Appleton Rum Tour and Floyds Pelican Bar from Montego Bay Hotels and Villas

Experience the Best of Jamaica: Appleton Rum Estate and Floyds Pelican Bar Tour

Imagine a day where you get to sip authentic Jamaican rum, learn about its history, and then relax on a tiny bar built on stilts in the ocean. This private tour from Montego Bay offers exactly that — a blend of culture and beachside chill. For $240 per person, you’ll spend about 4 to 6 hours exploring the world-famous Appleton Estate, followed by a scenic boat ride to the iconic Floyds Pelican Bar. It’s a perfect combo for those wanting a taste of Jamaica’s spirits and its relaxed coastal vibe, all in one seamless day.

What we love about this experience? First, the personalized nature of the private tour means you get the full attention of your guide, making the journey more engaging and flexible. Second, the included transportation and boat rides remove any stress about logistics, so you can really focus on enjoying each moment. The tour also offers group discounts, which is a bonus if you’re traveling with friends or family.

One thing to consider is that this tour is around 4 to 6 hours long — so it’s a fairly full day. If you’re hoping for a more leisurely pace or want to spend more time at each site, you might want to plan accordingly. This tour suits travelers who love authentic experiences and don’t mind a bit of adventure, especially those eager to see Jamaica’s unique rum culture and its famous floating bar. It’s particularly appealing for first-timers wanting a well-rounded, immersive taste of the island.

Key Points

• Exclusive Private Experience: Personal guides ensure tailored attention.
• All-Inclusive Transportation: Covers drives, and a boat to Floyds Pelican Bar.
• Cultural and Scenic Highlights: Taste authentic Jamaican rum and sip drinks on a floating ocean bar.
• Flexible and Convenient: Pickups from Montego Bay hotels included, group discounts available.
• Great for Rum Enthusiasts: Learn about Jamaica’s most famous export and enjoy tastings.
• Ideal for Relaxed Day-Trippers: A mix of cultural insights and oceanic relaxation.

A Deep Dive into the Tour Experience

Starting Point: The Appleton Estate Rum Tour

The journey begins with a drive southward, into Jamaica’s lush mountains. The Appleton Estate, renowned for its high-quality rum, is the first stop. Here, the guided tour lasts about two hours and includes a walk through the estate’s fields, distillery, and aging warehouses. We loved the way the guide shared stories about the estate’s history and the rum-making process, which adds richness to the tasting experience.

Expect to taste some of Appleton’s celebrated rums, including their signature blends. The tasting session is usually included in the price, and you’ll appreciate the chance to understand what makes Jamaican rum distinctive—its rich, smooth flavor, and the traditional methods used in production. The estate’s scenic setting, with tropical trees and rolling hills, makes for a pleasant backdrop to your learning.

The Highlight: Floyds Pelican Bar

After exploring the estate, a motorized boat whisks you across the shallow ocean to Floyds Pelican Bar. This quirky bar, built by Floyd himself, sits on stilts in the middle of the sea. According to one enthusiastic reviewer, “We also met the owner of Floyds Pelican Bar,” adding a personal touch to what’s already an iconic spot.

Once there, you’re free to order drinks (including local rums, at your own expense), enjoy the view, and even take a swim around the bar. Many visitors find Floyds to be a perfect place for unwinding in a setting impossible to replicate elsewhere. You can sip a cold Red Stripe beer, relax with a rum cocktail, and just soak in the ocean breeze. The bar’s rustic charm and the surrounding clear waters make it a photogenic, relaxing stop.

Why This Tour Works

This tour’s strength lies in its balance of culture, scenery, and relaxation. The included transportation means you don’t need to worry about logistics — everything’s taken care of. It’s clear from reviews that the guides are knowledgeable and friendly, often sharing tips and stories along the way. One traveler noted, “We had a great driver gave us tips and explained as he drove us.”

