The adventure awaits
Dreaming of a holiday full of exploration and active relaxation? Do you want to shorten the winter in the warmth, but you don't want to just roll around in a hotel resort? Are you curious and like to discover beautiful beaches, big cities and good food? If you answered YES, this itinerary is for YOU!
Who is this trip suitable for?
Travelers in pairs or groups of up to 6 people
Families with children
Lovers of beautiful beaches and crystal clear sea, animals and adventure.
What does the itinerary include?
1) Travel by car in and around Miami
During your trip you will visit:
Miami
Key Largo
Everglades
2) Cruise on a full-board luxury cruise ship in the Caribbean with Carnival for 6 nights
During your cruise you will visit:
Ocho Rios, Jamaica
Grand Cayman, Cayman Islands
Cozumel, Mexico
For more tips, be sure to follow us on our instagram plavbysnucz. We'd also love it if you shared photos and experiences from your trip!
If you arrive in Miami during the day, you'll have a beautiful view of the Florida coastline and Miami Beach from the plane. You may then see planes landing in parallel, as there are two runways side by side in Miami.
On entering the airport area, turn on your US data SIM card or connect to the free wifi.
At customs, be prepared for questions like these:
What is the purpose of your trip, how many days will you spend in the U.S., what places will you visit, where are you working and what are you doing, how much cash are you taking with you.
Then pick up the car as instructed.
Your accommodation is located directly on Hollywood Beach, just north of Miami Beach. Unlike South Beach, this location is quieter and therefore particularly suitable for families or travellers looking for peace and quiet. The apartment has 2 bedrooms
(one with 2 double beds, the other with 1 double bed), 2 bathrooms with toilet, kitchen, living room and balcony with amazing ocean views. The apartment has a private beach, swimming pool, gym, games room and parking. These services are not included and are paid separately at the front desk of the building - $15 per adult, regardless of length of stay for use of services, $10 for parking per day.
You will probably wake up early in the morning due to the time shift. Take advantage of this and head to Hollywood Beach near your accommodation for a breathtaking sunrise. Before you hit the road to the Hollywood Beach Broadwalk, do some grocery shopping at the nearest Walmart Supercenter.
The promenade was made for a walk to compare the time shift. There are plenty of refreshment options along the promenade and you can even surf on the artificial wave.
Sports matches are inherent to America. If you are travelling during the winter season, we recommend attending a game of the 2023/2024 Stanley Cup champion Florida Panthers hockey team. Tickets can be purchased on the TicketMaster website. The average ticket price is around $50 and we recommend purchasing your tickets in advance. Free parking is available at Sawgrass Mills Shopping Center.
If you are in Miami during the off-hockey season, you can also watch a Miami FC soccer game featuring Lionel Messi, a Miami Heat basketball game, or an American football game at Miami Dolphins Stadium.
The best cure for motion sickness is undoubtedly Miami Beach! Start your third day at the beach and then move on to Miami's iconic spots - Wynwood walls and Calle Ocho.
After the morning rush hour, head to South Beach to fish for bronze. Park a few blocks directly off the famous Ocean Dr, which is lined with Art Deco style homes. Parking is based on $3 per hour and you pay at a parking meter. Grab lunch at the classic American restaurant Big Pink or admire the toned bodies of local musclemen in the shade of a palm tree in Lummus Park.
Wynwood is a street art district that is most famous for the graffiti in the Wynwood Walls Museum's outdoor exhibit. For parking, use the public lot a few blocks from the Wynwood walls. Pay for parking by scanning the QR code located in the parking area. Tickets for Wynwood walls can be purchased at the ticket machine right at the entrance to the exhibit. No advance reservations are required. A visit to the exhibition without an organised tour will take approximately 1 hour
.In the afternoon, take a stroll in Cuba's Little Havana district. Park for free at a McDonalds restaurant and stroll Calle Ocho from the Tower Theater to Cuban Memorial Boulevard Park, with its memorial to the fallen soldiers of the Bay of Pigs invasion.
8th Street, or Calle Ocho, resembles the Walk of Fame in Holywood. Here, however, the stars on the sidewalk are exclusively Latino celebrities. Along the way, you can peek into traditional Cuban food shops, cigar factories, and even the tables of the famous Domino Park, where Cuban grandfathers play their much-loved game of dominoes. Afterwards, cool off with a traditional Cuban ice cream at Azucar Ice Cream, just across the street from the Tower Theater.
You will spend the whole fourth day on the road. Your first stop will be Key Largo and then you will move to the border of Everglades National Park. So be prepared to take food and drink with you.
Meet dolphins at the Dolphin Plus Marine Mammal Responder in Key Largo, a rescue and research station exploring dolphin life. This is a truly unique experience where keepers will first introduce you to dolphin life and behavior both in the wild and in captivity. If you want to get up close and personal with the dolphins, book one of the dolphin encounter packages in advance, either in the water or on the water platform where keepers will allow you to interact directly with these amazing mammals.
Buy a takeaway or dine in at John Pennekamp Camp Area, a recreational park lined with mangroves. Check out the local underwater life at the Visitor Centre or take a refreshing dip in the sea at Cannon Beach. Park admission is approximately $10 per car and 4 visitors.
On your return from Key Largo, stop by Everglades Alligator Farm where your kids will have the unforgettable experience of holding a baby alligator at one of two shows. In addition to alligators, the farm offers several other species of animals to see, such as parrots, turtles, snakes, etc. If you've experienced a little adrenaline rush, you can also take a ride around the local wetlands in an airboat - a watercraft powered by a giant motorized fan. Advance reservations are not required.
After this day trip, head back to Miami to begin preparing for tomorrow's embarkation. If you want to save money on paid drinks on board the ship, stop by Walmart on your way back to Miami. A maximum of 1 original packaged bottle of wine (750 ml) per person over 21 years of age is allowed on board Carnival ships. In addition, a maximum of 12 12 oz (354 ml) bottles or cans of soft drinks per person may be taken. All of these should then be carried as part of your hand luggage.
Pack your luggage so that you have the essentials for your first few hours on the ship, including a swimsuit, in your carry-on or backpack. Checked luggage will be checked and will not be available for several hours after boarding.
On day five, your journey through Miami ends and your cruise ship adventure begins. But first, return your car at the airport and then take a taxi to the port.
On arrival at the terminal, attach tags to large bags and hand them over to the porters free of charge. Keep your hand luggage with you.
Enter the terminal lobby, where you will go through the check-in process. Prepare for security screening and document check - passports, ESTA and online check-in confirmation.
Each person in the cabin will receive a card that serves as your room card, your ID card upon embarkation and disembarkation, but also as a payment card on board as it is linked to the credit card from your reservation. Only this card is used to pay on board.
After embarkation, you will receive in-app evacuation training, which will conclude with a visit to the muster station - the assembly point where you will move to in the event of an evacuation. Follow the instructions in your app or on the radio.
Your stateroom will not be immediately available after embarkation as cleanup is still underway. Cabins are usually not available until after 2pm. Have lunch in the buffet restaurant or start your tour of the ship. Towels are available for loan at the pool.
Once your cabin is available, your checked luggage will probably not yet be available. These will be delivered to you in the hallway outside your room during the afternoon.
You will meet your maid who will clean your cabin regularly during your stay. Agree with him/her what time of the day you would like to be cleaned. If you have a cabin for 4 people, the sofa will be laid out for you or the beds, which are built into the ceiling, will be opened by the maid. Once your suitcases arrive, unpack and store them under the bed.
The ship leaves port at 4pm so be sure to head up to the upper deck to properly enjoy the departure.
The first day at sea will be full of exploring the nooks and crannies of the cruise ship. One of the advantages of cruises is the quality and wide choice of dining options. The cruise includes full board in restaurants marked as complimentary, while paid restaurants are marked with a $ symbol. A schedule of all restaurants and a map of each deck can be found directly in the app.
