“Live From” the Grandeur or Z and TB Live the High Life in the Caribbean!

[GMIAC]

David was our CD back in December; I presume he's gone now? How often do the CRs alternate?

[Zqueeze1]

23 minutes ago, 1teach53 said:

Sorry we just missed Lorraine’s return! She is our favorite! ( we were on in February) We have been very lucky to share dinners with her !💕 What a lovely lady! Please say high to her for us!  
Regarding P7, we have thought for the last couple years it was the weakest of the 3 specialty restaurants. In February we had issues with the filet. 
You two crazy kids have a blast!👍 wish we were there! 
😸💕😻💗💓
 

Thanks and we will pass your greetings to Lorraine.  We miss you guys. 
 

Z and TB

[Stefken]

Can you ask Lorraine if she will be on board for Mediterranean cruises in May. Saw her on the TV series on the the Splendor and she was great on that, would be nice to see her in person.

 

thanks Lynda 🛳🛳🛳🛳🛳

[Zqueeze1]

29 minutes ago, Stefken said:

Can you ask Lorraine if she will be on board for Mediterranean cruises in May. Saw her on the TV series on the the Splendor and she was great on that, would be nice to see her in person.

 

thanks Lynda 🛳🛳🛳🛳🛳

I usually see her on the mornings and will be more than glad to ask her. 
 

Z and TB

[AshD]

On 3/26/2024 at 1:56 PM, silkismom said:

Waiting to see how the shore excursions for Bonaire & Aruba are, we do the same ones in Dec on the Navigator.

Hi! Z has the food well covered, so I thought I’d pop in with some reports about our excursions so far 🙂

 

Aruba: De Palm Island Snorkeling, 4.5 hrs, 2 walking men, all food and beverages included.

 

Quick bus to the ferry, then a little wait for the island tender. This is a site open to any ticket holders. It has cabanas for hire, but we didn’t see the point and just used one of the many lounge chairs. Not so much “beach” area, but many areas to enjoy the warm, clear water. After a refreshing adult beverage, we took our gear down to the place for dedicating snorkeling. You can use their equipment if need be, and it did not look shabby. Must wear their safety vest and no fins allowed to protect the coral heads and other snorkelers. The amount and variety of fish was fantastic and kept us entertained for about 45 minutes. Dried off and went to the Caribbean buffet lunch. There is also a grill with big burgers, fries, and such if local food isn’t your thing. Delicious and hearty fish and chicken dishes with a lovely lentil soup, steamed veg, Caribbean rice, fruits, modest salad bar, and desserts. The fountain beverages are Coke products. Some familiar and some native to this area. It made me recall the wall of beverages from all locations at the World of Coke in Atlanta.

We walked the island to work off lunch and saw flamingos and turtles. There is a volleyball area, a few tall water slides, a children’s water park, and a gift shop. Nice enough place. The amount of time there was enough for us.

 

Bonaire: Kayak and Snorkel, 2.5 hours, 3 walking men.

 

Originally, the kayaks were clear bottom, but that changed. No biggie. They were all 2 seaters. We walked a short distance and launched near the Princess ship docked in front of Grandeur. About a mile kayaking to a little beach inlet, and yes, the 3 walking man was correct. Certainly strenuous. Great snorkeling again! So clear and warm. We were right on the edge of a seriously deep drop-off that had us itching to dive, but there was plenty to see up top. After about 45 minutes, the group kayaked back. Great group of folks! Would definitely do this again.

 

Grenada: Mt. Gazo Hike and Swim, 3.5 hours, 3 walking men.

Before beginning our hike, one of the excellent guides gave a hands-on lesson about many of the spices on the island. He had brought a few things from his backyard which he “processed” as we gathered around the van. Nutmeg, cinnamon, bay leaves, cloves, a cacao pod, and a cocoa seed he’d previously dried and roasted. Really fascinating to watch and listen. Nothing can compare to the smells as he grated or crushed items for us to taste and smell. Unexpected and welcome extra on this excursion!

 

Let me say, we are nature enthusiasts and have participated in many a hiking excursion before. This one should have been more like 5 walking men because we literally followed an incredibly steep (in many places) rustic path to the summit about 850 ft up, I believe. Not much of a leisurely stroll through the dry forest (as opposed to rain forest) as we were all occupied watching where we were putting our feet. Finally making it to the top lookout point made the effort SO worth it (but damn! I am Really out of shape lol). Gorgeous vistas in all directions! The walk back down was steep also, but there were handrails on that path. We ended up at a beautiful cabin/bar and enjoyed a complimentary drink - adult and not. Then a short drive down to Grand Anse beach. An hour there was slightly too long, but we did enjoy watching the families and locals gathered to celebrate the Easter weekend. We witnessed the start of a lovely sunset, and we’re back on board by 6:20pm.

