vizzog

September 25, 2018

A post I have put on before when asked about Caribbean ports a few years old now so the prices may not be accurate

Any questions please ask, I have been lucky enough to go to the Caribbean many times over the last 10 years or so.

St Maarten

Port:

Catch the water ferry ($6for an all day wristband maybe a little more) to the beach from the cruiseterminal. Great place we have always stayed in the bay so can’t comment on theisland. It is very American lots of nice bars and the place to buy duty free,jewellery. Sunbeds and brollies on the beach usually in front of the beach barsso someone comes out and you pay them (I think it was $15 for 2 beds last yr) then they will run back and forward if you want drinks or snacks!

Ships excursions we have done here are the Golden Eagle catamaran lovely afternoon cruising down to‘airport’ beach watching the plane land, snorkelling off a lovely beach and loads of rum on the way back! I have also done the America’s cup yachting here a great experience.

Antigua

Port:

The first time we came hereit rained!! So we didn’t go anywhere but walked around the town and had coffee.There are a few nice arty shops if you like that as well as the usual touristyones quite a nice place for a wander.

We have also been kayakinghere out in the mangrove swamps! Also visited one off the small islands on theAtlantic side of Antigua, Bird Island the sea is very rough on that side notfor the faint hearted. It is a very beautiful island so probably a good islandto go out and about there are the English Harbour and Nelsons Dockyard, whichare popular places to visit. If you are a cricket fan there is a cricket touryou and do which visits the test ground and you meet one of the Caribbeancricket stars. We have used the local taxi’s here but do look after yourbelongings, as this is where our youngest son ‘lost’ or had stolen his iphone.Please don’t be put off by this, as 99% of the people on the islands arefriendly. On our last visit here we went on the Crusoe Island excursion this was fantastic, about 40 people on their own island for the day open bar, musicand lunch thoroughly recommend if you are a beach bum.

Dickinson beach break or Coconut grove, nice beach can get busy but big and long enough for all.

Dominica

Port:

There is a warehouse wherethe ship docks, the locals set up a market there so ok for a wander. The town is about a 20-minute walk away not very much there though. We have also docked right in Road Town right in front of the local market depends if there are two ships in port.

We have done the Arial Tram in the rain forest here I liked it. Great for seeing the rainforest, plants,trees and I did see hummingbirds don’t think P&O do this one anymore though.We have also been river tubing here three times we loved it but only great for those who love the water and getting wet. Tried the tubing on the Pagua River in the Carib territory but the journey there and back is very long and over very poor roads so if tubing on the Layou river is available this is a much better option.

We have also visited the waterfalls here and then went to a black sand beach (Mero) for a couple of hours. Not an island for beaches it is a very much a tropical rainforest island with small narrow roads, mountains and valleys you do need to get out of the port to experience it but I would probably always do a ship excursion here due to the roads and terrain if you are late back on a ship tour the ship will always wait for you!

Barbados

The actual cruise terminal has lots of shops etc but walk (about 15mins) or taxi it to Bridgetown a lot more here. As far as beach you could get a taxi to Malibu on Brighton Beach itis about 10 mins from the ship the distillery tour and beach club has now closed but Mount Gay distillery is close by. There are beds and a bit of shade on the beach it is an absolutely beautiful beach

If you take a taxi anywhereon most islands you only pay the driver when he returns to take you back to theship just give yourselves plenty of time to get back before the time they wantyou back onboard. There are lots of things to see and do in Barbados depending on whether you are beach fans, like the fauna and flora things or getting out on the water. My favourite time here was on a catamaran sailing down the coast stopping at Sandy Lane beach then out to a reef to swim with turtles. Most times here though we just walk into Bridgetown then out the other side onto Carlisle Bay for a swim and a beer. (Check it out on Google earth)

St Lucia

We have always gone outhere, there are two cruise terminals the one on the right side of the bay does not have much, on the left side it is much better with shops and bars. Lots of taxi’s offering trips

We have visited Pitons and the volcano. The last couple of times we have got a taxi to Choc beach. There is a small Sandals resort at one end but it is quite quiet there is never that many people there. Unfortunately now this beach is only half as lovely as our first visit as during one rainy season a river overflowed out into the bay, and a lot of sand and palm trees got washed away. We have on our last couple of times gone up to Rodney/ Reduit Bay gets very busy if there area couple of ships in port but it’s a nice beach plenty of bars, shops if you want to wander off the beach. For a first timer in St Lucia I would probably visit the Pitons and the volcano whether you do it in an organised excursion or take one of the local taxi’s maybe share with someone else from the ship. A great independent tour operator is Cosol tours checkout the web page thoroughly recommend it about $75 for the day.

Aruba

On our first visit here ourfriends got married so our day was spent at their wedding! We did go to abeautiful beach for photos after it is an island much like Barbados of whitepowder sand beaches and resort hotels. Our last couple of times here we havecaught the local bus to Eagle beach its only about 5 US dollars return for both of us! The sunbeds and straw umbrella cost us over $20 on the beach and a couple of beers were expensive at $6 dollars each though.

Bonaire

Went to a coral beach (Edenbeach) for snorkelling as the reef is very close to the shore amazing for this as this island is one of the top dive sites in the world, beach shoes are agood idea as the sand is crushed coral We walked off the ship in the afternoon,as there is a small market and craft stalls set up on the quayside and few barsand a couple of drinks in one sharing the table and nearby tree with come ofthe largest iguanas I have ever seen!

Recently we have taken one of the ‘Chiva’ buses around the island seeing the flamingos, salt lakes and the slave huts then stopping off at a lagoon/beach for a couple of hours.

Curacao

First time we visited wedocked right inside Willemstad the floating bridge was opened to let us passthrough. We took a taxi to Sea Aquarium beach nice sandy beach quite close to Willemstad for a couple of hours, although if there are other ships in port this can get quite busy. Then spent a couple of hours in Willemstad across the floating bridge is a nice shopping area, restaurants and bars. Second time here we docked at the Mega pier just outside Willemstad the cruise terminal area has nice bars and shops and you can walk into Willemstad in about 10 minutes. We did a beach transfer here to a beach just a little further up from the Sea Aquarium beach. There is a highly recommended local bus company called Irie Tours, which have a tour, stop at the Curcao distillery, and an hour or so at the beach admission price included all for $20 (also beer and soft drinks!) .

