Jamaica Stay and Caribbean Cruise

Your Cruise Holiday Summary

A magical fortnight during which you will experience the delights of Jamaica and a 7 night full board Caribbean cruise on the Norwegian Pearl.

First, you will fly out to Jamaica's North Coast for a 7 nights stay in Ocho Rios, one of the island's fastest growing resort centres.

You'll be staying at the all-inclusive 3 star Sunset Jamaica Grande Resort and Spa or, if wish to upgrade, at the relaxed, sophisticated, 4 star Couples Tower Isle Resort.

During the second week of your holiday, Norwegian Pearl offers an impressive itinerary - taking in some of the most memorable ports of call in the Caribbean, including the stunning Isla Cozumel, Mexico's largest Island, and the thrilling international Mecca of Miami, the cruise capital of the world.

Pricing Guide

All our prices include:

• Flights
• Hotel
• Cruise
• Transfers

*Pricing is per person Cabin Details

Date	Hotel Name	Hotel Rating	Inside	Outside	Balcony	More
March 8th, 2012	Sunset Jamaica Grande	3+	£1,099	SOLD OUT	£1,199	View Offer »
March 8th, 2012	Couples Tower Isle	4+	£1,669	SOLD OUT	£1,769	View Offer »
March 15th, 2012	Sunset Jamaica Grande	3+	£1,299	SOLD OUT	£1,299	View Offer »
March 15th, 2012	Couples Tower Isle	4+	£1,869	SOLD OUT	£1,869	View Offer »
March 22nd, 2012	Sunset Jamaica Grande	3+	£1,139	£1,199	£1,299	View Offer »
March 22nd, 2012	Couples Tower Isle	4+	£1,629	£1,689	£1,789	View Offer »
March 29th, 2012	Sunset Jamaica Grande	3+	£1,629	SOLD OUT	£1,629	View Offer »
March 29th, 2012	Couples Tower Isle	4+	£2,119	SOLD OUT	£2,119	View Offer »

Norwegian Pearl, Cruise Ship, Full Board

Book your voyage on Norwegian Pearl and discover one of the true treasures of the NCL Freestyle Cruising fleet. Just like her sister ships, she has a range of flexible, family- friendly accommodation, including highly exclusive Garden and Courtyard Villas.

Have fun exploring her 10 individual restaurants and 13 bars and lounges as well as sampling the excellent and innovative facilities onboard - among which are a mood-lit bowling alley and hair-raising climbing wall.

Lifestyle onboard Norwegian Pearl

From the moment you step onboard Norwegian Pearl it's clear this cruise ship is built for fun! Inter-connecting staterooms make it easier for families or groups who wish to travel together, while enjoying home comforts like TV, refrigerator and 24 hour room service.

If you're out to enjoy a cruise holiday with a real wow factor, then book a Garden or Courtyard Villa. As well as offering tons more luxury living space, you'll have your own hot tub and terrace and exclusive access to a private courtyard with swimming pool and sun deck.

Norwegian Pearl also has plenty of public space where you can kick back and relax - including 13 bars and lounges with inspired décor that includes a 20s style speakeasy, French art deco champagne lounge and even a hot air balloon!

Daytime cruising on Norwegian Pearl

Norwegian Pearl has all the facilities you need to enjoy your cruise holiday your own way. Grab a drink and catch a few rays by the pool, eat loads then work off those calories at the gym, curl up and read a good book or challenge fellow cruisers to a game of tennis. There's plenty more to do besides...

• 6 Hot Tubs
• South Pacific Spa & Beauty Salon
• Body Waves Fitness Centre
• Jogging/Walking Track
• Sports Court
• Shopping
• Card Room
• Library
• Kids' Pool
• Aqua Kids' Club
• Teens Metro Centre
• Video Arcade
• Climbing wall
• 4-Lane bowling alley

Your evening cruise entertainment

It isn't only the stars that sparkle on Norwegian Pearl. There's a whole host of fabulous entertainment to light up your evenings. It's showtime in the Stardust Theatre, music and dancing in the Spinnaker Lounge and the roulette wheel's spinning in the Pearl Club Casino.

