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Destination FAQs

What are shore excursion options?

The list of shore excursion options is nearly endless but some of our favorite shore excursions include snorkeling in the Caribbean, hiking Glaciers in Alaska, exclusive access to historic sites and locations, and diving into the local culinary arts with a cooking class in Tuscany.

How do you choose shore excursions?

Shore excursions are designed to add local flavor and fun to your shore time in port, so choosing a shore excursion should start with your interests. From wildlife encounters to private beach getaways, there are shore excursion options for everyone onboard a cruise ship. If you don’t already have an excursion in mind, browsing through the options can be the first step in choosing. Consider your group – whom you are travelling with and their interests and be sure to check out the activity rating on tours before making a final decision.

Is it cheaper to book shore excursions on the ship?

Every once-in-a-while shore excursions may be “cheaper” or priced lower on a cruise ship if there is space available as the tour date approaches. With tours selling out so quickly well before embarkation, booking ahead is recommended if there is something you “must-do or see”. All the best shore excursions sell out first, so securing your reservation ahead of time, alongside Venture Ashore’s Don’t Port, Don’t Pay policy, and our flexible 7-day cancellation policy – you can never book too soon

Can you do 2 shore excursions a day?

Yes – participating in more than one shore excursion a day, or port-stop, is possible with careful planning and itinerary monitoring however, it can be risky as even the slightest changes in the itinerary can affect one or both tours. We recommend working with one of our tour specialists to put together a custom itinerary that includes both ‘must-do’ activities if there is enough time in port.

Where are shore excursions available?

Shore excursions are available in hundreds of port destinations world-wide. Some of the most popular destinations for shore excursions include Alaska, Europe, the Mediterranean, and the Caribbean. Venture Ashore offers excursions in 500+ ports across 111 countries and all popular cruise destinations.

Who is Venture Ashore?

Venture Ashore by City Experiences delivers amazing shore excursions for your cruise itinerary in over 500 destinations. Owned and privately held by Hornblower Group, the global leader in world-class experiences and transportation, Venture Ashore offers unique small group and affordable private shore excursions dedicated to bringing you the best experiences in port. Our Essential Collection is an award-winning collection of exclusive experiences expertly managed by our seasoned cruise team and local guides. Our customer-centric policies of Don’t Port, Don’t Pay and a Back-to-Ship Guarantee are included with all our excursions, and our industry-leading flexible booking with deposit and 24-hour cancellation ensure you enjoy a seamless and immersive excursion every time.

What is the Essential Collection?

The Essential Collection is the best way to see key sites and highlights in any port destination. Essential Collection tours are personally curated and expertly managed by our seasoned cruise team and local guides. Along with small group experiences, comfortable transportation, and professional local guides sharing their knowledge, guests can be sure that they are getting the best value in shore excursions with the intricate itineraries and value-driven pricing of the Essential Collection.

How can I book?

Venture Ashore offers booking flexibility with easy online booking and white glove customer service available during working hours across the US and UK to ensure our guests have access to our knowledgeable team when needing more information about a tour or to book over the phone. Please call us toll free at: 844 491 4164 or 0800 091 8274.

Can I cancel?

Venture Ashore is proud to offer an industry-leading cancellation policy on all tours at no extra cost. Guests can cancel up to 7 days before the start of their tour for a full excursion refund. For guests looking for extra flexibility and peace of mind, 24-hour cancellation is available through Venture Ashore Ticket Assurance, which can be added to your booking at the time that your initial reservation is made.

Do you offer group shore excursions?

Groups of 12 or more can travel in a private customized shore excursion that is organized and facilitated by a Venture Ashore Group Specialist who will personally oversee the group and provide dedicated complimentary service. Our Specialists are experts at creating amazing custom experiences with a diverse product portfolio to accommodate the interests and budgets of any size group. Visit our Groups page for more information.

What is the Back-to-Ship-Guarantee?

For all excursions that include transportation to and from the cruise port we guarantee to get you back to your ship in time for your cruise ship’s departure. If for any reason beyond our control you are not able to return to your ship in time (road accident, extreme weather delay etc.) we will cover the cost of your transportation to the next port of call and assist in making your arrangements. Please see our terms & conditions for full details.