I'm starting a new thread for those of us who will be sailing on the new inaugural date - November 8, 2008. Don't want people confused when they look for who will be on their sailing.
Hi.
My husband and I are sailing November 8th, 2008 on the new Ruby Princess and we are sure looking forward to it. We have been on the Carnival Glory 2 years ago and loved it. We had a hoot!!!
Hi.
My husband and I are sailing November 8th, 2008 on the new Ruby Princess and we are sure looking forward to it. We have been on the Carnival Glory 2 years ago and loved it. We had a hoot!!!
Hi and welcome. Mike and I salied on the Glory twice in the past and thought it was great. We are looking forward to sailing the Ruby Princess and meeting everybody. Closer to cruise date, we will set up a meet and greet for the cruise mates on the ship.
Hello Everyone. I'm so glad to see this thread. My husband and I are contemplating getting a balcony suite on the Ruby for its inaugural sail in Nov. Can you please let us know if you have been to the ports scheduled? We are thinking of taking a cruise on NCL Pearl which goes to Belize City and Roatan. Thanks for any info you can give us.
Hello Everyone: We're so glad to have found this forum. If anyone has been to Ocho Rios and Grand Caymans, can you tell us how they differ from port at Belize City and Roatan. Thanks so much.
My wonderful husband, Doug, and I (Barbara) just booked this cruise. It is our very first cruise and we are so excited to be going, especially on a brand new ship. So nice to know that no one has used our bathroom yet! Looking forward to meeting everyone. My travel agent, Paula, is a dream. Anyone who needs a travel agent must use her! Let me know if you want her number in Las Vegas. She said the only problem with an inaugural cruise is that the staff may be a little confused until they have time to work together as a team. Doug and I aren't anticipating any problems with this. I'd like to hear opinions regarding the Grand Caymans and Ocho Rios. Never been there.
My wonderful husband, Doug, and I (Barbara) just booked this cruise. It is our very first cruise and we are so excited to be going, especially on a brand new ship.
Welcome to our group. You will LOVE cruising. I have been to Grand Cayman, but not to Ocho Rios. You have to tender at Grand Cayman, but then a lot of stuff is within walking distance of the pier. You can also get a cab to give you a tour of the island or you can take one of the ship's excursions. There is a lot of good snorkeling at Grand Cayman.
Although we have cruised many times, this will be our first inaugural cruise. We are looking forward to this to find out if they do anything speical on a first cruise.
Not to worry, Princess uses start up teams chosen from other ships on each start up. Some of the folks from the Emerald Princess will be the crew on the Ruby Inaugural. These folks go from new ship to new ship so they know what needs to be done.
AIRPORT BUS SERVICE http://www.broward.org/
Broward County Transit = (BCT)
Links to interactive maps/schedules, fares and routs..
FORT LAUDERDALE/HOLLYWOOD INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT
(BCT) Route # 1 Fort Lauderdale/Hollywood International Airport. The bus stops on the ground level at Arrival Terminal #1, 2 and 3. Service is available 7 days a week including holidays
Sun Trolley does not operate at the airport. When you get to the route of operation for Sun Trolleys, Just wave to the Sun Trolley Driver, they will stop for you.
The Sun Trolley has a stop 1-block from Port Everglades North Enterance, at Convention Center....... This is two blocks from the Princess Pier. Walking distance. http://www.suntrolley.com/
Regular One-Way Fare $1.25
All day pass $3.25
10-ride pass $11.50 (expires on 10th ride).
WATER TAXI SERVICE http://www.watertaxi.com/FortLauderdale/FLLHome.Asp
(Effective May 5, 2008)
Regular All-Day Pass $13.00 Unlimited rides all day.
After 7pm Pass $ 7.00 Must be purchased on board after 7pm.
Web Site has complete datails on operations including Maps and stops.
1. Shooter's Waterfront Cafe,Taverna Opa, La Playa Intracoastal Beach
Club & Restaurant, Charley's Crab
2. Gallery One Galleria Mall
3. Seville Street (Beach Access) Sheraton Yankee Trader , Shula's On The Beach
4. Beach Place (Beach Access), Las Olas Marina , Hilton Fort Lauderdale Beach Resort, Marriott's Beach Place Towers & Beach Place Entertainment Complex.
