yacht tours in jamaica

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Discovering Jamaica's Coastline

Embark on a journey of luxury and sophistication.

We provide  premium yachting experiences with exceptional service tailored to your needs . Our team of seasoned sailors and veterans in five-star hospitality are just the perfect combination to make your getaway exactly as you desire.

We know your time is valuable, so we make it easy for you to create the perfect memorable excursion with us in a few simple steps.

Why choose us

We strive to provide the best luxury yachting service.

• Private Excursions
• Premium features onboard
• Top spots and secluded inlets
• Experienced crew members
• 1 Yacht Captain

Experience Jamaica in a private yacht cruiser, while your captain chauffeurs you across the emerald, blue waters. Our best-qualified crew will pay keen attention to detail.

Choose one of our meticulously pre-designed tours or plan with us your very own escape

Happy Customers

They speak for us.

We offer weekly cruises & private yacht charters in Kingston, Jamaica.

STRICTLY FUN… NO WEAPONS ALLOWED

We offer 2 weekly cruises:

• Friday Evening Kingston Harbour Cruise | 8pm – 11pm (departs from Ribbiz Ocean Lounge, Downtown)
• Sunday Maiden Cay Beach Cruise | 10am – 2pm (departs from the Grand Hotel Excelsior Port Royal)

WEEKLY CRUISES

The perfect way to celebrate your special occasion in style!

Please Note: Persons must arrive for processing at least 30 minutes before the tour’s departure time. The boat will leave on time. Persons who have missed the boat, thereby voiding their tickets, will have the option to pay a JA$3,000 postponement fee to book a new date to take the tour.

Friday Evening Cruise

Maiden Cay Beach Sundays

Teacher’s Day Harbour Cruise

★★★★★ “It was awesome food music and staff!!!! Did it twice night and day! Fabulous!!!”

★★★★★ “Ecstatic, orgasmic, heavenly, well, it seems that way to me, when I’m on board that lovely catamaran vessel. Also the scenic views around you and open skies above. I’m sure I feel that way I have been on that vessel 15 times.”

★★★★★ “It was amazing. We had so much fun. You will need to experience it for yourself to understand. Thumbs up friendly staff and management. Nice clean atmosphere”

★★★★★ “Definitely recommend. Unforgettable experience!! Different. A breath of fresh air!!”

★★★★★ “It was great for me and good experience for the first time I loved it every single thing about it…”

★★★★★ “Awesome….best birthday ever. Great music, great food, great liquor…”

PRIVATE BOAT CHARTERS

Want a private charter? We have the right size boat to suit your needs…

Loose Cannon Catamaran

Loose Cannon 3 Catamaran

We’re docked at the Grand Port Royal Hotel in Port Royal. Formerly the Morgan’s Harbour Hotel

Sail • Escape • Unwind

• OUR EXPERIENCES

From reserving your very own VIP yacht charter to savoring a delectable dining experience, indulging in our premium bar, and embarking on a mesmerizing snorkeling adventure, allow us to meticulously craft and orchestrate every detail of your day at sea.

Your voyage is not just a journey; it’s a symphony of luxury , and we are the navigators, poised to craft your masterpiece .

Indulge in the extraordinary world of Soma, the leading purveyor of opulent yacht experiences in Montego Bay, Jamaica where we redefine the very essence of luxury on the deep blue seas.

Guided by our unwavering ethos – “Sail, Escape, Unwind” – our ultimate aspiration is to transform your vacation into an incomparable experience of affluence.

Dedicated to the highest standards of privacy and a meticulous devotion to the finer nuances of life, our team of seasoned professionals is unwavering in their commitment to craft experiences that transcend imagination.

Sea & Food

Fill up your body and mind with energy with our delicious lunch served onboard. Lunch and a selection of alcoholic beverages are included in the experience. Customize this private tour to suit your needs. Enjoy the views while relaxing on board your private yacht.

Be as active or as relaxed as you like on this tour.

Lunch Menu includes:

Chicken Wings Chicken Quesadillas Coconut Shrimp Nacho and spinach dip Assorted fruits

Our bar menu includes:

Mimosas (tropical and traditional) Sparkling Wine Rum and vodka mixes Red Stripe beer Red Label Tanqueray gin Selection of Chaser Juices and water

Whether it’s an exclusive family voyage, an exquisite bachelorette soirée, a milestone birthday celebration, or a day of pure indulgence at sea, we take immense pride in our unparalleled adaptability. Our board-certified crew members are authentic masters in their field.

Welcome to a realm where luxury embraces the horizon , and let us be your guides into a world of absolute sophistication and opulence.

