from the “New York Times” February 20 2005:

….cruise lines “offer expensive shore excursions at prices that routinely reach several hundred dollars” Quoting “Econoguide cruises 2005” guidebook, the New York Times continues: “one of the best ways to save is by arranging your own shore excursions” and “in almost every situation whatever the cruise line is offering through the excursion desk you can improve on by making your own arrangements and you can do it for less money” it “can be downright cheap if you are splitting the cost among several people” with “more flexibility than a group tour”.

Rome Insight offer at competitive price elite cruise terminal private trips
Rome Insight prices are considerably lower than those offered at ship’s excursion desks for private excursions and are even competitive with those offered on the ship for group bus tours. Conducted in English, Rome Insight shore excursions, operated by sedans and minibuses, enjoy unrestricted access to city centres, where tour buses are not permitted, carrying passengers directly to monuments and sites. No tiring uncomfortable walks from and to distant parking places. In addition, Rome Insight qualified English speaking guides and pre-bookings at museums and galleries ensure admission ahead of time consuming ticket lines.