Cruise Diva's CRUISE
DIARY
~ Eastern Caribbean Enchantment ~
 |
|
Enchantment
of the Seas—Docked
in St. Maarten |
St.
Maarten
Docking in St. Maarten was a unique experience for those of us who hadn't arrived by ship for
some years. When compared
to tendering ashore in the past, the new pier is a welcome convenience. We walked ashore and faced
transportation choices — either the water taxi
($5 per person round trip) or a taxi/van ($3 per person each way). We
opted for the air conditioned taxi, which dropped us off downtown.
We're
typical women so shopping was naturally a top priority, but first some
of us made our way
to "Everyt'ings Cool" for refreshments and access to the
beach, while others set out on a ship's tour. After meeting up with
the excursioner-goers, our shopping frenzy began—St. Maarten had the
best bargains on our itinerary for alcohol and jewelry. A stop for
refreshments at the Guavaberry Hut was a must on our way back to the
ship.
A late
lunch in the Solarium (pizza, juicy burgers, and hot, crispy fries)
kept Miriam and I going until it was time to dress for the Crown and
Anchor Society "Welcome Back" party in the Carousel Lounge.
Captain Kjonso was a spirited host and had us in stitches with his
humorous description of how, as a stockholder, he now "owns"
a toilet and hopes to acquire an entire bathroom by the time he
retires.
After
another satisfying dinner, we once again adjourned to the Champagne
Bar to meet friends. By this time, the Champagne Bar was our special
meeting place and Jimmie and Maria treated us like the most special
guests on board, greeting us by name and preparing our favorite
beverages to perfection.
St. Thomas
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|
For
quiet relaxation... the Enchantment of the Seas' serene library
|
The plan was to take the
ferry to St. John for snorkeling. Most of our group met at the gangway
after all passengers presented identification and the Enchantment of
the Seas was cleared by Immigration officials.
Unfortunately, I had
twisted my sprained ankle again and couldn't join the gang.
Fortunately, the spa offered a "port day special" and I
enjoyed a fantastic morning of pampering. I chose an Aroma Spa Ocean
Wrap and wasn't disappointed—in
fact, it was the best hour and a half I've ever spent in any ship's
spa and it was discounted—what
a treat! I left relaxed and in a revitalized mood that lasted
throughout the rest of the cruise. Feeling good, I made my way ashore
after a light lunch to browse a bit through the shops at Havensight.
With
heightened security, lines were rather long for re-boarding the ship
in late afternoon. We four roomies shared another special sailaway and
sunset, followed by dinner with more members of our group. It was hard
to believe we hadn't known one another all our lives—we were so
comfortable together. Tomorrow we'll share a special "Enchanted
Tiara" photo op before our second formal night.
Next -> A
Day at Sea & a Port Call in Nassau
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Caribbean Enchantment Cruise Diary Index
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Courtesy of Royal Caribbean International & Author's Collection