What to bring

Sail along the majestic coastline of Montego Bay. Escape! Explore what it means to feel free on the Caribbean sea as our experience affords you peace of mind and a sense of relief.

Treat yourself to exotic mimosas, caribic sunsets and undiluted fun.

JAMAICAN LUXURY BOATS

Embark on your desired water excursion..

Explore our luxury services Explore our luxury services

Embark on a luxurious adventure with our Jamaican boat tours. Our experienced crew will take you on a journey through the crystal-clear waters of the Caribbean Sea, where you discover hidden coves and secluded beaches. Relax in style on our spacious and comfortable boats, while our attentive staff caters to your every need. Indulge in the ultimate luxury experience with our Jamaican boat tours and create memories that will last a lifetime.

Breakfast Cruise

$15,000 JMD | $100 USD per person

2.5-hour cruise to Bobby Cay Island for a heavenly breakfast prepared by our most competent chef. Choose your breakfast option from our menu.

Included with your meal of choice is; rum punch, red stripe beer, juice, and water.

Coffee can be purchased for an additional $700 JMD or $5 USD per cup as well as mimosas for $1500 JMD or $10 USD per glass.

Available daily between 7am - 8am

Rum Punch Cruise

$11,500 JMD | $75 USD per person

Set sail on this 90-minute cruise down Negril's 7 Mile Beach or Negril River. Includes all-you-can-drink rum punch, red stripe beer, and water. Assorted alcohol available for an additional cost. 

Available daily between 10am - 2 pm

Snorkeling Cruise

$13,000 JMD | $85 USD per person

Enjoy a 120-minute snorkeling cruise visiting the most amazingly beautiful reefs in Jamaica. Includes all-you-can-drink rum punch, red stripe beer, and water. Minimum 5 persons, maximum 10 persons. Assorted alcohol available for an additional cost.

Available daily between 10am or 2pm

Night Cruise

Set sail on a 2-hour cruise down Negril's famous 7 Mile Beach. Enjoy all-you-can-drink rum punch, red stripe beer, and water. 

Available daily between 7pm - 8pm 

Lunch Cruise

$20,000 JMD | $130 USD per person

2.5-hour excursion to Bobby Cay Island for 

a delicious lunch prepared by our most capable

chef. Enjoy your lunch while relaxing in the beach 

chairs provided for your comfort or walk to explore the island. Once your meal is consumed, you will reboard the boat to finish your cruise and be taken back to your destination.

Includes your meal of choice, and all-you-can-drink rum punch, red stripe beer, and water. See the menu for meal selections. Please allow 24 hours' notice to book lunch cruise.

Available daily between 11:00am - 3:30pm

Sunset Cruise

Embark on a 90-minute cruise down the 7 Mile Beach with all-you-can-drink rum, red stripe beer, and water. Other alcohol available for an additional cost. 

Available daily between 4:30pm - 5:00pm

Deep Sea Fishing

$45,000 JMD | $300 USD per person

Includes 4 hours of deep sea fishing with unlimited rum punch, red stripe beer, and water. Minimum 2 persons, maximum 4 persons.

Additional hours at $100 per hour per person

Bring your own fishing rod or use ours.

Allow 24 hours notice to book.

Rick's Cafe Evening Cruise

Set sail on a 2-hour cruise down Negril's 7 Mile Beach. Dock at Negril's famous Rick's Cafe for 60 minutes.

Includes unlimited rum punch, red stripe beer, and water.

Available daily at 4pm

Jamaica's National Dish

Ackee and saltfish served with toast and your choice of fresh fruit or yam boiled banana and callaloo..

Butterbean & Saltfish

Served with toast and your choice of fruit or yam boiled banana and callaloo..

Eggs Your Style

Served with toast and your choice of bacon or fresh fruit..

French Toast

Served with your choice of bacon or fresh fruit..

Large Fruit Platter

7 different native fruits served with toast and guava jam..

Pancakes (plain or add bananas)

Steamed or Escovitch

Whole snapper fish.

Grilled Lobster

With real butter garlic sauce (available july 1st - march 31st).

served  coconut curry or garlic buttery 

Jerk Chicken

Served with or without jerk sauce.

served fried, coconut fried, grilled or curried

Gallery gallery, 2023 bennington 22 sxsb.

Contact Us Contact Us

Let us help make your celebration a success! Weddings, Office Parties, Birthdays, Anniversaries, you name it... We do it!

SAIL-A-BRATION CRUISES

Hot music and super hot and spicy dancers combined with unlimited rum, vodka and beer will fuel the party meter to a fever pitch. Adults only!

WET & WILD CRUISE - ADULTS ONLY

WET AND WILD CRUISE

Blend romance and party vibes with a very unique Jamaican culinary experience. A memorable starlight dinner followed by our famous dance party.

