Vacations To Go

 

New Year's on a Cruise

 

Day 1 Thursday December 25th  
Barb & Tim:      
12:10 p.m. Depart: Spokane  
  Do: Flight 787  
7:29 p.m. Arrive: Atlanta  
10:30 p.m. Depart: Atlanta  
  Do: Flight 1229  
12:22 a.m. Arrive: Ft Lauderdale  
  Lodge: Best Western Plus Ft Lauderdale Hollwood Airport Hotel
2601 N 29th Avenue
Hollywood, FL 33020
 

 

Day 2 Friday December 26th  
Ray & Sherry:      
6:30 a.m. Depart: Spokane  
  Do: Flight 1615  
11:32 a.m. Arrive: Minneapolis-St Paul  
1:00 p.m. Depart: Minneapolis-St Paul  
  Do: Flight 1619  
5:42 p.m. Arrive: Fort Lauderdale  
  Lodge:    

 

Day 3 Saturday December 27th  
  Do: Breakfast  
  Depart: Hotel  
3:00 p.m. Do: Embark on Holland America Koningsdam  

 

Day 4 Sunday December 28th  
  Do: Day at Sea  
  Lodge: Holland America Koningsdam  

 

Day 5 Monday December 29th  
7:00 a.m. Arrive: Grand Turk, Turks and Caicos  
  Do: Swim in the ocean or at Margaritaville (free)  
7:30 a.m.   Charming Grand Turk by Open-Air Tram $44.95 (2 hrs)
Charming Grand Turk by Open Air Wheelchair Accessible

Your perfect way to tour Grand Turk might be by open-air wheeled tram. From a comfortable seat, you'll take in the island scenery and learn about local life.

Heading through historical downtown Cockburn, take advantage of a 20-minute stop to shop for souvenirs or purchase a snack (at your own expense).

There's time to explore the lighthouse area and take photos of the striking Turks & Caicos landscapes.

The route back to the pier takes you past the salt ponds. You may be lucky enough to see flamingos feeding on the algae, insects, invertebrates and crustaceans found in the ponds.

Notes:

Shade is limited; to avoid sunburn, wear light, long clothing suitable for use as a cover-up. Bring a hat and sunglasses; wear biodegradable sunscreen. Bring bottled water.

Accessible: Only guests using a wheelchair can book this tour, as it ensures accessible transportation. Due to the limited capacity of the seating area for guests using a wheelchair, priority is given to guests using a wheelchair and one companion only; additional companions may be required to travel in a different section of the transportation. Bookings not marked with an accessibility requirement will be removed from the tour's inventory. Shade is limited; to avoid sunburn, wear light, long clothing suitable for use as a cover-up. Bring a hat and sunglasses; wear biodegradable sunscreen. Bring bottled water.

 
7:30 a.m.   Rainbow Calypso Tram $49.95 (2 hrs)

Seize this opportunity to enjoy island sightseeing with a complete circumnavigation of Grand Turk. This 7.5-mile-long island is filled with history, culture and an unforgettable rustic charm. Step aboard a tram destined for five of the most interesting stops on the island.

Cruising along Duke Street, listening to soft calypso music, you will see the island's old Bermudian-style homes. Panoramic views include talcum powder-like beaches and the stunning Caribbean Sea, little changed since Christopher Columbus sailed past in the 15th century. This is also the land of the 17th-century buccaneers, who used Grand Turk as a bolthole between raids on passing ships.

Stop in Cockburn Town to browse for souvenirs and taste some mouthwatering island dishes (at your own expense).

Back on the tram, you're accompanied by picturesque views as you head towards the northern tip of the island and the Grand Turk Lighthouse. Contemporary and traditional homes, views of the neighboring islands, and the famous and friendly Grand Turk donkeys are the attractions here.

Headed south, you will see some salt ponds that date back to the 16th century and have a chance to take photos here. Then, crossing over to the eastern side of the island, you will find yourself back at the cruise terminal.

Notes:

Wear comfortable walking shoes. Shade is limited; to avoid sunburn, wear light, long clothing suitable for use as a cover-up. Bring a hat and sunglasses; wear biodegradable sunscreen. Bring bottled water.


 
Barb & Tim: 8:00 a.m.-10:00 a.m. Ultimate Snorkeling Adventure $79.95 (2 hrs)

Swim in the Caribbean Sea on this incredible snorkel experience. This excursion will show you why Grand Turk is one of the world's top dive destinations.

