🚢✨ Our Nile River Cruise Adventure with Travel Journaling 🌟🏺

 

🚢✨ Experience the Magic of Egypt 🌟🏺

It was such a joy to truly connect with people I’ve worked with for years, to share in the excitement of discovery, and to create memories together. I came home feeling inspired and incredibly grateful for the relationships that have grown through our shared passion for exploring the world.

One of the absolute highlights of my travel career happened this past year: I hosted a river cruise in Egypt with a wonderful group of clients, and it was nothing short of magical. From sailing the Nile to exploring ancient temples and sharing stories over dinner, the experience reminded me why I love what I do — not just planning trips, but traveling with you.

We traveled with Avalon Waterways

The Nile is more than a river; it’s a crucial source of life in the desert. Sailing along we saw the stark contrast between golden sands and green fields. While also soaking in the awe-inspiring beauty of the Temple of Philae, the grandeur of the Valley of the Kings, and magnificence of the iconic temples of Luxor and Karnak. Each stop unveiled a new chapter of Egypt’s rich history and culture.

From local markets to traditional crafts, our Nile cruise allowed us to immerse ourselves in the culture of Egypt. And we certainly took the chance to taste authentic Egyptian cuisine and engage with friendly locals.

Cairo was our first stop, and it made a powerful impression. The city is alive with contrasts — modern life pulses alongside remnants of one of the world’s oldest civilizations. But the true highlight came just outside the city: the Giza Pyramids. Standing before these monumental structures, I was completely awestruck. Pictures don’t do justice to their scale and presence. The Great Pyramid, in particular, left me speechless. It’s one thing to read about the pharaohs in history books, and quite another to stand where they once ruled, surrounded by ancient stone that has withstood the sands of time.

After soaking in Cairo’s iconic landmarks, we boarded our Avalon Waterways cruise ship for a journey down the Nile. The cruise offered a peaceful contrast to the busy streets of Cairo. The ship was luxurious and comfortable, and the views along the river were breathtaking — palm-lined shores, timeless villages, and glimpses of daily life unfolding just as it has for centuries.

Each day brought us to a new ancient wonder. We explored temples dedicated to gods and goddesses of old, each adorned with intricate hieroglyphics. These carvings became one of my favorite aspects of the trip. The sheer artistry and storytelling etched into the stone walls were mesmerizing. In places like Karnak and Luxor Temples, the walls came alive with scenes of pharaohs, rituals, and mythology. Even though I couldn’t read the symbols, their meaning was palpable. You could feel the reverence and the grandeur of an ancient civilization that held knowledge and beauty in equal measure.

Our guide was exceptional, adding depth and context to everything we saw. Whether explaining the engineering feats of the ancient Egyptians or pointing out hidden details in the artwork, he helped bring the past to life in vivid color.

Capture Every Moment:  Travel Journaling ✍️📓

Laura, Cheri, Shanta & Sara working on their Travel Journals.

This was our Second Annual Travel Journaling River Cruise.  Our first was in France.  With Travel Journaling, we have combined our love for scrapbooking, sketching, and card making all in one place to create a timeless keepsake of this once in a lifetime adventure!

This special keepsake allowed us to record our thoughts, observations, and reflections throughout our journey.  We documented daily highlights by noting down the sights, sounds, and feelings of each day. 

Some of us added sketches of the landscapes and architectural details that inspired us. Even a simple doodle can capture the essence of a moment.  I also loved to tuck in tickets, postcards, or small souvenirs that help me remember my experiences from the trip! As well a picture of two from the day!

🚢 Why Choose a Nile River Cruise?

Whether you’re a history buff, a culture enthusiast, or simply looking to unwind amidst stunning landscapes, a Nile River cruise promises an adventure like no other. Pack your bags, bring your curiosity, and don’t forget your camera.

