Bermuda Bound - Take 2

[Nhcris]

Some of you may remember that Frank & I took a cruise to Bermuda last summer. Due to the inopportune appearance of Rocky, the bastard kidney stone, we had to fly home from Bermuda as soon as we arrived after 2 and a half days of hell on the Celebrity Summit. Well, we are going to try again, but this time we will be departing from Boston on the little old Holland America Veendam. She is a very small ship by today's standards, carrying around 1300 passengers. One big advantage to her is that she is small enough to dock right downtown in Hamilton, as opposed to out at the Royal Naval Dockyard, so the location is much more central. We sailed her before, and let's just say that she is a very sedate old girl, and we should be the youngsters onboard HHH

Here is the itinerary:

June 9, Saturday Depart Boston at 4:00PM
June 10, Sunday At Sea
June 11, Monday Arrive Bermuda 1PM
June 12, Tuesday Bermuda
June 13, Wednesday Bermuda
June 14, Thursday Depart Bermuda 1PM
June 15, Saturday At Sea
June 16, Saturday Arrive Boston at 8AM


The bags are packed and in the car. We will be leaving the house about 9:30 to drop off the pups. They will be staying in the Presidential Suite, lucky shits! We hope to arrive at the ship by 11:30 to get settled in and enjoy the Mariner's Luncheon.

We booked an Ocean View Stateroom on the Promenade Deck, right on the Aft. Slumming this time, but we booked last minute and got a great bargain.

Sunday we will attend the Cruise Critic Meet & Greet and just relax onboard. This is a Gala Night, which has replaced the old Formal Night, so we willl dress up a bit for dinner.

Monday when we arrive in Bermuda, we plan to go straight to the Hog Penny Pub and then visit the Bermuda Underwater Exploration Institute. Then we have a Sunset Champagne Catamaran ride booked in the evening.

Tuesday we plan to go to St George and take a walk around the historic town, and then head to Clearwater Beach & Cooper Island Nature Preserve for a day of sunshine and snorkeling. We will have lunch (probably a Bermuda fish sandwich on raisin bread - NOT KETO) at Gombey's Beach Bar.

Wednesday is completely up in the air, with options being a boat rental, or another beach day. I'd like to walk up to Robin Hood Pub for some libations in the late afternoon but we'll see. We played darts and got very drunk there on our honeymoon. It was a very fun place back in the day! This is the night they do the Harbor Night Festival which is a neat little street fair.

Thursday we are booked to take the ship's transfers to Horseshoe Beach in the morning for a last bit of swimming and snorkeling. We'll be back on the ship for lunch and relaxation around noon. We have booked the Pinnacle Grill for a special dinner that night.

Friday will be a lazy day at sea. Most likely that will be the Mariner's Brunch day, but not sure. I hope to stay away from the casino as I have the Cherokee M&G coming right up!

Saturday we hope to be off the ship by 9. If things go smoothly, we will pick up the pups and be sitting in our recliners by 11 with a load of laundry in :)

I'll try to update, although I am not planning to get internet on the ship so I will be radio silent from Saturday evening until Monday noon, and again from Thursday noon until we dock. I will have phone and internet on Bermuda and will post from there.

Okay, so those are the plans. Let's what the reality is!

[zeus]

It all sounds wonderful, Chris! I think it would be nice to cruise on a ship that does not have 5k people on it. And it sounds like you have great days planned in Bermuda too. Now about the casino, every time you lose on the ship, just think about how much time that takes away from me in Cherokee because you are sitting in your room. [emoji3] Have fun, and if your camera happens to scan across a little bit of eye candy, I would not object to seeing it!

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[Gypsy]

Yay, sounds fabulous! I don’t really mind how little the ship is, mix it up once in awhile! Love that you can get a last minute deal, I hope you two have fun and visit that bar from your honeymoon! Bon Voyage!

[Reen]

Sounds like a wonderful trip ahead! Wishing you both a fabulous time! Enjoy!

[treyster]

Have a great cruise and STAY AWAY FROM THE TRIANGLE

[RiverSong]

Have a blast! Looking forward to following along!

[Jen Jen]

Happy cruising to you! Hope you guys have a fantastic time.

[MNvegasgal]

Smooth sailing, no stones of any kind..


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[clemi]

Very happy for you Nhcris, wishing you tons of fun (and no troubles) on your cruise!

[Curlyd]

Great trip plan, safe travels. I love the smaller ships. Our first cruise (and second) was on the Empress of the Seas. 10 nights 8 different islands. Loved the small ship but we did eventually move up to something a bit larger. But I don't think I would like the new monstrosities.

So envious of your snorkeling, enjoy!

[Cyndyga]

Sounds like a fun trip! I've never been to bermuda so looking forward to seeing your pictures and of course on the ship too!

