Is it possible that Falmouth Jamaica Port may become the most popular place to visit in the future? It is rumored that due to the new port that opened early 2011, this small town may start getting the recognition it deserves. Falmouth is located 18 miles to the east of Montego Bay and although it has been often overlooked in the past, it really is the best-preserved Georgian town in the Caribbean.
History
While the new Falmouth Jamaica Port is certainly putting the area on the map, this is an old, historic and culturally-rich town. Founded in 1769 by Thomas Reid, Falmouth played an important role in Jamaica’s development when they were the leading sugar supplier in the world.
Falmouth was home to almost 100 plantations to manufacture both sugar and rum. This was a wealthy town with a nice mix of races and professionals. The port was also at the core of the slave trade and on any give day, you could see 30 ships delivering slaves in inhumane conditions from Africa.
After the slave emancipation, the city’s fortune drastically declined. Due to this reduced need for development, many early buildings and unique homes were abandoned and left standing. Houses continued to be built even though there was little commercial advancement and this is what makes the town so special to visit. The contrast of old and new architecture side by side is not a site often seen these days.
The New Falmouth Jamaica Port
After many construction delays, the new and highly welcome Falmouth Jamaica Port has finally opened for business. The $180 million project was the result of a partnership between Royal Caribbean International and Port Authority of Jamaica. The development sits neatly between Montego Bay and Ocho Rios, hoping to bring numbers for cruise ship passengers back up over one million where they have been in the past and should be.
Opening day was a huge event and Jamaicans did what they do best, celebrated! Schools were closed and reggae star Shaggy was here to perform along with a marching band as Oasis of the Seas, Royal Caribbean’s new giant ship was the first to make an arrival at the Falmouth Jamaica Port.
Things to Do
When you step off the ship at Falmouth Jamaica Port, you’re literally transported back in time in this eclectic town. Despite its simplicity, there are many things to do and see here. Not only that, you’re in a central location to experience all that Montego Bay and Ocho Rios have to offer.
One thing you certainly do not want to miss is a stroll through the historic district that boasts 19th century Georgian architecture. Some buildings even display unique gingerbread woodwork you won’t find many places. From plantation complexes to mansions to tiny houses, you’ll instantly get an appreciation for the area.
- Shopping – Falmouth Jamaica Port is near Water Square, home to local craft work and plenty of souvenirs. You’ll find native gifts and produce you won’t find elsewhere.
- Cuisine – There are more than 300 jerk recipes cooked by locals here from lobster to shrimp and pork to chicken. You’ll also find plenty of refreshing fruits and local desserts.
- Appleton Estate – Ever wonder how rum is made? Take a drive to Appleton Estate and sample wet sugar along with various aged rums.
- Good Hope Great House – Built in the 1700s, this Great House has been entirely restored. It offers views of the Cockpit Mountains and Queen of Spain Valley. There’s even a pottery house here to purchase authentic carvings and art.
- Martha Brae River – The gondolas of Venice have nothing on Jamaica’s 30-ft bamboo rafts. Sit back in a two-seated raft while your captain guides you raft through the island’s tropical scenery.
Falmouth Jamaica Port is a welcome addition to the island as locals look forward to sharing the natural beauty of the area with their guests. The unit of currency is the Jamaican dollar however, US dollars, credit cards and traveler’s checks are widely accepted.