While there are many options available for travelers at ports of call, booking an organized shore excursion can make a huge difference in your experience. Trying to explore a city on your own can be stressful and time consuming—unless you are familiar with the area, then figuring out where to go and what to see can be difficult and trying to get a taxi or other public transport might even be impossible with other travelers trying to do the same. Booking a shore excursion will not only relieve the inevitable stress but will save a lot of time that you can spend exploring more of the destination. Organized excursions also provide safety and security, especially for those not familiar with the local culture and geography.

What you do while in port is just as important—and memorable—as what you and your family do onboard the ship, so it’s crucial to pick a cruise ship and itinerary that allows you to do all of the activities that you and your family want to do, and introduces you to some you may not have previously considered.

In choosing the right shore excursions for your family, you want to make sure you choose those that help you make the very most of your time ashore and the locations you’re visiting. When involving the kids in your selection, it’s not only important to pick something that will provide hands-on entertainment, but will also educate them about the places they’re visiting and the cultures and histories to be found there. In Alaska, for instance, some lines allow children to learn how to “pan for gold” just as the first Western settlers and miners did in the 1800s.On a cruise through Europe, kids and their parents can take a cooking class to learn how to make local delicacies and treats.

If you plan to travel with a larger multigenerational group, it’s crucial to pick shore excursions that include as many of the family members together all at once. This might involve a leisurely sightseeing tour or a bit of beach or resort time. If you and your family seek out more adventure, consider more active endeavors, from hiking excursions to canopy tours for the ultimate adrenaline rush.