CARIBBEAN NIGHT DINNER CRUISE

An unforgettable day of fun aboard our Catamarans. Climb the famous Dunn’s River Falls and party all the way. Red Stripe Beer and Rum drinks on the house!

DUNN’S RIVER FALLS & SNORKEL CRUISE

SNORKEL DUNN'S RIVER CRUISE

Service with a smile that’s the Cool Runnings Catamarans Style.

Jamaica’s number 1 Catamaran Cruises

Cool runnings catamarans.

Loved the boat ride! The crew definitely tried to keep everyone hyped. Music was fantastic! ~ From Tripadvisor ~

A special opportunity to blend romance and party vibes

The staff was incredibly accommodating and energetic! They made sure everyone had a drink in their hand. The DJ was awesome and it was overall just a great time! ~ from Tripadvisor ~

Hot dancers, unlimited rum, vodka and beer plus skinny-dipping at Cool Runnings Cove

Great entertainment on board! This was the best tour during my stay in Jamaica.

~ from Tripadvisor ~

Let us make your celebration a success!

Join our thousands of satisfied guests and find out why cool runnings catamarans has been the #1 cruise company for over 20 years, contact us.

Call us: USA : 1-206-415-9214 | JAMAICA: 876-618-2052 Email us: [email protected] or [email protected] or speak with our online rep today

Sailing from:

Mahogany Beach, Ocho Rios, St. Ann. See on Google map

Bus available for hotel pickup – see hotel pickup time by zone

Mahogany Beach

Contact Cool Runnings Catamarans

1 Marvin’s Park, White River, Ocho Rios, St. Ann

Phone: 876 618 2052 | 876 381 2565 | 876 564 3779

Mobile: US: +1 206 415 9214

Email: [email protected]

Email: [email protected]

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There's a Natual Mystic Flowing

Drift along the luminous waters of the mystic lagoon

Falmouth Mystic Lagoon Tours

Recent guest experiences.

This is a must see! A bucket list item for sure! The tiny little free drink was tasty. The swimming experience was unforgettable and I'm so glad I jumped in the water.

Great service, Excellent staff, Great food...Love love love this experience. Boat ride was amazing. Will definitely go back

This was a breathtaking experience for us all!!! We had read about it online, but seeing the water turn blue when arms were flapping, was really exciting! The children loved it!

Explore The Mystical Waters of the Luminous Lagoon

The Falmouth Mystic luminous Lagoon is one of only 4 bio-luminous lagoons in the world and one of the only luminous lagoon you can go for a comfortable swim and experience the magic of mother nature. Watch the water glow with every move you make. This is one of the most unique night adventure on the island.

Sunset Boat Cruise

At some point in time, we have all dreamed about sailing off into the sunset, and when you book with us here at Mystic Lagoon Tours, that dream can become a reality. Experience the beauty of both the Luminous Lagoon and Jamaica from a new perspective, as you Glide along the waves in one of our amazing, wide-body, spacious custom built boats. Book now, and Lets' turn that dream into a reality.

Luminous Boat Tour

Mystic Lagoon Tours is situated along the banks of The Luminous Lagoon, which is considered one of the most spectacular natural phenomena in the world. The Lagoon is home to a substantial amount of microscopic organisms which have bioluminescent properties. This means that the water has an ominous deep blue/green appearance when it is disturbed.

What will you experience? -You will notice bright flashes of light as fish swim through the water and as the boat moves through the water. -You will get the opportunity to swim and experience the glow up-close and personal. (Life Jackets are mandatory)

Join us at Mystic Lagoon Tours to experience the ultimate snorkeling adventure. We specialize in taking small groups on-board our spacious, custom-built boats for the snorkeling adventure of a lifetime.

Why Come Snorkeling With Us? Our Boats are wide, spacious and stable, meaning you can kick-back and relax in comfort. We have very experienced, fun-filled and enthusiastic guides, to not only ensure your safety, but to also ensure you experience all the lagoon has to offer. So, whether you're seeking a solo escape, romantic vacation or a family getaway, snorkeling along the breathtaking reef is an absolute must. It offers a glimpse into the world rarely seen, where the rhythm of the ocean and the vibrant marine life create and experience that will leave you with cherished memories to last a lifetime.

Limbo and Fire Dance

The fire and limbo dance originated on the slave ships as a form of exercise. The dance continues to be celebrated in Caribbean Carnivals and Calypso as a symbol of survival . The dance is a remembrance of Africa and also a product of the merging of multiple cultures. Kick-Back, have a drink and experience one of the Caribbean's most Iconic and cultural dances.

Unforgettable Taste, Quality and Service

Remember to visit our gift shop.