Grenada

The water taxi’s directly next to the ships pier will take you to Grand Anse beach and bring you back again, think the last time we used them it was $5dollars each way? Might have gone up to $6 now, make sure you get some small $bills when getting your holiday money. The water taxi’s run all day every 15 minutes or so. Grand Anse beach is huge so if you are looking for a quiet spot don’t take the first sun beds offered walk further along the beach. There is a market area where sovenirs, cold drinks, food and toilets are available. We no longer go to this beach having found our ‘ideal’ beach a bit further a field the name of which I have been asked not to say!! Grenada is the spice island of the Caribbean so a place to taste and buy the wonderful spices available here we usually go home with a few but jerk chicken is probably the only thing we have cooked at home!

Tortola

We have visited several times here is a brief over view of the excursions we have done as value for money the Tortola excursions are cheaper than the other islands.

Beach transfer – this is usually to Cane Garden Beach a lovely beach but can be crowded if more than one ship is port. This is easily available by local open sided buses and cheaper than the ship excursion costs just allow plenty oftime to get there and back. (Once our buses gear box fell out!! Had to wait forhis mate to come and pick us up luckily it was on the way there so we had allday)

Virgin Gorda – have done this twice it is about a 45 minute ferry or fastmotor boat ride across but it is an amazing place. It does involve quite a bitof walking and if you wish to go to Devils Bay you have to climb up rocks,steps etc, go in water up to your knees and be able to bend down quite low.Again if there is more than one ship docked or a ship tendering off VirginGorda it can be busy. The first time we went here we were lucky enough to bethe only visitors apart from the yatchs and private motor boats, last time itwas very busy as two ships were docked in Tortola and a Silversea cruiser wastendering locally.

Jost Van Dyke – a 45 minute motor boat ride through Sir Francis DrakeChannel takes you to an island on the other side of Tortola where you have acouple of hours on a fine white sand beach White Bay. There are a couple ofbars here and you get a snack and a drink included in the price. Good value anda nice excursion.

Virgin Island Sailaway – did this last time unfortunately we did not havethe greatest of weather quite showery and overcast the whole time. A catamaransails you to Peter Island where you have chance to snorkel. I did enjoy this wesaw rays and an abundance of fish. A stop on Norman Island at a beach club fora drink you can also buy lunch here, the beach is not great but then we did nothave the weather that day. An ok excursion good for a bit of snorkelling and asail on a catamaran (obviously the poor weather made it less enjoyable forus)

Skyworld and Cane Garden Beach – great value if you have not been toTortola you see the island have a great photo opportunity (Skyworld is in facta resturant in the middle of the island where you can go on the roof and seefor miles on a clear day) then go to Cane Garden Beach for lunch and time onthe beach.

St Vincent – not a favourite port the town is quite run down and not agreat deal to do locally. There is a water taxi on the pier which will take youround to Villa beach a narrow beach with a few bars etc can become crowded iflots go there.

Have done the Waterfall and Coast excursion which will take you to the filmset from pirates of the Caribbean, after about an hour or so in a bus so yousee a bit of the island, lunch at a resturant then a cruise back to the port.

Escape to Bequia – a catamaran across to Bequia where you have some time onthe beach and lunch onboard. I loved this as it was very much real sailing as it can be quite gusty and choppy sailingacross but those who don’t have verygood sea legs did find it a problem as it is quite a long way, (my husbandwould not do it again).

Hope you find this useful.

August 7, 2018

A little about some Caribbean ports of call from an old review I did...its quite long :o :D

St Maarten

Port:

Catch the water ferry ($6for an all day wristband last year) to the beach from the cruise terminal.Great place we have always stayed in the bay so can’t comment on the island. Itis very American lots of nice bars and the place to buy duty free, jewellery.Sunbeds and brollies on the beach usually in front of the beach bars so someonecomes out and you pay them (I think it was $10 for 2 beds last yr) then theywill run back and forward if you want drinks or snacks!

Ships excursions we havedone here are the Golden Eagle catamaran lovely afternoon cruising down to‘airport’ beach watching the plane land, snorkelling off a lovely beach andloads of rum on the way back! I have also done the America’s cup yachting herea great experience.

Antigua

Port:

The first time we came hereit rained!! So we didn’t go anywhere but walked around the town and had coffee.There are a few nice arty shops if you like that as well as the usual touristyones quite a nice place for a wander.

We have also been kayaking here out in the mangrove swamps! Also visited one off the small islands on the Atlantic side of Antigua, Bird Island the sea is very rough on that side not for the faint hearted. It is a very beautiful island so probably a good islandto go out and about there are the English Harbour and Nelsons Dockyard, which are popular places to visit. If you are a cricket fan there is a cricket touryou and do which visits the test ground and you meet one of the Caribbean cricket stars. We have used the local taxi’s here but do look after your belongings, as this is where our youngest son ‘lost’ or had stolen his iphone.Please don’t be put off by this, as 99% of the people on the islands are friendly. On our last visit here we went on the Crusoe Island excursion this was fantastic, about 40 people on their own island for the day open bar, musicand lunch thoroughly recommend if you are a beach bum.

Dickinson beach break or Coconut grove, nice beach can get busy but big and long enough for all.

Dominica

Port:

There is a warehouse wherethe ship docks, the locals set up a market there so ok for a wander. The townis about a 20-minute walk away not very much there though. We have also dockedright in Road Town right in front of the local market depends if there are twoships in port.

We have done the Arial Tram in the rain forest here I liked it. Great for seeing the rainforest, plants,trees and I did see hummingbirds don’t think P&O do this one anymore though. We have also been river tubing here three times we loved it but onlygreat for those who love the water and getting wet. Tried the tubing on thePagua River in the Carib territory but the journey there and back is very longand over very poor roads so if tubing on the Layou river is available this is amuch better option.

We have also visited the waterfalls here and then went to a black sand beach (Mero) for a couple of hours. Not an island for beaches it is a very much a tropical rainforest island with small narrow roads, mountains and valleys you do need to get out of the port to experience it but I would probably always do a ship excursion here due to the roads and terrain if you are late back on a ship tour the ship will always wait for you!

