Dominica

Travelling through the Canefield Estate you’ll make your way to Springfield Road, passing fern-covered hillsides.

The highlight of your tour will be the visit to the Emerald Pool, a grotto filled by a waterfall and surrounded by breathtakingly beautiful plants, flowers and ferns. Located in the Morne Trois Piton National Park, the green-coloured pool invites you to stand behind the 40 foot waterfall or cool off with a dip.

Relax and enjoy the setting of a local guest house, whilst enjoying a refreshing fruit punch. The West Coast Road provides your return route taking you through small Dominican villages.

Essential information

This excursion will operate by minibus and on foot. The roads on this tour can be narrow, steep and winding. There will be around 40 minutes of walking over uneven and inclined surfaces including steps. Pathways can be slippery when wet. Comfortable, non-slip shoes are recommended. Passengers are reminded to take sunscreen, and to wear swimwear and take a towel if wishing to take a dip at the falls.

Whizz up to Morne Bruce for panoramic views over Roseau and the Caribbean Sea. Feel the force of nature as you wind through the mountains to Wotten Waven Sulphur Springs to see some of the island’s volcanic activity.

Take an exciting ride into the island’s rainforest, to the spectacular Ti Tou Gorge, used in the filming of ‘Pirates of the Caribbean 2’. Ti Tou Gorge flows from the Fresh Water Lake, one of the few mountain crater lakes in the Caribbean. The scenery here is spectacular as you are surrounded by lush rainforest.

At Ti Tou, you’ll discover a crevice in the mountain where natural hot and cold streams intermingle and plunge into a pool below. Make the most of this natural spring by taking a refreshing dip in the mineral rich water.

A complimentary drink will be served before returning to the ship.

Essential information

This excursion will operate by 4x4 truck and on foot. This tour is not suitable for those with injuries or conditions, which may be affected by the bumpy ride. Pregnant women and children under 12 may not participate. There will be around 30 minutes of walking over uneven and inclined surfaces including steps. Pathways can be slippery when wet. Passengers are advised to take water shoes and bring along rain gear. Passengers are reminded to wear swimwear and take a towel if wishing to take a dip.

Allow your Carib Indian guide to show you Dominica and gain an insight into the Carib Indian Culture…..

Heading into the capital of Roseau you’ll visit the Botanical Gardens, home to a variety of exotic flowers and tropical plants. Enjoy a stroll through the gardens before continuing to Morn Bruce, a viewpoint that offers a bird’s eye view overlooking the capital.

Your journey will continue onto the Hibiscus Falls, tucked away in the lush rainforest. Here, you can take a stroll to the viewpoint or take the steps that lead down to the waterfall pool and enjoy a refreshing dip. Afterwards, it’s time to head to the Carib Indian Eco-village to enjoy a delicious local-style, organic buffet lunch. Whilst you dine, you’ll be entertained with typical Carib Indian dancing.

Your return drive will take you through the Carib Indian Territory. Enjoy a short photo stop en route to admire the scenery and to browse the handful of local craft stalls. As you return to Roseau, a short photo stop will be made to view the Castle Bruce black volcanic sand beach.

Essential information

This excursion will operate by minibus and on foot. Children under 8 may not participate. Flat, non-slip shoes are advised. Please take sunscreen and insect repellant, wear swimwear and take a towel if wishing to take a dip in the waterfall. There are around 60 steps (optional) at the waterfall. The organic lunch is vegetarian. US Dollars are accepted for purchases.

Your destination is Mero Beach, located just a short drive from the port. Here, you’ll have around 2 hours at the beach where you can sit back and relax on a sunbed, take a stroll along the black volcanic sand or cool off with a refreshing swim in the Caribbean waters.

At the end of your visit, you’ll meet at the designated time and meeting point for the return transfer.

Essential information

This excursion will operate by minibus. This tour is inclusive of transfers, sunbed and a drink. The sand at Mero Beach is black volcanic sand. Passengers are reminded to wear swimwear, take a towel and sunscreen. Please refrain from drinking alcoholic beverages prior to any swimming activities. US Dollar currency is required for purchases. There may be independent suppliers on the beach that offer watersports. These are provided by parties unconnected to P&O Cruises. Please be sure to take note of your pick-up time as the bus cannot be held for latecomers.