• Montego Bay Sailing & Snorkeling Tours
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Dreamer Catamarans Adventures in Jamaica

We have the perfect tour for you.

From dawn 'til dusk, we have the tour for you to experience the beauty of Jamaica from the sea.

We have private charters & special events

Here's what you can expect, festive spirit.

Dreamer Catamarans is your ultimate sailing experience. Family owned and operated since 1987,  we've been the leader for sailing excursions in Montego Bay for over 30 years.

See what they're saying!

The Dreamer catamaran was an excellent choice of excursions while docked in Jamaica. Even those who did not choose to snorkel had a wonderful time. The crew was very interested in making sure everyone had a good time. I'd recommend this excursion for all ages. Dreamer Catamaran Sail and Lagoon Snorkel

Crew did a great job. Food, water, rum drinks and foot massage as well as the captain giving us a history and environmental lecture completed. The beautiful reef and fishes. Montego Bay Sailing Tour Guest

It is a breath of fresh air to work with a vendor who is reliable, honest and understanding. Words are unlimited in describing the team at Dreamer Catamarans as they go beyond the call of duty to ensure that everything is done with excellence and expeditiously, always with the customer top of mind. The boats are of the best quality and kept in pristine order. Myrtle Dwyer, Glamour Destination Management

As we got on the catamaran it was a perfect day. The staff were gracious and informative. We had a great sail to the snorkel site and plenty of time in the water. After snorkelling we had a tour of the bay and lots of rum punch and beer. Great day of snorkeling!

Aristo Kat: Inside The Black-Owned Luxury Jamaican Charter Company

Aristo Kat Tours is a Black and family-owned luxury yacht service in Montego Bay, Jamaica that offers guests an intimate experience.

Mitti Hicks • Jul 22, 2021

Jamaica’s top private yacht charter, Aristo Kat, is Black and family-owned. 

While most catamaran cruises offer an experience with a large group of people that you may not know, the co-owners of the premium yacht charter are offering guests something different with an intimate experience.

“In Jamaica , we noticed there was a huge void in the market,” Shari Munroe, Director for Aristo Kat, tells Travel Noire. “We noticed when looking at travel trends, customers wanted a private experience option rather than that traditional catamaran feels with a large group of random people.”

Aristo Kat Tours is solely private, so when you book the cruise, it’s for you and your party only. The largest boat holds up to 40 but you can book a yacht catering to fewer people.

“We’re all about the experience. All of our cruises come with a professional cruise so, when you arrive at the yacht club where cruises leave, we greet you, walk you through, and take you down to the boats. It’s an end-to-end service where we’re catering to your needs.”

What’s also unique about the company is a DJ and bar option that comes with every cruise to tailor to your crew. 

“We offer our experience luxury style, so we do finger foods such as wings and shrimp, and we can cater to different culinary needs. On one of our boats, we offer a signature chef experience, so the chef that comes on board will grill lobster or make sushi, for example, right there in front of you.”

Reservations are filling up quickly for one of the few Black-owned luxury charters in Montego Bay , Jamaica. For more information on how to secure a reservation for sailing, visit the company website here.

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 Island Tours  &  Excursions 

Catamaran cruises, vip yacht & transfers , negril, montego bay, ocho rios jamaica.

SunQueen Luxury Yacht

Set sail in style, with up to 30 of your friends or relatives, cruise the coastline of Negril or maybe you want to cruise to your own private beach for a Lobster lunch.... either way we have you and your guests covered, lets do a little snorkeling on the coral reef maybe, or swim in the caves then a little stop off at the world famous RICKS CAFE, to watch the divers... no matter how you choose to spend your day, its going to be IRIE.... Email us for your rates, lets put you a day together that you will always remember..

Foods can be catered for upon request

Salon is fully air conditioned

Can sleep 4 to 6 guests for long cruises

Private Charters leave from :

Boardwalk Village

Norman Manley Blvd

Times available upon request Morning or Sunsets

            Your Wish is our command.. Yah Mon..!

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See the spellbinding beauty of Jamaica through a new vantage point. With Island Routes as your guide, experience the exhilarating rush of flying along the coastline on Caribbean blues as you take in glorious vistas on Jamaica’s first ever, high-speed Powerboat adventure. Slow down to feel the vibes as you visit iconic tropical locales along the way. Experience the enchanting beauty of the most idyllic hidden gems Jamaica has to offer. Feel the warm tropical breeze rushing through your hair, the sparkling sunlight kissing your skin and the sound of the ocean passing you by. Wonder this way to happiness.

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9 of the best things to do in Jamaica

J amaica may best known by tourists for its beach resorts and white sand beaches, but this beautiful Caribbean island offers so much more for the intrepid traveller.

