Negril Ricks cruise PLUS Booby Cay Lobster & Cave Snorkeling

Planning a day out in Negril? If you’re after a seamless mix of snorkeling, authentic local food, and unforgettable seaside views, this tour from Captain Jace Allen might just be your perfect match. With a 5-star rating from numerous travelers, it’s clear this experience delivers on fun, authenticity, and value.

What we love about this tour? First, the knowledgeable crew makes the entire day feel smooth and engaging, sharing stories and guiding you through vibrant coral reefs and pirate caves. Second, the meal—freshly caught lobster grilled right on Booby Cay—sounds like a true treat, especially paired with the lively atmosphere and warm Jamaican hospitality. The one possible consideration? The weather can affect the experience, particularly the time at Booby Cay, so it’s worth keeping an eye on the forecast.

This tour is best suited for travelers who enjoy a mix of adventure, cultural flavor, and scenic beauty, whether you’re traveling as a family, a couple, or a group of friends craving a lively day on the water.

Key Points

• Authentic Experiences: Snorkeling in pirate caves and exploring coral reefs with local guides provides genuine adventure.
• Delicious Food & Drink: Fresh lobster, jerk chicken, and a variety of drinks make the day both flavorful and festive.
• Beautiful Scenery: From Seven Mile Beach to the Negril Cliffs, scenic views abound.
• Flexible & Convenient: Pickup from anywhere on Negril’s beach and a mobile ticket make planning easier.
• Balanced Activities: Snorkeling, beach cruising, and cliff jumping ensure a diverse day.
• Great Value: With food, drinks, snorkeling gear, and entertainment included, it’s a comprehensive experience for the price.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

The Starting Point: Seven Mile Beach

The day kicks off with a cruise along the famous Seven Mile Beach, famed for its expansive white sands and vibrant beachfront life. You’ll get a good look at the array of restaurants and bars along the coast, with the crew pointing out local spots for future visits. It’s a great way to set the scene—relaxing, scenic, and a perfect introduction to Negril’s lively beach culture.

What makes this stop outstanding is the opportunity to snorkel at a nearby coral reef. The crew, clearly well-versed and eager to share, will teach you about the sea creatures you encounter—an educational touch that adds depth to the fun. As one reviewer shared, the guides’ local knowledge and friendly demeanor made the snorkeling both accessible and memorable, especially for first-timers.

The Highlight: Booby Cay Island & Lobster Feast

Next, the boat heads to Booby Cay, an uninhabited island known for its lobster and relaxed vibe. Here, the crew grills freshly caught lobsters and jerk chicken on authentic fire coal, serving it with steamed vegetables, rice and peas, and garlic sauce. Many travelers say the seafood is among the best they’ve ever had—truly a culinary highlight.

You’ll want to linger here, enjoying the warm sun, the calm waters, and the lively atmosphere of the grill. It’s a picture-perfect scene: seafood on the fire, drinks in hand, and the sound of the ocean all around. A recurring theme in reviews is how delicious and plentiful the seafood is and how much fun it is to watch the crew cook right in front of you.

A note for travelers booking outside lobster season: from April 21 to June 30, lobster is unavailable, replaced with sea crab, fish, or shrimp. This flexibility shows the organizers’ commitment to providing a memorable meal regardless of seasonal constraints.

Exploring Pirate Caves & Negril Cliffs

After lunch, the boat visits the Negril caves, iconic for their pirate lore. You can snorkel in these caves where pirates once hid their treasures—an adventure that sparks imagination. The caves’ rugged beauty and the chance to see marine life make this a highlight for many.

Next, the boat cruises towards the Negril Cliffs, home to Ricks Cafe and its legendary cliff jumping. While you’re free to stay on the boat or get off to soak in the atmosphere, many guests enjoy watching daring jumpers or taking a leap themselves. The views from the cliffs at sunset are stunning and provide a perfect photo opportunity.

The Grand Finale: Rick’s Cafe Sunset

The tour culminates with a visit to Rick’s Cafe, where you can relax and soak in the vibrant sunset scene. Whether you choose to stay on the deck, grab a drink, or jump from the cliffs, the lively music, friendly crowd, and breathtaking sunset make this a truly memorable experience. Several reviews mention how the atmosphere here is contagious—music, laughter, and the spectacular view combine for an almost hypnotic effect.