You’ll board your RIB power boat at the pier and set off on a wave running ride to Champagne Bay. Here you can take the opportunity to snorkel the Champagne Reef and experience the feeling of swimming through the crystal like bubbles. Afterwards, you’ll speed across to Soufriere. Enjoy a stroll around this sleepy fishing village and experience the hot sulphur spring that comes up through the sand on the beach.

Feel the power once more as you fly across the water to Scottshead. Located on the southern peak, this small peninsular is a mix of stone and sand beach that separates the Caribbean sea from the Atlantic ocean. Here, you’ll be offered a cooling refreshment.

To round off your experience, you’ll zoom around the peninsular and take a thrilling ride out into the waves of the Atlantic Ocean, before returning to the pier.

Essential information

This excursion will operate by RIB and on foot. This tour is not suitable for those with back or neck injuries or conditions, which may be affected by the bumpy ride. Pregnant women and children under 12 may not participate. Snorkel equipment is included and those wishing to snorkel must be competent swimmers. This tour involves some walking over uneven, rocky and sandy terrain. There is a steep hill to reach the viewpoint at Scottshead. Flat, non-slip shoes are essential. Please wear swimwear, take a towel and sunscreen. The itinerary and snorkel site are subject to sea conditions and may change.

Heading out of Roseau, you’ll wend your way up to Morne Bruce. From a height of 300 feet, you’ll have wonderful views of the town. You’ll also see the island’s towering mountains and deep valleys, making this a truly scenic tour.

Trafalgar Falls is one of Dominca’s most spectacular attractions. After a 10 minute hike through ginger plants, vanilla orchards and tropical rainforest your first view of the majestic Falls, from a platform, is beautiful and breathtaking.

Within the National Park, the enchanting Emerald Pool lies in the heart of lush, green rainforest. Take a walk down to the pool, where you can stand behind the 40 foot waterfall and cool off with a dip if you wish. Alternatively, just enjoy the surroundings of the tropical rainforest.

You’ll make a brief stop at a local venue to sample some refreshing fruit juices. Relax and enjoy the atmosphere before taking the return drive to Roseau.

Essential information

This excursion will operate by minibus and on foot.Children under 6 may not participate. Due to the topography of Dominica, this tour involves around 2 hours of the total tour duration on the minibus. The roads on this tour can be narrow, steep and winding. There will be around 1 hour of walking over uneven and inclined surfaces including steps. Pathways can be slippery when wet. Comfortable non-slip shoes are recommended. Passengers are reminded to wear swimwear and take a towel if wishing to take a dip at the falls.

Setting off from the port, your journey will take you through Roseau and on to Morne Bruce viewpoint. Enjoy a brief stop, taking in panoramic views over the capital and the Caribbean coastline.

You’ll continue to the Botanical Gardens, which have been beautifully restored despite the destruction caused by Hurricane David in 1979. As you follow your guide through the gardens, look out for the many varieties of exotic flowers and tropical plants.

Afterwards, you’ll head inland, passing through the island’s tropical rainforest and plantations, en-route to Hibiscus falls. Capture a lovely sight of the falls from the viewpoint, or for those who prefer, take the optional walk down to the waterfall pool. During your visit, you’ll be offered some delicious local fruits and a fruit or rum punch refreshment.

Your return journey will take you through more of the island’s lush green scenery, before arriving back at the port.

Essential information

This excursion will operate by minibus. The roads on this tour can be narrow, steep and winding. The short walk at the Botanical Gardens is optional and is over relatively flat ground. There is a short flat walk to reach the waterfall viewpoint. Passengers who choose to take the optional walk down to the waterfall pool, must negotiate approximately 60 steps. Flat, comfortable non-slip shoes are recommended.

Enjoy a drive through the Old French Quarter of the capital of Roseau and onto the Botanical Gardens. The Gardens have been beautifully restored despite the destruction caused by Hurricane David in 1979.

Afterwards, a scenic drive will take you through Eggleston and Giraudel, 2 villages that are renowned for their annual flower shows. Here, you’ll visit the local flower gardens and learn the fascinating facts behind Dominica’s flower gardening. You’ll also have the opportunity to listen to some traditional folklore music by a Dominican Jing Ping band.

Your next stop is a charming Dominican guesthouse, where you’ll enjoy a tour of the natural and organic gardens and experience some Caribbean Creole cooking. A professional Caribbean chef will show you a fabulous cooking demonstration using fresh local ingredients. After your demonstration you’ll be given the opportunity to enjoy the prepared meal and some refreshing local juices.