You're headed to the 7,000-foot Wall -- the third largest and deepest barrier reef system in the world.

Snorkel in 20 feet of water as the knowledgeable crew guides you through the reef, identifying the fish and coral formations. When you reach the Wall, you will feel like Jacques Cousteau as you peer into the turquoise abyss and take in the exquisite marine life below you.

Your next stop is at the shallow coral gardens at Oasis Reef, where you will spend some time snorkeling the shallow waters.

Notes:

Minimum age is 5 years; maximum age is 70 years. Minimum height is 4 feet. Maximum weight is 250 lbs. Wear your swimsuit under your clothing; bring a towel, reef-safe/biodegradable sunscreen, light clothing to act as a full cover-up for further protection from the sun, and a hat. Swim at your own risk. Guests who are pregnant or have a heart or respiratory condition are not allowed to participate. Waiver must be signed and medical conditions disclosed. Participants must climb a ladder to re-board the boat after snorkeling. Participants must use the snorkel equipment provided by the tour operator; you cannot bring your own mask and snorkel.

 
3:00 p.m. Depart: Grand Turk  
  Lodge: Holland America Koningsdam  

 

Day 6 Tuesday December 30th  
1:00 p.m. Arrive: Puerto Rico  
1:30 p.m.-
5:00 p.m.
Do: Old San Juan Fortresses & Shopping $69.95 (3.5 hrs)

panoramic drive takes you first to Fort San Felipe del Morro -- the oldest Spanish fort in the New World. Standing guard at the entrance to San Juan, this six-story citadel boasts garitas, or sentry boxes, all around the fort's outer walls. The old cannons are still in place, and the fort boasts magnificent views.

Next, travel through the historic Old Town, filled with Spanish colonial buildings. Walk through centuries of history with visits to two massive and impressive fortresses set at opposite ends of Old San Juan.

Fort San Cristobal -- one of the largest defense bastions ever built in the Americas. Take time to see the chapel, real cannonballs, gunnery positions, and tunnels that offer a glimpse into the past.

After your tour, you'll return to the ship, stopping en route for shopping at the lovely Plaza Colon.

 
10:00 p.m. Depart: Puerto Rico  
  Lodge: Holland America Koningsdam  


Day 7 Wednesday December 31st- NEW YEAR'S EVE  
7:00 a.m. Arrive: St Thomas, US Virgin Islands  
9:30 a.m.   Historic St Thomas & Blackbeard's Castle $99.95 (3.5 hrs)

Experience the spectacular beauty of St Thomas, the charming historic district of the revitalized Kongens (King's) Quarter, and enjoy the famous Main Street duty-free shopping area.

A picturesque panoramic drive along Skyline Drive offers down-island views of the Caribbean Sea, Magen's Bay, and Charlotte Amalie. Take photos along the way.

At 17th-century Blackbeard's Castle, step back into the age of the Caribbean pirates. Explore the surrounding Kongens Quarter, the former center of Danish colonial enterprise, and see several National Landmark properties dating as far back as the late 1600s. Watch for Villa Notman, Britannia House, Crown House (once used by visiting Danish Royalty) and Hotel 1829 -- all listed in the National Registry of Historic Places.

See the world's largest collection of life-sized pirate sculptures, crafted in copper and bronze, and the world's most extensive collection of authentic handmade West Indian mahogany furniture.

Walk past lush tropical gardens and terraces and see the 99 Steps in the historic downtown core. Main Street is famous for its duty-free shopping.

When you're ready to head back to the ship, hop on the pre-arranged shuttle transportation from Emancipation Garden.

Notes:

Terrain includes several steps and uneven surfaces. Not advisable for guests using a wheelchair or for those with mobility limitations. Free time in between Blackbeard's Castle and downtown is approximately 2.5 hours.

 
8:30 a.m.-
12:00 p.m.
Barb & Tim:
Do: Shipwreck & Turtle Cove Two-Site Snorkel $119.95 (3.5 hrs)

This is the ultimate snorkel experience in clear, sparkling water, with plenty of fish, turtles and a shipwreck. Sail to Shipwreck and Turtle Coves traveling first class aboard the million-dollar, state-of-the-art Castaway Girl sailing catamaran. You'll sail in calm waters along the spectacular south coast of St Thomas with plenty of shade and wide-open sundecks.