You could just hook up with friends in your favourite bar and toast your cruise holiday with a martini or champagne, chew the fat over cognac and cigars or sink a few beers while you plan your next day onshore.

Dining on Norwegian Pearl

Your cruise ship has a truly international flavour with an amazing 13 different restaurants to choose from. Whatever you fancy, it's on the menu - including tapas, Thai, teppanyaki, sushi, Chinese, Italian, French cuisine…and more.

If you love fine dining but you're trying to watch the calories, the chef's specials in the Indigo Main Dining Room always feature light and healthy options. But if you're willing to go the whole hog with a fabulous five-course dining experience, head for the Summer Palace where award-winning menus are served in magnificent surroundings.

About Jamaica

To say that a Jamaican holiday is memorable is, to put it mildly, a serious understatement. Jamaica is the third largest island in the Caribbean - and a tropical paradise where time dances to the sound of the sea, wind rushing through exotic foliage, and the reggae beat.

There's an enormous range of things to do in Jamaica, something for people of all ages. Try a toboggan ride through the forest at mystic mountain, a climb up the world famous Dunn's river falls, or you may prefer to chill out on the white sandy beaches of one of the most fascinating and beautiful islands in the world.

Jamaica is a Caribbean haven where rolling hills contrast with steep gullies and the island's world famous towering Blue Mountains.

Words cannot describe the beauty of this island, so you may want to take a lot of photos and videos!

Culture of Jamaica

You can’t talk about Jamaica without thinking about the vibrant culture and heritage like the music and iconic images that have come out of the island.

The island’s strong musical culture is everywhere too – Bob Marley's legend and music really does live on here, and if you’re a fan, be sure to visit Nine Mile - his birthplace in Jamaica.

Film buffs will recognize the area from the first James Bond movie Dr. No; Bond author Ian Fleming fell in love with Jamaica while visiting the island for a naval conference and spent many winters there at his estate, Goldeneye, in Oracabessa.

Shopping

The Cruise terminal at Ocho Rios is within walking distance of the markets and malls of the town and are easily accessible both before and after the cruise, be sure to pick up some of the locally crafted items from the markets which specialize in unique terracotta items hand-made at Wassi Art Pottery Works, and of course the duty free shops which are located in the next to the markets.

One of the most popular 'must-buys' is Jamaica's world famous Blue Mountain coffee. It goes down nicely with fine Jamaican rum, especially the sweet Rumona liqueur - the world's only rum-based liqueur, hard to find outside the island. Non-rum drinkers may prefer to sip Tia Maria Blue Mountain coffee.

Jamaica Holidays 2012 Key Events

• January - Jazz Festival.
• February - Bob Marley Celebration.
• March - Spring Break.
• June - Jerk Festival.
• July or August - Reggae Sumfest.
• August - Independence/Emancipation (cultural experience).

Eating Out

Yam, dumplings, green bananas and Irish potatoes - and that's just to accompany a Jamaican breakfast.

Jamaica is the home of Jerk flavoring, Scotch bonnet peppers plus other herbs and spices - which was created in Jamaica and is a must-try with meat (especially goat curry) or fish. Another culinary option is I-tal (Rastafarian vegetarian dishes) be sure to try to make a visit to Scotchie's in Ocho Rios who are claimed to have the best Jerk chicken or if it’s Italian cuisine & seafood you like make time to go to Toscanini Restaurant where the only thing to surpass the taste of the food is the service.

Fusion dishes abound, brought together from the abundant supply of local exotic vegetables, tropical fruits, and sea food.

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Top Attractions and Activities

Dunn's River Falls

Dunn's River Falls are one of Jamaica's national treasures and one of the most beautiful spots on the island.

Terraced, like giant stair steps, the falls offer 600 feet of climbing pleasure for thousands of visitors and locals every year, and are arguably Jamaica's most popular and famous attraction. Prepare to be breath-taken – by both the view and the climb!

Excursions to the Dunn's River Falls are pre-bookable at the resort where you will be staying.

