Why go to Falmouth?
This purpose-built port has plenty of attractions, restaurants and bars to keep visitors busy
Aggressive vendors and the sometimes-cheesy tourist traps could be a turnoff
Falmouth is a full-service, easy-to-navigate port, though you'll find very little in the way of authenticity
Falmouth Cruise Port Facilities?
The sprawling complex houses around five dozen shops and eateries, including standard Caribbean port retail shops such as Diamonds International, as well as Jamaican craft vendors. Several open-air wooden kiosks with vendors selling snacks and souvenirs are also set up on the port's neatly bricked open spaces.
Passengers can expect to find duty-free shopping and specialty boutiques, including a store dedicated to late reggae great Bob Marley. Even if you don't plan to head out on an excursion or walk through Falmouth, it's still worth leaving the ship to stroll the complex, browse craft vendors and perhaps try a Jamaican patty at a kiosk. Partiers love to splash in the pool and sit on stools at the swim-up bar at Jimmy Buffett's Margaritaville, which has free Wi-Fi (which sometimes doesn't work when a crowd is trying to use it). You also can buy a $20 Wi-Fi card at the port, with a code for one device. There's an information stand in the cruise terminal. We used it to find staffers' favorite restaurants and dishes in Falmouth.
Good to Know?
Over-aggressive vendors. If you're not interested, resist attempts to engage. Females strolling alone might be victim to cat-calling.
Getting Around?
On foot: Falmouth is a few minutes away, with a scrum of vendors gathering by the guarded port gates. You can easily stroll the town in an hour or so. Skip the Prince Albert Market; vendors were virtually nonexistent when we were there.
By trolley: You can see Falmouth's main sights on a guided trolley tour that leaves from the port.
By taxi: Taxis at the port's transport hub offer standardized rates to nearby beaches and attractions, as well as Montego Bay and Ocho Rios. A taxi to Montego Bay takes about 30 minutes, and Ocho Rios is about an hour away. Or you can step outside the gates and bargain for a lower rate with other drivers. Many will customize a trip for you.
By rental car: The nearest place to rent a car is in Montego Bay or at the Montego Bay airport. It's not worth the time or hassle. Your best bet for independent day trips is to hire a taxi driver (establishing the rate first) to take you where you want.
Currency & Best Way to Get Money?
The Jamaican dollar is the official currency, but U.S. dollars are accepted virtually everywhere, though you may get change back in Jamaican currency at small establishments. Check that change carefully, as we and others have been shorted. Port shops and larger stores or restaurants in town may take credit cards, but it's always good to have cash and ask before trying to use a credit card. The port has two ATMs. To check current exchange rates, visit oanda.com or xe.com.
Language?
English is the official language, but Jamaicans often talk among themselves a lilting, fast-paced patois that's near impossible for non-residents to understand. Use "Yeah, mon" or "No, thanks, mon" to express friendly agreement or decline an offer.
Where You're Docked?
Historic Falmouth Cruise Port is a 32-acre gated facility serving cruisers only. It's open only till 5 p.m. on days when ships are calling. Billed as the first themed port, it's a partnership between the Port Authority of Jamaica and Royal Caribbean, and located just steps away from Falmouth.