1) Dining
Breakfast - buffet, a la carte in the main restaurant or premium restaurants ($)
Lunch - buffet, bistro (pizza, sandwiches, burgers, tacos) or at premium restaurants, e.g. sushi ($)
Dinner - buffet, a la carte in the main restaurant or at premium restaurants, e.g. steak house ($)
Drinks - cold drinks - water, lemonade or iced tea and hot drinks - coffee and tea are included. Carbonated soft drinks or alcoholic beverages can be purchased separately ($) or as a drink package ($).
Desserts - included with lunches and dinners, with ice cream on tap at any time of the day. Premium ice cream for a fee ($)
The main a la carte restaurant also hosts "attire nights", when only formal attire is allowed.
A tip of around 18% will always be added to your additional meals.
2) Sports - slides, SkyRide, rope park, running track, fitness centre, basketball court, mini golf, table tennis
3) Culture - stand-up comedy, dance lessons
4) Music and live performances - musicals, piano man
5) Relaxation - pools, hot tubs, spa, massage ($), beauty treatments ($)
6) Shopping - jewelry, alcohol, fashion, souvenirs and more ($)
7) Kids - water playground, arcade ($), play area, NASA corner
8) Evening entertainment - karaoke, casino ($), bingo ($), IMAX ($)
9) Internet - only as part of a paid package for the entire stay ($). However, you can often catch free wifi at the ports or buy a drink at the bar and they will gladly give you the wifi password.
10) Other activities - contests, tournaments, library, etc.
There are not many cruise ship ports that have a beautiful beach right next to the pier. One of them, however, is the Jamaican port of Ocho Rios, located in the north of the island.
Arrival 9:00
Departure: 17:00
If you like adventure, we recommend purchasing one of the trips directly from the cruise company. The most notable attraction in the area is a trip to Dunn's River Falls, where you'll climb a stone staircase to the top of the waterfall. If you don't fancy climbing the waterfall, you can choose from a wide range of other excursions around the area or you can just relax on the beautiful Ocho Rios Bay Beach next to the marina.
During this trip, you'll climb a natural stone staircase up the river to the world-famous Dunn's River Falls, where water flows from nearly 90 metres. As you climb, you'll be able to refresh yourself in the small lagoons. You can then observe the surroundings from the viewing platform adjacent to the falls.
Caution: the hike may be challenging for people with limited mobility. The trip is also accessible for children 6 years and older. Water shoes are required.
Swimwear and a beach towel in your backpack are also recommended, including a resealable bag for your cell phone and documents.
Once you've climbed the falls, your next stop will be Reggae Hill. Reggae Hill offers seating in an area full of colorful tropical plants and flowers. Here you can cool off in the crystal clear spring water, purchase a delicious Jamaican lunch from a menu that includes chicken, grilled fish, lobster and other local specialties, or just listen to the reggae beat as local dancers perform.
In total, you'll spend 4.5 hours on the trip. Directions can be found on the app, and tickets for the trip will be delivered to your cabin.
If you're not interested in climbing the river, you can spend a day on the beautiful beach at Ocho Rios Bay, known as Turtle Beach, which offers fine white sand with turquoise blue water. The beach is located between the Moon Palace Jamaica resort and the marina and is about a 5-minute walk from the boat terminal. There is an entrance fee - $3 per adult, $1 per child. Shade can be found right under the palm trees or trees, so a beach towel will suffice.
The second stop on your cruise will be the Cayman Islands, specifically Grand Cayman.
The main adventure on Grand Cayman is undoubtedly snorkeling with stingrays in Stingray City. If encountering stingrays doesn't tempt you, we recommend heading to Seven Mile Beach for a quiet day by the sea.
Arrival: 8:00
Departures: 16:00
The Cayman Islands, which we know primarily in association with the tax haven, is an amalgamation of 3 main islands - Grand Cayman, Little Cayman and Cayman Brac. It is an independent state but a dependent territory of the United Kingdom, known as the Commonwealth. The cruise ship stops in the capital itself - George Town. The name Cayman originated from Francis Drake's mistaken assumption that Caymanians lived on the island. However, the truth is that the island was, and still is, heavily populated by iguanas. The island is very flat - the highest point on the island is only 18 metres above sea level.
A major tourist attraction on Grand Cayman is the encounter with stingrays. During this encounter, you will learn about their lives, see them feeding, and be able to touch these prehistoric animals.
You can either take this trip on your own through the port's tour provider or you can purchase the trip directly through the cruise company.
If you're not keen on encountering stingrays, you won't go wrong by taking a taxi to the famous Seven mile Beach, one of the most beautiful beaches on the island.
After an encounter with stingrays or a day at the beach, the capital George Town itself is worth a look, with its colonial-style pictorial houses. A short walk from the harbour is the beautiful Elmslie Memorial United Church, which is not only stunningly photogenic from the outside but also from the inside. Caribbean rum is also famous, and is made right here on the island.
Your last stop during the cruise will be the Mexican island of Cozumel. Cozumel is geographically located just across the street from the famous Playa del Carmen.
Arrival: 10:30
Departures: 18:30
The main landmark of this island is the crystal clear sea and nice beaches. One drawback may be that the most beautiful sandy beaches are to be found at the beach clubs - small resorts that abound with everything from beach chairs, pools and water rides to bars and restaurants. However, there is a charge to enter these beach clubs. Most beach clubs offer either a fee to enter the resort or an all-inclusive program, where you get unlimited food and drink included in the price of admission.
The most famous beach club on the island is Paradise Beach (see below), where admission alone costs $15, but on exposed days like spring break, they'll probably only let you in if you buy the All Inclusive package ($68 per adult, $41 per child under 11). A taxi ride from the port takes about 10 minutes and will set you back $18 for a full taxi ride one way.
Another option for a day at the beach is Playa Palancar, where admission is $20 per person. The price will include an umbrella, sun loungers and bathroom facilities. The taxi ride from the port will then take 15 minutes and will cost you $25 for a taxi one way.
The most affordable beach is one of the few sandy beaches on the island that is free, Playa San Francisco. This is located next to another famous beach club, Playa Mia. You won't have any sunbeds, bars or bathroom facilities here, but the sea and sand are stunning. The taxi ride will cost you the same as going to Paradise beach.
As we write above, Paradise Beach is one of the most luxurious beach clubs in Cozumel. As part of your admission, you get sunbeds, an umbrella, a pool, bathrooms, hammocks and wifi. In the case of the All Inclusive package, extra food and drinks throughout the day. There is also a water park with inflatable attractions in the shallows. However, entry is subject to the purchase of a $14 Fun Pass.
On your last day on the ship, make the most of it and try out the full range of activities the ship has to offer. Follow the daily schedule in the app to see what's happening on the ship.
If you haven't paid your gratuity in advance, have it cancelled from your account at customer service, with the understanding that you will pay in cash and ask for envelopes.
Next, confirm on the app if you would like to use a porter to take your luggage when you disembark or if you would like to take your luggage yourself. If you would like to use the porter service, please enter your preferred disembarkation time in the app, and the valet will then leave luggage tags in your room with your disembarkation group number and the belt number where your luggage will be located in the terminal lobby.
In the afternoon, you will need to pack and prepare your suitcases to leave the ship. If you have chosen the porter service, please leave your packed suitcases in the corridor outside your cabin after 9pm.
Leave a gratuity in the amount of your choice in your stateroom upon check-out the morning before you leave the ship.
Arrival: 8:00
Once your sim card data has been activated, check in online for your return flight.Enjoy your breakfast in peace, taking your hand luggage with you. You will not be returning to your cabin. The disembarkation process will take some time, so take a seat near your assembly point for disembarkation. All information can be found in the app.
After disembarkation you will go through security and document control. You will then collect your checked baggage in the terminal lobby. The number or letter of the belt can be found in the app or on the baggage tag.
Flights back to Europe generally depart later in the afternoon, so you have a full day in Miami ahead of you. Book a taxi and go shopping at the Dolphin mall outlet mall.
Visit Dolphin mall, a renowned outlet mall with over 240 shops and restaurants near the airport. You'll find storage bins next to the toilets next to the Food Court, or store your suitcases with one of the Bounce service providers. You can put the kids in a trolley with a built-in tablet.
Plan to arrive at the airport at least 2.5 hours before departure, as there are often long queues at security. Have a safe journey!