5. Bahia Mar (Beach Access),Oasis Cafe, Bahia Cabana.
6. Hyatt Pier 66, & Grille 66 (Five star Restaurant)
7. Convention Center Campus, Broward County Convention Center,
Fort Lauderdale Grande Hotel & Yacht Club and Renaissance Hotel.
NOTE: This is three blocks from Princess Pier.
8. 15th Street Fisheries, Lauderdale Marina.
9. SE 9th Ave., Mango's Restaurant, Shops of Las Olas.
10. Downtowner Saloon .
11. Las Olas Riverfront, River House, SW 2nd St Bars & Clubs
Fort Lauderdale Information and Planner http://www.sunny.org/static/index.cfm?contentID=3
Get your FREE vacation planner, Go to above link for
Hotels, Restaurants, Tours, Entertainment, Maps and more.
Note: Go online and order the coolest map around!
Taxi Fares in Fort Lauderdale as of July 2008
All information is based on current availible web-sites and google maps.
Your cost may vary depending on all varible circumstances with traffic and street routes traveled.
Fuel Surcharge Add $1.00 per passenger
The fees for metered fares are as follows: $4.50 for the first 1/6 mile, (includes the $2.00 airport origination fee) and $.40 each additional 1/6 mile which equals $6.90 for the first mile and $2.40 for each additional mile. Waiting time is $.40 per minute.
Ft Lauderdale/Hollywood Int'l Airport To Port Everglades.
This is an approximate 11-minutes taxi ride to security gate. Around a $16.00 dollar taxi ride from Airport to Princess Pier.
The Sun Trolley for cruising around Port Everglades. They stop at Shopping Centers, Restaurants, Day Spa's, Bars.
Just wave to the Sun Trolley driver, they will stop for you, $1.25 per person per ride or day pass $3.25
Note: The private shuttle vans at the Airport and Port Everglades charge approximatly the same as taxi's, avoid them, you'll wait while they fill the entire van and load everybodys luggage, same when they unload, if your luggage is buried in the back of the shuttle van, you'll wait again for them to retrive your bags.
If your flight is in the last terminal, you'll wait again while they drop off everybody at the closer terminals.
Web-link at bottom are baggage COST that Airlines were charging, changes are expected, so check before you pack!
1-pound over the weight restriction of (50-lbs) on Delta, will cost $80.00, Oversized bags are $150.00
United charges $125.00 for being 1-lb over weight on first bag.
Look up your airlines charges and fee's, 1st bag, 2nd bag, over-weight bags and over-size bags.
Note: Your carry-on better meet the size & weight limits, the airline can remove it from carry-on and check it in as a second and or extra bag.
Make sure you meet the airline check-in requirements.
Luggage that does not meet the minumum check-in time may be loaded on another flight.
You can view aircraft and seating on the following web-site http://www.seatguru.com/
Airlines may change aircraft, you should always confirm seating, boarding gates and final departure time 24 hours before your flight directly with your airline and PRINT your boarding PASS the night before.
To name a few women's outlet stores at Sawgrass Mills:
Ann Taylor Factory Store, Anne Klein, Barneys New York Outlet, BCBGMAXAZRIA, bebe, Bon Worth (VF Outlet), Caché Outlet, Charlotte Russe, Erdos Cashmere, Escada Company Store, Feraud/Rosch, Juicy Couture, Kasper, Kenneth Cole Outlet Store, Nordstrom Rack, Lane Bryant Outlet, (VF Outlet)Liz Claiborne Outlet, Max Mara Outlet, Neiman Marcus Last Call,Ralph Lauren, St. John Company Store, United Colors of Benetton Factory Outlet, Valentino, Vertigo, Victoria's Secret & Lily of France
For Public transportationm use the Sun Trolley to get to the main Bus station. or get a transfer on the BCT = (Broward County Transit) http://www.broward.org/bct/riderinfo.htm
From Broward Central Terminal, take Routes # 22 to Route # 88 to Sawgrass Mills Mall
THE GALLERIA AT FORT LAUDERDALE
Around 15 minutes from Port Ever Glades
Easy access using the Sun Trolley
Welcome to The Galleria, two levels of shopping & restaurants in a mall setting. http://www.galleriamall-fl.com/
Go to the TOURISM link:
Galleria Welcome Card -- it's worth a free gift! Print the page on web site and present it at Galleria Guest Services located on the upper level near Dillard's to receive a coupon book with offers from many great Galleria stores.