On return to your ship a visit to the Green Mountain flower garden will round off your tour.

Essential information

This excursion will operate by minibus and on foot. This tour is not suitable for children. The roads on this tour can be narrow, steep and winding. This tour involves some walking over uneven and gravel terrain, which may be slippery when wet. There are also some inclines and steps to negotiate at each location. Comfortable, flat closed-toe walking shoes are recommended. US Dollar currency is required for local purchases.

You’ll drive from Roseau to Laudat Village, the eco-tourism centre of Dominica that boasts 6 natural sites, one of which is the Ti Tou Gorge, used in the blockbuster ‘Pirates of the Caribbean 2’. Enjoy a swim and discover the crystal clear waterfalls between the mountains or be massaged by the hot and cold water streams, fed into the cool refreshing waters of the Gorge.

Your experience continues with a drive to the ‘wellness’ village of Wotten Waven. En route, capture the stunning serene landscapes that characterise the island. On arrival, a short walk down a flight of natural steps will lead you to the open air pools where you’ll enjoy a hot mineral bath.

Complimentary fresh fruit will be served as you relax in the natural rustic surroundings before heading back to Roseau.

Essential information

This excursion will operate by minibus and on foot. Passengers must be in good physical condition. Those under the age of 14 and pregnant women may not participate. There is a weight limit of 17 stone on this tour. The roads on this tour can be narrow, steep and winding. This tour involves walking over uneven surfaces and steps. The terrain surrounding the gorge and pools is rocky and water shoes or flat, closed-toe non-slip shoes which can get wet are essential. Participants must be strong swimmers. Passengers are reminded to wear dark swimwear and take a towel. The mineral bath water may stain your swimwear.

Your journey will head up the west coast of the island to the town of Portsmouth, passing through the Canefield Estate and the coastal villages of Mahaut and Massacre en route.

Upon arrival, you’ll board a wooden rowboat and set off along the ‘Indian River’, formerly used by the Carib Indians in their trade with the Europeans. The riverbed is lined with Amazonian style trees and mangroves containing a variety of wildlife species. Your local rowing boat guide will bring the river alive, with interesting facts along the way.

A short stop will be made where you’ll have the opportunity to disembark and enjoy a stroll through the rainforest. You’ll also be offered a refreshing soft drink or rum punch before rejoining the rowboat to take you back along the river.

Relax and enjoy the lush green scenery, as you drive back to Roseau.

Essential information

This excursion will operate by minibus and wooden rowboat. The drive to the Indian River is around 1 hour. This tour involves limited walking, however passengers must be able to negotiate steps onto and off the minibus. There are also 4 slights of steps to reach the boats. A degree of agility is required when boarding. There is no shade from the sun on board the boats. The boat ride is approximately 1 hour in total. Please take a hat, sunscreen and insect repellent. Flat, non slip shoes are recommended and a light rain jacket. Each of the wooden row boats accommodates 6 passengers. Lifejackets must be worn.

Setting off from the port, you’ll take a scenic drive through the unspoiled Layou Valley to the launching site. Upon arrival, your tubing guides will be waiting to take you on a journey down the Layou River.

Sit back, relax and enjoy the ride, as you are transported down stream along this cool mountain river. Your ride will take you through the beautiful Layou Valley, bursting with unspoiled vegetation and tropical greenery. In places, you’ll pass through small rapids and take pleasure in the adventure of ‘whooshing’ past the rocks and riverbanks. You’ll stop off for a swim before floating off again through the natural freshwater pools.

After your river tubing experience, you’ll be offered a refreshing drink before heading back to Roseau.

Essential information

This excursion will operate by minibus, river tube and on foot. This tour is not suitable for those with back or neck injuries or conditions, which may be affected by the bumpy ride. Pregnant women and children under 8 may not participate. Participants must be competent swimmers. The drive to the river tubing starting point is around 30-40 minutes. Please wear swimwear under clothes, take a towel and sunscreen. There is a stony entrance to the river. Comfortable non-slip shoes that can get wet or water shoes are advisable. Personal belongings will be transferred to the pickup point.

A scenic drive will take you from the capital of Roseau, heading east towards the Laudat Mountain range. You’ll pass through the lush and verdant valley rising up to 3000 feet above sea level.