Dreaming of a holiday full of exploration and active relaxation? Do you want to shorten the winter in the warmth, but you don't want to just roll around in a hotel resort? Are you curious and like to discover beautiful beaches, big cities and good food? If you answered YES, this itinerary is for YOU!
Who is this trip suitable for?
Travelers in pairs or groups of up to 6 people
Families with children
Lovers of beautiful beaches and crystal clear sea, animals and adventure.
What does the itinerary include?
1) Travel by car in and around Miami
During your trip you will visit:
Miami
Key Largo
Everglades
2) Cruise on a full-board luxury cruise ship in the Caribbean with Carnival for 6 nights
During your cruise you will visit:
Ocho Rios, Jamaica
Grand Cayman, Cayman Islands
Cozumel, Mexico
For more tips, be sure to follow us on our instagram plavbysnucz. We'd also love it if you shared photos and experiences from your trip!
If you arrive in Miami during the day, you'll have a beautiful view of the Florida coastline and Miami Beach from the plane. You may then see planes landing in parallel, as there are two runways side by side in Miami.
On entering the airport area, turn on your US data SIM card or connect to the free wifi.
At customs, be prepared for questions like these:
What is the purpose of your trip, how many days will you spend in the U.S., what places will you visit, where are you working and what are you doing, how much cash are you taking with you.
Then pick up the car as instructed.
Your accommodation is located directly on Hollywood Beach, just north of Miami Beach. Unlike South Beach, this location is quieter and therefore particularly suitable for families or travellers looking for peace and quiet. The apartment has 2 bedrooms
(one with 2 double beds, the other with 1 double bed), 2 bathrooms with toilet, kitchen, living room and balcony with amazing ocean views. The apartment has a private beach, swimming pool, gym, games room and parking. These services are not included and are paid separately at the front desk of the building - $15 per adult, regardless of length of stay for use of services, $10 for parking per day.
You will probably wake up early in the morning due to the time shift. Take advantage of this and head to Hollywood Beach near your accommodation for a breathtaking sunrise. Before you hit the road to the Hollywood Beach Broadwalk, do some grocery shopping at the nearest Walmart Supercenter.
The promenade was made for a walk to compare the time shift. There are plenty of refreshment options along the promenade and you can even surf on the artificial wave.
Sports matches are inherent to America. If you are travelling during the winter season, we recommend attending a game of the 2023/2024 Stanley Cup champion Florida Panthers hockey team. Tickets can be purchased on the TicketMaster website. The average ticket price is around $50 and we recommend purchasing your tickets in advance. Free parking is available at Sawgrass Mills Shopping Center.
If you are in Miami during the off-hockey season, you can also watch a Miami FC soccer game featuring Lionel Messi, a Miami Heat basketball game, or an American football game at Miami Dolphins Stadium.
The best cure for motion sickness is undoubtedly Miami Beach! Start your third day at the beach and then move on to Miami's iconic spots - Wynwood walls and Calle Ocho.
After the morning rush hour, head to South Beach to fish for bronze. Park a few blocks directly off the famous Ocean Dr, which is lined with Art Deco style homes. Parking is based on $3 per hour and you pay at a parking meter. Grab lunch at the classic American restaurant Big Pink or admire the toned bodies of local musclemen in the shade of a palm tree in Lummus Park.
Wynwood is a street art district that is most famous for the graffiti in the Wynwood Walls Museum's outdoor exhibit. For parking, use the public lot a few blocks from the Wynwood walls. Pay for parking by scanning the QR code located in the parking area. Tickets for Wynwood walls can be purchased at the ticket machine right at the entrance to the exhibit. No advance reservations are required. A visit to the exhibition without an organised tour will take approximately 1 hour
.In the afternoon, take a stroll in Cuba's Little Havana district. Park for free at a McDonalds restaurant and stroll Calle Ocho from the Tower Theater to Cuban Memorial Boulevard Park, with its memorial to the fallen soldiers of the Bay of Pigs invasion.
8th Street, or Calle Ocho, resembles the Walk of Fame in Holywood. Here, however, the stars on the sidewalk are exclusively Latino celebrities. Along the way, you can peek into traditional Cuban food shops, cigar factories, and even the tables of the famous Domino Park, where Cuban grandfathers play their much-loved game of dominoes. Afterwards, cool off with a traditional Cuban ice cream at Azucar Ice Cream, just across the street from the Tower Theater.
You will spend the whole fourth day on the road. Your first stop will be Key Largo and then you will move to the border of Everglades National Park. So be prepared to take food and drink with you.
Meet dolphins at the Dolphin Plus Marine Mammal Responder in Key Largo, a rescue and research station exploring dolphin life. This is a truly unique experience where keepers will first introduce you to dolphin life and behavior both in the wild and in captivity. If you want to get up close and personal with the dolphins, book one of the dolphin encounter packages in advance, either in the water or on the water platform where keepers will allow you to interact directly with these amazing mammals.
Buy a takeaway or dine in at John Pennekamp Camp Area, a recreational park lined with mangroves. Check out the local underwater life at the Visitor Centre or take a refreshing dip in the sea at Cannon Beach. Park admission is approximately $10 per car and 4 visitors.
On your return from Key Largo, stop by Everglades Alligator Farm where your kids will have the unforgettable experience of holding a baby alligator at one of two shows. In addition to alligators, the farm offers several other species of animals to see, such as parrots, turtles, snakes, etc. If you've experienced a little adrenaline rush, you can also take a ride around the local wetlands in an airboat - a watercraft powered by a giant motorized fan. Advance reservations are not required.
After this day trip, head back to Miami to begin preparing for tomorrow's embarkation. If you want to save money on paid drinks on board the ship, stop by Walmart on your way back to Miami. A maximum of 1 original packaged bottle of wine (750 ml) per person over 21 years of age is allowed on board Carnival ships. In addition, a maximum of 12 12 oz (354 ml) bottles or cans of soft drinks per person may be taken. All of these should then be carried as part of your hand luggage.
Pack your luggage so that you have the essentials for your first few hours on the ship, including a swimsuit, in your carry-on or backpack. Checked luggage will be checked and will not be available for several hours after boarding.
On day five, your journey through Miami ends and your cruise ship adventure begins. But first, return your car at the airport and then take a taxi to the port.
On arrival at the terminal, attach tags to large bags and hand them over to the porters free of charge. Keep your hand luggage with you.
Enter the terminal lobby, where you will go through the check-in process. Prepare for security screening and document check - passports, ESTA and online check-in confirmation.
Each person in the cabin will receive a card that serves as your room card, your ID card upon embarkation and disembarkation, but also as a payment card on board as it is linked to the credit card from your reservation. Only this card is used to pay on board.
After embarkation, you will receive in-app evacuation training, which will conclude with a visit to the muster station - the assembly point where you will move to in the event of an evacuation. Follow the instructions in your app or on the radio.
Your stateroom will not be immediately available after embarkation as cleanup is still underway. Cabins are usually not available until after 2pm. Have lunch in the buffet restaurant or start your tour of the ship. Towels are available for loan at the pool.
Once your cabin is available, your checked luggage will probably not yet be available. These will be delivered to you in the hallway outside your room during the afternoon.
You will meet your maid who will clean your cabin regularly during your stay. Agree with him/her what time of the day you would like to be cleaned. If you have a cabin for 4 people, the sofa will be laid out for you or the beds, which are built into the ceiling, will be opened by the maid. Once your suitcases arrive, unpack and store them under the bed.
The ship leaves port at 4pm so be sure to head up to the upper deck to properly enjoy the departure.
The first day at sea will be full of exploring the nooks and crannies of the cruise ship. One of the advantages of cruises is the quality and wide choice of dining options. The cruise includes full board in restaurants marked as complimentary, while paid restaurants are marked with a $ symbol. A schedule of all restaurants and a map of each deck can be found directly in the app.
1) Dining
Breakfast - buffet, a la carte in the main restaurant or premium restaurants ($)
Lunch - buffet, bistro (pizza, sandwiches, burgers, tacos) or at premium restaurants, e.g. sushi ($)
Dinner - buffet, a la carte in the main restaurant or at premium restaurants, e.g. steak house ($)
Drinks - cold drinks - water, lemonade or iced tea and hot drinks - coffee and tea are included. Carbonated soft drinks or alcoholic beverages can be purchased separately ($) or as a drink package ($).