Is Egypt on your Bucket List?   There are multiple suppliers to choose from:  AmaWaterways, Avalon Waterways, Viking River Cruises, Globus and more.  We'd be happy to discuss each of your options and help you plan your next dream vacation to Egypt.  Call us today to start planning.

✨ Be sure to check out our 3^rd Annual Travel Journaling River Cruise on the Danube in 2026!  https://www.cruiseandcrop.com/CroppingOnTheDanube.html

#NileCruise #EgyptAdventure #TravelDreams #ExploreEgypt #TravelJournal

🚢✨ Set Sail on the Majestic Danube: Danube River Cruise with Travel Journaling ✨🚢

 

🚢✨ Set Sail on the Majestic Danube: Danube River Cruise with Travel Journaling ✨🚢

Imagine a journey where breathtaking landscapes, rich history, and luxurious relaxation come together seamlessly—this is what a Danube River cruise offers. As you glide along this majestic river, you’ll be treated to ever-changing scenery, from rolling hills and lush vineyards to dramatic castles.

The Danube is a cultural treasure trove, connecting cities like Vienna and Regensburg that are steeped in history and charm.  Take a day trip to Salzburg, a storybook city surrounded by alpine peaks and best known as the home of Mozart and The Sound of Music.

Every stop along the Danube offers unique experiences, from historic landmarks and charming towns to breathtaking natural beauty. Let the river guide you through Europe’s heart, creating unforgettable memories along the way!

📸 Capture Every Moment:  Travel Journaling 📓 🖊️

This will be our Third Annual Travel Journaling River Cruise.

Much like scrapbooking, Travel journaling is a powerful way to capture the essence of your adventures and preserve fleeting memories.

Travel Journaling while cruising on the Danube will allow you to document the awe-inspiring landscapes, from the rolling hills of the Wachau Valley to the Medieval town in Regensburg. Record your reflections on the rich history and vibrant cultures of each city, from Vienna’s imperial charm to Budapest’s eclectic vibe. Jot down the little moments that make your trip special—perhaps a unique culinary experience, a new friendship made on board, or a quiet moment of awe as you gaze at a historic landmark.

A travel journal not only preserves your memories but also enhances your journey, helping you to relive and reflect on the incredible experiences you encounter along the Danube.

⚓ For additional details and pricing, visit our website:  https://www.cruiseandcrop.com/CroppingOnTheDanube.html 

✨ Not able to cruise in 2026?  Be sure to check-out our 2027 River cruise through Holland and Belgium. Spots still available!  https://www.cruiseandcrop.com/CroppingOnTheRiver2027.html

 

#DanubeCruise #TravelEurope #ScenicViews #CulturalJourney #GourmetTravel #RelaxInStyle #traveljournal

Our Alaska Experience

Embark on an Unforgettable Alaskan Cruise: Your Ultimate Guide to the Last Frontier

Alaska, often referred to as "The Last Frontier," is a land of rugged beauty and untouched wilderness.  An Alaskan cruise is a gateway to this majestic region, offering travelers unparalleled views of icy landscapes, glacial fjords, and diverse wildlife.

Whether you’re a seasoned cruiser or a first-time adventurer, here’s a step-by-step comprehensive guide to making the most of your Alaskan cruise.

I’ve cruised to Alaska three times, and each trip has been unique and unforgettable.

The first was a round-trip from Vancouver with Royal Caribbean when I was in high school. I traveled with my family and some close family friends—it was a great introduction to the beauty of Alaska.

The second cruise was a southbound journey from Whittier to Vancouver with Princess Cruise Line. My husband and I took that trip to celebrate our 10th anniversary, joined by our best friends. Before setting sail, we spent two extra days in Anchorage, which gave us time to explore the city and take a side trip to Alyeska.

The third time, we cruised northbound from Vancouver to Seward with Royal Caribbean again. This time, we brought our two eldest children, who were thrilled to enjoy some quality one-on-one time with us—without their younger brothers in tow!