Steps lead down into the sea for easy access. Enjoy 90 minutes of snorkeling at two different locations: over the old shipwreck at Shipwreck Cove, which teems with tropical fish and encrusted coral; and in Turtle Cove, where you can swim with the turtles and rays. The friendly, experienced crew will help you and guide you as they snorkel with you, pointing out the wondrous sights below.

The open bar includes sparkling wine, rum punch and other rum drinks after snorkeling. Water, fruit juice and soda are always available.
All snorkel gear, snorkel vests and noodles are provided. Full snorkel masks are not allowed. Snorkel site may vary based on weather and sea conditions. Not advisable for guests using a wheelchair or for those with mobility limitations. Maximum weight is 275 lbs. Maximum age is 80 years. Minimum age is 5 years. Wear your swimsuit under your clothing; bring a towel, reef-safe/biodegradable sunscreen, light clothing to act as a full cover-up for further protection from the sun, and a hat. Swim at your own risk. Waiver must be signed and medical conditions disclosed. Tour requires walking 300 yards (each way) to reach the boat.

 
7:30 a.m.-11:30 a.m.   St John: National Park Island $129.95 (4 hrs)

Departing via tour boat to St John, known as the Emerald of the Caribbean, you'll arrive in the charming town of Cruz Bay. Here, you'll board an open-air safari bus for a scenic drive around this beautiful island. Along the way, your driver/guide will provide insights about the island's rich history, lush tropical foliage and indigenous wildlife.

In addition to seeing the white-sand beaches and views of the British Virgin Islands, you'll see remnants of ruins from one of the last working plantations found on St John.

Back along the coast, stop for views of Cinnamon Bay, Trunk Bay, Hawksnest Bay and Caneel Bay to catch a glimpse of the famous Rockefeller Plantation.

The tour concludes at the dock in the quaint town of Cruz Bay. You will have time for shopping prior to boarding your tour boat for the return journey to St Thomas and your ship.

Notes:

Maximum age is 75 years. Maximum weight is 275 lbs. Tour requires walking 300 yards (each way) to reach the ferry.

 
4:00 p.m. Depart: St Thomas  
  Lodge: Holland America Koningsdam  

 

Day 8 Thursday January 1st- NEW YEARS  
  Do: Day at Sea  
  Lodge: Holland America Koningsdam  

 

Day 9 Friday January 2nd  
8:00 a.m. Arrive: Half Moon Cay, Bahamas  
10:00 a.m.
Sherry & Ray:
  Calypso Island Tram $29.95 (.75 hrs)

All aboard for a behind-the-scenes peek at the highlights of Half Moon Cay from the comfort of a shaded, open-air tram. Accompanied by a professional guide, this excursion is designed to acquaint you with the many and varied visitor areas, activities, and amenities the island offers.

Head out along the coastline from the marina to Cannon Point for an overview of the beach activities and beautiful views of the bay and your ship.

See the island's inter-denominational chapel and do a circuit of the Dining Pavilion roundabout.

Check out Pegasus Ranch and the 'airport' where seaplanes take off and land. The same 700-acre lagoon is also used for jet-skiing, glass-bottom boating and kayaking.

A brief stop at the stingray center provides a different perspective of the lagoon and the chance to see stingrays in their natural habitat.

The industrial area, including the recycling and power plants, serves many very important purposes.

Conclude your tour at Lustre, the pearl kiosk, where you may wish to browse for a memento of your visit.

Notes:

Minimum age is 3 years. Shade is limited; to avoid sunburn, wear light, long clothing suitable for use as a cover-up. Bring a hat and sunglasses; wear biodegradable sunscreen. Bring bottled water.

Prices of Shore Excursions that take place in The Bahamas are inclusive of a 10% Bahamas value-added tax (VAT).


 
2:00 p.m. Depart: Half Moon Cay  
  Lodge:    

 

Day 10 Saturday January 3rd  
7:00 a.m. Arrive: Fort Lauderdale  
8:00 a.m. Depart: Fort Lauderdale  
  Do: Drive the Keys  
  Arrive: Key West 187
  Do:    
  Lodge:    


Day 11 Sunday January 4th  
  See: Keys West  
    Truman House $22.95
  • Guided tour of Florida’s only presidential museum
  • Knowledgeable guides share fascinating stories of Harry S. Truman’s time here
  • Visit where Eisenhower recuperated from his heart attack in 1956
  • Thomas Edison resided here during World War I
 
    Hemingway House (9-5)
House of Ernest Hemingway, writer, during the 1930's.
 
