Black River Safari Cruise
Black River, Jamaica

In the community of Black River, travelers enjoy the Black River Safari Cruise, a popular day trip for vacationers looking for a little respite from sun and sand. The waters here are home to snook and tarpon, some reaching as large as 200 pounds. Spear fishermen, using a snorkel, mask and speargun, swim in the dark river (its waters stained by peat deposits) to bring in the day's catch. The fisherman's canoes are hand-hewn and burned out using a generations-old technique. Among their catch are tiny brine shrimp, sold by women in the St. Elizabeth parish along the roadside. Highly salted and spiced, these are a popular snack with locals and visitors.

But the biggest attraction on the Black River are the crocodiles. Once hunted, these crocodiles are now protected but still remain wary. These reptiles can live as long as 100 years, so long that some have become known by local residents.

This tour is also good for birders who see a variety of species on the cruise.