[TwoArmedBandito]

Have fun!

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[Mary9915]

This sounds like a fun adventure Chris! Bon voyage!

[Laurie]

Sounds like a great time! Have a fun trip! Look forward to your pictures :)


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[Elf70]

Have a wonderful trip! It sounds like you have a great plan. Smooth sailing! Looking forward to seeing you at Cherokee. [emoji3]

[charlie50]

Happy sailing Cris ...

[michelelovesvegas]

I just became relaxed reading your itinerary. Great memories to relive and make new. Happy sailing!

[sondor]

Have a great time

[Penguin]

Have a good time and enjoy Bermuda.

[FL Mary]

What a fun trip! Enjoy your cruise.

[BorgataBabe]

Enjoy being the kids on the cruise! So exciting and I like your choices of what you are doing in Bermuda. I wish we were going on our own and we could do a few pubs too. Enjoy looking forward to your return TR.


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[Luckylinda123]

Have a great time

[chrissyDee]

Made it to the Terminal! The ugliest one we have ever been to.

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Just waiting for Frank to drop off the car and then we can proceed.


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[Stephiede11]

Hope you both have an excellent time on your cruise.

[chrissyDee]

Fastest. Embarkation ever. We were on the ship before noon and our state room was ready. Luggage came while we were having lunch in the dining room and we were all unpacked by 2 o’clock. Now we are at the dreaded life boat drill.

The room is cute actually. https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180609/2c0942ea21be487620b8a8a1a802512e.jpg

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[chrissyDee]

zeus, is there an upper age limit on your eye candy? I thought I would enjoy this assignment but it ‘s not going to be easy. It may have to go on hold until we get to Bermuda.

I did almost take a picture of the most hideous toenail that I ever saw but FRAnk wouldn’t let me do it.


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[chrissyDee]

Almost time to push off.

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Frank when he saw the toenail

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Our tugboat



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Pool

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Big Ass Chess

[Hoofy7]

Have a great trip! Look forward to hearing all about it! When you were sick with your kidney stone on that cruise did you visit the ship medical center by chance? I’m prone to them as well and just curious if they treated you at all or just told you to fly home?

[zeus]

zeus, is there an upper age limit on your eye candy? I thought I would enjoy this assignment but it ‘s not going to be easy. It may have to go on hold until we get to Bermuda.

I did almost take a picture of the most hideous toenail that I ever saw but FRAnk wouldn’t let me do it.


Sent from my iPhone using TapatalkI was thinking anything up to 39, but I guess I am shit out of luck. [emoji17]

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[Hoofy7]

I was thinking anything up to 39, but I guess I am shit out of luck. [emoji17]

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Lol I’ll do my best on my next cruise but like Chris’s ship, it may be slim pickings. I actually prefer the older clientele as I don’t feel so old! ;)

[DK528]

Have a wonderful trip Chris!


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[MNvegasgal]

Chris and Frank.. thanks for taking us along! Excited for this trip.. I have never been to Bermuda so I am excited to see the photos and hear your view point!!


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[chrissyDee]

Having a very nice relaxing time, and no mishaps so far!

I’ll definitely a quick stop photo dump and update more later.

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Stuffed eggplant. It was nasty

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Early foggy morning in the smoking area.

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Room service. It was adequate

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Audrey doing my pedicure. Too bad for the fog as the view is usually spectacular.

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Cool hand washer thingy’s.

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They make great salads at the Lido buffet.

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We went to a cooking lesson in the America’s Test Kitchen
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[chrissyDee]

Gala night
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Adorable wine steward
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Lemon meringue cheesecake. I had to try it

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Chocolate soufflé. He had to try it.

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[chrissyDee]

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180611/ba0d0d8444129faded28e12ed2a71673.jpghamilton, bermuda


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[chrissyDee]

Bermuda Underwater Exploration Museum

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RobIn Hood Pub
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[michelelovesvegas]

All looking like a great time!

[chrissyDee]

zeus. Eye candy on our sunset cruise. https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180611/1d668f590cd1546412a46907b8fc8d2d.jpg


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[zeus]

zeus. Eye candy on our sunset cruise. https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180611/1d668f590cd1546412a46907b8fc8d2d.jpg


Sent from my iPhone using TapatalkThanks, my friend! [emoji3]

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[Elf70]

OMG! Lemon meringue cheesecake! I hope it was delicious. Thanks for the update and pictures.

[chrissyDee]

Yesterday was a really fun day. Arriving in Hamilton is wonderful as you circle the entire island to reach the channel. It’s such a beautiful island!

Besides visiting the museum, we loved the 2 pubs. The Hog Penny is my favorite, by far. The bartender is full Of funny stories and the beer is top notch. https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180612/1d7c81140ff8f66b61c9944bf4b0e14a.jpgmmhttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180612/3f1abbde21bbd06e8278cd185329aaa9.jpg
Hahaha, that is a virgin Bloody Mary, so I am not sure why he looks completely sloshed!!


