Carnival Paradise Cruise Review - B2B - September 5 & 10, 2022

 

Carnival Paradise Cruise Review - B2B - September 5th & 10th, 2022

Just the Facts:

Ship:  Carnival Paradise,  last of Fantasy Class ships launched Nov. 1998 @ 70,000 tons.

Sailing:  August 22 & Aug 27, 2022 - two 5 day cruises - Sailing out of Port of Tampa, Florida

Captain: Massimiliano Roja  -  Hotel Director: Hugo Hidalgo 

Cruise Directors - 1st cruise: T-O double D on the M-I-C or Todd - 2nd cruise; Lei Lei

Ports: Tampa, FL - Grand Cayman, Cayman Islands - Isla de Cozumel, Mexico (2) - Mahogany Bay, Honduras - Tampa, FL

 

I am sailing as a solo guest. This is my 6th & 7th cruises on the Carnival Paradise, my 103rd & 104th Carnival cruises, and my 184th & 185th total cruises overall.

 

Day One -- Monday --  September 5th, 2022 -- Port of Tampa  — Embarkation 


This embarkation day started the same as just a few weeks ago with a family trip to the Florida Aquarium. The DW & I picked up the DD and granddaughter at about 9:10 am and made our way to the downtown Tampa waterfront and the Florida Aquarium. We are new Aquarium Members and it just so happens that the Aquarium member parking is closer to the cruise terminal than any cruise parking. We had a great morning at the Aquarium and were better prepared to allow the GD to get wet in the nice waterpark area. Of course, we visited the displays and our favorite places as well. It was very busy with it being Labor Day…10 times the crowd of the previous Monday. We had a specialty cocktail, beer, and coke while GD spent an hour in the Splash Zone. It was 1:00 pm when we left so I knew by the time I got from the parking lot to the ship that passenger cabins would be open on the Paradise, which just makes everything easier on board for all guests. It went very smoothly with check-in and yes I was at my cabin by 1:30 pm. My cabin is E-55 and the best of the recent three. Better internet and is nice and cool inside considering that it is an Oceanview cabin. After unpacking I went to my Muster Station on deck 8 then to the Lido deck for a light lunch. The Paradise does have an excellent Salad Bar station, actually better than most newer Carnival Ships, so a nice salad was perfect. Back to the cabin to book a cruise for a client and I met Dudi my Cabin Steward for this cruise. He brought both ice and a robe as well as set up a cleaning schedule for the week. On the previous two cruises, I missed sailing under the Skyway Bridge, asleep on one and at dinner on the second. I made a point to see it up close on deck 11. Not the highest, but most forward. We were a little later than the last cruise so I had a nice view of the approach and of us sailing under…looking up it seems as if we are just slipping under, the guests above sure made some noise. I then went back to the Lido Marketplace for dinner. I had the Sweet & Sour Shrimp, Roast Beef, the Poblano Pepper Soup, and a Cranberry Roll. It was good. Just time for a nice sunset then I retired to the cabin. It was a long, busy, and great embarkation day.

 

 Day Two -- Tuesday --  September 6th, 2022 -- Day at Sea  

Smooth seas overnight, and I slept very well. I was up early, the WiFi is not as good as when we were in Tampa but better than my first cabin last week. I later went back to sleep and slept until 9:30…so some very much-needed rest, but I did do 6600 steps yesterday. I had some housekeeping time as I forgot to hang my shirts and got laundry ready for Rudi. There were enough Diamonds on board to justify a Diamond Luncheon and it was held at 11:00 am in the Destiny Restaurant. I sat at a ten-top table with very nice guests. The Entertainment Director introduced the Senior Staff (I wonder if Hugo is gone) and there were sufficient cocktail servers to make everyone happy. I had a Bloody Mary for a starter. The menu was the standard for Diamonds and I ordered both the Green Salad and the NY Strip Steak entree. For dessert a fancy fruit plate and another Elderflower martini. It was a fun luncheon. Afterward, I went to the casino to get my $25 Diamond benefit and watched for a while. I will return to play. The weather is very good and guests are enjoying it on the outer decks, but too hot for me…cabin time and more rest for me. I tried to book the Del Mar Latino for this week in Cozumel, but it was full so booked it for our visit on the 13th. I then took a nice long nap and woke just in time for Sundown. I went to the Lido Marketplace and had Roast Beef and Seafood, it was good. Again as a contrarian, it’s the time to be out and about while everyone else is having their Elegant evening. The feature show was  Epic Rock in the theater, but I stayed on deck and enjoyed the weather and beautiful Sunset. Only one person in the pool, sweet.  A pleasant walkabout the ship before retiring.  Rudi freshened my cabin and left more ice...I like him.  It was a fun and restful sea day on the Carnival Paradise.

 

Day Three -- Wednesday -- September 7th, 2022 -- Grand Cayman, Cayman Islands 

Smooth seas overnight and I again slept very well. I was up very early as I had rest yesterday. I went to the Elation MDR for the first time and saw the great crew who call me by name on sight now. I had my usual: Eggs Benedict, Bacon, Hash Browns, Milk, danish, Tomato juice, and a Grapefruit. A nice leisurely breakfast since I am staying on board the ship. I had cabin time but left it for Dudi to clean and set up an HQ on Lido deck port side with a nice view of the Liberty of the Seas, the Carnival Vista (both from Galveston, Texas), and the Seven-mile beach. Internet would have been my only reason to get off, but the WiFi seems to work much better while in port so it’s been good this morning. The old-timers have taken over the pool as it should be when in port, I thought I was back in Meadow Oaks with all my Senior friends. Glad they are getting quality deck time while they can on an empty ship. I enjoyed my Coca-colas at my table and had a productive day including booking a Transatlantic and Mediterranean cruise on the Celebrity Constellation for 2023. Guests began water-tendering back in the afternoon and we got a light shower that cooled off the outer decks…nice. I went to Guy’s for my first and new on the menu Funderstruck Burger…you can’t get any more Tex-Mex than one of these. Donkey Sauce, Meat Patty, Special Cheese, Nacho Seasoning, Fried Onion & Jalapenos, Charra Beans (touch), Pico de Gallo (touch). Amazing and sorry it took me so long to try it, I know I’m a creature of habit, but this is well worth it. As we did a 180° turn to leave Grand Cayman I lost my shade on deck so abandoned the HQ for the cabin. I went to the Casino primarily to load my card in order to determine if I’d ever get a casino offer and sat in at the Texas-Hold’em table. Very first hand and a big pot the new guy (me) draws a full house: AAAQQ. I’m sure that made the regular players unhappy as I soon split to go to the Comedy Show. The comedian was Valerie Storm and she did a show that was good as I have seen in a long while. I was told she was good and she is…packed room too. Stopped for a late cheesecake up on Lido and sat outdoors aft and watched the Carnival Vista following us towards Cozumel. Beautiful lights and evening. It was a very nice productive day for me on Carnival Paradise.

