2015 Christmas Cruise, Day 17

Tuesday, January 5th.

Today was a travel day.  We left very early from Fort Lauderdale then flew to Baltimore where we transferred airplanes.  It was then a direct flight to Salt Lake, arriving early enough in the day to get home when it's still light out.  We did have lots of explaining and apologizing to do to the cats for the last 2 1/2 weeks.

Huge thanks to the Minors for checking on the cats and house while we were away!

Found this adorable message when we returned home

Map of Island Princess

2015 Christmas Cruise, Day 16

Monday, January 4th.

We were scheduled to arrive in Ft. Lauderdale, Florida at 7am.  We dealt with the chaotic buffet (which was not as bad as other cruises had been) and made our way back to the room to make sure we had everything packed.  We made our way to the disembarkation area.  Because we were on an excursion, we had a special meeting place.  We were escorted off the ship and sailed through customs and made our way to the bus.

Island Princess in Fort Lauderdale

Other cruise ships in port

Our tour guide was a little disorganized but still got us to the places we needed to be.  We did get a chance to see the city as we drove through it and received a narrated tour along the way.  then we made our way to a paddlewheel boat that we took along Millionaires Row.

Paddle-wheel boat for our cruise of the inter-coastal waterways of Fort Lauderdale

We saw massive homes of the rich and famous and even some multi-million dollar yachts. The boat had a small snack bar and two decks (second deck not accessible to wheelchairs).  Still, it was very interesting and probably one of the highlights of the cruise.  Once our tour was complete, we headed back to the bus and then dropped off at the airport.  Our tablemates, Skip and Nancy, were also on the tour and staying at the same hotel as we were, so the four of us contacted the hotel and made our way over there on their shuttle.

Bridge up (not something we see in Utah very often)

Homes of the rich and famous

Homes of the rich and famous

More homes of the rich and famous

Yachts of the rich and famous

Yacht of Steven Spielberg

We later took the shuttle down to a shopping center and had dinner at a TGIF (not an impressive restaurant).  Since we had an ultra early flight the next day, we hit the bed early.

Kent on the paddle-wheel boat, second level

Ships log: At 0400 the ship made her final approach towards Port Everglades on a Westerly heading.  By 0415 we had embarked our local pilot who assisted the bridge team in through the buoyed channel towards our berth.  At 0500 the vessel conducted a slow swing to starboard and commenced moving astern approaching berth at Pier 21 Starboard side alongside.

This completed our 15 day cruise with 2 additional days at LA and Four Lauderdale.  We traveled a total of 4,071 nautical miles or 5406 statute miles. 

2015 Christmas Cruise, Day 15

Sunday, January 3rd.

Today was our last "At Sea" day and last day of the cruise.  We started packing our bags and get ready for our return to the United States tomorrow.  The cruise line asks everyone to put their bags out by a certain time in the evening but since we still need the medical equipment, we don't follow their instructions and just carry our bags off.  However, since we had three bags this time, we kept one bag for her equipment and put the other two out.

We also had our last dinner with our table mates and said our farewells.  This was a good group of people, and we will miss them but hope to stay in contact.

Ship log: In the early morning island princess rounded Cabo San Antonio the most westerly point of Cuba at a distance of 13.5 Nm on the starboard side and then we altered course to north East.  Noon position: 23°13.0' N - 083°18.0' W.  Temperature: 27°C (81°F)).  Wind: North Easterly force 4.  Barometer 1015.5 and partly cloudy skies.  During the evening we entered the Florida Straits and set a Northerly course towards Port Everglades.

Our Waiters, Ric (R) and Raule (L)

Our table

2015 Christmas Cruise, Day 14

Saturday, January 2nd

Grand Cayman Island in the morning

Today was the port day at Grand Cayman.  It was another tender port, but it was much easier than the other tender ports.  Water was pretty calm but we did notice 3 other large ships in the port that day.

Princess describes Grand Cayman as: "When Columbus made his landfall in the Caymans in 1503, he found tortoises and sea turtles in such profusion that he promptly named the islands Las Tortugas. But the name that stuck for the islands was the Carib word "Caimanas." Fitting, since the caiman is a New World crocodilian and the islands were long the lair of pirates, buccaneers, and assorted freebooters. Despite their past, the Caymans are a Caribbean demi-paradise of white-sand beaches, coral gardens, and offshore waters harboring spectacular shipwrecks. Grand Cayman, Cayman Brac and Little Cayman also boast the highest standard of living in the entire Caribbean. This union of natural beauty and cosmopolitan style makes Grand Cayman a spectacular port of call for today's adventurers."

