Negril Ricks cruise PLUS Booby Cay Lobster & Cave Snorkeling

This experience made our article of 15 Best Boat Tours & Cruises In Negril.

A Full Day of Adventure and Authentic Flavors in Negril

If you’re after a day packed with stunning scenery, delicious food, and lively local culture, this Negril Ricks cruise with Booby Cay Lobster & Cave Snorkeling is hard to beat. Priced at $205 per person, it offers about seven hours of fun, including multiple snorkeling stops, a BBQ lobster feast, and a visit to the iconic Rick’s Cafe. The tour is operated by Captain Jace Allen’s boat tours, which means you’re in experienced hands with a crew known for knowledgeable commentary and friendly vibes.

What we love most about this tour is the chance to see Negril’s famous Seven Mile Beach from the water, enjoying some of the best coral reefs and underwater caves. Plus, the freshly grilled lobster on Booby Cay is a highlight — a genuine taste of local flavor that makes this trip stand out. Another plus is the sunset visit to Rick’s Cafe, famous for its cliff jumps and lively atmosphere, giving you a taste of the local party scene with drinks and music.

A potential consideration is that weather can impact the experience — as one reviewer noted, rain limited some activities. Also, since the tour is about seven hours long, it might be a full day if you prefer shorter outings or have limited time. It’s best suited for travelers who want an active, immersive experience with plenty of snorkeling and cultural flavor.

This tour really suits families, couples, or groups who enjoy being on the water, and those looking for an authentic Jamaican experience that combines natural beauty with local cuisine and lively social spots. If you love seafood, scenic coastlines, and a lively boat crew, this is a perfect fit.

Key Points

• Authentic Experience: Combines snorkeling, local food, and visits to iconic spots like Rick’s Cafe.
• All-Inclusive: Food, drinks, and snorkeling gear are included, offering great value.
• Seafood Highlight: Freshly grilled lobsters (or substitute if out of season) on Booby Cay.
• Scenic Views: Cruise along Seven Mile Beach and explore Negril’s famous caves and cliffs.
• Lively Atmosphere: Fun crew, music, and the possibility of cliff jumping at Rick’s Cafe.
• Weather Flexibility: Weather can affect activities, so check the forecast and be prepared.

A Deep Dive into the Experience

Starting Point and Duration

The tour kicks off right on Negril’s Seven Mile Beach, a place many consider the heart of the town’s stunning coastal scenery. The pickup service makes getting to the boat easy if you’re staying nearby, and the entire experience lasts roughly 7 hours. This means you should be ready for a full day of sun, sea, and fun, with plenty of time to relax or get involved in the various activities.

Snorkeling at Two Different Spots

The first major highlight is the pair of snorkeling stops. The crew is praised for their knowledge and friendly attitude, making beginners feel comfortable while offering interesting insights into the marine life. You’ll snorkel at a vibrant coral reef, where the chance to see and touch marine creatures makes this a memorable part of the trip. The second snorkeling spot is in the famous Negril caves, an area that once offered pirate hiding spots. Travelers have enjoyed the adventure of exploring these hidden caves, and some even like to imagine finding long-lost treasures—who wouldn’t?

Booby Cay Lobster & Jerk Chicken

The meal on Booby Cay is a true standout. The freshly caught lobster is grilled on authentic fire coal, giving it that smoky flavor that seafood lovers crave. Alongside is Jamaican jerk chicken, served steaming with steam vegetables, rice and peas, and garlic sauce — a generous and flavorful feast. One reviewer called the lobster “the best ever,” emphasizing how fresh and tasty it was. Keep in mind that lobster season is from July to April, so during the closed months, the menu switches to sea crab, fish, or shrimp, keeping the seafood options delicious.

Negril Cliffs and Cave Snorkeling

After lunch, the boat takes you to the Negril Cliffs for more snorkeling in the pirate caves. This adds a sense of adventure and history, as you explore waters where pirates once hid. The setting is dramatic with towering cliffs and clear waters, providing plenty of photo-worthy moments.