Phone : (954) 564-1015
Shop & Play Package Includes:
1) Signature Galleria tote bag.
2) Complimentary Signature “Blue Martini” at the Galleria Blue Martini.
3) Complimentary Galleria’s $$$ Coupon Book filled with special offers.
The Rodeo Drive of Fort Lauderdale
(Las Olas Boulevard) Some of the best Restaurants in Fort Lauderdale
Around 10-minutes from Port Everglades. http://www.lasolasboulevard.com/new/dining.htm
Sun Trolley-Beaches and 17th Street (Route #40)
The Convention Center stop (Eisenhower Dr.) is about 2-blocks from The Ruby Princess Pier. http://www.suntrolley.com/maps/convention.html
Out Back Steak House @ 1801 SE 10th Ave. FT Lauderdale FL 33316
Phone (954) 523-5600 Call in reservation, this place gets packed on Sat. night http://www.outback.com/
Ship Wrecked Bar and Grill @1368 SE 17th St. Causeway FT. Lauderdale FL 33316
Phone (954) 524-7263 every ($1 domestic drafts $2 imports/micro brews all day day)http://shipwreckedinftlaud.com/menu/
Bistro Mezzaluna @ 741 SE 17th Street | Fort Lauderdale, Florida 33316
Phone (954) 522-9191 $$$$ http://bistromezzaluna.com/
South Port Raw Bar @ 1536 Cordova Road, Fort Lauderdale.
(Early Happy Hour Mon. - Fri. 4pm - 7pm)
(Late Night Happy Hour Sat. - Thur. 11pm - close
Featuring select oysters, shrimp, wings and drink specials)
(Download 10% discount online) Phone (954) 525-CLAM http://www.southportrawbar.com/index.phtml
R J Gators Bistro @ 1901 Cordova Rd. FT. Lauderdale, FL. 33316, restaurant may have changed name, same owner.
Phone (954)524-1458 http://www.rjgators.com/
They have complementry mirmosa's on Sunday's before noon with breakfest.
Giorgio's @ 1499 Southeast 17th Street Fort Lauderdale, FL 33316 Telephone: 954-767-8300 (Hotel delivery service provided)
Most pasta dishes around $11 (Located in same strip center as Toyko Sushi). http://allmenus.com/menus/16044/#Gio...ection-%20Fish
Ocho R*os (also known by the nickname Ochie), Spanish for Eight Rivers, is a town on the northern coast of Jamaica, located in the parish of Saint Ann. It is a popular tourist destination, well known for scuba diving and other water sports.
Ocho Rios is one of the fastest growing towns in the Caribbean with a population of about 96,000 people
For all of you history buffs.
Admiral Sir Henry Morgan (Hari Morgan in Welsh), (ca. 1635 – August 25, 1688) was a Welsh privateer, who made a name in the Caribbean as a leader of privateers. He was one of the most notorious and successful privateers from Wales, and one of the most dangerous pirates that lurked in the Spanish Main.
Governor's commission, privateering career
In 1667, he was commissioned by Modyford to capture some Spanish prisoners in Cuba in order to discover details of the threatened attack on Jamaica. Collecting ten ships with five hundred men, Morgan landed on the island and captured and sacked Puerto Principe, then went on to take the fortified and well-garrisoned town of Portobelo, Panama.
The governor of Panama, astonished at this daring adventure, attempted in vain to drive out the invaders, and finally Morgan consented to evacuate the place on the payment of a large ransom. These exploits had considerably exceeded the terms of Morgan's commission and had been accompanied by frightful cruelties and excesses, but the governor of Jamaica endeavoured to cover the whole under the necessity of allowing the English a free hand to attack the Spanish whenever possible. In London the Admiralty publicly claimed ignorance about this, whilst Morgan and his crew returned to their base at Port Royal, Jamaica, to celebrate.
