We are getting really close to our cruise and David and I are SO excited!! I was looking at my calendar a few weeks ago and realized that, except for the cruise, every single weekend of mine is booked with a wedding until December 19th. So much for my “let’s make sure I have one weekend off a month” plan. It just happens by accident and next thing I know when I look at the “bigger picture” (re: whole month) I’ll notice that I booked every weekend. Oh well, this just means that we are really going to take advantage of our cruise and relax and have a good time before we have to come back to the real world.
We leave out of Galveston and our ports are Cozumel, Mexico, Grand Cayman, Cayman Islands and Montego Bay, Jamaica. David and I finally booked our excursions last night (Nothing like waiting until the last minute, right? I was actually shocked that nothing was completely booked up yet). Here is what we decided to do:
Cozumel, Mexico – Three Reef Snorkel by Boat
Carnival’s description of the excursion: “The sparkling waters of the Caribbean beckon with a colorful parade of tropical marine life on this Three Reef Snorkeling by Boat shore excursion.
A specialized snorkeling boat will take you to the first stop, Cardona Reef System. This reef has wonderful life and coral. Then go to Paradise Reef. a series of three reefs located about 200 yards from shore.
Paradise was one of Jacques Cousteau’s favorite dive sites. On the way, your trusty guides provide detailed snorkeling instructions and marine park rules. With life vest, fins and snorkeling mask firmly in place, you’re ready to get wet. Jump or ease in to the sea and float above green turtles, delicate coral patches, and schools of angel tangs and yellowtail.
After this head to the dazzling coral gardens at Dzul Ha reef. Relax after your excursion on the rooftop deck as your boat cuts foamy paths through the sea back to your Carnival cruise ship. Purchase a photo of yourself as a memento of your exciting Cozumel snorkeling tour.
Book the Three Reef Snorkeling by Boat tour today for an amazing underwater adventure on the world-renowned Cozumel coral reef. ”
Grand Cayman, Cayman Islands – Tiki Beach – Seven Mile Beach Getaway
Carnival’s description of the excursion: “Sometimes the most fun thing to do on your Carnival cruise is to do nothing but stretch out on a lounge chair on a white sand beach overlooking the sparkling turquoise water of the Caribbean Sea. The Tiki Beach – Seven Mile Beach Getaway is yours for the taking when your “Fun Ship” calls on George Town, capital of Grand Cayman Island.
Step aboard your air-conditioned motor coach for the drive to Tiki Beach on Seven Mile Beach. As you would expect, the new beach club features distinctive thatch roofs, bamboo furnishings, a full restaurant and bar, and a water sports center.
Find a comfortable lounge chair under the tropical sun or under the shade and enjoy the cooling tropical breeze. Then order your favorite cocktail from the bar. They offer a wide range of tropical drinks that you’ll find refreshing.
If you’d like to explore the length of the shoreline, the Watersports Centre rents kayaks. And if you prefer to see what the reef offshore has to offer in the way of colorful fish, ask to rent snorkeling gear. Or if you just want to lie back, ask for a beach float and let the sparkling Caribbean Sea rock you gently.
If you’ve found that fresh tropical air has worked up your appetite, the Tiki Club has a full-service restaurant where you may order from the a la carte menu. Seafood is always fresh and there are many Grand Cayman Island specialty dishes you may like to try.
When it’s time to return to your “Fun Ship,” the air-conditioned motor coach will take you to the cruise ship terminal at the pier.
So if there is nothing more inviting to you than a wonderful afternoon at one the most famous beaches in the world, book Tiki Beach – Seven Mile Getaway now. It’s a great way to add fun ashore to your fun afloat.”
Montego Bay, Jamaica – Dunn’s River Falls & Dolphin Cove in Ocho Rios
Carnival’s description of the excursion: “Enjoy a scenic ride through the lush Jamaican countryside en route to Ocho Rios and 2 of Jamaica’s premier attractions.
On this excursion you will:
- Visit Dunn’s River Falls and have the opportunity to climb this 600-foot waterfall.
- Be transported to Dolphin Cove, a beautiful private setting.
- Meet some of nature’s finest creatures such as dolphins, sharks, fascinating snakes and exotic birds.
- Enjoy the lush tropical jungle and beautiful beach with all the amenities.
- Have a wonderful Jamaican style buffet lunch served from the Dolphin Cove Grill.”
The first two excursions are expected to only take half a day, so I’m sure we will walk around and explore the ports after we get back from each one. Dunn’s River is expected to take the entire day, so no extra exploring in Jamaica. I think I’m looking forward to the Dunn’s River Falls the most. Hopefully when we get home we will have lots of photos to share!
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