An In-Port Guide to Royal Caribbean’s Western Caribbean Cruise

Cozumel

While in Cozumel, enjoy a fun water obstacle course at Paradise Beach. It is at an added cost, but it’s well worth it! The course ranges from easy to more complex climbing and high slides. You can also relax at an inflatable table while you recover for the next thrill ride of motorized water sports! All this with inclusive drinks and food, with great customer service—you have to try their fish tacos and piña coladas!

Just make sure to leave before closing time, as taxis stop coming after closing. Luckily, staff called a taxi for us since we were stuck behind, unaware of the transportation.

Roatán

While in Roatán, check out Daniel Johnson’s sloth and monkey wildlife encounters! They offer roundtrip transportation from the port and know the schedules of the cruises, so they make sure to have you at the port with enough time to spare.

Unfortunately for us, my daughter had a very bad rash and when I asked the driver where I could get some cream, he stopped at a pharmacy and bought it for us and did not ask for any compensation. Of course, we gave a really good tip as Roatán relies heavily on tourism and we appreciated his kindness. We also had an added guest that did not have time to make the reservation, but they took him and added him to the excursion with no issues!

While walking back to the ship, make sure to do some of the taste tests at the kiosks! The staff are very nice and will also take pictures and record any videos for you if you’d like! I recommend trying the spiked coffee (life-changing, I swear).

Costa Maya

On Costa Maya, we had the pleasure of experiencing massages on the beach for $35, which is usually what you can expect to pay.

I also recommend knowing a few phrases in Spanish regarding bartering, as I was being charged $20 for a hat, but when I spoke Spanish it dropped to $8!

Cozumel

Cozumel’s Thirsty Cougar is a lively waterfront bar offering large and tasty margaritas the size of Texas! This is always a must for us when in town as the servers are always so friendly and accommodating.

K’ooben Laab is the spot for Italian food. To make things even better, their pasta is paired with bread made in house.

Costa Maya

The Krazy Lobster in Costa Maya is a must-visit with their amazing ceviche options and lounge chairs to relax by the beach and take a good o’ cat nap.

If it is already packed, I suggest you head to Big Mama, a beach restaurant offering delicious seafood options in a relaxed atmosphere.

Across the street, you will see a market filled with artisanal souvenirs. I actually got a beach dress for $15, and it has lasted me through several beach trips now!

Roatán

Roatán’s Brady’s Cay offers stunning views with personalized service and delicious authentic Honduran food such as their crab soup or “sopa de jaibas.”

I do strongly suggest booking ahead of time for any beach clubs as they tend to charge more day-of.

Overall, shopping and eating in town is way cheaper and more convenient!