Earthquake of 1692 and its aftermath
On June 7, 1692, a devastating earthquake hit the city causing the sand on which it was built to liquefy and flow out into Kingston Harbour. The water table was generally only two feet down before the impact. The effects of three tidal waves caused by the earthquake further eroded the sand, and soon the main part of the city lay permanently underwater, though intact enough that archaeologists have managed to uncover some well-preserved sites. The earthquake and tsunami killed between 1,000 and 3,000 people combined, over half the city's population. Disease ran rampant in the next several months, claiming an estimated 2,000 additional lives. Many believed the destruction from the earthquake to be an act of God resulting from the city's sinful reputation.
Some attempts were made to rebuild the city, starting with the one third of the city that was not submerged, but these met with mixed success and numerous disasters. An initial attempt at rebuilding was again destroyed in 1703 by fire. Subsequent rebuilding was hampered by several hurricanes in the first half of the 18th century, and soon Kingston eclipsed Port Royal in importance
Calico Jack
John Rackham
Born on December 21, 1682 - Hanged on November 18, 1720
Pirate
Place of birth: Bristol, England
Place of death: Spanish Town, Jamaica
Allegiance: England
Rank: Captain
Base of Operations: West Indies
Commands: The Treasure
John Rackham also known as Calico Jack Rackham or Calico Jack, was an English pirate captain during the early 18th century. His nickname was derived from the calico clothing he wore.
Piracy in the West Indies:
John Rackham is most remembered for two things: 1) his Hollywood-preferred black flag featuring the skull and crossed cutlasses, and 2) employing the two notorious female pirates of The Golden Age of Piracy – Anne Bonny and Mary Read – in his crew.
He made a career of plundering small vessels close to shore, which proved his undoing as he cruised Jamaica in Fall 1720. He captured numerous small fishing vessels, terrorizing fishermen and women along the northern coastline before coming across a small vessel filled with other English pirates. The nine armed men were invited aboard, but were almost immediately under attack by an armed sloop sent out by Governor Lawes.
The Capture, trial and death of Calico Jack and his crew:
Rackham and his crew were captured October 1720 by Captain Jonathan Barnet. Rackham and the male members of the crew were tried and convicted in Spanish Town, Jamaica, November 16-17, 1720. Rackham was hanged the next day, November 18, 1720. Rackham's body was then tarred, hanged in a cage, and gibbeted on display on a very small islet at a main entrance to Port Royal, Jamaica as a warning to other pirates (now known as Rackhams Cay). This is referenced in the Disney film Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl in which several pirates are hanged from an open caveface in the film rendition of Port Royal. Calico Jack's flag was used in Pirates of the Caribbean: At World's End as the Black Pearl's pirate flag.
The only two recorded female Pirates to operate in the British West Indies.
According to the contemporary transcript of the trials, Anne Bonny and Mary Read were not executed, because at their trial a week after Rackham's they both said they were pregnant. They were given a temporary stay until the claim was proved, and the plan was to hang them after childbirth. However, Read died in April 1721 of fever related to childbirth, while Bonny disappeared from the Jamaica records, leaving much legend and speculation regarding her fate. The fate of the newborns is also unknown.
It was known that Ann Bonny was from a very wealthy family and her father had political connections.
The nine men captured with Rackham were tried and convicted in January 1721, and hanged February 1721
Downtown George Town is compact and filled with a variety of stores.
Here you will find duty free shops where you can purchase jewelry, clothing, and souvenirs, as well as the famous Tortuga Rum Cake and black coral jewelry.
In the Cayman Islands, it is illegal to harvest live coral, so black coral is imported from Honduras and Belize. It is carved and polished and offered in a variety of jewelry options at jewelry stores throughout George Town.
You can also find a variety of Cuban cigars for sale here, The Cuban cigars are illegal in the US. All the shops in George Town are closed on Sundays. About the only places open on Sunday are restaurants and dive shops.
When arriving by ship, be forewarned that the ship will dock out in the harbor and you will need to board a tender to come into the dock. There are shopping areas directly across from the docking areas.
Grand Cayman - George Town Bus system
Buses run on eight different routes that are color coded for easy recognition. The main bus depot is located in George Town. From there passengers may take advantage of the following schedules.
The bus from George Town to West Bay runs every 15 minutes and the fare is just under $2(USD) per person each way. This line runs from 6:00 a.m. until 11:00 p.m. Sunday through Thursday, and until midnight on Friday and Saturday.