 

Which brings us to today!

St. Lucia: The Tree Top Adventure, 4.25 hours, 3 walking men.

 

We love zip lines. Have done them all over the world. This one ranks in the top 3! It was a beautiful area. The lines varied in height, length, and speed, but you can still look around and enjoy the views. We walked to each platform along concrete and wooden paths and stairs. A the forest was lush, green, and wonderfully cool in the shade. Occasionally, we accessed the next platform via a plank bridge encased in a rope next to which we anchored our harness. Definitely cool. As with any excursion, the guide can make or break the experience. The crew today came to work just for our group (it’s Easter) and were absolutely delightful! They kept us safe and kept us laughing and having fun throughout all 12 lines. It was a wonderful day.

 

Participated in the ship’s Easter egg hunt! 15 minutes to find 150 plastic eggs full of candy on deck 4 only. There was a good turnout and it was great fun to watch adults get so serious about finding these eggs! Seriously, I got hip checked in the casino and lost that egg! You would’ve thought ice cream was involved given the determination of many participants! 🤣 Three golden eggs were also found with Regent points, the Easter bunny made a welcome appearance, and a good time was had by all!

 

Hope I didn’t bore you too much! Cheers, everyone! 🐰 Ash

 

 

[Bossa Nova]

11 hours ago, Zqueeze1 said:

YIKES!!! https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Freewinds

[Amber14]

13 hours ago, AshD said:

 

 

Grenada: Mt. Gazo Hike and Swim, 3.5 hours, 3 walking men.

Before beginning our hike, one of the excellent guides gave a hands-on lesson about many of the spices on the island. He had brought a few things from his backyard which he “processed” as we gathered around the van. Nutmeg, cinnamon, bay leaves, cloves, a cacao pod, and a cocoa seed he’d previously dried and roasted. Really fascinating to watch and listen. Nothing can compare to the smells as he grated or crushed items for us to taste and smell. Unexpected and welcome extra on this excursion!

 

Let me say, we are nature enthusiasts and have participated in many a hiking excursion before. This one should have been more like 5 walking men because we literally followed an incredibly steep (in many places) rustic path to the summit about 850 ft up, I believe. Not much of a leisurely stroll through the dry forest (as opposed to rain forest) as we were all occupied watching where we were putting our feet. Finally making it to the top lookout point made the effort SO worth it (but damn! I am Really out of shape lol). Gorgeous vistas in all directions! The walk back down was steep also, but there were handrails on that path. We ended up at a beautiful cabin/bar and enjoyed a complimentary drink - adult and not. Then a short drive down to Grand Anse beach. An hour there was slightly too long, but we did enjoy watching the families and locals gathered to celebrate the Easter weekend. We witnessed the start of a lovely sunset, and we’re back on board by 6:20pm.

 

 

Thanks so much for these excursion reviews. You don't see too many posted here. We are thinking about booking the Mt. Gazo hike. It sounds fun. Do you know either by distance or time how long the hike was? About how many people were on it? Also, at the beach, did you have lounge chairs or was there a bar to hang out at or did you just towel sit? Would you do this excursion again?

 

And I agree with you about the ziplining in St. Lucia. It was definitely in our top 3 zipline excursions too!

 

Thanks!

[AshD]

1 hour ago, Amber14 said:

Thanks so much for these excursion reviews. You don't see too many posted here. We are thinking about booking the Mt. Gazo hike. It sounds fun. Do you know either by distance or time how long the hike was? About how many people were on it? Also, at the beach, did you have lounge chairs or was there a bar to hang out at or did you just towel sit? Would you do this excursion again?

 

And I agree with you about the ziplining in St. Lucia. It was definitely in our top 3 zipline excursions too!

 

Thanks!

You are quite welcome! I usually research the excursions as best asI can using YouTube, but thought it would be nice to share our experiences here for people who don’t have time for that.

 

I believe there were 18-20 people on the hike. We arrived in comfortable passenger vans and the drivers assisted the on-site guide during the climb. It was only about .77 miles, according to the trail map, but the incline made it challenging. I have no estimate on the time up or down, but up felt like forever lol. We would do this again because a new, higher viewing platform that will offer 360 degree views of the island is being constructed to replaced the old one which was damaged during a storm.

