socalgal2

We always book private excursions and have always been back aboard the ship on time. We find that private guides are very aware of the ship’s schedule and if for some reason we are running late (which is rare) will discuss options with us. Since the group is quite small - usually 6-8 people - the excursions move along more quickly and we see more. There is no herding of a busload of people and waiting for latecomers to return to the bus. We have done private tours throughout Europe, South America, and the Caribbean. There have been times that we have also rented a car and explored on our own.

For us, private excursions work great! We research a bit online (TripAdvisor, Shore Excursion Group, Viator, etc) and read reviews before booking. As someone else mentioned the Roll Call on Cruise Critic is a good way to connect with like minded others.

Have a fantastic trip!

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After reading the responses, I don't think they are generally a put down. Everyone has different likes and expectations. It's a good thing that people responded with their personal experiences on Bonaire so that readers can consider them all. We spent a week in Bonaire a couple of years ago and loved it. The snorkeling and diving were great. The salt flats and flamingos were fun to see. It is a small island and is easily navigated by rental car. We loved the fact that it is not overrun with condos and retains its island charm. To each his own!

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Chuck and Robbie's Dive Shop on Ambergris Caye. We have been diving and snorkeling Nguyen with them several times and they are great! You can check them out in Trip Advisor. Be sure to check out Hol Chan too. They have snorkel trips that go to both. Have fun!

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We spent a week in Bonaire a few years ago. Other than snorkeling and diving, there is not a lot to do. The main town is quite small. I would suggest renting a car and driving around the island. We enjoyed the donkey sanctuary ( you drive through it) and the salt flats. Have fun!

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We spent several days in Melbourne last February. We took two tours - both with a company called A Tour With A Difference. The first was a one day tour to the Great Ocean Road. It was a very long day but we were able to see everything we wanted to. The van was very comfortable and we had an excellent guide. We had considered renting a car and doing it ourselves over 3-4 days. We were glad we opted to take the tour. The guide knew exactly where to go and where to park

We also used the company to see the Penguin Parade. We were the only two booked on that tour and they took us anyway. The owner, Grace, was our guide that day and we had a great day. Since we were the only ones on the tour, Grace was willing to make extra stops - including a look at some model homes. We have traveled extensively and these were two of the best tours we have taken. It is a great company and I highly recommend them.

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