Cruising is finally back and my cruise plans are set for September. I will be sailing a 4 night Bahamas cruise on the Mariner of the Seas from Royal Caribbean in a balcony stateroom. I have never had a balcony on Royal Caribbean so that will be exciting.
My last cruise was in January of 2020 but most importantly, it has been over 15 months since cruise ships have welcomed aboard guest and the time is finally here. There are several things I am looking forward to when I cruise again but here are six of them.
1 Boarding the Ship
Getting on board a ship especially for the first time on that ship for me is exciting. The crew welcoming you aboard, that first drink and all the energy on board sets me in vacation mode immediately.
2 Breakfast On Deck
One of my favorite meals on board is breakfast and sitting outside on deck enjoying the ocean view or a view of the port is amazing. Some eggs, a waffle and some coffee and I am all set.
3 Sea Days
Sleeping in and not being in a rush to get off the ship is always welcome. Get up, go grab that breakfast then slowly make my way to a deck chair, preferably somewhere somewhat quiet. Hit the waterslides. Later take part in some trivia and grab a snack from the coffee shop. I love the milkshakes from the Java Blue Cafe on Carnival. Later maybe a nap before dinner. Nothing in land will match it.
4 Food
Like I said, I love breakfast on board but the lunch, dinner and late night snacks are pretty good too. Whether it be a burger from Gus Burgers for lunch on Carnival or a slice of pizza late night at Sorrentos on Royal Caribbean, its all good.
5 Entertainment
The entrainment on the ship sometimes can be hit or miss but I always find something I enjoy. Could be the 80s party, the live bands in the bars or along the promenade, the stage shows or just simply listening to music in the atrium. Always find something in the evening to enjoy.
6 Sunrise and Sunset
At least one of the days I will get up early enough to catch the sunrise over the ocean or the port of call. Its usually pretty quiet and something I do not see at home very often, at least in the same way.
Heading out on deck before and after dinner to catch the sun dropping below the horizon is amazing. I have never caught the green flash but seen video of people catching it. I have seen plenty of beautiful sunsets but in the middle of the ocean is something special.
I have a few months to go but I am counting down. For now, I will enjoy the photos and videos of people are part of the restart of cruising.
Mike Miller
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