Barbados

The actual cruise terminalhas lots of shops etc but walk (about 15mins) or taxi it to Bridgetown a lot more here. As far as beach you could get a taxi to Malibu on Brighton Beach itis about 10 mins from the ship and for about $5 you can have a tour of the distillery. There are beds and a bit of shade on the beach it is an absolutely beautiful beach

If you take a taxi anywhereon most islands you only pay the driver when he returns to take you back to the ship just give yourselves plenty of time to get back before the time they wantyou back onboard. There are lots of things to see and do in Barbados dependingon whether you are beach fans, like the fauna and flora things or getting outon the water. My favourite time here was on a catamaran sailing down the coast stopping at Sandy Lane beach then out to a reef to swim with turtles. Most times here though we just walk into Bridgetown then out the other side onto Carlisle Bay for a swim and a beer. (Check it out on Google earth)

St Lucia

We have always gone outhere, there are two cruise terminals the one on the right side of the bay doesnot have much, on the left side it is much better with shops and bars. Lots oftaxi’s offering trips

We have visited Pitons andthe volcano. The last couple of times we have got a taxi to Wharf Bar on Chocbeach. There is a small Sandals resort at one end but it is quite quiet thereis never that many people there. Unfortunately now this beach is only half aslovely as our first visit as during the rainy season a river flows out into thebay, and a lot of sand and palm trees have been washed away. We have on ourlast couple of times gone up to Rodney/ Reduit Bay gets very busy if there area couple of ships in port but it’s a nice beach plenty of bars, shops if youwant to wander off the beach. For a first timer in St Lucia I would probablyvisit the Pitons and the volcano whether you do it in an organised excursion or take one of the local taxi’s maybe share with someone else from the ship or use Cosol tours great local tour book via website pay after tour.

Aruba

On our first visit here ourfriends got married so our day was spent at their wedding! We did go to abeautiful beach for photos after it is an island much like Barbados of whitepowder sand beaches and resort hotels. Our last couple of times here we havecaught the local bus to Eagle beach its only about 5 US dollars return for both of us! The sunbeds and straw umbrella cost us over $20 on the beach and acouple of beers were expensive at $6 dollars each though.

Bonaire

Went to a coral beach (Edenbeach) for snorkelling as the reef is very close to the shore amazing for this as this island is one of the top dive sites in the world, beach shoes are agood idea as the sand is crushed coral We walked off the ship in the afternoon,as there is a small market and craft stalls set up on the quayside and few bars and a couple of drinks in one sharing the table and nearby tree with come ofthe largest iguanas I have ever seen!

Recently we have taken oneof the ‘Chiva’ buses around the island seeing the flamingos, salt lakes and the slave huts then stopping off at a lagoon/beach for a couple of hours.

Curacao

First time we visited wedocked right inside Willemstad the floating bridge was opened to let us passthrough. We took a taxi to Sea Aquarium beach nice sandy beach quite close toWillemstad for a couple of hours, although if there are other ships in portthis can get quite busy. Then spent a couple of hours in Willemstad across thefloating bridge is a nice shopping area, restaurants and bars. Second time herewe docked at the Mega pier just outside Willemstad the cruise terminal area hasnice bars and shops and you can walk into Willemstad in about 10 minutes. Wedid a beach transfer here to a beach just a little further up from the SeaAquarium beach. There is a highly recommended local bus company called Irie Tours, which have atour, stop at the Curcao distillery, and an hour or so at the beach admissionprice included all for $20 (also beer and soft drinks!). Blue Bay another nice beach not too far away as well.

Grenada

The water taxi’s directly next to the ships pier will take you to GrandAnse beach and bring you back again, think the last time we used them it was $5dollars each way? Might have gone up to $6 now, make sure you get some small $bills when getting your holiday money. The water taxi’s run all day every 15minutes or so. Grand Anse beach is huge so if you are looking for a quiet spot don’t take the first sun beds offered walk further along the beach. There is amarket area where sovenirs, cold drinks, food and toilets are available. We no longer go to this beach having found our ‘ideal’ beach a bit further a fieldthe name of which I have been asked not to say!! Grenada is the spice island ofthe Caribbean so a place to taste and buy the wonderful spices available here we usually go home with a few but jerk chicken is probably the only thing we have cooked at home!

Tortola

We have visited several times here is a brief over view of the excursionswe have done as value for money the Tortola excursions are cheaper than theother islands.

Beach transfer – this is usually to Cane Garden Beach a lovely beach butcan be crowded if more than one ship is port. This is easily available by localopen sided buses and cheaper than the ship excursion costs just allow plenty oftime to get there and back. (Once our buses gear box fell out!! Had to wait forhis mate to come and pick us up luckily it was on the way there so we had allday)

Virgin Gorda – have done this twice it is about a 45 minute ferry or fastmotor boat ride across but it is an amazing place. It does involve quite a bitof walking and if you wish to go to Devils Bay you have to climb up rocks,steps etc, go in water up to your knees and be able to bend down quite low.Again if there is more than one ship docked or a ship tendering off VirginGorda it can be busy. The first time we went here we were lucky enough to bethe only visitors apart from the yatchs and private motor boats, last time itwas very busy as two ships were docked in Tortola and a Silversea cruiser wastendering locally.

Jost Van Dyke – a 45 minute motor boat ride through Sir Francis DrakeChannel takes you to an island on the other side of Tortola where you have acouple of hours on a fine white sand beach White Bay. There are a couple ofbars here and you get a snack and a drink included in the price. Good value anda nice excursion.

Virgin Island Sailaway – did this last time unfortunately we did not havethe greatest of weather quite showery and overcast the whole time. A catamaransails you to Peter Island where you have chance to snorkel. I did enjoy this wesaw rays and an abundance of fish. A stop on Norman Island at a beach club fora drink you can also buy lunch here, the beach is not great but then we did nothave the weather that day. An ok excursion good for a bit of snorkelling and asail on a catamaran (obviously the poor weather made it less enjoyable forus)

Skyworld and Cane Garden Beach – great value if you have not been toTortola you see the island have a great photo opportunity (Skyworld is in facta resturant in the middle of the island where you can go on the roof and seefor miles on a clear day) then go to Cane Garden Beach for lunch and time onthe beach.