The bus from George Town to Bodden Town runs ever 30 minutes and the fare is also just under $2(USD) per person each way. This line runs from 6:00 a.m. until 11:00 p.m. Sunday through Thursday, and until midnight on Friday and Saturday.
The bus from George Town to East End and North Side runs once ever hour and the fare is $2.50(USD) per person each way. This line runs from 6:00 a.m. until 9:00 p.m. Saturday through Thursday, and until midnight on Friday.
The public buses on Grand Cayman are a reliable, inexpensive way to see the area. Travelers often find the bus lines a great alternative to the expense of taxis or the hassle of navigating a rental car in foreign driving conditions. For more information on routes and schedules, call 345-945-5100 on Grand Cayman.
The Cayman Dollar
Beware of how merchandise is priced. most everything is marked in Cayman Dollars. One U.S. dollar is only equal to 84 cents (KYD). when you hand over a U.S. $20 bill you will receive $15 or $16 change.…... Don’t expect the shops to provide equivalent exchange rates and only paper money can be exchanged.
Any KYD coins received back is worthless once you leave the Cayman Islands.
http://www.xe.com/ucc/convert.cgi
Live rates at 2008.09.23 15:51:17 UTC
1.00 USD = 0.843882 KYD
United States Dollars= Cayman Islands Dollars
1-USD = 0.843882 KYD 1-KYD = 1.18500 USD
Getting Around George Town
This is a British Crown Colony and everyone drives on the left side of the street.
Rental cars have white license plates --- be especially wary of them -- they are being driven by tourists.
Be very careful where you are walking.
There are taxis available at the dock area and there is also a public bus system.
Buying Liquor
You must make your purchases two hours before ship departure, as purchases must be delivered to the ship, there may be some exceptions.
If your flying home from Port Everglades, be advised of the additional cost for extra weight and extra baggage charges.
Hard Rock Cafe http://www.hardrock.com/locations/ca...77&MIBEnumID=3
Here you can purchase souvenirs, food and drink. Beware that the menu prices are in Cayman Dollars and they are higher than in the U.S.
Two beers and two cheeseburgers will cost approximatly $35.00 U.S. (including 15% gratuity). Most restaurants automatically add a 15% gratuity on your tab.
Snorkeling/Diving
There are dive and snorkel facilities in George Town adjacent to the dock area. There are some very nice reefs nearby where you can see beautiful coral and a variety of fish. You will see Eden Rock just south of the harbor, note: The entry into water at Eden Rock is over jagged rock, water shoes are recommended.
Other Underwater Activities
Atlantis Submarine has a direct booking online Adults $79 USD
Seaworld Explorer semi submarine , online pricing Adults $39 USD
[url]http://res.atlantisadventures.com/tour_info.php?site=5&tour=149/url]
Grand Cayman is on Eastern Standard Time =( EST) year round.
There are public rest rooms in the cruise ship landing area, as well as in the craft market area across from Kirk Freeport shopping center.
There is a public Internet business across the street from the main Post Office, just ask any shop keeper, they will direct you. The shop is down stairs in the rear of the building.
Driving in Grand Cayman
You will need to purchase a temporary visitor's license if you plan to drive while in Grand Cayman. Available at the rental car agency.)
No-No's:
The Cayman Islands have very strict laws with large fines and severe prison terms for use or purchase of marijuana and other controlled substances.
There are no nude or topless beaches on any of the Cayman Islands.
Bathing suits are not appropriate attire in shops or restaurants.
Facts About the Beaches
All Beaches in the Cayman Islands are public up to the high water mark.
Seven Mile Beach
Seven Mile beach encompasses so many different activities, a day at the beach has the ability to leave your head spinning. You can try parasailing along with an abundance of other water sport operators, The pricing of the tours provided by Princess including transportation is recommended, due to exchange rates on Grand Cayman.
Public Beach
The Grand Cayman public beach offers changing and restrooms, showers, a wonderful playground for the kids to enjoy, beach huts, a waterspouts operator, as well as the Calico Jacks Beach Bar for food and drinks where you can enjoy another day in paradise.
Spotts Beach
The Spotts beach (located in Spotts Newlands) is great if you want to get away from the crowd. This spot is surrounded by ironshore cliffs with white beaches and a barrier reef that keeps waters calm year round with huts and benches available for use.