Dolphin Cove

Dolphin Cove is a natural cove surrounded by 5 acres of lush tropical terrain. It's a great place to spend the day, for visitors have the chance to interact and swim with Dolphins and Caribbean sharks. You can also learn to become a dolphin trainer by playing 'sea keeper' for the day. Due to Dolphin Cove's overwhelming popularity, advanced booking is highly recommended.

Mystic Mountain

The Rainforest Adventures Park at Mystic Mountain is Jamaica's latest water park attraction and has quickly become the heart and soul of the island's rainforest activities. Here you will find yourself zip-lining, taking a state-of-the-art chairlift known as the sky explorer, or marvelling at the park's signature attraction, Rainforest Bob-sled Jamaica, which features a 1,000 metres-long, gravity-drive on custom-designed high-tech bob-sleds through a 100 acres rainforest.

Championship Golfing

The toughest decision facing golfing enthusiasts is which of Jamaica's 12 Championship Quality Golf Courses they should tee off on first. If you book into the Couples Tower Isle Resort, unlimited golf, green fees and transfers are included in the cost of your stay.

Shaw Park Botantical Gardens

Experience the natural beauty of the Shaw Park Botanical Gardens and Waterfalls, a Jamaican paradise spanning 25 acres on a hilltop overlooking the azure waters of the Caribbean.

A key attraction is the sparkling waterfall that cascades down a rocky course surrounded on all sides by a host of colourful exotic plants, while lush tropical flowers form bowers filled with flamboyant blossoms - every month of the year.

James Bond

007 fans will want to visit 'Goldeneye', the luxurious former estate of James Bond author, Ian Fleming. Just a few miles east of Ocho Rios, Goldeneye has been converted into a high-end 18 acre retreat with lush tropical gardens, overlooking the sea.

Jazz and Blues Festival

In January, Jamaica's annual Jazz and Blues Festival attracts some of the most legendary musicians in the world, as well as Jamaica's home-grown favourites.

The Festival has a special aura to it, a combination of musicians, people, location and the infectious vibes of Jamaica which creates an almost surreal experience for anyone who attends. This is one musical event you will not want to miss.

Nine Mile Mausoleum

The Bob Marley Mausoleum is located in Nine Mile and is managed by members of Marley’s family. This popular tourist attraction has many historical artifacts including guitars, awards and photographs. Nine Mile is where Bob Marley’s journey began and so powerfully influenced many of his songs.

Ocho Rios

Your stay in Jamaica will be in the lively coastal town, Ocho Rios, where cruise ships dock close to the down town area of this former fishing village. A few minutes' walk will take you straight to the town's craft markets, restaurants, bars, and duty-free shops where shoppers sway to the sound of reggae music.

 

Hotel Options

This incredible Stay & Cruise package exclusive to Virgin Holidays Cruises customers offers the choice of two all-inclusive hotel resorts:

Sunset Jamaica Grande

Location

An all inclusive resort, The Sunset Jamaica Grande Resort and Spa occupies a prime location on the longest beach in Ocho Rios. Offering a variety of new amenities including, divine dining, spa, and stellar location you will be overwhelmed with choice! On the front of a beautiful white sandy beach the resort has five lavish pools that meander their way through the complex, featuring waterfalls, plunge pools, Jacuzzis, swaying rope bridge and swim up bars.

Food and Drink

Boasting a range of all inclusive choices including:

• Grande Palm buffet restaurant (international)(breakfast, lunch and dinner)
• Dining on South Beach (Caribbean and new American fusion)(dinner)
• Ginger Lily (Asian)(dinner)
• La Diva (Italian)(dinner)
• 2 Beach Grills
• 8 Bars
• 24 hour coffee station

Entertainment/Activities

• 5 swimming pools
• Children's splash and play pool
• 2 floodlit tennis courts
• Table tennis
• Club mongoose (2-7 years)
• Jamstone (8-12 years)
• Jamrock teen centre
• Gym
• Full service spa
• Beauty Salon
• Water Sports
• Slot Machine Casino
• Jamaica 'N me crazy nightclub
• Live entertainment
• Beach Parties

Rooms

Recently Refurbished resort rooms all have Balconies that overlook the resort and or Ocho Rios town, air conditioning, TV, safety deposit boxes, kettle, iron and board, and hairdryer. All rooms have 1 King sized bed or 2 double beds, sleeping a maximum 3 adults or 2 adults and 2 children.

