Ocho Rios Cruise Port Guide Info
Situated in the north of Jamaica, surrounded by lush, green vegetation, and in the proximity of the island’s main natural attractions, Ocho Rios is a charming town and one of the frequent cruise destinations in Jamaica. The cruise terminal consists of two piers where large cruise ships can dock: Turtle Bay cruise pier, located in front of the town, features a small tourist information booth, shops, taxi stand, and Margaritaville at the end of the pier; James Bond cruise pier (Reynold’s Pier), located further, at around 800m (0.5 mi) from Ocho Rios downtown, is a commercial industrial pier used by both cruise and cargo ships. Reynold’s Pier doesn’t have facilities, except for the small parking area for tour buses and taxis, and the town is within 15 minutes walking distance.
Ocho Rios is a small place that has a beautiful beach in the heart of the town – Ocho Rios Bay Beach, a lovely, family-friendly sandy beach offering watersport facilities, and a few bars and restaurants. The Main Street that you can spot upon exiting the terminal area, is the longest street in Ocho Rios offering shopping and dining opportunities, as well as several city landmarks, such as the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, and the beautiful Methodist Church.
Jamaica boasts many natural attractions, and one of - Dunn’s River Falls, is located around 4 km from the Ocho Rios cruise port. Surrounded by lush tropical forest, with a beautiful sandy beach, Dunn’s River Falls are the most popular tourist attraction featuring terraced waterfall that visitors can climb on foot. The resort consists of a cafeteria, changing rooms, restrooms, and numerous shops where you can buy clothes and souvenirs. However, if you decide not to climb the waterfall, there is a path that stretches along the falls so you can take great shots of your loved ones.
Another popular tourist spot is the Dolphin’s Cove, located less than 1 km from the waterfall. This is the place where you can enjoy dolphin interactions, snorkeling with stingrays, a mini animal park, and shark feeding. They have a nice, cozy restaurant where you can delight in the local food and a gift shop that sells souvenirs.
One of the hidden gems is the Blue Hole also known as the Cool Blue Hole. This breathtaking series of natural limestone sinkhole is located near Ocho Rios. A deep cavern hidden within the tropical mountains of Jamaica, the Blue Hole gets its name from the deep blue azure hue of the water. This place is famous among visitors for swimming, cliff diving, and walking through the lush rain forest to the Secret Falls.
Mystic Mountain, featuring zip lining, sky lift, ATVs, bobsledding, waterslides, pools, and much more, is an adventure park ideal for adrenaline-seekers, located at 2.5 km from the cruise port. Ocho Rios is a beautiful and diverse place that guarantees a fun-filled and memorable stay for everyone.
For more information on Ocho Rios, check out the article: Top 5 Vacation Spots In Jamaica