All Aboard!

The day that our Eastern Caribbean cruise is set to begin is finally here!

We spent the night at El Doral Resort in Miami. Huge compound, that seemed to take up several blocks, with many facilities. Unfortunately for us we had to do a quick check out so we were not able to appreciate the pools, and all the other amenities on the premises.

Our Cruise ship was scheduled to embark at 4:00 P.M. but we had to be on board no later than 2:30 P.M. We had no idea that the boarding process was so lengthy. Check-in was similar to the airport. Long lines, screening of personal items, identity check and re-check, proof of citizenship etc, etc etc.

Finally after a hosts of lines and checks we were able to walk on board straight to our cabin, but not for long because 30 minutes after we boarded there was a disaster drill. It wasn't until a little after 5:00 P.M. when we concluded the drill that we were all encouraged to wave Miami goodbye as the ship set sail. It would have been a wonderful sight had it not been cloudy and rainy. We were blessed with a pretty nice stateroom, with a balcony and the sound of the waves produced by actual waves, not a CD or a white noise maker.

The first evening is pretty much a time to settle in and get familiar with the ship, the services offered on board etc. So far it seems like this will be a relaxing, soothing,calm time for all of us.