Last week, I went on a seven day cruise out of Miami, Florida to the Caribbean. I have been in that area on multiple cruises over the years. I booked this cruise before the information became public about the Coronavirus. I read all of the news updates before I went and also how the cruise line was handling the outbreak. I decided to go ahead and make the trip because the cruise line, MSC sent out multiple statements about their efforts to keep everyone safe.
One of the first bits of information was that boarding would be denied to anyone who appeared ill from a respiratory illness or whose temperature was 100.4 degrees Fahreheit or more. I recently had the regular flu and I wanted to be certain that my temperature was not elevated. I had been asymptomatic for at least 2 weeks but I wanted to make sure so I bought a new digital thermometer to take my temperature. All was well since my temperature was 98.5 degrees on several occasions. I also bought some cough medicine since I have exercise induced asthma and allergies which sometimes make me have an occasional dry cough.
My worries were for no reason because no one seemed to be alarmed or scared at the port. I had to fill out a questionnaire and submit to a thermal temperature scan and that was it. Is was much ado about nothing.
The first day was a sea day since our first stop from Miami was Montego Bay, Jamaica. I took photos with my cell phone as well as my Canon 80D. I do not pay for the ship's WIFI when I cruise because I think that it is an unneccessary expense. I would rather spend my money on other things. I usually rely on the free WIFI that can be obtained at various restaurants on the islands with a purchase.
I had a balcony which is always nice when approaching the islands. My first photo are shots of Montego Bay as we pulled into the port in Jamaica.
Approaching Montego Bay
The water is a deep blue color that looks like someone added food coloring to it. It is absolutely beautiful and sparkling clean.
These photographs are unedited and taken with my Canon 80D.
We took a shuttle to Margaritaville because they have good food, good drinks and crazy entertainment where they engage the audience. They were playing a game where you had to name the tune that the DJ was playing by just hearing a few notes. Some of the people were encouraged to come to the stage to sing the song that they guessed since they knew the lyrics.
The lady on stage guessed a country western song correctly and she sang and performed for the bar. She was excellent and it was obvious that she was used to singing in front of people. She reminded me of folks who really enjoy a good Karaoke bar.
The next stop on the cruise itinerary was in the Cayman Islands. We went to Georgetown. I have been there several times and there is a nice restaurant not too far from the port that sells wonderful fish tacos and cold beer for a reasonable cost. They also have free WIFI with a purchase. I usually go there whenever I visit Georgetown.
The restaurant has an open covered sitting area that is right on the water with a view of the cruise ships. I was on an MSC ship but there was also a Carnival ship in port at the same time as our ship.
The ship requires taking a small boat called a tender to get to the shore. I don't really enjoy getting on a tender because you have to wait in a line while the boat goes back and forth to the ship.
This is the Carnival ship docked in the water near my ship.
The next day was a sea day so I took advantage of the gym on board and got some exercise in addition to the walking that I was doing around the islands. I realized very quickly that I need to exercise more than I have been. The back of my legs burned like fire while I was riding the exercise bike for the first 6 minutes or so. I didn't stop though. I kept peddaling until the burning sensation stopped. Note to self, "Pull out your bicycle as soon as the weather gets warm."
The next stop was in Costa Maya, Mexico. This port did not meet my expectations. I thought that it was going to be a regular city in Mexico, but it wasn't. It was fine for people who wanted to shop, or go to the beach or on a tour, but I usually buy my tequila at a local Walmart or superstore and get some local food.
There was lots of shopping but I don't buy those things anymore. I save my money for traveling or to replenish things that I need back at home that are cheaper in the islands.
There was a leather goods shop that had some excellently crafted boots, purses, gun holsters, wallets, etc. The workmanship was incredible and the prices were reasonable. I just didn't need anymore boots or purses. The guy had a display on a bench that showed snake skin, python, eel, and various leathers. Back in the day, I would have broken on down and made a purchase on a credit card. Not this time, I complimented him on his wares and took a picture instead.
The last stop was on a private island that is owned by MSC. We were the only ones there and they had food, drinks and lounge chairs set up with music for us to enjoy all day long. That island is located in the Bahamas and is only 56 nautical miles from Miami.
Most of the employees from the ship in food services was available to us on the island. The food was great and plentiful. There were also soft drinks as well as alcohol. Beach blow up boats and umbrellas were available to rent if you wanted more.
I hope that you enjoyed my memories of my trip. I always enjoy looking at pictures of places that I have not been from the perspective of the photographer.
Enjoy your day!