 

Regarding the beach, we sat out on our towels from the ship, but could have rented one of the many stacked beach loungers from an attendant for $5 usd each. Beverages could also be purchased from these guys from the local bar. Not much to see in the water. It was deep enough to play and bounce in the waves though.

[tnr]

19 hours ago, Stefken said:

Can you ask Lorraine if she will be on board for Mediterranean cruises in May. Saw her on the TV series on the the Splendor and she was great on that, would be nice to see her in person.

 

thanks Lynda 🛳🛳🛳🛳🛳

Lorraine will be leaving in May, but I fail to remember if it is the end of May, or earlier.  (As I hadn’t yet had my full supply of coffee this morning.). Z will be able to tell you.  She will be going to the Explorer after her vacation.  David Niven will be coming back to the Grandeur.

[jeb_bud]

22 minutes ago, tnr said:

Lorraine will be leaving in May, but I fail to remember if it is the end of May, or earlier.  (As I hadn’t yet had my full supply of coffee this morning.). Z will be able to tell you.  She will be going to the Explorer after her vacation.  David Niven will be coming back to the Grandeur.

Did she say where she’s going?

[Zqueeze1]

Lorraine heads out near the end of May and will be in SC.  When she gets back onboard, she will be on the Explorer doing Alaska and Japan. 
 

Z and TB

[jeb_bud]

We’re boarding Explorer June 12. Lorraine was the CD on our first three cruises. I’m guessing June 12 is too early but I can always hope. 

[Zqueeze1]

Good morning!   Let me start by thanking Ash for his great report on their excursions. Well done!

We continue to ie our saga of waiting on excursions. We are waiting listed for a champagne and pineapple excursion here in Antigua. Option B is our usual walk about. 

Yesterday was another beautiful day full of fun and people watching. So far we have a pirate, a rainbow with a purse, a grumpy guy, and the interrogator. We start off each day swearing off food and booze, then head to the buffet.  My waistline is more like the equator now. 

We went to a lovely Easter service in the afternoon.  Having been absolved for my sins, I headed to the pool bar afterwards as TB hit the walking deck.  

We decided to eat at Compass Rose last night, but were told there would be a half hour wait. So, we headed to Sette Mari which had a shorter wait.  Sette Mari has changed. By that I mean that there used do be a huge amount of food for the Italian buffet prior to the main course.  I thought it was a bit skimpy, but, for once, I was not full prior to my entree. So, all good.  

We had:

Antipasto was pesto gnocchi

 

Filet

 

 

 Veal Marsala

 

No pic because internet sucks today. Today is Antigua

Z and TB

[CruiserFromMaine]

We had a great lunch in Prime 7 today. I had the shrimp and grits, the fried chicken, and the lemon meringue dessert. It was delicious and paired with a nice rosé we didn’t know about but heard another couple order next to us. No photos, I’m afraid. Nice breakfast in CR today too. 
 

We went to the interdenominational church service yesterday afternoon for Easter, in the theater. Photo below. That was a nice touch added by Regent. 
 

Enjoying life on Regent! 

[1teach53]

1 hour ago, Zqueeze1 said:

Lorraine heads out near the end of May and will be in SC.  When she gets back onboard, she will be on the Explorer doing Alaska and Japan. 
 

Z and TB

Yes!!! 👏👏👏👏  We will be on Explorer (Alaska) in September escaping the hell that is a Texas summer heat! ! Certainly looking forward to seeing Lorraine! 
Thanks for your update. 😻💓😸💕🚢

[Amber14]

21 hours ago, AshD said:

You are quite welcome! I usually research the excursions as best asI can using YouTube, but thought it would be nice to share our experiences here for people who don’t have time for that.

 

I believe there were 18-20 people on the hike. We arrived in comfortable passenger vans and the drivers assisted the on-site guide during the climb. It was only about .77 miles, according to the trail map, but the incline made it challenging. I have no estimate on the time up or down, but up felt like forever lol. We would do this again because a new, higher viewing platform that will offer 360 degree views of the island is being constructed to replaced the old one which was damaged during a storm.

 

Regarding the beach, we sat out on our towels from the ship, but could have rented one of the many stacked beach loungers from an attendant for $5 usd each. Beverages could also be purchased from these guys from the local bar. Not much to see in the water. It was deep enough to play and bounce in the waves though.