Each trip offered new experiences and fresh perspectives, and I’m still eager to go back. Next time, I’d love to add on a land tour through northern Alaska to see Denali and Fairbanks. If you have the time, including the land package is truly the best way to get the full Alaska experience.

Step 1. Choose the Right Time to Go

Alaska’s cruise season typically runs from late May to early September. Each period offers unique advantages:

Early Summer (May - June): Expect fewer crowds, cooler temperatures, and a chance to witness the stunning midnight sun.

Peak Summer (July - August): Warmest temperatures and longer days make this the best time for outdoor activities and wildlife sightings. However, it’s also the busiest period.

Late Summer (September): Offers fewer tourists, cooler temperatures, and the possibility of catching the Northern Lights, though some excursions might be closed as the season winds down.

Step 2. Pick Your Itinerary

Alaskan cruises generally fall into two main categories:

Inside Passage: This popular route takes you through the protected waters between the mainland and the coastal islands. Highlights include Juneau, Ketchikan, and Skagway, as well as breathtaking scenic cruising through Glacier Bay and the Hubbard Glacier.

Gulf of Alaska: This route covers a wider swath of the state, including stops in places like Anchorage and Seward. It offers a more varied experience, combining the Inside Passage with more remote areas and often more opportunities for adventure.

Step 3. Prepare for All Weather

Alaska's weather can be unpredictable. Layers are essential: think waterproof jackets, thermal wear, and comfortable walking shoes. Be prepared for sudden changes, as temperatures can vary widely even within a single day.

The first two times I visited Alaska I had amazing weather.  Unfortunately my 2024 visit brought light rain and fog for most of the trip.  I wished I had brought better rain gear (and made sure my kids packed appropriately).

Step 4. Embrace the Activities and Explore Shore Excursions

An Alaskan cruise is not just about the destination but the journey and activities along the way.

From whales and sea lions to bears and eagles, Alaska’s wildlife is diverse and plentiful.

You can learn about Alaskan native cultures through local museums, historical sites, and indigenous art. Some cruises also offer cultural performances and storytelling.

Most cruises offer a range of shore excursions that can enhance your chances of sightings and experiences. These can be booked in advance or on-board. Popular options include:

Glacier Tours: Witnessing glaciers up close is a highlight. Options include boat tours, kayaking, and even guided hikes on glaciers.

Dog Sledding: Experience a thrilling ride with a team of Alaskan sled dogs. Some tours offer the chance to learn about dog sledding history and training.

Fishing Trips: Alaska’s waters are famed for their salmon and halibut fishing. Whether you're a seasoned angler or a novice, these trips provide a chance to reel in a big catch.

 Zip Lining: Soar through the treetops on an exhilarating zip line adventure, where you'll experience breathtaking aerial views of Alaska's lush rainforests and rugged landscapes.

We rode the zip-line at Icy Strait Point, and it was an unforgettable experience! Some of our friends were nervous about heights and found both the gondola ride up and the zip-line descent a bit intimidating. As for me, I absolutely loved it! I do wish the weather had been clearer—less fog and rain would’ve made it even better—but overall, it was a thrilling adventure I’d definitely recommend to anyone who’s feeling bold and up for a challenge.

Kayaking: Paddle through serene, glacial waters on a guided kayaking tour, immersing yourself in the tranquil beauty of Alaska's pristine fjords while spotting marine wildlife up close.

One of my all-time favorite tours in Alaska was kayaking on a mountain lake near Haines. We were completely immersed in nature, surrounded by wildlife, and the experience was incredibly peaceful.

Scenic Railroads: The White Pass & Yukon Route is a historic train journey that provides panoramic views of the Alaskan landscape.

Step 6. Capture the Memories

The Alaskan landscape offers breathtaking vistas at every turn. Make sure to have your camera ready and don’t forget to pack binoculars for wildlife watching!

On our way from Seward to Anchorage, we took an all-day tour that included a stop at the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center.  It was a great way to end our trip and see many more animals that may have been missed on our trip.

