Last July my brother invited me to join him on another Holland America casino offer vacation with a twist. Instead of returning home right after the cruise he’d go home with me for a few days. Oh, it also involved going to the Daytona 500 with my husband. Both of us couldn’t say yes quick enough!
Each of had to pay $200 (returned as onboard credit) and port fees/taxes.
Itinerary
This trip has four ports as you can see in the map above. I’ve been to all four ports previously but we have made new to us plans for a couple of the places.
Nassau
I really wanted to take a food tour but the one day it doesn’t run is Sundays. So, that will have to wait until next time. Instead we just plan to walk around and sight see a bit.
Amber Cove
The only other time I was here we went to an all-inclusive so this time the plan is to stay in port. We’ll enjoy the complimentary pool and loungers although I plan to rent an umbrella if needed.
Grand Turk
My typical itinerary here is to walk to Jack’s Shack. This time I rented a cabana at the Margaritaville pool right off the pier. Looking forward to enjoying some pool time with shade, drinks and snacks.
Plus, I’m right at home in a Margaritaville property. 🙂
Half Moon Cay
My brother rented us a clamshell to use at Holland America’s private island.
Looking forward to revisiting the most pristine beach I’ve visited. Half Moon Cay is always a wonderful beach day.
The Ship and Cabin
This cruise is on the Nieuw Statendam which Steve and I sailed for my 60th birthday celebration in 2019.
It’s a beautiful ship although I did think it was too crowded in the lido deck and the main pool didn’t have enough loungers. I’m sure those issues will still be there but we’ll have a great time nevertheless.
Our original reservation was for an ocean view guarantee. About three weeks before sailing we got an upgrade offer and took advantage of it booking an aft veranda cabin for $149 per person.
Coincidentally that’s the type of cabin I had last time on this ship (shown in above pic). We then later got an offer to upgrade for a vista suite but decided to stay put.
Anticipation
We’re both looking forward to our vacation starting in four days with precruise night in Fort Lauderdale. Other things I’m excited to experience again are:
- Music walk
- Dutch Cafe
- Earning 3 star Mariner status
Of course, I also know there will be excellent service, beautiful flowers and stunning art as with all Holland America ships.
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