Available Room Upgrades

Ocean View Rooms - Recently refurbished enjoy mountain and partial sea views

Oceanfront Rooms - Recently refurbished face the ocean and benefit from spectacular sea views

Beachfront Rooms - Located in the cabana wing along the beachfront

1 Bedroom Suites - Located on the corner of South point tower have a master bedroom, separate sitting room, 2 balconies and fantastic beachfront views

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Couples Tower Resort

Location

An all inclusive resort, The Couples Resort is a glamorous Hotel that exudes chic sophistication perfectly balanced by a relaxed Caribbean sensuality. Perched on the lush terrain of Ocho Rios, Jamaica, the resort is spread across 19 acres and seduces with breath taking sea views, white sandy beaches and century old palm trees. Whether you decide to spend your time soaking up the sun around one of the three fresh water swimming pools and Jacuzzi's or venture off into Ocho Rios, you can guarantee a one of a kind relaxed Caribbean holiday.

Food and Drink

Choose from a host of delightful dining options at the Couples Tower Isle including

• Patio Restaurant(continental breakfast, Italian and Mediterranean buffet)
• 8 Rivers (Classic cuisine with local Jamaican Ingredients)
• Bayside (Asian)
• Verandah Restaurant (Continental cuisine)
• Pool Grill (Grilled Specialities)
• 5 Bars
• Veggie Bar (Healthy Vegetarian alternatives)

Entertainment/Activities

The hotel itself boasts a huge list of activities and entertainment including:

• Four Bars all serving premium brand liquors, wines and champagnes
• Water sports and scuba-diving
• World-class golf excursions
• Air conditioned state of the art fitness centre
• Glass bottom boat tours
• Spa and treatment rooms

Rooms

The rooms at the Couples Tower Isle are all fitted with plush king-sized beds, air conditioning and open out onto private balconies furnished with wide cushioned seating and outdoor tables.

Ample sized bathrooms are completed with showers or a tub, Gilchrist & Soames bath products, salon-style hair dryer and cosy bathrobes. For your entertainment you will find and IPOD/MP3 player and a satellite cable flat-screen T.V.

Available Room Upgrades

Superior Ocean View Rooms - Face the Ocean and have partial Sea Views

Deluxe Ocean View Rooms - Have Beautiful Sea Views

Premier Ocean View Rooms - Have Beautiful Sea Views and views of Tower Isle

Garden View Junior Suite - Have lovely Garden views and feature seating area, Jacuzzi bathtubs, walk in shower, and mini bar

Ocean View Junior Suite - Have Beautiful Sea Views and feature seating area, Jacuzzi bathtubs, walk in shower, and mini bar

1 Bedroom Suite - Have a master bedroom and separate sitting room

Your Cruise Itinerary

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FAQ

What is the weather like in Jamaica?

A Jamaican poem sums up Jamaica weather perfectly:

"We have neither Summer nor Winter
Neither Autumn nor Spring
We have instead the days
When the gold sun shines on the lush green canefields-
Magnificently"

This is Jamaica weather! days are warm and consistently full of sunshine, even during the rainy season.

Generally, the weather in Jamaica is characterized by a cool, caressing sea breeze by day and a gentle breeze from the mountains by night.

This so-called rainy season is characterized by brief afternoon showers followed by sunshine. Look at it as a welcome break from the tropical heat!

When is Jamaica’s rainy season?

Jamaica has 2 rainy seasons which are between May to June and September to October but they are hardly like the rain in the UK and the rain can be discibed like having a warm shower and a pleasant relief from the afternoon sun.

What should I pack for Jamaica?

Jamaica has a tropical climate with hot and humid weather at sea level so pack light clothing for everyday use. The higher inland regions have a more temperate climate which might require a sweater. (Bring a light jacket just in case you travel to the mountains where temperatures can be as much as 10 degrees cooler or in case you go on a windy boat ride).