Smith Cove
Located on South Sound this beach offers the convenience of being close to the cruise port to allow for more time enjoying the sun sand and sea. With restrooms, picnic benches, showers, phenomenal snorkeling and great photo ops, you should add Smith Cove to your to-do list while visiting.
West Bay Public Beach
Located after the 4-way stop in West Bay with a wide stretch of powder soft sand and an abundance of shady sea grape trees.
There is also a dock , restrooms/changing facilities, showers and huts/benches.
Cemetery Beach
Cemetery Beach is known for it’s superb snorkeling, but does not offer the convenience of changing facilities restrooms or watersports operators that many of the other beaches have. However, if the underwater beauty of the Cayman Islands is what you seek - put Cemetery Beach at the top of your list.
Rum Point
With the beauty and tranquility of the North Side of the Islands and calm shallow waters that allow children and adults alike to play care free, this experience is what vacationing in the Caribbean is really about. Offering changing/restrooms, showers, huts, hammocks, a volleyball net and the Rum Point beach bar offering food and drinks. Red Sail Sports offers all of your watersports needs - you needn’t look any further for an ideal Cayman day.
East End Public Beach
When you really want to get away from it all, take a trip down to East End. This beach is secluded with only the sound of lapping waves and calling birds to distract from the state of tranquility and peace you will find here. Huts and restrooms are available on location.
Cayman Kai
Cayman Kai has huts, benches, hammocks and the New Orleans atmosphere at the Kaibo bar and grill. With beach volleyball and an annual Mardi Gras festival, you will always be entertained and amused.
Heritage Beach
This site has a small car parking area on the landward side of the road, and picnic facilities on the beach side. The beach is not well suited for swimming, as it grades into shallows with abundant Turtle Grass, a biologically productive system important to a diversity of marine life. A beautiful view across Frank Sound lagoon does however, make Heritage Beach an appealing picnic spot.
Atlantis Submarine, http://www.atlantisadventures.com
A real 48 passenger submarine, offering everybody a chance to experience why Cozumel is one of the top dive destinations in the world. Atlantis will take you more than 100 ft . below the surface
Bone Fishing
Bone fishing takes place in the flats around Cozumel, red snapper and grouper are the main game.
Deep Sea FishingThe Mexican Caribbean is a fisherman's paradise offering some of the most exciting fishing in the world. Cozumel's experienced boat captains and fisherman will take you for the big game.
Stingray Encounter And Snorkeling , http://www.stingraybeach.com
This tour offers two great activities; a personal encounter time and a snorkeling session, both with rays. And, the small groups will guarantee personalized attention from our guides
Upon arrival at Stingray Beach, (a mere five-minute ride from Cozumel’s downtown), you will be gathered in a shaded area and given a brief presentation on how to use the snorkel and mask to better see the sting rays, how to feed and touch the rays and some information about these animals.
Glass Bottom Boat
This three hour trip gives you the opportunity to snorkel two beautiful shallow reefs, like Palancar and Colombia reef, or you can just admire Cozumel's amazing reefs thru the bottom from the boat.
Sub See Explorer
Comfortably sail in a sub-ocean-view explorer. This popular underwater viewing craft allows you to enjoy the panoramic views of the underwater Caribbean. It has been especially designed to insure each passenger comfort and an incredible view during this enjoyable trip.
Sunset Cruise
Admire one of Cozumel's amazing sunset while enjoying your drink, listening to nice music and sailing the beautiful turquoise waters. A wonderful and romantic experience you both will remember.
KK - Jungle Tours
With your bike you will go deep into the Mayan jungle following winding trails of rocks, dirt and dust. Professional guides will explain about the ecology of the area at the various stops of this exciting adventure: The Bat-cave where you will learn about the formations of caves and enter this fragile ecosystem to see its spooky inhabitants; “Cenote Encantado” at the edge of an ancient Mayan ruin with its exotic flora and fauna.
ATV Jungle & Snorkel Combo http://www.wild-tours.com
Join us on an exciting ATV Adventure through the heart of the Jungle of Cozumel! On this adventure ride you will leave from the Mayan Town of “El Cedral,” and visit a natural sinkhole, followed by an underground cave and later on to visit a small Mayan Ruin all of which are tied to the Mayan Civilization. After enjoying this exciting ATV ride you will be transported to one of Cozumel’s beautiful beaches where if you choose you may experience a one of a kind snorkel experience at no extra cost.