Day Four -- Thursday --  September 8th, 2022 -- Cozumel, Mexico

Smooth Caribbean seas sailing west and I slept fair, off and on. We have a late arrival into Cozumel so no rushing this morning. The local port officials didn’t allow debark until all three ships were docked so it was a madhouse once the Vista, Dream, and Paradise passengers hit the pier. When I saw that there were NO ships at the International pier I made a change of plans and went to the old El Cid Hotel for the day. It’s just beyond the International pier and is usually dominated by RCL guests and crew. Not so busy today so I got an all-inclusive day pass for $52 and spent the day. It was nice to have a new HQ in Cozumel for the day. I found a more secluded spot with a table, chairs, and electrical outlet just off of the smaller beach. (photo is view from table) Better access to water, a nice pool, and food is restaurant quality & quantity. I haven't been here in many years but enjoyed it. Some pluses: they furnish the towels, a nice toilet/changing area, waiters & servers, shade, water access in two different areas, choice of dining in the restaurant (must have a shirt & dry, etc.) or in my case a table, a huge swimming pool, and a closer walk to the cruise terminal. I got a lot of business and financial work done as well as hitting the nice Caribbean water in the Strait of Cozumel twice today. I arrived back at Puerto Maya pier at about 5:30 pm and saw Mike Pack on the pier, he is now a supervisor of the fleet cruise directors and just boarded the Paradise yesterday. Good to visit with him…I also saw Hugo our Hotel Director so he is alive and well. Cabin time to rest and clean up. At about 7:45 I went to the Elation Dining room for dinner and scored my favorite solo table #201. I ordered two retro 50th birthday dishes: French Onion soup, Supreme of Poulet Farcie (chicken breast stuffed with spinach & cheese), BBQ ribs, and a Fruit Plate. This is one of the best MDR dinner menus I have seen on a Carnival ship in many years. A quick swing by the Piano Bar and a walkabout before retiring It was a tiring yet very productive port day in Cozumel.

Day Five -- Friday --  September 9th, 2022 —Fun Day at Sea 

For the first time this cruise a little bit of rolling seas overnight and some lightning as we transitioned from the Caribbean into the Gulf of Mexico. I was up early again to get a little better internet while updating this blog. I had fruit for breakfast from my Fruit Basket. Since it is overcast with drizzle I struggled through the crappy internet and had a cabin morning. I did a noon walkabout picking up my Diamond gifts and cashing out of the casino. Two cruises in a row cashing out with a little more than I had put on my card. I stopped at Guy’s for the new Funderstruck burger…that’s two on this cruise. Dudi had the cabin looking great when I returned, he has been an outstanding cabin steward. He goes above and beyond the minimal requirements and takes pride in his service. I’m glad that I will have him again next cruise as I’m only moving next door. I went to Tea Time in the Elation MDR, my first Tea since they recently restarted it. I enjoyed the Scones and Apple Tarts, but nothing else appealed to me. I don’t do chocolate or coffee flavors, but if you do, they had goodies for you. I have to try to remember to bring my own tea bags next time. The Diamond and Platinum Party was held at 5:00 pm in the Queen Mary Lounge. A full room with live music and numerous bar servers so everyone was content with their cocktails, including me. I was actually the high cruiser, but they called someone else and I was really fine with it, I enjoyed my cocktails. This was the first appearance of the Captain at a cruise event since the Covid protocols. Nice to see cruising getting back to normal. I stopped at the Lobby Bar and listened to some excellent Steel Drum music (photo above) and enjoyed some Pilsner Urquell's…. Tonight I had dinner in the Elation MDR…I ordered the Dill Lemon Comfort Soup, Cobb Salad, Jerk Pork Loin entree, and a fruit plate for dessert. It was very good.  After dinner, I went to the Piano Bar and Rolando is getting better with each cruise, he did say he was moving to a new ship soon. It was a lovely final day on the Carnival Paradise.

 

Day Six - Debarkation/Embarkation — Saturday --  September 10th, 2022 -- Port of Tampa 

Calm seas overnight and I slept well. I was awake when we docked in Tampa at 6:00 am. I went to breakfast in Elation and had Avocado Toast with Mellon and Danish. Then began packing as I have to change cabins today, but easy just going next door. They were debarking guests by 7:05 am and had the all off by 9:30 am. Pretty smooth. I met the B2B guests at 9:15 and at about 9:30 went through customs and returned to the ship. I returned to the cabin to unpack and set up for this week. With fast Tampa internet today I updated this blog and reviewed the progress on the kitchen remodel at home. About 11:00 am I did a walkabout the ship before many guests had boarded then had a Guys cheeseburger with chili and fries as an early lunch as I had plans for a noon kickoff for the Alabama vs. Texas football game. It was a very exciting game and well worth watching. It ended up being a one-point victory for Bama. I watched our 4:00ish sail away from the aft deck and took some photos of the Florida Aquarium (photo) that has become important to our family in our sailings from Tampa. I had an early dinner in the Elation MDR when it opened at 5:30 pm as my team has a 7:00 pm kickoff this evening. Dinner was very good, I ordered the Tomato Soup, Sweet & Sour Shrimp, the Pollo Parmigiana Della Cucina entree from the Cucina menu, and a Tiramisu for dessert. I had my usual waiters and good service at table #201 and I was out in time for kickoff. The WiFi was not near as good as when we were in Tampa but I was able to enjoy the game. My Oklahoma Sooners won. They delivered the B2B Fruit Bowl with specific items I had requested so I had late-night game snacks as well. It was a great turn-around and football day for an experienced cruiser on the Carnival Paradise.
 

Day Seven — Sunday --  September 11th, 2022 — Fun Day at Sea 

Smooth seas overnight and I slept very well. I did some early morning housekeeping arranging laundry service and a fruit bowl breakfast. I did a walkabout and collected my $25 Diamond casino credit and established a pin number for my casino account for later, then picked up my Diamond gifts from Pixels, I received a Carnival Elation pin that was the first Carnival ship I ever sailed back in 2004. There were enough Diamonds on board to justify a Diamond Luncheon and it was held at 11:00 am in the Destiny Restaurant. I had a nice table and the Entertainment Director introduced the Senior Staff...the big surprise was that the Captain was in attendance for the first time in 2 1/2 years. Nice. I had the same server as the previous cruise and there were sufficient cocktail servers to make everyone happy. The menu was the standard for Diamonds and I ordered both the Green Salad starter and the NY Strip Steak entree. The waiter actually brought me a Pork Belly appetizer with the entree as he knew I probably would like one…and I did. For dessert a fancy fruit plate and another Elderflower martini. It was a fun luncheon with new friends. I stopped at the Lobby Bar to finish my last martini and had water as I visited with new friends. Then I did the usual for the first sea day…nap time. I slept until 6:00ish so a good rest. I went up to the Lido Marketplace Deli and had two sandwiches: the Pepper Steak and a Reuben. They used regular sliced bread and hot dog bun…not very good compared to other ships. Potato Chips were good (they are Lays). I sat on the outer deck for sunset, a lot of cloud cover but a very pleasant evening. I then visited the casino and played some Texas Hold-em…not a good night for me, but I did get a free beer, a Pilsner Urquell of course. Short walkabout before retiring. It was a fun and restful sea day on the Carnival Paradise.

