Kingston’s harbor offers practical and worthwhile boat excursions that make the most of Jamaica’s tropical setting. The standout option is Cool Runnings Catamaran’s all-inclusive cruise from Runaway Bay, which combines excellent service with good value. Their sunset harbor cruise hits the sweet spot – you’ll get authentic Jamaican food, unlimited drinks, and unbeatable views without tourist traps.
For visitors wanting more flexibility, private boat tours provide easy access to secluded beaches and coffee plantations in the Blue Mountains. The best part? Most tours include hotel pickup, eliminating transportation hassles.
I’m especially fond of the smaller harbor tours that dodge the cruise ship crowds and offer intimate views of Kingston’s historic waterfront. These provide better photo opportunities and more meaningful cultural insights.
Check out these selected boat tours that deliver the best Kingston has to offer.
Key Points
- Kingston Harbour and Beach Cruises offer Friday evening and Sunday cruises with a buffet-style lunch, alcoholic beverages, and soda.
- Unique Catamaran Experiences like the Cool Runnings Catamaran provide all-inclusive tours from Runaway, starting at $90 per person.
- Adventure and Sightseeing Tours include the Luminous Lagoon Tour, Dunns River Falls Cruise, and Portland Blue Lagoon Experience.
- Coffee and Cultural Experiences like the Craighton Blue Mountain Tour and the Bob Marley Museum Tour provide in-depth exploration of Jamaica’s heritage.
- Kingston City Tour and Private Transfer Service offer comprehensive sightseeing and transportation options for visitors.
Friday Evening Kingston Harbour Cruise, Sunday Beach Cruise or Charter Our Boats
Regularly, the Friday Evening Kingston Harbour Cruise, Sunday Beach Cruise, or Charter Our Boats options offer visitors a chance to explore the picturesque Kingston Harbour and nearby beaches.
Rated 4.8 out of 5 stars with 96% of travelers recommending the experience, these tours provide an enjoyable atmosphere with a buffet-style lunch, alcoholic beverages, and soda included.
Though not wheelchair accessible, the tours accommodate most travelers. Customers praise the friendly staff, music, and overall vibe, though some have reported issues with food quantity and music quality.
Safety protocols are in place, and refunds are handled through Viator, the booking platform.
Read our full review: Friday Evening Kingston Harbour Cruise, Sunday Beach Cruise or Charter Our Boats Review
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Craighton Blue Mountain Coffee Tasting & Farm Tour From Port Royal Cruise Port
For those seeking a more immersive and educational experience beyond the harbor and beach cruises, the Craighton Blue Mountain Coffee Tasting & Farm Tour from the Port Royal Cruise Port offers a chance to explore the rich coffee culture of Jamaica.
This private tour transports guests in an air-conditioned vehicle to a renowned coffee farm, where they’ll learn about the production process and sample the renowned Blue Mountain coffee.
Lunch is included, though drinks must be purchased separately. The tour accommodates most travelers, but those with certain medical conditions may want to reconsider.
Priced at $237.18 per person, this experience comes with a lowest price guarantee and flexible cancellation policy.
Read our full review: Craighton Blue Mountain Coffee Tasting & Farm Tour From Port Royal Cruise Port Review
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Cool Runnings Catamaran From Runaway
The Cool Runnings Catamaran from Runaway offers a delightful opportunity to explore the scenic waters surrounding Kingston, Jamaica.
Operated by COMING2 JAMAICA LTD, this all-inclusive tour provides a maximum of 55 travelers with light refreshments and soda/pop. Priced from $90 per person, the experience features free cancellation and unlimited rescheduling up to 24 hours before the start.
While not wheelchair accessible, the tour welcomes children accompanied by adults. With a solid 4.0 rating from 4 reviews, the Cool Runnings Catamaran promises an unforgettable day on the water, complete with dancing and amazing crew members like Jada.
