Top 6 Thrilling Caribbean Experiences

Currently, we are enjoying our first Caribbean cruise, indulging in everything our ship has to offer. We could be relaxing in the spa or unwinding at the Serenity Adult-Only Retreat. Perhaps we’re embracing our playful side on the 320-foot-long Twister Waterslide! Most likely, we’re participating in some exciting water adventures we have planned for our shore excursions. Although we've visited the Caribbean several times, this is our first cruise experience in the area. In the past, we've been limited to a single island, but now we have the chance to explore multiple destinations all in one trip. We believe that's one of the biggest advantages of cruising: discovering several islands within a week. Over the course of our 8-day journey, we will be sailing from Miami to the Southern Caribbean, stopping at Grand Turk, Curacao, Aruba, and La Romana in the Dominican Republic aboard the Dinogo Breeze. How exciting!

Witnessing the talented Cliff Divers at Rick's Café

Since Dinogo provides numerous options for shore excursions, we wanted to share our favorite Caribbean adventures that we have experienced. On this cruise, we're focusing on water activities, but before we detail our experiences upon returning home, we want to highlight some of the best inland adventures we’ve enjoyed. Whether it’s a canopy tour through the rainforests, a hike to a volcano, or a safari to observe the native flora and fauna, exploring inland is essential! Here are our top suggestions for your next Caribbean getaway.

Please note: While these activities may not be included as cruise excursions, be sure to explore the activity options available by destination to discover what you can enjoy!

Ultimate Caribbean Adventures

1. Experience Bobsledding in Jamaica

Jamaica is the only place in the Caribbean where you can try bobsledding, and this is thanks to its renowned Winter Olympic bobsledding team! In the 1980s, a group of Jamaican athletes broke barriers by participating in the bobsleigh event at the 1988 Calgary Winter Olympics. Their inspiring journey was brought to life in the film Cool Runnings, featuring John Candy. The Jamaican team has maintained their Olympic tradition and even triumphed at the 2000 World Push Championships in Monaco. To honor these remarkable athletes, Jamaica has established a museum and adventure center in Ocho Rios. Here, you can take control of your own bobsleigh as you glide through the jungle, and there are also zip-lining experiences, a swimming pool, and exhibitions celebrating the achievements of both summer and winter Olympians from Jamaica.

Explore Two Cool Canucks and a Jamaican Bobsled

2. Exciting ATV Off-Road Adventures

3. Canyoning in Dominica

For those seeking a one-of-a-kind experience, Dominica (distinct from the Dominican Republic) offers the thrilling activity of canyoning. This adventurous sport allows you to slide and maneuver through rocky terrain and caves, rappel down stunning waterfalls, leap into pristine pools, and let the river’s current carry you away as you float downstream. Rest assured, it’s safe; you'll be equipped with wetsuits, life jackets, helmets, and all necessary safety gear. Just follow your guide and enjoy the adventure!

4. Exciting Zip Lining Experience

Zip lining is available in various Caribbean locations and provides a fantastic way to immerse yourself in nature while experiencing an adrenaline rush. Zip lines are typically part of canopy tours, where you traverse from platform to platform, discovering local flora and fauna while hiking through the jungle and soaring above the lush treetops. If you're new to adventure travel, this is an excellent choice! One zip line we tried in St. Kitts was among the fastest and most exhilarating we’ve ever experienced, reaching speeds of 80 km/h. It’s not just an adventure; it’s also a cultural and historical journey, as it’s situated in Old Road Village, the first English settlement in the West Indies.

5. Exploring the Cenotes of Mexico

While Mexico offers many of the excursions we've discussed, one of its unique attractions is the stunning Cenotes. Found in the Yucatan Peninsula, these ancient underground caves are filled with tranquil pools and gentle rivers. Visitors can explore these wonders in various ways, including snorkeling and swimming through the caverns, wading in the shallows, or scuba diving in the more remote systems accessible only with oxygen tanks. There are also Cenote adventure tours available, where you can rappel and zip line into deep, dark underground openings, kayak through narrow channels, and even try cliff jumping.

The Rio Secreto adventure tour is a three-hour experience located near Cancun, providing an opportunity to explore this incredible attraction in a short timeframe!

6. Horseback Riding Adventures

During our honeymoon in the Dominican Republic, Dave and I enjoyed horseback riding on the beach. Since then, we've improved our riding skills and have had the chance to ride horses across various parts of the world. We can confidently say that nothing compares to the romance of riding horses on a Caribbean beach! The breathtaking view of pristine white sands stretching into the sapphire blue ocean is unforgettable. Even if you're not an experienced rider, being on the beach can give you the confidence to try a cantor or even a gallop.

One horseback riding experience that particularly excites us is in Montego Bay, Jamaica, where you can enjoy a horseback ride and swim! That’s an adventure we’ve always dreamed of trying.

These are the top adventures we've experienced in the Caribbean, and we're eager to add more to our list this week on our cruise! Be sure to follow our social media channels where we’ll share our Caribbean journey using the hashtag #DinogoPartner.

This post was created for Away We Go with Dinogo, your destination for getting into the vacation mindset.