Sailing in Style: My Caribbean Getaway aboard the NCL Jewel
Our adventure began with a touch of class. Flying into Florida a day early, we checked in to the elegant Westin Tampa Bay — a waterfront sanctuary that gave us a taste of coastal luxury before even boarding the ship. With stunning bay views, plush bedding, and an exceptional seafood dinner overlooking the water, it was the perfect way to shake off travel fatigue and ease into holiday mode.
On February 18th, we embarked from Tampa, a city brimming with charm and culture. Before sailing away, we had time to explore the cobblestone streets and historic vibes of Ybor City, grab a café con leche at a Cuban café, and soak up some art at the Tampa Museum of Art. But the real excitement began as we stepped onto the Jewel — a floating paradise with endless dining options, Broadway-style shows, sparkling pools, and ocean views at every turn.
The next two days were all about pure relaxation. We explored the ship, sipped cocktails by the pool, sampled world cuisines at specialty restaurants, and enjoyed live music under the stars. There’s nothing quite like waking up with the sea outside your window and no obligations — just bliss.
Our first stop on February 21st was the stunning Puerto Plata. We took a cable car up Pico Isabel de Torres for jaw-dropping views, wandered through the Amber Museum, and marveled at the 16th-century Fortaleza San Felipe. This city is a blend of natural beauty and fascinating history — a gem in the Caribbean crown.
Next up was St. Thomas on February 22nd, where we explored Charlotte Amalie, a harbor once haunted by pirates and now home to vibrant markets and irresistible shopping. We also managed a quick dip at Magens Bay, one of the Caribbean’s most beautiful beaches. Crystal-clear water and palm-fringed sands — the postcard-perfect island experience.
On February 24th, we landed in Oranjestad, Aruba. Picture this: white sands, sherbet-colored buildings, vibrant flowers, and warm breezes. We strolled the quaint Dutch colonial streets, browsed local boutiques, and soaked in Caribbean sunshine. Then came Curaçao on February 25th, where we wandered through the pastel-hued charm of Willemstad — a true slice of old Amsterdam in the tropics. Shopping, sipping cocktails on colonial verandas, and tasting the iconic blue Curaçao liqueur rounded out a picture-perfect day.
Falmouth, Jamaica greeted us on February 27th with reggae rhythms and vibrant local life. From the colonial architecture of Good Hope Estate to climbing the legendary Dunn’s River Falls, the day was packed with excitement. We rafted down the Martha Brae River, visited Montego Bay, and savored spicy jerk chicken and sweet rum punch. Jamaica’s energy is infectious and unforgettable.
Our final port was George Town, Grand Cayman, on February 28th. We basked on the famed Seven Mile Beach, snorkeled with friendly rays at Stingray City, and explored fascinating shipwrecks beneath the waves. It was the perfect exclamation point to our island-hopping adventure.
After one last dreamy day at sea to recharge, we arrived back in Tampa on March 2nd, hearts full, cameras full, and already dreaming of the next voyage.
If you’re craving culture, sunshine, relaxation, and a taste of the exotic — all wrapped in the comfort of a luxury cruise — the NCL Jewel Caribbean itinerary is an unbeatable choice. With top-tier service, stunning destinations, and plenty of time to unwind at sea, it’s a holiday that truly has it all.
