Black River might not be the first place you think of for a drinking tour, but it’s actually a fantastic spot to combine scenic beauty with authentic island sipping experiences.
The lush landscape, the chance to visit Floyd’s Pelican Bar, and the long Black River cruise make these tours uniquely suited for travelers who want more than just a pub crawl—they want a taste of Jamaica’s natural charm and local flavor.
We’re particularly fond of the YS Falls and Black River Safari Tour, which pairs stunning waterfalls with a boat ride through Jamaica’s most famous river, and the Ys Falls, Floyd’s Pelican Bar, Black River Safari combo that hits all three highlights in one go.
If you’re looking to experience Jamaica’s best water-based attractions with a side of local drinks, these tours offer a wonderful mix of scenery, culture, and fun.
Whether it’s enjoying the cool spray of waterfalls, toasting at Floyd’s Pelican Bar, or spotting wildlife on the river, you’ll find plenty of memorable moments. Check out our detailed comparisons below to see which tour is best suited for your style and budget.
Quick Overview
This guide features two top-rated drinking-focused tours in Black River, each offering a different experience. The first, YS Falls and Black River Safari Including Pelican Bar Tour, combines a visit to Jamaica’s iconic waterfalls with a river safari and the famous Pelican Bar. It’s perfect for those who want a full-day adventure with a mix of nature and local flavor.
The second, Ys Falls, Floyd’s Pelican Bar, Black River Safari, offers a slightly shorter, more flexible experience that emphasizes personal transport and the chance to buy drinks at Floyd’s Pelican Bar. Both tours focus on the highlights, but their pacing and inclusions differ—read on for the details.
1. YS Falls and Black River Safari Including Pelican Bar Tour
At number one, this YS Falls and Black River Safari Including Pelican Bar tour stands out because of its comprehensive nature. For around $250 per person, you get a full day of exploring Jamaica’s lush scenery and enjoying a drink or two in style.
The tour begins with a private pickup—you won’t be sharing your vehicle with strangers—and your driver will share insights about Jamaica’s culture and history along the way. Your first stop is the YS Falls in St. Elizabeth, one of Jamaica’s most beautiful natural attractions.
The waterfalls are set in a lush garden, and the climb up the seven tiers offers plenty of spots for photos or just cooling off. The admission is included, so you don’t have to worry about extra fees. Expect about two hours here.
Next, your boat takes you on the Black River safari, cruising upstream for about two hours. The guide offers interesting commentary about the river’s ecology and the communities along it, all while you enjoy the scenery and maybe spot some crocodiles or herons.
Afterward, you visit Floyd’s Pelican Bar, a truly iconic Jamaican watering hole built from driftwood, sitting right in the ocean. Here, you’ll soak in the views, enjoy a cold drink, and even take a swim. This stop is about two hours long.
This tour’s biggest strength is its blend of nature, wildlife, and laid-back island drinking. It’s ideal for travelers who want an all-in-one experience without feeling rushed. The price includes all admissions, and the scenic stops make it worth every penny. The only downside? The reviews are currently unavailable, but based on the itinerary, it’s a well-rounded choice for a full day of fun.
Bottom Line: If you want a guided, all-inclusive day with a mix of waterfalls, wildlife, and the legendary Pelican Bar, this tour is tough to beat.
2. Ys Falls, Floyd’s Pelican Bar, Black River Safari
At number two, this Ys Falls, Floyd’s Pelican Bar, Black River Safari tour offers a more flexible, personalized experience for around $130 per person. It’s a good option if you prefer private pickups and the freedom to explore at your own pace.
The focus here is on three highlights: YS Falls, Floyd’s Pelican Bar, and a Black River cruise that emphasizes wildlife and local culture. The tour begins with a visit to YS Falls, a site that opened in 1992 and features seven waterfalls surrounded by gardens and trees. You’ll have about 45 minutes to enjoy the falls, but admissions are not included, so plan accordingly.
Next, you’ll head to Floyd’s Pelican Bar. This unique bar is made of driftwood and is only accessible by boat. In about 1.5 hours, you can relax with a drink (your expense) and enjoy the stunning sunset views. There’s even a chance to see dolphins if you’re lucky—an authentic, laid-back Jamaica experience.
Finally, the boat cruise along the Black River showcases Jamaica’s wildlife and local communities. It lasts about an hour and provides interesting insights into the river’s ecology and history. Because admissions are not included, you’ll need to budget separately for entry fees, but the flexibility allows you to customize your day.
This tour is best suited for travelers who enjoy private transportation, want to buy drinks on-site, and prefer a slower pace. It’s a great value considering the personalized service and focus on iconic spots. The main limitation is the lack of included admissions, so be prepared to pay as you go.
Bottom Line: Perfect for independent-minded travelers who want a relaxed schedule and the freedom to purchase drinks at their leisure.
How to Choose
When deciding between these tours, consider your budget, how much time you want to spend, and your interest in guided versus customized experiences. If you prefer a full-day, guided adventure with all payments included, the first tour (YS Falls and Black River Safari Including Pelican Bar) offers great value.
On the other hand, if you want more flexibility and don’t mind paying for admissions separately, the second option (Ys Falls, Floyd’s Pelican Bar, Black River Safari) suits you better.
Also, think about your fitness level—climbing at YS Falls might be more involved than just relaxing at Floyd’s Bar. For travelers on a tighter budget or looking for a more personalized experience, the second tour provides that extra touch of independence. Planning your trip during the dry season (December to April) will enhance your experience, especially for outdoor activities and boat rides.
Final Thoughts
Both tours showcase the best of Black River’s natural beauty and lively drinking spots. The YS Falls and Black River Safari Tour is ideal if you want a guided experience that covers all bases in one day. Meanwhile, the Ys Falls, Floyd’s Pelican Bar, Black River Safari tour offers a more relaxed, customizable approach at a lower price.
For those looking for a mix of adventure and relaxation, booking early is wise—these trips are popular, especially in peak season. Whether you prefer a guided, all-inclusive day or a private, flexible tour, Black River provides authentic Jamaican experiences that blend scenery, wildlife, and a drink or two in the sun.
Feel free to choose based on your interests and schedule—either way, you’ll leave with fantastic memories of Jamaica’s natural beauty and lively bar culture.