The island’s wealth of natural sights is perhaps its most remarkable feature, with the soft sands and azure waters of its beaches complemented by unique array of inland waterfalls like Dunn’s River Falls, the towering summit of Blue Mountain Peak and the rainforest-fringed waters of the Martha Brae River.

The towns and cities are mesmerising too. The capital, Kingston, acts as the beating heart of the country and its cultural centre, while seaside towns like Ocho Rios or the famed Montego Bay provide a dose of the laid-back Caribbean vibe that Jamaica is renowned for.

In between is a glut of outdoor adventures, cultural activities and Jamaican jewels to discover, from the wonders of Reggae to Jamaica’s culinary exports. Below, we’ve rounded up the best things to do in Jamaica to help you make the most of your visit.

Take a tour of the capital

As the capital, Kingston is the ‘centre’ of Jamaica and the cultural heart of the country. It is a stark contrast to the relaxed resorts and tranquil coastline of much of the rest of Jamaica, but its lively energy has provided much of what has made modern Jamaica great, from arts and music to a diverse culinary scene.

Reggae fans will want to start by exploring the life of one of Jamaica’s sons at the Bob Marley Museum (where the artist lived from 1975), while anyone wanting to cover more of Jamaican art and culture should carry on to the National Gallery of Jamaica – showcasing everything from indigenous carvings to 18th-century British works – before finishing at the Devon House estate, home to gardens and a collection of antiques once belonging to George Stiebel, the country’s first Black millionaire.

Other historical sites include the 17th-century Fort Charles and Liberty Halls, the headquarters of one of the founders of Pan-Africanism, Marcus Garvey.

Kingston has earned itself a reputation for high levels of crime, so make sure you plan any trip to the city carefully and avoid areas that are known to be dangerous.

Read more on Caribbean travel :

• Best Caribbean holidays and countries to visit
• Why you should visit Sint Eustatius
• The best Caribbean islands for winter sun

Visit Ocho Rios

Ocho Rios is one of several seaside resort towns on the island. While Montego Bay and Negril are worth visiting, Ocho Rios is a great place to spend a couple of nights due to the range of interesting sites nearby, as well as a more relaxed, less high-end resort vibe than that of ‘MoBay’.

Dunn’s River Falls, the Blue Hole and Konoko Falls (more on them below) are all within 30 minutes’ drive, while locals and tourists alike mix at some ofJamaica’s best beaches, including Mahogany Beach, Fisherman’s Beach and Ocho Rios Bay. There’s plenty of character to the town itself too though, from the stalls of the Craft Market or Island Village to the tropical gardens of Shaw Park. The Clock Tower marks the centre of the city, and the surrounding area, filled with Caribbean architecture, is lively both day and night.

See the best waterfalls

Jamaica has a wealth of waterfalls to explore, and Dunn’s River Falls is undeniably the most popular for tourists. They lie around two miles from Ocho Rios, and remain an exceptionally beautiful natural wonder despite the large number of visitors. The falls themselves are idyllic; they stand at 180 metres tall and consist of giant limestone rocks covered with several cascades and surrounded by tropical rainforest. Visitors can climb to the top, but it gets busy so aim to visit outside of peak times.

Konoko Falls is another, less grandiose option near Ocho Rios, with a similarly picturesque setting and far fewer crowds. On the east coast, Reach Falls is one of the more remote options, where swimming in emerald pools and hiking up to Mandingo Cave are both popular. Mayfield Falls are a great option for those looking to swim among achingly beautiful surroundings, as are the waters of the Ocho Rios Blue Hole, where a smaller waterfall complements the turquoise waters below.

Explore the lagoons

The Blue Lagoon and Luminous Lagoon are two of Jamaica’s most striking natural sites, both situated on the northern coast and sitting along different points of the Martha Brae River.

The former lies in the east, where the waters of the Martha Brae funnel through to those of the Caribbean Sea. The lagoon is 55 metres deep and changes colour regularly – between shades of blue, emerald and turquoise – thanks to the mixing of freshwater and seawater. It lies in a protected cove among cliffs and dense greenery, and offers both wild swimming and boat tour opportunities.

The Luminous Lagoon sits further west, not far from Falmouth, and was once an important location for ships arriving to Jamaica. Though surrounded more by buildings than rainforest, this lagoon has become famous due to the microorganisms called dinoflagellates that populate it. When disturbed, they produce a glowing light that makes the lagoon a striking sight (access is only via boat tours, but you can swim as part of the tour).

Hit the beach

Like any Caribbean island, Jamaica is home to a slew of pristine beaches, where white sands are fringed by palm trees and lapped by the turquoise waters of the Caribbean Sea. These beaches range from beautiful secluded spots to much-loved resort areas like Montego Bay.

