From the Arctic to Antarctica

Investigate the scenic coastline of Jamaica during an exhilarating Zodiac ride. Board your Viking Zodiac and set off from your Expedition ship with a small group of fellow travelers onto the waters around Port Antonio. Your Viking specialists will choose the best route along the coast based on the weather and water conditions. Cruise past Navy Island and around the headland into East Bay, with a goal of rounding Folly Point to gain views of Folly Mansion. This historic structure was built in 1905 and slowly left to crumble since 1914. Your Expedition team will answer any questions you may have along the way, as well as share stories and insights. At the end of your excursion, your Zodiac will return to your ship.

Take to the water and explore your surroundings with a member of your Viking Expedition Team. After a thorough introduction and safety briefing, transfer from your ship to the kayak staging area, where you will receive your paddle and join a fellow traveler in a two-person kayak. Your kayak has been designed to provide a combination of stability and comfort as you paddle your way through the open water. Dressed in a kayak suit and bespoke life jacket for maximum maneuverability, you will be geared up to remain warm and dry during your expedition experience. Paddle out of West Harbor to Navy Island; once a private 64-acre resort owned by Hollywood actor Errol Flynn, it is now uninhabited. Immerse yourself in nature as you journey along its coast, keeping watch for local wildlife.

Experience the beauty of Jamaica’s coast from the water during a ride in a Special Operations Boat. Board your vessel from the ship’s shell door landing, with assistance by a member of Viking’s Expedition Team. Once securely on board, lines will be untethered and your thrilling journey will begin. As you motor across the water, enjoy the stunning coastline and the dramatic and diverse architecture that adorns the headlands and bays. If weather permits, the goal will be to reach Turtle Harbour. Your highly maneuverable vessel will allow you to reach less accessible locations along the water’s edge. Knowledgeable specialists will be on hand to explain the natural world that surrounds you and to alert you of wildlife sightings. At the end of your excursion, your Special Operations Boat will return you and your fellow travelers to your ship.

Take a panoramic drive to see Port Antonio’s important landmarks and enjoy time to relax at the famous Blue Lagoon. Set out for a scenic drive by motor coach with your knowledgeable guide, who will regale you with stories about the town’s history and culture. Admire views of the open seas, towering mountains and verdant flora along the way, and enjoy photo stops in colonial-era Titchfield and at the 19th-century lighthouse at Folly Point. You will also get a glimpse of Trident Castle and visit the 186-year-old Parish Church. Afterward, travel to the tranquil Blue Lagoon, the film set for the movie by the same name. Enjoy free time to explore on your own, appreciating the natural beauty of this serene oasis. Then, continue to a local craft market, where you will have an opportunity to browse the vendors’ wares before returning to your ship.

Spend the day at Reach Falls, enjoying free time exploring its beautiful natural setting on your own. Travel with your guide deep into the montane forest within the John Crow Mountains, learning about the region’s rich history—this area was discovered by escaped slaves seeking refuge from the plantations of neighboring St. Thomas Parish. Upon arrival at these hidden falls, you will have an opportunity for independent exploration. Admire the rushing cascades of water crashing down the rock face and surrounded by lush rainforest foliage; you may choose to take a guided tour upstream, swim in the emerald-colored water or explore the legendary underwater tunnel. Keep watch for local wildlife, including black- and yellow-billed parrots. Afterward, travel to a local restaurant for a meal of Jamaican jerk cuisine, then return to your ship.

Immerse yourself in the sounds of nature as you float down the Rio Grande on a bamboo raft. Board a motor coach for a scenic drive along Jamaica’s rugged and picturesque north coast. Travel through verdant countryside to the starting point of your excursion along the “Great River.” Upon arrival, follow your expert guide to the river’s edge, where you will climb on board a 30-foot-long bamboo raft built for two. Learn about local life and discover the history of the land and your vessel, once used for transporting sugar to the sea. Cruise gently down the river under a canopy of looming trees, listening to the melodic birdsong amid bamboo and fern groves, and glimpsing life along the banks while enjoying various local snacks. At the end of your sojourn, disembark your raft at Rafters Rest, then board your coach and return to your ship.

Explore the Great Huts Resort, where nature, spirituality and Jamaica’s cultural heritage converge. The resort is a transformative escape, blending eco-luxury with cultural immersion. Set on a cliffside 100 feet above the blue waters of Boston Bay, it is a homage to West African heritage, fostering sustainable tourism, artistic expression and community engagement while celebrating diversity. Upon arrival, set out on a rugged walking trail with your guide. Meander along dramatic cliffs and lush foliage, unveiling breathtaking vistas of the Caribbean Sea. Wind your way past hidden caves and serene beaches while enjoying vibrant flora, echoing waves and the stories entwined with this rugged beauty. Following your hike, return to the resort and take a seat to enjoy a delicious lunch of Jamaican fare. Afterward, you will return to your ship.