St Vincent – not a favourite port the town is quite run down and not agreat deal to do locally. There is a water taxi on the pier which will take youround to Villa beach a narrow beach with a few bars etc can become crowded iflots go there.

Have done the Waterfall and Coast excursion which will take you to the filmset from pirates of the Caribbean, after about an hour or so in a bus so yousee a bit of the island, lunch at a resturant then a cruise back to the port.

Escape to Bequia – a catamaran across to Bequia where you have some time onthe beach and lunch onboard. I loved this as it was very much real sailing as it can be quite gusty and choppy sailingacross but those who don’t have verygood sea legs did find it a problem as it is quite a long way, (my husbandwould not do it again).

Hope you find this useful.

October 20, 2017

We were delayed a day in the Azores on last years Azura's transatlantic with an engine problem, they had to fly out some engineers and a part if I remember correctly. They made up time on the rest of the crossing did it in 4 days not 5, we arrived just a couple of hours late into our first Caribbean port.

September 29, 2017

Our revised itinerary for 3rd Nov has an extra day in Barbados and a visit to Guadeloupe replacing St Maarten and Tortola. It also so says they are optimistic that closed ports will be operational by the end of the year.

August 27, 2017

Hi Folks I'm sure there are many of you who have done this cruise, what can we expect weather-wise. Looking to see what the weather has been like on past cruises, am I likely to be able to sunbathe mid Atlantic or will that have to wait until the Caribbean. Any help much appreciated.
Kind regards Viv

Weather on our Caribbean Transatlantic on Ventura from 2012(I am a sad git and write a daily journal :o!) have also done the same Transatlantic on Azura in 2013 & 2016. :D:cool:

Sat 3 Nov (first day after leaving Southampton)

Woke up 210 miles from Southampton off the Brest peninsular weather scattered clouds and sun but a chilly 10 degrees

Sun 4 Nov

Just off the north coast of Spain still scattered clouds and sun a cool 13 degree today’s course will take us down the coast of Portugal lets hope I can start getting the summer clothes out and the temperature starts rising

Mon 5 Nov

8.30am south of Lisbon heading southwest towards Madeira1000 miles from Southampton weather bright but overcast and 16 degrees

11am balcony door now open the sun is trying to shine and it’s a ‘balmy’ 17 degrees maybe it will reach 20 by this afternoon…yes it did!

Tue 6 Nov

Madeira weather very showery and 18 degrees

Wed 7 Nov

First of five days across the Atlantic broken cloud a few showers 18 degrees, 2700 miles to Tortola not yet level with the Canary Islands so expecting to get warmer once we turn south.

Thu 8 Nov

1000 miles out in the Atlantic sunny and 21 degrees

Fri 9 Nov

Weather really getting hot now midday temperature 27 degrees

Sat 10 Nov

Still 1000 miles to go but 23 degrees at 7am scattered clouds and sun mid twenties by midday again

Sun 11 Nov

3578 miles from Southampton with 475 miles to Tortola overcast but very warm at 26 degrees at 8am

Mon 12 Nov

Land at last Tortola it’s a steaming 27 degrees but heavy showers and sunny intervals typical Tortola weather travelled 4059miles since Southampton

July 29, 2017

Hi,
How did you find the Waterfall and Coast Excursion? Trying to plan for a cruise in December and can't find many reviews. It says the excursion is 7hrs long! My hubby would enjoy the Pirates Set as he's a big fan. I'm between this and Bequia. Its our first Caribbean cruise! :)

The Waterfall and Coast excursion was a ship trip looking at our current cruise personaliser it is now call Waterfall and Coast and is £76 each. It is a 7 hour trip does include lunch, going to a waterfall where you can get in the water if you want to, seeing what is left of the film set from Pirates of the Caribbean. When we did this we went from the port by bus then returned to the ship by catamaran after lunch.

Personally I loved sailing across to Bequia, and visiting Princess Margaret's beach but my husband found it a little rough going across from St Vincent :o.

July 29, 2017

Just booked seats at £25 each outbound and £25 inbound for our November cruise, £100 per couple.

We are travelling with family so have all booked to be next to each other otherwise not sure if I would have booked seats if we were just travelling as a couple. Paid an extra £100 to fly from Birmingham and now another £100 for flight seats :( good job our OBC is pretty good to make up for it

February 21, 2017

We are on the TA on Britannia in October first time on her but not our first transatlantic. Our crossings have always been fairly steady with no really 'rough' weather or storms at all.

Last year was probably the cloudiest and showery to the Azores where we had an extra day as Azura had a problem with a propeller shaft and spares had to be flown in from Germany. We then had to 'race' across to the Caribbean in four days instead of five taking the shortest/fastest route. The crossing even at speed was pretty smooth, we had more showers than previous crossings but possibly there was no time in schedule for the ship to avoid weather ahead.

Below are notes I made from our TA in 2012

Weather on our Caribbean Transatlantic from 2012 (I am a sadgit and write a daily journal!)

Sat 3 Nov (first day after leaving Southampton)

Woke up 210 miles from Southampton off the Brest peninsularweather scattered clouds and sun but a chilly 10 degrees

Sun 4 Nov Just off the north coast of Spain still scattered cloudsand sun a cool 13 degree today’s course will take us down the coast of Portugallets hope I can start getting the summer clothes out and the temperature startsrising

Mon 5 Nov

8.30am south of Lisbon heading southwest towards Madeira1000 miles from Southampton weather bright but overcast and 16 degrees

11am balcony door now open the sun is trying to shine andit’s a ‘balmy’ 17 degrees maybe it will reach 20 by this afternoon…yes it did!

Tue 6 Nov

Madeira weather very showery and 18 degrees

Wed 7 Nov

First of five days across the Atlantic broken cloud a fewshowers 18 degrees, 2700 miles to Tortola not yet level with the Canary Islandsso expecting to get warmer once we turn south.

