Shore Excursions Sold Out?
Shore Excursions Sold Out?
Are your shore excursions sold out on your next cruise?
It’s been a common problem for all cruise lines since Covid.
Before Covid, the world was stocked with a good supply of tour guides in nearly every port.
However, when Covid came along, it put these people out of work, and this part of the travel industry has yet to recover.
Carol and I are headed to Iceland this summer, and we’re faced with the same dilemma.
So, what’s the solution?
Answer? Have a Plan B in your back pocket if this happens to you.
Several companies provide shore excursions for cruise guests. If you find yourself frustrated, take a peek at these links:
- Context Travel – This is my personal favorite. These are very small groups, and even private tours, in cities worldwide. The tour guides are highly competent (historians, chefs, and the like); we use them whenever possible. Because these are very small groups or private, these will be the most expensive. But in my opinion, worth it.
- Shore Excursions Group: With this company, you put in the name and date of your cruise, and they will show you the shore excursions they can provide in each of your ports. Nice. Right?
- Viator: This company is owned by TripAdvisor and has an ample supply of tour guides worldwide.
- Tours By Locals: Another option for shore excursions worldwide.
If your cruise company offers a waitlist for shore excursions, get on it, as many times you’ll find that the cruise lines have been able to secure more space. And if not, you’ve got Plan B in your pocket. Ensure you also understand the cancelation policies of the above companies, as these policies tend to change occasionally.
Also, we can’t help you decide on a particular shore excursion. We’re unable to know the qualities of each guide in this list. However, we have confidence in the companies providing this service. Therefore, pick one in your area of interest and go for it.
Further Reading: If you’ve been frustrated with cruise line air offers, please read this article.
Lastly, check back on this article in the future as we plan to add a few more companies after our due diligence.
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We have used Trips By Locals for years both in the US and abroad and have never been disappointed. We recently used them in Malaga and Malta before, and after our sailing cruise.
Nadeen, Thanks for the tip. That is one of the companies we are exploring to add to our list.
I have used toursbylocals quite successfully over the past 10 years. Good for groups of two or more. Can buy cancellation insurance very cheaply and if not used, they allow you a credit on your next booking. Really fair. Recently used them in Turkey.
Thanks for sharing!
We have used getyourguide.com quite often in many cities. Great value, never disappointed, small groups, easy to reserve and cancel.
Rich,
Thanks for sharing. 🙂