Step 7. Respect the Environment

Alaska’s pristine environment is a treasure that requires responsible tourism. Follow guidelines for wildlife interactions, stay on marked trails, and be mindful of leaving no trace.

So, if you are still asking, “Why an Alaskan Cruise?”

An Alaskan cruise is more than a vacation—it’s an adventure into one of the world’s most stunning and remote regions. From the icy grandeur of glaciers to the rich tapestry of native cultures and the thrill of wildlife encounters, every moment offers a chance to connect with nature and experience something truly extraordinary. So, pack your bags, prepare for an awe-inspiring journey, and get ready to explore the wild beauty of Alaska!

Check out this video as I chat with Sara about our recent Alaska trip:  https://youtu.be/9VM2-PY3WA8

Ready to set sail? Your Alaskan adventure awaits!  Call us to start planning.

Los Angeles gets a new cruise ship!

Ovation of the Seas sails from LA

Sailing from Los Angeles just got a upgrade!  Starting June 2025 you'll be able to sail on the Ovation of the Seas on short cruises to Catalina & Ensenada.  Call us to book your next Baja adventure.  352-527-8473 or e-mail cthomas@dreamvacations.com 

BIGGER. BOLDER. BAJA BOUND

The biggest, boldest Baja getaway begins June 2025, when Ovation of the Seas®joins Navigator of the Seas® as the region’s newest star. This Quantum Class headliner is the first of its kind to sail from Los Angeles — with record-breaking memory-making and revolutionary thrills. Scope the scenery from Catalina to Ensenada on the tallest viewing deck on a cruise ship, North Star®. Bounce bumper cars with your adventure crew at the SeaPlex® and hang ten high above the Pacific on the FlowRider® surf simulator before an unforgettable overnight in Cabo. You’ve never done Mexico like this before.

LOOKING FOR A CRAFTING CRUISE?

Cruise & Crop from LA on these future dates (on other ships):

STAMPTILDAWN
October 20 - 24, 2025 | 4-night cruise out of Los Angeles, CA
Royal Caribbean's Navigator of the Seas
Embark on a Stamptildawn crafting adventure at sea with Dawn Heuft & Gail Vought.

CRAFT & CRUISE MEXICO
January 7 - 13, 2026 | 6-night cruise out of Los Angeles, CA
Royal Caribbean's Quantum of the Seas
Cruising, crafting, prizes, goody bags, excursions, beaches & so much more...The best vacation ever! With Tracy Allen

What has been your favorite cruise?  Have you sailed from Los Angeles?  Leave a comment below.

https://cthomas.dreamvacations.com

www.CruiseAndCrop.com

Review of the Society Islands - on Paul Gauguin Cruises

Our associate, Suzi Mitchell, took a trip of a life-time this summer to the Society Islands on Paul Gauguin Cruises.  Here are her thoughts on this amazing trip.

"To describe our experience here as magical is an understatement. The scenery is spectacular but the Tahitian people are what makes this place so special. Their spirit, smiles, and sense of humor welcome you like a warm hug."

I just got back from taking a long awaited cruise aboard the Paul Gauguin. It was everything I had hoped for and more. Tahiti, Bora Bora, Moorea and Huahine all delivered...the picturesque beauty of the Society Islands is incredible. But the Polynesian people, their spirit, sense of humor and respect for their culture is what makes this place so magical. And then there is the Gauguin. With only 185 passengers onboard for our sailing, we were outnumbered by the staff. The ship was pristine, we had the best cabin (A category C, cabin 767 has the biggest, non suite balcony and the best view off the back of the ship...grab it early) and every single person we encountered were wonderful. And by day 2, many had already remembered our names. It was the best service I have ever experienced.