Day Eight — Monday -- September 12th, 2022 — Mahogany Bay, Isla Roatan 

Smooth seas again and I slept well. I was up in the night and began booking WiFi and port Excursions for my three Europe cruises next month. I wanted to beat Carnival’s October price increases. Even though I have the Premium WiFi this cruise it’s not that great so when other guests are asleep, it’s a bit better. When I did get back to sleep I didn’t get around until mid-morning. Those bananas from the fruit basket come in handy and they delivered a refill fruit tray later in the day.  We didn’t dock until after 11:00 am so it was a slow morning for most guests. I went to Guy’s Burgers when it opened at noon and had a Funderstruck and a Chili burger…they seem to go together. Packed with Crew as they get to eat at these venues on port days. My option was to get off the ship after lunch and purchased the $5 Mahogany Bay Wifi from the kiosk on the pier, but with most guests off it was a little better on board than it was earlier. I did my Monday morning business and had a nice cabin day. When it cooled outside I spent a nice amount of time on Deck 11 enjoying watching the guests and the cooling breeze. It was nice sundown this evening too. I went for a late dinner in the Elation MDR, it was very busy after 8:30 and I was surprised. I ordered the Broccoli Soup, the Meatballs & Linguini, the Tenderloin Steak entree, and the Pineapple for dessert. It was all very good, I even had extra Sauce for the Pasta. I was going to attend the 9:45 Production Show, but I saw that it was set up with stools that indicate an abbreviated show without props or costumes so I passed. I did a walkabout around the ship and then retired. It was a productive and pleasant day on Carnival Paradise.

 

Day Nine -- Tuesday -- September 13th, 2022 -- Cozumel, Mexico 

Again smooth seas overnight and just enough waves for nice sleeping. I was up early to update this blog as the internet is a bit faster in the wee hours. I went back to sleep and then was up for our late arrival at Puerto Maya. I went to my 2nd favorite place in Cozumel: Del Mar Latino Resort. Walked there from the ship arriving about noonish ship time which gave me plenty of time for the all-inclusive spirits and food as they are on central time now on the island…six hours. I started with a quick dip in the pool to cool off from the walk and ordered a diet Coke, Pico de Gallo, Chips, and Guacamole to start. I did get in the Caribbean Sea and it was very refreshing, not much of a beach, but the snorkeling is good. Over the course of the day, I had numerous Mojitos, Coconut Shrimp, Mojitos, Guacamole, Mojitos, grilled Pollo (chicken), Mojitos, Ice Creme, and more. I more than closed them down as I stayed beyond service hours just to use the fast internet service. I really used the internet most of the day as there was a lot for me to do on this big market drop day and keep up with a punch list for kitchen repairs back at home. Much faster internet than on the Paradise. I started back about 6:50 pm for our 7:30 back on board time. I had a nice visit with Senior Staff on the pier. Once I was cleaned up it was already late so I decided to order room service and they were very prompt. I can say that the new BLTs are no comparison to the classic room service ones in years past. It’s really a Turkey Sandwich with Turkey Bacon & slice Turkey meat. The extra French Fries ($2) were plentiful and good. I retired soon after eating, it was an active and busy day. Always a FUN port day in Cozumel.

Day Ten -- Wednesday --  September 14th, 2022 —Fun Day at Sea 

Smooth seas overnight and I slept well. Partly cloudy weather, but cleared during the day. This morning I went to the Elation MDR for the featured Sea Day Brunch. I had a Bloody Mary, Steak & Eggs+, Hash Browns, Hickory Bacon, Danish, French Toast, Tomato Juice, and Milk. It was very good and my favorite table was available. I had cabin time and spent some time on the outer decks as well. I even ventured up to Deck 15, the Sun Deck, with only four people in that huge space. I made it to the 3:30 PG Comedy Show with Valerie Storm, she did well. Some comedians don’t do well with a PG set. The Platinum & Diamond party (photo right) was at 5:00 pm and I decided to have some beer and not martinis this evening. Thanks to Amol for assuring me that I had Pilsner Urquell to enjoy. I happened to run into Executive Chef JJ on the Promenade deck and we discussed ranching, meat production, steaks, and more. He said he would fix a very nice Sirloin steak for me tonight so when I checked in at the Elation Dining room this evening they contacted him. I had my favorite table (#201) and a wonderful meal. I ordered the Cobb Salad, The Lemon Dill Soup, and the nice Sirloin Steak from the Steak House selections. The steak was tender and perfectly cooked. I was more than pleased. Best meal of my four recent cruises. Thank you Chef JJ. I also had very friendly guests at the next table. I offered them my two bottles of champagne that I will not be using, very convenient as their cabin is direct across from mine. After dinner I was able to watch the Steel Drum music in the Lobby Bar, the Bohemian Rhapsody set is unbelievably great. I enjoyed visiting with Deepak one of the bartenders there, he is very professional and as good as any Alchemist. I made it back to the Punchliner Comedy show with Jeff Harms, he was entertaining. Dudi has been doing turn-down service for me for ten days, I appreciate coming back late to a nice cabin. I had a message from a client and successfully booked him on an MSC cruise for October but, I had to go to the lobby to get the WiFi to work enough to do it…just bad internet on this ship in the majority of the cabins. It was a wonderful last sea day on the Carnival Breeze.

 

Debarkation — Thursday --  September 15th, 2022 -- Port of Tampa
Smooth seas overnight and I sleep well.  I was awake at 5:00 am as we were sailing into the upper bay and  I was packed by 6:00 am as we came along the pier.  I have a 7:00 am meet time for Diamonds but since I’m already on Deck 7 I’ll just wait until they come down, no need to carry my bag ups just to bring it back down.  I was off by 7:15 and met a Lyft driver at the Aquarium for my ride home.  I was home at 8:15 am well before all the passengers are off the Paradise.


My observations about the Carnival Paradise

 
POSITIVE:
Smaller ship is easier to maneuver
Crew and Staff are excellent
Food is better over-all in the Main Dining Rooms than other Carnival ships (with same menus)
Salad Bar is very good and good location away from larger buffet lines
Rarely a wait for elevators

NEGATIVE:
No Alchemy Bar
Very poor Internet
Lack of secondary dining options (ie. Mongolian Grill, Seafood Shack, Steakhouse, etc.)


Sunshine Parkway Bridge Times
Out bound: 6:30 pm.  In bound: 3:50 am

Carnival Paradise Cruise Review - B2B - August 22 & 27, 2022

 

Carnival Paradise Cruise Review - B2B - August 22 & 27, 2022

 

Just the Facts:

Ship:  Carnival Paradise,  last of Fantasy Class ships launched Nov. 1998 @ 70,000 tons.

Sailing:  August 22 & Aug 27, 2022 - two 5 day cruises - Sailing out of Port of Tampa, Florida

Captain: Massimiliano Roja  -  Hotel Director: Hugo Hidalgo -  Cruise Director: T-O double D on the M-I-C or Todd

Ports: Tampa, FL - Grand Cayman, Cayman Islands - Isla de Cozumel, Mexico (2) - Mahogany Bay, Honduras - Tampa, FL

 

I am sailing as a solo guest. This is my 4th & 5th cruises on the Carnival Paradise, my 101st & 102nd Carnival cruises, and my 182nd total cruise overall.