Thu 8 Nov

1000 miles out in the Atlantic sunny and 21 degrees

Fri 9 Nov

Weather really getting hot now midday temperature 27 degrees

Sat 10 Nov

Still 1000 mile to go but 23 degrees at 7am scattered cloudsand sun mid twenties by midday again

Sun 11 Nov

3578 miles from Southampton with 475 miles to Tortolaovercast but very warm at 26 degrees at 8am

Mon 12 Nov

Land at last Tortola it’s a steaming 27 degrees but heavyshowers and sunny intervals typical Tortola weather travelled 4059 miles sinceSouthampton.

January 1, 2017

Part of a cruise review I did a couple of years ago :D

Weather on our Caribbean Transatlantic from 2012 (I am a sad git and write a daily journal!)

Sat 3 Nov (first day after leaving Southampton)

Woke up 210 miles from Southampton off the Brest peninsular weather scattered clouds and sun but a chilly 10 degrees

Sun 4 Nov

Just off the north coast of Spain still scattered clouds and sun a cool 13 degree today’s course will take us down the coast of Portugal lets hope I can start getting the summer clothes out and the temperature starts rising

Mon 5 Nov

8.30am south of Lisbon heading southwest towards Madeira 1000 miles from Southampton weather bright but overcast and 16 degrees

11am balcony door now open the sun is trying to shine and it’s a ‘balmy’ 17 degrees maybe it will reach 20 by this afternoon…yes it did!

Tue 6 Nov

Madeira weather very showery and 18 degrees

Wed 7 Nov

First of five days across the Atlantic broken cloud a few showers 18 degrees, 2700 miles to Tortola not yet level with the Canary Islands so expecting to get warmer once we turn south.

Thu 8 Nov

1000 miles out in the Atlantic sunny and 21 degrees

Fri 9 Nov

Weather really getting hot now midday temperature 27 degrees

Sat 10 Nov

Still 1000 mile to go but 23 degrees at 7am scattered clouds and sun mid twenties by midday again

Sun 11 Nov

3578 miles from Southampton with 475 miles to Tortola overcast but very warm at 26 degrees at 8am

Mon 12 Nov

Land at last Tortola it’s a steaming 27 degrees but heavy showers and sunny intervals typical Tortola weather travelled 4059 miles since Southampton

September 19, 2016

Thank you for your great view of Azura, we love Azura off again on her in a few weeks cant wait, nice to have a 'happy' positive post thank you.

September 3, 2016

Also on Azura to for the transatlantic this year as we to love her atmosphere.

However we have booked the Britannia for next years transatlantic as there is a 3 week choice and we can't do Azura as she goes a week earlier so includes school half term which I cannot take off work. Hope we enjoy her as much as Azura but regardless it will be great to try her for ourselves

September 2, 2016

Hope this does not put you off too much but this is part of a review from a cruise we did a couple of years ago on Ventura to the Canaries.

Only our opinion and things maybe better now.

Cabin

Our cabin was on E deck a deluxe balcony number E730. First the good bits!! These type of cabins are very comfortable, spacious as you have the additional sofa area and with this one which is furthest aft has a double length balcony measuring approx 18ft long by 9ft wide! However if you do like your rest and a decent nights sleep DO NOT opt for this one!! On booking we did realise the Havana lounge was below what we didn’t know was there are sound system speakers on the ceiling in the Havana directly under the bathroom of our cabin. We did expect possibly we would have some noise from below but what we experienced was bit of a nightmare.

The Havana is the late night disco venue so the music continues until at least 1.00am most nights and some nights it was getting on for 2.30-3am. We had to move our clothes apart in the wardrobe as if the hangers were touching they would clang and rattle from the vibration!! After our first couple of nights we did go the reception and comment on this fact and ask if there was anything that they or we could do but nothing was forth coming. After another couple of nights by nearly 2am my husband was at the end of his tether so went to the Havana only to find the only people there were six P&O crew members.

A stronger complaint was launched and an official comment card submitted the following morning although we received no response or contact over this. Two nights later the music and vibration continued until 3am and again my husband went to the Havana to find only four people still in the venue and again he went to reception and asked if something could be done, the music did then stop about 10mins later. This was now the day before returning to Southampton and this time we did receive a telephone call from the cruise director who said we booked this cabin and the deck plan shows it is above the Havana. Yes we do not disagree however we should have been warned regarding the lateness of this venue and the fact some of the sound system speakers are on the ceiling below the vicinity of this cabin. We have stayed in cabin E720 five doors further up with no problems what so ever. We are now glad to be home and have decent nights sleep, never thought I would be so glad to be home after a cruise.

August 16, 2016

Hi Everyone, We are on our first P and O cruise in November in the Caribbean, doing the following islands : Barbados, Curacao, Aruba, Grenada, St Vincent, St Lucia, Dominica, Antigua, St Maarten and back to Barbados.
What we would like to know is which islands are probably best for sightseeing and which are best for just lazing on the beach?

Thank you in advance:):)

Here is some info I wrote a couple of years ago so the prices are probably a bit out now.

A little about some Caribbean ports of call

St Maarten

Port:

Catch the water ferry ($6 for an all day wristband last year) to the beach from the cruise terminal. Great place we have always stayed in the bay so can’t comment on the island. It is very American lots of nice bars and the place to buy duty free, jewellery. Sunbeds and brollies on the beach usually in front of the beach bars so someone comes out and you pay them (I think it was $10 for 2 beds last yr) then they will run back and forward if you want drinks or snacks!

Ships excursions we have done here are the Golden Eagle catamaran lovely afternoon cruising down to ‘airport’ beach watching the planes land, snorkelling off a lovely beach and loads of rum on the way back! I have also done the America’s cup yachting here a great experience.

Antigua

Port:

The first time we came here it rained!! So we didn’t go anywhere but walked around the town and had coffee. There are a few nice arty shops if you like that as well as the usual touristy ones quite a nice place for a wander.