I was also able to book the marina dinner for the two other couples traveling with us. I highly recommend it. This exclusive one night only (weather permitting) event is held on their floating marina platform off the back of the ship. Les Gauguines and Les Gauguins serenaded us as we arrived. Then we all climbed into a zodiac for a champagne and sunset cruise. Afterwards, we sat down to a beautiful 5 course dinner and were served amazing wines. It was an evening none of us will forget. If you plan to travel on the Gauguin, try to get this booked. I did it almost two years in advance.

The travel time, testing and Covid protocols ARE a challenge. See it through they said. It will be so worth it. And they were right.

That's my good news for today! Thanks for taking the time to read my review.

Thanks for sharing your trip with us Suzi! To book your next trip on Paul Gauguin, give us a call 1-800-645-1481.

3rd Annual Cropping on the River

Crop with Cheri & Sara...

Our crop includes 4 full days of crafting with at least 4 feet of work space, daily make'n'takes, a drink of the day (Friday, Saturday & Sunday) plus an optional Sunset Cruise on the Crystal River.

January 13 - 16, 2023

All paper-crafters welcome!  Whether you make cards, layouts, mini-albums or have a different crafting passion, you are welcome to join us.  

 

Crafting kits will be available for purchase before and during the crop.

 

It's so much more than a crop...

 

Do you or your loved one live to be on the water?  Crystal River offers many activities that you'll want to include in your package.  Boating, Snorkeling, Kayaking, Swimming in natural springs, Manatee Tours.... and did we mention it's the same weekend as the Florida Manatee Festival?  Inquire with Cheri & Sara how to add-on these memorable pastimes.

 

The Plantation on Crystal River also offers golf, tennis, pickle-ball, shuffleboard and other outdoor lawn games.

 

Or maybe the Spa is more your speed.  Pre-book your spa treatments prior to arrival.

 

Space is limited...{and already more than half full}

For all the details and to register, go to:  www.CruiseAndCrop.com/CroppingOnTheRiver.html

September Scrapbooking Retreat

 

Cropping on the River

Who is ready for an in-person crop!?!

Cruise & Crop is hosting a crop in our own hometown at a resort located on the beautiful Crystal River.  Join us!  Check out this short video for a preview of our event.

 

Crop with Cheri & Sara...

Our crop includes 3 full days of crafting with at least 4 feet of work space, daily make'n'takes, a drink of the day (Friday & Saturday) plus a Sunset Cruise on the Crystal River.

All paper-crafters welcome!  Whether you make cards, layouts, mini-albums or have a different crafting passion, you are welcome to join us.  

 

Crafting kits will be available for purchase before and during the crop.

 

It's so much more than a crop...

 

Do you or your loved one live to be on the water?  Crystal River offers many activities that you'll want to include in your package.  Boating, Snorkeling, Kayaking, Swimming in natural springs, Manatee Tours.... and did we mention it's Scalloping Season?  Inquire with Cheri & Sara how to add-on these memorable pastimes.

 

The Plantation on Crystal River also offers golf, tennis, pickle-ball, shuffleboard and other outdoor lawn games.

 

Or maybe the Spa is more your speed.  Pre-book your spa treatments prior to arrival.

 

Space is limited...{and already more than half full}

For all the details and to register, go to:  www.CruiseAndCrop.com/CroppingOnTheRiver.html

International Summer Sailings - Let's Get Cruising!

Cruising is returning in a big way this Summer.  Check out all of these cruise options sailing from ports around the globe starting June 2021.  These are NEW sailings just added by the cruise lines and are assured to sail.  Then give us a call to book your next Dream Vacation!  (352) 527-8473

Celebrity Cruises

• Celebrity Millennium - Beginning June 5 - Sailing from St. Maarten
• Celebrity Apex - Beginning June 19 - Sailing from Athens, Greece

Crystal Cruises

• Serenity - Beginning July 3 - Sailing from Nassau or Bimini
• Symphony - Beginning August 5 - Sailing from Antigua & Barbados
• Endeavor - Beginning July 17 - Sailing from Reykjavik, Iceland