What’s Included & What’s Not

The tour’s all-inclusive feel is a major plus. Your ticket covers snorkeling gear, an open bar (including beers, rum punch, sodas, and water), lunch, and transportation from anywhere on Negril’s beach. It’s designed to be a hassle-free day, with the crew handling the logistics while you focus on enjoying yourself.

The only thing not included is transportation from locations outside the beach area, so plan accordingly if you’re staying further afield or arriving in Negril by other means.

Group Size & Logistics

With a maximum of 25 travelers, the trip feels intimate enough to foster camaraderie but still lively and fun. Pickup from any point on the beach makes it easy to join, and the flexible schedule means you can enjoy a full 7-hour experience at a relaxed pace.

Real Traveler Insights & Practical Tips

Multiple reviews highlight the professionalism and friendliness of Captain Jace and his crew, who are praised for their local stories, helpfulness, and fun attitude. The snorkeling is described as “great,” with many noting that they appreciated the educational aspect and the chance to touch marine creatures.

Weather can impact certain parts of the tour, especially the time at Booby Cay. One reviewer noted that rain limited their experience, but even then, they still enjoyed the day overall. It’s wise to check the forecast and be prepared for possible weather changes.

The meal at Booby Cay is a standout, with many describing the lobster as “the best ever.” Even those who faced rain still enjoyed the food and the lively atmosphere on the island.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This experience caters well to all ages, making it a versatile choice for families, couples, or groups who want a lively, authentic taste of Negril’s coast. If you love snorkeling, fresh seafood, and lively seaside scenes, this is a fantastic way to spend a day. The inclusion of cultural touches—like pirate caves and Ricks Cafe—adds a layer of authenticity that many travelers cherish.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

For $205, this tour offers a well-rounded, fun-packed day that balances adventure, relaxation, and local flavor. The value is apparent when you consider the food, drinks, snorkeling gear, and guided insights included. It’s particularly appealing for those seeking a lively, social day out with plenty of photo-worthy moments.

If you’re after a day that combines scenic beauty, delicious food, and lively Jamaican culture, this trip is a great choice. The positive reviews reflect consistent satisfaction, especially among travelers who enjoyed the guides’ local knowledge and the quality of the seafood.

That said, keep an eye on the weather, and consider your interest in cliff jumping or snorkeling—those are optional but memorable highlights. Overall, it’s a wonderful way to experience Negril’s best features in one day.

FAQ

Is pickup available for this tour?
Yes, pickup is offered from anywhere on the beach in Negril, making it easy to join the tour without extra hassle.

What is included in the price?
Your ticket covers snorkeling equipment, an open bar with beers, rum punch, soda, juice, and water, lunch (lobster or seasonal alternatives), and the transportation during the tour.

How long is the tour?
The activity lasts approximately 7 hours, giving you plenty of time to enjoy each stop without feeling rushed.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour. Refunds are processed if canceled in time.

What kind of food is served?
A freshly grilled lobster feast, complemented by jerk chicken, steamed vegetables, rice and peas, garlic sauce, and garlic bread. During off-season, seafood is replaced with sea crab, fish, or shrimp.

Is snorkeling suitable for beginners?
Yes, the guides teach about the sea creatures and ensure everyone feels comfortable. The snorkeling spots are accessible and safe for all ages.

What should I bring?
Bring sunscreen, a hat, waterproof camera if you want photos, and a towel. All snorkeling gear is provided.

Is this tour suitable for kids?
Absolutely. Many reviews mention families with children enjoying the experience, especially with the guides’ friendly and accommodating approach.

In The Sum Up

This Negril Ricks cruise with Booby Cay Lobster & Cave Snorkeling stands out as an engaging, well-organized way to explore Negril’s coast. It combines the thrill of snorkeling in pirate caves and coral reefs with the delight of fresh seafood, topped off with the iconic sunset at Ricks Cafe. Whether you’re seeking adventure, cultural charm, or simply a day of soaking up stunning views with good company, this tour offers genuine value. It’s best suited for those who want a lively, authentic Jamaican day out that hits all the right notes of fun, flavor, and scenery.

For anyone wanting a memorable, full-day experience that captures the spirit of Negril, this trip is a top choice—just don’t forget your camera and your sense of adventure.