5 Day Eastern Caribbean Cruise

My friends Sonia, Debbie, Robin and I booked a 5 Day Eastern Caribbean cruise out of Miami, Florida heading to the Dominican Republic. I was a little disappointed boarding the Carnival Victory. It's a rather old ship and my last cruise was on a brand new ship. Such a difference. But we were on vacation and nothing was going to stop us from having a good time.

Our first day was a sea day so that meant spending the day at the pool. This ship was equipped with an adult only pool so at least we weren't flooded with kids. But as you can see from the photo, adults can be just as annoying.

Even though we didn't bring our prom dresses, we did dress up and join the crowds for formal night.

Most of the good entertainment seemed to be at the casino bar and lounge. Different bands would set up each hour and play songs from jazz to rock and roll.

Our second day we docked at Grand Turk in the Dominican Republic. I'm not much for shore excursions because most of the excursions are water related. I don't snorkel or enjoy lying on the beach. But I do like shopping and the ports are usually filled with many interesting shops. I did find Violet a Del Sol Minnie Mouse shirt and a pair of maracas - watch out Lola!

The next day we docked at Amber Cove in the Dominican Republic. Amber Cove is supposed to be Carnival's hottest new cruise place to visit. This was Carnival's first visit to the island in over 30 years.

And what were we surprised with? There were only 4 shops open and an open air bazaar. So disappointing. Plus the walk from the ship to the shops took about 15 minutes. I need to do more investigating before I plan these cruises. After we got back on the ship we heard how others had hired drivers to take them exploring which cost way less than the cost of the excursions. But I always wonder if the drivers will bring you back to the ship.

Our evening's entertainment was once again provided by our shipmates. Robin (in the purple mumu) was even asked to join the exclusive "mumu" club.

Our last day was at sea and full of pool and casino fun. That evening we went to "Vroom" - a musical journey through time and across genres, showcasing hits from Elvis

Elton John

and the Beatles (plus many more artists). It was a great show.

And each night our cabin steward left us the always famous towel animals. I can never figure out what this one is.

Departing a ship used to be the most boring, time consuming event of the whole vacation. But Carnival now offers a "walk off" service where you carry your own bags and just walk off the ship. The man at customs looked at my passport and waved me through. We flew out of the Miami airport and I was amazed at the stores in the airport, Victoria's Secret, Tommy Hilfiger, Michael Kors. I'm not sure if that's a testament to the quality of the airport or the delay of the airlines. Even though there were disappointments, the fun we had made up for it. We're already planning our cruise for next year.