Tuesday, August 19, 2025

On the Island Princess

After a quiet morning, our Lyft driver came at 10:00 and took us to the ship.  It was our first ride in a Tesla. We were surprised that the roof was glass, so we could look up at all the tall buildings.  I took a picture as we went past the World Trade Center but it did not turn out very well due to the hazed glass  He then took us across the Brooklyn Bridge, which was also a first for us.  

We got to the ship by 11:00 and, since we had all our documents on file and our medallions, we got to use the shorter lines for xray scanning and security. After that, we walked right on the ship.  Our cabin was not ready yet, but we were able to stash our carry-ons in it and headed to the buffet for lunch. Love that bread and butter pudding with vanilla sauce!

We have great views of the Statue of Liberty and Manhattan from our balcony.  We also have Reserved Collection dining which is a special dining room area, and were very surprised to see the same hostess, Arita, that we had last year.  She recognized us even before seeing our names on her iPad.  Another benefit of Reserved Class Dining is a glass of champagne on sail-away day!  Note the Manhattan skyline in the background.

SURPRISE!  Due to the hurricane, the captain just announced a major schedule change.  No Caribbean ports, but staying in Manhattan for 3 days and doing an extra day in Bermuda.   While in New York, we get a free ferry or shuttle to Manhattan during the day.  So we can remain on the ship or do a couple of days of NYC sightseeing.  

On a positive note, we get 50% of our cruise fare refunded as a future cruise credit and still get to visit Bermuda, which is why we booked this cruise in the first place.   So, in the end, all is well!  

We enjoyed dinner tonight, (salmon for Mary, and pot roast for me) with very good desserts.  Mary's was had mascarpone pie with blueberry sauce while I went for the hazelnut souffle. 

We are debating NYC activities for the next 2 days, but we may stay on the ship tomorrow as rain is predicted from 11am on for the rest of the day. Hopefully Thursday works out better. 

5 comments:

Anonymous said...

Well, I would say that is a Win-Win, and best to stay safe with that hurricane swirling around out there. You're in a plush hotel with free food and entertainment while enjoying NYC! Your meals look and sound good, I need to talk to you about that Reserve collection dining, we've never done it. We actually had our first Tesla ride in Reykajav in July. No glass roof, but the dashboard screen was really interesting. Enjoy!!

Claudia

Anonymous said...

I'm glad to hear they are not taking you into the hurricane and that you still will get to Bermuda. Always something to do in NYC!
Enjoy! Gail

Anonymous said...

Nice views! I’m sure you’ll make the best of your days in Manhattan!
Kathy

Anonymous said...

Sorry to hear about the hurricane changing your cruise plans but so glad you will go to Bermuda like you wanted also 50% off the cruise , wow , Enjoy ... the meals look and sounded nice . Pat

Nancy Howard said...

Good to hear you have such a good deal for the 50% off in the future. Very glad to hear you are still going to Bermuda.