We have also been kayaking here out in the mangrove swamps! Also visited one off the small islands on the Atlantic side of Antigua, Bird Island the sea is very rough on that side not for the faint hearted. It is a very beautiful island so probably a good island to go out and about there are the English Harbour and Nelsons Dockyard, which are popular places to visit. If you are a cricket fan there is a cricket tour you and do which visits the test ground and you meet one of the Caribbean cricket stars. We have used the local taxi’s here but do look after your belongings, as this is where our youngest son ‘lost’ or had stolen his iphone. Please don’t be put off by this, as 99% of the people on the islands are friendly. On our last visit here we went on the Crusoe Island excursion this was fantastic, about 40 people on their own island for the day open bar, music and lunch thoroughly recommend if you are a beach bum.

Dickinson beach break, nice beach can get busy but big and long enough for all

Dominica

Port:

There is a warehouse where the ship docks, the locals set up a market there so ok for a wander. The town is about a 20-minute walk away not very much there though. We have also docked right in Road Town right in front of the local market depends if there are two ships in port.

We have done the Arial Tram in the rain forest here I liked it. Great for seeing the rainforest, plants, trees and I did see hummingbirds don’t think P&O do this one anymore though. We have also been river tubing here three times we loved it but only great for those who love the water and getting wet. Tried the tubing on the Pagua River in the Carib territory but the journey there and back is very long and over very poor roads so if tubing on the Layou river is available this is a much better option.

We have also visited the waterfalls here a couple of times then on to a black sand beach (Mero) for a couple of hours. Not an island for beaches it is a very much a tropical rainforest island with small narrow roads, mountains and valleys you do need to get out of the port to experience it is a lovely unspoilt island but I would probably always do a ship excursion here due to the roads and terrain, if you are late back on a ship tour the ship will always wait for you!

Barbados

The actual cruise terminal has lots of shops etc but walk (about 15mins) or taxi it to Bridgetown a lot more here. As far as beach you could get a taxi to Malibu on Brighton Beach it is about 10 mins from the ship and for about $5 you can have a tour of the distillery. There are beds and a bit of shade on the beach it is an absolutely beautiful beach

If you take a taxi anywhere on most islands you only pay the driver when he returns to take you back to the ship just give yourselves plenty of time to get back before the time they want you back onboard. There are lots of things to see and do in Barbados depending on whether you are beach fans, like the fauna and flora things or getting out on the water. My favourite time here was on a catamaran sailing down the coast stopping at Sandy Lane beach then out to a reef to swim with turtles. Most times here though we just walk into Bridgetown then out the other side onto Carlisle Bay for a swim and a beer. (Check it out on Google earth)

St Lucia

We have always gone out here, there are two cruise terminals the one on the right side of the bay does not have much, on the left side it is much better with shops and bars. Lots of taxi’s offering trips

We have visited Pitons and the volcano. The last couple of times we have got a taxi to Wharf Bar on Choc beach. There is a small Sandals resort at one end but it is quite quiet there is never that many people there. Unfortunately now this beach is only half as lovely as our first visit as during the rainy season a river flows out into the bay, and a lot of sand and palm trees have been washed away. We have on our last couple of times gone up to Rodney Bay gets very busy if there are a couple of ships in port but it’s a nice beach plenty of bars, shops if you want to wander off the beach. For a first timer in St Lucia I would probably visit the Pitons and the volcano whether you do it in an organised excursion or take one of the local taxi’s maybe share with someone else from the ship.

Aruba

On our first visit here our friends got married so our day was spent at their wedding! We did go to a beautiful beach for photos after before heading back to the ship. Very cheap package for a wedding think it was about $600 and it was a lovely service in the local registry office, it was arranged back in the UK as Aruba being Dutch no residency was needed.

Aruba is an island much like Barbados of white powder sand beaches and resort hotels. Our last couple of times here we have caught the local bus to Eagle beach its only about 5 US dollars return for both of us! The sunbeds and straw umbrella cost us over $20 on the beach and a couple of beers were expensive at $6 dollars each though.

Bonaire

Went to a coral beach (Eden beach) for snorkelling as the reef is very close to the shore amazing for this as this island is one of the top dive sites in the world, beach shoes are a good idea as the sand is crushed coral We walked off the ship in the afternoon, as there is a small market and craft stalls set up on the quayside and few bars, we had a couple of drinks in one sharing the table and nearby tree with come of the largest iguanas I have ever seen!

Recently we have taken one of the ‘Chiva’ buses around the island seeing the flamingos, salt lakes and the slave huts then stopping off at a lagoon/beach for a couple of hours.

Curacao

First time we visited we docked right inside Willemstad the floating bridge was opened to let us pass through. We took a taxi to Sea Aquarium beach nice sandy beach quite close to Willemstad for a couple of hours, although if there are other ships in port this can get quite busy. Then spent a couple of hours in Willemstad across the floating bridge is a nice shopping area, restaurants and bars. Second time here we docked at the Mega pier just outside Willemstad the cruise terminal area has nice bars and shops and you can walk into Willemstad in about 10 minutes. We did a beach transfer here to a beach just a little further up from the Sea Aquarium beach. There is a highly recommended local bus company called Irie Tours, which have a tour, stop at the Curacao distillery, and an hour or so at the beach admission price included all for $20 (also beer and soft drinks!) . Blue Bay beach is another nice beach transfer with calm snorkelling in the bay.

Grenada

The water taxi’s directly next to the ships pier will take you to Grand Anse beach and bring you back again, think the last time we used them it was $5 dollars each way? Might have gone up to $6 now, make sure you get some small $ bills when getting your holiday money. The water taxi’s run all day every 15 minutes or so. Grand Anse beach is huge so if you are looking for a quiet spot don’t take the first sun beds offered walk further along the beach. There is a market area where souvenirs, cold drinks, food and toilets are available. We no longer go to this beach having found our ‘ideal’ beach a bit further a field the name of which I have been asked not to say!! Grenada is the spice island of the Caribbean so a place to taste and buy the wonderful spices available here we usually go home with a few but jerk chicken is probably the only thing we have cooked at home!

Tortola

We have visited several times here is a brief over view of the excursions we have done as value for money the Tortola excursions are cheaper than the other islands.

