By Tricia Chaves
Palm trees
Royal
Caribbean offers a fun four-day Bahamas cruise aboard the Majesty of the Seas departing from
Miami, Florida with sailing dates August through April. The ship visits Nassau, Bahamas, the company's private island in the Bahamas called Cococay and Key West, Florida before returning to Miami. This is a perfect cruise for first-time cruisers. The varied on-board agenda combined with stops at a new port each day creates limitless options for activity on or off the ship.
Wows and Woes
There are many things to do on this cruise and at the ports. It's impossible to be bored. The staff is consistently courteous, friendly and attentive. The food is delicious and varied.
Key West was disappointing. I wished we had an opportunity to experience the city's nightlife or even more time at the port in the day (only 8 hours). Rough seas made the snorkeling excursion dangerous. The long choppy catamaran to the reef was uncomfortable. Participants returned to the boat immediately, or never got off, because it was too difficult to swim.
Insider Tips
Make spa reservations as soon as you arrive. Discounted specials are announced after the second cruise day.
Save on cigarettes and alcohol but check your limits before taking it back to the U.S. Alcohol is delivered the night prior to your return to port in Miami.
In Nassau, get your own taxi to Atlantis (aquarium, water slide, casino). In Key West, don't pre-book a snorkeling excursion unless you're sure of the weather.
Author's Most Memorable Moment
Royal Caribbean gives a special rate to Florida residents. My friend and I planned a girls' trip and were fortunate to be seated (albeit with two couples) with people our own age. We had a really nice time each night catching up with one another about how our day went, and talking about the night's menu and entertainment. We were like old friends by the second day. It was a really great surprise.
Bottom Line
This cruise was a great value for the money, allowing us to see a lot of places in a short time. September deals were unbeatable.
About the Author:
After working in advertising and promotions for entertainment publisher "The New Times," Tricia Chaves began writing professionally. In 2005, she earned her real-estate salesperson license from the state of Ohio and certification for leasing and property management from the Northeast Ohio Apartment Association. She was certified as a life and weight loss coach and Master Practitioner of Neuro-Linguistic Programming in 2011.