Read our full review: Cool Runnings Catamaran From Runaway Review
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Private Transfer From Kingston Hotels to Montego Bay Cruise Port
Travelers visiting Jamaica often need to move between their Kingston hotel and the Montego Bay cruise port. This private transfer service provides a hassle-free option.
The air-conditioned vehicle offers comfortable, private transportation with all fees and taxes included. Pickup points are available, and travelers can select their preferred location.
The service operates 24/7, so travelers can confirm their pickup time with the local provider. While the transfer isn’t wheelchair accessible, it’s stroller-friendly and accommodates service animals and infant seats.
Travelers can reserve now and pay later, and free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the experience. The starting price is $343.12 per person, with a lowest price guarantee.
Read our full review: Private Transfer From Kingston Hotels to Montego Bay Cruise Port Review
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Devon House Ice-Cream & Shopping Tour From Port Royal Cruise Port
Devon House, a historic landmark in Kingston, serves as the backdrop for an engaging ice cream and shopping experience. Operated by El Sol Vida, this private tour takes visitors on a journey through Jamaica’s culture, offering a chance to indulge in the renowned Devon House ice cream and explore the property’s boutiques.
Priced from $121.80 per person, the tour includes an air-conditioned vehicle, an English-speaking guide, and lunch. Pickup is available from the Kingston/Port Royal Cruise Port, with a start time of 9:00 AM.
The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible but is suitable for most travelers. Visitors can secure their spot with a reservation and take advantage of the free cancellation policy up to 24 hours before the experience.
Read our full review: Devon House Ice-Cream & Shopping Tour From Port Royal Cruise Port Review
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Exotic Catamaran Party Cruise and Snorkeling to Dunns River Falls
Whisking visitors away from the shores of Runaway Bay, the Exotic Catamaran Party Cruise and Snorkeling to Dunns River Falls offers an immersive Jamaican adventure.
The 6-hour excursion takes travelers on a catamaran cruise, where they can enjoy complimentary Jamaican beef patties, alcoholic beverages, and live entertainment.
The highlight is snorkeling at the iconic Dunns River Falls, a stunning natural wonder.
The tour includes entrance fees, use of equipment, and round-trip transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle. Guests are advised to bring towels, water shoes, and sun protection.
With a maximum of 25 participants, this cruise provides an intimate and exclusive experience for those seeking to explore Jamaica’s natural beauty.
Read our full review: Exotic Catamaran Party Cruise and Snorkeling to Dunns River Falls Review
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Luminous Lagoon Boat Tour From Montego Bay
The Luminous Lagoon Boat Tour from Montego Bay offers visitors a mesmerizing opportunity to witness the natural phenomenon of bioluminescence.
Operated by El Sol Vida, this private tour takes guests on a boat ride to the renowned Luminous Lagoon, where they can observe the glowing waters caused by microscopic plankton.
The tour includes hotel pick-up and drop-off, admission fees, a private air-conditioned vehicle, and an English-speaking driver/guide. Guests can choose to add optional meals and drinks at an additional cost.
The tour starts at 6:00 PM and isn’t wheelchair accessible, but infant seats are available.
Visitors can book the tour with a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours before the experience.
Read our full review: Luminous Lagoon Boat Tour From Montego Bay Review
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Portland Blue Lagoon Swimming and Boat Ride Experience Jamaica
Situated in the picturesque town of Portland, Jamaica, the Portland Blue Lagoon Swimming and Boat Ride Experience offers visitors a chance to enjoy the natural beauty of the region.
Operated by Island Kodesh Tours, the tour includes a visit to the serene Blue Lagoon, where guests can enjoy a refreshing swim, as well as a canoeing ride.
The experience includes bottled water, WiFi on board, and an air-conditioned vehicle for transportation.
Lunch, at an additional cost of $20 USD per person, and a boat ride for approximately $50 USD per person (with group discounts available), complete the package.
Pickup is provided, with guests meeting the driver in their branded shirt and vehicle 15 minutes before the 8:00 AM departure time.