Desserts - included with lunches and dinners, with ice cream on tap at any time of the day. Premium ice cream for a fee ($)
The main a la carte restaurant also hosts "attire nights", when only formal attire is allowed.
A tip of around 18% will always be added to your additional meals.
2) Sports - slides, SkyRide, rope park, running track, fitness centre, basketball court, mini golf, table tennis
3) Culture - stand-up comedy, dance lessons
4) Music and live performances - musicals, piano man
5) Relaxation - pools, hot tubs, spa, massage ($), beauty treatments ($)
6) Shopping - jewelry, alcohol, fashion, souvenirs and more ($)
7) Kids - water playground, arcade ($), play area, NASA corner
8) Evening entertainment - karaoke, casino ($), bingo ($), IMAX ($)
9) Internet - only as part of a paid package for the entire stay ($). However, you can often catch free wifi at the ports or buy a drink at the bar and they will gladly give you the wifi password.
10) Other activities - contests, tournaments, library, etc.
There are not many cruise ship ports that have a beautiful beach right next to the pier. One of them, however, is the Jamaican port of Ocho Rios, located in the north of the island.
Arrival 9:00
Departure: 17:00
If you like adventure, we recommend purchasing one of the trips directly from the cruise company. The most notable attraction in the area is a trip to Dunn's River Falls, where you'll climb a stone staircase to the top of the waterfall. If you don't fancy climbing the waterfall, you can choose from a wide range of other excursions around the area or you can just relax on the beautiful Ocho Rios Bay Beach next to the marina.
During this trip, you'll climb a natural stone staircase up the river to the world-famous Dunn's River Falls, where water flows from nearly 90 metres. As you climb, you'll be able to refresh yourself in the small lagoons. You can then observe the surroundings from the viewing platform adjacent to the falls.
Caution: the hike may be challenging for people with limited mobility. The trip is also accessible for children 6 years and older. Water shoes are required.
Swimwear and a beach towel in your backpack are also recommended, including a resealable bag for your cell phone and documents.
Once you've climbed the falls, your next stop will be Reggae Hill. Reggae Hill offers seating in an area full of colorful tropical plants and flowers. Here you can cool off in the crystal clear spring water, purchase a delicious Jamaican lunch from a menu that includes chicken, grilled fish, lobster and other local specialties, or just listen to the reggae beat as local dancers perform.
In total, you'll spend 4.5 hours on the trip. Directions can be found on the app, and tickets for the trip will be delivered to your cabin.
If you're not interested in climbing the river, you can spend a day on the beautiful beach at Ocho Rios Bay, known as Turtle Beach, which offers fine white sand with turquoise blue water. The beach is located between the Moon Palace Jamaica resort and the marina and is about a 5-minute walk from the boat terminal. There is an entrance fee - $3 per adult, $1 per child. Shade can be found right under the palm trees or trees, so a beach towel will suffice.
The second stop on your cruise will be the Cayman Islands, specifically Grand Cayman.
The main adventure on Grand Cayman is undoubtedly snorkeling with stingrays in Stingray City. If encountering stingrays doesn't tempt you, we recommend heading to Seven Mile Beach for a quiet day by the sea.
Arrival: 8:00
Departures: 16:00
The Cayman Islands, which we know primarily in association with the tax haven, is an amalgamation of 3 main islands - Grand Cayman, Little Cayman and Cayman Brac. It is an independent state but a dependent territory of the United Kingdom, known as the Commonwealth. The cruise ship stops in the capital itself - George Town. The name Cayman originated from Francis Drake's mistaken assumption that Caymanians lived on the island. However, the truth is that the island was, and still is, heavily populated by iguanas. The island is very flat - the highest point on the island is only 18 metres above sea level.
A major tourist attraction on Grand Cayman is the encounter with stingrays. During this encounter, you will learn about their lives, see them feeding, and be able to touch these prehistoric animals.
You can either take this trip on your own through the port's tour provider or you can purchase the trip directly through the cruise company.
If you're not keen on encountering stingrays, you won't go wrong by taking a taxi to the famous Seven mile Beach, one of the most beautiful beaches on the island.
After an encounter with stingrays or a day at the beach, the capital George Town itself is worth a look, with its colonial-style pictorial houses. A short walk from the harbour is the beautiful Elmslie Memorial United Church, which is not only stunningly photogenic from the outside but also from the inside. Caribbean rum is also famous, and is made right here on the island.
Your last stop during the cruise will be the Mexican island of Cozumel. Cozumel is geographically located just across the street from the famous Playa del Carmen.
Arrival: 10:30
Departures: 18:30
The main landmark of this island is the crystal clear sea and nice beaches. One drawback may be that the most beautiful sandy beaches are to be found at the beach clubs - small resorts that abound with everything from beach chairs, pools and water rides to bars and restaurants. However, there is a charge to enter these beach clubs. Most beach clubs offer either a fee to enter the resort or an all-inclusive program, where you get unlimited food and drink included in the price of admission.
The most famous beach club on the island is Paradise Beach (see below), where admission alone costs $15, but on exposed days like spring break, they'll probably only let you in if you buy the All Inclusive package ($68 per adult, $41 per child under 11). A taxi ride from the port takes about 10 minutes and will set you back $18 for a full taxi ride one way.
Another option for a day at the beach is Playa Palancar, where admission is $20 per person. The price will include an umbrella, sun loungers and bathroom facilities. The taxi ride from the port will then take 15 minutes and will cost you $25 for a taxi one way.
The most affordable beach is one of the few sandy beaches on the island that is free, Playa San Francisco. This is located next to another famous beach club, Playa Mia. You won't have any sunbeds, bars or bathroom facilities here, but the sea and sand are stunning. The taxi ride will cost you the same as going to Paradise beach.
As we write above, Paradise Beach is one of the most luxurious beach clubs in Cozumel. As part of your admission, you get sunbeds, an umbrella, a pool, bathrooms, hammocks and wifi. In the case of the All Inclusive package, extra food and drinks throughout the day. There is also a water park with inflatable attractions in the shallows. However, entry is subject to the purchase of a $14 Fun Pass.
On your last day on the ship, make the most of it and try out the full range of activities the ship has to offer. Follow the daily schedule in the app to see what's happening on the ship.
If you haven't paid your gratuity in advance, have it cancelled from your account at customer service, with the understanding that you will pay in cash and ask for envelopes.
Next, confirm on the app if you would like to use a porter to take your luggage when you disembark or if you would like to take your luggage yourself. If you would like to use the porter service, please enter your preferred disembarkation time in the app, and the valet will then leave luggage tags in your room with your disembarkation group number and the belt number where your luggage will be located in the terminal lobby.
In the afternoon, you will need to pack and prepare your suitcases to leave the ship. If you have chosen the porter service, please leave your packed suitcases in the corridor outside your cabin after 9pm.
Leave a gratuity in the amount of your choice in your stateroom upon check-out the morning before you leave the ship.
Arrival: 8:00
Once your sim card data has been activated, check in online for your return flight.Enjoy your breakfast in peace, taking your hand luggage with you. You will not be returning to your cabin. The disembarkation process will take some time, so take a seat near your assembly point for disembarkation. All information can be found in the app.
After disembarkation you will go through security and document control. You will then collect your checked baggage in the terminal lobby. The number or letter of the belt can be found in the app or on the baggage tag.
Flights back to Europe generally depart later in the afternoon, so you have a full day in Miami ahead of you. Book a taxi and go shopping at the Dolphin mall outlet mall.
Visit Dolphin mall, a renowned outlet mall with over 240 shops and restaurants near the airport. You'll find storage bins next to the toilets next to the Food Court, or store your suitcases with one of the Bounce service providers. You can put the kids in a trolley with a built-in tablet.
Plan to arrive at the airport at least 2.5 hours before departure, as there are often long queues at security. Have a safe journey!
