Destination overviewWe can’t wait to see Cartagena with all it’s historical sites, cobbled walkways, old churches and plazas, cafés, carriages drawn by horses and Colombian coffee, coconut rice and plantains.
There's the Dutch speaking islands of Aruba and Curacao for water sports, and a quick look at Arikok National Park in Aruba and exploration of the historical sites of Curacao. We are looking forward to feel the crystal clear water of Aruba and to take photos of the colorful green, pick and yellow buildings in Willemstad.
Our friend Jackie’s mom came visiting last month from St. Maarten. We found out, she owns a taxi in St. Maarten. That’s the way retirees get their passive income. She delightfully said yes to our request and pre-arranged for her driver to be our guide for the day, sightseeing in the Dutch and French sides of St. Maarten.
The last island to hop onto is St. Thomas, one of the U.S. Virgin Islands. More than a million cruise passengers visit this harbor every single year. I want to see a piece of this paradise from the eyes of regular cruisers.
St. Thomas has a reputation as a shopping paradise and is surrounded by world-class duty free shops. We will probably try the local delicacies of Salt Fish and Dovepork.
How many times have we cruised? This is the third cruising experience and second time with Norwegian. The first was last year with Norwegian Star.
Why Norwegian?
Free style cruising allows you to dine whenever and wherever you want. You can dress casually in all the dining rooms. Dress up or dress down concept is cool for teens and adults alike. You could choose main dining rooms, fine dining (pay extra), buffet or 24 hour room service.
Why October?
It’s the beginning of Norwegian cruises to Southern Caribbean.
The itinerary:
Wednesday: Leaving Miami and cruise for two days
Thursday, Friday: At sea
Saturday: Arrive Cartagena (Colombia) at 7 am and sail off again at 3 pm.
Sunday: Arrive in Oranjestad (Aruba) at 1 pm and leave at 8 pm.
Monday: The next stop is Willemstad (Curacao) arriving at 8 am and leaving 5 pm.
Tuesday: All day at sea.
Wednesday: Arriving at Philipsburg (St. Maarten) at 8 am and leaving at 5 pm.
Thursday: The last stop is St. Thomas (US Virgin Islands) arriving at 8 am and leaving at 5 pm.
Friday and Saturday: At Sea.
Sunday: Arrive in Miami at 8 am.
The Norwegian Sun:
The Sun has 14 dining options, 10 bars and lounges, spa, library, pool, fitness center, jogging track, wireless Internet (extra fee) and more.
The ship specifications:
Top of Form
Bottom of Form
• Passenger Capacity: 1,936 (double occupancy)
• Gross Register Tonnage: 78,309
• Overall Length: 848 feet
• Max Beam: 105 feet
• Draft: 26 feet
• Engines: Diesel Electric (Six diesel generators)
• Cruise Speed: 21 knots
• Crew: 953
Photo credit: Norwegian Cruise Line.
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Never been on a cruise before… about time methinks! This looks cool!!