Full-Day Appleton Rum, YS Falls and Pelican Bar Private Tour

Explore the Best of Jamaica with the Full-Day Appleton Rum, YS Falls, and Pelican Bar Private Tour

If you’re dreaming of a day that captures the true spirit of Jamaica, this private tour might just be what you’re looking for. It offers a mix of iconic sights—from touring a renowned rum factory to swimming in lush waterfalls and relaxing at a quirky, stilted bar on the water. While it’s not a budget option, the personalized experience and carefully curated stops promise a memorable day tailored to your pace.

What we really like about this tour is its flexibility and focus on local flavor. The private aspect means you’re not stuck with a big group, so it feels more relaxed and personalized. Plus, the diverse stops—rum tasting, waterfalls, and a unique bar—offer a well-rounded glimpse of Jamaica’s culture and natural beauty. That said, it’s worth noting that it’s not suitable for guests with reduced mobility or small children, so plan accordingly.

This tour suits travelers who want an authentic, leisurely day exploring some of Jamaica’s top highlights without feeling rushed. It’s great for those who appreciate good value for money and enjoy a mix of sightseeing with opportunities to relax and sample local treats.

Key Points

• Personalized Experience: Private tour gives you control over your schedule and pace.
• Diverse Stops: From rum tasting to waterfalls and a unique boat bar, it covers a lot of ground.
• All-Inclusive Pricing: Entry fees, boat cruise, lunch, and drinks are included, offering straightforward value.
• Not for All: Not suitable for guests with mobility issues or small children.
• Timing & Duration: Full-day (around 8 hours), starting early at 6:30 am for a full experience.
• Flexibility & Control: As a private tour, you can enjoy a more leisurely, customized day.

A Closer Look at the Itinerary

The Appleton Estate Rum Experience

The day kicks off at the Appleton Estate, where you’ll spend around three hours exploring what many consider the finest rum in Jamaica. This part of the tour is particularly appealing for those interested in the craftsmanship behind one of the island’s most famous exports. You’ll get a guided tour of the distillation process, see how the juice from sugarcane is turned into rum, and even try your hand at juicing sugarcane yourself.

Most travelers find this part both educational and delicious. The tasting session is a definite highlight, with the opportunity to sample the honey-colored rums straight from the source. One reviewer commented, “We loved the way the guide explained the process and the tasting was fantastic.” The admission fee is included, so it’s straightforward without any hidden costs.

Keep in mind, the factory visit is about understanding the craftsmanship and history, not just a quick tasting. If you’re interested in spirits or Jamaican culture, you’ll appreciate the depth of this experience.

YS Falls

Next, it’s off to the YS Falls, roughly two hours into the trip. These waterfalls are often described as some of Jamaica’s prettiest, with multiple cascading levels and turquoise pools. You’ll spend about two hours here, giving you plenty of time to relax and cool off in the water.

The swimming here is a major draw—many guests say the water is refreshingly cool, especially after the warm drive. The setting is natural and unspoiled, with lush greenery surrounding the falls. Light lunch, included in the tour, is served at YS Falls, giving you a chance to enjoy local flavors while soaking in the scenery.

Some reviews mention that the falls are a peaceful, less commercialized spot, perfect for a laid-back swim. If you’re a nature lover or just looking to beat the heat, this stop hits the mark.

Floyd’s Pelican Bar

The final major stop is Floyd’s Pelican Bar, a quirky, iconic Jamaican watering hole perched on stilts over the water. After a boat ride that lasts about an hour, you arrive at this famous floating bar, which is probably the coolest bar in the world.

You’ll have around three hours here—enough to relax, take pictures, and enjoy the laid-back vibe. The bar is known for its unusual setting and friendly atmosphere. It’s a great spot to unwind, sample local delicacies, or just gaze at the horizon. Be aware that drinks at Pelican Bar are not included, so bring some cash if you want to enjoy a cold beer or cocktail.

One traveler described it as “a must-see spot that’s unlike any other,” and many say it’s a highlight of the day. The boat ride and the bar’s unique location make it a fun, memorable finale to your Jamaican adventure.

What’s Included and What to Keep in Mind

This tour covers a lot, and the price of $300 per person includes most of what you’ll need: entrance fees, boat cruise, local guide, breakfast, lunch, and soft drinks. The all-in-one pricing makes it easier to budget without surprises.

However, extras like souvenirs, additional drinks at Pelican Bar, or photos aren’t included, so plan ahead if you want to take home souvenirs or capture the moments. Also, since it’s a private tour, your group size is limited to a maximum of seven people, which means a more intimate experience but also requires booking in advance.

The tour starts early at 6:30 am, giving you a full day to enjoy each stop, and the flexible schedule allows for a relaxed pace—ideal if you prefer not to rush.

Practical Tips

Bring bathing gear, sunblock, and a towel for swimming. Wear comfortable footwear suited for walking and water activities. Since this isn’t a family-friendly trip, small children or guests with mobility challenges might find it less accessible, especially given the boat rides and outdoor nature of the stops.

Honest Feedback from Travelers

While there aren’t many reviews yet, the feedback available points to good value for money and a well-rounded day. One reviewer mentioned, “The tour felt personalized and relaxed, perfect for getting a taste of Jamaica without rushing.” Others appreciated the variety of stops and the chance to experience local culture firsthand.

Some noted that the boat to Pelican Bar could be fun but might be bumpy if seas are rough, so check weather conditions if you’re sensitive to motion. The tour seems to strike a good balance between sightseeing, relaxation, and culture.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

If you’re after a curated, private experience that gives you a real taste of Jamaica’s spirit—without the crowds—this tour delivers. It’s especially suited for travelers who value the flexibility of a personalized schedule, enjoy natural scenery, and want to taste local spirits and foods.

It’s ideal for those who are active enough to handle outdoor activities and boat rides but don’t need a family-friendly or very casual trip. If you’re curious about Jamaican rum, love waterfalls, or just want a day of authentic adventure, this could be your perfect fit.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for travelers with reduced mobility?
No, this tour isn’t recommended for guests with reduced mobility due to outdoor activities and boat rides.

What’s included in the price?
The price includes entrance fees, a boat cruise, a local guide, breakfast, lunch at YS Falls, and soft drinks.

Are drinks at Pelican Bar included?
No, drinks at Pelican Bar are not included, so you should bring extra money if you want to purchase beverages there.

How long is the boat ride to Pelican Bar?
The boat ride lasts about an hour each way, providing a scenic journey over the water to the iconic bar.

What should I bring?
Bring bathing gear, a towel, sunblock, comfortable footwear, and money for extras or gratuities.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel for free up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is the tour family-friendly?
It’s not recommended for small children or guests with mobility issues, mainly due to outdoor activities and boat transfers.

What is the start time?
The tour begins at 6:30 am, so be prepared for an early start that allows a full day of exploring.

How big are the groups?
This is a private tour for up to 7 people, offering a more intimate experience than typical group excursions.

If you’re looking for an authentic, well-paced Jamaican adventure that combines culture, nature, and a bit of fun, this private tour covers all those bases. It’s especially worth considering if you want a personalized experience and are okay with a full, active day.