We are a Czech companyWe are a Czech company
itinerary by Martin Vojtíšek
The adventure awaits
Dreaming of a holiday full of exploration and active relaxation? Do you want to shorten the winter in the warmth, but you don't want to just roll around in a hotel resort? Are you curious and like to discover beautiful beaches, big cities and good food? If you answered YES, this itinerary is for YOU!
Who is this trip suitable for?
Travelers in pairs or groups of up to 6 people
Families with children
Lovers of beautiful beaches and crystal clear sea, animals and adventure.
What does the itinerary include?
1) Travel by car in and around Miami
During your trip you will visit:
Miami
Key Largo
Everglades
2) Cruise on a full-board luxury cruise ship in the Caribbean with Carnival for 6 nights
During your cruise you will visit:
Ocho Rios, Jamaica
Grand Cayman, Cayman Islands
Cozumel, Mexico
For more tips, be sure to follow us on our instagram plavbysnucz. We'd also love it if you shared photos and experiences from your trip!
If you arrive in Miami during the day, you'll have a beautiful view of the Florida coastline and Miami Beach from the plane. You may then see planes landing in parallel, as there are two runways side by side in Miami.
On entering the airport area, turn on your US data SIM card or connect to the free wifi.
At customs, be prepared for questions like these:
What is the purpose of your trip, how many days will you spend in the U.S., what places will you visit, where are you working and what are you doing, how much cash are you taking with you.
Then pick up the car as instructed.
Your accommodation is located directly on Hollywood Beach, just north of Miami Beach. Unlike South Beach, this location is quieter and therefore particularly suitable for families or travellers looking for peace and quiet. The apartment has 2 bedrooms
(one with 2 double beds, the other with 1 double bed), 2 bathrooms with toilet, kitchen, living room and balcony with amazing ocean views. The apartment has a private beach, swimming pool, gym, games room and parking. These services are not included and are paid separately at the front desk of the building - $15 per adult, regardless of length of stay for use of services, $10 for parking per day.
You will probably wake up early in the morning due to the time shift. Take advantage of this and head to Hollywood Beach near your accommodation for a breathtaking sunrise. Before you hit the road to the Hollywood Beach Broadwalk, do some grocery shopping at the nearest Walmart Supercenter.
The promenade was made for a walk to compare the time shift. There are plenty of refreshment options along the promenade and you can even surf on the artificial wave.
Sports matches are inherent to America. If you are travelling during the winter season, we recommend attending a game of the 2023/2024 Stanley Cup champion Florida Panthers hockey team. Tickets can be purchased on the TicketMaster website. The average ticket price is around $50 and we recommend purchasing your tickets in advance. Free parking is available at Sawgrass Mills Shopping Center.
If you are in Miami during the off-hockey season, you can also watch a Miami FC soccer game featuring Lionel Messi, a Miami Heat basketball game, or an American football game at Miami Dolphins Stadium.
The best cure for motion sickness is undoubtedly Miami Beach! Start your third day at the beach and then move on to Miami's iconic spots - Wynwood walls and Calle Ocho.
After the morning rush hour, head to South Beach to fish for bronze. Park a few blocks directly off the famous Ocean Dr, which is lined with Art Deco style homes. Parking is based on $3 per hour and you pay at a parking meter. Grab lunch at the classic American restaurant Big Pink or admire the toned bodies of local musclemen in the shade of a palm tree in Lummus Park.
Wynwood is a street art district that is most famous for the graffiti in the Wynwood Walls Museum's outdoor exhibit. For parking, use the public lot a few blocks from the Wynwood walls. Pay for parking by scanning the QR code located in the parking area. Tickets for Wynwood walls can be purchased at the ticket machine right at the entrance to the exhibit. No advance reservations are required. A visit to the exhibition without an organised tour will take approximately 1 hour
.In the afternoon, take a stroll in Cuba's Little Havana district. Park for free at a McDonalds restaurant and stroll Calle Ocho from the Tower Theater to Cuban Memorial Boulevard Park, with its memorial to the fallen soldiers of the Bay of Pigs invasion.
8th Street, or Calle Ocho, resembles the Walk of Fame in Holywood. Here, however, the stars on the sidewalk are exclusively Latino celebrities. Along the way, you can peek into traditional Cuban food shops, cigar factories, and even the tables of the famous Domino Park, where Cuban grandfathers play their much-loved game of dominoes. Afterwards, cool off with a traditional Cuban ice cream at Azucar Ice Cream, just across the street from the Tower Theater.
You will spend the whole fourth day on the road. Your first stop will be Key Largo and then you will move to the border of Everglades National Park. So be prepared to take food and drink with you.
Meet dolphins at the Dolphin Plus Marine Mammal Responder in Key Largo, a rescue and research station exploring dolphin life. This is a truly unique experience where keepers will first introduce you to dolphin life and behavior both in the wild and in captivity. If you want to get up close and personal with the dolphins, book one of the dolphin encounter packages in advance, either in the water or on the water platform where keepers will allow you to interact directly with these amazing mammals.
Buy a takeaway or dine in at John Pennekamp Camp Area, a recreational park lined with mangroves. Check out the local underwater life at the Visitor Centre or take a refreshing dip in the sea at Cannon Beach. Park admission is approximately $10 per car and 4 visitors.
On your return from Key Largo, stop by Everglades Alligator Farm where your kids will have the unforgettable experience of holding a baby alligator at one of two shows. In addition to alligators, the farm offers several other species of animals to see, such as parrots, turtles, snakes, etc. If you've experienced a little adrenaline rush, you can also take a ride around the local wetlands in an airboat - a watercraft powered by a giant motorized fan. Advance reservations are not required.
After this day trip, head back to Miami to begin preparing for tomorrow's embarkation. If you want to save money on paid drinks on board the ship, stop by Walmart on your way back to Miami. A maximum of 1 original packaged bottle of wine (750 ml) per person over 21 years of age is allowed on board Carnival ships. In addition, a maximum of 12 12 oz (354 ml) bottles or cans of soft drinks per person may be taken. All of these should then be carried as part of your hand luggage.
Pack your luggage so that you have the essentials for your first few hours on the ship, including a swimsuit, in your carry-on or backpack. Checked luggage will be checked and will not be available for several hours after boarding.
On day five, your journey through Miami ends and your cruise ship adventure begins. But first, return your car at the airport and then take a taxi to the port.
On arrival at the terminal, attach tags to large bags and hand them over to the porters free of charge. Keep your hand luggage with you.
Enter the terminal lobby, where you will go through the check-in process. Prepare for security screening and document check - passports, ESTA and online check-in confirmation.
Each person in the cabin will receive a card that serves as your room card, your ID card upon embarkation and disembarkation, but also as a payment card on board as it is linked to the credit card from your reservation. Only this card is used to pay on board.
After embarkation, you will receive in-app evacuation training, which will conclude with a visit to the muster station - the assembly point where you will move to in the event of an evacuation. Follow the instructions in your app or on the radio.
Your stateroom will not be immediately available after embarkation as cleanup is still underway. Cabins are usually not available until after 2pm. Have lunch in the buffet restaurant or start your tour of the ship. Towels are available for loan at the pool.
Once your cabin is available, your checked luggage will probably not yet be available. These will be delivered to you in the hallway outside your room during the afternoon.
You will meet your maid who will clean your cabin regularly during your stay. Agree with him/her what time of the day you would like to be cleaned. If you have a cabin for 4 people, the sofa will be laid out for you or the beds, which are built into the ceiling, will be opened by the maid. Once your suitcases arrive, unpack and store them under the bed.
The ship leaves port at 4pm so be sure to head up to the upper deck to properly enjoy the departure.
The first day at sea will be full of exploring the nooks and crannies of the cruise ship. One of the advantages of cruises is the quality and wide choice of dining options. The cruise includes full board in restaurants marked as complimentary, while paid restaurants are marked with a $ symbol. A schedule of all restaurants and a map of each deck can be found directly in the app.