    Key West Lighthouse $11.50 (62+)
Join us for a tour of this incredible landmark where you will climb 88 steps to the top of the tower, see views up to 15 miles out to sea, from the highest viewpoint on the island. Explore the Keeper's Quarters Museum to learn about the life of a lighthouse keeper on the island.

 

 

  Lodge:    

 

Day 12 Monday January 5th  
7:30 a.m. Depart: Key West  
  Do: Ferry  
  Arrive: Dry Tortuga National Park $235
Cruise in spacious comfort to Fort Jefferson in the Dry Tortugas National Park aboard the Yankee Freedom, a high-speed ocean-going catamaran specifically designed for carrying passengers safely across the 70 miles of open water from Key West to the Park. The Yankee Freedom is 110’ long and 30.6’ wide, a broad and stable vessel certified to carry 250 passengers; however, to maximize the comfort of each guest, we limit each tour at 175 passengers. Our veteran captain and friendly crew will take you on a day trip to one of the most unique and spectacular national parks in the United States: The Dry Tortugas National Park and Fort Jefferson. Almost 70 miles west of Key West, nestled among coral reefs, and white sandy beaches, lie seven remote islands called the Dry Tortugas. Unforgettable adventures await you on this most memorable Key West tour. En route to Dry Tortugas National Park our onboard naturalist will give you an orientation about the area and the national park’s surroundings. During your voyage, you will enjoy the beautiful scenery of the Marquesa Islands, Boca Grande, have an opportunity to see turtles and dolphins, and listen to pirate legends. You can travel inside the upper or lower air-conditioned cabins or outside on one of our observation decks. The bow, or front, deck is tiered so you can get a full vista photo rather than the back of some stranger’s head! The Yankee Freedom features comfortable padded sling seats that allow room for movement and easy access to the tables. There are four heads (bathrooms) and three fresh water rinses (with warm water!) that allow you to desalinize and change into dry clothing for the return to Key West. Bars on both decks stock a full compliment of beverages and the galley is open all day for extra snacks, souvenirs and essentials. The bars and the galley are both limited to cash or credit card sales. Rest assured, our award-winning crew will be there to make your adventure fun, comfortable and safe.
  • Breakfast Snack and Box Lunch. View Menu
  • Complimentary snorkeling equipment
  • No hidden fees – ticket includes entrance fee to Dry Tortugas National Park and Fort Jefferson
  • Fully narrated 45 minute tour of the fort.
  • Beach walking, snorkel, swim, or just relax in the sun
  • Enjoy a picnic in the afternoon
 
3:00 p.m. Depart: Dry Tortuga NP  
  Arrive: Key West  
  Lodge:    

 

 

Day 13 Tuesday January 6th  
9:00 a.m. Depart: Key West  
       
12:45 p.m. Arrive: Everglades National Park 172
  See: Guy Bradley Visitor Center (8-5)  
    Backcountry Boat Tours $48 (90 minutes
Venture up the Buttonwood Canal through Coot Bay and Tarpon Creek into the Whitewater Bay as your naturalist highlights unique plant and animal life found here and outline the rich history of Flamingo Everglades National Park.
 
    Forida Bay Boat Tour $48 (90 minutes)
A naturalist will highlight the birds and sea life of the area while providing a history of Flamingo and its surrounding keys. Bald Eagle II, the Florida Bay tour vessel, is a single deck catamaran that provides incredible views to guests. While no two tours are alike and scenery changes from day to day, possibilities on this trip include osprey, wading birds, manatees, sea turtles, dolphins, and, at certain times of the year, a gorgeous sunset.
 
45 min See: Edward F Coe Visitor Center (8-5) 37.6
    (Continue east on Hwy 9336. Go right on Palm Dr. Go left on Hwy 1/Florida Turnpike. Turn left on SW 30th. Go right on 42nd and right again on 26th Terrace. Follow to the end.)  
1 hr
20 min
Arrive: Fort Lauderdale Airport 75.3
  Lodge:    

 

Day 14 Wednesday January 7th  
6:30 a.m. Depart: Fort Lauderdale  
  Do: Flight 1215  
8:30 a.m. Arrive: Atlanta  
9:44 a.m. Depart: Atlanta  
  Do: Flight 787  
11:41 a.m. Arrive: Spokane