Rick’s Cafe and Sunset

The final stop is Rick’s Cafe, a legendary spot known for its cliff jumps and vibrant scene. You’re given about an hour here — enough time to people-watch, listen to live music, or try the daring jump if you’re feeling brave. Watching the sunset from the water or the cliffs creates a truly memorable finish, with drinks, music, and lively chatter filling the air. Several reviews mention how fun and energetic this part of the tour is, making it a fitting capstone to the day.

What’s Included and What to Consider

The all-inclusive package covers alcoholic drinks, lunch, soda, water, and snorkeling gear, providing excellent value. The pickup service from anywhere on Negril’s beach simplifies logistics, letting you relax from the start. However, this tour only includes transportation within Negril, so if you’re staying outside the town, you’ll need to arrange your own transfer.

Authenticity and Value

This tour’s strength lies in its balance of guided adventure and authentic local flavor. The crew is lauded for their knowledge and friendliness, making the entire experience more engaging. The local cuisine — especially the lobster and jerk chicken — offers a real taste of Jamaica, not just tourist fare. Plus, the scenic boat rides, combined with snorkeling in vivid coral reefs and pirate caves, provide plenty of opportunities to enjoy the natural beauty of Negril.

From a value perspective, the all-inclusive price packs in multiple activities, meals, and drinks, which can otherwise add up if booked separately. The opportunity to snorkel in two different locations—one being a cave—is a bonus for those wanting to see underwater landscapes and marine life.

Insights from Reviews

One traveler noted, “The Captain and the crew were knowledgeable and fun,” highlighting how the guides enhance the experience. Another mentioned, “Great snorkeling, best lobster ever, fun crew, nice sunset,” which encapsulates the tour’s main attractions. Even critics noted that weather impacts — rain limited some activities — but overall, the positive reviews dominate, confirming the tour’s reputation.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This adventure is perfect for families with children, as the stops are engaging and the crew is accommodating. Couples seeking a romantic yet lively day will appreciate the scenic boat rides and sunset at Rick’s. Those interested in local cuisine and culture will find the lobster and the pirate caves particularly appealing. And if you’re someone who enjoys snorkeling and exploring in a friendly group, this tour checks all the boxes.

The Sum Up

This Negril Ricks cruise with Booby Cay Lobster & Cave Snorkeling offers a well-rounded day of natural beauty, cultural flavor, and fun. The combination of snorkeling in vibrant reefs, savoring delicious seafood, and witnessing the famous sunset at Rick’s Cafe makes it a standout option for travelers looking to make the most of their time in Jamaica. The knowledgeable crew, inclusive nature of the tour, and authentic local touches make it a great value, especially for those eager to experience the island’s best from the water.

Whether you’re a snorkeler, seafood lover, or simply someone wanting to soak up the lively coastal atmosphere, this tour promises a memorable day filled with adventure and flavor. It’s an excellent choice if you want a full immersion into Jamaican coastal life without the hassle of planning every detail yourself.

FAQ

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes snorkeling equipment, lunch (lobster or substitute during off-season), drinks (alcoholic and non-alcoholic), water, and pickup from anywhere on Negril’s beach.

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 7 hours, making it a full-day experience that covers multiple stops and activities.

Can I snorkel at two different spots?
Yes, you will snorkel at two separate locations, including the coral reef and the Negril caves, providing diverse underwater scenery.

What food is served during the trip?
The main meal features freshly grilled lobster (or sea crab/fish/shrimp during certain months), jerk chicken, steam vegetables, rice and peas, and garlic sauce.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, it’s recommended as perfect for all ages, especially those who enjoy water activities and outdoor fun.

What should I bring?
Bring sunscreen, a hat, waterproof camera if you like, and perhaps a towel for drying off after snorkeling.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather. If canceled due to rain or storms, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

This tour presents a balanced mix of natural beauty, cultural flavor, and lively fun—an excellent way to spend a memorable day in Negril.