Cozumel Island Tour
This tour really takes you to the most interesting sites of Cozumel . The tour starts with a visit to San Gervasio, mythical Mayan ruins surrounded by the jungle at the north side of the island. Your guide will tell you all about Ix-Chel, the island's goddess, how she was worshipped and the mysterious beliefs around her. After this cultural start the tour will take you to the east side of Cozumel along the scenic road with the most beautiful beaches, The tour ends with an amazing snorkeling adventure in Chankanaab National Park , Cozumel 's most spectacular snorkeling place. In Chankanaab you can also: walk around in the botanical gardens.
Jeep Jungle Tour
This tour takes you to the last frontier of Cozumel . Off the crowded and beaten path, this tour will take you through lush jungle and along remote beaches overlooking the Caribbean side of the island. You will see a coastal Mayan ruin dating back to 1200. You will also get the chance to snorkel the rare reef Micro Atolls with giant coral heads that reach the surface of these blue waters (weather permitting).
Dolphin Discovery , http://www.dolphindiscovery.com
Swimming with dolphins is everything you´ve imagined and more - and a chance to encounter these highly intelligent and friendly marine mammals which will fascinate and amaze you.
Just south of the town of San Miguel, is located Isla Cozumel's Reefs National Marine Park, which boasts the only inland coral reef formation in the world. This park features the world renowned eco-system and natural aquarium, Chankanaab Lagoon.
Popular park sites and excursions include Dolphin Discovery, where you can swim with the dolphins or enjoy the 45-minute dolphin encounter. Also enjoy the Sea Lion Show, ; watch exotic birds, or simply bask in the sun.
Famous Fury Catamarans , http://www.cozumel-snorkeling.com
Snorkel Palancar 2 Reefs & Beach Party
Set sail aboard a luxurious, custom-built 65-ft Catamaran to two of the most spectacular snorkeling sites in Cozumel, Cardona Reef and Palancar Reef.
Our friendly crew provides professional instruction on the use of first class snorkeling equipment.
Crewmembers also accompany you into the crystal clear waters where you can see for 100-feet. Discover stunning coral formations and a colorful array of marine life on a spectacular reef--home to exotic Queen Angel fish, Stoplight Parrot fish and Blue Tangs.
After snorkeling, it’s “all you can drink” free iced cold beers, tropical margaritas, refreshing sodas and purified water as you sail to our private white powder sand beach.
Jungle Jeep Adventure Tour , http://www.isla-pasion.com
Drive through the town of San Miguel over to an abandoned sascab mine.
Ride to Bah*a Ciega where a catamaran will be ready to take you to Isla Pasión where you can relax on a hammock, sun tan, play, get a massage or go shopping. Savour our Mexican buffet, and quench your thirst with our open bar.
Note: Drivers must present a valid driver’s license. For their own safety, Total journey from the ship to the island will be approximately 40 to 50 minutes. Shopping includes silver jewelry, pottery, and clothing. Guests stay at Isla Pasión for 180 minutes. (3 hours)
Adventure Park, Zip Line & Snorkel , http://www.mexicoadventureguides.com
A short ride brings you to the exclusive beachside at the Adventure Park, where expert guides will outfit you with a harness, helmet, and climbing shoes.
You can fly through the air on a zip-line, cross between the towers on exciting suspension bridges, walk the raised balance beams, attempt any of the 70 climbing routes, and rappel off the highest climbing routes, and rappel off the highest climbing tower in Mexico while your friends and family cheer you on!.
Next you will be given state of the art snorkel gear and guided into the crystal clear water that Cozumel is famous for.
Isla Pasión – Tour , http://www.isla-pasion.com
Isla Pasión is a private island located on the northern part of Cozumel, just 25 minutes away from downtown San Miguel.
Enjoy a day of relaxation away from crowds on this white sand paradise. Delight your senses with our Open Bar and Mexican Buffet at the restaurant.
Rest on a hammock while the gentle breeze rocks you, challenge your friends and family on a volleyball match, or participate on our waterballoon contest. Sun bathe, swim, relax, play, enjoy!