Day One -- Monday --  August 22nd, 2022 -- Port of Tampa  — Embarkation

This is a very easy embarkation day sailing from my new home port of Tampa. The DW & I picked up the DD and granddaughter about 8:30 am and made our way to the Florida Aquarium in Tampa. We are new Aquarium Members and it just so happens that the Aquarium member parking is closer to the cruise terminal than any cruise parking. We had a great morning at the Aquarium…it’s a great facility and the GD was thrilled with the exhibits and display tanks…I liked them too. About 12:30 pm I headed back to the parking lot and retrieved my travel bag and walked across the street to the Carnival Paradise. The early crowds have boarded, so I breezed my way through security and check-in and was in my cabin before 1:00 pm. I had already walked a lot before boarding so the first priority was some rest. About 2:00 I went on a walkabout going by my ‘Muster Station’ then to Lido deck for a light lunch. The Paradise does have an excellent Salad Bar station, actually better than most newer Carnival Ships, so a nice salad was perfect. I met Mohammed, my cabin Stewart, and he fixed me up with ice and a robe. I unpacked, did my cabin set up, then took a nice long nap. I woke at about 8:00 pm and quickly made reservations at the Elation Restaurant. I went to the lobby bar and enjoyed a Cosmopolitan, my second of the day as my friend Amol, a Beverage Manager, bought me one. I’m listed as a 100 Milestone on this cruise, thanks Amol, I’ll take it. I was soon called to dinner and had a nice 2-top (#201) table and as the timing was good, a dance show by the Waiters. I ordered the Roasted Tomato Soup, a Shrimp Cocktail, and the Strip-loin steak entree. A small fruit plate for dessert and all was good including service. I’m glad I went to dinner in the MDR. I returned to the cabin to do my usual Monday business, but the internet has been very bad today. Hopefully, it will get better. It was a busy day with easy embarkation.

 

Day Two -- Tuesday --  August 23rd, 2022 -- Day at Sea 

Smooth seas overnight, and I slept very well in my interior cabin. I was up early but still had poor WiFi so no online business or Blog updates. I went back to sleep and slept until 9:00…so some very much-needed rest, but I did do 7000 steps yesterday. I went to Blue Iguana for breakfast, very disappointing. Paradise is unique in that Guy’s, the Omelette Station, and Blue Iguana is actually one continuous space on the outdoor Lido deck so Blue Iguana is just different. The Arepas were the worst I have ever had anywhere at any time, but I was there later in the morning than normal. The better option is to get a fresh omelet next to it and then get the Salsas from Blue Iguana. I should have known that from my last review too. I went to the Diamond Gathering at 10:00 am in the Leonardo Lounge. It was hosted by my friend Hugo who I first met on the Carnival Breeze many moons ago, Congratulations to him on his promotion to Hotel Director. I had my fair share of Bloody Mary's at the bar, they were excellent. The Coconut Shrimp was wonderful too. The Staff Officers were very congenial to the guests and the Bar Servers were very accommodating as well. Also, live music and a perfect size room for the number of Diamonds. An excellent gathering. I took my laptop to the old location of the Business area near Guest Services and was able to get a WiFi connection, very slow, but the best I can get at this time. Updated some business accounts and travel work, but Blog will have to wait. The weather is very good and guests are enjoying it on the outer decks, but too hot for me…cabin time and more for some rest for me. This evening I went back to the lobby to get internet and I listened to the entire set of the Steel Drum player. He was excellent, especially his rendition of Bohemian Rhapsody. Tonight is elegant night, but I did the contrarian thing and had dinner on the outer deck aft. I had a very nice salad. It was a beautiful evening and a good time to be out and about as most guests are at dinner. The feature show was the 80’s Pop to the Max in the theater, but I stayed on deck and enjoyed the weather and beautiful Sunset. A pleasant walkabout the ship before retiring. It was a fun and restful sea day on the Carnival Paradise.

 

Day Three -- Wednesday -- August 24th, 2022 -- Grand Cayman, Cayman Islands 

Smooth seas overnight and I again slept very well. I was up very early as I have an excursion booked, a rarity for me at this port as I have visited so many times. I went to the Lido for a light breakfast at about 7:45 am then to the Queen Mary Lounge to await the Water Shuttle (the new name for a tender) to go ashore. The weather is very overcast which I prefer to hot sun. We are anchored with two Texas ships: the Carnival Vista and Royal’s Liberty of the Seas. The usual confusion finding one specific tour, especially at the older & small old dock in downtown Georgetown. My excursion was at the Cayman Turtle Center.  They had an interesting area to snorkel with the turtles. They furnish the gear needed and there was a beach area as well. It was fun and a different experience. I then toured the park and had time for some local beer at the Restaurant. We were bused back to the pier and on one of the last shuttles back to the ship. I had a nice nap upon return, easier in an interior cabin. Tonight is my favorite menu in the Dining Room so I went to the Elation MDR early for me about 6:30 pm. (Table #201) I ordered both the Minestrone Soup and the Poblano Pepper Soup, the Linguine with the Meatballs as a starter, the Beef Tenderloin entree, and the roasted Pineapple dessert. It was very good as was the service. As we are sailing due west we were sailing into the Sunset, a little different. I watched fro forward deck above the Bridge and also discovered the WiFi was good at that location, unfortunately, there is no place to sit. I then did a walkabout stopping at the Photo Gallery for the Diamond gifts and at the Casino for the Diamond Free-play, but they just gave me $25 cash…sweet. Listened to music on the U.S. Stage on Promenade before retiring. It was an interesting and busy day in Grand Cayman and on the Paradise.

Day Four -- Thursday --  August 25th, 2022 -- Cozumel,  Mexico 

Smooth Caribbean seas sailing west and I slept very well. We have a late arrival into Cozumel so no rushing this morning…I went to the Elation Dining Room for a breakfast and I sat at my favorite solo table (#201). I ordered Hot Milk, Danish, Tomato Juice, Eggs Benedict, Bacon, and Potatoes. It was excellent. We were docked with the carnival Vista and Carnival Dream, both from Galveston, TX so a LOT of guests on the pier arrived about the same time. Same long line at Taxi stands so I went to my secret taxi stand outside and was lucky to get a taxi and he dropped me right at Antonio’s Barber Shop. My hair is long as you can see from the previous photo so we went a different style haircut: long on top and short on the sides…we’ll see how people react. It still looks like a Jimmy McGill haircut. So off to Woody’s Bar & Grill, the best bar on the island, with the fastest and much-needed WiFi. Good drinks, good food, fast internet, LIVE entertainment, great staff, and owners...Woody's is the best for a meal or drink while visiting the island. I got a lot of business and financial work done including booking a couple of Tahiti cruises for good friends and clients. I also had time for my Pedicure at Sensi Spa since we have a late sail away. And since my work was done time for some Bohemia Clara's before leaving Woody's. I arrived back at Puerto Maya pier at about 6:30 pm, that’s the latest back on board I’ve done in Cozumel in years (see photo above). It will even be later next cruise and reminds me of the days when we actually stayed until midnight at the Puerto Langosta pier in the 80s. I’m glad I went to the MDR for a late dinner, I was actually pleasantly shocked that it was so fabulously good. I ordered two retro 50th birthday dishes: French Onion soup, Supreme of Poulet Farcie (chicken breast stuffed with spinach & cheese), Broiled Strip-loin Steak, and a Fruit Plate. This was the best MDR dinner I have had on a Carnival ship in many years. It was a very productive port day in Cozumel.