Grand Cayman is a very British town, with driving on the left side of the road and drivers seat on the right side of the car.  This was our second time to be on a bus driving in the British style (last time was in Nassau, Bahamas.  Signage was all in English and the US dollar was widely accepted.  The island was very clean and beautiful.  It would be a wonderful vacation spot!

"Jerk shacks" are very popular on the island, being a casual eatery that serves meats, anything from curried goat to chicken or pork with bread for mopping up the juices and spices.  Cayman islands are also home to giant green sea turtles, plenty of which we saw on our cruise.  The national bird of the Islands is the Cayman Parrot, the national flower is the Wild Banana Orchid and the Silver Thatch Palm is the national tree.

We did go on an excursion, though it was a disappointing one.  We started out by driving through the town and seeking Fort George, the Legislative Assembly Building, Heroes Square, the Peace Memorial and many of the city's stately banks. We first visited  Dolphin Discovery where we watched the dolphins do a couple of jumps and flips before we had to be back on the bus.  Each stop was only about 20 minutes, so it was not very long at all.

Dolphin "show"

Dolphin comes in for a visit.

We then made our way to Hell! The name of this small town on Cayman's west side was inspired by the devilish beauty of its weird black limestone formations (even though the lava formations in Idaho are more impressive). We did purchase a few post cards there and even sent one to DeeAnn's Dad in commemoration.

Yep, we made it to Hell!

Geologic feature of lava flow

Lava formations

Lava flow and post office are the main features here

We then visited what was described as a rum cake factory, even though we did not see any factory.  There was a store and we could get samples of the rum (which we passed on) and rum cake (which was very good but had a high rum flavor).

Lots of resorts and vacation spots on the island

After we got back to the port, we decided to wander around the town a bit.  We visited some of the shops and eventually settled down for lunch at a local waterside bar and grill.

DeeAnn's salad

We watched some of the fish swimming around close to the shore, in and out of the rocks.  The food was pretty good though the service was slow.  We purchased a few souvenirs from the shops along the pier then went back to the ship to enjoy our daily ice cream cone.

Our daily ice cream cone!

Ships log:  Pre-arrival checks were commenced at 0400 as we started to sight the shore lights of the Bay of George Town.  By 0631 the ship was in position and the starboard anchor was 'let go' to 7 shackles in the water (1 shackle = 37.5 meters of anchor cable).  Sky at noon: partly cloudy.  Wind North Easterly Force 3.  Temperature 28°C (82.0°F).  Air pressure: 1016.5 hPa.  At 1545 "standby below' was passed to the engine control room and shortly after we commenced weighing the starboard anchor.  Once the anchor was reported home and all our tenders had been 'confirmed for sea,' Island Princess slowly made her way out of the bay settling on a north westerly course across the Caribbean seas.

2015 Christmas Cruise, Day 13

Friday, January 1, 2016 - New Year's Day

Its the new year and another "At Sea" day.  It was be a quiet morning as most people were sleeping in and sleeping off their hangovers.

We spent the day relaxing, watching our videos, crafting, attending lectures, getting together with new friends we have made, etc.  The weather was pretty rough, so some people were not even leaving their rooms.It was actually fun to go down to the Promenade Desk (deck 7, the lowest outside deck) and watch the waves.  They look so much smaller from our balcony.

Spaghetti and meatballs for dinner

Fruit as dessert

Dinner selection

Ice cream selection for dessert

Large waves today

Large waves

Ship log:  Throughout the day Island Princess followed a North North-Westerly course across the Caribbean Sea towards to Grand Cayman.  noon position: 14°20.6 N - 078°27.8 W.  Temperature: 28°C (82°F).  Wind: North Easterly force 6.  Barometer 1011.5 and cloudy skies.

2015 Christmas Cruise, Day 12

Thursday, December 31st.

Today was another port day, Cartegena, Colombia.  Since Colombia is considered part of the South American Continent, this marks Kent's 3rd continent visited and DeeAnn's second.  Cartagena was founded by the Spanish Explorer Madrileño Don Pedro de Heredia in 1533.  Located in the northwestern area of South America, Cartagena sits on the northern coast of Colombia and shares its borders with Venezuela, Brazil, Ecuador, Peru, and Panama.  The population of Cartagena in 2010 was 952,024.  Situated so close to the equator, Colombia does not have seasons and maintains an average temperature of 82°F.  They use the Colombian Peso as their currency but widely accept the US dollar as well. 