On arrival at the Middleham Trail, you’ll commence on an exciting hike that will take you through some of Dominica’s beautiful rugged scenery. You guide will point out some of the fascinating varieties of local flora, fauna and wildlife.

As you arrive at Middleham Falls, sometimes known as ‘The Jewel’, capture on camera the beauty of this 400-foot tumbling waterfall. You may wish to cool off and take a refreshing dip in the crystal clear waters or just take in the stunning view.

Your return hike will head back along the same route and at the end of your tour a refreshing local fruit bowl will be offered, before returning to Roseau.

Essential information

This excursion will operate by minibus and on foot. This is a challenging hike and is only suitable for those in good physical condition. Please take a bottle of water. Children may not participate. The roads on this tour can be narrow, steep and winding. Please wear footwear suitable for hiking over rough, uneven and wet ground. There are around 100 steps in total to negotiate. The hike will last around 2 hours. Please wear swimwear and take a towel, if wishing to take a dip, and sunscreen. There are some boulders and rocks to be negotiated in order to access the water pool, which may be slippery, water shoes are recommended.

After a safety briefing, you’ll set off for a fun-filled kayaking adventure down the Layou River. Experience the thrill as you navigate the flowing waters, plunging down light rapids in your 2-person sit-on kayak. Well-trained guides are on hand to lead you all through the natural twists, bends and boulders in the river. Pause in places to enjoy the spectacular scenery of the lush forests and rock face, which flank the river.

You’ll paddle your way to the entrance to Layou Village, which opens out to the warm Caribbean Sea. See the fishing boats pulled up after their early morning outings. Whilst at Layou, you’ll also have an opportunity to swim, before paddling back to your exit point. Here, you’ll be rewarded with a well-deserved complimentary drink and fresh fruit.

Essential information

This excursion will operate by minibus and kayak. Participants should be competent swimmers and physically fit. Children under 8 may not participate. Kayaking time will be approximately 45 minutes to 1 hour. Please take shoes that can get wet, a towel and non-oil sunscreen. You’ll be required to wear a life jacket.

Take a scenic drive, heading inland and on to the Eco Village launching site. The Eco Village, with its natural vegetation, is the perfect setting for river tubing. Upon arrival, your tubing guides will be waiting to take you on an adventure down the Pagua River.

Enjoy the ride as you’re transported downstream, along a combination of river flows. The slow flowing pools, offer a leisurely experience, with the opportunity to take in the scenery of the beautiful Concord Valley. In places, you’ll pass through small faster rapids and take pleasure in the fun of ‘whooshing’ past the rocks and riverbanks. After your river tubing adventure, cool off with a refreshing drink.

During your tour a photo stop will be made at the Hibiscus Falls. Enjoy the view and perhaps take the walk down to the waterfall pool.

Essential information

This excursion will operate by minibus, river tube and on foot. The drive to Pagua River is around 1¼ hours each way. Please wear swimwear under clothes, take a towel and sunscreen. Comfortable non-slip shoes that can get wet or water shoes are advisable. This tour is not suitable for those with back or neck injuries or conditions, which may be affected by the bumpy ride. Pregnant women and children under 8 may not participate. Participants must be competent swimmers. Personal belongings will be transferred to the pickup point. There are around 60 steps to reach the Hibiscus waterfall pool.

Step aboard an open-air trolley train and take a ride through Roseau, the small capital of Dominica. Throughout your trolley train ride your guide will point out landmarks along the way, as you pass through the capital’s bustling streets.

Your train ride will take you to the Botanical Gardens, where a short stop will be made for you to admire the tropical plants and large trees. You’ll also have the opportunity to see a Sisserou and a Jaco parrot in their protective cages, all part of a conservation program. Afterwards, you’ll continue to a panoramic viewpoint for a photo stop, taking in the lovely views across the capital and the Caribbean sea.

Your train ride will then pass by the ‘Old Market’ with its colonial history and the local vegetable market, before returning to the port, where you will be offered a rum punch at the waterfront bar.

Essential information

This excursion will operate by trolley train. We regret to advise that the trolley train is unable to accommodate wheelchairs. Passengers must be able to negotiate the step on to and off the trolley train. This tour involves limited walking at the stops described, however disembarkation is optional. Order of highlights may vary. The total duration of the train ride is around 60 minutes, however this may vary depending on local traffic conditions on the day. Flat, comfortable shoes are advised.

