Roseau, Dominica

Heading out of Roseau, you will wend your way up to Morne Bruce. From a height of 300-feet, you will have wonderful views of the town. From here, you can 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 will 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.

Note: There will be approximately 1 hour of walking over uneven and inclined surfaces including steps. Pathways can be slippery when wet. Comfortable non-slip shoes are recommended. Guests are reminded to wear swimwear and take a towel if wishing to take a dip at the Falls. Before booking this excursion you must refer to the ‘Beach / Water Related’ paragraph under the Guide to Symbols in this brochure.

Travel 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 will 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 refreshment will be served before returning to the ship.

Note: 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. Guests are advised to take water shoes and bring along rain gear. Guests are reminded to wear swimwear and take a towel if wishing to take a dip. Before you book this excursion, you must refer to the ‘Activity Excursion’ and ‘Beach / Water Related’ paragraphs under the Guide to Symbols in this brochure.

Travel to historical Morne Bruce for a view of Rosseau and the coastline, before driving through the Botanical Gardens. Despite the destruction of Hurricane David in 1979, the gardens have now been beautifully restored.

Driving north from Roseau, you will enter the Canefield Estate leading onto the Springfield Road. Take in the majesty of mountain peaks, carpeted in rich rainforest foliage, colourful tropical flowers, bananas, mango, cacao and avocado trees. From the hills of Springfield you descend into the beautiful and scenic Layou Valley.

You will make a stop at a local venue where you will be offered a complimentary fruit juice, as you relax and enjoy a local cultural performance with music and dance. Your return to Roseau is by way of the western coastal road.

Note: This tour is a sightseeing tour with the majority of the time spent seated on the minibus. Please bear this in mind, considering the smaller styles of minibuses that are used in the Caribbean. Guests must be able to negotiate the steps onto and off the minibus The roads around Dominica are steep and have sharp bends in places. This tour is not recommended for young children.

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 will really feel as if you’re in the depths of the Dominican rainforest.

From the Falls, you will take a short drive through the Layou Valley to Mero Beach. You will spend some time on the fine, black volcanic sand beach and have chance to swim in the warm Caribbean Sea. Relax and soak up the sun and enjoy the cool coastal breeze.

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

Note: Guests 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. There are also some steep steps to negotiate. Please remain on designated pathways. Guests are reminded to wear swimwear, take a towel and sunscreen. It is advisable to take a light rain jacket. Before you book this excursion, you must refer to the ‘Activity Excursion’ and ‘Beach / Water Related’ paragraphs under the Guide to Symbols in this brochure.

After a safety briefing, you will 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.

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 will also have an opportunity to swim, before paddling back to your exit point. Here, you’ll be rewarded with a well-deserved complimentary refreshment and fresh fruit.

Note: Participants should be competent swimmers and physically fit. Children under 8 may not participate. Kayaking time will be approximately 1 hour. Please take shoes that can get wet, a towel and non-oil sunscreen. You will be required to wear a life jacket. Before you book this excursion, you must refer to the ‘Activity Excursion’ and ‘Beach / Water Related’ paragraphs under the Guide to Symbols in this brochure.

Travelling through the Canefield Estate you will 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.

Note: There will be approximately 40 minutes of walking over uneven and inclined surfaces including steps. Pathways can be slippery when wet. Comfortable, non-slip shoes are recommended. Guests are reminded to take sunscreen, and to wear swimwear and take a towel if wishing to take a dip at the Falls. Before you book this excursion you must refer to the ‘Beach / Water Related’ paragraph under the Guide to Symbols in this brochure.

As your boat takes you south west along the coast, you will have a fine view of Roseau and the villages of Newtown, Loubiere and Point Michelle. The snorkel site is located 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!

Note: 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. Before you book this excursion, you must refer to the ‘Activity Excursion’ and ‘Beach / Water Related’ paragraphs under the Guide to Symbols in this brochure.

You will cruise approximately three to eight 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 will 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 photographs.

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.

Note: 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. Guests are advised to take a camera, binoculars and plenty of sun protection. Guests must be able to negotiate the large step onto and off the boat.

Take a scenic drive through the Dominican countryside, heading up to the Antrim Valley, located on the verge of the lush rainforest.