Day Five -- Friday --  August 26th, 2022 —Fun Day at Sea

Smooth seas overnight and I slept very well and late. I went to the Sea day Brunch in the Elation dining room. I was impressed with the service, I was brought hot milk without asking soon after I sat. I ordered the Steak & Eggs, Bacon, Hash Browns, and a Bloody Mary. I am very pleased by this dining room's service and food. The weather is great today and guests are enjoying the outer decks. I did a walkabout to enjoy the fresh sea air and finished visiting all decks and areas of the ship and spent time on the Serenity Deck located forward. I watched a movie this afternoon on TCM one of the few good TV channels available on Carnival ships. They do have nice large TV sets mounted in the corner of the cabin...it wasn't long ago that they had very small ones here on Paradise in the interior cabins. I went to a trivia contest about TV theme songs...missed a few. I had my first Guy’s burger which will also be my dinner this evening. It was cooked perfectly crisp, but the meat was cold, I don’t do cheese so when it was brought from the grill I assumed it was freshly done, but it wasn’t...it was cold. Very disappointing. I should just stick with a cheeseburger from the rotation or actually test the meat before walking away. I attended the Platinum/Diamond Gathering in the Queen Mary Lounge...it was well attended. Hugo runs a good show and almost all the Senior Staff attended. I sat at the Bar and had two nice Elderflower Martinis, then took some diet Pepsis back to the cabin for a Gone With The Wind evening on TCM. The GWTW 1+ hour Special Documentary prior to the movie was very interesting and of course the best movie of all time. Made for long viewing. It was a relaxing sea day for a veteran cruiser such as myself on the Carnival Paradise.

Day Six - Debarkation/Embarkation — Saturday --  August 27th, 2022 -- Port of Tampa 

Calm seas overnight and I slept well. We were docked in Tampa by the time I awoke at 6:15 am. I went to breakfast in Elation and had Avocado Toast with Eggs, Bacon, and Hash Browns. Then began packing as I have to change cabins today. They were debarking guests by 7:30 am and had the all off by 9:45 am. Pretty smooth. I met the B2B guests at 9:15 and at about 10:00 went through customs and returned to the ship. Thanks to my new cabin steward Gede for helping with my move. With fast Tampa internet today I update this blog and review progress on the kitchen remodel. All is well...ready to begin the second cruise. I met friends just boarding today and had a tasty salad in the Lido Marketplace, it was nice visiting with them. I then had some cabin time to finalize some exotic cruise bookings while I have good WiFi, just hoping that this service continues in my new ocean view cabin location once we sail away. I did a walkabout and actually watched some of the sail away party on Lido deck. I have an early set time for dining on this cruise in the Destiny Dining room at 6:00 pm. A good change for me. I met my friends at window table 311 and we had a good serving team. Tonight I ordered Roasted Poblano and Corn Soup, Sweet & Sour Shrimp, the Pollo Parmigiana Della Cucina entree from the Cucina menu, and a Fruit Plate for dessert. It was a very good and enjoyable meal and was served and finished within 75 minutes. We passed under the Skyway Bridge during dinner at approximately 6:30 pm. After dinner, I attended the first comedy show featuring Kim Harrison. I enjoyed it and met her after the show, although this was my first time to actually see her we knew each other by reputation…good or bad :-). Another walkabout including looking for plums or cookies from the Lido, but ended up later ordering some cookies from Room Service for an evening snack. It was a great turn-around day on the Carnival Paradise.

 

Day Seven — Sunday --  August 28th, 2022 — Fun Day at Sea 

Smooth seas overnight and I slept very well and late. I did some early morning housekeeping arranging laundry service and ordering a proper fruit bowl. There were enough Diamonds on board to justify a Diamond Luncheon and it was held at 11:00 am in the Destiny Restaurant. I met my cruise friends and we sat with new friends at a roundtop table at the entry next to the entertainer. Hotel Director Hugo introduced the Senior Staff and there were sufficient cocktail servers to make everyone happy. The menu was the standard for Diamonds and I ordered both the Green Salad and Pork Belly appetizers and the NY Strip Steak entree. For dessert a fancy fruit plate and another Elderflower martini. It was a fun luncheon with new and old friends. As usual, following this event, it was nap time for me. I slept very well to 6:00 pm dinner time. I don’t do a lot of Elegant night dinners but having set time dining it is easier to do. Tonight I ordered a Creme of Mushroom Soup, Spaghetti Carbonara as a starter, and the Filet Mignon from the Steakhouse menu with a fruit plate for dessert. The soup and steak were excellent, We attended the first showing of the 80s Pop to the Max show in the Theater. It was a good show although not one of my favorites. Then we attended Kim Harrison’s adult comedy show…very entertaining and had lots of belly laughs. We decided to check out this new Piano Bar player Reynaldo and he turned out to be the best surprise entertainment of the evening. Great talent and personable and learning the Piano Bar system. We were later joined by our new friends from lunch and amazingly we all had seats at the Piano. It was different and Fun. A late night for me retiring after 11:00 pm. It was a fun and entertaining sea day on the Carnival Paradise.

 

Day Eight — Monday -- August 29th, 2022 — Mahogany Bay, Isla Roatan

Smooth seas again and I slept well. I was up early and updated this blog. The WiFi in my new cabin is much better than on the last cruise. Not that fast but adequate. I had breakfast in the Elation MDR…Eggs Benedict, Bacon, Hash Browns, & Melon. We are docked in Mahogany Bay today but I’m planning on staying onboard as I have a lot of business to transact today and did so all morning. I took a walkabout at about 11:30 to allow Gede and the team to clean my cabin. I saw both old & new friends out on Serenity Deck…seems experienced cruisers tend to stay onboard in many ports. I had a Guy’s burger and asked them to grill the meat fresh for me and they did…much better than last week's burger. It’s a hot and humid day today so I was happy to get back to the cabin to return to work after being on deck a while. My ocean view cabin runs about 5° warmer than my interior cabin last cruise, but I do have a fan that helps maintain temperatures of about 71° - 72°. I finished up my work at about 4:30 pm. and then began thinking about my special dinner tonight. I booked the Chef’s Table as I had seen it being held in the Library on the previous cruise. It looked interesting and I like the venue, the Library is decorated in a unique nautical theme so I signed up on the first night of the cruise with our Maitre’D in the Destiny MDR. Our group of 16 met at 6:00 pm in the Lobby area and then went up to the Library. We had assigned seating and they did a group photo to begin. It was a three+ hour experience that include the Executive Chef, the Magician, and a select service team. I’ll post the complete menu at the end of this review but the major courses were: Chef’s Taste - Duck - Our Surf & Turf - Sea Bass - Lamb - Prime NY Strip - Patisserie - Mignardises. It was an enjoyable experience, it’s been years since I did my last Chef’s table, and since the Paradise has no premium restaurants, by far the best meal on this ship. Afterward just a short walk across to the Piano Bar for some time with Reynaldo and friends. It’s interesting as Reynaldo is new to the Piano Bar format so he is learning as he goes and seems surprised by some of the popular sing-along songs and piano bar tunes with the non-published crowd responses. He did Family Tradition for the first time and once he got the crowd responses, (not in his music sheet) it clicked with him and he loved it. It was more fun watching him learn than the tunes themselves. He would do a classical show tune in which he was trained and was wonderful. I soon retired my old bones…it was a unique day on the Carnival Paradise.