Beach transfer – this is usually to Cane Garden Beach a lovely beach but can be crowded if more than one ship is port. This is easily available by local open sided buses and cheaper than the ship excursion costs just allow plenty of time to get there and back. (Once our buses gear box fell out!! Had to wait for his mate to come and pick us up luckily it was on the way there so we had all day)

Virgin Gorda – have done this twice it is about a 45 minute ferry or fast motor boat ride across but it is an amazing place. It does involve quite a bit of walking and if you wish to go to Devils Bay you have to climb up rocks, steps etc., go in water up to your knees and be able to bend down quite low. Again if there is more than one ship docked or a ship tendering off Virgin Gorda it can be busy. The first time we went here we were lucky enough to be the only visitors apart from the yachts and private motor boats, last time it was very busy as two ships were docked in Tortola and a Silversea cruiser was tendering locally.

Jost Van Dyke – a 45 minute motor boat ride through Sir Francis Drake Channel takes you to an island on the other side of Tortola where you have a couple of hours on a fine white sand beach White Bay. There are a couple of bars here and you get a snack and a drink included in the price. Good value and a nice excursion.

Virgin Island Sailaway – did this last time unfortunately we did not have the greatest of weather quite showery and overcast the whole time. A catamaran sails you to Peter Island where you have chance to snorkel. I did enjoy this we saw rays and an abundance of fish. A stop on Norman Island at a beach club for a drink you can also buy lunch here, the beach is not great but then we did not have the weather that day. An ok excursion good for a bit of snorkelling and a sail on a catamaran (obviously the poor weather made it less enjoyable for us)

Skyworld and Cane Garden Beach – great value if you have not been to Tortola you see the island have a great photo opportunity (Skyworld is in fact a restaurant in the middle of the island where you can go on the roof and see for miles on a clear day) then go to Cane Garden Beach for lunch and time on the beach.

St Vincent – not a favourite port the town is quite run down and not a great deal to do locally. There is a water taxi on the pier which will take you round to Villa beach a narrow beach with a few bars etc. can become crowded if lots go there.

Have done the Waterfall and Coast excursion which will take you to the film set from pirates of the Caribbean, after about an hour or so in a bus so you see a bit of the island, lunch at a restaurant then a cruise back to the port.

Escape to Bequia – a catamaran across to Bequia where you have some time on the beach and lunch on-board. I loved this as it was very much real sailing as it can be quite gusty and choppy sailing across but those who don’t have very good sea legs did find it a problem as it is quite a long way, (my husband would not do it again).

Hope you find this useful.

July 31, 2016

Below is a bit from a Caribbean review I wrote a while ago.

St Maarten

Port:

Catch the water ferry ($6 for an all day wristband last year) to the beach from the cruise terminal. Great place we have always stayed in the bay so can’t comment on the island. It is very American lots of nice bars and the place to buy duty free, jewellery. Sunbeds and brollies on the beach usually in front of the beach bars so someone comes out and you pay them (I think it was $10 for 2 beds last yr) then they will run back and forward if you want drinks or snacks!

Ships excursions we have done here are the Golden Eagle catamaran lovely afternoon cruising down to ‘airport’ beach watching the planes land, they are so low it appears they might hit the mast! We then went snorkelling off a lovely beach and with loads of rum on the way back a great day.

I have also done the America’s cup yachting here a great experience if you like sailing or think you might like to try it.

June 28, 2016

Hi guys

I'm thinking of booking the transatlantic repositioning cruise on Azura this October. I'm a bit apprehensive about the sailing conditions on the way over. Can anybody help out with information? It'd be much appreciated.

Dxx

Weather on our Caribbean Transatlantic from 2012 (I am a sad git and write a daily journal!) :D

Sat 3 Nov (first day after leaving Southampton)

Woke up 210 miles from Southampton off the Brest peninsular weather scattered clouds and sun but a chilly 10 degrees

Sun 4 Nov

Just off the north coast of Spain still scattered clouds and sun a cool 13 degree today’s course will take us down the coast of Portugal lets hope I can start getting the summer clothes out and the temperature starts rising

Mon 5 Nov

8.30am south of Lisbon heading southwest towards Madeira 1000 miles from Southampton weather bright but overcast and 16 degrees

11am balcony door now open the sun is trying to shine and it’s a ‘balmy’ 17 degrees maybe it will reach 20 by this afternoon…yes it did!

Tue 6 Nov

Madeira weather very showery and 18 degrees

Wed 7 Nov

First of five days across the Atlantic broken cloud a few showers 18 degrees, 2700 miles to Tortola not yet level with the Canary Islands so expecting to get warmer once we turn south.

Thu 8 Nov

1000 miles out in the Atlantic sunny and 21 degrees

Fri 9 Nov

Weather really getting hot now midday temperature 27 degrees

Sat 10 Nov

Still 1000 mile to go but 23 degrees at 7am scattered clouds and sun mid twenties by midday again

Sun 11 Nov

3578 miles from Southampton with 475 miles to Tortola overcast but very warm at 26 degrees at 8am

Mon 12 Nov

Land at last Tortola it’s a steaming 27 degrees but heavy showers and sunny intervals typical Tortola weather travelled 4059 miles since Southampton.

We never had any rough seas of note a smooth crossing from start to finish :)

June 4, 2016

We have just been allocated a 15.30 embarkation time next month at the Mayflower terminal. :-(

What time is it ok to arrive as we only have our hotel room until 11am how strict are the times kept to?

(Think we prefer the old system at least you could arrive at leisure pick up a lettered card and wait your turn)

Will have to take a leisurely lunch and hopefully leave our luggage at the hotel as we are also carless for this cruise.

One good thing after this cruise we will have reached the dizzy heights of the Caribbean tier so wont have this problem on our next cruise :-)

April 26, 2016

If you have any questions about Azura or the places you will visit please ask

Here is a bit of info about some of the ports in the Caribbean I have written and shared previously. Some of the prices might be a little higher as I wrote this a couple of years ago.

'A little about some Caribbean ports of call'

St Maarten

Port:

Catch the water ferry ($6 for an all day wristband last year) to the beach from the cruise terminal. Great place we have always stayed in the bay so can’t comment on the island. It is very American lots of nice bars and the place to buy duty free, jewellery. Sunbeds and brollies on the beach usually in front of the beach bars so someone comes out and you pay them (I think it was $10 for 2 beds last yr.) then they will run back and forward if you want drinks or snacks!