1) Dining
Breakfast - buffet, a la carte in the main restaurant or premium restaurants ($)
Lunch - buffet, bistro (pizza, sandwiches, burgers, tacos) or at premium restaurants, e.g. sushi ($)
Dinner - buffet, a la carte in the main restaurant or at premium restaurants, e.g. steak house ($)
Drinks - cold drinks - water, lemonade or iced tea and hot drinks - coffee and tea are included. Carbonated soft drinks or alcoholic beverages can be purchased separately ($) or as a drink package ($).
Desserts - included with lunches and dinners, with ice cream on tap at any time of the day. Premium ice cream for a fee ($)
The main a la carte restaurant also hosts "attire nights", when only formal attire is allowed.
A tip of around 18% will always be added to your additional meals.
2) Sports - slides, SkyRide, rope park, running track, fitness centre, basketball court, mini golf, table tennis
3) Culture - stand-up comedy, dance lessons
4) Music and live performances - musicals, piano man
5) Relaxation - pools, hot tubs, spa, massage ($), beauty treatments ($)
6) Shopping - jewelry, alcohol, fashion, souvenirs and more ($)
7) Kids - water playground, arcade ($), play area, NASA corner
8) Evening entertainment - karaoke, casino ($), bingo ($), IMAX ($)
9) Internet - only as part of a paid package for the entire stay ($). However, you can often catch free wifi at the ports or buy a drink at the bar and they will gladly give you the wifi password.
10) Other activities - contests, tournaments, library, etc.
There are not many cruise ship ports that have a beautiful beach right next to the pier. One of them, however, is the Jamaican port of Ocho Rios, located in the north of the island.
Arrival 9:00
Departure: 17:00
If you like adventure, we recommend purchasing one of the trips directly from the cruise company. The most notable attraction in the area is a trip to Dunn's River Falls, where you'll climb a stone staircase to the top of the waterfall. If you don't fancy climbing the waterfall, you can choose from a wide range of other excursions around the area or you can just relax on the beautiful Ocho Rios Bay Beach next to the marina.
During this trip, you'll climb a natural stone staircase up the river to the world-famous Dunn's River Falls, where water flows from nearly 90 metres. As you climb, you'll be able to refresh yourself in the small lagoons. You can then observe the surroundings from the viewing platform adjacent to the falls.
Caution: the hike may be challenging for people with limited mobility. The trip is also accessible for children 6 years and older. Water shoes are required.
Swimwear and a beach towel in your backpack are also recommended, including a resealable bag for your cell phone and documents.
Once you've climbed the falls, your next stop will be Reggae Hill. Reggae Hill offers seating in an area full of colorful tropical plants and flowers. Here you can cool off in the crystal clear spring water, purchase a delicious Jamaican lunch from a menu that includes chicken, grilled fish, lobster and other local specialties, or just listen to the reggae beat as local dancers perform.
In total, you'll spend 4.5 hours on the trip. Directions can be found on the app, and tickets for the trip will be delivered to your cabin.
If you're not interested in climbing the river, you can spend a day on the beautiful beach at Ocho Rios Bay, known as Turtle Beach, which offers fine white sand with turquoise blue water. The beach is located between the Moon Palace Jamaica resort and the marina and is about a 5-minute walk from the boat terminal. There is an entrance fee - $3 per adult, $1 per child. Shade can be found right under the palm trees or trees, so a beach towel will suffice.
The second stop on your cruise will be the Cayman Islands, specifically Grand Cayman.
The main adventure on Grand Cayman is undoubtedly snorkeling with stingrays in Stingray City. If encountering stingrays doesn't tempt you, we recommend heading to Seven Mile Beach for a quiet day by the sea.
Arrival: 8:00
Departures: 16:00
The Cayman Islands, which we know primarily in association with the tax haven, is an amalgamation of 3 main islands - Grand Cayman, Little Cayman and Cayman Brac. It is an independent state but a dependent territory of the United Kingdom, known as the Commonwealth. The cruise ship stops in the capital itself - George Town. The name Cayman originated from Francis Drake's mistaken assumption that Caymanians lived on the island. However, the truth is that the island was, and still is, heavily populated by iguanas. The island is very flat - the highest point on the island is only 18 metres above sea level.
A major tourist attraction on Grand Cayman is the encounter with stingrays. During this encounter, you will learn about their lives, see them feeding, and be able to touch these prehistoric animals.
You can either take this trip on your own through the port's tour provider or you can purchase the trip directly through the cruise company.
If you're not keen on encountering stingrays, you won't go wrong by taking a taxi to the famous Seven mile Beach, one of the most beautiful beaches on the island.
After an encounter with stingrays or a day at the beach, the capital George Town itself is worth a look, with its colonial-style pictorial houses. A short walk from the harbour is the beautiful Elmslie Memorial United Church, which is not only stunningly photogenic from the outside but also from the inside. Caribbean rum is also famous, and is made right here on the island.
Your last stop during the cruise will be the Mexican island of Cozumel. Cozumel is geographically located just across the street from the famous Playa del Carmen.
Arrival: 10:30
Departures: 18:30
The main landmark of this island is the crystal clear sea and nice beaches. One drawback may be that the most beautiful sandy beaches are to be found at the beach clubs - small resorts that abound with everything from beach chairs, pools and water rides to bars and restaurants. However, there is a charge to enter these beach clubs. Most beach clubs offer either a fee to enter the resort or an all-inclusive program, where you get unlimited food and drink included in the price of admission.
The most famous beach club on the island is Paradise Beach (see below), where admission alone costs $15, but on exposed days like spring break, they'll probably only let you in if you buy the All Inclusive package ($68 per adult, $41 per child under 11). A taxi ride from the port takes about 10 minutes and will set you back $18 for a full taxi ride one way.
Another option for a day at the beach is Playa Palancar, where admission is $20 per person. The price will include an umbrella, sun loungers and bathroom facilities. The taxi ride from the port will then take 15 minutes and will cost you $25 for a taxi one way.
The most affordable beach is one of the few sandy beaches on the island that is free, Playa San Francisco. This is located next to another famous beach club, Playa Mia. You won't have any sunbeds, bars or bathroom facilities here, but the sea and sand are stunning. The taxi ride will cost you the same as going to Paradise beach.
As we write above, Paradise Beach is one of the most luxurious beach clubs in Cozumel. As part of your admission, you get sunbeds, an umbrella, a pool, bathrooms, hammocks and wifi. In the case of the All Inclusive package, extra food and drinks throughout the day. There is also a water park with inflatable attractions in the shallows. However, entry is subject to the purchase of a $14 Fun Pass.
On your last day on the ship, make the most of it and try out the full range of activities the ship has to offer. Follow the daily schedule in the app to see what's happening on the ship.
If you haven't paid your gratuity in advance, have it cancelled from your account at customer service, with the understanding that you will pay in cash and ask for envelopes.
Next, confirm on the app if you would like to use a porter to take your luggage when you disembark or if you would like to take your luggage yourself. If you would like to use the porter service, please enter your preferred disembarkation time in the app, and the valet will then leave luggage tags in your room with your disembarkation group number and the belt number where your luggage will be located in the terminal lobby.
In the afternoon, you will need to pack and prepare your suitcases to leave the ship. If you have chosen the porter service, please leave your packed suitcases in the corridor outside your cabin after 9pm.
Leave a gratuity in the amount of your choice in your stateroom upon check-out the morning before you leave the ship.
Arrival: 8:00
Once your sim card data has been activated, check in online for your return flight.Enjoy your breakfast in peace, taking your hand luggage with you. You will not be returning to your cabin. The disembarkation process will take some time, so take a seat near your assembly point for disembarkation. All information can be found in the app.
After disembarkation you will go through security and document control. You will then collect your checked baggage in the terminal lobby. The number or letter of the belt can be found in the app or on the baggage tag.
Flights back to Europe generally depart later in the afternoon, so you have a full day in Miami ahead of you. Book a taxi and go shopping at the Dolphin mall outlet mall.
Visit Dolphin mall, a renowned outlet mall with over 240 shops and restaurants near the airport. You'll find storage bins next to the toilets next to the Food Court, or store your suitcases with one of the Bounce service providers. You can put the kids in a trolley with a built-in tablet.
Plan to arrive at the airport at least 2.5 hours before departure, as there are often long queues at security. Have a safe journey!
