Negril in November - suggestions for a shop?

[Byte Me]

Based on the Jamaica sticky thread and other reports I'm planning on going out w/ Sundivers but open to other suggestions.

We're staying at Riu Negril. I'm rescue certified. My wife doesn't dive so she'll be on the beach or at the spa!

How are Sundivers about bottom time v other shops in the area? Its our first time down so any other suggestions welcome! That sticky thread has been great info!

 

[editmojo]

Did Couples Negril in August and the diving was included. I don't think that's the case with RUI. But they may have a dive op on site.

I've read nothing but good thing about Sundivers. I would assume you'd get more bottom time and more say in dive sites with an independent dive op.

PM the folks on the sticky. They would would have the inside track on other dive ops.

You'll have a blast in Jamaica. Very friendly folks. We didn't stray off the resort as it exceeded all our expectations, but people seem to enjoy the snorkel trips. There is a booze cruse that will take you south to some cliff diving. I think its by Rick's Cafe (of which we heard mixed reviews)

 

[Willar]

Sundivers is just down Norman Manley Blvd. from the Riu and Sundivers will come pick you up and take you back. Sundivers will generally let you dive your computer once they know you are a skilled diver, but your first dives may be limited.

We love Negril and like to go out to some local restaurants like Cosmos (very rustic), Xtabi, Rockhouse, or Kuyaba. All are casual but excellent food, great sunsets, and safe places. Skip Margaritaville Negril unless you must say you've been there -- drinks and food are too high. I hear the new rebuilt Rick's Cafe is nice but I've never been a fan since it seems to be a tourist trap.

Have a great time!

 

[Byte Me]

Sundivers is just down Norman Manley Blvd. from the Riu and Sundivers will come pick you up and take you back. Sundivers will generally let you dive your computer once they know you are a skilled diver, but your first dives may be limited.

We love Negril and like to go out to some local restaurants like Cosmos (very rustic), Xtabi, Rockhouse, or Kuyaba. All are casual but excellent food, great sunsets, and safe places. Skip Margaritaville Negril unless you must say you've been there -- drinks and food are too high. I hear the new rebuilt Rick's Cafe is nice but I've never been a fan since it seems to be a tourist trap.

Have a great time!

Thanks! Willar, how do you guys typically get from the airport to Negril - just jump in a taxi or are there other options? How much $$ should we plan for if its taxi?

 

[Willar]

Most all-inclusive resorts have bus transportation included. You'll need to check to see if your package includes it, but I beleive it does. If so, I would take the provided bus. You will have a 1:15-1:30 (1 hour, 30 minute) ride with a beer and potty stop along the way. You will get to see the rustic shacks where some Jamaicans live, roadside stands, schools, and small towns along the way. I encourage first-timers to do the drive so they can see some real Jamaican life. The quality of the road is good but somewhat twisty.

If you don't like the bus or get carsick easily you can fly TimAir Limited for about $250 round trip for two. You will save about 30-45 minutes. This is a small aircraft but they give great service. You will arrive in Negril and have a $5-10 taxi ride to the resort. We did this when it was cheaper but find the cost too high now and we stick with the bus.

A private taxi service can meet you at the airport and rush you to your destination. Try to contact them ahead to arrange your pick-up time. They will help carry your bags out as soon as you exit customs and you can be at your resort in 1 hour. I hear Alfred's or Big Ship Tours are good. Cost should be about $60 one way for 2. Contact info for several taxi's can be found at: Negril.com - Tours & Rental Services

 

[Byte Me]

No bus provided by Riu - however Dudley from Big Ship tours is hooking us up, private transfer for $60 one way. Cheapest I could find that wasn't a bus and after doing the bus a couple times in Playa v private transfer - the extra couple bucks is worth the private! Although I'm guessing there wouldn't be as many stops as there can be from Cancun airport to Playa!!

Thanks for the tips - can't wait to get there and reeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeelax! (and dive!!)

 

[Willar]

You have a good plan going, price sounds right, you should be in great shape. Dudley should give you the option for a potty and beer stop about halfway. Shouldn't be too many stops. There are frequent traffic jambs in Montego Bay and Lucea that could slow you down. Be sure to ask about Lennox Lewis' home and the story on the Lucea clocktower.

Have a great time!