For something a little more private, opt for Frenchman’s Cove, Boston Bay, Lime Cay or Parrottee Beach. Areas like Half Moon Beach, Seven Mile and James Bond Beach are are little busier – with more restaurants and activities – while some of the most popular beaches on the island include Doctor’s Cave, Winnifred Beach and Reggae Beach. Ocho Rios Bay and Puerto Seco are the most popular resort beaches.

Explore Montego Bay

Montego Bay has formed a reputation as one of the most popular tourist destinations in Jamaica, offering luxurious accommodation options, stretches of fine white sands, lively nightlife and activities that range from water sports to hiking, golfing and enjoying the array of bars and restaurants. In reality, the city is split into two parts – the charming, if sometimes chaotic, local life of the city proper and the pristine beaches and fancy hotels of the touristy suburbs (and Ironshore in particular).

In the city, you can discover Jamaican history and culture, from the National Museum West to the Montego Bay Cultural Centre, as well as landmarks like the impressive St James Parish Church and bustling Sam Sharpe Square (slightly outside the city also lies the Indigenous Rastafarian Village). On the coast, visitors can spend days relaxing on beaches like Doctor’s Cave, enjoying a game of golf at Cinnamon Hill, hiking and rafting at Montpelier Jungle Outpost, or whiling away the afternoons and evenings with cocktails on the Hip Strip.

Like Kingston, some aresa of Montego Bay are known to be dangerous, so plan a city trip carefully and avoid any known crime spots.

Take a trip on a bamboo raft

Jamaica’s answer to the gondola trips of Venice is an even more relaxing affair. These trips take place on long bamboo rafts, with two or three people at a time taken along the waters of the Rio Grande or Martha Brae River by a local guide, floating through thick rainforest and green tunnels before stopping off for optional wild swims.

Tours set off from ‘Rafter’s Village’, a horseshoe-shaped island near the town of Falmouth on the northern coast, and start from around $99 USD (£77) for a two-person trip.

Try some local delicacies

Like many other Caribbean islands, Jamaica has taken influences from several countries and regions to produce the cuisine that is seen on the island today. African, Asian and European touches have mixed with native ingredients (and those introduced from elsewhere) to produce a culinary scene as varied and unique as anywhere in the region.

Popular dishes on the island include curry goat, ackee and saltfish (a local fruit prepared with salted codfish) and variations of jerk pork (slow-cooked pork marinated in chilies, thyme, allspice and garlic), with street food dishes such as beef patties (almost like a Jamaican version of Cornish pasties) and fried dumplings also found throughout the country, from street food vendors to restaurants. Rum is the alcoholic drink of choice here, and some of the best can be sampled with a tour of the Hampden Great House Estate.

Ascend Blue Mountain Peak

Blue Mountain Peak is Jamaica’s tallest mountain, standing at an impressive 2,256 metres tall. The ‘classic’ trail to the summit covers almost six miles over the course of around four hours – though some routes cover up to 10 miles – with many choosing to set off in the night to catch the sunrise at around 6am (a stay at Whitfield Hall allows you a later start time). Along the way you’ll pass through dense jungle vegetation that turns to pine trees and evergreens as the altitude increases, eventually giving way to a clear view the misty hills as the sun comes up.

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Press Releases

• Testimony and Comments

For Immediate Release May 13, 2024

Contacts: Casey Berkovitz, Joe Marvilli – [email protected] (212) 720-3471

Celebrate New York City’s 520 Miles of Waterfront This Weekend

Free Events Scheduled in All Five Boroughs on May 18, May 19, and May 20

Celebration to Highlight Work to Enhance Sustainability, Resiliency, and Health of NYC’s Waterfront

NEW YORK – Department of City Planning (DCP) Director Dan Garodnick today announced a series of free tours and events for NYC 520, an annual celebration of New York City’s 520 miles of waterfront. Organized by DCP with sister agencies, practitioners, and non-profit partners, the celebration raises awareness about New York City’s waterfront, and highlights efforts to improve resiliency and public access. This year, seven events will take place from May 18 through May 20 across the boroughs, offering New Yorkers unique opportunities to explore and enjoy views of a diverse range of waterfront spaces.

“New York City's diverse waterfronts are a defining feature of our city, and we are committed to making them more resilient, sustainable, and ecologically healthy. These walking tours and events will allow New Yorkers to connect with nature and see the transformation these ongoing efforts are making firsthand. I encourage everyone to join us down by the water this weekend to celebrate our remarkable shorelines, and the work that has gone into making them better places to live, learn, work, and play,” said DCP Director Dan Garodnick.

