Trelawny is more than just its beautiful beaches and lush scenery; it’s also a fantastic destination for drinking tours that combine local culture, history, and fun. Whether you’re a rum enthusiast eager to learn about Jamaica’s iconic spirit or a party lover looking for a lively cruise, Trelawny offers options that won’t disappoint. One of our favorites is the Appleton Rum Factory tour. It provides an immersive journey into the island’s most famous export, with plenty of tastings and insights into the rum-making process. Plus, it includes stops at natural attractions like YS Falls and Black River, making it a well-rounded day out. For those who love a vibrant atmosphere and a good dance, the Rick’s Cafe Party Cruise combines snorkeling, cliff diving, and an open bar—an all-in party that captures the island’s lively spirit.
Whether you’re after a detailed exploration of Jamaican spirits, a scenic boat ride, or a high-energy party, the drinking tours in Trelawny provide something for all. Let’s explore what each tour offers and help you pick the perfect experience.
Quick Overview
The list below includes a variety of drinking tours in Trelawny, from distillery visits to full-day excursions and party cruises. Each offers a distinct way to experience Jamaica’s famous drinks and culture:
– Make your own Bean to Bar Chocolate Factory Tour: a chocolate-making experience with a historical twist.
– Appleton Rum Factory, Ys Falls, Black River Safari, Floyd’s Pelican Bar: a full day combining rum tasting, waterfalls, river cruise, and a floating bar.
– RICKS CAFE PARTY CRUISE RIU AQUARELLE with Open Bar & DJ: a lively party cruise with snorkeling, cliff jumping, and dancing.
– Full Day Appleton Rum YS Falls & Pelican Bar Group Tour: an all-in-one day of rum, waterfalls, and a floating bar.
– Full-Day Appleton Rum, YS Falls and Pelican Bar Private Tour: a private, customizable version for a more exclusive experience.
1. Make your own Bean to Bar Chocolate Factory Tour
At number 1, the Make your own Bean to Bar Chocolate Factory Tour offers a sweet twist on the typical drinking experience. While technically centered around vegan dark chocolate, this tour taps into the same love for local craftsmanship and history. It’s more than just a class — it’s a deep dive into the journey of chocolate, from tree to bar. This hands-on experience allows you to understand the cultivation, processing, and craft behind artisanal chocolate.
What makes this tour stand out is its educational approach. It’s perfect for travelers who want to see Jamaica’s agricultural roots and appreciate the cultural significance of chocolate. The guide shares insights about the history of cocoa in Jamaica and the evolution of chocolate-making, offering a perspective that’s both educational and delicious. The 1.5-hour session is intimate, with a maximum of 3 reviews giving it a perfect 5.0/5 score, mostly praising the engaging guide and the chance to customize your own dark chocolate bar.
Bottom line: If you’re a foodie or interested in learning about Jamaica’s agricultural heritage, this tour offers a unique, flavorful experience with great value at $75 per person.
2. Appleton Rum Factory, Ys Falls, Black River Safari, Floyd’s Pelican Bar
For a comprehensive day mixing rum tasting with natural beauty, the Appleton Rum Factory, Ys Falls, Black River Safari, Floyd’s Pelican Bar tour hits the mark. Starting at the Appleton Estate (the most famous rum producer in Jamaica), you’ll learn about the rum-making process and enjoy tastings of the island’s iconic spirit — a must-see for any spirits lover [].
After the factory, the tour moves to the Y.S. Falls, where you can swim beneath waterfalls and walk through lush gardens. Next, a Black River cruise offers a chance to spot wildlife and learn about the local communities. The day ends at Floyd’s Pelican Bar, a legendary floating bar where you can catch the sunset and relax with a drink on stilts in the ocean.
This tour is well-rated (4.5/5) and highly praised by travelers like “Liel, our driver, was knowledgeable and made sure we had a great experience.” It’s ideal for those who want a mix of cultural insight and natural beauty with ample opportunities to sample Jamaican drinks along the way.
Bottom line: It’s a full-day adventure delivering authentic flavors, scenic beauty, and fun storytelling. Perfect for travelers who want a balance of education and exploration.
