I’m trying to settle the long standing debate with people who enjoy cruises.  Which is better the Port days or the Sea Days???

Some people say that they enjoy the time in ports exploring, I do, but I don’t think the days are long enough to really experience all that the islands have to offer.   Which is why I have to cast my vote for the Sea Days!

The ship offers so much to its passengers, and the sea day is really the only time you have to take advantage of the fabulous programming.  Still other people disagree and say that the sea days are boring and offer nothing  to do, I beg to differ, If your sea day Is boring you, you may be on the wrong cruise line, or perhaps a cruise vacation just isn’t for you.  

Rock Climbing wall:

Rock walls have become increasingly popular, and all of the royal Caribbean Ships are now outfitted with a wall on the backside of their funnel, where Guests are welcome to work on their climbing skills with an experienced instructor.  First timer or experienced climber, all of the equipment is included, and there are challenges for every level.  If you prefer a one on one beginners lesson, those are also available, free of charge, by appointment.  

Dance Lessons:

I am not sure this is on my list of things to do so much as I wanted to tell everyone it is available.  Royal Caribbean, offers a variety of dance classes where Guests have the opportunity to take salsa, swing and hip-hop lessons, line dancing, as well as elegant waltz and tango lessons. The lessons are designed for all experience levels, so anyone can participate. Once you have the moves down, every bar and lounge offers different nightly themed entertainment where you can practice.  

The Casino:

I have to admit I have a new found love for casinos, I recently learned to play Blackjack and have so much fun doing it now, so while I was never interested in the casino on a ship before, I am excite to sit down and play this time.  Its also nice to know there are instructors on board to help me learn a new game or review the rules with me.   Tournaments are scheduled though out each cruise, so if you have an interest, check the cruise compass for details. 

Cooking Classes and Tastings

I love cooking and eating and tasting, and I love to know why wines are pair with food and the logic behind those pairings.  The recent Addition of Chef’s table dinners and wine tastings to the Royal Caribbean Programming line up has me really excited to cruise as well as to learn about new dishes and wines. 

BINGO!

It’s self explanatory, and everyone wants to play – so it’s definitely on my list.  As a Bonus, they gave out some great prizes last time I cruised, including another cruise! 

Fitness Programs:


With so much food and so many food related activities, I also am very excited to take advantage of the new ship shape gym and spa onboard. 

A cruise ship is just the kind of place where a body can pile on the pounds – Fortunately, Voyager, is equipped with fully functional state of the art gym.   There are even personal trainers on board so I might be able to pick up a few tips while on board. Voyager also has a running circuits marked out around the upper deck. Through out the day there are also several fitness classes, with an instructor, such as Pilates,  yoga and spin, that you can participate in. 

With so much to do on the ship, I know I will be overwhelmed, but I have the feeling, I’m just going to dive right in, and when I get tired there is always the stand by, cocktail at the pool to relax.

So which is... Port Day, or Sea Day?  And What is your favorite thing to do on the ship?  We'd love to know!

Now that the holidays are upon us, the time has come for me to start counting down the days to my next adventure. 

With 30-days before we sail, I figured now would not only be a good time to start blogging about the trip, but also to start resolve, to provide our friends and clients with a more consistent stream of information, ideas, photos and spotlights on destinations.  

With that said, On December 24th, 2011, I will be sailing on Royal Caribbean’s Voyager of the Seas.  Leaving from New Orleans, LA ~ with ports of call in Cozumel, Grand Cayman and Falmouth, Jamaica

Voyager of the seas is considered a mega ship, the likes of which I have sailed on before, however this time I am excited to be taking a first time cruiser with me.  (I am sure he will share his perspective of the whole trip in a later blog).  But for those of you that have not cruised before, or are thinking about a cruise on a mega ship,  here is a little information on Voyager of the Seas.

Completed in 1999, she is one the namesake of the voyager class of ships.  Accommodating 3114,  she weighs in at 137,276 gross tons and is 1,020 feet long with a beam of 156 Ft.  

The ships boosts 2 major pool areas, an adult solarium with a retracting roof, and the main pool deck, both equipped with bars and cocktail service, to satisfy thirst.    There are several dining options onboard, including a buffet, sushi bar, and pizza and sandwich shop.  Portofino, the sociality restaurant is available with reservations and a small service fee, but the main dining room boasts two traditional seatings, where Guests are assigned a meal time, a wait staff and a table.  Each meal is 5 expertly served courses, usually with a themed menu such as Italian, Caribbean or seafood. 

Commonly referred to as a floating hotel, voyager has a rock climbing wall, casino and an ice skating rink listed as some of her many amenities.  Voyager also boasts it’s awarding winning Royal Promenade, which features world class lounges, bars and light dining options, as well as shops and entertainment.  
With all of the traditions of crusings, such as the midnight buffet, the opulent theather shows and the outstanding drinks, programming and entertainment, I wonder what the holidays will bring to the ship.  The addition of Christmas dinner and a New Years Party, I am sure will be something to talk about.

I am really excited to be able to share the trip with you – in hopes that it will evoke some new ideas for your future vacations