Well, happy new Year! Another year over, and adventure awaits all of us in this coming years. Before the year ended , we’ve embarked on a Western Caribbean islands cruise aboard the Norwegian Epic. We were so excited to plan our excursion, the days as sea, what are we going to do, what’s in store for us. Excited to see the ship again, a ship that we’ve been in our European Cruise. However , what unfolded was a delightful mix of planned excursions and unexpected discoveries. Departing from Port Canaveral, Florida, our journey through the Western Caribbean islands held surprises and cherished moments beyond the itinerary.

Start of Vacation Day:

Our vacations to go cruise starts from Philadelphia, Pennsylvania to Orlando, Florida. Our Flight was 7:00 in the morning for a 6:00 PM boarding on the Ship, I’ve tried changing this the flight to a later time thinking that was too early but was unsuccessful because this was part of the cruise package. Thankfully, I was not able to change the time because it turned out to be just right. On the day of the vacation we left our home around 4:30 AM , had to park our car to an off Airport parking lot called the Parking Spot which I’m now a fan of. I might elaborate on that on another blog but for now let continue. Arrived to check in our bags around 5:15 AM and was a breeze though TSA security since it was very early. No delays on our flight , everything was smooth as of this time.

Welcome to Orlando:

As we arrive in Orlando Airport around 10:00 AM, there were Norwegian Cruise crews that greeted us to help us get situated. As we were waiting for our luggage, I got a text from American Airlines that 1 of our luggage was delayed. Oh No, this is not good. Some things went to our minds , which luggage was it, what’s in it, are we going on the cruise with no change of clothes, no toiletries, etc. While my wife and son was waiting for the other luggages, I went to the NCL crew and ask her what can we do. He pointed me to the American Airlines luggage office to ask for some more specifics about the delay.

I went to the AA office, and were answering some questions about the luggage , where are we staying in Orlando, etc. The American Airline personnel learned that we are going on a cruise, and he was asking me for the ports that we will be going . According to their system our luggage was left in Philadelphia with no explanation as to why. We were early and couldn’t think of a scenario why our luggage will be left behind. Our Western Caribbean islands ports were as follows – Great Stirrup Cay, Bahamas; Sea Day, Ocho Rios, Jamaica; George Town, Cayman Islands; Cozumel, Mexico, Sea Day and back to Orlando.

No Clothes for 3 days ?

The first port, Great Stirrup Cay, Bahamas is a private island owned by Norwegian Cruise line, so according to American Airlines they could not deliver it there since it’s a private island, so the next port where we could potentially get our luggage is in Ocho Rios, Jamaica which is the third day. As I was talking to the AA personnel, why wife called me and said all our luggages arrived. Whew, what a relief. We’ve got them and went to the NCL crew who guided us to the area where we will wait for the Bus going to Cape Canaveral Port where Norwegian Epic is waiting.

Norwegian Epic,boarding time ?

We took the bus from the airport which is around 45 minutes to an hour way from the port, deposited our luggage and went our way to check-in to board the ship. This is where we realized to be thankful that our flight was early. As we get in to the covered area of the Port, there were a lot of people. And as we got it, they temporarily stopped people from coming in. After a few minutes, when we looked outside , there were a lot of people. That could have been us waiting outside, if our flight was later. For sure they will still be able to board but the wait time will be longer.

We finally ,registered and cleared the security check. Got our keycards and all ,boarded the Norwegian Epic and went to mandatory safety training meeting place.

Western Caribbean Islands, here we come?

Our room is not yet ready by this time, we spent our time getting ready to the vacation. Booking some the Specialty dining that’s part of our package, going to Viator for some excursion that we were still thinking but haven’t finalized yet. And while internet is still available booked our excursion for the Sting Ray Island package for Cayman Islands. We went for late Lunch on the Grand buffet at 12th Floor . As the time passes, our room became available, walked around the ship, checked out the available Entertainment and amenities.

Wait! we can’t leave to western caribbean island yet.

We’ve realized that it’s already past the departure time. The unpredictability of Mother Nature led to delay on leaving Port and the cancellation of our visit to Great Stirrup Cay, Bahamas. Granting us unexpected an extra sea day at the start of our journey. These spontaneous moments on the open waters offered relaxation and the chance to embrace the unexpected. This means we will missed the Swimming with the Pigs Excursion that we’ve booked as well as seeing the improvements that was done to Great Stirrup Cay. We’ve been there before on our first cruise in 2011, It was only a beach with beach chairs some small huts and I think I was also right after a storm. We’ve been seeing a lot of improvements around this island and was quite excited, but what can we do. Mother Nature has spoken.

Our First Western Caribbean Island Port, Ocho Rios Jamaica:

Finally our days in sea is over, we are docking in our first port of the Cruise, Ocho Rios, Jamaica in Reynold’s pier. We are ready for ur excursion to Blue Hole and Dunns River . To be honest I don’t like the start of the day , there is a delay in docking because of a fork lift that needs to be moved. And then It’s a bit chaotic on the place where we are meeting for Excursions. But those kind of things should not deter you from enjoying and soaking in the the experiences.

Blue Hole, Ocho Rios Jamaica

Our First Stop, Blue Hole Also known as the “Secret Falls” or “Island Gully Falls,” this hidden gem offers a refreshing escape into nature’s embrace. Nestled amidst lush greenery, the Blue Hole features crystalline, turquoise waters surrounded by tropical foliage, creating a picturesque setting straight out of a postcard. Adventurers and nature enthusiasts flock here for its enticing activities, including cliff jumping, swimming in the cool and clear pools. What sets the Blue Hole apart is its untouched, natural charm. I’m scared of heights and not that a good swimmer but I enjoyed all the trekking and cliff jumping. Unlike more commercialized attractions, this spot maintains a raw and unspoiled ambiance, allowing visitors to experience nature in its purest form.

Dunn’s River Falls, Ocho Rios Jamaica

Unlike the untouched natural charm of Blue hole, Dunn’s River Falls is crowded. Once you get pass the crowd you will be amazed at the breathtaking cascade of terraced water that flows over smooth rocks, creating a stunning stair-like effect.

What makes Dunn’s River so special is the opportunity it offers for an exhilarating adventure. Visitors have the chance to climb the falls, led by experienced guides, hand in hand, forming a human chain as they ascend the limestone tiers against the backdrop of rushing water. It’s both a refreshing and invigorating experience, perfect for families, groups of friends, or solo travelers seeking some excitement.

The falls are surrounded by lush, tropical vegetation, adding to the beauty of the landscape. There are also viewing platforms for those who prefer to marvel at the cascades from a distance or capture some fantastic photos.

Western Caribbean Island next stop, George Town, Cayman Islands: To be continued …