Although a weekend cruise is great opportunity to try out the experience of cruising for those who have never cruised before, it can also be an adventure, a romantic interlude, a celebration or a much needed retreat from the stresses of life.
Whatever your motivation, for maximum return on your vacation dollar it is essential to jump right in and take advantage of the ship's activities as soon as you board. Vacations are more rejuvenating when you are a participant, and even a weekend cruise can refresh the spirit as thoroughly as a longer voyage if you abandon yourself to the experience. .
Carnival Inspiration
Carnival Cruise Lines offers both 4 and 5 night western Caribbean sailings from Tampa aboard the Carnival Inspiration. The ship's tonnage is 70,367, with 10 decks and a passenger capacity of 2,052.
The onboard amenities include a 9-hole mini golf course, a tropical resort-style pool, a Serenity Adult only retreat, dining and shipboard entertainment. Also onboard is Carnival Water-Works for the children.
Carnival Cruise Lines
3655 NW Eighth Ave.
Miami, Florida 33178
888-CARNIVAL
carnival.com
Radiance of the Seas
Royal Caribbean International offers both four- and five-day sailings to Mexico from Tampa aboard the Radiance of the Seas. The ship's tonnage is 90,090 with 10 decks, including a 10-story glass-constructed Centrum and glass elevators facing the sea. Passenger capacity is 2,501.
Amenities aboard the Radiance of the Seas include a rock-climbing wall; themed bars and lounges; a casino; The Colony Club, a British colonial-style lounge with self-leveling pool tables; an African safari-themed Solarium; an indoor/outdoor country club with golf simulator; a day spa; a fitness center; a sports court with basketball/volleyball court; and Adventure Ocean youth facilities.
Royal Caribbean International
1050 Caribbean Way
Miami, Florida 33132
866-562-7625
royalcaribbean.com
Costa Maya
Costa Maya is located in the Mexican Caribbean and is best known for its Mayan ruins, jungles, and beaches.
For the traveler with an inquisitive mind, the Chacchoben Mayan Ruins, opened to the public in 1999, is a real treat. Thought to be the first human settlement in the area, the ruins have been dated as early as 1000 BC.
To experience Costa Maya in the most efficient fashion, visit the Mayan Pavilion Park. There you will find Mayan handicraft centers, swim-up bars, traditional restaurants, saltwater pools, an amphitheater, Mayan art and architecture, water sports and shopping.
Sun worshippers will delight in Uvero Beach, which is well known for it's famous Mayan sun. The beach is equipped with beach chairs, bar, restaurant, paddle boats and snorkling.
Cozumel, Mexico
Cozumel, the largest island of Mexico, is the dream place for diving enthusiasts. Cozumel has 25 coral reefs, where diving is available based on a knowledge profile: advanced, intermediate and beginner divers. Experienced divers will find the Palancar coral reef, where the depth varies between 6 and 37 meters in its deepest points, well worth the time. For marine diversity, the coral reef in Punta Sur is a popular choice.
Cozumel is also noted for fishing, horseback riding on the beach, golf and sailing,
