By: Lesa Caden, Certified Travel Agent & Director of Employee Development
Upon arrival at the Miami airport, we were greeted by Carnival with an expedited check-in process for boarding. Carnival coordinated checking in luggage, processing our onboard ID and shuttling us to the ship for a small fee. I would suggest this can be arranged round trip for an easy transition.
The ship, Carnival Vista, is large, bold and beautiful. It launched in May 1, 2016 and it’s the newest Carnival ship in the fleet. It will soon be home to Galveston in 2018.
Once you have embarked the ship, the FUN Caribbean cruise with Carnival begins. You are immediately wowed by the images of the onboard activities from the Waterworks Water Park, Skycourse, Sportsquare, Fitness area to the Skyride – all include!
Day 1
It was cold and breezy! One process I greatly appreciated was the mustering – it was fast and efficient. Once we the ship sailed away we attended a Welcome Aboard Cocktail Reception hosted by Carnival in the Liquid Lounge. Dinner was at the Cucina Del Capitano specialty restaurant. The restaurant is a beautifully decorated restaurant that offers up a family dining with warm wood oak tables, black and white photos of the captains and elegant cuisine with a tasty dessert that melts in your mouth.
Related: Low Prices On Carnival Cruises With AffordableTours.com!
Day 2
Another breezy, cold and choppy day at sea. The morning started off with a presentation by Adolfo Perez, VP of Sales, Carnival Cruises. He’s celebrating 35 years with Carnival – what a milestone. His presentation was lovely. He talked about his family roots, how they migrated from Cuba to America and how he got established with Carnival at 16 years old. He also discussed the innovative ways to grow the Carnival brand. After the morning session, it was off to eat pizza, select my excursion for Jamaica and enjoy an onboard IMAX Theatre experience! We viewed the National Parks Adventure as narrated by Robert Redford.
Day 3
So excited to be in Ocho Rios, Jamaica. The excursion we selected was the Bamboo Bach Club VIP Package. We were looking forward to all the services and amenities offered at Bamboo Beach Club and receiving extra special VIP treatment, Jamaican style. Then we hear, Dear Carnival Guest – I’m sorry to say that due to strong winds and high seas swells that would make our docking unsafe, we will be cancelling our port of call at Ocho Rios today – NO Jamaica. The ship continued on sailing to Grand Cayman, another day at sea.
So, this is the day we’ll relax – read, sit by the pool and enjoy the warmer weather. Or perhaps further explore the ship. Let’s see what’s in the library where you can teach yourself German or French in seven days, play a board game or just relax in the beautiful chairs located in the Havana Club.
When not exploring the ship, it’s a nice treat to sit at the adult only Serenity area. You need to get there early especially on a day at sea as these hot spots are prime locations for those who want a child free zone. You have to be 21 and above to enjoy the Serenity retreat space while on the ship.
Day 4
The weather was beautiful and we were able to make port in Grand Cayman! We opted not to take an excursion but rather to eat the local cuisine and shop. It was an enjoyable day followed by a lovely evening in the dining room and at the comedy club. The dining room quite honestly was my favorite part of the day. I love the experience, the food, the drink the pampering.
The Punchline Comedy Club catered to the young and old. Check your time slot as these comedians do not hold back. On your way to the club, check the new way your ship photos are displayed via a high definition photo wall!
Day 5
We’re going to seize the day in Cozumel! The sun is out, it’s a beautiful day and we’re ready to eat chips and guacamole in Mexico. While sipping on a beer and lounging under palm trees, you can see the ship from a distance, it’s a great view and we have nothing to do.
Once we’re back onboard the ship and settled, we decide to ride the Skyride. What’s the Skyride you ask? It’s an opportunity to safely risk your life on a bicycle ride in the sky. It’s an enclosed container high above the decks of the ship in which you cycle on a track to view the ocean and lido deck, while the sea breeze blows in your face and your heart palpates at a very rapid rate. All in all, the entire course is only 2 minutes or less. I’ll admit, once I got off, I wanted to ride it again but needed to wait until my knees stopped shaking and the line diminished. It’s a very long line.
Related: Get A Great Deal On Your Next Carnival Cruise!
The afternoon was spent enjoying the Colorful World of Peter Max at the Art Show in the Library. As seen on everything from album covers to airplanes, art from this creative genius known as “America’s Painter Laureate”. It was fun and time well spent.
Day 6
Last day at sea to just relax, have coffee on the balcony, lounge by the pool and indulge again in pizza and ice cream. It’s also an opportunity to stock up on those 2 for $20 destination t-shirt for friends and family. If you want to go to the IMAX, it’s a great day to do it, as their showing La La Land!
Or you can capture your story by purchasing photos from your trip, so many decisions to be made. Either way, it’s time to reflect on a great trip aboard the Carnival Vista!
Day 7
Debarkation day, always so sad to say goodbye to a wonderful Caribbean Cruise with Carnival trip. The Carnival Vista, it’s a ship for everyone!
Lesa Caden
Certified Travel Agent
Director of Employee Development
E-mail: [email protected]
Toll Free: 1-800-935-2620 Ext: 644
Direct: 281-269-6644