“New York Harbor is cleaner today than it has been in more than 150 years and what better way to enjoy our 520 miles of coastline than by joining other New Yorkers to learn about and explore a unique waterfront space,” said New York City Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) Commissioner Rohit T. Aggarwala . “From Shirley Chisholm State Park along Jamaica Bay to the New Creek Bluebelt on Staten Island, DEP experts will be on hand to share the history of these spaces and the critical role these natural habitats will play in making New York City more resilient to climate change.”

“Spring is the perfect time for New Yorkers to experience the 520 miles of shoreline that New York City has to offer, and we are excited to again partner with the Department of City Planning to celebrate the beauty of our waterfront and waterways with NYC 520,” said New York City Department of Parks & Recreation (NYC Parks) Commissioner Sue Donoghue . “New York City’s shorelines are a critical outdoor recreation resource for many New Yorkers, in addition to being a vital place for ecological restoration and natural conservancy. From retrofitting our coastline to be resilient in the face of climate change, to clearing abandoned boats from the water with a new dedicated retrieval office, our work caring for our city’s natural spaces doesn’t stop at the water’s edge. We are delighted to invite the public to visit our shoreline and learn more about what makes these sites so special.”

This year marks the seventh annual celebration of the city’s 520-mile-long shoreline. Taking place on or around the fifth month and 20th day – 5/20 – each year’s programming has focused on different components of the waterfront and how they shape our everyday lives. This year's events celebrate efforts to enhance the sustainability, resiliency, and ecological health of New York City's waterfront and waterways.

The events set for Saturday, May 18, are:

• Coney Island Creek Park Tour and Beach Cleanup , 10 am to 1 pm – Join DCP and NYC Parks Stewardship program for a tour of Coney Island Creek Park that will highlight the ongoing restoration of dunes and other projects along the creek. Participants will also have the option of joining up in a coastal clean-up after the event. Come dressed in sturdy boots or shoes, long sleeves, long pants, and clothing that can get dirty. RSVP is required.
• Shirley Chisholm State Park Tour , 10 am to 1 pm – DCP, DEP, and the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation (NYS Parks) will host this walking tour of Shirley Chisholm State Park in Brooklyn. Formally landfill, this park is the largest environmental restoration ever undertaken in New York City. Rising 130 feet above sea level, it occupies some of the highest ground in the city and offers spectacular panoramic views. Participants should be prepared for approximately three hours of walking with some steep inclines and bring water, sunscreen and wear comfortable, fully closed shoes (no sandals).
• Governors Island Climate and Environmental Action Walking Tour , 1 to 2:30 pm – Join DCP and The Trust for Governors Island for a walking tour of its resilient and sustainable landscapes and new climate programs. The tour will go over the history, present, and future of climate and environmental action on Governors Island, including the Governors Island Historic District, The Hills, Governors Island Living Lab, and New York Climate Exchange. Afterwards, New Yorkers are invited to attend public events taking place on the island. Attendees should plan to board the 1 pm ferry from the Battery Maritime Building, and bring water, a hat, and comfortable walking shoes.

The events set for Sunday, May 19, are:

• Arverne East Nature Preserve Tour , 10 am to 12 pm – Head to the Rockaways for a walking tour of the Arverne East Nature Preserve, hosted by DCP, NYC Parks, and the New York City Department of Housing Preservation and Development (HPD). The Preserve includes five ecological communities, each contributing to a diverse ecosystem. The tour will begin at Beach 44th St at Edgemere Ave and tell participants about these ecological communities, the Preserve design, and the overall Arverne East development. Upon completion, Arverne East will be one of the most environmentally conscious developments in the United States, achieving net zero and eliminating the need for fossil fuels on site.
• Living Breakwaters Tour , 1 to 4 pm – Living Breakwaters is a state-of-the-art blue-green infrastructure project to reduce risk to Tottenville’s shoreline, enhance harbor ecosystems, and support education and stewardship across Staten Island. This event is made of two activities hosted by DCP, the New York State Homes and Community Renewal’s Office of Resilient Homes and Communities, and SCAPE Landscape Architecture: a tour and discussion of the breakwaters from the beach (open to all) and kayaking to get closer to the breakwaters. Reservations are required for kayaking on a first come first serve basis.
• Bronx Point and Mill Pond Park Tour , 3 pm to 4 pm – Join DCP, NYC Parks, the New York City Economic Development Corporation, and Type A Projects for a tour of the Harlem River waterfront in the South Bronx. This tour will feature an overview of the Bronx Point redevelopment, including the new building and open space, BronxWorks pre-k, the Universal Hip Hop Museum, and much more. Attendees will also get a chance to visit the recently-renovated Mill Pond Park, which includes Deco Turf tennis courts, a sand play area, a shaded outdoor classroom, and an ADA-accessible esplanade.

