Roseau Cruises, Dominica
Known as the island of waterfalls, Dominica is as green as it is unspoilt. Fairly off the tourist trail, this exotic isle is a paradise for nature lovers. In fact, it’s one of the Caribbean hotspots for rainforest trekking. And of course, it’s got some superb beaches. Not the snow-white variety you’d expect, but dramatic volcanic sweeps and secluded coves hidden by greenery. Have your camera at the ready…
• Make your way through the rainforest of canopied ferns and soaring trees in Canefield and you’ll arrive at the Emerald Pool. A sparkling grotto at the foot of a 12-metre waterfall, it’s the perfect place for a cooling dip.
• Don’t miss the chance to river tube down Dominica’s biggest river, River Layou. You’ll climb into what looks like a giant rubber ring, before battling currents, rocks and rapids as you head downstream. It’s great fun, and gives you fantastic close-up views of the island’s jungle-like scenery.
• Trek through the Mome Trois Piton rainforest. It’s crammed with exotic plants and flowers, as well as 172 different species of bird. If you’re really lucky, you’ll catch a glimpse of the endangered parrots that call this place home.
• Make a beeline for the famous Trafalgar Falls – they crash down a 220-foot rock face into a shimmering pool.
SHORE EXCURSIONS View all excursions
Wacky Truck Waterfall & Rainforest Adventure
Dominica has been dubbed the ‘island of waterfalls’ and, with a nickname like that, it definitely wasn’t meant to be seen through a window. This is one of the Caribbean’s most unspoilt places, and this trip lets you tour the virgin landscape in an access-all-areas truck. Your journey begins with a drive through the rainbow-bright capital, Roseau. You’ll pause at the Morne Bruce viewpoint to get a bird’s-eye view of it, before taking a turn into the rainforest. You’ll spot the Wotten Waven Sulphur Springs and the Ti Tou Gorge as you travel through the tropics – if the latter looks familiar, it’s because it had a starring role in Disney’s Pirates of the Caribbean 2. There’s a crevice in the mountain here, where hot and cold water mingles in a plunging rock pool. There’ll be some time for a dip and, if you’re brave, you can swim further into the gorge to see one of the isle’s most beautiful waterfalls. Rum punch and fresh fruit will be served as you dry off.
Wacky River Tubing
Get ready for a wet and wild adventure along Dominica’s longest and largest river. You’ll take your seat in a rubber tube ready to battle the currents, rocks and rapids of the Layou River. Feel the cool mountain breeze as you spin and twirl downstream, passing the every changing scenery of this amazing valley. A guide will be with you the whole time, and half-way through the adventure you’ll stop at a natural pool to wait for the others to catch up. This thrilling ride definitely isn’t one for the faint-hearted.
Island Traditions and Herbal Remedies
You’ll love this island tour with a difference. It gives you a chance to soak up Dominica’s scenery and get an insight into the local way of life. It begins with a southwards drive to Bellevue Chopin, a tiny village at the base of the Morne Canotte and Morne Anglais volcanoes. You’ll visit an organic herbal farm, where a farmer will talk about the history of herbal remedies, and give you a tour of the herb garden. You’ll also be treated to cups of organic tea. You’ll call in at the Geneva Heritage Park next, where you’ll visit a local community art and craft workshop. Take a look around the craft shop before taking a short drive to your last stop of the day. A visit to a typical local vegetable garden in on the cards. You’ll be shown around by a member of the family that lives on the adjoining farm, and you’ll be able help yourself to a taste of something. Having whetted your appetite, you’ll then be welcomed into the farm for some more snacks.