The cuisine of Colombia is influenced by those of Spain, Italy, France, America, and native influences.  local specialties include buñuelos, a deep fried corn flour ball with cheese in the dough, and empanadas, made with potato and meat in a pouch-like yellow exterior.  Pre-Colombian civilizations cultivated about 200 varieties of potatoes and Cartageneros know how to prepare them hundreds of different and delicious ays.  About 12% of the world's coffee is produced in Colombia.  95% of the world's emeralds come from Colombia and they are the second largest flower exporter in the world. 

City map

Princess describes the port:  "One of the more interesting cities on your itinerary steeped in history. This was the transit port for all the wealth Spain derived from South America. The famous "Old City" is comprised of 12 square blocks filled with attractions, boutiques and restaurants.

Throughout Colombia, the Spanish Empire's influence in the New World is self-evident. Its fortress walls, quaint narrow streets, and balconied houses are all vivid reminders of Spain's hold on Cartagena and throughout the Caribbean and South America. This is the land of El Dorado and flamboyant adventurers in search of the ever-elusive gold. Cartagena's well-constructed fortifications defended its borders against seafaring pirates whose attacks lasted for more than 200 years. Today this modern and bustling city, seaport, and commercial center still boasts much of its original colonial architecture. Your journey here will provide you with a significant link to the region's grand past."

We scheduled a hop on/hop off tour on one of the local tour services.  There were 12 stops along the way which we could have got off, looked around and get back on the next bus, which ran every 30-45 minutes.  But we stayed on, not really knowing if it was safe to get off or if we could even get back to the ship.  However, we did get off for a walking tour of the old city, which was very interesting.  It was a very warm day. 

Princess described the tour as:  Begin at the scenic La Bodeguita Pier and continue to Pastelillo Fortress. Built in the 16th century, this was one of Cartagena's first defense posts.

Pastelillo Fortress

Continue on to the bright golden-yellow Clock Tower (Torre del Reloj), one of the most iconic sights in Cartagena, standing tall over the main entrance to the old colonial city, the walled section displaying 18th-century homes, beautiful squares and lively cafes. The tower was constructed in 1888 and faces a statue of Pedro de Heredia, the city's founder.

From this venue, you'll commence on a walking tour through the Old City, a wonderful opportunity to photograph the Spanish colonial architecture, much of which has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The larger the balcony, the wealthier the family

Such notable sights as the gracious La Plaza de San Pedro Claver, stately Cartagena Cathedral, and El Museo del Oro, a petite gold museum that houses exquisite pieces and teaches the fascinating history of the gold and pottery of the Sinu people.

The haunting El Palacio de la Inquisicion, one of the best-preserved late-colonial structures in town, showcases a stone gateway topped with the Spanish coat of arms. Look around the side of the building for a tiny window with a cross on the top. This is where heretics were denounced for their crimes of magic and witchcraft.

Locals in costumes

Lots of street vendors selling an assortment of wares

Wares of all sorts being sold in the city

Street scene

You'll also find Las Bóvedas (the dungeons), a row of cells now converted into artisan shops, and Santo Domingo Square, named after the Santo Domingo Church, which looms above the plaza. The church was built in 1539, and legend tells that the reason the bell tower has a twisted profile is due to the devil's failed attempt to destroy it.

Plaque describing the city

You might choose to stop at Las Murallas, built to fortify the city from the constant raid of pirates. These walls are considered the city's most distinctive feature, built over time from 1600 through 1796. A walk along this landmark is a city tradition.

More plaques around the city

Another can't-miss attraction is the San Felipe de Barajas Castle, built in 1639.
Inside this building, you'll travel through a series of spooky tunnels. The acoustics are near-perfect, constructed so approaching footsteps could be heard to alert of an enemy approach.

San Felipe de Barajas Castle

People walking up the paths of the San Felipe de Barajas Castle

San Felipe de Barajas Castle.  Much larger than it looks

 San Martin Avenue in the New City is lined with fashionable boutiques, bars and restaurants, followed by Pierino Gallo, a modern retail area and important emerald sales district. Colombia is significant for its emerald production, and here you'll find numerous shops selling the precious green gem.

Drive along the scenic Cartagena Bay to La Bodeguita Pier. Once you are ready to return to the port, just hop back on board. Tour timing is at your discretion. Please ensure ample time to return to the port."

Iguana

Have to say that the San Felipe de Barajas Castle was incredible.  We didn't get off and tour it, but our table mate did and he said it was quite a steep walk and wall-to-wall with people (there were 3 cruise ships in port today, nearly 1,000,000 residents, and lots of others visiting the city in anticipation of New Years celebration. 

Once we returned to the pier, we went down to a set of shops to buy some last minute souvenirs.  It was here we saw the iguana and flamingos. 