3. RICKS CAFE PARTY CRUISE RIU AQUARELLE with Open Bar & DJ
The RICKS CAFE PARTY CRUISE is the most energetic on our list, perfectly suited for those who want a lively party experience. Starting from your hotel, the cruise heads to Negril, where you’ll snorkel on a coral reef, then sail to the world-famous Ricks Cafe — one of the top bars on the planet.
Once at Ricks, you can watch the cliff jumpers, dance to the DJ spinning tunes, or just enjoy the sunset with a free open bar. The tour lasts around 7-8 hours, making it an all-day event filled with music, dancing, and marine life. The reviews are glowing, with one traveler calling it “a great time,” praising Margaritaville’s fun atmosphere and the snorkeling.
This tour is ideal for adults who want a high-energy day filled with drinks, music, and spectacular views. It’s less about the history and more about the party vibe, making it suitable for those seeking a lively escape.
Bottom line: If you’re after a fun, social experience with plenty of drinks and dancing, this cruise is your best bet.
4. Full Day Appleton Rum YS Falls & Pelican Bar Group Tour
The Full Day Appleton Rum YS Falls & Pelican Bar Group Tour combines the best of Jamaica’s rum culture with natural beauty and a floating bar. Starting at the Appleton Estate, you’ll get a comprehensive look at Jamaica’s most renowned rum producer, including a factory tour where you can juice sugar cane and sample the spirits.
Afterward, enjoy a refreshing swim at Y.S. Falls, a scenic spot with cascading waterfalls and lush surroundings. The highlight for many is the boat ride out to Pelican Bar, a quirky, rustic bar on stilts over the ocean that’s perfect for relaxing with a cold drink.
This tour offers great value at $195 per person and is perfect for travelers wanting a full day of diverse experiences. The guided group setting keeps things organized and social, while the mix of tasting, swimming, and lounging covers many interests.
Bottom line: It’s an all-around fun day mixing Jamaica’s top spirits, nature, and a unique bar experience. Ideal for travelers who want a full, varied adventure.
$195.00 per person
5. Full-Day Appleton Rum, YS Falls and Pelican Bar Private Tour
The Full-Day Appleton Rum, YS Falls and Pelican Bar Private Tour offers a customized experience for those who prefer a more intimate and flexible itinerary. This private tour includes the same highlights as the group version — rum tasting at Appleton, waterfalls at YS, and a boat trip to Pelican Bar — but with a level of personalization.
At $300 per person, it’s the most expensive option, but it’s worth considering if you value privacy and a tailored experience. The guide can adapt the pace or focus on specific interests, providing an exclusive day on the island.
Travelers who have booked this tour often mention the personalized service and the ability to avoid crowds. It’s best suited for romantic getaways or small groups seeking a relaxed, tailored experience.
Bottom line: For those who want a luxury, private day of Jamaica’s best drinks and scenery, this tour delivers a personalized touch.
$300.00 per person
How to Choose
When deciding between these drinking tours in Trelawny, consider your budget, interests, and time constraints. If you want a comprehensive day combining natural beauty and rum, the Appleton Rum Factory and waterfalls is a great choice. For a more lively, party-focused experience, the Rick’s Cafe Party Cruise offers endless fun. If privacy matters or you’re traveling in a small group, the private tour is worth the splurge.
Booking early is recommended, especially in peak season, to secure your preferred date and avoid disappointment. Consider your energy level—full-day tours are a fantastic way to see many sights, but they require some stamina.
Final thoughts
Trelawny offers a diverse set of drinking tours that can suit anything from culinary curiosity to party enthusiasm. For those interested in learning about Jamaican rum, the Appleton Factory tour is hard to beat. If you’re looking for fun, sun, and music, the Rick’s Cafe cruise will keep you dancing all day.
No matter what you choose, these experiences are a reminder that Jamaica’s spirit runs through more than just its drinks — it’s in the lively, friendly culture that makes every moment memorable. Book early, pick what excites you most, and enjoy your time exploring Trelawny’s rich flavors and fun.