Upon arrival you will be greeted by Dr Roger Burnett and wife, Denise and commence a tour of the studio. Gain an insight into the age-old working methods of clay modeling and bronze casting and view the artists past and present work, including life-size figures titled ‘Daughters of the Caribbean Sun’. Dr Burnett is renowned for his ability to inspire with his open creativity.

You will also be shown the delightful gardens, which Denise has single-handedly created, and continues to perfect. The informal theme of the gardens offer an insight into the way islanders work their land, combined with the beauty of Dominica’s tropical flora and fauna.

During your visit you will be offered light refreshments, and there will be an opportunity to purchase original prints and souvenir gifts from the gallery.

Note: This tour involves some walking over relatively flat ground, which may be uneven in parts. Flat, comfortable shoes are recommended. US Dollar currency is required for purchases.

This eco-tour takes you on a light hike to the secluded Twin Falls, tucked away in the lush rainforest. You will reach the waterfall where you can bathe or simply admire the surroundings and see a natural cave.

After your hike, you will have worked up quite an appetite. Enjoy a wonderful organic buffet luncheon of local food and fruits prepared for you at the Eco-Village. Whilst you dine, you will be entertained with typical Carib Indian dancing.

After luncheon, you will have a chance to take a dip in the natural pool or browse the award-winning Carib Indian craft items.

On your return drive, your Carib Indian guide will take you through the Carib Territory onto Horse Back Ridge, which is one of the highest points of the island.

Note: Comfortable, non-slip shoes are recommended. Guests are reminded to wear swimwear, take a towel and sunscreen. The walk to the Falls is around 20-30 minutes each way and includes steps, inclines and uneven ground which may be slippery when wet. Please remain on designated pathways. There are steps to negotiate in order to reach the toilet facilities at the lunch venue. The organic luncheon will be vegetarian. Before you book this excursion, you must refer to the ‘Activity Excursion’ and ‘Beach / Water Related’ paragraphs under the Guide to Symbols in this brochure.

As you glide slowly through pristine rainforest, you will encounter nature at her best. During the 90-minute aerial tram round trip, your guide will introduce you to the many types of flora, fauna and wildlife found in Dominica’s forests. Spectacular views of majestic mountains and the Caribbean Sea, as well as the Breakfast River Gorge, are all part of this wonderful experience.

You will have the option to disembark at the final station and walk the impressive 270-foot suspension bridge to see the five waterfalls (water level dependent). Take a trail walk to the mid station where you’ll re-board your gondola.

Those not wishing to take the optional walk can relax at the meeting point whilst waiting for the remainder of the group. Enjoy a cooling refreshment before heading back to Roseau.

Note: Comfortable, flat, walking shoes are recommended. Guests are advised to take protection from the rain; mosquito repellent is also advised and should be applied prior to taking the tram ride. There will be approximately 5 minutes’ walking over uneven ground and guests must walk 10 steps to the boarding area. The bus ride to the Tram Station takes approximately 45 minutes. Due to the popularity of this tour, queues to embark the tram are likely. The walk leading to and from the suspension bridge is over very uneven and rocky terrain.

Enjoy a scenic 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 for some of the filming of ‘Pirates of the Caribbean 2'. Take a swim in the cool pool 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 will enjoy a hot mineral bath.

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

Note: 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. This tour is not suitable for guests under the age of 18. Guests are reminded to wear swimwear and take a towel. Before you book this excursion, you must refer to the ‘Beach / Water Related’ paragraphs under the Guide to Symbols in this brochure.

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, you will visit two of the island’s charming flower gardens, Green Mountain and Alfred's Place, where the fascinating facts behind Dominica’s flower gardening will be discovered.

Your next stop is a local retreat, to experience some Caribbean Creole cooking. A professional Caribbean chef will show you a fabulous demonstration using fresh local ingredients, and you will have the chance to sample some of the delicious dishes.

Enjoy a brief tour of the house, before the return drive to Roseau.

Note: 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.

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 are 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 will 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 return drive a photograph stop will be made at the Jaco Falls. Enjoy the view and perhaps take the walk down to the waterfall pool, before returning to Roseau.

Note: The drive to Pagua River is around 1¼ hours. 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 Jaco waterfall pool. Before you book this excursion, you must refer to the ‘Activity Excursion’ and ‘Beach/Water Related’ paragraphs under the Guide to Symbols in this brochure.