The catamaran cruise was very fun though it was too windy to go outside the harbor. Free flowing rum swizzles and sparkling wine along with good music added to the fun.

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Today, unfortunately it is full on rain. So our beach plans are On hold until tomorrow and so far we are just being lazy. Cross your fingers for sunshine tomorrow!


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[tee2green]

This makes me happy.https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180612/0f7f2d49b194a7f623e98f7a8ea0b2a5.jpg

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[Mary9915]

Yesterday was a really fun day. Arriving in Hamilton is wonderful as you circle the entire island to reach the channel. It’s such a beautiful island!

Besides visiting the museum, we loved the 2 pubs. The Hog Penny is my favorite, by far. The bartender is full Of funny stories and the beer is top notch. https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180612/1d7c81140ff8f66b61c9944bf4b0e14a.jpgmmhttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180612/3f1abbde21bbd06e8278cd185329aaa9.jpg


The catamaran cruise was very fun though it was too windy to go outside the harbor. Free flowing rum swizzles and sparkling wine along with good music added to the fun.

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Today, unfortunately it is full on rain. So our beach plans are On hold until tomorrow and so far we are just being lazy. Cross your fingers for sunshine tomorrow!


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Wonderful pictures! Looks like you are having a great trip!!

[Laurie]

Looks like such a great time!! Loving the pictures :)

[Hoofy7]

So far you haven’t loved the cruise line food or just what you ordered so far? I’m so jealous and wish I was in Bermuda with you guys! Lol I don’t mind a rainy day. Gives me an excuse to get Day drunk and gamble! ;)

[chrissyDee]

Casino is closed in Bermuda until 9pm so I am saving bankroll. Plus this miniscule casino sucks. Really bad so bad am hardly tempted.

Food has been fine. We never had dinner last night since we were off the ship and forgot. Breakfast for me has been 2 eggs and bacon, so not too exciting.

Yesterday, I drank carbs like it was my job! So I am going easy today. Though I will likely end up at another pub this evening, if the rain lets up a bit.


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[chrissyDee]

My toes are not where they planned on being today!

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But I am enjoying my serial killer book. I wish he would get rid of the severed head though!


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[Pat]

This makes me happy.https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180612/0f7f2d49b194a7f623e98f7a8ea0b2a5.jpg

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look at you two lovebirds.

[chrissyDee]

Very lazy day! It rained all damn day. Just finished dinner.

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Yellow tomatoes and mozzarella
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Fish chowder
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Chicken was very good
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[chrissyDee]

I sat through the entire production show just for you zeus. There was definitely some eye candy but no photography was allowed! This handsome guy sang like an angel but he was always overdressed!

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[chrissyDee]

Wishing goldengreeke Happy Birthday with a Crown Toast.

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[serenasea]

I am loving this report, even with the rain. Great pictures!

[LowAndSlow]

Great report, Chris. You both look so relaxed and happy. Love all the pics.

[CTslotters]

If the only incident in Bermuda-Take 2 is a rainy day, you're doing a ok! Love his happy you both look! Great reporting!! :)

[chrissyDee]

Today has been perfection.

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[chrissyDee]

Horseshoe Beach this morning.

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[chrissyDee]

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Last dark and stormy for awhile. Heading back to the ship.


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[Mary9915]

Oh Wow! Everything looks so lovely! You look so happy and relaxed!

[chrissyDee]

Almost back to Boston! It’s been lovely but I am ready to hug the pups [emoji190]


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[zeus]

Chris, loved all of the pics! And so happy Frank had an uneventful trip this time. You two are just too dann cute together! Now get home and get that laundry done so you can repack your suitcase for your next trip. [emoji3] Wish you were bringing Frank, but one day we will get the pleasure.

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[Penguin]

Thanks for taking us along. Looked at similar cruise out of Baltimore but not enough time spent in Bermuda.

[Elf70]

What an amazing TR. l loved your pictures. You looked so relaxed and happy. So glad everything went well. Thanks for bringing us along.

[dvandentop]

Great pics and fun report glad you guys able to get away and no delays lol.

[clemi]

Thanks for the updates, had fun following your adventures! I the pups will be happy to see you [emoji190]

[treyster]

The party doesn't have to end!https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180616/52adaa4c7f1be637c072579497a796f5.jpg

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[Pat]

Chris, loved all of the pics! And so happy Frank had an uneventful trip this time. You two are just too dann cute together! Now get home and get that laundry done so you can repack your suitcase for your next trip. [emoji3] Wish you were bringing Frank, but one day we will get the pleasure.

