OCHO RIOS, JAMAICA

Leaving our ship we will enjoy a scenic ride along the coast pass Dunn’s River Falls to the quaint town of St Ann’s Bay, which was the original Spanish Capital of the island. We will see the mid 1800’s church and the statues of two historical figures linked to St Ann’s Bay.

Leaving our ship we will enjoy a scenic ride along the coast pass Dunn’s River Falls to the quaint town of St Ann’s Bay, which was the original Spanish Capital of the island. We will see the mid 1800’s church and the statues of two historical figures linked to St Ann’s Bay. The Statue of Marcus Mosiah Garvey, which commemorates the Jamaican national hero who championed a back-to-Africa movement for blacks in the U.S. He was born near St Ann’s Bay in 1887; and a statue of Christopher Columbus is also on the square. Leaving St Ann’s Bay behind, the drive continues to Seville Heritage Park. The major attraction of the Park is the collection of artefacts on display in the Great House which depicts various aspects of the life of the Taino Indians, Africans and Europeans. In the Park, which overlooks the beautiful Caribbean Sea, is the relic of a water wheel which was used to operate the old sugar mill, there is also the Overseer’s House and a barbecue. On our return drive to Ocho Rios, we will enjoy a refreshing drink at Ruins at the Falls and then continue to the eastern edge of town where the Harmony Hall Art Gallery is located. The gallery is housed in a charming mid 19th century Methodist church house. We will see a spectacular collection of paintings and crafts that reflect the lively mix of races and cultural influences on the island. It is not over yet! We will be taken to the world famous Fern Gully Gorge, which boast over 100 species of ferns and shrubs; then on to Wassi Arts Pottery Works, an unexpected treasure chest of unusual pottery that delights collectors and visitors. The name “Wassi” is an old Jamaican dialect word, probably derived from the word “wasp”. On the tour, we can meet the artisans at work and observe the process of making the beautiful wares from start to finish…the clay shed, the potter, the firing and the showroom where the finished works are displayed. We will have time to browse through the items on display and maybe make a purchase or two before the return drive to the ship. Please note there is approximately 45 minutes of walking included in this tour with approximately 5 steps at the Heritage Park and approximately 15 steps at the gallery.

DESCRIPTION CORRECT FOR 2008 SOUTH AMERICA CRUISE