It's New Years Eve so it was our final formal night.  On our previous cruise when we brought in the year, they distributed hats and party favors but we didn't see that this year.  But since we are not party animals anyway, we woke up to hear the new year being brought in but skipped the on-deck party.  Because the sea was still pretty rocky, they actually moved the party from the pool deck to the atrium. But we did sit for a formal portrait.  There was no line and we had several shots taken.  We eventually purchased one of the shots. 

Formal night portrait

Red potatoes as an appetizer

2015 Christmas Cruise, Day 11

Wednesday, December 30th.

Today was the day we have been waiting for.  Past cruisers say that the Panama Canal is an engineering masterpiece and a wonderful cruise experience.  We certainly found this to be true.

There were fewer organized activities today as most passengers wanted to watch the transit.  A reason we get a balcony is to enjoy the views from the comfort of our room.  But to really enjoy the canal, one has to observe the locks in action, watching the gates open and close, and the locks fill or empty their water.  We started with a very early breakfast (can you say 5 am is early?). 

Sunrise over the Pacific Ocean

Early morning on the Promenade deck

We then made our way to the 7th deck, or the Promenade deck, the lowest deck that would allow us to watch the operations of the locks.  We also chose to station ourselves on the starboard side so we could see the LDS Panama temple.  It was very close to the canal and beautiful.  Yep, we see them everywhere!  

Panama City LDS Temple seen from the Panama Canal

Mules that guide the ships along the Canal

Locks of the Panama Canal

Locks of the Panama Canal, allowing the ship to go up in elevation

Mules working hard

Lots of greetings from the workers

A new visitors center/museum is ready to open

First lock of the Panama Canal

Original bridge cantilevered out over the canal when needed.

One of the locks was undergoing maintenance and as a result traffic along the canal was very light, about 1/2 of what it normally was.  Cruise ships receive priority in transit.  It was interesting to note that the cost of transit for our ship was based on the number of passengers, which cost the ship about $220,000.  We also saw the new locks which should be open very soon.  So far no cruise lines have indicated they will be using them.  It is also interesting to note the Chinese are planning a new canal in Nicaragua that will allow the China-max ships to pass (ships even bigger than the Panamax ships, those build specifically with the canal dimensions in mind).

Lots of ships transit the canal

Kent on the Balcony on the Panama Canal

Lock undergoing maintenance

Locks are massive

2 sides of the lock allows flow both ways (most of the time)

Double locks allow for more efficient operations

Amazing to think the Canal is over 100 years old

The official logo of the Panama Canal

The original canal, as started by the French

Speaking of food, we have to say that we enjoyed Princess food most of the time.  There was a few duds along the way.  Our breakfast usually included fresh fruit, bacon, potato paddies, yogurt, pastries, and eggs, even made to order.  Water is gathered from the sea and then treated.  It is actually pretty good.  Our room steward would leave us with a fresh bucket of ice each day, allowing us to have ice water, or add Kool-Aid to it.

Our alternative to soda

Today we also began a transition from the Pacific Ocean to the Atlantic Ocean. We found the waters very rough as we hit the Atlantic. In fact, it was the roughest waters we experienced on this cruise and pretty closest to the worst we have ever experienced.

Its official!

Ships log: At 0547 we contacted Flamenco Signal Station and confirmed our ETA (Estimated Time of Arrival) at the pilot station and our transit number for the day N15Z.  At 0647 we embarked the local pilots and the Canal Inspectors to inspect our vessel prior to our transit.  At 0710 we enter the Panama Canal and at 0739 passed under the Bridge of Americas.  25 Marinos along with 3 more pilots jointed the ship at 0745 to make the mules fast and assist with our entry into the locks.  At 0821 our bow was in line with the center wall of the first set of locks.  At 0844 Island Princess entered the first lock: Miraflores.  At 1114 the vessel was inside the Pedro Miguel Locks and at 1147 the Marinos disembarked after completion of our accent of Pedro Miguel Locks.  Noon position: Panama Canal (Northbound).  Temperature: 31°C (88°F).  Wind Northerly force 5.  Barometer 1009.5 and cloudy skies.  During the early afternoon we transited the Galliard Cut and passed through the town of Gamboa before making our way through Gatun Lake.  At 1414.25 Marinos embarked the ship for our final set of locks.  At 1516 we entered Gatun Locks and began the descent back to sea level.  At 1640 the pilots and Marinos disembarked and shortly after we exited the breakwater at Cristobal, this marked our entry into the Caribbean Sea.  An Easterly course was set overnight at full speed towards Cartagena.