No one in our roll call has been able to check in. It seems to be a system failure.
I’m a bit nervous, I am anticipating a nightmare on the pier as 2,000 guests try to check in. We have to follow COVID protocols because we are going to Cartegena, which adds an extra layer of anxiety.
And what time are we supposed to show up, anyhow? We need to arrange transportation to the port.
Very aggravating.
First the excursion
Veragua Rainforest and Tortuguero Canals Experience
Embark on a naturalist expedition through the unspoiled tropical wilderness of Veragua Park. Fly through the rainforest canopy in an openair gondola. Explore the mysterious canals of the "Costa Rica Amazon" by jungle boat. Meet with experts to learn about deadly snakes, bizarre frogs, brilliant butterflies, and other jungle dwellers. Hike beneath the massive trees lining Victoria River. Spend the day immersed in and amazed by the incredible biodiversity of the Costa Rican jungle.This tour is provided by an operator that has been third-party certified to meet the Global Sustainable Tourism Council's Criteria for Tour Operators. Tour the rainforest of Veragua Park by air tram, jungle boat, and hiking on foot. See and learn about the rainforests inhabitants including snakes, frogs, monkeys, toucans, and other wildlife. Immerse yourself in the serene world of fluttering butterflies as you stroll through a butterfly garden.
And then, the specialty restaurants
So you’re supposed to be able to do on line check in 45 days before your cruise. That day has come and gone, but check in remains unavailable, with no explanation. My guess? They just changed all the COVID protocols … again. Now there are no requirements to test, no requirements to be vaccinated …unless …
And that “unless’ is the key. In order to get off the ship in Cartegena you have to either have proof of vaccination or test before you board the ship.
So, 32 days before the cruise, we still can’t check in.
And we have run into a couple of frustrating circumstances.
We haven’t booked a shore excursion for Costa Rica. The one we want was listed when we booked the cruise last year, but then it was removed from the website; it reappeared a few weeks ago, but you can’t reserve it yet. I’m guessing there’s an issue with the vendor.
And then we decided to take advantage of a deep discount and book specialty dining the first night of the cruise. We wanted Tuscan Grille, but it’s completely booked for that night. We can still get a discount if we book another night before we sail, but the savings won’t be as good. I think we’re going to book the second night of the cruise.
Still, I am starting to feel excited…
So the move up program gives you an opportunity to bid on a cabin in a class higher than the one you paid for. You’re told “the minimum bid for this class is $$” and you decide how much you want to bid. If your bid is accepted you move up to a cabin in that new class. You don’t get to choose the cabin, but you get an upgrade at a bargain rate.
This close to sailing, it’s easier for the cruise line to sell the cheapest cabins. So if you bid on a more expensive cabin and you move up, your less expensive cabin becomes available and can be sold to a last minute traveler.
We originally booked an ocean view cabin, and upgraded to a balcony when there was a price drop. We decided we didn’t need to move up, we’re quite content with the cabin we chose.
Grand Cayman
Explore the marine paradise of Cheeseburger Reef and the ghostly shipwrecks of theCaliandBalboaon board asemi-submarine. An expert narrator and fish-feeding divers make it a true adventure. Then, step aboard an air-conditioned bus for a memorable island drive along the West Bay peninsula. Driving along the famous Seven Mile Beach, one of the world’s most spectacular beaches, you will see the Governor’s Residence. A little further down, get off the bus and dip your toes in the powdery sands of Seven Mile Public Beach. Spend a few minutes taking wonderful photos of the turquoise blue waters and basking in the Caribbean sunshine. Continue driving into the residential area where you will see some traditional houses that were restored to their former glory. A brief stop to Hell- an area named for its unusual rock formations to complete your West Bay experience. Here you can take photos of the limestone formations and visit one of its gift shops for some souvenirs. As you head back towards downtown George Town, you will stumble upon a new blossoming community called Camana Bay. Here you can find big corporate offices, banks, retail shops, and restaurants. Your bus driver will talk you through the history and point where the attractions are on in this place. Continue driving into the residential area where you will see some traditional houses that were restored to their former glory.
Cartagena
Travel to Colombia's National Aviary, where you'll observe Colombia's diverse bird species. On your scenic drive to the aviary, admire views of Cartagena and the surrounding areas. Colombia is celebrated for having the highest bird diversity in the world. Over 1,900 species can be found here. The National Aviary offers an important sampling of this biodiversity. Explore the National Aviary's observation stations and habitats. See macaws, harpy eagles, tangaras, and macaque monkeys in the lush tropical forest aviary, featuring waterfalls and palm trees. Watch for ducks, cormorants, and pelicans in the mangrove aviary. In the coastline aviary, observe herons, doves, storks, and teals. In the desert station see cardinals, partridges, and mockingbirds. Discover owls, eagles, and the famous Andean condor in the Andean region habitat. After marveling at Colombia's incredible ecological treasures and biodiversity, sip a cup of Colombian coffee and enjoy your scenic drive back to the ship.
A cup holder that fits on my suitcase, a battery powered nightlight and a cruise lanyard to hold my ship card.
Journey into the heart of Cartagena on this comprehensive adventure to the city’s iconic landmarks. Begin with a visit to San Felipe de Barajas Fortress. This fortress, built in the 17th century, is the largest example of Spanish military engineering in South America. Next, browse the fascinating artisan stalls at Las Bóvedas Artisan Center, a former dungeon. Then, explore the Inquisition Palace, the old headquarters of the Court of the Holy Inquisition. Learn about the sentencing ceremonies that once took place in public while viewing examples of torture chambers and jails used during the period. Step back in time on a stroll through the narrow, cobblestoned streets of Cartagena’s lively old town, visiting Saint Peter Claver’s Sanctuary, boasting exquisite statues and old-world furniture. Finally, you will have some free time to explore on your own before returning to the ship.
