Walking the Caminito Del Rey

A family paddleboarding

Big Stand-Up Paddle Boarding Experience

The Little Mermaid statue in Copenhagen

In the Steps of Hans Christian Andersen

A Tuk-Tuk in Dubrovnik

Dubrovnik by Tuk-Tuk

View from Mount Etna

Golf on the Slopes of Mt Etna

Park Guill Barcelona

Barcelona for Families

Venice waterways

Casanova Walking Tour

Pulpit Rock, Stavanger

Pulpit Rock Flightseeing

Cider tasting in Guernsey

Orchard Cider Farm

Amphibious duck in Lisbon

Lisbon Sights and Amphibious Duck

Traditional paella cooking

Paella Cooking Experience

Got a destination in mind?

Getting off the ship

Shuttle buses

Shuttle buses

In some ports it may be compulsory for a shuttle bus to be used to exit the port due to health and safety reasons. In these instances the shuttle buses will be supplied complimentary for all passengers and all passengers will be notified on-board. If you have booked a opted to book a Select Price all shuttle prices are included in the price of your cruise.

If other promotional prices are introduced, these will not be offered with free shuttle buses in port. The prices for the shuttles vary according to the port and will be advised once on-board.

Port Guides and further information regarding ports of call is also provided once you are on-board.

Tender operations

Tender operations

Wherever possible, your ship will dock at a quayside allowing you to come and go as you please via the ship's gangway. Sometimes, in smaller ports, the ship will anchor at sea and tenders will offer a free and frequent service ashore, these tenders are complimentary and there is no charge to disembark the ship.

Time in port

Time in port

The time the ship will be in port will vary from cruise to cruise and port to port. Time in port variations include...

Half day - will usually be a minimum of 5 hours and a maximum of 7 hours.

Full day - normally a full day call will be a minimum of 7 and a half hours and a maximum of 11 hours.

Evening - will usually follow a full day in port and the ship will depart at or after 9pm.

Two full days - normally will be a minimum call of 32 hours and a maximum call of 40 hours.


Please note that the timings above are based on the ship's arrival and departure times not the length of time you have ashore.

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