 

Day Nine -- Tuesday -- August 30th, 2022 -- Cozumel, Mexico 

Again smooth seas overnight and just enough waves for nice sleeping. I was up early to balance an account from yesterday's work and update this blog as the internet is a bit faster in the wee hours. I went back to sleep and then was up for our late arrival at Puerto Maya. I went to my 2nd favorite place in Cozumel: Del Mar Resort with friends and others from the ship. Walked there from the ship arriving at about noon ship time which gave us plenty of time for the all-inclusive spirits and food as they are on central time now on the island…five hours. I started with a quick dip in the pool to cool off from the walk and ordered a diet Coke, Pico de Gallo, Chips, and Guacamole to start. Luckily it was an overcast day so not as hot as it could have been. Met new friends from other ships as well as our own and everyone was in a happy mood, Over the course of the day, I had numerous Mojitos, Coconut Shrimp, Mojitos, Guacamole, Mojitos, grilled Pollo with Salad & Potatoes (see photo), Mojitos, Ice Creme, and more. I more than closed them down as I stayed beyond service hours just to use the fast internet service. I walked back to the ship arriving closer to 7:00 pm so two late departure times in a row for Cozumel. I like it. Kudos to my cabin steward Gede who refilled the ice bucket again knowing of my later arrival back on board. That's excellent extra personal service. After a brief rest and cleaning the sand off I went to the Elation MDR for dinner, good to see my servers from the previous cruise and they even gave me my old table #201. The location, service, and food were very good. I ordered the Wild Rice & Chicken Soup, BBQ Pork Spareribs, Poulet Farcie (stuffed chicken breast), and a Fruit Plate for dessert. Just a very short walk-about on the ship then retiring by 9:30 after a busy day. It was a FUN port day in Cozumel.

 

Day Ten -- Wednesday --  August 31st, 2022 —Fun Day at Sea 

For the first time a little bit of rolling seas overnight as we transitioned from the Caribbean into the Gulf of Mexico. I was up early again to get a little better internet while updating this blog. I had fruit for breakfast from my B2B complementary Fruit Basket from the Hotel Director. It’s very nice that they have a refill card so you can get fresh and specific fruit items. I struggled through the crappy internet even going forward to the Bridge to get better reception. Nope. The fortunate thing about that walk is that I saw a Dolphin swim from under the ship…it was cool in the beautiful blue seawater. Best Dolphin sighting I have seen in these waters. I was at Guy’s Burgers soon after they opened at noon. The burgers were nice and hot, but I forgot to get the new Funderstruck burger…I will next voyage. Busy this afternoon, but did another walk about and cashed out my casino card…yes, I played a few slots this cruise. I was testing what it takes to get a casino fare offer. I came out ahead by $17 + my $25 cash Diamond free-play…so now I’ll wait a while to see if any casino offers come about. The interline offers to Travel Agents are pretty much over now. The Diamond and Platinum party was held at 5:00 pm in the Queen Mary Lounge. A full room with live music and numerous bar servers so everyone was content with their cocktails, including me. Dinner at 6:00 pm in the Destiny MDR just below the lounge so very convent. Tonight I ordered the Dill Lemon Comfort Soup, two Étouffée of Langoustine, Cobb Salad, Jerk Pork Loin entree, and the Bobaloo Cake for dessert. The Langoustine, entree, and dessert were the 50th birthday selections from old Carnival menus. The soup was the best item IMHO. Next was the second feature production: 80s Pop to the Max. A good show, better than the previous one. Some casual time until the Piano Bar (photo) opened at 9:00 pm. Reynaldo is so personable and he attempted all the songs he promised to learn by the last evening. The crowd was the regulars from the previous evenings and seemed to love Reynaldos efforts. His talent and voice are excellent and he will soon master this venue. He did learn the David Alan Coe classic Perfect Country Song to the delight of the room. It was a lovely final day on the Carnival Paradise.

 Debarkation — Thursday --  September 1st, 2022 -- Port of Tampa
Smooth sailing on our final night, but didn't sleep that well ... Up very early, in fact, saw us pass under the Sunshine Parkway Bridge @ 3:50 am. But I did finalize this review and pack. I had a nice final day breakfast in the Elation at table #201. Eggs Benedict, Bacon, Hash Browns, and Danish. I rolled off the ship at about 7:10 am with the Diamond Group, went through customs, then and walked over to the Aquarium to be picked up around 8:15 am. An easy port.


Personal HIGHLIGHTS of the Cruises
Snorkeling with the Turtles in Grand Cayman
The Piano Bar
The Diamond Gathering & Luncheon
Two Cozumel Port Days

 

Sunshine Parkway Bridge Times
Out bound: 6:30 pm.  In bound: 3:50 am

Carnival Breeze Cruise Review - May 14 & 19, 2022

 

Just the Facts:
Ship:  Carnival Breeze
Sailing:  May 14-22, 2022
Captain:  Isidoro Renda    Cruise Director: Cookie
Ports: Galveston- Cozumel, Mexico (2) - Costa Maya, Mexico - Galveston

I am sailing another B2B on my favorite Carnival Ship. This is my 16th &17th cruises on the Carnival Breeze, my 99th and 100th Carnival cruises, and my 180th &181st cruises overall.  I am sailing as a solo.

Day One -- Saturday --  May 14th, 2022 -- Port of Galveston  Embarkation

The day began early on Twisted Oak Ranch. I was up early and finished packing and hit the road south at about 4:45 am as Carnival moved up arrival times an hour for all guests…so my time was moved from 10:00 am to 9:00 am.  One-stop at Love’s in Hearne, TX then straight through to EZ Cruise Parking arriving about 9:05 am. Glad I made reservations as they were full as the Vista was also on turnaround day today. I parked and walked over to Terminal Two and it was still very busy with debarkation guests. I love the look of the newly painted livery on the Breeze, I'll post a photo once we are in a port. I made my way to the entry and surprisingly they were boarding at that earlier hour. I was through Security and Check-in and seated at about 9:45 in the waiting area with only a short wait for a 10:15 am boarding. I rolled my bags with me as I always do and dropped them at my cabin by 10:25 am. Relatively easy process. Sweet. I then went to have a very nice early Mongolian Wok Stir-fry lunch by 10:30am. Sweet again. (photo right) Muster drill was next that took all of 10 minutes at Muster Station B-4 in the Blush Dining Room. I then sat out on deck 11 until cabins were officially opened…then set up my cabin. I did have a nice nap after they stopped with the muster announcements from 4:00-to 6:00. I had cabin time then went up to the Lido Marketplace for dinner. I had the Breaded Shrimp and a salad… a very nice dinner. Early evenings are nice on deck, I enjoyed the sunset and the view of the Carnival Vista following us.  I went to the Casino and played my $25 free play, didn't do that well but came back with $5 in real chips...I'll try again next cruise. I went to the Alchemy Bar  about 8:30 and met old and new friends and enjoyed seeing the Alchemy team. Anca and Ivana are two of my very favorites and met Alexandra from Serbia. Ivana prepared a very nice cocktail for me with Absinthe. It was very good. The new to me Breeze Rock Band performed tonight and was very good. It will be hard to duplicate the previous one but we’ll see. I retired to the cabin after their first set and my first cocktail. Some work to do before sleep. It was a long but very sweet embarkation day on the Carnival Breeze.

