Falmouth Cruise Port

Port of Falmouth Overview

Falmouth, Jamaica, is a restored Georgian port and organized cruise village. Most visitors join excursions to Dunn’s River Falls, Montego Bay beaches, or Martha Brae rafting rather than staying in town.

A Little History

Falmouth thrived in the sugar era of the 18th–19th centuries with grand Georgian buildings. Decline followed as sugar waned. Modern restoration created the cruise village, while the old town retains historic squares and churches in mixed condition.

Museums

Small local heritage stops exist but are limited. Better cultural experiences come from plantation-house tours or rum estates outside town. Opening days vary and some sites require prearranged tours.

• Tip: Use organized excursions if you want cultural stops; DIY options are limited near the port.

Major Parks and Attractions

The port village has shops and bars. Outside, Dunn’s River Falls is the headline attraction for climbing and photos. River-rafting on Martha Brae is gentler. Montego Bay beaches offer day-pass options. Falmouth’s old town is walkable but short on major sights.

Nearby Places (Easy Day Trips)

Dunn’s River Falls (half day), Montego Bay resorts (half to full day), Martha Brae rafting (half day), and Good Hope Estate for adventure activities (half day).

Shopping

Port village shops sell jewelry, rum, crafts, and souvenirs. Outside gates you’ll find more informal vendors.

• Note: Prices can be high inside the cruise village; bargaining applies outside.

Food and Drink

Expect jerk chicken, fish, patties, and rum drinks. Sit-down restaurants appear in resorts and near the port. Tipping 10–15 percent is normal.

Practical eating tips:

• For quick food, patties or jerk stands are efficient.
• Drink plenty of water; heat and humidity spike midday.
• At Dunn’s River Falls, secure valuables in waterproof pouches.
• Ask guides about safe local eateries if you plan to dine outside the cruise village.

Currency, Payments, ATMs

Jamaican dollar and US dollars. Cards widely accepted at the port and resorts. ATMs inside the cruise village are reliable.

Opening Hours and Holidays

Port shops align to ship times. Town businesses may close early or stay shut Sunday.

Holidays that may affect hours or services:

• Jan 1
• Easter weekend
• Aug 1 (Emancipation Day)
• Aug 6 (Independence Day)
• Dec 25–26

Practical City Notes

Use official taxis or tour operators. Traffic between Falmouth and Ocho Rios or Montego Bay can back up. Crowds at Dunn’s River Falls can be intense; guides help with pacing. English widely spoken.

Quick Plans

1. 3–4 hours: Port village browse plus a short old-town walk.
2. 6–8 hours: Dunn’s River Falls, then a quick shop stop on return.
3. Full day: Martha Brae rafting or a Montego Bay beach pass with time to explore the port village.