Costa Maya Excursions

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fi0na

Guest
What would you suggest for Costa Maya? The ruins? Going on the Carnival Inspiration, was thinking of the Stingray snorkle in Grand Cayman, the Dolphins in Cozumel and the cave-tubing in Belize.

Thanks
 
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Natalia

Guest
All of the excursions you mentioned are great! I've done all but the dolphins, but I have read great things about that too. For Costa Maya, we went to the Chacchoben Ruins. It was a great tour, in my opinion. If you havent been to any other ruin sites, this is a good thing to do in this port. Another thing, for the stingrays and the cave tubing, take independent tours. They are much less crowded, less money and a better overall experience. There are several reputable tour companies for both. Enjoy your cruise!!
 
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fi0na

Guest
Which tour did you use for the ruins?

Yes, I was thinking (based on everything I've read on this board) that the independent tours were the best. My friend thought the ship tours were "safer" (if held up getting back the ship would wait?) but really, how often does that happen?

fi
 
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Natalia

Guest
For Chacchoben, we took a ships tour (sorry, I should have mentioned that!). It is a bit of a drive to get to the site, maybe 45-60 minutes. They provide nice charter busses. However, considering its distance from the pier, if you were to have a transportation problem... that could be a mess. Thats why I would only recommend the ships tour for that particular excursion. Back when we went (2002), I dont think there was another option. Maybe now there are independent tours that are reliable, I just dont know. If you take a ships tour, the ship will not leave without you. When we were there, our departure was delayed by over an hour. We had a balcony on the port side (facing land on this occasion) and were sitting out on it enjoying the sunset and wondering why we hadn't left yet. Then 6 tour busses came through the plaza, drove all the way up the pier right to the ship. They were full of people from the ruins tours (not sure which tour, there are a few sites they offer from this port). Had they been off on their own, we would have sailed away without them. Any time you take a tour that is independent of the cruise line, you run this risk. And yes, they will leave you behind, Ive read about it happening. As for the other ports, I think independent tours would be fine. You just have to be careful what you choose, and be very mindful of your time. Make sure you know what the ships time is and if there is a time difference in port (often the case). I should also say that the tours Im talking about were done on Princess, I have never sailed with Carnival, but assume that they would have the same basic policies. If you arent sure which specific tour to pick, just ask for opinions here on the board, and others will give you some input.

Edited to change the word "boat" to ship... heaven forbid I call it a boat! :lol



Post Edited (04-30-04 11:15)
 
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NellieB

Guest
We were completely useless in Costa Maya! Took a taxi to Majahaul and spent the day at a beach bar directly on the beach where we drank XX Beer w/limes ALL DAY! What FUN! Reminded us of our college days at the beach! :)
 
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fi0na

Guest
Great site Helen, thanks for sharing. That sounds cool, what you did in Costa Maya. But in mid-Aug, would their schools be open I wonder?
 
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BamaBelle

Guest
We did the ruins tour in Costa Maya and it was well worth it. Definitely take the ship's tour as we were late coming back, but they held the ship for us. They drove us right onto the pier and up to the ship. The bus ride was long, but you get to see Mexican villages and jungle that you don't see if you stay at the shore.
 
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Rosie

Guest
We really enjoyed the Kohunlich ruins. Our excursion was thru Celebrity and the two guides we had were very informative. The drive thru the countryside was an education - not the glitz you see in the resort areas, but very primitive living.
 
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hkolln

Guest
Yes, the schools are open in August...they only close for one month....I can't remember if that month is June or July but I know it's not August and then they are open the rest of the summer.

It was a wonderful experience seeing the kids and seeing their faces light up when we gave them even the simple things like lollipops! OMG...something I'll remember the rest of my life.

Even if you can't bring any school supplies you can always bring them some lollipops or balls or something to play with and just sit and visit with them....you'll be truely amazed at how they welcome you no matter what you bring :)
 
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