  

Day Two -- Sunday --  May 15th, 2022 -- Fun Day at Sea  

Smooth seas overnight and I slept very well. I was up early. I don’t have a balcony this cruise so I keep the TV on the forward ship camera so I know when the sun rises…the music is nice too. The internet is really slow this morning, I hope it improves. I’m on my only two meals a day plan so no breakfast this morning. I did some work online and updated this blog. At 11:00 am I went to the Diamond Party in the Limelight Lounge. I saw several good friends there including some kin, Joe & Ola McDonald, it’s always good to catch up with them, I think Joe is on board for 3+ months this stretch. The two Bloody Mary’s held me until lunchtime. About noon I went to Cucina de Capitano and had a small Caesar Salad, Bread, and two nice Pasta Bowls. I like the Tomato Basil Sauce with Penne and the Bolognese with Linguini. It was very good. I enjoyed a nice walkabout on the outer decks in the perfect weather then retired to the cabin for a nice long nap. No MDR for me on this elegant night, I went to the Lido Marketplace for some Prime Rib from the Carving Station. Then I enjoyed the aft deck to watch the wake and the nice sunset. Interesting people-watching too. I then went to Alchemy Bar to see the new Breeze Rock Band in Ocean Plaza (photo). I was able to get a seat with a friend. I had the same absinthe cocktail that Ivana prepared the previous night. It was a fun evening, the band play 80s Music including one of my favorite Torch Songs: At Last, the classic Etta James tune. I saw so many friends including my Bosque County neighbor, a Tarrant County friend I have known for 40 years, Cruise Director Cookie, and several others. Since I was fresh from a nice afternoon nap I stayed through 2+ sets of the Band and another cocktail, but I wanted to go to the outer deck to see the eclipse of the full moon. The eclipse was pretty spectacular at sea, probably looked good from Bosque County too. I then retired to the cabin, it was a FUN and interesting day on the Carnival Breeze.  

Day Three -- Monday --  May 16th, 2022 -- Costa Maya Mexico 

Smooth seas overnight and I slept well. I went to the Lido Marketplace and the Omelet Station as it’s just above my aft cabin location and easy at an early hour. I had a nice Western Omelet with a side of bacon, potatoes, and mixed fruits. It wasn’t special, but adequate. We don’t arrive at port until 1:00 pm so I returned to the cabin for some internet time as the WiFi is much improved. Inspired by the torch music last night I played my personal music on the travel JBL while working. I went up on deck to watch our arrival at the port, the Carnival Ecstasy was docked as well and also had a late arrival. It’s already in the mid 90° degree range so I’m not planning on getting off today. I had a nice stir-fry from the Mongolian Wok before it closed at 2:00 pm then went to the cabin for a movie, then a very nice nap, I have been getting some rest so far this cruise, the interior cabin helps. I went up on deck 10 aft for our late sail away, it was after sunset by the time we sailed so an evening sail away was different. I had discovered an interesting cocktail recipe when confirming the spelling of absinthe on google for this blog, so I saved it to my phone and took it to the Alchemy Bar tonight. It had two of my favorite ingredients: Absinthe and Elderflower, so I was anxious to try it. The beautiful Alchemist Anca recognized the potential, especially for me, and did a great job. Just basic ingredients: Absinthe, Elderflower, Pineapple juice, Lemon & Lime. Sweeter than most Absinthe drinks and the pineapple neutralized that anise taste in the Absinthe. It was great, but as with all Absinthe drinks best in moderation. Perfect for an alternative or to alternate. The Breeze Band was off tonight but the soloist Scott Lucille on the Ocean Plaza stage was good. After visiting with friends I retired to the cabin and ordered a Room Service BLT sandwich. They have made a change now using Turkey Bacon, but they are still one of the best food items on the ship. I had not had one in a while so I enjoined them. I watched a late TCM movie before sleep. It was a nice relaxing day on the Carnival Breeze.

Day Four -- Tuesday --  May 17th, 2022 -- Cozumel Mexico 

Smooth seas overnight and I slept well. I was up at about 6:30 am and updated this blog while waiting to arrive at Puerto Costa Maya in Cozumel. About 8:30 I began my journey to Del Mar Latino the beach club located about a half-mile (total) walk south from the ship. I like the ease of getting there with no taxi involved. I started with diet Coca-Cola then changed to Mojitos after my early lunch or breakfast for me. The Guacamole with Pico de Gallo is good as are the quesadillas. I did take a nice swim in the water as well as several times in the pool, it was refreshing in the 90°+ weather. The Coconut Shrimp was excellent and I had coconut ice creme as well. The mojitos were plentiful and good. The place cleared by 2:30 pm so I had it to myself for an hour. Sweet. I had my share of Mojitos and even took a roadie for my walk back to Puerto Maya Pier. Had my photo taken at the Cozumel sign across from the Park Royal Resort. Terry & I stayed there 40 years ago on our first trip together to Cozumel… which was well before cruise ships called there…so different now. I wanted to go to Cozumel because of the 1980s movie Against All Odds and we stayed about two weeks, we loved the island, it was a more intimate and remote place then. I was back on the ship by 4:00 pm. and cleaned up and recall sailaway, but I put my head on the pillow and was soon asleep. I woke in time to get dinner from the Marketplace Buffet, I had a little sample of several items (I think I was asleep and didn’t know what I wanted): Penne Pasta Bolognese, BBQ Pork SpareRibs, Cinnamon Pumpkin Cheese Pie, Crusted Chicken, Coleslaw, Baked Potato, and a small salad. I took watermelon and cookies back to the cabin. I updated this blog and communicated with the Ranch to check our moving status before listening to music and retiring. It was a fun and nostalgic port day in Cozumel.

 

Day Five -- Wednesday --  May 18th, 2022 -- Fun Day at Sea  

Smooth seas overnight and I slept very well and it’s a beautiful clear day. The good news for today is that vaccinated B2B cruisers no longer have to have an antigen rapid before their second cruise. They did a good job with it on this ship in the past, but no test on this final sea day is better. I had a big proper breakfast this morning, I went to the Sea Day Brunch. I ordered: Bloody Mary, Hot Milk, Tomato Juice, Steak & Eggs, Hash Browns, Bacon, and French Toast. All very good. I went to Pixels to get my gift, another drink koozie, and a pin. A lot of guests are out and about enjoying their last day onboard the ship. At 11:30 they had the Platinum and Diamond Party in the Ovation Theater, there were a lot of guests, but not that many Diamonds. I was actually on stage with the other McDonalds: Joe & Ola (photo right). Between the three of us, there are 4000 days sailed. The vast majority by the two of them. I enjoyed a good Bloody Mary (not from the pre-made on the tray) and a Pilsner Urquell. I have grown from quantity to quality on my complimentary drinks. Afterward, I just enjoyed the ship and visited with friends. About 3:00 pm I had my first Guy’s Burgers of the cruise. Always a popular place even at an unusual time. It was then Cabin time for a wee nap. I went up to the Lido Marketplace at about 7:30 for a light dinner with a small Carrot Cake and Watermelon for sweets. I sat on the aft deck through sundown and after dark just enjoying the aft view and sea. We are already well within the large Oil Rigs off the Texas coast. I retired early to the cabin, but while most guests are packing I have another four days. It was a restful sea day at sea on the Carnival Breeze.