Potential Drawbacks

The main consideration is that the tour lasts several hours, which might be tiring if you’re not used to a full day of sightseeing. Also, since Floyds Pelican Bar is built on the ocean, weather conditions could impact your experience. If it’s stormy or rough, the boat ride might be less comfortable, but the tour provider does offer a full refund or rescheduling if weather cancels the trip.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for travelers who want a personalized, authentic Jamaican adventure without the hassle of planning each step. It’s especially suitable for rum enthusiasts, beach lovers, and those looking for a unique photo opportunity. Families, couples, or small groups seeking a fun, relaxed day out will find this combo of estate touring and ocean lounging just right.

The Experience in Detail

The Appleton Estate: A Taste of History and Craftsmanship

From the moment you arrive, the estate’s lush tropical landscape welcomes you. The guided tour takes you through the estate’s sprawling fields where sugarcane is harvested, giving insight into the raw materials behind Jamaica’s famous rum. The guide’s commentary brings to life the estate’s history, dating back over 250 years, and the traditional methods still used today.

You’ll see the distillation process, where molasses are converted into spirit, and the aging warehouses filled with barrels. The tasting session is a highlight — expect to sample a variety of rums, from light to dark, each with unique flavor notes. One review praised the experience, saying, “The rum tour was great, and we met the owner of Floyds Pelican Bar,” highlighting the personal connections that can develop during the trip.

Floyds Pelican Bar: Oceanic Relaxation and Local Flavor

The boat ride to Floyds Pelican Bar is part of the fun. The small vessel cruises over shallow waters, offering views of vibrant coral and marine life below. Once at the bar, you’ll see why it’s become a Jamaican icon. Floyd’s bar is built entirely out of wood and located just a few feet above the water, giving you an authentic, laid-back experience.

Here, you can purchase snacks, sip a locally brewed Red Stripe beer, or indulge in a rum cocktail. Many visitors enjoy taking a swim around the bar or just lounging with their feet in the water. The relaxed vibe and scenic setting make Floyds Pelican Bar a must-visit for those seeking a unique coastal experience.

Logistics and Practical Details

The tour operates Tuesday through Saturday, with pickups offered from your Montego Bay hotel. The entire experience is scheduled to last roughly 4 to 6 hours, depending on group size and timing. Transportation is included, making the trip hassle-free, and group discounts encourage savings for larger parties.

The tour is confirmed upon booking, and cancellation is free up to 24 hours in advance. In case of bad weather, a full refund or rescheduling is available, which is reassuring given the oceanic component.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour for You?

This tour offers a well-balanced look into what makes Jamaica special — its famous rum, friendly locals, and stunning ocean views. If you’re someone who enjoys learning about local products, relaxing in scenic settings, and experiencing a bit of island life firsthand, this is a great choice. The private nature of the tour means it’s tailored to your pace and interests, making it ideal for couples, small groups, or families wanting a personalized adventure.

The inclusion of transportation, a guided estate tour, and a boat trip to Floyds Pelican Bar makes it a convenient, value-packed option. The reviews reflect a high level of satisfaction, with travelers praising the knowledgeable guides and the authentic experience.

In short, this tour is perfect for those seeking a mix of culture, leisure, and scenic beauty — a true taste of Jamaica’s laid-back spirit.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Since the tour involves sampling alcoholic beverages and the minimum age for alcohol consumption is 18, children can participate in the estate visit but will need to skip the tastings.

How long does the entire tour last?
The tour typically takes about 4 to 6 hours, including travel time, estate visit, and time at Floyds Pelican Bar.

Is transportation included?
Yes, round-trip transportation from your Montego Bay hotel is included, along with the boat ride to Floyds Pelican Bar.

Can I cancel the tour if weather is bad?
Absolutely. The tour offers free cancellation if you notify at least 24 hours in advance. If the weather cancels the trip, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

What should I bring?
Bring sunscreen, a hat, swimwear if you plan to swim, and some cash for purchases at Floyds Pelican Bar.

Are group discounts available?
Yes, group discounts are offered, making it more affordable for larger parties.

What is the cost of the tour?
The price is $240 per person, which covers the estate tour, transportation, and boat ride. You pay separately for drinks and food at Floyds Pelican Bar.

Whether you’re a rum lover or just looking to enjoy some of Jamaica’s most iconic sights, this Appleton Rum and Floyds Pelican Bar tour offers a memorable, authentic experience that’s worth every penny.