Playa Uvas , http://www.playauvas.com
The closest Beach Club to the piers welcomes you to enjoy activities such as our exclusive clear kayak tour, or shore guided snorkel Chankanaab reef tour and scuba diving for certified or beginners, these are some of the examples of experiences you can live while you are visiting us. Or if you feel like relaxing, enjoy a massage in our lounge area by the pool, where under palm trees you will feel the breeze of the Caribbean Ocean. If you feel like shopping you can browse in our store of typical Mexican crafts. Our specialties restaurant and our bar will complement and excellent day of sun, sea and sand.
Harley Davidson Tour
Davidson sportsters and Cozumel!!! What a combination!! Take a ride with us around the island. Discover places that very few know about. Head south and experience the ancient Mayan town of Cedral and its Mayan vestiges. Ask your guide about the annual “Dance of the pig” .
After our stop at Cedral we continue south to Punta Celerain and its historical lighthouse. Climb to the top of the lighthouse and don’t forget your camera. The view is breathtaking and the historical museum at the lighthouse is plentiful with artifacts and information about the families that lived and worked at this island monument. Once you catch your breath we mount up and navigate the windy road back to the main highway and the Rasta Bar.
Our next stop is at “Coconuts” Restaurant and bar. Relax and enjoy the surroundings while we serve you ice cold drinks and dine on authentic Mexican cuisine. Here you’ve got time to wander the beach take a swim or just relax and enjoy the incredible view. Once we wrap it up at Coconuts our journey continues north along the scenic coastline passing turn at Mezcalitos we head west taking the transversal road that crosses the island heading back to the main town of San Miguel. We’ll enter the town from the back side and maneuver our way toward the water front and the downtown plaza. Margaritaville will be our final destination.
Those that wish to return to the ship will be provided transportation.
[color=green]Cuban cigars are illegal in the United States, except for pre-embargo cigars which are very rare and extremely expensive. If U.S. citizens attempt to buy, own or bring any Cuban cigars into the U.S., they may be subject to fines and other penalties, depending on the particular circumstances.
Cuban Cigars Are Illegal at Home and Abroad
Technically, although an American citizen cannot even purchase or smoke a Cuban cigar while traveling abroad, there may not be any practical way to enforce the restriction. That being said, a cigar smoker who ever wanted to try a Cuban cigar may want to take the chance while traveling in other countries. Canada and Mexico are not very far from many American cities, and those who are planning a Caribbean cruise will find Cuban cigars for sale on many of the islands. There is, however, a problem with counterfeit Cuban cigars being sold to American tourists. To improve the chances of getting the real thing, make your purchase from a reputable cigar store, and not one of the many street vendors that you'll see near the port. Do not buy any more cigars that you intend to smoke while abroad.
Know the Risks
Cuban Assets Control Regulations, 31 C.F.R. Part 515, (Revised September 30, 2004) are administered and enforced by the Office of Foreign Assets Control. Criminal penalties for violation of the Regulations can go as high as $1 million for corporations, and $250,000 for individuals plus up to 10 years in prison. In addition, civil penalties of up to $65,000 per violation can be imposed by OFAC.
In general, Cuban cigars are the best in the world. However, a particular Dominican, Honduran or Nicaraguan cigar can taste better than a particular Cuban cigar. Being Cuban does not automatically make a cigar great, but it does make it the forbidden fruit, and therefore, desirable to some connoisseurs. There are so many great cigars in this world, more than one person can ever sample, that it may not make sense to violate our country's laws just to smoke a cigar from Cuba.
Top Legal Cigars better & Just as Expensive.Expect to pay as much for top Dominican and Nicaraguan cigars as for many mediocre Cubans. The best Dominican cigar available (although very expensive and extremely rare) is arguably the Fuente Fuente Opus X.
The Padron 1926 could be the best cigar from Nicaragua. Depending on your individual taste, these cigars will top just about any Cuban.
Absolutely Sharon. We are so excited since this is our first cruise. We are getting to Ft. Lauderdale on Friday so I'll celebration will start a day early! We are expecting to have a wonderful time. The only down part is we have to leave our two lovable fur babies, but they are going to have a sitter 24/7. To bad we can't bring our doggies. Have a wonderful time Sharon.
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Ruby Princess - November 8th (Inaugural)
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