 

 Day One of 2nd Cruise — Thursday --  May 19th, 2022 -- Port of Galveston 

Center of Tuesdays Cozumel photo

This is the beginning of the 2nd leg of B2B. They are expecting over 3700+ for this 4-day cruise, a full ship at double capacity. Smooth seas overnight and I was up by 6:00 am as we were sailing into Galveston. I have the same cabin so no moving this morning. I went very early to the MDR for breakfast: Eggs Benedict, Avocado Toast, Bacon, Hash-brown Potatoes, Tomato Juice & hot Milk. The B2B instructions said to be in Sapphire MDR at 7:45, obviously too early, just finishing breakfast, but I did go down there about 8:45 still too early but I knew friends would be there and I’d have WiFi. I checked in with the Ranch, visited, had the new photo taken, received new S&S cards, then finally went through customs at about 10:15 am. They did the Champagne and Photo so things are getting normalized. We had the ship for 45 minutes as they didn’t board guests until 11:00 am. I went to the Mongolian Grill by 11:00 am for a fantastic Stir-fry bowl. Next was the Muster/safety drill in the Blush MDR on deck 3…quick and easy. Embarkation day check-list is complete. I went up on deck 11 to watch sail away, it is a hot 92° day, but a breeze on the Starboard side. The new Royal Caribbean Terminal is coming along nicely…the exterior seems to be near complete. I went to the Alchemy Bar for a few cocktails and saw friends from past cruises. Always fun at Alchemy. I went to the Sapphire Dining Room for dinner tonight. I ordered the Mixed Green Salad, Roasted Tomato Soup, Nonna’s Dish, and the Braised Beef Brisket with a Fruit plate for dessert. It was average at the best, The Nonna’s Dish was the Cucina del Capitano item, it sounded wonderful on the menu, but it was nothing like what was served at Cucina. It was the worst item served, it wasn’t as good as the Penne Pasta they always serve at the Lido Marketplace. I retired to the cabin by 9:00 pm for a movie and rest. It was a very nice embarkation day on the Carnival Breeze.

 

Day Two of 2nd Cruise — Friday --  May 20th, 2022 -- Fun Day at Sea  

Rolling seas overnight, much more movement than any day last cruise, and I slept very well. I was up early as usual and updated this blog and use the WiFi before it gets busy and slowed down. I went to the Blue Iguana before it closed at 10:00 for my favorite breakfast on Carnival: Huevos Rancheros with two fresh fried eggs, Pico de Gallo, Salsa, Arepas, and Watermelon (photo). It was very good and my first time eating there on this cruise. I sat on deck 11 enjoying the weather and activity on the pool deck until the DJ started…I guess I’m getting old as the music was too loud for me…of course, I was directly in front of the speakers being on deck 11 and the Seaview Theater system. I went on a walkabout this afternoon and also picked up my $25 Free-play at the casino. I saved it until I was on deck 4 and the non-smoking casino…I had much better luck today…I came away with $75 in real chips so I’m up $80 for the two cruises. I’ll carry it on to the next cruise as I did last year when I started on the Breeze. I also visited Cherry on Top and bought some assorted candy. I watched two movies and then watched the OU Softball team's first game in the NCAA Championship. During this time I decide to order Room Service and enjoyed a Turkey Sandwich and a Turkey BLT. They were excellent. A walkabout before sundown as usual But I let time getaway and didn’t go by Alchemy or eat so I ended up ordering a Ruben Sandwich from room service since I enjoyed the other two so much, the same girl delivered it too…I guess I seemed a bit of a hermit to her this afternoon and evening. The Ruben was as good as the earlier sandwiches. It was a very restful sea day on the Carnival Breeze.

Day Three of 2nd Cruise — Saturday -- May 21st, 2022 -- Cozumel, Mexico 

Rolling seas with a few bumps as we transitioned from the Gulf of Mexico into the Caribbean Sea overnight but I slept very well. I woke about 6:00ish as usual and about 9:00ish we were arriving in Cozumel…the Ecstasy docked just before us at Puerto Maya pier. The weather looks like rain today. About 9:45 am I had breakfast in the Lido Marketplace while the early guests were leaving the ship. About 10:15 am I left the ship and met with friends at the pier and we shared a taxi into San Miguel. We visited at Woody’s Bar and Grill until noon and then I was off to do my thing. The first stop was the Zensi Spa for a Pedicure then Antonio's Barber Shop for a haircut. When I got back to Woody’s I enjoyed my Guacamole, Pico de Gallo, Chips, and several Bohemia Clara Cerveza. I was able to follow the OU Sooners softball playoff game online and since the Mardi Gras Festival was moved from February to this weekend I watched the Youth parade (photo) in the afternoon. Wish I could see the big parade tonight, but that will have to be another time. I took a taxi back (160 pesos) to Puerto Maya pier and the ship at about 4:00 pm. After a clean-up, I went early to the Alchemy Bar and visited with friends. I brought some black licorice that Anca used in preparing my Absinthe cocktail, it was very good. I went to the Lido Marketplace for another of a ‘little of this and a little of that’ dinner. I did take cookies back to the cabin for late-night munchies. Very few guests out and about this evening, probably a combination of Cozumel activities and the high seas ever since we departed. Another movie and cookies before sleep. It was a great port day in Cozumel.

 

Day Four of 2nd Cruise — Sunday -- May 22nd, 2022 -- Fun Day at Sea 

Rolling seas with a few bumps as we transitioned from the Caribbean Sea back into the Gulf of Mexico and experienced a thunderstorm overnight…but I slept well. I was awake early as usual so updated this blog and reviewed the late college softball scores. OU will play today for Regional Championship. About 10:00 am I went to the Sea Day Brunch in the Blush Dining Room I had a great share table with two nice couples, one of which are big Sooner softball fans. Breakfast was great, I ordered: Hot Milk, Tomato Juice, Steak & Eggs, Hash Browns, Bacon, Ham, and French Toast. Service by I Made and Ary was excellent. It’s very cloudy weather so most guests are indoors this morning. Difficult to stream the softball game in the deteriorating weather but I was able to follow it play-by-play on Game Tracker. Oklahoma 20 TX A&M 0 so OU is in the Super Regional (Sweet 16) tournament. I went to the Alchemy Bar and it was packed early in the day…the Red Frog had more guests than an embark Happy Hour…basically, all indoor venues are busy. Kudos to the Entertainment Director for starting entertainment as early as he could. I have always thought that they should have sea day entertainment, Trivia Games just doesn’t cover it. The numerous Soloists or even a Comedian doing a matinée would be wonderful…IMHO. I was lucky to get a Guy’s Burger as it was closing and I helped myself to a plate of cookies to take back to the cabin. I’m doing movie night again and resting up for the work I will be starting tomorrow afternoon packing up for the move to Florida. My meeting time for debarkation in the morning is 7:15 am. I updated this blog and as promised a photo of the new livery on the Breeze taken by my friend in Cozumel on Saturday...looks good. It was a rainy and cloudy final day on the Carnival Breeze.

 

Debarkation — Monday -- May 23rd, 2022 -- Port of Galveston

Smooth seas overnight. I woke early and had plenty of time to update this blog and finish packing. I went up to the Lido Marketplace early and had a nice omelet, bacon, ham, and grapefruit…it was very good. Nice final breakfast onboard the ship. I then finalized my packing and went to the Diamond meet area at 7:15 am. We began to debark by 8:00 am and I was among the first off the ship. I did the easy walk to the EZ Cruise parking lot. I was off the island by 8:30 am and at the Ranch at 12:30 pm. That included a stop at Love’s in Hearne for Fuel ($4.25 gal) and Bush’s Chicken in Clifton. A good debarkation and travel morning for sure.

 
 

Personal HIGHLIGHTS of the Cruises
Both Cozumel Port Days
Alchemy Bar and the lovely & talented Alchenists
Mongolian Wok

Room Service Food
Diamond Party