Dreaming of a holiday full of exploration and active relaxation? Do you want to shorten the winter in the warmth, but you don't want to just roll around in a hotel resort? Are you curious and like to discover beautiful beaches, big cities and good food? If you answered YES, this itinerary is for YOU!
Who is this trip suitable for?
Travelers in pairs or groups of up to 6 people
Families with children
Lovers of beautiful beaches and crystal clear sea, animals and adventure.
What does the itinerary include?
1) Travel by car in and around Miami
During your trip you will visit:
Miami
Key Largo
Everglades
2) Cruise on a full-board luxury cruise ship in the Caribbean with Carnival for 6 nights
During your cruise you will visit:
Ocho Rios, Jamaica
Grand Cayman, Cayman Islands
Cozumel, Mexico
For more tips, be sure to follow us on our instagram plavbysnucz. We'd also love it if you shared photos and experiences from your trip!
If you arrive in Miami during the day, you'll have a beautiful view of the Florida coastline and Miami Beach from the plane. You may then see planes landing in parallel, as there are two runways side by side in Miami.
On entering the airport area, turn on your US data SIM card or connect to the free wifi.
At customs, be prepared for questions like these:
What is the purpose of your trip, how many days will you spend in the U.S., what places will you visit, where are you working and what are you doing, how much cash are you taking with you.
Then pick up the car as instructed.
Your accommodation is located directly on Hollywood Beach, just north of Miami Beach. Unlike South Beach, this location is quieter and therefore particularly suitable for families or travellers looking for peace and quiet. The apartment has 2 bedrooms
(one with 2 double beds, the other with 1 double bed), 2 bathrooms with toilet, kitchen, living room and balcony with amazing ocean views. The apartment has a private beach, swimming pool, gym, games room and parking. These services are not included and are paid separately at the front desk of the building - $15 per adult, regardless of length of stay for use of services, $10 for parking per day.
You will probably wake up early in the morning due to the time shift. Take advantage of this and head to Hollywood Beach near your accommodation for a breathtaking sunrise. Before you hit the road to the Hollywood Beach Broadwalk, do some grocery shopping at the nearest Walmart Supercenter.
The promenade was made for a walk to compare the time shift. There are plenty of refreshment options along the promenade and you can even surf on the artificial wave.
Sports matches are inherent to America. If you are travelling during the winter season, we recommend attending a game of the 2023/2024 Stanley Cup champion Florida Panthers hockey team. Tickets can be purchased on the TicketMaster website. The average ticket price is around $50 and we recommend purchasing your tickets in advance. Free parking is available at Sawgrass Mills Shopping Center.
If you are in Miami during the off-hockey season, you can also watch a Miami FC soccer game featuring Lionel Messi, a Miami Heat basketball game, or an American football game at Miami Dolphins Stadium.
The best cure for motion sickness is undoubtedly Miami Beach! Start your third day at the beach and then move on to Miami's iconic spots - Wynwood walls and Calle Ocho.
After the morning rush hour, head to South Beach to fish for bronze. Park a few blocks directly off the famous Ocean Dr, which is lined with Art Deco style homes. Parking is based on $3 per hour and you pay at a parking meter. Grab lunch at the classic American restaurant Big Pink or admire the toned bodies of local musclemen in the shade of a palm tree in Lummus Park.
Wynwood is a street art district that is most famous for the graffiti in the Wynwood Walls Museum's outdoor exhibit. For parking, use the public lot a few blocks from the Wynwood walls. Pay for parking by scanning the QR code located in the parking area. Tickets for Wynwood walls can be purchased at the ticket machine right at the entrance to the exhibit. No advance reservations are required. A visit to the exhibition without an organised tour will take approximately 1 hour
.In the afternoon, take a stroll in Cuba's Little Havana district. Park for free at a McDonalds restaurant and stroll Calle Ocho from the Tower Theater to Cuban Memorial Boulevard Park, with its memorial to the fallen soldiers of the Bay of Pigs invasion.
8th Street, or Calle Ocho, resembles the Walk of Fame in Holywood. Here, however, the stars on the sidewalk are exclusively Latino celebrities. Along the way, you can peek into traditional Cuban food shops, cigar factories, and even the tables of the famous Domino Park, where Cuban grandfathers play their much-loved game of dominoes. Afterwards, cool off with a traditional Cuban ice cream at Azucar Ice Cream, just across the street from the Tower Theater.
You will spend the whole fourth day on the road. Your first stop will be Key Largo and then you will move to the border of Everglades National Park. So be prepared to take food and drink with you.
Meet dolphins at the Dolphin Plus Marine Mammal Responder in Key Largo, a rescue and research station exploring dolphin life. This is a truly unique experience where keepers will first introduce you to dolphin life and behavior both in the wild and in captivity. If you want to get up close and personal with the dolphins, book one of the dolphin encounter packages in advance, either in the water or on the water platform where keepers will allow you to interact directly with these amazing mammals.
Buy a takeaway or dine in at John Pennekamp Camp Area, a recreational park lined with mangroves. Check out the local underwater life at the Visitor Centre or take a refreshing dip in the sea at Cannon Beach. Park admission is approximately $10 per car and 4 visitors.
On your return from Key Largo, stop by Everglades Alligator Farm where your kids will have the unforgettable experience of holding a baby alligator at one of two shows. In addition to alligators, the farm offers several other species of animals to see, such as parrots, turtles, snakes, etc. If you've experienced a little adrenaline rush, you can also take a ride around the local wetlands in an airboat - a watercraft powered by a giant motorized fan. Advance reservations are not required.
After this day trip, head back to Miami to begin preparing for tomorrow's embarkation. If you want to save money on paid drinks on board the ship, stop by Walmart on your way back to Miami. A maximum of 1 original packaged bottle of wine (750 ml) per person over 21 years of age is allowed on board Carnival ships. In addition, a maximum of 12 12 oz (354 ml) bottles or cans of soft drinks per person may be taken. All of these should then be carried as part of your hand luggage.
Pack your luggage so that you have the essentials for your first few hours on the ship, including a swimsuit, in your carry-on or backpack. Checked luggage will be checked and will not be available for several hours after boarding.
On day five, your journey through Miami ends and your cruise ship adventure begins. But first, return your car at the airport and then take a taxi to the port.
On arrival at the terminal, attach tags to large bags and hand them over to the porters free of charge. Keep your hand luggage with you.
Enter the terminal lobby, where you will go through the check-in process. Prepare for security screening and document check - passports, ESTA and online check-in confirmation.
Each person in the cabin will receive a card that serves as your room card, your ID card upon embarkation and disembarkation, but also as a payment card on board as it is linked to the credit card from your reservation. Only this card is used to pay on board.
After embarkation, you will receive in-app evacuation training, which will conclude with a visit to the muster station - the assembly point where you will move to in the event of an evacuation. Follow the instructions in your app or on the radio.
Your stateroom will not be immediately available after embarkation as cleanup is still underway. Cabins are usually not available until after 2pm. Have lunch in the buffet restaurant or start your tour of the ship. Towels are available for loan at the pool.
Once your cabin is available, your checked luggage will probably not yet be available. These will be delivered to you in the hallway outside your room during the afternoon.
You will meet your maid who will clean your cabin regularly during your stay. Agree with him/her what time of the day you would like to be cleaned. If you have a cabin for 4 people, the sofa will be laid out for you or the beds, which are built into the ceiling, will be opened by the maid. Once your suitcases arrive, unpack and store them under the bed.
The ship leaves port at 4pm so be sure to head up to the upper deck to properly enjoy the departure.
The first day at sea will be full of exploring the nooks and crannies of the cruise ship. One of the advantages of cruises is the quality and wide choice of dining options. The cruise includes full board in restaurants marked as complimentary, while paid restaurants are marked with a $ symbol. A schedule of all restaurants and a map of each deck can be found directly in the app.
