Day 4

This morning we arrived in Falmouth Jamaica at around 9:30 and we were pushed back into dock by Tugs, we were lucky we got in as the caption announced on the tannoy that the previous cruise ship had to abort the docking because of rough seas, so we were lucky as most of us had not been to the island before. We waited until 11:00 despite being allowed off at 10:30 because of the crowds queuing up by the exits. Today we plan on going to Dunns River Falls to walk up the falls, we have not booked an excursion but hope to get a local taxi to drive us around today, kind of like our own personal guide, we are sure it will work out cheaper in the long run and help avoid the masses. The weather was looking great and we have a full day on shore and are expected back at no later than 6:00pm ship time tonight. So we ambled off the ship at about 11:00am and walked throughout the dedicated shopping section to the taxi rank, we worked out that of we went ourselves we would save a lot and save on time because we could run the itinerary, so the return fare to Dunns River falls was $150 for 4 of us, compared to the $69 + tax each for the official tour we were happy, the taxi driver did stop off at local trading posts a couple of times to help support local traders but we didn’t mind as we didn’t buy anything. Any the journey took us about 1 hour and when we arrived it started to rain which didn’t bother us as we were going to get very wet anyway. we paid our $20 each and was led by our guides to the beach where the tour starts, FYI the Dunns River Falls are a collection of 8 fresh water rivers that merge and flow into the ocean. The travelled some 900+ meters and we were going to climb up them, our group was probably about 20 string and we all held hands and helped each other up the rocks, the first step into the water was a shock as the water was freezing but after a while and several dun kings later it felt nice. Our group slowly ascended the rocks and very so often we would be asked to dive back into the river or slide down some rock but each time it was a great photo and video moment. The whole thing was great and by the time we reached the top I think everyone was relieved to have not only made it but without any broken or twisted ankles. The weather was still poor but we were high up and in a rain forest so what could we really expect. Our driver was waiting for us and we all piled into the taxi for the 45 minute return trip back the way we came to the port. It was still only about 3:30 when we got back to we passed through security into the dedicated plaza of shops and bars for a drink in Margeritavilles. We stayed for a while and had a snack and then after that we walked down to the Harley Davidson shop to see if we could get a T Shirt. Lorna found one she liked and we then headed back to the ship and got ready for tonights events. We met at 7:00pm for the next quiz in the Schooners Inn which tonight would be a a movie love themes night. We got our selves a good table and as usual it was clear the usual suspects were in the bar, we were not that sure of how well we were going to do tonight but one thing was certain, we was not going to embarrass ourselves like some groups had done over the last few days, well as it turned out we got 12 out of 20 so not great and not bad, but tomorrow is 80’s night so we are going all in for glory and damn anyone that gets in the way. After the quiz we headed towards the dining room, we were a little late but our guys did not seem to mind, we had a great meal and the best part was our little Indian guy had a new trick to show us, well he must have hated me because I sussed it out straight away and pointed out the prop that made the trick work, but he was laughing and went off to prepare for another trick which was promptly shattered by a misplaced coin and me seeing it but the rest of the guys didn’t see the failure and enjoyed the trick. We feel for the guy because as yet his tricks have either failed or were worked out seconds into the trick, but we had a great time. We spent a few minutes up on deck looking out to 2 cruise ships that seem to be on the same path as us. and then at about 10:45 we went back to our rooms, the climb today had knackered us all and we were all ready for bed. Tomorrow we arrive in the Caymans but we will stay on board for the day because we have all been there many times and the docking requires a tender, so we thought we would try and take over the flow rider tomorrow and chill out all day.