Read our full review: Portland Blue Lagoon Swimming and Boat Ride Experience Jamaica Review
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Kingston City Sightseeing and Shopping Tour From Port Royal Cruise Port
Travelers visiting Kingston, Jamaica can embark on a comprehensive Kingston City Sightseeing and Shopping Tour from the Port Royal Cruise Port.
The tour is operated by El Sol Vida and is a private activity, allowing only your group to participate. The 9 AM tour includes an air-conditioned vehicle, all fees and taxes, as well as port pickup and drop-off.
An English-speaking driver/guide will provide commentary during the tour. While lunch is included, meals and drinks must be purchased separately.
The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, but most travelers can participate. Cancellations are free up to 24 hours before the experience starts.
Read our full review: Kingston City Sightseeing and Shopping Tour From Port Royal Cruise Port Review
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Bob Marley Museum Express Tour From Port Royal Cruise Port
For those visiting Kingston, the Bob Marley Museum Express Tour from the Port Royal Cruise Port offers a captivating glimpse into the life and legacy of the legendary reggae icon.
Operated by El Sol Vida, the private tour provides an air-conditioned vehicle, professional chauffeur, and all necessary fees and taxes. Guests can expect port pickup and drop-off, as well as the opportunity to enjoy lunch, though meals and drinks must be purchased separately.
While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, it’s stroller-friendly, and most travelers can participate. With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and a reserve now, pay later option, this tour provides a flexible and immersive Jamaican experience.
Read our full review: Bob Marley Museum Express Tour From Port Royal Cruise Port Review
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Bob Marley Museum and Kingston Sightseeing From Port Royal Cruise Port
This comprehensive tour allows visitors to explore the remarkable life and enduring impact of Jamaica’s most celebrated musical icon, Bob Marley.
During this excursion, guests will explore the Bob Marley Museum, located in the artist’s former residence, and gain insights into his influential legacy.
The tour also includes a sightseeing experience through the vibrant streets of Kingston, providing a glimpse into the city’s rich cultural heritage.
Travelers will enjoy the convenience of an air-conditioned vehicle, complimentary lunch, and an English-speaking guide.
With the option to reserve now and pay later, this tour offers a seamless and enriching exploration of Bob Marley’s Jamaica.
Read our full review: Bob Marley Museum and Kingston Sightseeing From Port Royal Cruise Port Review
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Common Questions
What Are the Safety Precautions for the Boat Tours?
The boat tour operators prioritize safety, providing life jackets, adhering to regulations, and ensuring vessels are well-maintained. They also brief passengers on proper boarding and disembarking procedures to minimize risks during the tour.
Are There Any Dietary Restrictions for the Food and Drinks?
The boat tour providers generally accommodate various dietary restrictions, including vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options. They encourage guests to inform them of any special dietary needs when booking to ensure a pleasant and inclusive experience.
Do the Tours Offer Discounts for Seniors or Children?
Many of the boat tours and cruises in the area offer discounted tickets for seniors and children. Travelers should inquire about specific pricing and age requirements when booking their tour to take advantage of any available discounts.
What Is the Cancellation Policy for the Boat Tours?
Most boat tour operators have flexible cancellation policies, often allowing customers to reschedule or receive a full refund if they cancel within 24-48 hours of the scheduled departure. Specific policies may vary, so it’s best to check with each company.
Can I Bring My Own Equipment for Water Activities?
Generally, visitors are allowed to bring their own equipment for water activities on these tours. However, it’s best to check with the tour operator beforehand to ensure their policies allow for personal equipment and to inquire about any safety guidelines or restrictions.
The Sum Up
Kingston offers a variety of boat tours and cruises that allow visitors to explore the city’s picturesque harbor, scenic coastline, and iconic attractions. From evening harbor cruises to farm tours and museum visits, there’s something for every interest. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing day on the water or a chance to learn about the local culture, Kingston’s boat tours and cruises provide a unique and memorable experience.