The Breathtaking Getaway on Carnival Cruise Ship
We were part of an incredible journey cruising the Caribbean waters aboard the Carnival Cruise Ship Horizon. We embarked on a six-day Western Caribbean cruise from Miami, Florida, together with a group of 14. This special trip was a celebration of an 80th birthday, and Miami’s scenic views became the perfect starting point for our memorable journey.
Departure from Miami
From the moment we met up with the birthday girl, Grandma, and the rest of the group, we were filled with anticipation. Miami’s charm unfolded before our very eyes as the ship prepared to sail. As we lounged on the highest floor of the ship, we caught glimpses of downtown Miami and South Beach.
The Spacious Ship
We were pleasantly surprised by the size of the room that exceeded our expectations. The Carnival Cruise Ship Horizon, a recent addition to the fleet launched in 2017, is replete with amenities that add more entertainment to the journey, including water slides, rides, an IMAX theater, a casino, and numerous specialty restaurants.
Discovering the Caribbean
From the delightful Caribbean cruise, we even got a spectacular view of Cuba’s mountainous region. Then came our first stop, Jamaica, where we indulged in a hearty breakfast before setting off on the Ocho Rios tour. Ocho Rios, once a fishing village, is now transformed into a bustling resort area surrounded by beautiful rainforests. The mountainous overlook offered impeccable sights of Ocho Rios.
The Pristine Beach of Jamaica
Following our exploration of Ocho Rios, we headed to the invigoratingly warm waters of Mahogany Beach. The warm water felt rejuvenating and was a stark contrast to Lake Michigan’s cooler temperature. This extraordinary beach has a fascinating grotto where freshwater from the rivers pour in from the nearby mountains, joining the Caribbean sea, creating an awe-inspiring view.
The Captivating Presence of Grand Cayman
Our next destination took us to Grand Cayman. The journey was made via small boats as the waters were too shallow for the larger ship. The flawless white sands and turquoise waters of the seven-mile beach in the Grand Cayman beckoned us to soak in its warm, comforting embrace. It is no wonder that this beach is hailed as one of the best in the Caribbean.
Unearthing the History in Cozumel, Mexico
Your Caribbean cruise will feel incomplete without the enriching history and culture of Cozumel, Mexico. This Mexican island, situated to the east of Playa de Carmen and Cancun, allowed us to get up close and personal with a replica of the Mayan temple. This was followed by a tour of the actual Mayan ruins in Cozumel.
A Taste of Mexican Tradition
Cozumel gave us an opportunity to get a taste of Mexico’s culinary tradition through chocolate, tortillas, and tequila tasting. We also visited a tequila production site, learning how the ichigabe plant takes eight to ten years to mature to produce tequila.
Our day in Cozumel ended at the captivating east side of the island watching a breathtaking view of the sunset. The adventurous day was bathed in the golden hues of the setting sun, with the last light bidding goodbye to a trip that imprinted vivid memories in our hearts.
Reflecting on the Expansive Beauty
From scenic views to immersive experiences, there was much to take away from our journey aboard the Carnival Cruise Ship Horizon. Every stop allowed us to dive deeper into the charm of the Caribbean, while the onboard amenities kept us entertained throughout. Whether it was the sightseeing tour around Ocho Rios, chocolate tasting, or exploring the east side of Cozumel, each day presented a new adventure, proving that the beauty of the Caribbean is truly boundless and breathtaking.