Preparing for a holiday cruise through the Caribbean aboard Oceania Riviera

This week we “un-decorated” our house and starting packing our bags. That’s because on Christmas Day we expect to be cruising the Atlantic Ocean aboard Oceania Riviera, headed for Antigua.

We excited about going. First, because it’s our inaugural holiday cruise, spanning both Christmas and New Years. Second, it’s our first time on Oceania, and we are looking forward to seeing how it compares to Azamara. Both are smaller ships catering to an upscale audience.

Oceania Riviera

Our trip is “Sunny Celebrations,” a 13-day, Miami-to-Miami voyage that includes stops at seven Caribbean destinations: Nassau, St. John’s (Antigua), Fort-De-France (Martinique), Bridgetown (Barbados), St. George’s (Grenada), Castries (St. Lucia) and Philipsburg (St. Maarten). There are a few places on the list  where we haven’t cruised before, so we’re looking forward to checking those out.

Internet gods willing, look for daily or near-daily dispatches from sea. We’re happy to have you along as our virtual shipmates.

One activity we have arranged in advance is an evening at La Reserve. It’s a wine pairing and seven-course gourmet dinner arranged by the Executive Chef in association with Wine Spectator. Think I’ll have a light lunch on that day.

I better get back to the packing. Next stop, the Port of Miami. Type to you later, and happy holidays!

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