Ocho Rios, Saint Ann, Jamaica

OCHO RIOS : Overview

OVERVIEW

Ocho Rios, a popular destination in Jamaica for tourists, is home to beautiful beaches and a lush rain forest. The physically challenged traveler can easily visit for the day via cruise ship, as the port is equipped with a large dock capable of serving multiple cruise ships, or can stay longer at one of the all-inclusive resorts.

LANGUAGE

The official language of Jamaica is English.

CURRENCY

The official currency of Jamaica is the Jamaican dollar. US dollars are accepted in Jamaica.

QUICKLINKS

LOGISTICS: Air – Water – Ground
ACCOMMODATIONS: Hotels – Resorts
ENTERTAINMENT: Tours – Activities – Restaurants & Nightlife
EMERGENCY SERVICES: Hospitals – Medical Equipment
ABILITYTIPS: Precautions

OCHO RIOS : Logistics

AIR TRANSPORTATION/AIRPORT

Donald Sangster Airport, located in Montego Bay, offers convenient access to Ocho Rios. The airport terminal has two levels and there is an elevator inside near the arrivals corridor to access the second floor. For more information about wheelchair accessibility or other accessible services, contact your airlines for more information.

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CRUISE PORT

Ocho Rios has a large dock capable of accommodating multiple cruise ships at one time. The town is a short distance away from the cruise terminal, and is easily reached via paved walking path that follows the road.

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TAXI/SHUTTLE

“We docked in Ocho Rios in December 2011. Had previously found Ernest Turnbull and had him meet us at the port. My wife is in an electric wheelchair, and his van had a very wide detachable ramp on the back, which worked out fine. Ernest is very knowledgeable and friendly. He took us wherever we wanted to go, and recommended locations also. His e-mail is [email protected], and telephone is (876)844 9980. Cost was $200 for up to 4 people, but the van could hold a couple more. Payment is due when he meets you at the ship. We strongly recommend Ernest.” Dick & Nona, 12/20/2011

Maxi Tours: This company has a smaller full-size van with a rear entry lift. I was able to get in the van in my electric wheelchair without any problems and was very comfortable. We were even able to fit six passengers as well. Our driver was full of energy and sang reggae songs for most of our ride, encouraging us to sing along. The company does not have a website, but you can e-mail them here, or call them at 876-779-9211.

“Ocho Rios was one stop on a recent cruise. There was a taxi stand at the cruise port where a helpful dispatcher was able to call an us accessible taxi. We then negotiated a price for a private tour of the area. The taxi we used was from “Juta Tours” so you might also be able to prearrange something. The taxi had a hydraulic lift into the back and there was room for at least 4 or 5 more passengers.” Pam, 1/14/09

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RENTAL CAR (Wheelchair Van)

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OCHO RIOS : Accommodations

HOTELS

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LUXURY RESORTS

The Jewel Dunn’s River Resort: “The Jewel Dunn’s River Resort is a new Jamaican beach resort located mere moments from one of Jamaica’s top attractions, spectacular Dunn’s River Falls. We spent several days there at the Jewel, and had a great time.” Bill, 9/26/2011

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OCHO RIOS : Entertainment

SIGHTSEEING TOURS

“We docked in Ocho Rios in December 2011. Had previously found Ernest Turnbull and had him meet us at the port. My wife is in an electric wheelchair, and his van had a very wide detachable ramp on the back, which worked out fine. Ernest is very knowledgeable and friendly. He took us wherever we wanted to go, and recommended locations also. His e-mail is [email protected], and telephone is (876)844 9980. Cost was $200 for up to 4 people, but the van could hold a couple more. Payment is due when he meets you at the ship. We strongly recommend Ernest.” Dick & Nona, 12/20/2011

Maxi Tours: We used Maxi Tours to tour Ocho Rios, the nearby rainforest, Coyaba Gardens, and Dunn’s River Falls. As we stated above, the van was able to easily accommodate one power wheelchair and six passengers.

Tours by Solomon: Wheelchair accessible tours are provided by driver/tour guide Solomon. The vehicle is a Toyota mini van with a hydraulic ramp at the rear. The mini van can accomodate six people including the person who utilizes a wheel chair. The tours are custom tours, to fit each group of people. A general tour is 3hrs, which offers a small historic tour of Montego Bay, shopping and Highlights. Solomon also offers tours in Ocho Rios, from the pier.

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ACTIVITIES

Coyaba Gardens: Home to many plant specimens, the gardens are beautiful, and a great way to get a quick education about the many varieties of plants on Jamaica. We hired a docent at the grounds to guide us through the gardens and educate us about the plants. The gardens are mostly accessible. There is a section of path that has stairs, but there are alternative routes if you can’t ascend them (but you do need to back track).

Dunn’s River Falls: The falls are a popular attraction for visitors to Ocho Rios. There is a fee to enter the park, and unfortunately, the falls are not wheelchair accessible.

“There is a wheelchair accessible lookout platform near the top of the falls. No need to wait outfront. It is nicely shaded. Some pathways are fairly steep.” Ken, 4/19/11

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RESTAURANTS/NIGHTLIFE

Ocho Rios has an active nightlife. Because we visited on a cruise, we did not stay and visit any clubs or restaurants.

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OCHO RIOS : Emergency Services

MEDICAL SERVICES/HOSPITAL

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MEDICAL EQUIPMENT RENTALS

Independent Living: Based in Kingston, provides a variety of durable medical equipment for sale or for rent including scooters, lifts, and beds.

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OCHO RIOS : AbilityTips

PRECAUTIONS

Ocho Rios has few options for accessible transportation, so to make the most of your trip, make sure you plan ahead by making the proper reservations.

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