I posted this originally in the Vintage forum, but it appears that they're all still passed out from the L-tryptophan in their turkey dinners.

(cut-n-paste from that thread):
---

my gf and I will be going on a cruise to the E. Caribbean on the Star Princess leaving Jan 9th, and so we're trying to plan our shore excursions.

one thing we noticed right away is that the shore excursions that Princess offers for pre-booking are friggin expensive! but we've also heard that opting to go on them when underway is even more expensive. I know that there are locals on the islands who offer much the same excursions for much cheaper, but we're a bit reticent for numerous obvious reasons.

anyway, for those of you who've been on a few cruises, have any of you taken any of the shore excursions offered by the local people? or did you take the excursions offered by your cruise line (and did you book ahead-of-time). were there some islands that you just preferred exploring on your own?

our itinerary includes San Juan (arrive 4pm, depart at midnight), St. Thomas (arrive 8am, depart 6pm), Tortola (a: 8am, d: 6pm), and Princess Cays (a: 9am, d: 4pm). I'm sure some Vintagers have been to these islands... are there any "must see" or "must do" excursions?

some time back klassyblue (beth) sent me a PM with some cruising advice (thanks! ) and for example, mentioned the excellent prices for jewelry on St. Thomas.

any and all input appreciated!

 

It's was over 15 years ago when I visited San Juan and St. Thomas. All I remember was in San Juan going to a Flamingo Dance and Casino trip. It was a total waste of $$. Should have taken my own cab ride to the casino.
In St. Thomas you will find plenty of shopping - watches, jewelry, china/ dishes.

Overall, the shore trips are expensive compared to exploring on your own. It really depends how adventurous you are. ( You drive a S2000 !).
REMEMBER to allow plenty time to get back on the ship before it departs without you.