The key to making the most of brief port calls is to plan ahead. Check out the cruise line's suggested activities and read guidebooks to become familiar with local customs, history, transportation, and activities. What you do when in port depends upon the the time of year and your interests.
Most ships offer shore excursions to popular sights.
Excursions may include tours of museums, historical sites, parks, natural wonders, or shopping areas. If you don't want a formal tour, you can hire a taxi or rent transportation and strike out on your own. Golf, tennis, windsurfing, scuba diving, snorkeling, and other recreational activities are available in many ports of call. The cruise line will have port lectures detailing the various tours, shops, and attractions in each port. When deciding whether to book a tour, look carefully at the description to ensure that it meets your interests.