Ships excursions we have done here are the Golden Eagle catamaran lovely afternoon cruising down to ‘airport’ beach watching the plane land, snorkelling off a lovely beach and loads of rum on the way back! I have also done the America’s cup yachting here a great experience.

Antigua

Port:

The first time we came here it rained!! So we didn’t go anywhere but walked around the town and had coffee. There are a few nice arty shops if you like that as well as the usual touristy ones quite a nice place for a wander.

We have also been kayaking here out in the mangrove swamps! Also visited one off the small islands on the Atlantic side of Antigua, Bird Island the sea is very rough on that side not for the faint hearted. It is a very beautiful island so probably a good island to go out and about there are the English Harbour and Nelsons Dockyard, which are popular places to visit. If you are a cricket fan there is a cricket tour you and do which visits the test ground and you meet one of the Caribbean cricket stars. We have used the local taxi’s here but do look after your belongings, as this is where our youngest son ‘lost’ or had stolen his iphone. Please don’t be put off by this, as 99% of the people on the islands are friendly. On our last visit here we went on the Crusoe Island excursion this was fantastic, about 40 people on their own island for the day open bar, music and lunch thoroughly recommend if you are a beach bum.

Dickinson beach break, nice beach can get busy but big and long enough for all

Dominica

Port:

There is a warehouse where the ship docks, the locals set up a market there so ok for a wander. The town is about a 20-minute walk away not very much there though. We have also docked right in Road Town right in front of the local market depends if there are two ships in port.

We have done the Arial Tram in the rain forest here I liked it. Great for seeing the rainforest, plants, trees and I did see hummingbirds don’t think P&O do this one anymore though. We have also been river tubing here three times we loved it but only great for those who love the water and getting wet. Tried the tubing on the Pagua River in the Carib territory but the journey there and back is very long and over very poor roads so if tubing on the Layou river is available this is a much better option.

We have also visited the waterfalls here and then went to a black sand beach (Mero) for a couple of hours. Not an island for beaches it is a very much a tropical rainforest island with small narrow roads, mountains and valleys you do need to get out of the port to experience it but I would probably always do a ship excursion here due to the roads and terrain if you are late back on a ship tour the ship will always wait for you!

Barbados

The actual cruise terminal has lots of shops etc but walk (about 15mins) or taxi it to Bridgetown a lot more here. As far as beach you could get a taxi to Malibu on Brighton Beach it is about 10 mins from the ship and for about $5 you can have a tour of the distillery. There are beds and a bit of shade on the beach it is an absolutely beautiful beach

If you take a taxi anywhere on most islands you only pay the driver when he returns to take you back to the ship just give yourselves plenty of time to get back before the time they want you back on-board. There are lots of things to see and do in Barbados depending on whether you are beach fans, like the fauna and flora things or getting out on the water. My favourite time here was on a catamaran sailing down the coast stopping at Sandy Lane beach then out to a reef to swim with turtles. Most times here though we just walk into Bridgetown then out the other side onto Carlisle Bay for a swim and a beer. (Check it out on Google earth)

St Lucia

We have always gone out here, there are two cruise terminals the one on the right side of the bay does not have much, on the left side it is much better with shops and bars. Lots of taxi’s offering trips

We have visited Pitons and the volcano. The last couple of times we have got a taxi to Wharf Bar on Choc beach. There is a small Sandals resort at one end but it is quite quiet there is never that many people there. Unfortunately now this beach is only half as lovely as our first visit as during the rainy season a river flows out into the bay, and a lot of sand and palm trees have been washed away. We have on our last couple of times gone up to Rodney Bay it does get very busy if there are a couple of ships in port but it’s a nice beach plenty of bars, shops if you want to wander off the beach.

For a first timer in St Lucia I would probably visit the Pitons and the volcano whether you do it in an organised excursion or take one of the local taxi’s maybe share with someone else from the ship.

Aruba

On our first visit here our friends got married so our day was spent at their wedding! We did go to a beautiful beach for photos after it is an island much like Barbados of white powder sand beaches and resort hotels. Our last couple of times here we have caught the local bus to Eagle beach its only about 5 US dollars return for both of us! The sunbeds and straw umbrella cost us over $20 on the beach and a couple of beers were expensive at $6 dollars each though.

Bonaire

Went to a coral beach (Eden beach) for snorkelling as the reef is very close to the shore amazing for this as this island is one of the top dive sites in the world, beach shoes are a good idea as the sand is crushed coral We walked off the ship in the afternoon, as there is a small market and craft stalls set up on the quayside and few bars and a couple of drinks in one sharing the table and nearby tree with come of the largest iguanas I have ever seen!

Recently we have taken one of the ‘Chiva’ buses around the island seeing the flamingos, salt lakes and the slave huts then stopping off at a lagoon/beach for a couple of hours.

Curacao

First time we visited we docked right inside Willemstad the floating bridge was opened to let us pass through. We took a taxi to Sea Aquarium beach nice sandy beach quite close to Willemstad for a couple of hours, although if there are other ships in port this can get quite busy. Then spent a couple of hours in Willemstad across the floating bridge is a nice shopping area, restaurants and bars. Second time here we docked at the Mega pier just outside Willemstad the cruise terminal area has nice bars and shops and you can walk into Willemstad in about 10 minutes. We did a beach transfer here to a beach just a little further up from the Sea Aquarium beach. There is a highly recommended local bus company called Irie Tours, which have a tour, stop at the Curacao distillery, and an hour or so at the beach admission price included all for $20 (also beer and soft drinks!) .

Grenada

The water taxi’s directly next to the ships pier will take you to Grand Anse beach and bring you back again, think the last time we used them it was $5 dollars each way? Might have gone up to $6 now, make sure you get some small $ bills when getting your holiday money. The water taxi’s run all day every 15 minutes or so. Grand Anse beach is huge so if you are looking for a quiet spot don’t take the first sun beds offered walk further along the beach. There is a market area where souvenirs, cold drinks, food and toilets are available. We no longer go to this beach having found our ‘ideal’ beach a bit further a field the name of which I have been asked not to say!! Grenada is the spice island of the Caribbean so a place to taste and buy the wonderful spices available here, we usually go home with a few but jerk chicken is probably the only thing we have cooked at home!