As Jamaica's primary gateway, Montego Bay is likely to be a part of any Jamaican itinerary, even if it's just in passing. For those stepping off a cruise ship for a matter of hours, on the other hand, it may be the only part of Jamaica that fits in the itinerary. Here are some suggestions for how to spend one day in Jamaica's second city, as it's often referred to locally:
1. Hit the beach: Both Doctors Cave Bathing Club and Cornwall Beach, both located on Gloucester Ave, AKA Bottom Road, have fine stretches of white sand, restaurant and bar.
2. Go for a sail: Lark Cruises offers day sails departing from the Montego Bay Yacht Club on a 42-foot Beneteau.
3. Tour a great house: No visit to Jamaica is complete without stepping back in time to experience what life was like as a colony of the British Empire. Three great houses offer tours in the vicinity of Montego Bay, each with distinct experience. Rose Hall Great House, perhaps the most well known and foreboding, was the home of Annie Palmer, fearfully known as the White Witch of Rose Hall. Legend has it she murdered several lovers and ruled the plantation with an iron fist. Many visitors claim to feel the presence of spirits touring Rose Hall. A bit further to the east, Greenwood Great House is maintained with original furnishing and adornments and is still inhabited by its owners.
4. Visit the market: There's no better way to get a feel for the real Jamaica than to visit an open air market, in Montego Bay fittingly found on Market Street.
5. Kiteboard: Irie Kiteboarding with Water Network Jamaica is the best outfit to get you out on the water in no time, winds permitting.