Frequently Asked Questions

A Smarty Ports guide is a practical, self-guided eBook for a specific cruise port. Each guide covers where to go, how to get there independently, what things actually cost, and the best local spots, all based on firsthand research by real cruisers. They are designed to replace expensive shore excursions with a better, cheaper experience you plan yourself.

Every guide includes: step-by-step self-guided itineraries timed to your ship's schedule, terminal-specific logistics, transportation strategy for getting around independently, local food and culture worth knowing, safety tips, and what to avoid. Guides intentionally leave out specific restaurant names, tour operators, and exact prices, since those change often. Instead, each guide links directly to current, vetted picks on smartyports.com, updated independently of the book.

Each guide gives you the framework: timing, logistics, and what to expect from every category of activity. For current, specific picks, which excursion operator, which beach club, and current pricing, every guide includes a direct link to a dedicated page on smartyports.com for that port. Those pages are updated independently of the book, so recommendations stay current even as vendors and prices change.

We research every guide with in-person visits and update them regularly. That said, port conditions, prices, and transportation options can change, we always recommend verifying key details before your sailing. If you spot something outdated, please let us know via the contact page and we will review it promptly.

Smarty Ports is fully independent. We are not sponsored by, affiliated with, or paid by any cruise line, and no cruise line or tour operator can pay to be included in a guide or influence a recommendation. Some booking links on the vetted-picks pages linked from inside each guide are affiliate links: if you book through them, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. We only list excursions and providers we have personally used or thoroughly vetted, regardless of whether a link is an affiliate link.

No Smarty Ports guides are available for purchase yet. The first guide, Cozumel, is currently being written and is planned for release on Amazon Kindle after writing and editing are complete.

No Kindle device will be required. After publication, the guide can be purchased through Amazon and read on supported smartphones, tablets, and computers using the Kindle app.

That is the plan. The guide is being designed to remain readable in the Kindle app after it has been downloaded to a device. Links to current web updates or third-party websites will still require internet access.

Pricing has not been announced. When the Cozumel guide is published, its current price will be shown on its Amazon listing.

There are no Smarty Ports purchases to refund yet. Once a guide is published on Amazon Kindle, purchases and any eligible refunds will be handled under Amazon's current policies.

Plan to download it before sailing so you have time to read it and make any necessary reservations. Offline availability will depend on downloading the Kindle ebook to your device in advance.

Most activities can be done without pre-booking, but some popular spots, especially beach clubs, may benefit from an advance reservation during peak cruise season. The guide will note where advance booking is recommended so you can plan accordingly.

Yes, with the right information and common sense. Every Smarty Ports guide includes a safety section specific to that port, covering which areas to stay in, what transportation is trustworthy, and what to be aware of. Millions of cruisers explore ports independently every year and have a wonderful experience.

Cozumel is the only guide currently in development. The Port Guides page shows other destinations being considered for the future, but no additional release dates have been announced.

There is no email signup or Amazon author page available yet. Check the Cozumel preview or Port Guides page for the current development status.