The Caribbean is always an appealing region for cruising, especially in colder months. But as ships get bigger and attract more boisterous crowds, much of that appeal is diminished for some of us.
Thankfully, lines like Oceania Cruises cater to older adults, offering excellent itineraries, cuisine and service.
Oceania Marina at Dusk
A beautiful ship with a great itinerary
We sailed on Oceania Marina, one of two new vessels in the Oceania Cruises fleet. Each of these ships holds 1200 passengers with a staff of 800, providing one of the best service ratios at sea. The library is huge and entertainment is first-rate (a wonderful band with twelve singers and dancers, all very talented, puts on several shows during the cruise).
Marina’s elegant atrium
Our cruise began in Miami (now a very efficient port) and visited the Cayman Islands, Cozumel and Costa Maya, Mexico, Honduras, Guatemala and Belize.
Highlights for us were the cooking classes in Cozumel (authentic Mexican recipes); the marvelous Mayan ruins at Chacchoben; our riverboat ride in Guatemala past isolated communities served only by water; and Harvest Caye in Belize, a private island for cruise passengers with a wonderful beach, complimentary shaded loungers and even a zip line.
Lazing at Harvest Cay, a private beach
Food, glorious food!
What stood out most for us, however, was the excellent cuisine!
The main dining room has a changing menu each night with a wide selection of tasty dishes, all beautifully presented.
The four specialty restaurants (all at no extra charge) are among the best at sea.
You can choose among French, Italian, Asian or the Steakhouse. None was disappointing.
Scrumptious shrimp on Marina
What’s appealing to the over-50 luxury traveler?
- Service, food and itinerary – all aimed at grownups.
- Wherever you decide to dine onboard, the cuisine is consistently outstanding.
Take note
- Smoking is still allowed in one corner of the pool deck and the breeze can take the smell all across the deck.
- Excursions, Wi-Fi and wine with dinner or lunch are at an additional cost.
IF YOU GO
Be sure to get the whole scoop on the Nowlans’ Caribbean voyage!
*All photos except lead image: John and Sandra Nowlan
Disclosure:
The authors’ cruise was sponsored by the cruise line.
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