Thanks again for writing such details. It really makes it easier to decide. I have been on hikes where .7 can seem like 5 miles!!! Anyway we are waitlisted for the Discover Grenada tour (hopefully it's not a lot of bus riding) but think we are going to book the Mt. Gazo one as backup. It's too bad Regent doesn't have a place for reviews on their excursion lists like other cruiselines. It would make it a lot easier. Keep enjoying your cruise!

[Zqueeze1]

Good Morning! Serious events are afoot! More on that later.  

We spent most of the day onboard with the exception of a quick walk in town here in Antigua.

 

There were three other megaships creating a mass of humanity like walking around Disney World

 

While The Boss worked out and worked on her tan, I spent time at the Pool Bar talking with folks. However, I drank mostly water since I was feeling a little bit off kilter.  I may have had a touch of the dreaded cocktail flu.  What amazes me is the variety of folks I’ve met while sitting in my favorite stool. I’ve recently met a gentleman who is unfortunately suffering from agent orange exposure, a great English couple who live in France, a creepy lady out of Bates Hotel, and the infamous booby flasher (not kidding). 

Dinner was at Compass Rose with just TB and me.  We were not able to enjoy the excellent meal as well as we should have because the folks sitting at the next table were extremely loud.  We had:

 

Snow crab spring roll (wow)

 

Caesar salad with beautiful paper thin Parmesan cheese. 

 

Pam had the filet and lobster tail

 

I had the Creole black grouper (amazing)

 

Some friends of ours got invited  to have dinner at the mysterious Study.  The had no idea who invited them or why.  They were part of a group of eight who were invited by a generous couple from a top tier cabin.  One can order from any of the specialty restaurants. In addition, the chef offered  a seafood entree as well as Kobe wagyu beef.  There were also served Camyus wine with dinner. They said that they enjoyed the experience. 

We anchored off St Barth early this morning. However, around 0715, the Captain announced that we were cancelling this port due to swells that made tendering dangerous.  So, we are having a sea day and the crew will publish a modified Passages offering activities. 

 

Tomorrow:  San Juan and visiting college classmates. 

 

Z and TB

Edited April 2 by Zqueeze1

[GMIAC]

47 minutes ago, Zqueeze1 said:

 

What amazes me is the variety of folks I’ve met while sitting in my favorite stool. I’ve recently met a gentleman who is unfortunately suffering from agent orange exposure, a great English couple who live in France, a creepy lady out of Bates Hotel, and the infamous booby flasher (not kidding). 

 

 

Does TB know that while she's working out you're throwing back beverages with a "booby flasher?"

 

Bummer about St. Barths. One of our favorite places; something like 80 restaurants, mostly French, on an 11 x 3 mile-long island. 

[Zqueeze1]

2 minutes ago, GMIAC said:

 

Does TB know that while she's working out you're throwing back beverages with a "booby flasher?"

 

Bummer about St. Barths. One of our favorite places; something like 80 restaurants, mostly French, on an 11 x 3 mile-long island. 

I had nightmares last night over the booby flasher. No man should have seen what I saw.  I may have to up my meds.  
 

Z and TB

[GMIAC]

2 minutes ago, Zqueeze1 said:

I had nightmares last night over the booby flasher. No man should have seen what I saw.  I may have to up my meds.  
 

Z and TB

One saggy boob said to the other saggy boob, "We'd better get some support or people are going to think we're nuts!"

[CruiserFromMaine]

Great show on the Grandeur last night—Ignite the Night. 
 

There have been some grumbling about the production shows featuring too much Broadway or 1940-1960s music. This one was much more contemporary with great dancing and music from Styx and Bon Jovi to Bruno Mars and Walk the Moon and also featuring the incredible Regent Orchestra. Really well done! 

[CruiserFromMaine]

39 minutes ago, GMIAC said:

Bummer about St. Barths

Yes. We’re 0 for 2 on getting there. Third time’s a charm? 
 

1 hour ago, Zqueeze1 said:

Some friends of ours got invited  to have dinner at the mysterious Study.

That sounds like a wonderful turn of events! 

[hockeyken]

Z : Please do not be so hard on yourself, mi amigo. Your earlier post about eating and waistlines concerned me. You are in shape....after all, round is a shape.  🦣

 

K

[Zqueeze1]

1 hour ago, hockeyken said:

Z : Please do not be so hard on yourself, mi amigo. Your earlier post about eating and waistlines concerned me. You are in shape....after all, round is a shape.  🦣

 

K

Ken:  thank you.  I feel so much better k owing that I have your support and concern about my well being.  Putz. 
Love, 

 

Z and TB

[hockeyken]

De nada ! 😃