Norwegian Cruise Line

• Norwegian Jade - Beginning July 25 - Sailing from Athens, Greece
• Norwegian Joy - Beginning August 7 - Sailing from Montego Bay, Jamaica
• Norwegian Gem - Beginning August 15 - Sailing from Dominican Republic

Royal Caribbean Cruise Line

• Adventure of the Seas - Beginning June 12 - Sailing from Nassau, Bahamas
• Vision of the Seas - Beginning June 26 - Sailing from Bermuda
• Jewel of the Seas - Beginning July 10 - Sailing from Cyprus

Seabourn

• ms Ovation - Beginning July 3 - Sailing from Athens, Greece

Silversea

• Silver Moon - Beginning June 18 - Sailing from Greece

Viking

• Viking Orion - Beginning June 15 - Sailing from Bermuda
• Viking Sky - Beginning June 26 - Sailing from Reykjavik, Iceland

Click link for details about our current sale - ending April 30, 2021.
https://cthomas.dreamvacations.com/Promo

Cruising Returns This Summer!

 

We have some exciting news to share with you – 

cruising returns this Summer!

Ready to feel the ocean breeze and cruise on island time this summer? You can finally turn your cruise vacation dreams into reality! After the long-anticipated return to cruising, you can finally set sail with Crystal Cruises, Royal Caribbean, or Celebrity Cruises THIS Summer onboard a dreamy cruise through the Caribbean.

Bookings opened March 18th for Crystal Cruises with a tremendous response, and we expect the same when bookings open with Royal Caribbean on March 24th and Celebrity Cruises on March 25th. If you’re interested in booking these sailings, we encourage you to reach out to us right away, as these sailings are likely to sell out fast. In fact, last week Viking announced that they would be cruising from the United Kingdom this spring, and they sold out in one day!

• Crystal Serenity will begin sailing on July 3rd with a 7-night itinerary featuring more than 30 departures traveling round-trip from Nassau or Bimini.
   
• Celebrity Cruises will set sail on June 5th out of tropical St. Maarten on the Celebrity Millennium with two 7-night itinerary offerings that include Aruba, Curacao, Barbados, Tortola, and St. Lucia.
   
• Royal Caribbean’s Adventure of the Seas will sail from Nassau, Bahamas beginning June 12th with 7-night cruises to Cozumel, Mexico, and a sampling of popular Bahamian ports including a two-day stay to enjoy Perfect Day at CocoCay.

As always, your health and safety are our top priority. Each cruise line has unique health and safety requirements, some of these requirements have been announced and other requirements will be announced at a later date. Please contact me and we can review the specific requirements together.

We can’t wait to wish you “Bon Voyage” one day soon! Stay tuned over the coming weeks and months as we will continue to keep you updated.
 

Vacations are what bring us together! #LetsGetTraveling

Call Cheri to book your next Dream Vacation!

1-800-645-1481

200 Cruise & Crop Cruises!

We just reached a HUGH milestone!

Cruise & Crop started back in 2006 and hosted only a few cruises in their first couple of years.  As our company grew, and word got out about how fun our scrapbooking and card making cruises are, our numbers of available cruises increased year over year.  

We were saddened to see about 30 of our cruises suspended during the Covid Pandemic.  And although we should have celebrated our 200th cruise in April 2020, we are happy to hit this milestone even when ships are not sailing. 

In October 2020, we hosted our first Virtual Cruise & Crop with 100 participants.  We sailed for 7-days around the world and visited (virtually) Cozumel, Barcelona, Passau, Canada, Rome, Hawaii, Alaska & the Caribbean.  We participated in 14 classes as well as a pre and post-cruise extension.  This virtual cruised marked our 199th cruise.

In February 2021, we hosted our second Virtual Cruise & Crop with 150 participants and we were able to celebrate our 200th cruise!  This year we visited Riviera Maya, Athens, Avignon, USA National Parks, the Mississippi River, Bermuda & Salzburg.  We enjoyed 14 classes as well as two optional Shore Excursion Classes.

