Monday, December 6, Harvest Caye, Belize

 

 Some of you may know that NCL purchased this island just off the coast of Belize for the dedicated use of their cruise ships sailing in this part of the Caribbean. We both had scheduled a Spice Farm & Botanical Gardens tour that was sadly cancelled because of lack of participation. The other excursion options had to do with sun, sand and/or salt water. Heeding our dermatologist, we opted to stay onboard.

 

 

Harvest Caye, Belize


You probably know we make a special effort to meet fellow guests (typically via table sharing, enrichment lectures, or other events) as well as many of the staff. This cruise is so different because of COVID safety protocols and mask wearing by all staff & many guests has made the above especially challenging. We have identified several staff from previous cruises; one is Massimo, Cap’s favorite barista. The first day when Cap walked up with his Starbucks mug Massimo said ‘Ah, an Americano.’ He remembered Cap’s typical early AM coffee drink—from a 2018 cruise! That mug, and Suzy’s, will be gifted before we disembark.

For those who don’t know, this isn’t a test; Oceania had her two O Class ships (Marina & Riviera) built by Fincantieri. Yep, Italian firm based in Trieste. They’re building the new Oceania Vista ship launching 2023. Our suite has three wall 10-button ‘control’ panels for all lights as well as several remote controls to open and close drapes. Suzy & I needed remedial training so we called our butler John (Mumbai, India). He started by explaining ‘It’s built in Italy you know.’


Oh, today Cap counted 63 pillows & cushions. Thanks so much Ralph L.
 

 

 

 



 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 


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