1) Dining
Breakfast - buffet, a la carte in the main restaurant or premium restaurants ($)
Lunch - buffet, bistro (pizza, sandwiches, burgers, tacos) or at premium restaurants, e.g. sushi ($)
Dinner - buffet, a la carte in the main restaurant or at premium restaurants, e.g. steak house ($)
Drinks - cold drinks - water, lemonade or iced tea and hot drinks - coffee and tea are included. Carbonated soft drinks or alcoholic beverages can be purchased separately ($) or as a drink package ($).
Desserts - included with lunches and dinners, with ice cream on tap at any time of the day. Premium ice cream for a fee ($)
The main a la carte restaurant also hosts "attire nights", when only formal attire is allowed.
A tip of around 18% will always be added to your additional meals.
2) Sports - slides, SkyRide, rope park, running track, fitness centre, basketball court, mini golf, table tennis
3) Culture - stand-up comedy, dance lessons
4) Music and live performances - musicals, piano man
5) Relaxation - pools, hot tubs, spa, massage ($), beauty treatments ($)
6) Shopping - jewelry, alcohol, fashion, souvenirs and more ($)
7) Kids - water playground, arcade ($), play area, NASA corner
8) Evening entertainment - karaoke, casino ($), bingo ($), IMAX ($)
9) Internet - only as part of a paid package for the entire stay ($). However, you can often catch free wifi at the ports or buy a drink at the bar and they will gladly give you the wifi password.
10) Other activities - contests, tournaments, library, etc.
There are not many cruise ship ports that have a beautiful beach right next to the pier. One of them, however, is the Jamaican port of Ocho Rios, located in the north of the island.
Arrival 9:00
Departure: 17:00
If you like adventure, we recommend purchasing one of the trips directly from the cruise company. The most notable attraction in the area is a trip to Dunn's River Falls, where you'll climb a stone staircase to the top of the waterfall. If you don't fancy climbing the waterfall, you can choose from a wide range of other excursions around the area or you can just relax on the beautiful Ocho Rios Bay Beach next to the marina.
During this trip, you'll climb a natural stone staircase up the river to the world-famous Dunn's River Falls, where water flows from nearly 90 metres. As you climb, you'll be able to refresh yourself in the small lagoons. You can then observe the surroundings from the viewing platform adjacent to the falls.
Caution: the hike may be challenging for people with limited mobility. The trip is also accessible for children 6 years and older. Water shoes are required.
Swimwear and a beach towel in your backpack are also recommended, including a resealable bag for your cell phone and documents.
Once you've climbed the falls, your next stop will be Reggae Hill. Reggae Hill offers seating in an area full of colorful tropical plants and flowers. Here you can cool off in the crystal clear spring water, purchase a delicious Jamaican lunch from a menu that includes chicken, grilled fish, lobster and other local specialties, or just listen to the reggae beat as local dancers perform.
In total, you'll spend 4.5 hours on the trip. Directions can be found on the app, and tickets for the trip will be delivered to your cabin.
If you're not interested in climbing the river, you can spend a day on the beautiful beach at Ocho Rios Bay, known as Turtle Beach, which offers fine white sand with turquoise blue water. The beach is located between the Moon Palace Jamaica resort and the marina and is about a 5-minute walk from the boat terminal. There is an entrance fee - $3 per adult, $1 per child. Shade can be found right under the palm trees or trees, so a beach towel will suffice.
The second stop on your cruise will be the Cayman Islands, specifically Grand Cayman.
The main adventure on Grand Cayman is undoubtedly snorkeling with stingrays in Stingray City. If encountering stingrays doesn't tempt you, we recommend heading to Seven Mile Beach for a quiet day by the sea.
Arrival: 8:00
Departures: 16:00
The Cayman Islands, which we know primarily in association with the tax haven, is an amalgamation of 3 main islands - Grand Cayman, Little Cayman and Cayman Brac. It is an independent state but a dependent territory of the United Kingdom, known as the Commonwealth. The cruise ship stops in the capital itself - George Town. The name Cayman originated from Francis Drake's mistaken assumption that Caymanians lived on the island. However, the truth is that the island was, and still is, heavily populated by iguanas. The island is very flat - the highest point on the island is only 18 metres above sea level.
A major tourist attraction on Grand Cayman is the encounter with stingrays. During this encounter, you will learn about their lives, see them feeding, and be able to touch these prehistoric animals.
You can either take this trip on your own through the port's tour provider or you can purchase the trip directly through the cruise company.
If you're not keen on encountering stingrays, you won't go wrong by taking a taxi to the famous Seven mile Beach, one of the most beautiful beaches on the island.
After an encounter with stingrays or a day at the beach, the capital George Town itself is worth a look, with its colonial-style pictorial houses. A short walk from the harbour is the beautiful Elmslie Memorial United Church, which is not only stunningly photogenic from the outside but also from the inside. Caribbean rum is also famous, and is made right here on the island.
Your last stop during the cruise will be the Mexican island of Cozumel. Cozumel is geographically located just across the street from the famous Playa del Carmen.
Arrival: 10:30
Departures: 18:30
The main landmark of this island is the crystal clear sea and nice beaches. One drawback may be that the most beautiful sandy beaches are to be found at the beach clubs - small resorts that abound with everything from beach chairs, pools and water rides to bars and restaurants. However, there is a charge to enter these beach clubs. Most beach clubs offer either a fee to enter the resort or an all-inclusive program, where you get unlimited food and drink included in the price of admission.
The most famous beach club on the island is Paradise Beach (see below), where admission alone costs $15, but on exposed days like spring break, they'll probably only let you in if you buy the All Inclusive package ($68 per adult, $41 per child under 11). A taxi ride from the port takes about 10 minutes and will set you back $18 for a full taxi ride one way.
Another option for a day at the beach is Playa Palancar, where admission is $20 per person. The price will include an umbrella, sun loungers and bathroom facilities. The taxi ride from the port will then take 15 minutes and will cost you $25 for a taxi one way.
The most affordable beach is one of the few sandy beaches on the island that is free, Playa San Francisco. This is located next to another famous beach club, Playa Mia. You won't have any sunbeds, bars or bathroom facilities here, but the sea and sand are stunning. The taxi ride will cost you the same as going to Paradise beach.
As we write above, Paradise Beach is one of the most luxurious beach clubs in Cozumel. As part of your admission, you get sunbeds, an umbrella, a pool, bathrooms, hammocks and wifi. In the case of the All Inclusive package, extra food and drinks throughout the day. There is also a water park with inflatable attractions in the shallows. However, entry is subject to the purchase of a $14 Fun Pass.
On your last day on the ship, make the most of it and try out the full range of activities the ship has to offer. Follow the daily schedule in the app to see what's happening on the ship.
If you haven't paid your gratuity in advance, have it cancelled from your account at customer service, with the understanding that you will pay in cash and ask for envelopes.
Next, confirm on the app if you would like to use a porter to take your luggage when you disembark or if you would like to take your luggage yourself. If you would like to use the porter service, please enter your preferred disembarkation time in the app, and the valet will then leave luggage tags in your room with your disembarkation group number and the belt number where your luggage will be located in the terminal lobby.
In the afternoon, you will need to pack and prepare your suitcases to leave the ship. If you have chosen the porter service, please leave your packed suitcases in the corridor outside your cabin after 9pm.
Leave a gratuity in the amount of your choice in your stateroom upon check-out the morning before you leave the ship.
Arrival: 8:00
Once your sim card data has been activated, check in online for your return flight.Enjoy your breakfast in peace, taking your hand luggage with you. You will not be returning to your cabin. The disembarkation process will take some time, so take a seat near your assembly point for disembarkation. All information can be found in the app.
After disembarkation you will go through security and document control. You will then collect your checked baggage in the terminal lobby. The number or letter of the belt can be found in the app or on the baggage tag.
Flights back to Europe generally depart later in the afternoon, so you have a full day in Miami ahead of you. Book a taxi and go shopping at the Dolphin mall outlet mall.
Visit Dolphin mall, a renowned outlet mall with over 240 shops and restaurants near the airport. You'll find storage bins next to the toilets next to the Food Court, or store your suitcases with one of the Bounce service providers. You can put the kids in a trolley with a built-in tablet.
Plan to arrive at the airport at least 2.5 hours before departure, as there are often long queues at security. Have a safe journey!
