When Your Cruise Ship Calls at a Port, Call on a Resort

Rather than wandering around on your own or spending a pretty penny on an escorted excursion when your cruise ship calls at a Caribbean port, how about a day at a seaside resort?

You can buy day passes to many resorts in the islands and on the Mexican coast, giving you access to guest amenities. They may cost less than excursions or spending your own money a la carte.

In Antigua, consider the offer from Sandals Grande Antigua, a couples resort: all meals and drinks, use of six pools, five whirlpools, the beach and all activities including snorkeling, sailing, aquatrikes and scuba from 10 to 6 for $110.50 per person.

In Cozumel, Mexico, a day pass good from 9 to 5 at the Fiesta Americana Cozumel Resort includes breakfast, lunch, drinks, beach, pool and nonmotorized water sports. Cost: $57 per adult, $42 per child.

All-inclusive day passes for Sunset Jamaica Grand Resort in Ocho Rios cost $60 for adults and $40 for children. You'll get to use its three beaches, three pools, waterslide, jacuzzi, nonmotorized water sports and tennis courts. Plus meals and drinks.

For specific costs and a choice of day-pass deals in the Caribbean, go to www.resortforaday.com or call 631-940-7061 in advance of your voyage.

Joan Rattner Heilman writes on good deals and where to find them.