The final event in this series is set for Monday, May 20:

• Staten Island New Creek Bluebelt Tour , 10 to 11:30 am – Hosted by DCP and DEP, this tour will feature the most recent Bluebelt sites in the New Creek watershed, including the new Last Chance Pond and “Gateway to the Bluebelt” stormwater wetlands. Participants will explore the different stormwater, flood control, ecological, and native plant aspects of the system. The meeting location will be at the Staples Store parking lot located at 1885 Hylan Boulevard.

“This celebration of New York City’s waterways is an important showcase for why we must work hard to improve resiliency and sustainability in all our communities. They city’s unique and diverse waterfront requires a variety of ecological strategies that can both protect natural resources and safeguard residents. Through infrastructure projects such as our Living Breakwaters program, we are proud to contribute to the public and private investments that will help reduce erosion, enable communities and neighborhoods to better withstand storms, and enhance local habitats for years to come,” said New York State Homes and Community Renewal Commissioner RuthAnne Visnauskas.

“We are thrilled to help celebrate NYC’s magnificent 520 miles of waterfront and welcome all New Yorkers to Shirley Chisholm State Park as we celebrate the park’s fifth anniversary and the Centennial season for our state park system,” said Leslie Wright, New York City Regional Director of NYS Parks . “The park is a testament to the power of collaboration and a stunning example of the splendid natural diversity of Jamaica Bay. The 407-acre park offers singular views, unexpected serenity, and a wealth of recreation for bikers, hikers, anglers, paddlers and bird watchers.”

“As construction of the Living Breakwaters nears completion, the shore walk and kayak tour with NYC 520 is an exciting opportunity to share how the Living Breakwaters will make the  Staten Island Shoreline more resilient and celebrate the collective accomplishments of everyone who has made this important project a reality, especially the NYS Office of Resilient Homes and Communities  and the Staten Island Residents who have advocated for and guided the project,” said Pippa Brashear, Resilience Principal and Partner at SCAPE Landscape Architecture . “SCAPE is excited to host this event with New York State Office of Resilient Homes and Communities and Kayak Staten Island and be a part of the NYC 520 celebration of New York's exceptional waterfront; come join us in Conference House Park / Raritan Bay on May 19th!”

“Bronx Point is proud to be included in NYC 520 this year. The project's new public open space along the Harlem River was the product of a 2+ year community design process that engaged a broad range of community stakeholders — from kids to seniors — and included over 25 public meetings and discussions. Marvel and Abel Bainnson Butz's masterfully executed final design includes a fully accessible play

ound, adult fitness areas, a new BBQ area, and many opportunities for riverside passive activities. We are proud to be the first affordable housing project to be verified through the WEDG standard, and strove to ensure that this new public open space was easily accessible and welcoming to the surrounding neighborhood. Transforming this formerly industrial site into new green open space included a newly rebuilt “live” revetment and a lush planting plan that allowed us to help fulfill a mandate for equitable investment in waterfront communities. Please come and enjoy with us,” said Annie Tirschwell, Type A Projects.

While New York City is home to many great public spaces, the waterfront links together its largest open space: its waterways. Out of 520 miles of shoreline, hundreds of miles are publicly accessible today. These open spaces are incredibly varied and include beaches, boardwalks, piers, esplanades, trails, lawns, and ballfields. Additionally, the city’s waterways themselves represent 156 square miles of public open space, larger than the total square milage of Philadelphia.

New York City’s waterfront and waterways provide a wide range of experiences and activities, including biking, fishing, and strolling along the shoreline, swimming and paddling a boat in the water, community events, educational programming, and taking in amazing views of the city’s skyline.

To stay in the loop about these events for 5/20, as well as other opportunities to learn about and help plan for New York City’s shoreline, follow @NYCPlanning on  Twitter  and  Instagram .

Department of City Planning The Department of City Planning (DCP) plans for the strategic growth and development of the City through ground-up planning with communities, the development of land use policies and zoning regulations applicable citywide, and its contribution to the preparation of the City’s 10-year Capital Strategy. DCP promotes housing production and affordability, fosters economic development and coordinated investments in infrastructure and services, and supports resilient, sustainable communities across the five boroughs for a more equitable New York City.

In addition, DCP supports the City Planning Commission in its annual review of approximately 450 land use applications for a variety of discretionary approvals. The Department also assists both government agencies and the public by advising on strategic and capital planning and providing policy analysis, technical assistance and data relating to housing, transportation, community facilities, demography, zoning, urban design, waterfront areas and public open space.