Stay tuned for more virtual events and class kits available soon.

Cheers to you!  Thank you for all of your support over the last 15 years.  We are looking forward to helping you plan so many more crafting cruises.  See you on the seven seas real soon!

Who is the one person you shouldn't travel without?

 
As your dedicated travel advisor, I want to help you start experiencing the joy and fun that your vacation will bring. We are memory creators, travel miracle workers, friends, confidantes, and most importantly your travel advocate. As your full-service travel advisor, you are our top priority. We know you already have so much to do and limited time to do it; that is why we are committed to making your entire vacation planning process as enjoyable and seamless as possible. All you have to do is pack and go!

The world is changing every day and it is hard to keep up. When it comes to all things travel, we have you covered and will keep you informed before, during, and after your vacation. By working closely with cruise lines, resorts, tour operators, and more, we are well-versed in navigating the latest travel and safety protocols, offering you peace of mind when you are ready to travel.

When it comes to creating your dream vacation, your wish is our command. We are keen listeners when it comes to learning what is important to you. Based on your needs, wants and desires, we are focused on creating a vacation that meets your budgetary needs and exceeds all expectations. Your vacation will be everything you imagined, and more!

We all appreciate having a little more cash in our pockets. We work on your behalf to get the best value for your investment and offer you the best deals – you won’t find better prices booking directly with a travel supplier – such as a cruise line, resort or tour operator. And we negotiate exclusive offers in addition to current offers in the marketplace. Better yet, these exclusive offers are found nowhere else and can range from pre-paid gratuities, drink packages, vacation spending money, dining credits, excursions, and so much more.

Travel advisors save you valuable time and money! Make sure to call your travel advisor when booking your next vacation.
 

Vacations are what bring us together! #LetsGetTraveling

A Healthy Return to Cruising

 

Who's ready to start cruising?!?!  I know that I am!!

Royal Caribbean's Healthy Sail Panel has just published their list of recommendations to safely resume operations. You can find the full report via the link below. Hopefully these suggestions will help us get back on the oceans very soon.

There is nothing out of the ordinary - many of the same types of suggestions are you seeing being implemented in your home towns. And many of the recommendations can be scaled down, modified, or discontinued over time (such as temperature checks and face masks).

I have always felt that cruise ships did an excellent job of keeping the ships clean and encouraging good hygiene for the crew and guests. Much of what the Panel recommended seemed in line with what the ships have been doing for years. The Panel encouraged additional screenings before and during the cruise - particularly for their crew members.

I'm hopeful that by the time the ships are sailing, these pandemic related recommendations (particularly face coverings) will be discontinued pretty quickly. I think we are all in agreement that wearing a mask onboard is not the vacation environment that we dream about.

The report did not touch specifically on food service or entertainment venues. But it seems logical that if everyone onboard is healthy, there is not much change necessary. Time will tell if changes will be made in regards to distancing.

Suggestion 59 talks about onshore experiences. "During the initial return to sailing, cruise operators should only allow guests debarking from a ship at a destination port to participate in cruise line-sponsored or verified excursions as a way of limiting potential exposures in the destinations they visit." As they become available, we'll be sure to point our clients to these "verified excursions" to aid in offering a wonderful vacation experience.

View the full report here...

https://www.royalcaribbean.com/content/dam/royal/resources/pdf/healthy-sail-panel-full-recommendations.pdf

Comment below the date of your next cruise and tell us what you are most excited about experiencing onboard. I'm booked in March 2021 on the Harmony of the Seas and I can't wait to sail with my extended family and plunge down the Ultimate Abyss.

Not yet booked? Take advantage of Royal Caribbean's Cruise with Confidence Policy and book your next trip by September 30, 2020. Give us a call to book your next dream vacation. 1-800-645-1481

Sincerely,

Cheri