It seems like we were just here. That's because we were….like last Saturday. Weather conditions were much the same today, with some deep swells and winds that we thought may have cancelled the visit. We knew that the Rotterdam was going to be here as well today, but when we arrived this morning, it was nowhere to be seen. Strangely enough, a Carnival ship followed us here from Ft. Lauderdale, and we figured that was our companion for the day. We found out within an hour after we arrived at 8am, that the Rotterdam was our visitor, but she arrived an hour later after 9am.
At Club Orange breakfast this morning, we found that only three couples, including ourselves, were back to enjoy it. Everyone else was new. Missing was the manager, Wayan, who has brightened up our day just by being here. He has moved to the dining room for this cruise, since he will be going home. A new manager took over today, and will undoubtedly do a fine job as well. We also remembered to get two apples for our buddy, Ted. We are certain they are on to us, as we did this two days ago.
We left the ship after the thundering herd got off….somewhere around 10am. A group of us had gathered on deck A to wait for the next tender. It turned out to be one of the island's smallest ones. Boarding on the top deck, we were instructed to go down the steep stairs to the lower enclosed deck. Not wanting to be confined to such a tight space with no air, we stayed on the back of the deck where there was one bench. The fumes choked us as we waited for the boat to leave.
The ride was quick, which was good, as it was rocky at times. Hope we get back, as the swells and wind could make things dicey. By now, the Rotterdam had re-positioned to have the bow into the wind. That was the only way they could safely board their guests. Now it was a race to get the folks ashore. We exited on the left of the channel, while the larger tender took the regular spot.
Walking towards the beach trail, we found that most of the cabanas had been rented. No surprise, because there were double the people here today. Just a reminder, the smaller cabanas rented for $450 per person (wonder if this quote is a mistake?), but do they come with fresh fruit and veggies, floating mats, and snorkel gear. There was no price listed for the larger ones, but we recall they were expensive and included a butler. Obviously, they had all been taken. Horseback riding was $100, while renting a clamshell with two lounges ran $40 per person. The least expensive ride was $25 per person for the Calypso island tram. It took folks to the inner lagoon, the sting ray adventure and the kayak/jet ski area. Those excursions were extra.
As for us, we simply enjoyed our vigorous walk in the soft sand and cool surf. Reaching the end where the volcanic rocks begin, we took the time to relax and get some sun. Despite the clouds, the heat from the sun was intense at times. The only savior was the breeze, which was strong at times. Of course, we made a stop at the Pegasus Ranch, where the early horse excursion had just finished. All of the horses were in their corral, along with Ted, the donkey. The horses seem to tolerate him, but it became obvious to us that he is on the low end of the pecking order. Showing him our Club Orange bag, he trotted over, knowing we had something for him. Two horses spotted this, and came right over, nipping at poor Ted. Being smaller, he moved away. But not too far. So one apple went to the two horses, while we saved one for Ted, who munched it quickly. Just by his amusing actions, we guessed he wanted more, which we did not have. Next time Ted. Now a funny thing happened, when we saw a sign on the corral railing stating - do not feed the horses. Oops….did not see that. At least, it did not say - do not feed the donkey. It was OK because one of the wranglers was there watching us and said nothing. Probably, he remembered seeing us before. And besides, another couple we know from the ship also brought apples after reading this blog. So Ted is well fed.
Time to head on to the next stop at Captain Morgan's on the Rocks. We had a date with a beer and a strawberry daiquiri, naturally. It was busier with the extra customers, but they still closed down by 1:10pm, and loaded up the left over cans and bottles. If we understood the bartender correctly, these were our staff, and once they cleaned up, another crew would appear from the Rotterdam. Whether or not this happened, we will never know, as we do not know anyone on that ship that would know.
We got back to the tender loading area, and waited for the next boat to arrive. Our group was large, since it included many of our crew members. Assuming we would take the larger boat back, we were led to the small one again. This time we waited for the majority of folks to board, then went on when the inside cabin filled up. No choice but to go upstairs and sit in the breeze. Lucky it was a short ride. We have to mention that very few people wore masks even on the tender boats. They are not mandatory now, but we still keep ours on when you expect close quarters like today. Social distancing goes out the window on these transfers to shore.
Spending the rest of the afternoon in our room, we watched as the ship left her sister behind. We are now headed to the Grand Turks and Caicos, tomorrow's port of call. We should have had a time change…an hour ahead, but it was not written in tomorrow's When and Where.
Going to the first gala dinner, we noticed that the casino was loaded with gamblers. The most we have seen yet. However, the Rock & Roll group had the smallest crowd. The comedian in Lincoln Center had filled the room. This is a much different crowd than ones on past cruises. And there are more of them, as we have over 1000 passengers now. FYI – few guests dressed nicely for this gala occasion.
Dinner was great with starters of a shrimp cocktail, Caesar salads, and rack of lamb. Cooked perfectly, the lamb with an added potato, was served hot as could be. The tables surrounding us had two guests at each table, so it remained quiet for most of the evening. There was birthday celebration for one couple, where the waiters gathered and had their fun singing the special song.
By the time we finished our meal, most of the guests had left the room. By the way, the upper dining room had been opened for the first seating, but only on one side. Then it was closed for the second time slot.
We had the special little boxes of chocolates waiting for us in our room. And earlier in the day, we were gifted with more spa coupons for $70 worth of spa treatments or services. These are the third set we have received, but have yet to take advantage of the offer. Time for a haircut………
Bill & Mary Ann
Tuesday, March 8, 2022
Report #80 Half Moon Cay, Bahamas Monday-March 7, 2022 Sunny With Clouds And Windy 80 Degrees
