Norwegian Sky - Birthday Cruise to the tropical beaches of the Bahamas
Pepe surprised me with a birthday cruise (August 2019) on the Norwegian Sky for four nights, five days. Originally, the cruise was to port in Cuba for two nights. But due to the travel restrictions enacted in July, cruise lines were modifying their itinerary and no longer sailing to Cuba. Our itinerary was modified to now include Nassau, Freeport, and Great Stirrup Cay. Pepe was a bit disappointed as he really wanted me to see Cuba but I was nevertheless excited for another amazing cruise together.
The Sky was smaller than the previous cruise ship we had sailed. We stayed in an interior room as we rarely spend any time in the room other than to nap and shower. However, the interior was smaller than any room we had seen. It was a bit tight but got the job done! To get around the ship was a maze. Elevators always took a long time to get to the floors, so we opted for stairs - even if going up or down multiple levels.
Check-in was a breeze and only took few minutes. Upon check-in, we went through several security check points before we could actually board the ship. Once on board, the buffet was open for lunch and the bar for much needed drinks to kick off the cruise. We really wanted to change as it was extremely hot but our suitcases did not arrive to our room until close to 6pm. So, we stayed on the pool deck to enjoy the ocean, sun, and drinks. For smokers, the only smoking section is Floor 11 at the sports bar. You can smoke in the casino only if you’re playing. Casino does not open until approximately 5pm.
With several dining options, you cannot go hungry on the ship. From the buffet to the specialty dining (steakhouse, Italian, Asian), and not to mention the wings at the Local Bar (open till 5am for wings!!), the food did not disappoint us. The service, on the other hand, needs a lot of work. The servers and bartenders were rude and seemed as if they did not want to be there - regardless of how much we tipped. To make your drinks last longer in the heat, bring a Yeti to pour drinks in. Keeps them from melting or getting warm quickly.
The Sky also offers nightly entertainment in the theater starting around 9pm. Bring a jacket or shawl as it is FREEZING in the theater.
Blue Lagoon
At one of the ports, we took an excursion out to Blue Lagoon Island. On the island, a buffet lunch is included but beverages must be purchased via cash or credit card. The Yeti comes in handy here! Cruise cards do not work on the island. Beach chairs are also provided, but bring your own towels. Once the rain stopped, we were able to enjoy the sun and the water.
Great Stirrup Cay
We were one of the first ferries to leave from the cruise ship to arrive at GSC which worked out great because we were able to get a comfortable spot in the shade, close to the bar, and ocean. Beach chairs were provided at no charge but umbrellas were available only on one side of the island - close to the villas. However, that would’ve put us on the rocky side of the island. The shaded area we found worked wonders! Lunch buffet and drinks were included on GSC. The Yeti comes in handy here, as well! It was a gorgeous island! Water was calm where we could actually float on a rented floaty.
What to pack
Yeti (I found mine on Amazon)
Selfie-stick (I found mine on Amazon and wow! It is extremely convenient. Folds up nicely to fit in a beach bag/backpack/handbag)
Bluetooth speaker for the room or the pool/beach - We have this Bose speaker we take with us on vacation
Day wear:
beach flip flops / sandals
swimsuits - here are a few recommendations:
Swimsuit cover-ups - here are a few recommendations:
Sundresses/shorts/tank tops, if you are not going to the beach, pool, or a water excursion
Night time:
Casual - jeans/shorts/cute tops
Dresses - a few recommendations
Heels or flats depending on the attire
