Cruise in August - any recommendations

[jmccown]

First off, I know the POV on cruise ships damaging the reefs, but I've never been on a cruise and want to do so at least once in my life. Can you guys recommend a cruise line? I am presently looking at a carnival cruise that goes to grand cayman and cozumel in august. My questions are these good scuba/snorkeling locations. I have never done either and want the best possible experience when I do this because I likely won't be able to do it again. Looking for feedback from those who have been diving/snorkeling in these areas. Or if you have another cruise line that you'd recommend please share info.

Thanks,
Jason

 

[percula99]

I have been to both locations on a Carnival cruise and found it very worthwhile. Carnival makes sure their excursions are run by reputable people and they are first class. Snorkeling in Cozumel was pretty good through the excursion. I don't know the name of the reef or company we snorkeled with however. Chances are if you buy it through Carnival you would be going to the same place. Also look into the Atlantis submarine dive. We went 108 feet below the surface. Pictures on the promos show lots of brightly colored fish and corals. However, you need bright lights for colors to show that deep. Everything that deep is blue. I did not snorkel in Cayman but took the Stingray City excursion. That is the most popular excursion in all the Caribbean offered by all the cruise lines.

One tip, you can save big money if you just go out on the wharf when you are in port and hire some of the local excursion companies. They may not be as good however. I don't know for sure. In Hawaii, that's what I did and it was worthwhile there.

 

[billsreef]

I prefer Norwegian cruise lines. They run smaller boats, so somewhat less crowded as opposed to the immense floating cities of Carnival. As for the diving/snorkeling in Grand Cayman and Cozumel, both are excellent locations, but have some differences. Cozumel has very strong currents, so the diving and snorkeling are done drifting with the dive boat following you. Stick to a reputable company or the boats excursion. Cayman doesn't have such strong currents, and the reef is excellent there. There are several good dive ops, as well as some good snorkeling only a short walk (a few hundred yards) from the docks in Georgetown.