This tour takes you through one of the most popular towns on the Island. Runaway Bay is naturally beautiful and is certainly one of the most scenic areas in Jamaica. It sits between the beautiful, crisp coastline to one side and the lush green mountains to the other. There is much debate as to how the town of Runaway Bay got its name. some people believe it got the name because that is where the last batch of Spanish soldiers ran away from when they were retreating from the attacking British Troops lead by Governor Ysassi right after the 1655 British invasion of Jamaica, while other argue that it was the point from which the Slaves from inland plantations used as an escape route to runaway to Cuba. Get your cameras ready to go as you make your way through this area.The town of Discovery Bay is where you will find Columbus Park. It was originally named Puerto Seco “Dry Harbour” by Christopher Columbus in 1494 when he and his men landed on the Island. It is said that could not find fresh water to drink. They later found fresh water in another area about 5 miles west of the town. The water was so good that they named the location where it was found Rio Bueno (“Good River”). However, the town of Puerto Seco was later renamed in 1947 to Discovery Bay because Discovery Bay is where the Spanish, lead by Christopher Columbus landed when they invaded the Island on May 4, 1494. There is a park with several old relics and artifacts on display. There will be a brief stop to take photos and capture the rich history of this historic town.
River Rapid Adventure
Your friendly and professional guide will meet you in the lobby of your Montego Bay hotel/pickup point and get you prepared for an electrifying day. The ride to the Rio Bueno River takes you along the north coast and before you know it you are there!
As you enter the meeting area, you are greeted by one of the resident tour guides who will do your orientation. After checking in and putting on your safety gear, you will follow your guide across the Irie Bridge and along the jungle trail, leading you to the river launch point.
There is enough time to participate in 2 of the activities from the 4 available activities offered at the property. Activity cost is not included so take cash with you. The cost to do each activity is US$40 per person for each activity.
River Tubing
With the river currents carrying you through the rainforest, you will sit back and relax while admiring the scenery of the surrounding landscape. Each lazy section of the river is followed by exciting class 2 rapids, where you can enjoy the faster pace of floating over splashing white water. There is a stop along the way for a chance to swim and try out the rope swing. Minimum age: 8 years Maximum weight: 260 pounds
River Rafting
With 4-6 passengers in the raft you will use team work to make it down the rapids of the river while your guide steers the entire time. Navigate through exciting class 1 and class 2 rapids and relax through some of the calmer spots. There will be stops so that you can swim in the cool water or swing from the rope swing. Minimum age: 5 years Maximum weight: 280 pounds
River Kayaking
Paddle downstream as you and a partner kayak through class 2 rapids and scenic river pools. You will pass under an old stone bridge where the rapids decrease as the river flows into the Caribbean Sea. Minimum age: 12 years. Maximum weight: 400 pounds per kayak
White River Boarding
Perfect for thrill-seekers who want to experience a unique way to navigate the river. Similar to a boogie board, your river board allows you to lie on your stomach as you surf down the class 2 rapids steering with your arms and legs. Half-way through the ride the group will stop for a break and a swim with the rope swing. Minimum age: 12 years. Maximum weight: 280 pounds
All of the river activities takes you right into the ocean and ends at the beautiful white sand Bengal Beach where you will have lunch (additional cost), enjoy a refreshing drink and take a dip in sea. After about 1 hour at the beach, you will be taken back to your Montego Bay hotel/pickup point.