As your boat takes you south west along the coast, you’ll have a fine view of Roseau and the villages of Newtown, Loubiere and Point Michelle. The snorkel site sits on the edge of a submerged volcano and you can actually feel the hot water vent from the earth’s core. This unique area is a haven for a large number of tropical reef fish, such as Angelfish, Parrot Fish, corals and sponges, so is an ideal spot for snorkelling.

Your experienced guides will lead you along the best routes for you to experience nature’s fresh water spa. Swim through tiny crystal-like bubbles, which continuously struggle to the surface out of small volcanic fissures on the seabed.

As you cruise back to Roseau, there will be a chance to enjoy a rum punch or fruit juice on board.

A must for all snorkelling enthusiasts.

Essential information

This excursion will operate by boat. Snorkel equipment is included. Please remember your swimwear, sunscreen and a towel. Comfortable non-slip shoes or water shoes are recommended. All participants must be competent swimmers. Children under 8 may not participate. Please refrain from drinking alcoholic beverages prior to any swimming activities.

Enjoy the sights and scenery as you trek through the rainforest, admiring the island scenery en route to Twin Falls. Once at the falls you can photograph the frothy-white water column or take a refreshing dip in the cool pool. Although a relatively short walk, you’ll really feel as if you’re in the depths of the Dominican rainforest.

From the falls, you’ll take a short drive through the Layou Valley to Mero Beach. You’ll have time to enjoy the fine, black volcanic sand beach and warm Caribbean sea. Relax on a sun chair, soak up the sun and enjoy the cool coastal breeze.

Before heading back to the ship, you’ll be offered refreshing rum or fruit punch to complete your Dominican experience.

Essential information

This excursion will operate by minibus and on foot. Passengers are reminded to wear footwear suitable for walking over rough, uneven and wet ground. The trail to the falls is around 30 minutes each way which involves some inclined and rocky terrain and steep steps to negotiate, all of which can be very slippery when wet. Please remain on designated pathways. Passengers are reminded to wear swimwear, take a towel and sunscreen. It is advisable to take a light rain jacket.

Dominica’s protected coast and its deep waters are an ideal breeding ground for whales and dolphins, particularly Sperm Whales.

Your search for these lovely creatures will begin as soon as you set off in your low sound, low seated RIB, and skim across the waves of the Caribbean Sea. Periodic stops will be made to listen with a hydrophone for the clicking sound of the Sperm Whale. Keep a close eye out for movement in the water, and you may also catch sight of other common species such as Pilot and False Killer Whales, as well as Spotted, Spinner and Pantropical Dolphins.

Afterwards, your RIB will head to the shore where there will be an opportunity to take a refreshing dip and to enjoy a rum punch, before heading back to the port.

Essential information

This excursion will operate RIB and on foot. This tour is not suitable for those with back or neck injuries or conditions, which may be affected by the bumpy ride. Pregnant women and children may not participate. These are animals in their natural habitat and, whilst every effort will be made to find them, sightings cannot be guaranteed. The crew will follow the International Fund for Animal Welfare Code of Conduct when operating this tour. Passengers will be asked to remove shoes whilst in the RIB. Please wear swimwear, take a towel and sunscreen.

You’ll cruise approximately 3 to 8 miles offshore to begin your search. Every now and then, the boat will stop and a hydrophone will be placed in the water.
During the cruise, the crew will give you commentary on the whales, dolphins and other wildlife that you may see. If they are present, you’ll hear the rhythmic clicking of the Sperm Whales. Please bear in mind that the minimum distance for approaching whales is around 160 feet and so the Captain will manoeuvre the boat so that you can get good views and possibly some fabulous photos.

The deep waters surrounding Dominica are a natural breeding ground for the Sperm Whale, as well as several species of dolphins. The most commonly seen species are Sperm, Pilot and False Killer Whales, as well as Spotted, Spinner and Pantropical Dolphins.

Complimentary fruit juices and rum punch will be served on the return journey.

Essential information

This excursion will operate by boat. These are animals in their natural habitat and, whilst every effort will be made to find them, sightings cannot be guaranteed. If you are prone to seasickness, please take the necessary precautions. The crew will follow the International Fund for Animal Welfare Code of Conduct when operating this tour. This tour is not suitable for children under the age of 4. Passengers are advised to take a camera, binoculars and plenty of sun protection. Passengers must be able to negotiate the large step onto and off the boat.