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I think so far, I'm the only one who has met Frank and I had to go to Hawaii to do that.

[Nhcris]

Just to wrap this up I want to mention a couple of the things we did on the last day and a half at sea besides reading HHH.

I went to a wine tasting, expecting the usual where they pour a splash of wine in everyone's glass, and then describe the color, hints of this or that, and something about the region. Well, in this wine tasting, they told us about the 12 wines they had in about a minute and a half, and then said "On your mark, get set, GO" and we were off to taste them all. You never saw a bunch of sixty and seventy year olds get off their chairs so fast and literally RUN from station to station! It was a riot, and by the end of the hour, we were all pretty well lit. It was lots of fun!

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That might we had dinner in the Pinnacle Grill, one of their specialty restaurants. Unfortunately, service was not very good, and some of the food was disappointing. I forgot to take a future of the amuse bouche, which was one of the highlights - haha. I made the mistake of ordering crab legs, and they were dry and flavorless. Luckily I also had a tiny filet mignon which was very good.

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[chrissyDee]

There was a chocolate extravaganza, and we expected tables set up with chocolate desserts on them. But, this was completely different and pretty neat I thought. They had servers in white jackets carrying trays of delectable chocolate items and served them throughout the promenade deck. It was quite elegant, actually, although we abstained since we were not the least bit hungry after dinner.

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The last day at sea, we truly just relaxed. Disembarkation was flawless, and we were home with the pups and groceries at 11:30am. It sure was a nice way to end a relaxing week!

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[Nhcris]

My overall impressions of the Veendam are that she is a tired old ship, and lacks all the bells and whistles of the newer ships. That is fine for a trip like this, where the main attraction was Bermuda, but for more days at sea, I know I would be bored. There was a serious problem with the AC, and our stateroom was always too warm for me which was not cool (haha). The older demographic on Holland America is not really our thing, but it does make for a nice quiet cruise!

The casino is pathetic. I have never spent so little time gambling on a cruise, and I didn't even care sine the few times i went in there the vibe was non-existent, and I saw no one winning, and barely saw anyone smile! It worked out well, since I am off to Cherokee in a few days!!

The food was 'fine' for the most part. Since HAL is known to have good food, especially for a mass market line, we were underwhelmed to say the least. Even though we are keto, food is still a big part of cruising for us. We did go off the rails eating a few times (alcohol and dessert for me haha), but lucky for me I escaped with less than a pound gain.

The activities were not very exciting. The cooking class we went to was decent, and the one show we attended was okay for me, but Frank thinks it sucked. Most of them didn't interest us, so we didn't bother. Drinks were good and not too expensive, and there was some okay music at some of the venues. I guess we were just old farts preferring our books.

Bermuda is heaven on earth. The people are so warm and friendly, and extremely helpful, that they make it even more special. The beaches are simply amazing and the snorkeling is excellent. (I will add some of our snorkeling pictures if Frank finishes editing them. We used our new GoPro knockoff, so were are just learning how to do things with it.) Add in the Pubs, and you simply have perfection.

So, we had a wonderful time, although I can't really recommend the Veendam. But, everyone should get to Bermuda at least once in their lifetime. It truly is a magical place!

[Hoofy7]

Great report! You do so much better than me! In my defense, I always cruise with children and it makes it hard to spend any time taking photos or updating without WiFi. If I buy a WiFi package they would have the minutes gone in a flash with their iPads loading YouTube videos. I figured out why my youngest is terrified of flying to our next cruise. I looked at his YouTube history and he was watching Airplane disasters. Bwahaha Last one he watched was about the ghost plane Helios. I’ve got my work cut out for me before November’s cruise. So glad you enjoyed yourselves! Much deserved.

[Laurie]

There was a chocolate extravaganza, and we expected tables set up with chocolate desserts on them. But, this was completely different and pretty neat I thought. They had servers in white jackets carrying trays of delectable chocolate items and served them throughout the promenade deck. It was quite elegant, actually, although we abstained since we were not the least bit hungry after dinner.

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The last day at sea, we truly just relaxed. Disembarkation was flawless, and we were home with the pups and groceries at 11:30am. It sure was a nice way to end a relaxing week!

Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

LOVE this picture of you and Frank!! WTG on only gaining a pound! Nice that you have plenty of bankroll left for your NC trip! LOL at the wine tasting sounded fun! Glad you two had such a great time in Bermuda Take 2. Thanks for the report and pictures!!

[LowAndSlow]

I loved your report, Chris. Bermuda has been on my bucket list for forever and you've made me want to bump it up in priority. :) Appreciate the honest review of Veendam. Sorry it was an overall disappointment but glad that your destination really made up for it. And if I forgot to say it before, you are looking really, really good, and I'm so impressed with only a 1-pound vacation weight gain and still all the amazing food pics and pub fun you had.