On May 2nd we embarked on Carnival’s ship Victory for a seven day cruise of the eastern Caribbean.

This was the first time either of us had been on a cruise and we both had a wonderful time. Indeed, it was probably the best vacation either of us can remember. The food and accommodations were great and we met some very nice people we enjoyed being with.

Breafast and lunch were open seating and there was alternative dining for all meals. We chose to eat dinner at our assigned because we really liked the people that were seated there. Below is a picture of the two of us standing next to Mike and Steve. Seated are Maria, Denise, Susan and Wanda.

This is another picture of the eight of us taken with Mike’s camera.

The thing that makes a cruise so wonderful is that everything is all so easy!! It’s right there. If you want something to eat, it’s readily available. If you feel like seeing a show, just stroll down to the cabaret or drop by one of many piano bars. If you want exercise, a gym and/or pool are right there, etc...

Below is a picture of Susan at her favorite slot machine. You can click on all the photos to see a larger, higher resolution version.

The food was great!! -- and plentiful.

The waitstaff was friendly and provided nightly entertainment.

Every evening, there was entertainment in the caberet.

Thanks to our steward, every evening we were greeted by the most amazing towel animals.

Below are some pictures we took on the ship.

The ship had a large electronic map showing the route. At one point, Jason got some help from a friendly passenger, but most of the time we managed to find the route for ourselves.

Our room had a balcony which we really enjoyed.

We spent 7 wonderful days at sea and in the ports of San Juan, Puerto Rico; Charlotte Amalie, St. Thomas and Phillipsburg, St. Martin.

We visited Puerto Rico first where we spent the evening strolling around Old San Juan. There was also an international crafts fair in full swing during our visit which added to the local color.

Our second port of call was St. Thomas where we went snorkeling at Paradise Cove. We got there on a open bus while crossing the mountains. The beach was beautiful and the water a clear blue color; just like the travel ads on T.V. The tropical fish were abundant and beautiful. They were friendly and swam right up to us. We also went shopping at the duty free stores and bought a few trinkets to bring home.

Our third port of call was St. Martin. This island is split between two governments. We docked on the Dutch side, which had more duty free stores. Then we took a bus over to the French side, which was a wonderful ride through more beautiful mountains.

Our tour guide told us a great deal about the island and its people. Then we arrived at a dock where we took a water taxi to beautiful, secluded Pinel Island where Bob went snorkeling some distance from the shore at a reef while Jason relaxed in comfort on another incredibly beautiful beach.

The cruise culminated with two more beautiful days at sea.