Nov 18, 2023
Written By: J.Couch
A Memorable Cruise Finale with Friends
This morning greeted us with lingering clouds and rain, yet the weather improved, transitioning into partly cloudy, sunny skies, promising a better day than the preceding night. Joining our group for breakfast in the main dining room, we explored the menu for plant-based options. Coming up empty the kitchen was able to customized a delightful veggie bowl, sans egg and cheese, enhanced with a touch of hot sauce.
After breakfast, we ventured to the pool, braving the winds to enjoy a relaxing time. The highlight of the day was the water slides – three exhilarating options, including the thrilling orange slide that spins riders around before a dramatic descent. Following our aquatic escapades, we sought the wave machine at the back of the boat, attempting knee boarding and reveling in the challenge.
Cleaning up for our final show, we stopped by the Windjammer for a quick salad and returned to our room. The evening’s entertainment, “Effectors II Crash & Burn,” unfolded in the Royal Theater, showcasing four superheroes and two villains. While not a personal favorite, the drones, lasers, and music added some appeal, though the high sound levels left room for improvement. Somehow with the excessively loud music, Kim was able to sneak in a quick nap.
Post-show, we retreated to the solarium for a couple of Rummikub rounds, discovering hidden ducks along the way – a delightful addition to our cruise memories. We just took pictures of the ducks and hide them again in different places so others could enjoy finding them too. If we do go on a cruise again, we would take our own and hide them around the ship too. The solarium offered a serene atmosphere and the spacious tables made for an enjoyable gaming experience.
As the cruise approached its conclusion, we returned to our room, contemplating the bittersweet reality of our last dinner with friends. All the employees did a final dance around the dining room, expressing their thankfulness for the week. The impending departure loomed large, with the group dispersing to pack and place their bags in the hallway for collection. Opting to carry our luggage off the boat, we changed into swimsuits and savored one last relaxing soak in the hot tub.
Gathering with the group in Central Park for heartfelt goodbyes, we reflected on the incredible week spent with wonderful friends. Knowing the end was near, we prepared for an early departure, set to disembark at 8 am and head directly to the airport. Returning to our room for the last night of the cruise, we cherished the memories, sad to bid adieu to this extraordinary adventure.
Have you ever found or hid a duck on a cruise? Comment below.
Thanks for wandering with us,
The Wandering Couchs
