Initially was super stoked for a catamaran ride to...

Initially was super stoked for a catamaran ride to Dunn's River Falls and the ascent to the top. Unfortunately was left rather disappointed. The ride to the catamaran was fine and driver was friendly. Once we got there we were herded onto a catamaran and took off. The ride to Dunns River was pleasant. The staff did well to prepare everyone for what we were about to do and were all pretty friendly and enthusiastic.

Right as you step off there are a few stands with people trying to sell you stuff. Some were a little more aggressive than others. The guides grouped people together and then started to get us HYPED as we waited our turn to ascend. Unfortunately it felt kind of rushed and crowded. We were herded like cattle up the falls and stopped a few times for some cliche pictures (all while holding hands with each other as others randomly joined in our line.) No real time to enjoy the falls and just appreciate your surroundings. The focus was more so on getting all the pictures and a video to try to sell you at the end. Not on overall, actual experience.

Once you get to the top you pretty much get herded off the falls quickly to make sure the groups behind you can keep coming. You walk back down the stairs to the beach and back onto your catamaran. We "snorkeled" right where we docked for the falls hike. The water was cold and dark and murky and I didn't see any major living coral reef or ANY fish of any kind. Highly disappointed in that. The description states the captain would choose a spot to snorkel based on days conditions. Well-our location sucked. It felt like they just wanted to get it over with and get going with their day. There was no "picturesque" lagoon to swim in of any kind. Or any time to really enjoy anything.

The ride back was when the "party" started. Rum punch and red stripe was flowing. The "rum" punch tasted more like fruit punch. The music was like a bad 90's party mixed with some honky tonk and random rock hits. Kind of like they were trying to emulate what an American party would be like. I was hoping to get some authentic Jamaican jams and get some more cultural experience. The staff did great engaging people and getting people to dance and loosen up though.

*****songs
YMCA
Wagon Wheel
Don't Stop Believing
Save a Horse Ride a Cowboy
Shout
Back in Black

Once we got back we went to Margaritaville where you had an option of Jerk chicken or vegetables with beans and rice. Drinks are NOT included at lunch so if you're going to want to keep the party going have some money with you. Theres a beach to swim at and a little swim up bar pool with a water slide going over top the bar. The food was good as well as the staff at the restaurant, where they had a DJ playing some good reggae and dancehall hits.

Overall- Decent time just not exactly what I expected or hoped for based on was the description was. It was just a rushed and cattle herding vibe that wasn't what most of Jamaica feels like. The staff was very professional and friendly and don't want to take away from them.