During the winter months (November through to March) bring a couple of light sweaters for the evenings as the evening temperature can come down by 10 or 15 degrees below what it is in the daytime.

What is the time difference in Jamaica?

Jamaica is 5 hours behind the UK

What currency do the use in Jamaica and the Caribbean?

The dollar has been the currency of Jamaica since 1969. It is often abbreviated "J$", the J serving to distinguish it from other dollar-denominated currencies.

Although most of the Caribbean islands have their own individual currency the US$ is also accepted throughout the islands making it easy for you to keep track of what you are spending.

What is the Standard electrical voltage in Jamaica?

The standard is 110V. Some hotels can provide 220 volts

Can I access the Internet in Jamaica?

Yes there is internet access at both the Sunset Jamaica Grande and the Couples tower Isle.

How large is Jamaica?

Jamaica is the third largest Caribbean island. It is 146 miles long from east to west and 51 miles at its widest point, from north to south.

How do I get around in Jamaica whilst I am there?

We will provide you with all your transfers to and from the Airport and cruise port, the transfer from Kingston to the Ocho Rios area is approximately 2 hours but be prepared for it to be longer as in some instances road works can often mean deviations from the quickest route.

The port of Ocho Rios is just outside of the town and is actually within walking distance from the shops and malls of Ocho Rios but there are no buses from the port so if you plan on travelling further you will need to use a taxi.

The Jamaica Union of Travelers Association (JUTA) is the largest operator of scheduled and unscheduled bus/minibus and vehicle charter services aimed at tourists, if you are planning on exploring the island we would only recommend using a JUTA regulated vehicle.

Taxi Rates are per car - not per passenger, with taxis hailed on the street or booked by phone. It's worth agreeing a price for the trip ahead of departure. Fares should be displayed inside the taxi - add 25% if it's after midnight.

We would suggest tipping between 10 to 12%. Most hotels and resorts have assigned Jamaican Tourist Board drivers who carry photo ID and display a prominent blue JTB sticker on the front windscreen.

Are there reps in the hotel?

Virgin reps are the happiest bunch of people you will meet and For your comfort we have dedicated reps in resort to assist you with any questions and queries that you may have, Just ask at the front desk what time they will visit the hotel.

They will also be able to help you book the excursions and day trips which are provided by dedicated tour operators that are completely vetted and available to book in resort at any time!

The couple’s tower also offers a list of FREE excursions make sure you check out the excursions list on the hotel page!!

What is the drinking age in Jamaica?

The age of consent (16), however drinking and getting drunk is frowned upon in Jamaica and you will rarely find young people under the age of 25 drinking.

What is the nightlife like in Jamaica?

A country with a cultural heritage as diverse and proud as Jamaica is bound to offer the best in local nightlife and after-dark entertainment. From Hedonism in Negril, to the Center stage Theatre in Kingston, Jamaica offers visitors enough fun for several nights.

What is Ocho Rios nightlife like?

Ocho Rios is a place where visitors can relax by the water during the day and enjoy some hours out on the town at night. Most of the hotels and resorts in the Ocho Rios area offer some form of evening entertainment, ranging from fire eaters to Elvis impersonators, with the most popular performances being reggae music performers, primarily by local bands.

For visitors who want things to get a little more hopping at night, the best bet is Amnesia, a traditional Jamaican nightclub located at 70 Main Street in Ocho Rios. This club has everything from foam parties to live reggae music.

Is Jamaica Safe?

We cannot stress enough the safety of the resorts and guided excursions, you will never be compromised in a vulnerable situation and under the watchful eye of the experienced tour guides you will never find yourself worrying about being a potential victim of crime.

What legal documents are needed for entry into Jamaica?

Visitors from Britain need passports but not visas. All visitors are required to have in their possession a return or ongoing ticket. Proof of Citizenship Immigration and a ticket for onward destination is required for a visit not exceeding six months.

Visiting tourists may remain for a period not exceeding six months.

Do remember that you are also going to be doing a cruise which has a stop in Miami which will require you to have an ESTA in place as well. Please make sure this is secured prior to departing the UK.

Click here to complete the online Visa Waiver program