I just want to say up front. I’m allergic to boats. Every time I get on a boat I find myself feeding the fishes. My catch cry has been, “the perfect cure for sea sickness – get off the damn boat!”  So when Deb suggested a 3 day sampler cruise out of Sydney I have to admit that I was a bit reluctant.  This was a cruise that just did a 3 day loop out of Sydney that really went no where.  A 3 day cruise how bad could it be.??

We were very lucky in that we had fantastic weather, with only about 1 metre swell.  So it was an ideal introduction to these big ships.

I had a couple of preconceptions about cruises, a lot of people, a lot of food, a lot of oldies, and a lot of drinking.  And I have to report that most of those are correct.  What surprised me was just how relaxing it was to sit, and watch the ocean.  While there were a lot (A LOT) of people you could find a quiet corner and just sit and watch the ocean slip by, or read a good book with your favourite drink in hand.

Or go for a swim, soak in the spa, climb the climbing wall, ride the wave rider, go ice skating, sing karaoke, watch a movie, play arcade games, go to the gym, … … and the list just goes on and on.

Explorer of the sea

Explorer of the sea – pool deck

Or if that’s not your cup of tea you could just go for a wander along the promenade and browse the shops, or stop for a drink in one of the many bars.  These ships are truly amazing!  I found myself wandering along and forgetting that I was even on a ship … well until the floor moved and that was a pretty quick reminder.

Promenade deck on the Explorer of the Seas – the ceiling there is effectively the top of level 8.  There are 5 levels above that.

Then there was the night-time entertainment, shows, musicals, pool parties that really rocked, and various other entertainment at a number of the bars like classical guitar, piano, or bands.  On the last night we were treated to the Brisbane based Queen tribute band – Killer Queen who were excellent.

Food.  The food.  If you go hungry on one of these trips you only have yourself to blame.  The choice was out of control!   Anything from a quick snack or burgers, to food halls and fine dining.  There is something to tempt everyone!  And lots of it.

And when the evening is over you can stroll along the deck and enjoy the moonlight and evening ocean breeze.

Sunset

So while I’m not going to be running off to join the Navy, I can say that I did enjoy my time at sea and can see another cruise on the horizon.